K1300lt

[Buchnerb]

Based on the this weeks announcement of the K1300 S, R, and GT by BMW I'm guessing that the replacement if any for the K1200LT will be the K1300LT. Increased the displacement and tuned for more power but still a four.

http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41032

If they can cut the weight and add some of the newer electro mechanical features on these bikes I'd be interested.

Bruce

[tbarstow]

The last time I talked to a dealer about an LT, I was told they will still make them as the current set up, just in black only. With the state of the economy, I wouldn't expect huge changes in the LT for next year.

[DavidTaylor]

The main thrust of the new LT rumor mill has it with a dedicated inline 6 displacing somewhere around 1800cc. It would be a transverse mounted motor like the new K12/13 with a couple of cylinders added. My thinking is they have to go bigger than 1300cc because the rest of the luxo-tourer market is at or beyond 1800cc and has been for quite a while. You've got to measure up in the marketing as well as the actual usage; a lot of folks would discount a K1300LT because the Wing, ElectraGlide, Rocket III Tourer, Vision, etc, are all "bigger" on the spec sheet, regardless of if a smaller motor has more power or the bike can outperform the current behemoths. Also that size platform gives them a lot of room to tun for torque and HP as needed across the power band. The 1300 could limit that a bit if they really want to go big and surpass the rest on the dyno charts.

[rglassma]

Due to the state of the economy, I wouldn't be surprised if BMW delayed the new release another year.... In other words, play a wait and see game and try to get rid of all the old 1200 models here in the states. They are already taking a big financial hit doing business here.

I think I will go with the idea of a 1300 inline four as well no matter what the rumor mill says. One of the things that differentiates the LT from the other tourers is its superior fuel economy.

I think they can ring out the power they need for the additional weight by crippling the engine initially for the tourer, and then changing it another year to push more sales. But, considering the price of fuel abroad, I think the US market is the least of their worries.

They are going to continue to loose market share if their dealer network continues to decline. So, they may actually give us less attention and more to every other market in the world. That will appease their big picture.

If they actually come up with a 6, that would cost them considering they just put out the F series in the 800 and 650 (crippled 800). Plus it would be far more difficult to make the fuel economy as good as the 1300.

What are the priorities for a tourer? It is meant to be a long distance bike. Fuel economy is high on the list. So is comfort. Heavy power is nice, but I doubt at the expense of fuel economy (as is the GW).

Just my opinion.

Thanks for readin'.

Bob Glassman

[meese]

A little birdie told me they have a K1400LT Slant/4 LT test mule running around, as well as a K1600LT inline-6 version. I think we're still way too early into it to really know for sure which way they'll go. And yes, the economic situation does have to play a part in all of this, at least in regards to timing of a new LT.

If they can cut the weight and add some of the newer electro mechanical features on these bikes I'd be interested.Agreed, but only if they can fix the reliability issues once and for all. But we won't know that until we start getting some serious miles on the new platform.

[BecketMa]

The first thing I'll look at is the improved FD, changes to the engine and trany seals, new slave cylinder, new clutch, new rear trunk, improved gas mileage, better no speed handling.

Bigger engine? We don't need no bigger stinking engine!

Man would I love a cooling system of some kind for when the temps go over 95F!

Bob in cold Tucson

[joevano]

When the BMW demo truck was in town. I was talking about missing the 1800 I had in the 'Wing and was told by a BMW employee that there is a 6 cylinder coming but I did not push her on details. I wish I had!

[Caveno]

We don't need 1300 or 1800cc, 1200cc is fine! I'd rather see better gas mileage, better slow speed handling, quieter engine, and a lighter and lower bike. With improvements to the FD, more ergonomic seating, and to fix other common problem areas on the LT.

If the new LT is 1800cc, I don't think I'll upgrade. Motorcycles of the past 15 years have been getting bigger and bigger, and its getting silly.

[pickerbiker]

Last discussion I had with my dealer in Seattle, he said BMW is looking at a 6 cylinder, but it will probably be sourced from Rotax.

[fpmlt]

I could accept a 1300 or 1400, but not sure of any need for an 1800. Not concerned about fuel mileage either, I'm real satisifed with the 50 average I get. Could never accept any comprimise in handling though.
Most important to me would be the reliability of the FD, and am really sold on the wet clutch rather than dry. Solves a lot of problems.
Wonder if R and D could come up with a speed sensitive system that could lower the bike, say under 10 MPH, then raise it back up at speed. Would solve the low speed handling and the short legged guys and gals. Heck, if they can run a system like the three wheeled skooters that engage and disengage the front wheels, why not raise and lower this one?

