Test ride R1150R riding impressions...

[crazyhawk99]

As some of you know, I have been interested in a local used R1150R, reference the thread that I recently posted:

http://www.r1150r.org/board/viewtopic.p ... d51f3d72e7

In a nutshell, the bike is a 2003 w/ABS and only 1,900 miles on it.

I recently test rode the bike and since I am totally new to the BMW experience, I wanted to share my thoughts and observations from the ride. They are in no particular order. If you read this, please don't feel I am bashing the bike. These are my riding observations of THIS bike and it is the only Beemer I have ridden.

1. I was immediately impressed by how light the bike felt while riding.

2. During slow parking lot speeds, I noticed a significant tendency that the bike wanted to "fall into" turns. The only other motorcycle I have ridden with this tendency was a 2004 Harley V-Rod. Not a problem, just something to get used to.

3. I loved how the bike handled at speed. Light and confidence inspiring.

4. Very little flywheel effect. I killed it twice while taking off.

5. Neutral wasn't always easy to find, yet I hit it twice while upshifting.

6. The transmission was my least favorite thing on the bike. Shifting was not as much a positive feel as I would like. More interesting was when I shifted all the way down to first and if I pressed the shifter down, it moved down more as if another gear was to be found. All other bikes I have ridden, after shifting to first, if the shifter was attempted to be pressed down, it wouldn't move anymore. Is this normal for R1150Rs?

7. On-off throttle application was sometimes abrupt, requiring CAREFUL concentration if in a corner.

8. The bike had ABS and the brakes felt VERY strong, the only concern being, I had to really concentrate to modulate the braking. It was too easy to apply too much brake. Almost grabby, if you will.

9. The bike has the small windshield (standard, sport?), yet at 90 mph, it was smooth with little buffeting. The windshield provided great relief for the small size of it.

10. The power was more than I was expecting and the engine vibration was not an issue. There was some vibration, as I am sure is normal, but it was different than what I am used to (Jap in-line 4 and HD V-twin).

OVERALL impression: The transmission was what I liked the least and I most liked the way the bike handled in curves of medium plus speeds. I think this would be a really fun bike on a track or backroad.

I know it may seem that I didn't like the motorcycle, but I did and will be making the owner and offer on it within the coming days. I will keep you all updated and post the purchase if I get it.

I welcome any input you all have regarding my experience and if your experiences have been similar or if you think it was the particular bike I was riding.

Thanks for taking the time to read. I love the forum.

Greg

[klrstix]

I thought your "impressions" are fair initial thoughts on the R1150R. I have a 2004 model and my initial thoughts were the along the same lines.

As far as the transmission goes, I think the opposed twin BMW's have had a long standing reputation for being "clunky". (I seem to recall that being the case anyway...) I think the fact this bike does not have a "Wet" clutch is the reason the initial impressions run this way. I think this is just another one of those "unique" characteristics of this type of bike that once you get used to it, you no longer even think about it. But for a 1st impression I completely understand your thoughts. Your observation regarding 1st gear is present on my 1150R but I have simply gotten used to it.

After having owned my 1150R for 14 months, (I bought it used) I have found this a bike that can do several things well (with the right gear!). I commute, ride two up for up to six hour rides, and occasionally torment the adrenaline junkies with my "stodgy old boxer". I have been extremely pleased with my purchase.

[Sit]

Greg, I have had my R for 2 years and 18K miles now and everything you mentioned is normal to me and from other posts, normal to others too. My transmission was clunky, but is getting smoother and smoother, both in shifts and how high is likes to rev.

As for slow speed turns in parking lots, I think you will get used to it. I have found that with some practice, counterbalancing comes quickly and full lock turns are fairly easy in parking lots and most of the time eneventful

Once you are in first, the shift lever will continue to move. Other BMW's have a positive first, but for some reason the R doesnt, at least the ones I have riden.

The throttle and brakes do tend to be touchy, again you get use to it. It takes a bit to get either one smooth, but it comes.

Overall, I think the bike you rode sounds like my bike. I have been contemplating selling mine and moving to a GS, but every time I get on mine, I just love it! As time has passed and miles have grown, the bike has gotten smoother and more powerful, well it seems like it. I just had the 18K service done and with the fresh sync and new plugs and everything, the bike was incredibly strong and smooth feeling going home. Brought out the hidden hooligan in me!

[crazyhawk99]

Thanks for the reply.

I must clarify that I didn't find the transmission "clunky". Trust me, I have a Big Twin HD and I know clunky. It was more "vague" than anything, but nothing that I couldn't learn to appreciate as a quirk, if you will, of the bike.

