GT or FJR1300A - Both are free - which would you take?

[cccpastorjack]

All this talk about the FJR's...I have one question to pose:

You place both bikes side by side...brand new...both bikes fully loaded...you can choose either bike and it's totally free. Which one do you choose?

That decision would not take me even a millisecond! The GT wins hands down.

NOW -- WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE??? and PLEASE don't discuss cost. EITHER ONE IS FREE...Which do you choose???

[hoog62]

If I'm getting a free bike? Neither.

BTW, Have you ridden either?

[cccpastorjack]

If I'm getting a free bike? Neither.


...that helps a lot! :confused: Thanks for the "input" anyway! :cool:

[grifscoots]

No brainer here. More toys on the GT: cruise & ESA. TPM, Xenon and ASC should all be here by spring.

I could have gotten either, I chose the GT.

[Dvaprez]

No contest..
BMW K1200GT

The only reason I would choose otherwise would be for the cost. I chose the more expensive bike.

[DavidTaylor]

Absolutely the GT. I've ridden both and for free a loaded GT is way better than a loaded FJR.

[slowflyn]

I didn't try the "A", but tested the FJR. I own the GT.

[messenger13]

If I'm getting a free bike? Neither.So it's that kind of logic that lead you to the Yama purchase! :D

Truth be told, when Yamaha announced the FJR I was anxiously waiting in line to see it. I thought I would buy one for sure. But when I sat on it, it just didn't thrill me. It felt kinda like a somewhat modernized Concours. :sleep:

I ignored the new GT for as long as possible. Until that fateful day when the wife and I stopped by the dealer and I sat on it. Then she sat on it. And the rest . . . is history.

Oh yea...I'll take the Beemer please. :)

[Randy]

All this talk about the FJR's...I have one question to pose:

You place both bikes side by side...brand new...both bikes fully loaded...you can choose either bike and it's totally free. Which one do you choose?

That decision would not take me even a millisecond! The GT wins hands down.

NOW -- WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE??? and PLEASE don't discuss cost. EITHER ONE IS FREE...Which do you choose???For free or for a fee - it's the GT ;)

I've ridden both, had the FJR for a long weekend, then bought the GT. The GT's suspension alone is enough to tip the scales for me and that is without ESA as a factor. Add in ESA and it is even better still. The GT has MUCH better heat management. Factory cruise control, bigger luggage, better luggage attachment, available matching topcase (in two styles), heated grips and seats are icing on the GT cake. Lastly, and this is a personal feeling, the FJR engine doesn't have nearly the soul that the GT engine does and feels a little less refined. If you think the GT transmission is clunky, ride an FJR, it is definitely no better.

FWIW my neighbor's brother in law has a 2006 FJR that replaced his 2004 FJR. He went on and on about how much better the '06 is than his older one. We traded bikes for a day in October (this was after I the one I had for a long weekend). We rode a loop up through Coal Creek Canyon and though the Rockies - he took delivery of a 2007 GT last month. This exposed one of the strengths of the FJR, he was able to sell it in about a week getting within $1000 of what he paid for it.

Now he is looking long and hard at my new GS.

[meese]

Hmm, you post this question on a BMW enthusiast website, in a GT-specific forum. Nope, no bias here. :D

At this point I can afford either bike, or both for that matter. So money isn't a concern in my decision. I like the unique technology that BMW offers, and that's what keeps bringing me back. And the new generation K bikes are enough of a leap forward that I'm looking at getting a GT, even though I'd rather wait and see what the new LT will be like. But I'm sure not gonna wait another two years before replacing my aging LT.

The FJR is a very popular bike, especially among the LD crowd. But it doesn't speak to me either, and since absolute cost isn't a factor I don't see any other real advantages to it, at least for my needs. I'd like to see a Concours14 up close, but I figure it's pretty much the same as the FJR, regardless of what the marketing guys say.

