Rental BMW's Northwest?

[Tigarddave]

Hi everyone:

New to the forum. I keep going back and forth between the RT & LT. I was going to buy a 05 LT today with less than 8,000 miles until the freezing rain started (I know, I'm a wimp:)
Before I plunk down the $$$$ is there anyplace around the NW that rents BMW's??

I test road both the Rt and LT yesterday and loved both of them!
But, a longer ride would be great...
Any advice of where I could rent one at? (I'm in Wilsonville, just south of PDX, but would be more than willing traveling for a longer test ride).

Thanks in advance,

Dave

[MarkG]

I think the BMW dealer in Sacramento rents bikes. I couldn't find a rental in Washington last summer. There's also someplace in S. F. that rents BMWs.

[Tigarddave]

Thanks Mark, but I was hoping for Oregon or SW Washington...
Sac. would not be bad (except for getting there:), but SF??? Test a new bike around those crazy drivers??? :eek:
Anyone here know if someplace closer to PDX??

I think the BMW dealer in Sacramento rents bikes. I couldn't find a rental in Washington last summer. There's also someplace in S. F. that rents BMWs.

[AlaskaFish]

Dave, fixing to head out the door right now, but we will check with the local dealers here Tuesday and see if any of them will rent Bikes. I don't believe they do, but could be mistaken on that.

John

[Tigarddave]

Thanks John.

A longer ride would make me more comfortable with my choice-I think that someone else will pick up the 05 LT from Tigard BMW-I really is a nice bike-I am not used to seeing 3 year old bikes that still look that new.

I do not think I have ever spent so much time going between two vehicles like I have on these two. If my SO had not said that she would prefer to ride her own bike the choice would have been easier-the LT for two up touring-but if we both have bikes again....anything is open now! (Still want a tourer though)

On a different subject, I was reading about the ride to the coast-How often does the "local" group get together for rides?



Dave, fixing to head out the door right now, but we will check with the local dealers here Tuesday and see if any of them will rent Bikes. I don't believe they do, but could be mistaken on that.

John

[sanjaun2]

On a different subject, I was reading about the ride to the coast-How often does the "local" group get together for rides?
There is a fine group of gentlemen (and ladies) around the Portland area that get together quite often.

[AlaskaFish]

On a different subject, I was reading about the ride to the coast-How often does the "local" group get together for rides?
There is a fine group of gentlemen (and ladies) around the Portland area that get together quite often.
Dave, we also have some "Fine Gentlemen" from up North who not only join us on the rides, but even spark us into making the rides to begin with!
Huh Brian?
Watch here for our rides year round.

John

[artk50]

Better offset with another chowder run:) Of course I'll find something else from the menu.

I don't think any of the BMW dealers around here do rent. When I bought mine they didn't even really want me to take a test ride. Of course I did not have an endorsement either.

So I bought it and picked it up as it started raining. That was in November of 2003 and I'm still grinning every time I go for a ride.

I do believe that there would be a dilema if I was not expecting to ride 2 up on long trips though.

Once you decide on what you are going to get come on out and play.

[Tigarddave]

Thanks Art. I did some "net" searching and I could not find one either. I did note that Portland BMW has a couple of 07 RT's left over at $1,000 off.

I have been working with Tigard BMW (I work in Tigard), so I would feel bad if I bought from someone else..But, $1,000 IS a $1,000...
I wish the weather was better-it was 26 degrees when I left for work this morning-Not great bike weather in my book.
I tried to get into my old tour suit...guess my SO cooks too well! :rolleyes: Just my leather coat and jeans are not great this time of year either.

I have pretty much decided on the RT, my SO probably will only go with me on occasion, so the "need" for the LT is not their-But it sure seems like a newer (better) Wing to me..Probably a good thing that I did not ride the GT, or that might be in the running too. :dance:
Yup, dancing all over the place!!



Better offset with another chowder run:) Of course I'll find something else from the menu.

I don't think any of the BMW dealers around here do rent. When I bought mine they didn't even really want me to take a test ride. Of course I did not have an endorsement either.

