New GT vs LT Survey/Poll

[jpalamaro]

K1200LT vs K1200GT Survey/Poll

[zippy_gg]

I want to try the GT with my SO in the back to evaluate the possibility of replacing my LT, but that is not an option in your poll...

[jpalamaro]

I want to try the GT with my SO in the back to evaluate the possibility of replacing my LT, but that is not an option in your poll...

You are right and that's why Zogby and Gallup get the big bucks. But, you can vote later.http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/images/icons/icon10.gif

[jpalamaro]

This data was/is of interest to me as I personally (IMO) think that LT riders are the GT's largest source of customers and/or represent the greatest potential.

This is an opinion, not a statement of fact.

[eljeffe]

Gilles/John,

I added that last option to handle the case where you are considering a GT, but haven't purchased one yet.

[zippy_gg]

Thanks Jeffe! I just voted!;)

[jpalamaro]

Thank Jeff, I didn't get there in time to do the edit! Zogby and Gallup thank you also!

[meese]

Gilles, when I get mine sorted for two-up touring you and Kathy can try it out. :)

[RLM]

The biggest issue I have is wind noise. On my LT I am very well protected from the elements, especially in the cold, 25 degrees or lower. I have only tidden a GT on a 5 mile test ride. I love the GT's engine and handling but how is it for a 500 to 600 mile day ride.
Thanks in advance for the info.
Rich

[meese]

The biggest issue I have is wind noise . . . how is it for a 500 to 600 mile day ride.I picked up my GT on Tuesday, and by Friday I had 1,250 miles on it ranging from 68 degrees and sunny to 24 degrees and watching for ice. In typical BMW style, the stock windshield sucks. I told the dealer "don't even mount it, just leave it in the wrapping" and brought a Cee Bailey windshield with when I picked up the bike. I ran a Cee Bailey on my LT for years and it also made a huge improvement there.

Having said that, The GT is a skinnier bike. You will get more wind on your arms and around the sides. But that power band sure makes up for a lot of the little things. ;)

[grifscoots]

I picked up my GT on Tuesday, and by Friday I had 1,250 miles on it ranging from 68 degrees and sunny to 24 degrees and watching for ice. In typical BMW style, the stock windshield sucks. I told the dealer "don't even mount it, just leave it in the wrapping" and brought a Cee Bailey windshield with when I picked up the bike. I ran a Cee Bailey on my LT for years and it also made a huge improvement there.

Having said that, The GT is a skinnier bike. You will get more wind on your arms and around the sides. But that power band sure makes up for a lot of the little things. ;)

You have a beeg 10-4 from over here.

[ibbones]

You have a beeg 10-4 from over here.

No, don't hold back, tell us what you really think!!

[belsps]

I traded my LT 2006 last october,and bought the new GT not sorry for the move but
the stock windshield really sucks! and I don't like the wind I get on my arms but apart this, the GT is a great bike and a real pleasure to handle.
I'll probably opt for the CB windshield maybe it will cure the wind problem.

[RMoore007]

I traded my LT 2006 last october,and bought the new GT not sorry for the move but
the stock windshield really sucks! and I don't like the wind I get on my arms but apart this, the GT is a great bike and a real pleasure to handle.
I'll probably opt for the CB windshield maybe it will cure the wind problem.
My +4+2 CB screen is about 80-90% better than the stock tall shield but I here the +4+3 CB screen is even better on the arms. I believe Joe has the latter and really likes it. hth:)

[messenger13]

I like my +4+3 . . . sure. But the arms still get wet in a downpour. No big deal with the right gear though. And everyone is wearing good gear, aren't they?!?! :D

[belsps]

Well I guess driving a bike does have its inconvenience when its raining but what a heck thats also part of the fun isn't.
Well it seems that the +4+3 will do the trick.
Thanks for the tip.

[Colyn]

I have a twopart question about the new GT ... I own a 2005 LT and a 2005 GT ... did 30,000 kms on each of them.