Besides if anyone here did choose an FJR over a GT in your hypothetical scenario, Joe would just make fun of them until they gave up and went away. ;)

[tmgs]

All this talk about the FJR's...I have one question to pose:

You place both bikes side by side...brand new...both bikes fully loaded...you can choose either bike and it's totally free. Which one do you choose?

That decision would not take me even a millisecond! The GT wins hands down.

NOW -- WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE??? and PLEASE don't discuss cost. EITHER ONE IS FREE...Which do you choose???


That isn't really a question is it<g>.

Now had you added you must keep the bike for years and years then it would have been a choice of function over value <grin>

My choice would be the GT if i had to choose between the two.(even if it were not free)



Tom

[tmgs]

Hmm, you post this question on a BMW enthusiast website, in a GT-specific forum. Nope, no bias here. :D

At this point I can afford either bike, or both for that matter. So money isn't a concern in my decision. I like the unique technology that BMW offers, and that's what keeps bringing me back. And the new generation K bikes are enough of a leap forward that I'm looking at getting a GT, even though I'd rather wait and see what the new LT will be like. But I'm sure not gonna wait another two years before replacing my aging LT.

The FJR is a very popular bike, especially among the LD crowd. But it doesn't speak to me either, and since absolute cost isn't a factor I don't see any other real advantages to it, at least for my needs. I'd like to see a Concours14 up close, but I figure it's pretty much the same as the FJR, regardless of what the marketing guys say.

Besides if anyone here did choose an FJR over a GT in your hypothetical scenario, Joe would just make fun of them until they gave up and went away. ;)

Your good! <grin>

I do not think anyone would choose a free FJR over a free GT, if they did they would be throwing out what 7k dollars?
(heck next year it would be more like 8k since the fjr market is filling)

Then again with my new GSA and goodies , I could have easily bought the GT with top box and had some cash left over to fill up the tank a few times (maybe I got carried away?) Maybe I will buy a GT in the future, but so far I really enjoy the GSA, and if I add another bike I could see it being something Karen or I could both ride as a spare bike, maybe another 1200GS instead of GT and keep a very custom shortened seat around for her so she could ride it as well.

Then again I do have the '58 that she can almost touch the ground on <grin> Which is getting closer to seeeing the road again!

Tom

[ibbones]

GT would be in my garage. I think it looks really cool and the fact thet not everybody has one makes it even better.

[mjac]

Do I have to keep my choice?

[Griffis]

I have both, an 07 GT and 06 FJR (as well as an 06 GSA and 06 Goldwing)... the GT is much more spirited, quicker motor, all around more fun. Advantages of FJR are (1) price, (2) smoother transmission - but the GT's 6 speed offsets this, (3) better seat. However, owning both bikes, the GT is the winner hands down -- it's so much more fun to ride than the FJR. Also has more gadgets, like cruise and ESA. Sorta like comparing the LT to the Goldwing - when I had an LT and Goldwing, the LT had 23,000 miles while the Goldwing only had 6,000-- even though if I had to rate these bikes on purely objective criteria the Goldwing would win. But, when you consider the intangible factors (fun, excitment, smiles/mile, ect), my BMW's always win.

[bmwhd]

For free? Hmm...I would likely take the GT in that case since it's fully loaded price is now approaching twice that of a base FJR. You'd be nuts not to.

It was 27 F when I left the house today. Could have used the heated grips on the GT :)

I also could have had either. I chose the FJR on comfort and looks (which are subjective as hell) and price (which is not) in that order. As the latest Rider comparo confirms, the differences are so small in practice between these two bikes it really comes down to how important the bells and whistles are to you. Since an '07 FJR1300A can be had now for $11,779 OTD at D&H, you have to really want the roundel IMHO.

[ronk1200lt]

I would take the GT because it is more expensive. I would then trade it in on a new GSA. I would use the price difference to pay for cruise control, ipod and radio connections and a new seat for the GSA. Let me know when I can pick up me free GSA.

[cccpastorjack]

Do I have to keep my choice?


For the sake of this thread...and the question...YES...you have to keep the bike you choose.

