I made up my mind today to buy the new 2009 R1200RT I had on hold at Hermy's. I'll be signing the paperwork tomorrow and, with any luck, taking possession by the middle of next week. There's a little bit of a delay involved in me riding the bike home because my credit union is a couple of hundred miles away in New Jersey (dating back to my NJSP days), so everything has to be done through the mail, i.e., signing loan documents, mailing them back, receiving the check, etc.

The RT I'm getting has the Premium Package (heated grips and seats, cruise control, on board computer, and ESA) plus ASC, TPM, radio/CD player, and chrome exhaust. A matching black 49L top case is being included at no extra charge due to BMW's current promotional program.

Now I'm getting excited!

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Congrats, Steve, many happy miles ahead I am sure. I have an 08 and just turned over 21000 miles and loved every one of them. You will enjoy the heated grips and seats and if you wear leather pants the stock seat won't bug you too much. The 09 will be the last of the RT's as we know them as the new one coming out will be restyled and no doubt controversial as was the current model in 05.

So , my friend, keep the shiny side up and enjoy your ride home. Remember to keep it under four grand for the first six hundred miles and don't stay long on any one rpm and you could be as lucky as I was not burning any oil between changes.

Good luck and enjoy.

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No matter where you go , there you are.

Thanks a bunch, Stixx. I appreciate it!

I know the 2010 model year is supposed to be redesigned and my dealer confirmed that it's going to have the twin cam boxer engine ala HP2. Both of these things are what made me decide to buy now. Why? Because I love the styling of the current model, so waiting for the redesigned model would be a gamble. I might love it as well, but I might also end up loathing it. Also, because of the new engine and simply because another year has passed, I was concerned that the price tag would increase on what I consider an already fairly expensive motorcycle.

In any case, I'm sure I'm going to be happy with this bike once I become familiar with it and get that "I'm one with the machine" feeling you develop over time.

P.S.- Those break-in miles are the LONGEST miles you ever ride! They're what I dislike the most about getting a new bike.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Congratulations on your new RT! You will love it.

__________________
'05 1200 RT, Ruby, as in RED, (current garage queen)
'04 1150 RT, '99 Ducati 748 BiPosto, '93 Seca II, '93 K1100RS (Silk Blue), '83 Yamaha Maxim 750 (all gone)

Hi,
Congrats,
I bought an 09 RT in August. I love it. It's the best bike I have ever ridden. The more I ride and the more the bike breaks in the better it gets. I'm addicted...
The only down side is this will be the measure of future bikes. I can't imagine it can get better than this...
You are in for a treat...
Ellie

Good luck with the new bike! The best thing is you got Hermy's as your dealer. Maybe we'll bump into you there. I bought my '09 RT at TwoJacks. They will never see another penny from me. You stated you're getting a black top box. Is that something new or did Hermy's get it painted for you? As far as I know the 49l top boxes all come in silver with a black bottom.

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It's life and life only

Congratulations I think you will be extremely happy with your purchase.

It looks like I won't have a choice between a '09 and a '10 model as the dealer doesn't have anything left in a '09. I hope I won't be sorry, new model years kind of scare me.
Have a great time with your new ride.

Enjoy it, I just traded my 04 1150 RT in on an 09 1200RT Saturday. Did it for the same reason you did.I like the simplicity. Got about 450 on now and getting my first service this Saturday. I really liked the 04 and had reservations about trading but not anymore. This 09 is awesome.

Hope you enjoy your RT as much as I (and wife) do.
Also bought mine from Hermy's, great people to deal with.
Like others noted, every time I ride this bike it gets better. The 49liter was a must for my wife and she loves it. Always ride two up and have no complaints, not even the stock seat.

Enjoy

FWIW, I got the smaller top box which was black unpainted, then painted it to match. I felt the smaller box was more in proportion to the bike. There have been times I would have liked the extra room though. So you guys with the big one , more power to you. LOL

I also got the large made for RT tank bag, mostly cuz it attaches so well getting to the gas cap is quick and it is water proof. But man It really is big. LOL

I have a feeling people when they ride by and see my bike with all the gear for camping and panniers laden with all sorts of other waterproof camping bags and then that huge tank bag probably shake their heads and mumble something like, "He should a got a GS"

LOL

All these new RT's man we should have a meeting or something..............