On the GT I installed the Urban Barbacks and that cured my one and only gripe about the 05 GT.

I have taken the new GT out on demo runs three times now. Apart from that vibration at around 7,000 rpm the bike is good and I like the response and the handling is great here in the mountains.

Now for my problem ... the footpegs are quite high and that means my knees need to bend quite a lot more than on the LT and the old GT. Now I am 55 years old and 5'11" and weighs 106kg ... purely from a reality point of view it is not good to sit with bent knees for long periods of time because Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a damn good possibility at my age. I had a good look at the peg mounting and it is not like on the opld GT where the PEG and Brakes/Gearshift clusters are mounted on a plate and allows for customisation. The new GT these mountings are part of the frame.

1. Has anybody else experienced the peg height as an issue ?
2. Is there anything available to fix it ?

My typical riding would consist of 6 to 10 days of around 1,000 kms per day. That means at least 10 hours in the saddle every day.

[XMagnaRider]

Another option not included:
I tried both the LT and the GT, and bought a GT. The LT is a very good motorcycle, but I prefer the GT.

To answer Colyn's questions:
1. Before I bought the GT, I thought that it would need the pegs lowered, based on the riding position of my previous motorcycle (1986 Honda Magna). After riding the GT for five months, I have decided that I am happy with the factory peg position. Your concerns about DVT are valid, but aren't they true for any riding position as well as airplane and car seats, too? Isn't the best solution to take a break, walk around, and stretch your legs from time to time?

2. There are peg lowering kits for the GT. Here is one example from Pirate's Lair: http://piratesk12site.net/PegGTlow.htm

They also have peg lowering kits for the passenger seat, and a shift-lever extension, should you need it.

[Colyn]

Thank you XmagnaRider ... I have bought Urban Barbacks from Pirates Lair previously so I know they do deliver here in South Africa.

[meese]

I also bought a set of the peg extenders for the GT. They actually give more leg room than on a stock LT. I've since pulled them off, but I did like them for extended trips. If someone's interested in trying them, I can make you a good deal. :)

[Bruce_Yates]

What about highway pegs for the GT? Is there anything akin to J-pegs or Ottomans? Any links/photos?

[cccpastorjack]

What about highway pegs for the GT? Is there anything akin to J-pegs or Ottomans? Any links/photos?



Surely you jest???? While we're at it, let's just install some pull-backs and a sissy bar! :D

Just joking, but the GT's nature IS a sport-tourer!

[Bruce_Yates]

Surely you jest???? While we're at it, let's just install some pull-backs and a sissy bar! :D

Just joking, but the GT's nature IS a sport-tourer!

I realize that. I've actually ridden my LT (not to mention my Aprilia) with sport bikes in twisties and kept up with or beaten most of them (throwing peg sparks all the way), so I appreciate the "sport" in sport-tourer. But on long stretches of slab I like to be able to stretch my legs out. Having had DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in one of my legs, I prefer to err on the side of caution (and comfort)...

[messenger13]

I realize that. I've actually ridden my LT with sport bikes in twisties and kept up with or beaten most of them (throwing peg sparks all the way), so I appreciate the "sport" in sport-tourer. But on long stretches of slab I like to be able to stretch my legs out. Having had DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in one of my legs, I prefer to err on the side of caution (and comfort)... I've yet to have an LT be able to keep up with me on my GT. And I've ridden with some FAST LT riders. Need I name names? If a sportbike rider can't keep up with an LT, than that rider is a poser. Come on down to Cambria Bruce, and prove me wrong. :) And I'm riding just a lame ol' sport-tourer.

As for highway pegs on the new GT . . . well . . . rumor had it that one guy was designing a set. But than a bunch of us GT owners got together and snuffed him out! I hear tale now that he's making parts for the FJR these days. :D

As for your DVT...all joking aside I'm sorry to hear about that. I pray that never happens to me.