Here's what I'm getting at. A lot of people seem to be saying, "I'd rather have the FJR than the GT because "for the money" it's a better bike. Even though I disagree with that statement, I wanted to take money out of the picture and just see where folks would come down.

Now...I know that this is a BMW forum...even specific to the GT...I also know that choosing a motorcycle is VERY indiviual...I have ridden all my life. If you choose one, that's fine if it's right for you.

But, the bottom line is, you park them side by side and even just looking at them, the GT is SO much more refined. The fit and finish, to me, is SO much better than the FJR. I have worked on Japanese bikes for years. I now own my first BMW and although it is a little frustrating sometimes to work on it...the engineering is FAR superior. Just my 2 cents :D

[tmgs]

I would take the GT because it is more expensive. I would then trade it in on a new GSA. I would use the price difference to pay for cruise control, ipod and radio connections and a new seat for the GSA. Let me know when I can pick up me free GSA.

heheheh watch out with the GSA you may need to add some cash after the sale of the GT to the purchase of the GSA

dang toys n stuff <grin>

[Ruben]

All this talk about the FJR's...I have one question to pose:

You place both bikes side by side...brand new...both bikes fully loaded...you can choose either bike and it's totally free. Which one do you choose?

That decision would not take me even a millisecond! The GT wins hands down.

NOW -- WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE??? and PLEASE don't discuss cost. EITHER ONE IS FREE...Which do you choose???I REALLY wanted to buy an '06 FJR, as my local dealer assured me that the heat and valve tick issues had been solved. At Bike Week, in Daytona, I was ready to go for a test ride on one, sat on it, looked it over good, even started it. It didn't do ANYTHING for me.

I went over to the BMW area, sat on the GT, started it up, and could hardly wait for the test ride. After the ride, I was instantly in love. It really "sings" to me. Price wasn't an issue then, it would still be a no-brainer if the price was equal. Motorcycles are a passion for me, I wouldn't be interested in a FJR if it was free. It's probably a good bike, but it doesn't dazzle me.

Yup, give me another GT, I could always use a spare! :histerica

[meese]

Maybe you should ask the same question on an FJR board. Now that would be interesting. :D

[hoog62]

Maybe you should ask the same question on an FJR board. Now that would be interesting. :D


You would get more than a few that would pass on the GT based solely on the dealer issues and recent BMW reliability.



I still contend that any realistic comparison between the two bikes must include price, it is part of the equation. What I want to know is just how much you guys would pay for the extra bell and whistles, technology, and of course that "BMW mystic."

I bet BMW would like to know too, because they obviously didn't charge you enough. ;)

[meese]

You would get more than a few that would pass on the GT based solely on the dealer issues and recent BMW reliability.No argument there. Such issues are stil a concern of mine, after 4 K-bikes and almost 150K BMW miles. Fortunately I am a decent mechanic, and I enjoy getting to know the bike inside and out.

I still contend that any realistic comparison between the two bikes must include price, it is part of the equation.Yes price counts, but for many of us it is not the primary deciding factor. I can buy any number of brand-new bikes for $5-7K, but non of those suit my needs. I don't own a car, so comfort, versatility, year-round amenities, reliability, and fun factor all weigh in much more than cost. I'm not buying another toy; I'm buying my primary transportation, which also happens to be my primary hobby. So absolute price is the least of my concerns.

[hoog62]

Yes price counts, but for many of us it is not the primary deciding factor.


Like Tom once said, if price was the only factor, we'd all be riding Connies. Value becomes self evident at some point. For me, $21K is too much for the advantages (and detractions) of the GT. That's me, and it has nothing to do with whether or not I can afford it.

A few hundred folks were willing to pay $21K and I'm sure quite a few would pay $23K, or 25. We all have a number whether we'll admit it or not. Mine is obviously less than 21.


Now, if we're getting a free bike, I'll take one of these:

http://www.confederate.com/images/machines_hellcat_side.gif

[fas]

If I'm getting a free bike? Neither. BTW, Have you ridden either?