__________________
No matter where you go , there you are.

Just got back from a 1600 mile trip in 33 hours on my '09 RT. SWEEEET!

__________________
"“People are more violently opposed to fur than leather because it's safer to harass rich women than motorcycle gangs."
Alexei Sayle

'09 R1200RT

Thanks to all for your well-wishes. I appreciate it!

Hi, Buff! I'm over here in Hazle Township just north of Hazleton. Maybe we WILL bump into each other! Regarding the box, I don't know if it's a new thing or not, but BMW makes the 49L top box in both silver and black now so if you buy a black bike, you can get a matching box with black lid. If you go to the BMW Motorrad site and check the current promotions, you'll see they are offering a free 49L top box if you purchase an RT this month and they have the silver and black top box part numbers listed (silver = 7 720 456, black = 7 720 503).
My experience with Two Jacks was a short one. When I first became interested in getting an RT, I e-mailed both Hermy's and Two Jacks to see what kind of a deal they could put together for me. Hermy's got back to me within a few hours. After two days had past, I still hadn't heard back from Two Jacks so I e-mailed them a second time. Finally, one of the two "Jacks" got back to me, he said in his e-mail "let me think about this over the weekend and I'll get back to you." Well, that was three weeks ago and I'm still waiting. I guess he did me a favor!

I have to say, Chris, the sales manager, and everyone else at Hermy's have been absolutely great to me and, as you know, it's a nice ride over there via 442 and 895. Also, I'm used to riding to Schaeffer's H-D in Orwigsburg and going to Hermy's gives me an excuse to go to Cabela's too!

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Congratulations, enjoy it, good choice

Nothing like the stink of a new bike... breathe deeply..

Congrats on the new RT. Remember the more miles you put on it the better it'll run. They really do change quit a bit once you get somewhere above 10K .
Another thumbs up on Hermys.......truly one of the best BMW/Triumph dealerships in the country. My buddy has his 09 in for the 12K service and they gave him a new Triumph Tiger as a loaner. If you haven't done so yet you might want to join the BMWMOA.

Thanks, fellas!

I just got home a little bit ago from signing the paperwork. I'll be bringing the bike home tomorrow!

Here are a few quick shots I took of it this afternoon in front of Hermy's.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Sweeeeet!

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It's life and life only

Ride ON !

That's one beautiful bike.

The top case is black. Was it pre-painted by the dealer...? Something else...?
I thought they only came in a gray or silver color.

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Howard Schisler
2005 BMW K1200LT: "Gray Ghost"
Rushville, OH / BMWMOA #122322

That bike is too cool.

Thanks, guys!

hschisler: The black case is now available from the factory, Part # 7 720 503.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

I spoke to the dealer today on the case I'm getting Saturday on my new silver RT. Both cases available are black on the bottom. It's the top that is either black or silver.

Correct. The top, painted portion is available in either silver, as it always was, or black, which became available about six months ago according to Hermy's.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Trooper I sent you a PM.

I just replied to it, amigo.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Beautiful bike Steve - enjoy it!!

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2009 KGT 1300 Apple Red (mine)
2008 R1200RT Biarritz Blue (sold)
2005 R1200ST Piedmont Red/Light Magnesium (hers)
2003 Goldwing Black (formerly ours and sold)
1999 Valkyrie Tourer Black (sold)

Congrat's man, she's a beaut'!!!!!! Of course, if you're anything like me, you can just kiss your golf game and your yard goodbye.

i can vouch for that. Other hobbies have all but gone since the RT came home to stay

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No matter where you go , there you are.

That is a real purty bike... I'm glad for you.

Let us hear your impressions, and the things you notice that are different from the Electra Glide. We have so may people who ask those questions it is fun to hear new owner's impressions and comments.

Great job. Ride safe...

Enjoy...

Bob

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BMW 2005 R1200RT
Triumph 955i Sprint RS


The thought occurs to me that we are, at this moment, closer to here than we will ever be again.

I picked mine up last weekend. It's identical to XTrooper's, except no ASC, TPMS or radio. I need to schedule my break-in service NOW, as I'll be there early next week. Excellent bike.