So I bought it and picked it up as it started raining. That was in November of 2003 and I'm still grinning every time I go for a ride.

I do believe that there would be a dilema if I was not expecting to ride 2 up on long trips though.

Once you decide on what you are going to get come on out and play.

[reelman]

Thanks Art. I did some "net" searching and I could not find one either. I did note that Portland BMW has a couple of 07 RT's left over at $1,000 off.

I have been working with Tigard BMW (I work in Tigard), so I would feel bad if I bought from someone else..But, $1,000 IS a $1,000...
I wish the weather was better-it was 26 degrees when I left for work this morning-Not great bike weather in my book.
I tried to get into my old tour suit...guess my SO cooks too well! :rolleyes: Just my leather coat and jeans are not great this time of year either.

I have pretty much decided on the RT, my SO probably will only go with me on occasion, so the "need" for the LT is not their-But it sure seems like a newer (better) Wing to me..Probably a good thing that I did not ride the GT, or that might be in the running too. :dance:
Yup, dancing all over the place!!
Dave,

You might want to check out South Sound BMW - I received the following from them today regarding their Year End Sale.

Dan

Powersports dealerships often have previous model year inventory they need to sell as their new models get delivered from the manufacturer. South Sound BMW has plenty of 2008 models now, so we need to say goodbye to our remaining 2007 inventory.

Check the inventory below and see if there is a 2007 that fits your needs. If so, come to the store and talk with Wayne, Sean, or Stephen to see how much you can save. Unfortunately, BMW prohibits us from announcing a specific dollar off figure but I will guarantee the savings are substantial.

Keep in mind that the 2007 models and 2008 models are almost identical. The R1200RTs are the same color and the K1200GT retains two colors and changed one. The GS and GS Adventure do have color changes but who notices under all that proudly acquired dirt anyway?

Freight from Germany is going up too, so a 2007 can save you a little more $$ -perhaps the cost of a tank or two of gas.

I know many of you have been waiting for this - come take advantage of our year end close-out now.

Sincerely,

Marty Hamilton
Sales Manager

Super Deals on 2007 Models!

2 2007 F800S (1 Yellow, 1 Lahar Grey)

2 R1200RT (1 Silver, 1 Blue - demo)

1 K1200GT (Crystal grey Metallic)

1 G650X Moto

1 G650X Challenge

1 K1200S (Multi Color)

1 K1200R Sport (Demo)

1 R1200S (Demo)


There are dramatic savings to be had on each of these bikes as we need to make room for the 2008 models that arrive each day.

If you buy a K1200S, F800S, R1200S we will provide a 33% off pass for 2Fast Motorcycle Track Days & Instruction.



We are committed to providing you outstanding personal service. If you have any questions about our close-out sale, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,


Brendan Ferrer
General Manager
South Sound BMW

[Tigarddave]

Thanks Reelman!

Everyone here has been great!
I will check them out.
Dave

Dave,

You might want to check out South Sound BMW - I received the following from them today regarding their Year End Sale.

Dan

Powersports dealerships often have previous model year inventory they need to sell as their new models get delivered from the manufacturer. South Sound BMW has plenty of 2008 models now, so we need to say goodbye to our remaining 2007 inventory.

Check the inventory below and see if there is a 2007 that fits your needs. If so, come to the store and talk with Wayne, Sean, or Stephen to see how much you can save. Unfortunately, BMW prohibits us from announcing a specific dollar off figure but I will guarantee the savings are substantial.

Keep in mind that the 2007 models and 2008 models are almost identical. The R1200RTs are the same color and the K1200GT retains two colors and changed one. The GS and GS Adventure do have color changes but who notices under all that proudly acquired dirt anyway?

Freight from Germany is going up too, so a 2007 can save you a little more $$ -perhaps the cost of a tank or two of gas.

I know many of you have been waiting for this - come take advantage of our year end close-out now.

Sincerely,

Marty Hamilton
Sales Manager

Super Deals on 2007 Models!