Interesting the Yamaha FJR owner site has 3,000+ members, we have 10,869 today. Price being equal, I still take the GT. The rice burner is OK. The GT is telepathic and so easy to adapt for load and passenger changes. I'm not anti-Asian products, own a Scion tC and a Toyota Celicia GT-S. Rode two Kaws in the past and loved them for what they offered back then.;) To me the new GT has so much to offer as others have articulated so well here. Interesting how different the site membership numbers are. I hope BMW is making a ton so they keep investing in better tech for safer, faster, more reliable rides. Kinda funny how the Yama 2007 site talks about their new frame. Those broken frame wheelie and stoppie kids may have made a point to Yama.

[messenger13]

I still contend that any realistic comparison between the two bikes must include price, it is part of the equation.I guess that's where you and I are different Dave. I never NEVER even considered the price difference between the GT and FJR. So I guess it price was not part of my equation.

But wait a minute! If money is part of the equation, why didn't YOU buy a Concours over the FJR? The current Connie is at least $5K cheaper than the FJR. Dave...you've been had! :p

[hoog62]

If your talking about fjrforum.com, it has only been in existence for 18 months, and is specific to a single model. This site is much older, and caters to all BMW types. So, what is your point?

&

Rice burner? Is that all you got?

[hoog62]

I guess that's where you and I are different Dave. I never NEVER even considered the price difference between the GT and FJR. So I guess it price was not part of my equation.

But wait a minute! If money is part of the equation, why didn't YOU buy a Concours over the FJR? The current Connie is at least $5K cheaper than the FJR. Dave...you've been had! :p

I'll spell it slowly...V A L U E.

[messenger13]

Seeing how much fun this thread is...I think it would be even more fun if I was to buy the new Concours14 in a year or two, then stick around to rub it in everyone's face. :p

And who said "rice burner"? I haven't seen any Beemers win the MotoGP lately. Have you Dave?

[messenger13]

I'll spell it slowly...V A L U E.Are you saying that the current Concours isn't a better V A L U E than the FJR?! You're nutz! It is the best V A L U E on the road. (I just don't want it in my garage.)

[hoog62]

Are you saying that the current Concours isn't a better V A L U E than the FJR?! You're nutz! It is the best V A L U E on the road. (I just don't want it in my garage.)


Dude, when's the last time you rode one of those things? The FJR is easily worth 4K more than the Connie. The GT is not worth the 8K bump IMO. Had the GT come in at 18K as equipped I would have given it serious consideration, and that is still 5K more than I paid for the FJR. If (or should I say when) the new LT comes in at 26K, I might just give the FJR to my kid and replace my current LT with a lightly used GT. Depends on what else is on the market at the time.

[hoog62]

They won the Boxer Cup. ;)

[messenger13]

Dude, when's the last time you rode one of those things? The FJR is easily worth 4K more than the Connie. The GT is not worth the 8K bump IMO. Had the GT come in at 18K as equipped I would have given it serious consideration, and that is still 5K more than I paid for the FJR. If (or should I say when) the new LT comes in at 26K, I might just give the FJR to my kid and replace my current LT with a lightly used GT. Depends on what else is on the market at the time.I didn't pay much more than that for my GT, fully loaded.


They won the Boxer Cup. ;)Oh! I forgot! :sleep:

[jgburns]

The GT! Ride it for a season, sell it and buy a GS. ;)

[cccpastorjack]

...I might just give the FJR to my kid and replace my current LT with a lightly used GT. Depends on what else is on the market at the time.


Already thinking about replacing it with a GT... You know, when you compromise, deep inside there's always a longing...a wondering about how it must be to own the best. :D

[cccpastorjack]

...This thread is SO much fun! Quite the antagonist...aren't I? :histerica

[hoog62]

Already thinking about replacing it with a GT... You know, when you compromise, deep inside there's always a longing...a wondering about how it must be to own the best. :D


Jack, put down the glass and back away from the Kool Aid.

