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BMW R1200RT
Bike Summary
Price: €18,870
Engine: 1170 cc
Year of model: 2005
print | start over

Click items to expand Opinions
BBG Score
 
 
  55%
Styling And Design
Score:1/10
The RT has undergone some subtle changes over the past two years, such as an exstensive fairing redesign. Saddle has been reshaped to a more flat state, whilst side panels have been trimmed and give of a sharp and more confined feel. The RT looks bare until the additional option of panniers, which even themselves are refined since its relaunch in 2005. More attractive than Honda’s Pan European and Brother R1200ST. More optional extras than you can throw the kitchen sink at, heated grips, saddle, cd player etc etc.
Performance
Score:7/10
In comparison with it's arch-rival, Honda’s Pan European, the RT brings almost 15hp less power, though offers a distinct torque band only available by its flat V-twin engine. Gear changes powered by a super-smooth belt drive are easily flicked through, whilst throttle response in both low and high gears is just as easygoing too. Smooth as can be, the RT is however a bit hesitant when you take it by the scruff of the neck, onwards of 6500RPM, things can get a little cshaky. Then again what bike does. For good measure, Itl do 0-100kph in 3.3 seconds!
Ride And Handling
Score:8/10
Handling is poised through varyning types of road, with an almost gliding feel thanks to high sat handlebars and a smooth telelever fork setup. Ground clearance is more than satisfactory whilst leant over, and even if you do opt to take it for a track outing, will provide relevant space before you get those cylinder heads scraping (provided the panniers are off!!). Now on par with Honda’s pan european, BMW truly have mastered the sourcery of constructing great handling bikes.
Comfort
 Score:6/10
Overall rider positioning not only gives a feel of rider control, though offers armchair-like comfort for those who intend on frequently munching miles. High fairing provides car-like wind protection, whilst lower leg guards will keep heat in your feet. Dash controls are placed nicely, with handlebar switch controls easily accessible. Pillion comfort is exceptional, especially in company of lower mounted panniers. These infact provide a feel of security, allowing the pillions leg to rest on their sides.

+ Good

Atrractive, comfortable, handles well and solid on resale. Why not?

- Bad

Slimfast could do the trick, maybe for 2008.
 

= Summary =

The traits that the new RT has carried on from the original model bring an improved family resemblence, making it our favourite to steal touring honours throughout 2008. Despite being launched way back in , the 2008 BMW R1200 RT is still running on the same basic platform. That is a very good thing however, as the RT's agile (by touring standards) chassis combined with a grunty 1170cc boxer engine mean its got the legs to take on a Pan European in a straight line. In summary, the RT combines couch comfort with passable handling, and reasonable looks with a beefy motor.
Detailed Statistics
Max Speed 226 kmph
Max Power 110bhp
Seat Height 820 mm
Weight 259 kilos
0 - 100 kph 3.3 secs
Capacity 1170 cc
Fuel Economy 40 mpg
Insurance Group 11
Image Gallery - Click image to view supersize
Our view on the best points
CBG Score
 
 
  55%
 
Styling And Design The RT has undergone some subtle changes over the past two years, such as an exstensive fairing redesign. Saddle has been reshaped to a more flat state, whilst side panels have been trimmed and give of a sharp and more confined feel. The RT looks bare until the additional option of panniers, which even themselves are refined since its relaunch in 2005. More attractive than Honda’s Pan European and Brother R1200ST. More optional extras than you can throw the kitchen sink at, heated grips, saddle, cd player etc etc.
+ Attractive Tourers? - Bulky in hindsight
Score: 1/10
Performance In comparison with it's arch-rival, Honda’s Pan European, the RT brings almost 15hp less power, though offers a distinct torque band only available by its flat V-twin engine. Gear changes powered by a super-smooth belt drive are easily flicked through, whilst throttle response in both low and high gears is just as easygoing too. Smooth as can be, the RT is however a bit hesitant when you take it by the scruff of the neck, onwards of 6500RPM, things can get a little cshaky. Then again what bike does. For good measure, Itl do 0-100kph in 3.3 seconds!
+ Fluent power - Hesitant over 6000RPM
Score: 7/10
Ride And Handling Handling is poised through varyning types of road, with an almost gliding feel thanks to high sat handlebars and a smooth telelever fork setup. Ground clearance is more than satisfactory whilst leant over, and even if you do opt to take it for a track outing, will provide relevant space before you get those cylinder heads scraping (provided the panniers are off!!). Now on par with Honda’s pan european, BMW truly have mastered the sourcery of constructing great handling bikes.
+ Lean happy - Heavy foot pushed
Score: 8/10
Comfort Overall rider positioning not only gives a feel of rider control, though offers armchair-like comfort for those who intend on frequently munching miles. High fairing provides car-like wind protection, whilst lower leg guards will keep heat in your feet. Dash controls are placed nicely, with handlebar switch controls easily accessible. Pillion comfort is exceptional, especially in company of lower mounted panniers. These infact provide a feel of security, allowing the pillions leg to rest on their sides.
+ Weather Protection - Mid seat ridge
Score: 6/10