2 2007 F800S (1 Yellow, 1 Lahar Grey)

2 R1200RT (1 Silver, 1 Blue - demo)

1 K1200GT (Crystal grey Metallic)

1 G650X Moto

1 G650X Challenge

1 K1200S (Multi Color)

1 K1200R Sport (Demo)

1 R1200S (Demo)


There are dramatic savings to be had on each of these bikes as we need to make room for the 2008 models that arrive each day.

If you buy a K1200S, F800S, R1200S we will provide a 33% off pass for 2Fast Motorcycle Track Days & Instruction.



We are committed to providing you outstanding personal service. If you have any questions about our close-out sale, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,


Brendan Ferrer
General Manager
South Sound BMW

[AlaskaFish]

Dave, sorry not to get back to you sooner, but sounds like my partners filled in with some details along with your own results. I would suggest making the rounds of all the local dealers (even South Sound, Salem, Eugene or Ride West are "local" as far as I am concerned!) and see not only who has the best price, but get some test rides out of the way on the different models.

Of course it would be nice to have a little nicer weather! And looking at Dan's input above, I find myself wondering if he is on the hunt for a different ride already. What say ya Dan?

John

[reelman]

And looking at Dan's input above, I find myself wondering if he is on the hunt for a different ride already. What say ya Dan?

John
Sorry John, but the stable is full here. Besides, a new ride would be very expensive. Especially with the cost of the resulting divorce. :D

I think that it is your turn anyway. Maybe a little dualsport looking for a new home?

Dan

[avonfloater]

Sorry John, but the stable is full here. Besides, a new ride would be very expensive. Especially with the cost of the resulting divorce. :D

I think that it is your turn anyway. Maybe a little dualsport looking for a new home?

Dan
I dunno, Dan - I thought I saw room in the garage. Oh yeah, I forgot about the divorce thing!

Denny

[artk50]

I'm a seasoned veteran on that subject. For me, the BMW is more of a sure bet that marriage has been:)

Of course I'm not a real stable guy I suppose.

[bflemingor]

Watch out for Portland Motorcycles. I have yet to go in there for anything & find they have it in stock. I had a service done there & took my LT to BMWOR (after they opened) to have the work done again. You want a Suzuk or Trumpet - they're probably OK.

I haven't seen a new Lt in PMC in the last two years.

Just me $0.02

[jwd98056]

It looks like Dave is on Marty's e-mail list like a lot of us in the region are. I got my LT through a private party but I get most of my parts and attend a number of the South Sound BMW events. I met Marty at an event and he talked me into getting on his e-mail list.

He occasionally sends out special price deals on motorcycles to the list that are better than anything in the store or on their web site. That's how I got my used 2005 R1200GS in November 2006. He had it marked down from the web site price and I haggled a little more when I got face to face :dance:.

November to February is definitely the right time of the year to shop for a BMW or probably any motorcycle. The dealers are dying to move anything off the floor they can.

Don't forget Craigslist either. That's how I found my 2000 LT with 6700 miles in December 2004. It was located about three miles from my home.

[dannyjvl]

With an appointment Ride West in Seattle will let you test drive a motorcycle for a couple of hours. I did it on an LT.

[AlaskaFish]

(Dave please excuse this temporary Hi-Jack)

Hey Dan, check out the new thread "A Disturbance in the Force?" It kind of relates to what you posted here!

John
Sorry John, but the stable is full here. Besides, a new ride would be very expensive. Especially with the cost of the resulting divorce. :D

I think that it is your turn anyway. Maybe a little dualsport looking for a new home?

Dan

[Tigarddave]

I just wanted to thank everyone here for all the help and suggestions.
You have been great! I am really lucky I found this site
I'm picking up my 2008 RT Sat. from BMWOR (Tigard)- :dance: They have been great to work with. (The leftover 07's did not have all the options I wanted)

I was going to get the shorter seat since I am "inseam challenged", but the salesman called me back and we got talking about custom seats and he said if I go that route not to bother with the lowered seat-the custom seat can be shortened using the stock pan.

I've got a couple of recommendations regarding MrEdsmotor.com in Albany-Have any of you used his seats?
He is a lot closer than tripping done to CA. for Corban
Hi everyone:

New to the forum. I keep going back and forth between the RT & LT. I was going to buy a 05 LT today with less than 8,000 miles until the freezing rain started (I know, I'm a wimp:)
Before I plunk down the $$$$ is there anyplace around the NW that rents BMW's??