[cccpastorjack]

Jack, put down the glass and back away from the Kool Aid.


...I did drink. It wasn't good. Hey, all this is in fun. The bottom line...everyone should ride what they are comfortable with. Right?
And anyways...one day...one day....a GT!!!!

[grifscoots]

I might just give the FJR to my kid and replace my current LT with a lightly used GT.

That might be a problem, it's sooooo much fun to wring these thangs out.

[messenger13]

That might be a problem, it's sooooo much fun to wring these thangs out.Yepperz. Mine was wrung out at 47 miles! :D Now at over 12K, she's stronger than ever.

But dag I hope this snow goes away soon. I guess me and the boy will have to tear up some more snow tomorrow on the ATVs. :D

[meese]

Jack, put down the glass and back away from the Kool Aid.Nah, I think he's just wearing the Joe name tag. ;)

[mjac]

Would the free GT come with a spare rear drive?

http://www.k-bikes.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6371&highlight=Rear+drive+failure

[messenger13]

Would the free GT come with a spare rear drive?But you're not going to list the known issues of the FJR? Interesting...

Or, are you under the influence that the FJR is mechanically flawless? :confused:

And for the record, 45K on my LT...rear drive status: Just fine. :)
12.5K on my GT...rear drive status: Just fine. :)

[mjac]

But you're not going to list the known issues of the FJR? Interesting...

Nope. I'll leave that in your capable hands. Besides, its been done already in this thread, why waste the bandwidth?
I posted the link merely for the list's info. But since you have known about the story since Sept, the info is nothing new to you is it? It is interesting however that a search for "GT rear drive failure" on this board does not return anything. Could it be no one wanted to bring it up and tarnish the otherwise glowing GT praise?


Or, are you under the influence that the FJR is mechanically flawless? :confused:

No need for me to be influenced by anything, especially by anyone who does not have one. My personal experience with my own FJR is enough. That and the research I did prior to purchasing it. I bought it warts and all, insignificant as they are to me.

And for the record, 45K on my LT...rear drive status: Just fine. :)
12.5K on my GT...rear drive status: Just fine. :)

Ditto for my LT and FJR, although my mileage is greater :)

[bmwhd]

But you're not going to list the known issues of the FJR? Interesting...

Or, are you under the influence that the FJR is mechanically flawless? :confused:

And for the record, 45K on my LT...rear drive status: Just fine. :)
12.5K on my GT...rear drive status: Just fine. :)


That's because there are no known issues with the '06 FJR (mechanical, I mean). The '06 and later valve guides fixed the very, very rare problem some earlier FJRs had in that area. Other than that, bullet proof.

[messenger13]

That's because there are no known issues with the '06 FJR (mechanical, I mean). The '06 and later valve guides fixed the very, very rare problem some earlier FJRs had in that area. Other than that, bullet proof.From everything I've experienced Todd, it doesn't surprise me that the FJR riders aren't having any mechanical issues. You guys don't ever go past 3 or 4K rpm, do ya?! :rotf: I'll be in Texas next April. Let's do some riding in the Hill Country, and you can prove me wrong. http://www.r1-forum.com/forums/images/smilies/yesnod.gif

On a more serious note...
The Yamaha R1 is as bullet-proof as a sportbike can get. And if the FJR is anything like it, (which I'm sure it is VERY similar), than it comes as no surprise to me that it's as bullet-proof as the R1. I only wish I (and my wife) liked it more. It would've saved me thousands. :(

[grifscoots]

Would the free GT come with a spare rear drive?

http://www.k-bikes.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6371&highlight=Rear+drive+failure

I believe that rear drive booger on that GT ended up being a rear drive that never was torqued correctly. Or, was that another one? I don't remember, but I remember the issue.
I do know that BMW has worked real hard to put the rear drive issue to bed. What kind of oil should I use in my rear drive?:rotf:

And why is it so bad that we love our bikes? You love yours, don't you?

[bmwhd]

And why is it so bad that we love our bikes? You love yours, don't you?

