Anyone here had a K1200lt?

[c00k1e]

I have had an offer of a few days in the alps on a R1200GS. Now I have only ridden 2 bikes in the last 15 years (ST1100 and a K1200lt) Is it sensible to take up the offer - the most challenging roads on a 'new' bike to me? Or is it quite and easy bike to get the hang of?
Thanks in advance

[gfspencer]

I looked at your bio and if you have put 60,000 miles on your BMW you are an experienced rider. I checked because I don’t think the Alps is a place to ride if you don’t have experience . . . even though many people ride it without experience.

If you are an experienced rider you will not have any trouble getting used to the GS. Just about every time I ride the Alps (or the Dolomites or the Pyrenees) I usually end up renting a new - to me - bike. I do that because I want to try out BMW's latest and greatest. Lately, however, I have stuck with a GS because in my humble opinion it is simply the best bike for the job. The handlebars give you excellent leverage. The long travel suspension soaks up the bumps. The bike has plenty of power for getting you up and over the passes. So ride the GS and enjoy. If you can hustle around an LT you won't have any problem with a GS!

[amarider]

Sounds like an offer of a life time. The GS is an amazing motorcycle, the only problem you may have is getting back on the LT. I have switched back and forth from LT to boxers without any problems.
As well as the LT handles, the GS will seem effortless, light and nimble compared to the LT. The LT may be smoother and the best at two up touring but the GS is the perfect ticket for mountain riding. Enjoy.

[vstromboli]

I say go for it. I own an LT and a V-Strom and rode the Alps last year on a R1200GS without issue. In fact, the GS was a blast to ride.

DO IT!

[c00k1e]

Thanks all. I had a choice of all the BMW range and looked at all the specs. The GS seemed the natural choice. I could have had an LT and I will ride my KTthere next year, but that will be 2 up and with luggage - this is just a weekend and 1 up - GS seems to be the best for that
Thanks again

[dyvking]

I have had an offer of a few days in the alps on a R1200GS. Now I have only ridden 2 bikes in the last 15 years (ST1100 and a K1200lt) Is it sensible to take up the offer - the most challenging roads on a 'new' bike to me? Or is it quite and easy bike to get the hang of?
Thanks in advance
You'll probably come home and throw rocks at the LT. Go ahead and do it. You'll get the hang of the GS in only a few miles. No worries.