[dandoble]

I went to the cycle show in Chicago last night and was able see the new K1200GT. Sleek, lower seating, lighter, and nifty handle bar adjustments. There are a series of serrations that can raise the bars. You can set them high for and upright position for touring or lower them for more of a sports bike posture. It is a mechanical adjustment so you are likely to find what is right for you and leave them there. I have a 30" inseam and I was flat footed with knees bent and room to spare. The bike is a lot less top heavy and lighter. Felt like you could toss it around much agility. Less likely to tip over so there are no bumpers for tip overs. The bike on the floor had scratches on the right rear bag so every one will see your damage and you will feel the pain in your pocket book if you drop it. The gas tank had a high rise just in front of the seat but did not seam uncomfortable. It had nice sized rear bags and a rack making it a cool commuter bike and a longer-range tourer. They were signing people up for test rides. I have not ridden the "R" or "S" models but it had the same engine which will means it has some serious zip. It is as nice in real life as the pictues.

 

[beemerlt]

I went to the cycle show in Chicago last night and was able see the new K1200GT. Sleek, lower seating, lighter, and nifty handle bar adjustments.

No photos Dan?

There are a series of serrations that can raise the bars. You can set them high for and upright position for touring or lower them for more of a sports bike posture. It is a mechanical adjustment so you are likely to find what is right for you and leave them there.

Will be welcomed by some although I never had a problem with the non-adjustable bars.

The bike is a lot less top heavy and lighter.

How much lighter - did you get the specs?

Less likely to tip over so there are no bumpers for tip overs. The bike on the floor had scratches on the right rear bag so every one will see your damage and you will feel the pain in your pocket book if you drop it.

This sounds like a backward step from BMW. I always thought the drop protection one of the KLT's great features.

 

[dandoble]

More information

q Sorry no pictures. But there are two days left and other people going.

q The 05 GT model has an aftermarket method to increase the height by a couple inches.

q As I remember I believe the reps said the weight was around 575 lbs.

q I do not know that this bike will require bumpers because it is so narrow. I have always needed “crash” bars to prevent damage from the occasional whoops.

q There was nothing backwards to this bike. It was way cool but more in line with traditional motorcycles from other companies.

My biggest impression at the show was the AIR BAG on the Goldwing. They had one inflated and a video to show how it worked. Looked like a great idea for head on crashes. I bet BMW has to follow in 2007.

 

[beemerlt]

Oops, sorry. I missed that you were talking about the GT (such a small font you use! ).

 

[Steve_R]

My biggest impression at the show was the AIR BAG on the Goldwing. They had one inflated and a video to show how it worked. Looked like a great idea for head on crashes. I bet BMW has to follow in 2007.

Since the Goldwing nose dives when you hit the brakes and sends you down into the vehicle instead of over it like the BMW, I don't think I'd want it. Plus I don't think BMW is one to follow Honda's lead. But then again what do I know.

 

[walilisseu]

Agree with you Steve ... there are so many dynamics during any type of crash, while in a 'cage' it is much more predictable and air bags serve their purpose, but on a bike???? As you state, I believe BMW engineers have figured out the 'best' alternative in those 'emergency' case(s).