Who said you shouldn't? I think you'll find me on record as a fan of the GT too.

Having said that, it's a bit unusual to have two bikes be so similar on paper (I'm talking basic weight, hp, size, purpose, etc.) that are so far apart in price. It makes for a fun discussion given that most of us here could in fact have had either.

[messenger13]

Having said that, it's a bit unusual to have two bikes be so similar on paper (I'm talking basic weight, hp, size, purpose, etc.) that are so far apart in price. It makes for a fun discussion given that most of us here could in fact have had either.What I think is "unusual" is the fact that, with all of the technological advances that the GT holds over the FJR, y'all are still confused at the price difference. ESA, Cruise Control, etc., etc...and, it's a BMW. :bmw: 'Nuff said! :p

What's just as "unusual" is that you were able to justify the increased cost of an LT over a Wing. But you can't "get there" when comparing your FJR to a GT.


Jeez o pete...why do I keep getting sucked into this debate? Oh yea, that's right! Cuz it's fun! :D

[cccpastorjack]

Just as I thought...if cost wasn't an issue, everyone would pick the GT over the FJR. That means, machine compared to machine, the GT is superior! :bmw:

[hoog62]

...and, it's a BMW. :bmw:


...because if that really means something to you, well...

'Nuff said! :p

[Steve_R]

They won the Boxer Cup. ;) They also won this (http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/etc/utils.jsp?t=articles&idx=6).

[bobmin]

Looks like I came into this a little late, but if it's free I'll take the RT. What, that wasn't one of the choices? How come?

:stir:

[messenger13]

Looks like I came into this a little late, but if it's free I'll take the RT. What, that wasn't one of the choices? How come?

:stir:Because we're talking about SPORT-TOURERS here. Not those wannabe touring bikes that old men ride and only think they are sporty. Even BMW classifies the RT as a "Touring" bike. :p

Funny though...now that I think about it. I had no problem getting an RT up on one wheel at 50mph. Surely that qualifies them a leetle. ;)

(NOW who's stirring the pot?!) :D

[bmwhd]

What I think is "unusual" is the fact that, with all of the technological advances that the GT holds over the FJR, y'all are still confused at the price difference. ESA, Cruise Control, etc., etc...and, it's a BMW. :bmw: 'Nuff said! :p

What's just as "unusual" is that you were able to justify the increased cost of an LT over a Wing. But you can't "get there" when comparing your FJR to a GT.


Jeez o pete...why do I keep getting sucked into this debate? Oh yea, that's right! Cuz it's fun! :D

All this has been hashed about a number of times but since you asked :D

While the $8K I saved was nice, for me the choice was MUCH more heavily weighted by the dealer situation here where I live and ride. The two BMW dealer choices I have both suck. Period. While I do tend to do my own work, dealer support is important to me.

Another huge factor for me was looks. I know, very, very subjective but I just don't care for the looks of the GT. Call me shallow and vain but that mattered to me. Ergos also played a part. My fat ass just felt more at ease on the FJR.

On the other hand, load rating and charging system output were not high on my personal list. Two other good reasons to buy a GT over an FJR.

So there you go. Not a dang thing wrong with either bike, just what matters most to you.

[messenger13]

Finally! A good, solid argument. :D

But I will debate you til the cows come home that you did NOT pay $8K less than I paid for a fully-loaded '06 GT. Unless yours is stripped, or a demo bike . . . maybe.

(I am not at liberty to tell you what I paid publicly. PM me if you want to talk turkey...and you have to pinkie swear. :D)

[bmwhd]

Finally! A good, solid argument. :D

But I will debate you til the cows come home that you did NOT pay $8K less than I paid for a fully-loaded '06 GT. Unless yours is stripped, or a demo bike . . . maybe.

(I am not at liberty to tell you what I paid publicly. PM me if you want to talk turkey...and you have to pinkie swear. :D)

Well, of course deals can be had on both bikes. I was just going by what's published.

Several Yam dealers are currently on record as offering the '07 FJR1300A (MSRP $13,799) OTD for $11,779.

