BMW R1200S

Wonderful bike! – I'll state from the outset that I'm a big fan of BMW flat-twins. Had several versions - this is by far the best of all I've owned - so far! My first foray into BMWs was an ex-demonstrator R1100S - which I rode the wheels off. Toured, scratched and generally had a blast on it! Very capable bike. Did over 40k klm on it in a bit over 2yrs and apart from tyres and regular servicing, didn't even need to change so much as a light bulb. Tick. I then went to an R1200RT, which was a great bike for two up touring - panniers, top box etc. Just a gem. A bit more touring focused, but could certainly boogie to satisfy the inner hoon. Then had a 1200R, which was a lot of fun, and great for commuting, but not a really capable naked for longer distances. Back to another RT then, which again was unsurpassable for it's intended brief. Loved that bike, until some fool wasn't looking as he entered a slip-lane, and collected me from the rear. I was fine, but sad to see that bike go. Found another fairly well sorted 1100S, which was fine - like literally jumping back on the bike, but then found a pristine 1200S (which I'd always lusted after, having ridden a demo when I had my first 1100S). Money down, job done. So, that's the history of my BMW ownership (with quite a few Jap bikes in between - Honda VFR x2, and a CB1300S also, as well as a couple of cruisers). Times and circumstances change. I don't think I'll be doing too much 2-up touring in the future - have a Kombi, the missus and three fur-kids to take with me! So, when the chance at this bike came up, knowing I'd only be commuting, going for solo day rides and the odd solo weekend/overnighter away, I jumped at it! I have not been disappointed! Basically the same engine as the hex-head 1200RT, but with tuning & internal engine mods and styling to make it more sporty. As the replacement to the 1100S, the difference is very noticeable. It's much lighter, has Ohlins suspension, both ends, with BM's shaft drive and Duo-lever front end, and it makes about 15 more hp than the 1100s. Ergonomically it's very good. I'm 195cm tall, and it's very roomy, and while the ride position is sporty, the hand-bum-pegs ratio just seems to work well for me. It has a full stainless-steel Aussie made Staintune system and has had a mapping chip installed. Fuels well and pulls like a train - but even though it is a big twin, doesn't really have much below 2,500rpm. After that - rip open the throttle and it will surprise you! It really pulls hard and then there's almost an extra-kick in the powerband from about 6,500rpm all the way to redline @ 8,500rpm. Not that you could do that often and keep your licence! Handling with the suspension/frame set up is magic. A bit slow compared to some lighter supersports, but stable, planted, with great brakes and holds a line like no other bike I've ridden (and that's quite a few). When I had my first R1100S, I used to surprise quite a few sportsbikes on my favourite roads, carving up the hills outside of Adelaide. This next step up is a whole new ball park. Mine had just 48k klm on the clock when I found it. Full service history and even had the BMW panniers (the expandable "sports" ones). With and Oxford expandable seat-pack, it's well placed for solo touring as well. The upshot is that even when commuting, I get to work with a grin on my face. Do yourselves a favour and if you get the opportunity, take one for a ride. Then buy it!