[DubLNawt]

I agree with Caveno 100%. Let's refine this thing. I don't think a bigger engine is really needed. My power is adequate and, at least to me, the acceleration is fine from 70 mph on up... even towing. This machine satisfies a different niche compared to an HD or GW... it can actually go around corners.

[Tallyho]

The new LT will not be a 1300. There are many things to consider in an LT redesign and engine displacement will only be one of them. I have heard/seen the rumors from good sources of K1600 mule testing in Spain. Whether they wait to for a "better" economy is certainly their decision but they will run out of current LT production materials with the 2009 model. The LT could be built in Spartanburg which would mitigate the current dollar/euro inequity.(which seems to be improving during this economic situation) It is entirely possible to get 50 miles per gallon out of 1600cc or 1800cc engine.

BMW's goal should well be to come out with an awesome "wing killer" in every respect. The current LT is a fine machine that will last a long time for a lot of us. But I believe BMW will take a major step up with the next version that will dazzle, amaze and have us all chomping at the bit.(Mama, hide the checkbook!) And yes, it should certainly be available in red!

[motorman587]

I could've used a little more HP, two up, full loaded in the mountains, and my wife is not big. For the record...........:)

[LT_Pilot]

I want a lot more power, lower seat height, lower center of gravity, and a much better, more integrated radio.
And better fuel mileage than the 38-42 that I've always gotten.
Until then, I'll keep my '01 LT.

[ez_rdr55]

I won't be buying another BMW be it a 1300, 1800 or whatever, until they get their reliability and quality issues fixed PERIOD! There are simply too many great bikes out there for me to accept BMW’s subpar reliability/quality and the stealers (not the new dealer in St. Louis) arrogant you broke it you fix it attitude. Sorry for the rant, but fool me once, and I won’t be fooled again. Having said all that I like my LT now that I have fixed all the BS that happens to these bikes. This forum rocks.

[tfparker3rd]

I'm 5'9" and the most important change they could make for the likes of me is lower the bike an inch or two. Otherwise, I'm not certain I would trade my current LT, regardless.

[Mugszy]

I'm 5'9" and the most important change they could make for the likes of me is lower the bike an inch or two. Otherwise, I'm not certain I would trade my current LT, regardless.


You must have a pre-05 model as I am also 5'9" and I can plant my feet on my '06.

Mugz

[Voyager]

Due to the state of the economy, I wouldn't be surprised if BMW delayed the new release another year.... In other words, play a wait and see game and try to get rid of all the old 1200 models here in the states. They are already taking a big financial hit doing business here.

I think I will go with the idea of a 1300 inline four as well no matter what the rumor mill says. One of the things that differentiates the LT from the other tourers is its superior fuel economy.

I think they can ring out the power they need for the additional weight by crippling the engine initially for the tourer, and then changing it another year to push more sales. But, considering the price of fuel abroad, I think the US market is the least of their worries.

They are going to continue to loose market share if their dealer network continues to decline. So, they may actually give us less attention and more to every other market in the world. That will appease their big picture.

If they actually come up with a 6, that would cost them considering they just put out the F series in the 800 and 650 (crippled 800). Plus it would be far more difficult to make the fuel economy as good as the 1300.

What are the priorities for a tourer? It is meant to be a long distance bike. Fuel economy is high on the list. So is comfort. Heavy power is nice, but I doubt at the expense of fuel economy (as is the GW).

Just my opinion.

Thanks for readin'.

Bob Glassman

I'm pretty much in the same camp. I place a high priority on fuel mileage when looking at touring bikes. That is one thing I found attractive about the LT. I would like a little more low-end torque and extra displacement would help in that regard, but I certainly don't want an 1800cc behemoth like the GW.

I'd like a little more torque, the same or less weight, the same handling and braking, a RELIABLE FD, clutch slave cylinder and rear crank seal (these seem to be the predominant issues on this forum, though I've luckily had none of them to date). I wouldn't mind a wet clutch to escape the leaking seals issues, although I definitely see advantages to the dry clutch. I'd also like a much better seat. Other than this, I like the LT pretty much as it is.

[pozo_izquierdo]

..at least judging from the price lists of the dealers. There were only two new LT:s in Finland (at the dealers) and they are the last ones. No more coming from the factory. No LT shown in the BMW-show in Munich either, new or old model.