I test road both the Rt and LT yesterday and loved both of them!
But, a longer ride would be great...
Any advice of where I could rent one at? (I'm in Wilsonville, just south of PDX, but would be more than willing traveling for a longer test ride).

Thanks in advance,

Dave

[artk50]

Brian had his seat customized at Rich's in Seattle. I had mine done at Chilhowee in Grants Pass http://www.chilhowee.net/I don't know if either of us would be overly enthusiastic to recommend either. I've not heard of the place that you are talking about.

I'd see if you don't grow into your stock saddle before changing it out. You might just be able to find a bunch of other things to buy before you need a seat:)

Let the customizing fun begin.

[artk50]

When do you get your new ride?

[Tigarddave]

Good advice,
My plan was to ride for a few weeks, determine where the failings are, then book a ride in appt-I learned years ago they fit much better if they can see your butt :cool: I may wait a while longer-but I'd like to get the new saddle before the good weather hits and I'm in pain......
I put down the $$ today, pick in up Saturday! I already have a buddy going with me- he's trailering my Wing for me, then off to his place in Salem then the Coast!

As I said in my other post you guys have all been great, Thanks to one and all!!!

PS I tried to post the URL for "Mredsmoto.com In Albany
CHeck it out and tell me what you think-someone here must have used him!?

Brian had his seat customized at Rich's in Seattle. I had mine done at Chilhowee in Grants Pass http://www.chilhowee.net/I don't know if either of us would be overly enthusiastic to recommend either. I've not heard of the place that you are talking about.

I'd see if you don't grow into your stock saddle before changing it out. You might just be able to find a bunch of other things to buy before you need a seat:)

Let the customizing fun begin.

[avonfloater]

Congrats, Dave. You'll love the ride. How was Tigard about letting you test ride the RT?

Denny

[Tigarddave]

Denny,
Not bad-I had went in last month and rode both the RT & the LT with the salesman, and also had a buddy come along too.
We had talked that I wanted a longer test ride and after we had chated and he found out that I used to teach the MSF course, have had bikes for 30 year -Including two Gold Wings he let me go solo today...I don't think that is standard policy though.
I was only gone 30-45 minutes but it was all that I needed.
Bill (Blacke) was my salesman and he was very good to work with-I would recomend him to anyone.


Congrats, Dave. You'll love the ride. How was Tigard about letting you test ride the RT?

Denny

[meese]

Congrats on the new wheels. :yeah:

I've got a couple of recommendations regarding MrEdsmotor.com in Albany-Have any of you used his seats?I haven't (Bill (Rocky) Mayer (http://billmayersaddles.com/) did my GT seat) but you may want to check with Mitch_Rider (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/member.php?u=351). Mr Ed's Moto (http://www.mredsmoto.com/) did the seat on his '06 GT and he's put a lot of miles on it since.

I agree that a ride-in with a custom seat maker is worth the trouble and expense if you do long days on the bike. Corbin and Sargent aren't truly custom seats, they're really just mass-manufactured replacement seats. They do work for some folks, but not nearly as well as a custom seat would.

[Tigarddave]

Thanks Ken!

Corban does do custom saddles, I did a ride in (central CA!) back in 1984, he custom fited me, the ex and brother all the same day.
I LOVED that seat.
I would prefer someone more local though-I'll check with Mitch_Rider,

Thanks for the info,

Congrats on the new wheels. :yeah:

I haven't (Bill (Rocky) Mayer (http://billmayersaddles.com/) did my GT seat) but you may want to check with Mitch_Rider (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/member.php?u=351). Mr Ed's Moto (http://www.mredsmoto.com/) did the seat on his '06 GT and he's put a lot of miles on it since.

I agree that a ride-in with a custom seat maker is worth the trouble and expense if you do long days on the bike. Corbin and Sargent aren't truly custom seats, they're really just mass-manufactured replacement seats. They do work for some folks, but not nearly as well as a custom seat would.