[grifscoots]

I realize that. I've actually ridden my LT (not to mention my Aprilia) with sport bikes in twisties and kept up with or beaten most of them (throwing peg sparks all the way), so I appreciate the "sport" in sport-tourer. But on long stretches of slab I like to be able to stretch my legs out. Having had DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in one of my legs, I prefer to err on the side of caution (and comfort)...Hey Bruce, contact Ken Meese. He has an idear....

[meese]

Just joking, but the GT's nature IS a sport-tourer!All depends on your definition of sport-touring. Sometimes, the best roads just happen to be a state or two away. :D

[meese]

Hey Bruce, good to hear from you again. :)

Pay no attention to the SPORT-touring crowd. If they really wanted to SPORT tour, they'd have bought a K1200S. Or a Hayabusa with soft saddlebags. :D

No highway pegs for the GT yet. I found some likely mounting points, but haven't had time to do the metalwork yet. With 34K on my '07, I'm too busy riding to be working on it. :D

Also, I have a bunch of guys lining up for when I start making more light brackets, so I guess I gotta get busy.

As for your other ergonomic questions, the GT can be made just as sit-up comfortable as the LT. The Suburban Machinery Bar Backs add an inch rearward and 3/4" height. And the Verholen peg extenders with the seat in the high position actually gives slightly more leg room than the LT, though at the cost of some reduced lean angle.

Wish I had time to head up your way and let you check out my K1200RT. :D

[messenger13]

All depends on your definition of sport-touring. Sometimes, the best roads just happen to be a state or two away. :DI don't understand why one needs highway pegs to get to a road that's a state or two away. If that's true, then I'm totally screwed! I better sell this puppie and get a Wing quick!

[meese]

If your setup works for your riding style, that's cool. But everyone's different, and has different needs and expectations.

I'm not suggesting that BMW include highway pegs from the factory, or that everyone must install them and use them. Nor am I suggesting that we all must ride the bike pure and unadulterated, as the Fatherland Engineers intended.

We all have choices here, whether it's who to vote for, what to believe in, or what to ride. That's the beauty of a free society. So offering your own opinions or experiences up to those who ask is part of free speech. But forcing your own definitions on others, or telling them that their choices are wrong or just plain stupid is, well, just plain stupid. :)

So I'll be glad to ride with you on whatever road we happen to meet on. You may get there 0.2 of a second ahead of me, or I may get there ahead of you. But I guarantee I'll be having as much fun as you are, which is all that really matters.

[SoberBiker]

K1200LT vs K1200GT Survey/PollWell...I have tried to get around the issuses I have with the GT (ergonomics) for a year, but no matter what I do to try and alleviate the pain this bike gives my shoulder, I am going to have to give it up. I am going in Weds to get the BBS situation looked at and going to talk trade back to the LT.

[Stixx]

When I feel the need for highway pegs I just prop my feet up on the jugs and give em a rest. Not much good in summer but it's great in the winter. LOL :histerica

[bonafidebob]

I guess this is a LT-heavy site, but I still think you need a "looked at the LT but got a GT instead" category... I've done luxury touring on my GT from the start. :)

[Steve_R]

I guess this is a LT-heavy site, but I still think you need a "looked at the LT but got a GT instead" category... I've done luxury touring on my GT from the start. :)Actually this is a BMW heavy site, else you wouldn't have a forum just for the GT. JMNSHO. :D

[CyberAngel]

Hayabusa => K1300GT
why? 945W alternator power for warm suite power (2 persons)

[B737-700]

I purchased a 2008 GT late August and sold my 2005 LT today, October 04, 2008. Fortunately my LT has been purchased by an acquaintance who is very excited about his "new" LT. I shall miss the LT as it is, in my opinion, the prettiest motorcycle, bar none, and as a highway cruiser it can not be faulted.

