New to BMW, and my intro

[mclarenracer02]

So, I am going to be buying a Silver 2004 R1150R this week and it will be my first BMW so I am definitely looking forward to it. I live in Arizona so I know I will be able to get a lot of riding in which makes me excited. I am new to not only BMW but this whole discussion thing as well. I do have a few questions since I know that most everyone in here DOES have a BMW and has a lot more experience than I plus it will be great for others as well that are new. Recommendations for best...
1. Side Cases and Top case- bike didn't come with any
2. Engine protector/ crash bar
3. Two-up seat

I already have done a lot of research but am trying to get an opinion from those that actually own the bike. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Nebraskabeemer]

Hi,

As you can see by my number of posts, I'm a short timer here. I really like the BMW sidecases as found on my 2003 R1150R. I've owned four versions of BMW sidecases, starting with the BMW Krausers in 1978, and the newest ones I've used are really good. Each set I've owned is always better than the previous, and they all worked pretty well. Enjoy the new bike. I like mine!

don w

[Dr. Strangelove]

welcome to the board, both of you. PLease consider becoming dues paying members.

My 2 cents
What I would really like are Jesse bags, but it appears they are not made for our bikes, and they are very $$$$
I use the bmw cases, the "System Cases." I've been pleased with them.
Re the topcase, here you have a lot of options. Many use the GIVI and are happy. I use the Hepco Becker 42L Journey case

engine protection: again my 2 cents
The ones I like are the Z Teknik ones
http://www.ascycles.com/detail.aspx?ID=76208
but there are many others
I currently use the OEM plastic guards and these are commonly used by riders

two up seat? Can't help.
I am in a minority that is comfortable on the standard seat--I have the tall one, and my wife will not ride with me because she wants to be more "comfortable," and "someone needs to stay alive."

Good luck with your bike and they are pretty in all colors.

John

[TonyT47]

BMW cases for the 1150R are often for sale on ebay: do a search under motorcycles for 1150R and see what comes up. There are at least two sets for sale right now.
I use a Givi top case, an E45, because I already had it, but I'd prefer something in the Givi line that was more harmonious with the factory bags. I bought the Givi rack on ebay for about $90.00, quite reasonable compared with some others and stout enough for all my needs.
My engine protection is the plastic guards donated by BMW
HTH
Tony

[Cohiba54]

Welcome to the board and welcome to the other dark side

[gregor]

I'd look for second hand BMW cases. I regulary whack mine on the house wall. The resulting scratches would upset me if I'd gone brand new.

I'm happy with a standard dual seat even up to a 7 hours trip. A matter of getting used to it- the pain receeded of its own accord. I tried a sheepskin pad after a bit of a biking layoff but don't need it now. Passenger (SWMBO) has tolerated the rear seat for 100miles and reports the Kappa top box with the integral backrest to be very comfortable.