Let's see when (and if) the replacement comes...

Regards

[stapleford]

State of the economy plays little into the R&D factor and/or release date. Wing now is slated for one year, 2000 cc with similar technology as on the LT (adjust veering, airbags, auto alert, dash, auto stand,etc). My guess, BMW will release soon and the cc will be much larger producing at least 150 horse, a 6 cylinder w/6 gears, 2300 rpm at 65mph would not surprise me. Once release, those with resources will flip for the best, last redesign 99, so we are looking at 10 years now. The Honda Wing is really the only other large true touring bike available. 2 cents.

[Frenchy]

The LT is a great bike but it do have SERIOUS issues :wack:

Here in France it's not-even-a-little comparable to the GW sales (and I bet it's the same situation elsewhere)

BMW sells tons of 1200RT + tons of 1200GS + tons of 1200GT

We're all looking for : "what will it look like ?" and "what engine will it be ?" but considering above points, I'm not so sure BMW will develop it after all... :(

Your car or bike is a BMW and people says : "woooowwww... :cool:", so why did the sales never really get up for this bike :confused:
Every magazines I have tells the LT is better than the GW in (almost) every ride quality aspects, but hey... it is not THE bike.
That's what the GW is. The ultimate bike, nothing less. Hard to challenge that...

[simon]

HMMMMM, I just couldn't bring myself to own a goldwing. It's a great bike (although I prefer the LT) but owning a goldwing would turn me into a goldwing owner...(?) and unless I had o/d'd on fairy lights and chrome, it's not an association I'd be happy with (just my humble opinion-apologies to goldwing owners with standard bikes out there)

A GW "the ultimate bike"? not for me it's not.

Simon

[zippy_gg]

I am not concerned yet as to what the next LT will be like... I have an 05 shy of 40k miles, that I bought used with just 10k miles on it in March of 07, and I have an extended warranty (OK, a service contract :deal: ) valid until August of 2012. I spent time and bucks to farkelize the beast so I won't trade anytime soon.

Before I bought the Pinnacle and custom seats I thought long and hard, wondering what my next bike would be. Since there is no new LT in scope... well I decided to keep my 05 for a while.

I would have loved to see a wet clutch on the new model, thus eliminating the pesky contaminated disk issues caused by failed slave cylinders or bad seals from either engine or tranny.
Also since I live and ride in California I want a bike no wider than the current LT so I can split lanes, and not heavier as it takes the fun out of driving in town.
What I would like to see is a better choice of tires, so BMW should take that into consideration with the new design.
I also agree with many that a bigger engine size is a ridiculous idea, regardless of what Honda does. Give me better technology in lieu of more CC and I'll be happy!!!:clapping:

[dmatson]

I here this all the time and agree..."I wish my LT had more low end". You don't have to look much farther than first gear to figure it out. If you wanted to you could ride all day without shifting out of first! 63mph in first gear, who needs that. If the factory could just regear this bike so that you could take off two up on a hill without burning up the clutch. I would trade my reverse for a good low first any time.

[Frenchy]

A GW "the ultimate bike"? not for me it's not.
Sorry I was not clear, the idea was to make it sound like that is what people think. I do not think it is either. I think there is none.

[SEG]

Recently I learned from the parts department at a major BMW dealer on the east coast that the 2010 LT will have a coded key, like some of the other models currently use. I asked what other changes were planned for 2010 and all I got was silence and she wouldn't reveal more. I know this is not much to go on, but I thought I'd pass this tidbit along.
Scott

[kpwrig]

Based on the this weeks announcement of the K1300 S, R, and GT by BMW I'm guessing that the replacement if any for the K1200LT will be the K1300LT. Increased the displacement and tuned for more power but still a four.

http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41032

If they can cut the weight and add some of the newer electro mechanical features on these bikes I'd be interested.

Bruce

I don't know what the gripe is all about!!. I have a LT 2003, and since I have been riding this bike (for 1 year) it is a very superiour ride of all the bikes that I have ridden previously. That goes from 1948 bikes (european, jap Bikes, HD, and BMW's.). I love the bike I am riding. I am 60yrs young and love the LT as it is!!!, iif additionals come to bear on an upgrade I will think twice as the HP's (really don't require more power), Just would like addtional options, like all wirless communications, whether radio, bike to bike, etc.