I didn't realize that the 1150R had a dry clutch. Interesting... as it doesn't exhibit the sounds associated, as does a Ducati.

As for tormenting others, I have an 04 ZX10R (for the bike's potential, not mine) and have been bested by many bikes such as the 1150R. I well know that the rider has more to do with the ride, than the bike does. The ZX10R is intense, while my experience with the 1150R was exciting, fun and "free". Hard to explain.

Although, I don't even know yet exactly what my offer will be, I hope the owner accepts it, because I have already started my mental process of "improving" the 1150R with system cases, aftermarket exhaust, dark windscreen, etc...............

Greg

I thought your "impressions" are fair initial thoughts on the R1150R. I have a 2004 model and my initial thoughts were the along the same lines.

As far as the transmission goes, I think the opposed twin BMW's have had a long standing reputation for being "clunky". (I seem to recall that being the case anyway...) I think the fact this bike does not have a "Wet" clutch is the reason the initial impressions run this way. I think this is just another one of those "unique" characteristics of this type of bike that once you get used to it, you no longer even think about it. But for a 1st impression I completely understand your thoughts. Your observation regarding 1st gear is present on my 1150R but I have simply gotten used to it.

After having owned my 1150R for 14 months, (I bought it used) I have found this a bike that can do several things well (with the right gear!). I commute, ride two up for up to six hour rides, and occasionally torment the adrenaline junkies with my "stodgy old boxer". I have been extremely pleased with my purchase.

[dnat928]

There have been a few tips in the forum about shifting. The most useful to me was the technique of putting some upward pressure on the shift lever prior to shifting. Then, in goes the clutch and with more upward pressure, the shift goes smoothly - especially the 1-2 shift. With this technique, I NEVER hit neutral during 1-2 shifting any more (used to be about 20% neutral hits before...). UMmm, this shifting technique also works for speed shifting (no clutch) - I've tried it a few times just for fun, but I usually use the clutch.

[Buckster]

I have found that barely pulling in the clutch for upshifting works best and just lightly letting off the thottle when shifting. It doesn't let the RPMs down so much and gives you a smoother shift. I do hit nuetral more than I think the bike should but I will be changing out final drive fluid soon and adding some "moly' as others have suggested in other threads.

[telliott]

I have found that barely pulling in the clutch for upshifting works best and just lightly letting off the thottle when shifting. It doesn't let the RPMs down so much and gives you a smoother shift. I do hit nuetral more than I think the bike should but I will be changing out final drive fluid soon and adding some "moly' as others have suggested in other threads.

I agree with Buckster. Two fingers on the clutch and just barely pull it as you VERY slightly back off the throttle. This is extremely smooth when you get the feel for it. No more herky/jerky which was all I could do when I first got the R. I don't have any problems with false neutrals.

[crazyhawk99]

Thanks for the feedback. Since I am considering this particular bike, it is good to know that what I experienced is normal for the model, so I need not worry about this one.

As I said, I enjoyed the ride and could tell that it would only get better with more time in the saddle.

Greg

Greg, I have had my R for 2 years and 18K miles now and everything you mentioned is normal to me and from other posts, normal to others too. My transmission was clunky, but is getting smoother and smoother, both in shifts and how high is likes to rev.

As for slow speed turns in parking lots, I think you will get used to it. I have found that with some practice, counterbalancing comes quickly and full lock turns are fairly easy in parking lots and most of the time eneventful

Once you are in first, the shift lever will continue to move. Other BMW's have a positive first, but for some reason the R doesnt, at least the ones I have riden.

The throttle and brakes do tend to be touchy, again you get use to it. It takes a bit to get either one smooth, but it comes.

Overall, I think the bike you rode sounds like my bike. I have been contemplating selling mine and moving to a GS, but every time I get on mine, I just love it! As time has passed and miles have grown, the bike has gotten smoother and more powerful, well it seems like it. I just had the 18K service done and with the fresh sync and new plugs and everything, the bike was incredibly strong and smooth feeling going home. Brought out the hidden hooligan in me!

[crazyhawk99]

Thanks Buckster.

Actually, after the test ride and I was sitting at home, I started to wonder if maybe the clutch cable or engagement point weren't possible off a bit. If so, I am sure a fairly easy fix.

Thanks for the shifting tips. If I end up with the bike, I'll give it a go.

Greg

I have found that barely pulling in the clutch for upshifting works best and just lightly letting off the thottle when shifting. It doesn't let the RPMs down so much and gives you a smoother shift. I do hit nuetral more than I think the bike should but I will be changing out final drive fluid soon and adding some "moly' as others have suggested in other threads.

