rented a GS and not sure

[mpillis]

Ok just got back from germany and rented a GS while there. The bike only had a couple thousand miles on it and I put about 1000 more on it. I thought I would like it more than I did especially after reading posts about how great it is. There were things I liked about the bike like how light it was compared to LT, handling in curves and on the autobahn, seat was comfortable, riding position was great. What I did not like was when I would crank down on the throttle in 1st thru 3rd gear it was very klacketty. I know it is a boxer motor but sheesh. It was especially noticable when I had the flip up helmet open. The bike had an akropovic exhaust on it and when I would let off the throttle quickly it would pop and backfire alot thru the exhaust. The clacking noise was so bad that I am wondering if there was something wrong with the bike. I was so worried about it I kept checking the oil. Anyway, I have small hands and found the grips to be too small around and found that after hours my hands were cramping. The left side luggage was seriously small due to cutout for exhaust, would have to add some type of top box, not a major problem.
I was disappointed because if I had really liked the bike I was going to sell my Harley and get one. If it wasn't for the clacking, I would get one because all the other stuff can be worked around.
well just my opinion and am not trying to take way from people who absolutely love their GS. Damnit I thought for sure I wanted one.

[ranks]

The boxer is not for everyone.
With that said, they do smooth out after 10-20k miles.

Also, valve adjustments make a big difference. If you get your valves done every 6k like the book says, they start to get a bit rough the last 2K miles. People who do their own valves tend to do them about every 3K.

[KMC1]

It sounds as though the bike you rode wasn't running properly.
They don't pop and backfire like that unless there are other things wrong. Jetting (if carburated), wrong EFI map, exhaust leak, valves out of adjustment etc.
If you are serious about a boxer, take one out for a test ride at a dealer. They really are pretty awesome from the limited amount of time I have spent on them. And waaaaaaaay cheaper/easier to own than a K engine.

[cali_beemer]

While I agree that the boxer isnt for everone, the popping sounds like it is becasue of the exhaust. The aftermarket will sometimes do that and it will get more poppy as the valves get out of adjustment so i have noticed. I would highly recomend that you try a 2004 1150. I had some of the same complaints that you mentioned when i rode a brand new 1200GS. I then went and rode an 1150GS and I must say that if you arent riding off road the 1150 seams to me a better choice. The slightly additioanl amount of weight the 1150 has makes it feel more stable in turns and better in crosswinds. The grips are larger in diameter and are more countoured. I noticed the 1200 seemed to be alot more of a buzzy motor. When I say that, it had a constant buzz pulsing throught the handlebars that left my entire arms numb. After 15-20minutes it was unbearable and it turned me away from the bike. The 1150 has some vibration but there is not a constant buzz like the 1200. To me the suspention of the 1150 in the back seemed to have better actuation and feels like you get full travel. The newer linkage of the 1200 felt more constricting and in turn felt more harsh than the 1150. I also recomended that you try a 2004 if you can. I say this becasue its the only year you could buy an 1150 with the dual spark motor (other than the adventure model 1150's offered in 05 and 06 as well). The dual spark, like the newer 1200 gets rid of all surging and is a huge improvement over the single spark 1150 bikes. I was all set to buy a 1200 model but in turn was turned off by the bike compared to riding an 1150. I now have a faithfull 2004 1150 that is an awesome bike to ride and more fun than anything I have ridden. The additinal power of the 1200 isnt needed to me and while it may not be new, the 1150 dual spark is the way to go. If I were to re-consider a 1200, I would try the adventure model as it is a bit heavier and then try adding grip puppies. Your popping issues I would say are almost 100 percent related tot he aftermarket exhaust and I have never had a stock exhaust give any terrible noise or pop.

[justlookin]

Interesting..
I test road a 1200GSA about a year ago, it sort of left me disappointed. It's hard to put a finger on why, but it just seemed uncomfortable on the road. Not in terms of rider comfort, but handling, braking, etc..
I found a 1100GS, and loved it.. Still do!! I'm thinking I may have just had a test ride on a 1200GSA that was "not right" for some reason.
Or, it's because my 1100GS has ohlins, and newer tires..
My point is try another test ride.. Sure made a difference for me.
Jeff

[gfspencer]

What I did not like was when I would crank down on the throttle in 1st thru 3rd gear it was very klacketty. I know it is a boxer motor but sheesh. It was especially noticable when I had the flip up helmet open. The bike had an akropovic exhaust on it and when I would let off the throttle quickly it would pop and backfire alot thru the exhaust.
That doesn't sound like a typical GS. (The throttle bodies probably needed synchronizing.) Go to a dealership and get a test ride.