Hope we get a LT2010 that has a lower center of gravity and heaps of options

Regards

Graham

[bjedruszczak]

I don't know what the gripe is all about!!. I have a LT 2003, and since I have been riding this bike (for 1 year) it is a very superiour ride of all the bikes that I have ridden previously. That goes from 1948 bikes (european, jap Bikes, HD, and BMW's.). I love the bike I am riding. I am 60yrs young and love the LT as it is!!!, iif additionals come to bear on an upgrade I will think twice as the HP's (really don't require more power), Just would like addtional options, like all wirless communications, whether radio, bike to bike, etc.

Hope we get a LT2010 that has a lower center of gravity and heaps of options

Regards

Graham

Wether radio is already built in, at least it is in the US models 2005 and up. I'm not sure about 2003 though.

[dgl57]

I agree with Simon that the goldwing is a great bike but not for me.... I love the looks and handling of the lt and the wing does not do it for me in those categories

[bibleman]

HMMMMM, I just couldn't bring myself to own a goldwing. It's a great bike (although I prefer the LT) but owning a goldwing would turn me into a goldwing owner...(?) and unless I had o/d'd on fairy lights and chrome, it's not an association I'd be happy with (just my humble opinion-apologies to goldwing owners with standard bikes out there)

A GW "the ultimate bike"? not for me it's not.

Simon

No slight taken, although as someone who owns both, I am not so sure that my personality changes depending on which bike I am riding. :confused:

When I had my Harley Ultra, I was pretty much the same guy too. I just had to ride a lot slower (or get off and push).

[HornHonker]

The main reason I sold my 03 GW was the shift forks seemed to be failing. Very clunky and jumped out of gear. Didn't make me a different person owning it. My bike had no extra fake chrome and certainly NO teddy bear !

[whenisell]

We bought our LT new in 2003 and love it. It is great for long trips. Since then we bought a 2004 Ducati ST3 and a 2008 Victory Vision. We love the Ducati for short rides (200 miles or so) in the mountains, and the Victory is a crowd pleaser, but the LT is the best ride for us.

We bought the LT for our 40th wedding anniversary present. Maybe the new LT will be out in time for our 50th in 2013.

[RSnyder]

Was just on the Sierra BMW site, they are taking deposits on the 2010 K1300LT.

[BruceHarrisJr]

Rusty, I just now took a look see at Sierra's website and did not see what you did. Can you provide a link to same?

[Duane_in_Florida]

Rusty, I just now took a look see at Sierra's website and did not see what you did. Can you provide a link to same?

At the bottom of the used bike page, they list bikes they are taking deposits on. The 2010 K1300LT is followed by a question mark....as is the 2010 Lo Rider and the 2010 1200RS RennSport. :) Apparently Sierra is willing to take your money for bikes that might some day exist...if you really want to give it to them... or more likely this is just a joke. They probably read this web site too.

[stapleford]

I am not concerned yet as to what the next LT will be like... I have an 05 shy of 40k miles, that I bought used with just 10k miles on it in March of 07, and I have an extended warranty (OK, a service contract :deal: ) valid until August of 2012. I spent time and bucks to farkelize the beast so I won't trade anytime soon.

Before I bought the Pinnacle and custom seats I thought long and hard, wondering what my next bike would be. Since there is no new LT in scope... well I decided to keep my 05 for a while.

I would have loved to see a wet clutch on the new model, thus eliminating the pesky contaminated disk issues caused by failed slave cylinders or bad seals from either engine or tranny.
Also since I live and ride in California I want a bike no wider than the current LT so I can split lanes, and not heavier as it takes the fun out of driving in town.
What I would like to see is a better choice of tires, so BMW should take that into consideration with the new design.
I also agree with many that a bigger engine size is a ridiculous idea, regardless of what Honda does. Give me better technology in lieu of more CC and I'll be happy!!!:clapping:

[B]Folks did come to the same conclusion with 500cc the Honda 750, then 1000 cc. The fact that GW is now 1800cc with more horse than LT illustrates that a bigger engine is not outside the view of comprehension.. unless of course you relate it to a fighter pilot in the new Raptor. American/German technology will continue to keep pace with size, power, and performance. I could certainly handle more weight and at 6'4 220lbs the LT seems small now, cant imagine riding a smaller bike. Give me a lamborghini, I'll try 0-60 in 4 just to feel it. Cant say it would be something Id do often, but I hardly throttle the LT through 5 gears either and yet nice to know the power is there; 1500LT?, let me try it. Wing airbags?, would love to talk to the dude who saved his wife.B]