[crazyhawk99]

Thanks for the tips. I have also used this technique on my ZX10R and it works, but like you, I usually use the clutch. If I get the bike, I'll for sure give it a try.

Greg

There have been a few tips in the forum about shifting. The most useful to me was the technique of putting some upward pressure on the shift lever prior to shifting. Then, in goes the clutch and with more upward pressure, the shift goes smoothly - especially the 1-2 shift. With this technique, I NEVER hit neutral during 1-2 shifting any more (used to be about 20% neutral hits before...). UMmm, this shifting technique also works for speed shifting (no clutch) - I've tried it a few times just for fun, but I usually use the clutch.

[mad1150]

In addition to pre-loading the shift lever, it takes minimal clutch lever movement to disengage it enough to shift. 1/4 to 1/3 lever movement depending on where the lever adjuster is set.

Also, I have found that my R shifts smoother at higher RPMs, say 3K and up. Unfortunately we can't always operate that way

[TimH]

My two cents..
I recently bought an '04 1150RA with under 7k miles. I'd gone to the local BMW dealer here in the Atlanta area with the intention of TR'ing an '04 Roadster....Got there , road an RT first....then rode the RA and that was it. I felt immediately comfortable, the seemed to fit perfectly.( didn't buy that one though).
I commute daily year round. I was concerned about coverage from the installed Sport Shield. I've put a couple of thousand miles on it over the past few weeks...Coverage seems to be fine..just enough to keep the blast off your chest) That being said we'll see how it fares over the winter....
The shifting issue ( clunky, duncky etc) is all but mitigated by developing the 'touch". The touch being pleload the shifter,the tiniest squeeze on the cluth lever, and the tiniest click on the shifter. Once you feel it, it works both upshift and down..( with a little bip of throttle on dowhift)..almost like an F1 car with paddle shifters.
As for number 5, my Shadow had the movement you refer to, but my friends newer Triumph Bonnevile didn't. The Beemer does and I didn't think too much about it.
Number 8......Yes the brakes are intense and grabby, again requiring a developed sense of touch. I have come to use just the tips of my four fingers and now MOST of the time I don't "grab too much"

I am finding continued joy in my decision to buy the RA. Great fast, excellent slower..comfortable. To me, the bike is all about being finessed rather than "man handled" You do have to "get with the bike" a liitle but the rewards are great!!!!
Good Luck!!
Tim

[crazyhawk99]

Tim,

Thanks for your thoughts. Pretty much jives with what everyone else is saying as well. Needless to say, I am excited about the prospect of getting this bike. I hope the owner accepts my offer. I should know soon. If I buy it, look for a post on this forum with pics and the price paid. As I have mentioned to others, I am already excited about adding some stuff to the bike such as bags, aftermarket exhaust, etc...

Greg

My two cents..
I recently bought an '04 1150RA with under 7k miles. I'd gone to the local BMW dealer here in the Atlanta area with the intention of TR'ing an '04 Roadster....Got there , road an RT first....then rode the RA and that was it. I felt immediately comfortable, the seemed to fit perfectly.( didn't buy that one though).
I commute daily year round. I was concerned about coverage from the installed Sport Shield. I've put a couple of thousand miles on it over the past few weeks...Coverage seems to be fine..just enough to keep the blast off your chest) That being said we'll see how it fares over the winter....
The shifting issue ( clunky, duncky etc) is all but mitigated by developing the 'touch". The touch being pleload the shifter,the tiniest squeeze on the cluth lever, and the tiniest click on the shifter. Once you feel it, it works both upshift and down..( with a little bip of throttle on dowhift)..almost like an F1 car with paddle shifters.
As for number 5, my Shadow had the movement you refer to, but my friends newer Triumph Bonnevile didn't. The Beemer does and I didn't think too much about it.
Number 8......Yes the brakes are intense and grabby, again requiring a developed sense of touch. I have come to use just the tips of my four fingers and now MOST of the time I don't "grab too much"

I am finding continued joy in my decision to buy the RA. Great fast, excellent slower..comfortable. To me, the bike is all about being finessed rather than "man handled" You do have to "get with the bike" a liitle but the rewards are great!!!!
Good Luck!!
Tim

[johnnydee]

Thanks Crazy for a great ride review.
I'm waiting for my own first RR ride.
How's the ride on the Autobahn!

