[1worshipguy]

I've had my '99 LT for about 15 months. I love the refinement over what I had ridden before. However, I am not a big fan of the low-speed bulk. I've dropped her twice and had to have help getting her back up. That does little for low-speed confidence.

Everything I've read says that the RT is similar in rider comfort and amenities, but weighing in over 200 lbs less than my LT. That sounds like more of what I'm looking for. By the way, I'm 5'10" and 170 lbs myself.

I got the hankering for lighter and sportier by riding the GTL demo...but no way I can manage the price. I found an '05 RT for about the right price. I understand that '05 was the first year fro the 1200RT (following the 1150?). Anything to look for?

Thanks for any input on a potential shift from the LT to the RT. I look forward to all the advice and snide remarks this forum likes to give

 

[JonA]

I understand that '05 was the first year fro the 1200RT (following the 1150?). Anything to look for?

Yep, '05 was the first year of production - and of course still the best year, they all go down hill from then on :histerica

Well on a more serious note, I guess the main thing to note is that 05's and 06' have the servo brakes which some find a bit 'grabby' at low speeds - personally I have no problems with mine, but check them out on your test ride. If you're planning to do your own servicing as I do, then the brake fluid flush is a little more complex on the servos but not exactly rocket science.

 

[itspossible]

I just sold my 2002 LT and replaced it with a 2008 RT, I sold for the same reasons you mentioned, dropped the bike and couldn't pick it up by myself. The LT was a great comfort bike and I did some long tours to both coasts but the RT can do the same thing with 200 lbs. less weight. I notice the difference most when doing a u turn and when standing still, the RT just doesn't have the almost overpowering weight if it leans past your comfort zone for holding it up. Vibration is definitely noticeable compared to the LT but I expect I can get used to it.

I also appreciate the updated styling and have always loved the boxer look.

r

 

[SPXDR]

Well on a more serious note, I guess the main thing to note is that 05's and 06' have the servo brakes which some find a bit 'grabby' at low speeds - personally I have no problems with mine, but check them out on your test ride. If you're planning to do your own servicing as I do, then the brake fluid flush is a little more complex on the servos but not exactly rocket science.

On my former 2005 RT, I found the brakes to be different from my 2011RT. They were not better or worse, just different. In other words, you'll get used to them, if you do decide to buy a 2005 RT.

On the bikes with the servo brakes, the brake fluid flush is super important. IMO, if you don't have records to show that the fluid was flushed regularly (at least every 24 months), that may be a reason to stay away from that bike. The fluid tends to break down, allowing moisture in, and then the pump goes out, and it's a nearly $2,000 repair bill.

 

[TWheels]

I just sold my 2002 LT and replaced it with a 2008 RT, I sold for the same reasons you mentioned, dropped the bike and couldn't pick it up by myself. The LT was a great comfort bike and I did some long tours to both coasts but the RT can do the same thing with 200 lbs. less weight. I notice the difference most when doing a u turn and when standing still, the RT just doesn't have the almost overpowering weight if it leans past your comfort zone for holding it up. Vibration is definitely noticeable compared to the LT but I expect I can get used to it.

I also appreciate the updated styling and have always loved the boxer look.

r

+1
We find the RT almost as comfortable as the LT and I find it a whole lot easier to handle at low speed. I did not like the servo assisted brakes on the LT and was relieved to find out that the 2010 RT did not have them. Not sure when they made the change. I really liked my LT but would not go back to one.

 

[1worshipguy]

So If servo assisted brakes were my only concern on the '05 RT, knowing my '99 LT also has them, I likely would not have any issue with them other than knowing their service record?

I honestly don't have any issue with my LT's brakes so sounds like an '05 might suit me fine.

I've found an '05 I like with it's options and all, and haven't found an '07 or newer in an affordable price range, so I appreciate all your help. I'll let you know what comes! (if anything...gotta get the SO approval first!)

 

[New2rt]

1worshipguy Your LT doesn't have the servo brakes, ABS yes, servo came later.

The RT is a fantastic bike and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
I doubt you'll have any trouble selling the LT, it looks great in white.

Others click here http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=67603 and scroll down for a pic

 

[Buchnerb]

I have an 07 LT and last fall I bought a loaded 12 RT. I am fortunate in being able to keep the LT. My daily commute had changed from high speed expressway to congested, multilane city streets and three levels up in a crowded parking garage. I wanted something lighter and more maneuverable that I did not have to worry about a low speed drop when I got cut off. As my daily commuter I love the RT. Two up we always take the LT as my wife does not like the RT seat compared to the LT. I have not had any long trips yet on the RT but I 'm going solo from VA to St. Louis week after next and I'm taking the RT. I made the same trip last year on the LT so it will be a good comparison.

At interstate speeds I find the LT to be much more comfortable than the RT. I can ride with my visor up and little noise. The RT is much more blustery, noisier and it blows my visor down no matter where windshield is.

The suspension on the RT is more advanced with ASC and ABS. No matter where I set the suspension on the RT the LT rides better (I have ohlins) I actually like linked brakes. The electronics on the RT are more advanced but I would much rather have the LTs wired system than the bluetooth RT. Intercom sucks. New style radio controls and turn signal switch interfere with each other unless you have fingers like ET.

With the weight difference the RT accelerates faster but you have to wind it higher to get the afterburner kick effect. Daily checks on the RT are easier and you can actually pour oil into it if you need. Without reverse I have to pay a little more attention to where I park.

Cargo space is about the same if you get the big topcase on the RT.

Bottom line is I like both but for different uses. I think my ride to St. Louis will convince me that long trips belong to the LT but the RT is easier to drive.

Bruce

 

[BCVBeck]

'06 LT to'08 RT. I, too, got tired of picking the LT up after dropping it for the forth time. I have never looked back. Too busy riding my Titan Silver RT!

 

[jeffdean]

Me too. got rid of last LT for an RT.

I recommend either a 2007 or newer R1200RT or an R1100RT. They do not have servo brakes, which I recommend you avoid.

 

[2wheeljunkie]

Traded the 2004 LT for a 2010 RT, and have never regretted it. My wife may not like the RT quite so much based on the fact she has only gone with me once on the RT in two years. That was the time the RCMP stopped me for speeding. I haven't figured out if it was the police, or the change in bike that has discourgaged her from going with me. Actually I think it is the fact that she inherited a cottage on the ocean and spends her spare time there, leaving me free to motor alone on my bike of choice, the RT.

 

[Boatzo]

I went from an RT to the LT because I wanted something bigger and more comfortable. Also, my bride after one short ride on the RT, said "forget about it". She liked to ride on the LT, however. Well, I experienced all the things said above although I was able to pick it up twice using the back into it technique. I started to develop some knee and hip problems and just couldn't handle the LT at stops anymore so I parted with her. When I still had the RT & the LT, I found myself riding the RT more as it felt like a sprint bike compared to the LT. Again, for 2 up riding, you can't beat the LT for comfort, but as always, you gotta be able to keep it upright. I would probably go back to an RT if I found a really good deal on one. My $.02.