Why did I abandon the LT in favour of the GT. I found the LT just too much motorcycle for me. I found it difficult to handle at slow speeds and in tight quarters. Simply put, the LT controlled me, as opposed to me controlling it. I am, on the other hand, not intimidated by the GT.

Both the LT and GT certainly qualify as touring bikes but that is where similarities end. It is a bit like comparing a Bentley and a Ferrari as touring cars. Both can be driven all day but the driving experience is quite different. The LT, with all it's creature comforts, leaves one very relaxed at the end of a long highway trip. The GT, on the other hand, provides a day-long adrenalin rush and sometimes leaves one a little on edge as the sun sets. The GT is much better suited for those hairpin mountain roads as it literally seems to instinctively know when it is time to lean into the corners. The LT on the other hand needs to be sometimes pushed through the curves.

I do miss the LT entertainment system and it's superb fairing design, that keeps one drier and more comfortable in inclement weather. Also, I really miss the hydraulic centre stand. My wife especially misses the riding comfort afforded to the rear passenger.

I guess if I could have afforded to keep both bikes, I would have done so.

[fields]

New to the forum. Bought a used 06 K1200LT in U.S. April 2008. Just sold it and made a couple grand profit. Now deciding on a 09 GT or RT. Sold the LT cause Im 42 yrs old, didnt have a bike for 22 years, and didn't consider it being too conservative. LT was a dream and for me easy to handle. Never dropped it - surprised?

Question - GT 4 cyl likely more smooth than RT boxer. RT likely better wind protection than GT. GT sexier than RT. RT probably more comfortable for back seater than GT(more stop and go romps in the grass?) GT costs more than RT. Deprectiation probably a non-issue.

All these and more considered, does the GT cause more fatigue than it's worth for the extra dough? I ride causally around the area and a few road trips, up to 500 to 700 Ontario Canada miles per month. This will be an expensive 5 - 10 year bike for me. BMW has me hooked on engineering (dont tell me about the bad stuff - read all about it)

Can one of you :bmw: enlighten me if the GT will be worth the extra investment of the two?

[XMagnaRider]

New to the forum. Bought a used 06 K1200LT in U.S. April 2008. Just sold it and made a couple grand profit. Now deciding on a 09 GT or RT. Sold the LT cause Im 42 yrs old, didnt have a bike for 22 years, and didn't consider it being too conservative. LT was a dream and for me easy to handle. Never dropped it - surprised?

Question - GT 4 cyl likely more smooth than RT boxer. RT likely better wind protection than GT. GT sexier than RT. RT probably more comfortable for back seater than GT(more stop and go romps in the grass?) GT costs more than RT. Deprectiation probably a non-issue.

All these and more considered, does the GT cause more fatigue than it's worth for the extra dough? I ride causally around the area and a few road trips, up to 500 to 700 Ontario Canada miles per month. This will be an expensive 5 - 10 year bike for me. BMW has me hooked on engineering (dont tell me about the bad stuff - read all about it)

Can one of you :bmw: enlighten me if the GT will be worth the extra investment of the two?
This is a personal decision for you. You seem to know all the pros and cons. I bought a GT over the RT, and I am happy that I did. There are several GT vs. RT threads here, www.k-bikes.com, and at www.i-bmw.com. You may want to read them.

The best thing to do is try them both and then decide. If you can test ride or rent each one for a day or two, that would be even better than short test rides from the dealer. The cost of a few days of bike rentals pales in comparison to the cost of a new GT or RT.

[bonafidebob]

Can one of you :bmw: enlighten me if the GT will be worth the extra investment of the two?
I think so. I'm also 42, and came from another big sport-touring bike (Kawasaki GPZ1100). While the riding position is less 'sport' than the GPZ, the power and smoothness of the KGT can't be beat, and really in every important respect (acceleration, braking, turning, comfort) the KGT blows the GPZ away. I've done some touring on the R bikes too (rented one for 3 weeks in NZ), and it was a fine comfortable tourer, but it really doesn't compete with the KGT for 'sport'. Rawr!