John

[Byrdguy]

The R1150R is one of the best all around bikes you'll find. It does everything pretty dang well. I have an 02 that I bought new and although it only has 13k miles on it, it gets better as time goes on. I think you'll find the shifting will improve once some miles are on the bike. Also, as you stated, you'll be looking for goodies to "make it your own" and, that is another great thing about the bike, there is a ton of stuff out there to choose from. I had been thinking of going to a new 1200R, but decided to get some goodies for mine instead and it's like a new bike for a lot less $$. Life is good. Go for it, you'll be happy.

[orangebob]

I agree with all your observations...especially the brakes. Mine are not ABS...wish that they were. I was used to my HD V-Rod and there's a world of difference. I'd like to detune them just a bit. One observation that I'd add is that I found 2nd gear a little close (ratio) to 1st. I've gotten used to shifting...throttle control is critical for smooooth operation. I thought that the R would not feel as planted as the V-Rod at freeway speeds...but hit 85 on the way home and is was solid as a rock.

Great all-round bike...planning to tour this summer.

[Brownw3]

Nothing new under the sun

1. The bike hasn't even been used yet. BMW transmissions are clunky; you'll be glad its clunky when you're not replacing it like the others. Its just better, trust me. Although not clickable, it is reliable and tough. You'll learn to shift up by pressuring the shifterslightly, then clutching. You'll be impressedd.

2. Keep the bike where it needs to be. Low speed turns require practice. Personally I think the Beemer is the best turning bike in the known universe. low speed, high speed, etc. counterbalance, countersteer... counter balance, countersteer. If you're used to cruisers, this will require practice.

3. If you're used to sitting 25 inches off the ground on a cruiser, this bike will feel top heavy. ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS keep it above 3000 rpm. Get used to feeling the flow. If you're lugging the bike and you yank on the loud handle it will get squirrelyy, go into that turn with the right revs; slow look lean and ROLL. feel the flow, use the force... above 3K always.

4. I like ABS but you have to get used to it. It stops the bike in a hurry. Moving into a turn, I squeeze it with one finger to equalize the wheel speeds and thats plenty. Wait till it keeps you from getting smushed the first time. You'll love it.

The bottom line is these are quirky machines that require some re-thinking. rev it, lean it, etc and you'll find its engineered to perform hot and smooth.

[abogado]

I bought my r1150r three years ago. I use it during weekends just to make a 200-300 kms trip. But I can asure that is the most fantastic engine I have ever used ( I had experiences with Kawasaki 400, Suzuki 400, Honda 750 VFR and BMW K100LT).
Yesterday I went to Seville and back (from Malaga-Spain - 450 Kms) and I really enjoy the journey at a 120-140 Kms speed, feeling the wind and the smooth engine roaring under my seat. I only can say that is a very noble machine and that I am very proud of being its owner.
Sorry my poor english.

[mc4fox]

I've got the itch to get back into motorcycling, and have been checking out a 2004 R1150R with low miles.

Felt great on the test ride except for a couple issues/questions:

- I think I would need to get barbacks/risers... It seemed like I was sliding forward on the seat, into the tank a little. (I'm only 5'7", so the bars are a slight reach)

- I've searched/read thru the forum about windshield options, and I think I'm confused as ever The bike has the BWM sport shield (I think that's it - it's definitely not the flyscreen, or the tall touring shield).
It seemed a little noiser than the last time I rode an unfaired bike. My head wasn't knocked around much, but the wind noise/whistle was strong. (Maybe it was the helmet I borrowed)
Has anyone used the Laminar Lip on this shield? I'm hoping that would lift the blast up over my head and make it quieter.

Otherwise, the bike seems awesome. Plenty of power for me, and the suspension felt great.

Thanks - Mike

[mc4fox]

I've got the itch to get back into motorcycling, and have been checking out a 2004 R1150R with low miles.

Felt great on the test ride except for a couple issues/questions:

- I think I would need to get barbacks/risers... It seemed like I was sliding forward on the seat, into the tank a little. (I'm only 5'7", so the bars are a slight reach)

- I've searched/read thru the forum about windshield options, and I think I'm confused as ever The bike has the BWM sport shield (I think that's it - it's definitely not the flyscreen, or the tall touring shield).
It seemed a little noiser than the last time I rode an unfaired bike. My head wasn't knocked around much, but the wind noise/whistle was strong. (Maybe it was the helmet I borrowed)
Has anyone used the Laminar Lip on this shield? I'm hoping that would lift the blast up over my head and make it quieter.

Otherwise, the bike seems awesome. Plenty of power for me, and the suspension felt great.

Thanks - Mike

Anyone have comments about my question above? Really trying to decide if this is the bike for me or not.

Thanks again - Mike