Demo'd a K1200S Today

ConqSoft · 05-21-2006, 12:00 AM

Finally got around to dropping by the BMW dealer and taking a K1200S out for a spin. It was a 10 mile route through city streets and a stretch of highway.

It was "okay", but I wasn't blown away like I thought I would be.

Pros:
-Nice upright riding position.
-Great suspension - electronically adjustable.
-Digital gear indicator.
-Heated Grips.
-OEM Hard Luggage Available.
-OEM Alarm System Available.

Cons:
-Princess said that it's less comfortable than the XX for the passenger. Maybe corrected with an aftermarket seat?
-I HATE BWM turn signals.

-Price

I did like the K1200GT though. Might go back another Satuday and demo one of those.

sheepofblue · 05-21-2006, 12:04 AM

Did you check the R series?

ConqSoft · 05-21-2006, 12:05 AM

Yeah, I saw them there... Not really interested at this time though.

Baketech · 05-21-2006, 6:18 AM

Ditto on the turn signal thing...

phobiaphobe · 05-21-2006, 1:34 PM

I would echo what you said there. If you didn't get an opportunity to try on some twisty roads then you can't fully appreciate it. It changes directions remarkably easily.

Big +1 on the indicators... even worse than Harley.

ConqSoft · 05-21-2006, 1:38 PM

Yeah, it felt pretty good on the sweeper on/off ramps, but the steering felt really heavy at low speeds. The XX seems to brake better as well.

Purpdust · 05-25-2006, 7:42 PM

I hated the turn signals as well. Did you push the horn when trying to cancel the signals

Purpdust · 05-25-2006, 7:43 PM

I have not been on the K but the R1200rt and GS did fine. On the road they were just as fast as the sportbikes in the tight twisties with in reason. (ie site rules)

RC51Mike · 09-11-2006, 6:46 PM

I just saw one of these in the flesh for the first time recently and I have to say it pushed my buttons. I like the look and the concept. After my extreme disappointment of no new VFR, I may take one for a test ride. I'd been looking at a Ducati ST3 and was headed in that direction but something about it...maybe because the front looks like an outdated VFR and the windshield doesn't look proportioned right for the bike. Anyway, the K1200S may move to the top of my list. It's a bit heavier than the ST3 and the Triumph Sprint, which felt top heavy to me. If there is an impending parking lot tip over, I wonder will I still be able to save it?

nhfirefighter13 · 09-11-2006, 7:03 PM

The K1200S will eat a VFR alive. They're pretty cool bike, I think.

mptpro · 09-20-2006, 3:19 AM

Just for kicks I thought that I'd mention that at LOVE the BMW turn signals. Maybe cause I'm from Germany - I always hated the "regular" type. Right for right, left for left, and a seperate button to turn either off. Easy, peasey

Baketech · 09-20-2006, 6:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nhfirefighter13

The K1200S will eat a VFR alive. They're pretty cool bike, I think.

In the same way that a GSXR750 would eat the EX500 I guess, similar engine size disparity...

Seriously though, having only ridden the old K1200RS, I'd imagine that the new S would only beat a VFR in it's niche areas (2-up stuff). I'll wager that a VFR would still do a better job in it's niche of mono sport touring...

RC51Mike · 09-20-2006, 8:22 AM

My principal use is some long distance sport touring. Cross-country, British Columbia, maybe Alaska, Quebec and Nova Scotia. I don't need to prove my manliness dragging my knee on the streets anymore 'cause I'm older and mature

but still want to have some fun when I get to the turny parts. I could be happy with a VFR if only there was a new one for '07

Baketech · 09-20-2006, 8:28 AM

I have a riding buddy with an RS, and it does that role very well...

Not to mention that it will walk a 929...