I picked up my free key-matched top box today which looks exactly like XTrooper's. I just want to point out: on the black bikes, the gloss portion of the top box isn't just gloss black. It is actually color-matched to the Black Sapphire metallic paint, exactly like the side bag lids. It also includes a passenger backrest pad as well. Really nice. Oh -- and it's HUGE.

Very nice ride, you will love that compared to the HD. Nothing against the HD, and once you ride the RT you will understand what I am saying. Enjoy!!!

__________________
John
Motors
Florida
1999 K1200LT (off duty)
2007 R1200RTP (on duty)
2008 R1200RT (hers) ya right
Contact me 4 motor training 1&1

Congratulations!! Very Sweet Ride!

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James Garner
Frisco, TX
BMWMOA #153642
2009 K1200LT
N5OOO

Congrats, Steve! I think you're gonna love this bike. I rode one last week as well as the K1300GT. Both were a lot of fun. Sure wish BMW would make a K1300RT.

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Kevin
'06 K1200LT

Really SWEET!

__________________

Thanks, all! I really enjoyed it on the ride home from Hermy's on Friday. Yesterday was a washout here, but I'm hoping to put a couple of hundred miles on it today.

Initial impressions.

1. Seating: The leg/foot position is very strange compared to what I'm used to, but not uncomfortable. In fact, I felt quite relaxed though I'm definitely going to have to do something about the position of the clutch lever. I had the guys at Hermy's adjust it up, but I really need to have it extended. The only way I can get under the shift peg to upshift now is to come in from the side because the space between the rider's peg and the shifter is too small. Any suggestions? The Touratech extended shift lever looks like it will do the trick, but it also looks like it was built from a kid's Erector Set.
2. Handling: It's unbelievably nimble through the twisties! I always felt the Electra Glide was responsive through the curves and it is for what it is, but, in comparison, the Harley is like piloting a battleship while handling the RT is like racing around the bay in a cigarette boat.
3. Ride: Well, the fact that the ride didn't even enter my mind and I didn't think about it till someone asked me how the ride was is the greatest compliment I can give it. Not a single bump I rode over made enough of an impression for it to enter my mind. That's impressive! I currently have it on the Comfort setting because, at this stage in my life, I'm all about comfort.
3. Stereo System: It's very nice and plenty loud enough for me to hear clearly at highway speeds (I wear a police half-helmet). I do miss the Harley's automatic volume control that increases the volume as your speed increases, but this is a minor thing.
4. Throttle: It's very responsive, though I have to say that Harley's fly-by-wire throttle is unbeatable. Frankly, with all of this bike's technological advances, I'm was surprised to learn it doesn't have an electronic throttle.
5. Brakes: WOW! Incredible braking power! Now Harley's new Brembo brake system is impressive and it stopped my heavyweight Electra Glide quickly and no drama (I had the ABS option), but the BMW's brakes are in a whole other class. I suspect some of this is due to the fact that the RT is 200+ lbs lighter.
6. Clutch: The clutch lever tension is nearly non-existent compared to what I'm used. Regarding the dry clutch, I have to wonder what all the fuss I've read about it is all about. I found the clutch very easy to operate and it only took me a few upshifts/downshifts to get used to it even with the shift lever position handicap.
4. Negatives: Only one so far. The buffeting from tractor-trailers on the Interstate is a good bit worse on the RT. This is when I could really feel the lightness of the bike. I suspect this is because the RT is not only lighter than the Electra Glide, but that it also has a higher center of gravity. A friend of mine told me to try lowering the windshield till the buffeting decreases. I'm going to try this next time.

Overall, I give the RT two thumbs up! I may have to change a few things, but I don't think it's going to take much for me to get this bike just like I want it. I'm definitely going to have to do something about the clutch lever and the windshield, in the full up position, is still 1"-2" too short for me. Suggestions for a new windshield would be appreciated. I like the looks of the ZTechnik VStream and am leaning towards it unless there's a reason I shouldn't. The jury is still out on the stock seat. I didn't find the seat intolerable and it's certainly not the most uncomfortable seat I've ever used, but it's not the most comfortable either. The Electra Glide's seat was like sitting in a LazyBoy recliner and I don't expect to duplicate that kind of comfort, but I'd like to get a little closer to it. I'm not going to run out and buy an aftermarket seat right away though. As I said, the factory seat seems to be tolerable to me so far, so I going to give it a chance to break-in and I'll make up my mind then. Does anyone have experience with those obscenely expensive seats that Touratech sells?