MSRP on the '06 GTs that were on the floor here in the DFW area was $20,385 and no deals were being made at the time I bought so OTD price was >$8K different. But that's neither here nor there since price wasn't the deciding factor for either of us.

[bobmin]

Because we're talking about SPORT-TOURERS here. Not those wannabe touring bikes that old men ride and only think they are sporty. Even BMW classifies the RT as a "Touring" bike. :p

:D


Huh. That's not what the writers of the British mag Bike thought when they tested four SPORT TOURERS and the run-away winner was the RT. The other three by the way were the ST1300, the FJR and the new GT.

Sorry, but unless you're obsessed with horsepower you can't really use, the RT is the best all round sport touring bike for the roads that REAL sport tourers ride on.

[messenger13]

Sorry, but unless you're obsessed with horsepower you can't really use, the RT is the best all round sport touring bike for the roads that REAL sport tourers ride on.I can only assume that the "min" in your nickname stands for "minimum". :rotf:

Truth be told, I wish the GT had more HP! http://www.r1-forum.com/forums/images/smilies/yesnod.gif But if you can't handle the 152 that it has, it's probably best for all of us that you stay on that RT.

Here's an idea. Come join us next May on the Cambria Weekend Ride (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17234), and I'll show you the difference between my GT and your RT. Unless that's too far for you. It's only about 3K miles for me...but I'll be there. :cool:

[bobmin]

I can only assume that the "min" in your nickname stands for "minimum". :rotf:

Truth be told, I wish the GT had more HP! http://www.r1-forum.com/forums/images/smilies/yesnod.gif But if you can't handle the 152 that it has, it's probably best for all of us that you stay on that RT.

Here's an idea. Come join us next May on the Cambria Weekend Ride (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17234), and I'll show you the difference between my GT and your RT. Unless that's too far for you. It's only about 3K miles for me...but I'll be there. :cool:

Joe, Joe, Joe. Now you've hurt my feelings, making fun of my name. Man, that hurt.

Cambria sounds like fun, I've had good times on Hwy 1; it's been awhile since I've been on the South side of SF. You paying the tickets?

If you want a really good ride on MY roads, join us in John Day Oregon in June for the Chief Joseph Rally. Minimal state trooper coverage on the back roads, just watch out for deer.

http://www.bmwro.org/activities.html

[messenger13]

Joe, Joe, Joe. Now you've hurt my feelings, making fun of my name. Man, that hurt.

Cambria sounds like fun, I've had good times on Hwy 1; it's been awhile since I've been on the South side of SF. You paying the tickets?Now now there big guy... Let me give ya a hug. http://www.bigbikeworld.com/forum/smileys/smiley31.gif

Tickets? What tickets? You know the drill. I don't hafta to outrun the LEO. I just hafta outrun . . . you! :D

[Randy]

Because we're talking about SPORT-TOURERS here. Not those wannabe touring bikes that old men ride and only think they are sporty. Even BMW classifies the RT as a "Touring" bike. :p

Funny though...now that I think about it. I had no problem getting an RT up on one wheel at 50mph. Surely that qualifies them a leetle. ;)

(NOW who's stirring the pot?!) :DJoe;

I really, REALLY hate to get in the middle of this one, but...

Have you ridden an RT for any amount of time? You know I love the LT and the older RS and GT and really love the new S and GT. Michelle had a 2005 R1200RT and I put several thousand miles on the bike. It is absolutely a Sport-Tourer. Hers had ESA, cruise control, a radio and 7.1 gal fuel capacity. While I have never been a huge fan of the boxer engine, the newest Hex-Head is a very capable power plant. Utterly simple to work on, same baggage as the GT, less weight, better fuel mileage and range are great attributes for a Sport Tourer. While the GT has it on smoothness and power, the RT is very comfortable and nimble. Don't knock it until you have spent some miles in the saddle.

