LT Models

[beemer100]

I will soon be in the market for a used LT and was wondering about the LT line. I am aware of an LTC and an LTE and I think there are a couple of others. Can someone let me know which one is the most loaded/least loaded and what farkles are the nicest to look for on a used bike? I believe the intercom system is a big one. . .

I called MotorcycleServices.com this morning and verified their warranty and I think I will probably be going with them since I do not have to purchase the bike from a dealer to be able to obtain such warranty.

Thanks,

James
Fort Worth, Texas

Current ride: 92 Virago 750

[bob_menton]

LTE is the model that has the most from-BMW goodies, including BMW's intercom, Chicken Band radio and antenna, leather saddlebag and top case removable liners, and Garmin-manufactured GPS.

- Bob

[meese]

Hi James, welcome to the site.

This thread (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1149) has the answers you're looking for.

Also, there are several decent used LT's for sale in our Classifieds (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=20) forum, which is a good place to start looking.

[docwagner]

I know somebody can fill you in on specifics of the features of each model, but I'm not sure it matters too much. most of the differences were just add on equipment items which could be added on later by the dealer of as third party farkles. The main items are universal in a model year, for example all bikes had the same engine for that year, there were no engine options. In 05 the horsepower bumped up to 115 from 100 and the front suspension changed and I have heard good things about it. They also added an electric center stand and changed the front headlight and dash board. In 02 integrated brakes were added linking the front brake and rear brakes and somewhere in there was a change in the brake boost system.
IMHO, the most important things to look at are the major items that you feel strongly about, the linked brakes, improved rear bearing, horsepower, etc... and then pick the model year that gives you those things. Items like comm systems, GPS, CB and whatever can be added to any bike and you might like an after market vendor better than OEM.
I have an 01, never drove any other model year and I love it. I guess I don't know what I am missing with some of the improvements. My bike was barebones when I got it. I then customized it to my liking (and expense) and I am glad I did it that way. I suppose if I was looking for a new used bike I would look for a low mileage 05, especially with the 06's coming out. You would still get the warranty, but most of the initial depreciation would be paid for by the first owner. Most of the options available from BMW (like comm system stuff) are prewired anyway and aftermarket vendors will often integrate with them very well. My second choice would be an 03 or 04 mainly because of the warranty and the linked brakes might be important. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I would look for a black one, as we know this is the fastest color.
Good luck, hope this helps. I am sure someone will follow me with an entirely different viewpoint.

[STARFIGHTER]

DocWagner is right . Decide the options you MUST have and that'll tell you what model is for you.....
I HAD to have heated seats, grips, CD player, computer, alarm........GPS nice but optional. So I went looking for the LTC........
Can always add GPS

[beemer100]

Thanks guys for the help. I had been waffling between a GW and an LT and have come to the conclusion that BMW is the way for me. I was able to test drive an 05 with the wife on board about a year ago. It wasn't a long test ride but the handling was wonderful.

I will be on the lookout for some deals and have begun looking at the classified section here. From what I understand, the rear drive failure problem has been rectified on the 03 and newer models.

Ride safe,

James
Fort Worth, Texas
92 Virago 750

[Steve_R]

From what I understand, the rear drive failure problem has been rectified on the 03 and newer models.


So far that is true.