__________________
Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Congrats again. Great comments.

It's obvious from some of what you said that you are a big boy! Since I am average height and weight the bike fits me like a glove. No mods necessary. Yes, it is VERY different than the Harley. I can attest to that as well. The main resemblance I see is they both ride on two wheels. The resembalance stops there.

My plan is just to ride it "stock" till first service and see where it goes. The largest upgrade I may invest in is the the Zumo and J&M headsets so my passenger and I can communicate, etc. Bike wise I may just leave this one alone. After the Harley that is a refreshing thought!

Steve, and hogdvr

A few comments...

Steve, you said Clutch position... I assume you mean gear selector/lever..? This is an easy fix and this is what I was thinking about when I suggested you have the dealer adjust it while you were there. With the bike on the center stand, you can remove the lower left hand side silver parts onto which the rider and passenger pegs are attached. This something like 3 or is it 4 Torx head screws. Easy removal/replacement- direct screw on/off operation/ This allows access to the pinch bolt that holds the shifter on.

Before you do anything else, take a ruler and measure the distance from the shifter to the ground. Write it down. Then remove the screw holding the shifter on. this is a pinch bolt and it has an unusual Torx head. You may have a socket to fit, or you may have to spend a little to get one. This pinch screw needs to be removed, not just loosened. Then you can pull the lever off and choose a spline that gives the clearance you want.

With your riding boot on you can sit the bike and check for clearance you want.
It is an easy adjustment and you will enjoy it. Reverse steps to re-assemble.

Nimble- yes... just wait till you get used to it!

Comfort... yes. cushy- no.

Radio volume... check the owner's book... I think it has auto volume...

No fly by wire... and this is a good thing... Won't explain now but if you like to wrench on the bike yourself you will find that Throttle Body Synchronization is easy, effective and fun... not to mention possible since it is not computer controlled.

Brakes... I TOLD you!

Clutch lever...? Never heard it could be an issue. Almost too light for my preference.

Truck/buffeting? I never had this problem... in fact my Road Glide was far more effected than the RT. Must be my size- which is smaller. Experiment with windshield position. Many riders change windshields... Cee Bailey/Touratech/V-stream etc... many brands available... but I suggest you not jump on this purchase quickly. Read the forums and search around.

Seats... Take your time. Position... one more thing. If you are like a lot of us our old knees will be wanting some releif. Suburban Machinery make s a beautiful set of peg lowering blocks that will relax your knees a good bit. Lowering the postion of the foot also gives you another inch or so of clearance on the shifter... many of us do this as our first accessory.

Have you joined the BMW MOA yet? Well worth the dues and the magazine is a good read for the ads and vendors if nothing else. You have come this far... might as well dive into the Kool Aid vat.

Welcome on board.

Bob

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BMW 2005 R1200RT
Triumph 955i Sprint RS


The thought occurs to me that we are, at this moment, closer to here than we will ever be again.

Thank you very much for your reply. It has been a great help.

Yes, the gear selector/lever, not the clutch lever. I followed your suggestion and adjusted it myself this afternoon and then went for a ride. The change made a world of difference and it's quite tolerable now.

Thanks for the tip on the radio's automatic volume control. I didn't know it had that feature and I enabled it tonight.

Regarding the buffeting issue, tonight I read enough windshield threads here and elsewhere to give myself a headache. The result is that I decided on and ordered a ZTechnik VStream. I'll see if it improves things when it gets here.

I think the seat will work out, but if not, there are plenty of options. As I previously said, I've tolerated much worse for thousands of miles so I'm not overly concerned. In any case, I did invest in a set of the Suburban Machinery peg lowering blocks. I'm looking forward to installing these on the bike.

I haven't yet joined the BMWMOA, but I do intend to.

Thanks again, Bob!

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Thanks very much.