Of course, I have to admit that my new GS is making me much more appreciative of the 'lowly' boxer.

http://randy.bmwlt.net/QV7F0064sm.jpg

[bobmin]

Thanks for chiming in Randy. Joe was starting to wear me down, I was thinking the only way out was to race him. Of course then I'd just borrow my freind's GSXR1000 which must be an even better sports tourer than the GT since it's faster. Atleast that how it appears that Joe judges the competency of a sport tourer.

[messenger13]

I only rode the RT for 31 miles, but I hated 29.9 of them. (The other 0.1 miles I had the front tire off the ground. ;)) Having said that, I rode a GS for 15 miles at the GA Mountain Rally, and loved every second. So, I guess it's not the motor that I don't like...it's just the Boxer in an RT that doesn't float my boat. That's my story, and I'm stickin' to it.

Love the GS man. Very sweet!

[messenger13]

Thanks for chiming in Randy. Joe was starting to wear me down, I was thinking the only way out was to race him. Of course then I'd just borrow my freind's GSXR1000 which must be an even better sports tourer than the GT since it's faster. Atleast that how it appears that Joe judges the competency of a sport tourer.Had a Ninja ZX-11 that was FASTER than my GT. But it was more sport than tourer. The Gixxer is a pure sportbike. You know it, I know it.

Happy?

[Randy]

Love the GS man. Very sweet!Thanks.

So do I. I am totally impressed with the quality of assembly, the engineering and the function of this bike.

We'll see how it likes the Arctic Circle this June ;)

[tmgs]

baggage as the GT, less weight, better fuel mileage and range are great attributes for a Sport Tourer.
http://randy.bmwlt.net/QV7F0064sm.jpg

Sweet ride <g>, your opinion will change on the gas mileage of the GSA though real quick, My LT gets better mileage at 80-85 mph in fact the Lt gets better mileage than my GSA all around so far, the SO's GS does do better mpg than the GSA on the interstate , but i got her beat on the range department (well till she upgrades her fuel capacity <g>)


Tom

[Randy]

Sweet ride <g>, your opinion will change on the gas mileage of the GSA though real quick, My LT gets better mileage at 80-85 mph in fact the Lt gets better mileage than my GSA all around so far, the SO's GS does do better mpg than the GSA on the interstate , but i got her beat on the range department (well till she upgrades her fuel capacity <g>)


TomI was referring more to the RT. I was getting well over 50mpg on it and Michelle was approaching 60mpg. I ride a LOT harder than she does.

I know the GSA will not be as good, but my first tank, mostly around town, was a little over 42mog. I don't baby an engine while breaking it in, so I am expecting the GSA to to end up in the high 40's, if it trends like all of my other bikes.

[tmgs]

I was referring more to the RT. I was getting well over 50mpg on it and Michelle was approaching 60mpg. I ride a LOT harder than she does.


ahh I didn't catch that

I know the GSA will not be as good, but my first tank, mostly around town, was a little over 42mog. I don't baby an engine while breaking it in, so I am expecting the GSA to to end up in the high 40's, if it trends like all of my other bikes.


I'm getting right at 40 around the hills here maybe a little more at times, I really haven't rode it that much yet up here. On the interstate at 80-85 I get 34mpg my GSA has right at 3k miles on it now, Karens GS gets better mileage at those same speeds on the interstate. Maybe it will get better as it breaks in but with close to 3k on it now, I would assume it's as good as it's going to get

I'm enjoying the GSA up here though, wow it is so light compared to anything I have rode in years!, I did take my LT to fl this last trip, it is still the finest touring bike yyou could ask for

[jayjacobson]

All this talk about the FJR's...I have one question to pose:

You place both bikes side by side...brand new...both bikes fully loaded...you can choose either bike and it's totally free. Which one do you choose?

That decision would not take me even a millisecond! The GT wins hands down.

NOW -- WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE??? and PLEASE don't discuss cost. EITHER ONE IS FREE...Which do you choose???
This one's easy, Jack......Even a co-village idiot like me can figure this one out! GT in a heartbeat.