R11xxR Ergos?

Topics related to the ownership, maintenance, equipping, operation, and riding of the R1150R.

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threeflys
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R11xxR Ergos?

Post by threeflys »

I'm deciding between the R and RT and was wondering what the ergos differences are? I plan to use the bike I get for some touring, I'm guessing there is plenty of parts to change but I'm fairly new to BMWs. I currently ride a K100RS with barbacks and the K75C bars (more upright). I find this combo to pretty good, I'd just rather have a R bike. The reason I'm thinking an R vs an RT is because I'm guessing the R is cooler in summer, ideas?
Thanks,
Chris
DJ Downunder
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Post by DJ Downunder »

G'day Chris..and welcome....first tell us about the threeflys.

Do you have three flys?...do you have one and plan on getting another two?

Did you once swallow three flys?

It reminds the Python skit..Arthur 'two sheds' Jackson. http://www.intriguing.com/mp/_scripts/twosheds.asp

Anyway...it sounds like the RT is more what you're looking for...unless you like naked bikes..and the great feeling of riding naked.. :D

Now...about those three flys... :shock:
Jax

Post by Jax »

It depends on how much long-distance touring you're going to do vs day trips. I had a 2002, R1150RT and did not like the fact that it was extremely top-heavy. I've owned 19 BMW's since 1976 and the RT was the only one that made me uncomfortable when manuvering at slow speeds. (I am 6'1" tall) I also did not like the linked brakes and the servo-assist brakes. So, I sold the RT and bought a used, low mileage, R1150R without ABS, therefore no more linked or servo-assisted brakes.
The R does put you in a knees-up position which may not suit you but this was easily cured when I bought the high seat, added the Verholen lower footpeg kit, mototechniques bar risers and a Cee Bailey windshield. Total for all was around $525.
Now, the seating position is very close to that of the RT, the bike is much more manuverable at low speeds and I no longer have to contend with the brakes that I did not like.

I already had a Givi E52 trunk so all I needed was the mount. If I still did a lot of long distance travel, I would add a set of saddlebags but between the Givi trunk and a 20 litre tankbag, I can carry everything I need for a three day trip which is my new limit for trips and still have room behind me on the passenger seat to carry more gear if I need it.

Yes, the RT had more overall wind protection but it was very hot in the summer and a real pain to remove all the plastic for performing even the most simple of services.

IMHO, the R is a much more versatile bike and more overall fun to ride on a year-round basis.

I would highly suggest that anyone considering the RT vs an R, ride both bikes before committing the $$$$.
ljasonb
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Post by ljasonb »

I'll echo everything JAX said above. My previous two BMW's were a 1999 r11rt and an 00 k12lt. I wouldn't now trade my R1150r for either one of them. I've added a sargent seat (only b/c I got a GREAT deal), givi top case w/ 3rd brake light, and a Parabellum Scout Fairing. Got side cases with the bike. I really dig the fairing b/c I have two shields for it. A shorty for summer and a tall one for winter.
threeflys
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Post by threeflys »

Thanks all.
The screen name Threeflys, huh? Well, I started getting into internet forums around the time my daughter was born (6 yrs ago) and since my last name is Fly it made sense. Currently there are my wife, my daughter and myself, which makes Threeflys!
Chris
DJ Downunder
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Post by DJ Downunder »

Thanks....btw....the RT is a big bike...if you're not a big person you might find it a little too big...and the RR is a little smaller...and it can be turned into a very nice tourer...and then remove the screen in hot weather to get that wind in your face feeling....you can't realy do that with an RT.

DJ
beemerphile

Re: R11xxR Ergos?

Post by beemerphile »

threeflys wrote:I'm deciding between the R and RT and was wondering what the ergos differences are?
Obviously the weight and level of weather protection are vastly different between the two. The biggest ergo difference in my view is the high and rear-set footpeg position of the R-R relative to the lower and forward position on the R-RT. If you are a short of stature, 20-something yoga master, you will find the R-R pegs perfectly placed. If you are old, tall, arthritic or otherwise inflexible, you will find the R-R to be an expertly designed torture rack after about 100 miles. - Lee
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GeoffJ
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Post by GeoffJ »

The pegs on the R impose a sharper bend on the rider's knees than the RT. Look at the photos on BMW's web site and you'll see what I mean.
'96 BMW R1100R
'05 HD Electra Glide Ultra Classic
Jax

Post by Jax »

The riding position on the R1150R is easily changed to a more upright position.
1. High seat: $140 from Chicago BMW
2. Verholen peg lowering kit: Around $180 from Verholen
3. Bar-Backs: Around $50

This riding position with these changes totally changes the ergos on the R1150R.
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