Congratulations !!
I too picked up my 6th R12RT on Saturday, the 31st.
Yup, 6th.. I try others but keep coming back to the RT.
There is no cure. I can only treat the symptoms by riding.
You can adjust the shifter by removing the Torx head bolt from the shifter's clamp and then pushing the splined shaft inboard. There is plenty of room for this and then adjust to the spline which best suits you. There is no need to remove the side plate to remove/ adjust the shift lever's angle. Replace bolt and ride.
For my size 13 shoes I use the extended shift lever that Suburban Machinery makes. It is the stock lever lengthened and appears "factory". Works very well with the peg lowering blocks which I also use.
Thank you for the info on the black 49L top box. This info is new to me and I will be asking my dealer to order that color for my 09 black RT.
When you feel that she is ready to run, remember, there is a whole new world of power from 6k RPM up. Hold that throttle open all the way to the stop and hang on. If you have any additional weight on the back she well lift the front in 1st gear when that power comes on.
I know that you will enjoy the RT so just give yourself some time to get used to her.
I do not believe that the RT can fully be appreciated by a short demo ride.
In time she will win you over until you too have the RTs disease.

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Tim S
Arizona,USA

09 R1200RT

Thanks for your response, Tim. I have not quite 400 miles on it now and the more I ride it, the more I like it! The hardest part is keeping the engine speed under 4K. I feel like I'm astride a thoroughbred that wants to run and I'm holding it back with the reins. I can't wait to get it in for its 600 mile service (should be sometime next week) so I can experience the upper half of the engine's rpm range.

Here it is in my driveway, the day I brought it home (last Friday).

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Steve... it looks like it is getting dirty... don't you wash your bikes?

Just wait till you pick it up after the first service... then the fun begins... all within the posted limits of course.

For several good reasons you need to be sure to not baby the bike after the service. Ride it like you stole it and it will serve you (or someone) well for 100's of thousands of miles.

__________________
BMW 2005 R1200RT
Triumph 955i Sprint RS


The thought occurs to me that we are, at this moment, closer to here than we will ever be again.

Always!

I've never been accused of babying a vehicle and I'm ready and willing to give this thing a workout as soon I get it back from the 600 mile run-in service. I'm hoping the weather holds out for a few weeks longer.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Congrats Steve! I envy your selection. How about a track day or class? Bring that thing down to VIR next summer during Reg Pridmore's class and we can hit some real twisties without limits! See www.classrides.com when you have a chance. I'm not sure he's added the 2010 schedule yet, but I know he booked two days in early July here in VA.

Sooooo, what do you think about your Harley now????

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John
Motors
Florida
1999 K1200LT (off duty)
2007 R1200RTP (on duty)
2008 R1200RT (hers) ya right
Contact me 4 motor training 1&1

Do not know if this was addressed, but put the seat in the low. I did with the RTP at work and the RT at home, and liked that better. It brought the COG down a bit.

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John
Motors
Florida
1999 K1200LT (off duty)
2007 R1200RTP (on duty)
2008 R1200RT (hers) ya right
Contact me 4 motor training 1&1

XT! Congrats!!!! Our bikes are damn near identical! I left my topcase Silver though.


Thought you might like to see what I did with that fugly rear fender!

Hee ya go! Skinny Black Plate Frame and Reflector Screws. BMW Canbus Compatible Flashing LED Brake/Taillight, BMW Fender Mudflap & BMW Roundel

Click to enlarge!

Attached Thumbnails

   

I like, Atomicman! Two thumbs up!

What you did is a huge improvement over the stock look.

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Steve
NJ State Trooper #3936 (retired 4-1-1991)
2009 R1200RT - sapphire black metallic

Thanks Chief!! I like it too!

The other things I've done so far are:

Cylinder Head Protectors
Pannier Protectors
"05 Dual Horn Set-up
Barbacks
BMW Roundel Triple Clamp Plug
Heavy Barends

Next Farkles this winter:

Centech Ap-2
Rewire Front Aux.Plug directly to Battery
Wire and Mount Valentine 1 Detector
Supplelmental Front Lighting (possibly Caliper/Fork mounted)
Install Nav, MP3, Satellite Radio, Comm. System
V-Stream wider windscreen and windscreen arms
Lower rider pegs
Custom Seat, Rich's on Whidbey Island, WA

Get a divorce lawyer!

Steve, is that really you on that old Indian?

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Jerry

BMWMOA # 134919
2000 LT Hannigan Trike
1986 Suzuki TM400 (gone)
1957 BSA 500 cc Twin (long gone)
1955 BSA Golden Flash (longer gone)
1950 or thereabouts HD 165 cc 2 stroke! (gone in 1954)