K11 Owners Group

[Das Boot]

Hi everyone,

I had a fellow test drive a 2007 R12S at the shop. After he left, I took it for a spin in 30 degree temps. My thoughts: The bike had Ohlins front and rear, and handled wonderfully. The powerband was less impressive. The bike is claimed to have 122hp and 83 ft lbs of torque, I sure couldn't feel it anywhere. Vibration was poor at idle even after the bike finally warmed up, at speed the vibrations were less and somewhat acceptable.
The transmission was smooth and better then expected wind protection. The tool kit and owners manual leave a lot to be desired like all of the new bikes now. The brakes were very good, trail braked a few time in some sweepers, the bike went wherever it was pointed effortlessly. Fit and finish is grade A.

Overall. I would give it a B+ rating as a second bike to the K11 and a flat C as a single mount. Mainly due to the fact the passenger seat is way too high, like most sport bikes for a pillion rider and a center stand is not available.

I have ridden everything new outside of all the HP models and the 650 Xcountry and new Adventure. If I was buying something new today I would go for the new GS followed by the RT and the K12S. The RT is probably the best bang for the dollar overall followed by the K12S, in my opinion.
I hope we have good weather at Hungry Mother
_________________
Dom

[Klinker]

[Off the grid]

[SugarHillCTD]

Dom,

Have you ridden an F800S or ST? Would be interested in your thoughts.

John

[abreeze]

The R motors are definetly different than the K motors we ride. The Hp and Tq are not as aparent as the K, although its there.

[Das Boot]

[quote="SugarHillCTD"]Dom,

Have you ridden an F800S or ST? Would be interested in your thoughts.

John[/quote

Hi John,

I love twins, my favorite bikes are all twins: R69S, Motosport 1977R100RS, 1984R100CS, R1200GS, V7 Sport, Lemans and any big bore Ducati. The F series BMW's are not in that company. However, they have a lot of merit.
The Good:
The handling and brakes are excellent. The fit and finish is above average, the instuments are easy to read. The mirrors are excellent, nearly as steady as a K11's at speed. The transmission is precise, the clutch is average. The ergo's are spot on for me at 5'6, taller people may be a little cramped. The belt drive was very smooth and quiet.
The Bad:
The side stand "foot" leaves a lot to be desired, it gives about a dime sized contact patch. The engine feels slightly under powered and worse sounds like a moped. The price is high in my opinion at 13K with the basic BMW add ons.
My conclusion:
It would be a nice machine for someone to ride around town and do some canyon type riding, in solo operation. It would also fit well for someone learning to ride or someone that wants a light weight bike. The R1200R has more and better of everything. Standard center stand, 24 more hp, and what feels like 50% more torque. The fit and finish is a little nicer on the R IMHO. Most everything mentioned however is very subjective. I would test ride one, since they have not been the hot sellers, there are plenty to be had. If you like them go for an 07 model on a dealers floor, BMW is offering deals on the F models and most of the other models as well. Best of luck.
_________________
Dom

[rydor]

I'll stick with the brick

[6899]

One of the reasons I got a "K" was its reliability and price. I'm disappointed in the New BMWs; drive failures??????

I'll stick with my Brick, too.
_________________
1996 K1100LT, 73K (bought at 61K on 2006)
1977 R100/7, bought new, rode 97K in 29 yrs before parting out
1970 R50/5, bought used, rode 40K & sold

BMWMOA #6899 since 1976
Indy BMW Club since 1975