There's no doubt the RT is a brilliantly capable bike, but it could be even better without a few niggles which, in fairness aren't so bad when you're fully used to them. First is the indicator switchgear. Why oh why
BMW
think it's a good idea to have three switches to operate the indicators in an already crowded handlebar area is beyond me. And the amount of sag in the front Telelever suspension arrangement is just too great, resulting in excessive movement at times when accelerating and slowing down. The three-bulb headlight arrangement has too sharp a cut-off on low beam, though it's far better when full beam is selected. Even so, illumination for night riding is still only what I'd call decent and not in keeping with the rest of the bike's excellent general ability.
None of these shortcomings can affect my overall praise for the way bike behaves on the whole however. It's not the cheapest thing out there, but you do get a hell of a lot for what you pay for. And that includes that all-important go anywhere, anytime ability - something that's true whether it's the middle of June or December.
STAT BOX
2007 BMW R1200RT SE
ENGINE
Price: £13,265 (in tested spec), £11,595 in standard spec
Performance: 130mph
Engine
Type: 1170cc, liquid cooled, eight-valve, sohc, flat twin
Maximum power: 110bhp @ 7,500rpm
Maximum torque: 85lb/ft @ 6000rpm
TRANSMISSION
Transmission: six speed
Final drive: shaft
CHASSIS/COMPONENTS
Frame: steel tube
Suspension:
Front: BMW Telelever with ESA (electronic suspension adjustment)
Rear: monoshock with ESA (electronic suspension adjustment)
Brakes:
Front: twin 320mm discs with four piston ABS calipers
Rear: single 265mm disc with twin-piston ABS caliper
Tyres:
Front: 120/70 -17
Rear: 180/55 -17
DIMENSIONS/CAPACITY
Seat
height: 820/840mm
Wheelbase: 1485mm
Dry weight: 229kg
