New Bike: 2017 BMW R1200RT
Ricardo Perez
Got the new BMW RT motorcycle this month. It's white so it really looks sharp when it's clean. I've had it for about two weeks and have just under 1,000 miles. Looking forward to spring and summer riding.
I think it handles better than my 2013 RT, the last of the non-water cooled RTs, even though it's just slightly heavier. Once rolling it seems lighter and easier to maneuver at slow speeds, but that's just my opinion. It sits lower than the pre-2014 models as I can, depending on the riding boot I'm wearing, sit flat footed or just about, whereas on my '13 I could only touch down with the balls of my feet. I have a 31" inseam. Shifting is smoother and the Pro-Shift feature is nice, especially going from 3rd to 4th, 5th, and 6th. I've also got the new Pro-ABS feature that engages the ABS even on lean angles. Of course, I haven't had to engage that feature and don't look forward to doing that.
The new instrument panel provides a ton of information so it takes a little time to know where everything is displayed. it displays some handy information. I like to display either temperature, range to empty, or tire pressure, but there's lots more that can be displayed and it all depends on what you'd like to see. The radio system has Sirius/XM with a free 12 month subscription, AM, FM, along with bluetooth connections for your cell phone, Navigational GPS unit, and/or helmet. There is also a USB connector that will charge your phone.
It comes with the Michelin P4s which I think are about the best touring tire for the RT and a bunch of other options that I haven't had time to play with.
I'll follow this up with an "long term" report once I get a few more miles on it.