[Hammam]

I am curious. Is there a difference in gearing between a 2012 RT and a 2012 R? I have rented an R (with the little flyscreen and panniers) for a few days while my RT is at the service for repairs after a serious hit-and-run by a wheeled crane while parked (don't we love these?), and the R is a good deal more lively at acceleration in 1st and 2nd gear from idle up to 4,000 rpm. Or is it just the difference in weight (about 20 kg less for the R) and aerodynamics, with no big fairing and screen to push through the air?

Thanks.

 

[ka5ysy]

There is about an 80 pound difference in the bikes that is noticeable when really getting on the throttle, though the camhead engined RT is no slouch at all when you nail it. Around 2010 RT model year, if memory serves me correctly, there was a change in first gear ratio to account for the weight issue that was a problem with acceleration with cargo/pillion some were experiencing. You will notice a lot of comments from owners of older RT's about they being tricky to start moving with a load aboard.

 

[Tony23]

Final drive ratio is different
1200r is 2.75
1200rt is 2.62
That would explain the difference, I believe the gear ratios are the same, it's the fd that will make the difference.

 

[ken6217]

You can see that with the GS as well. The GS is lighter and has an enduro transmission.
Ken

 

[loboheritage]

Every time I ride an R (dealer loaner while getting RT serviced) I ask myself this question. Wish my RT accellerated like the R. Really like the instant throttle response.

 

[Hammam]

Every time I ride an R (dealer loaner while getting RT serviced) I ask myself this question. Wish my RT accellerated like the R. Really like the instant throttle response.

Yes, so do I.

 

[1964Hall]

A set of Lennies sprockets and a booster plug resister fix, will put some extra zip in the RT's stride.
I used to think the same after riding GS's and R's. Now with Lennies and a little extra fuel the RT really does lift up it's skirt and flies of the line and outta curves.
hth
\v/