January 7th, 2012, 03:24 PM | #1 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
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Test-rode a K1600GT today
I've been looking for a bike to replace my RT for long-distance and rally riding. The top contender for a little while has been the K1600 series from BMW, but I hadn't had a chance to ride one yet until this morning. Fun bike! Feels heavy when just starting to roll, but once above walking speed it lightens up immediately and the steering is very precise.
Motor is great! All bikes should have 6 cylinders. It's very evident that it's computer controlled to the nth degree, as the torque is managed quite a bit in the lower ranges. In fact it doesn't feel nearly as "torquey" as one would expect a 1600+cc engine to feel. It's rated at 160hp, but one wouldn't guess that by the low-end or even lower-mid-range. Once the revs are up though, it sounds fantastic, and really starts to pull well. I had it out for about an hour, and took it up and around one of the nearby mountains here in San Jose. Worked well on the freeway, and on that small goat trail. The GT version is aimed at the sport-touring market, and the GTL version is aimed at the more full-boat touring market. I definitely prefer the former, and even sitting on the GTL felt a bit awkward compared to what I prefer. So it was a good morning! But - then the bad news sunk in. The supply of these bikes is so limited, and will be for such a long while, that even though I put a (refundable) deposit on one this morning, they can't guarantee delivery for months. It might be summer before I see the bike. I've got a 24-hr rally the 1st weekend in June that I had hope to use as a trial run for the bike, and even that is up in the air at this point. I think this is a textbook definition of a "1st world" problem, so I'll keep the whining to a minimum. Anyway, fun day. If folks are wondering what an ST bike feels like, it is helpful that BMW dealerships typically allow test rides pretty easily. More pics in full res up in this gallery.
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January 7th, 2012, 07:56 PM | #2 |
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There's a BMW Motorad dealership about 15 min from me. Do they allow just ANYONE to test ride?? or do I actually have to be a legit possible buyer?
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January 7th, 2012, 07:59 PM | #3 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
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How would they know the difference?
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January 7th, 2012, 08:01 PM | #4 |
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I'm a 19 year old broke college kid. I don't exactly look like I can afford a brand new S1000RR. Do most dealerships allow test rides?
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January 7th, 2012, 08:07 PM | #5 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
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BMW, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, and Victory dealerships seem to be good about allowing test rides of new demo bikes. Other makes, it seems to vary a bit more, and it can be harder to test drive a new bike without finding them at a demo day of some sort.
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January 7th, 2012, 09:14 PM | #6 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: I'm a ninja!
Location: Stone Mtn
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 Posts: 453
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Most of the ones I've visited that don't have d*cks for sales people allow me to test ride as long as I can produce a valid motorcycle license. One guy at this HD shop just likes to have an excuse to ride so he is always more than happy to let me test ride their bikes.
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January 7th, 2012, 09:32 PM | #7 |
Milkshake Drinker
Name: Skippii
Location: Richmond, Va
Join Date: Aug 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Orange DRZ400-S, 2005 Ninja 250 & Custom Thundercunt Dirt Chopper Posts: A lot.
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Why the BMW over the Concours14?
Posted via Mobile Device |
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January 7th, 2012, 11:25 PM | #8 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
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I like the Concours 14, but it's missing some things that are important to me for a long-distance rally bike. Electronic cruise is almost a must-have feature for me for repeated 1000+ mile days. It's a crime that Kawi spent their electronics budget on silly keyfobs to replace keys, but didn't see fit to put on a cruise feature. There are aftermarket solutions for the Kawi and the FJR, but they are very expensive and don't work terribly well. The rest of the electronics available on the BMW are pretty compelling as well (ipod hookup/factory nav/Sirius all available over a single bluetooth pairing), along with the best ABS and TC yet available. The BMW also has somewhat better fuel economy, and a much larger gas tank, so stock range is significantly better than most of its peers. It also means that if I do put a fuel cell on it to take it up to the rally limit (11.5 gallons), the cell can be smaller and more manageable.
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January 8th, 2012, 02:07 AM | #9 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Murphey
Location: Eastern Washington
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2002 Honda 919, 2004 Ninja 500R NAKED Posts: A lot.
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Eww I don't like the idea of a computer managing my power.. how does that even work? not to get off topic.. 1600ccs is too much for me :P
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January 8th, 2012, 06:35 AM | #10 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Jeremy
Location: Philadelphia
Join Date: Feb 2011 Motorcycle(s): '04 Aprilia RSV, '10 Bonneville, '10 Ninjette Posts: 359
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I'd love to ride one Alex. I've put over 1k miles on my dad's K1200. It amazes me how smooth that bike is. But when you open it up, it's like a freight train!
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January 8th, 2012, 11:11 AM | #11 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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It keeps you from running into a house.
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January 8th, 2012, 01:26 PM | #12 |
wat
Name: wat
Location: tustin/long beach
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its such a shame we have to live our unfortunate lives in such a dastardly inefficient and politically corrupt country that we can't even sort out getting a decent supply of BWM motorcycles. sheesh!
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January 8th, 2012, 04:26 PM | #14 | ||
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
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Quote:
Quote:
or: I didn't care for the handling on the K1200S, but they fixed it up significantly on the 1300S, and the K16's appear to be another leap forward in steering feel.
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January 8th, 2012, 06:21 PM | #15 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Alex
Location: Belfast, ME
Join Date: Jul 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2010 Honda NT-700-V, formerly, Green 2008 Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.
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Alex, Sounds like a great bike for an Iron Butt Rally. I hope they can expedite your order. You can tell them that it would be good advertising for them--then again, they probably can't make them fast enough.
I plan to do a few 1000mile Saddlesore rides this spring. The NT is well suited for that. You wouldn't believe the weather here in Maine. We are still riding.
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Ninjette, Sold. New Bike: 2010 Honda NT-700V/VA, 73 Honda 550, 74 Honda 550 |
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January 9th, 2012, 12:07 PM | #17 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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I don't see it.
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January 9th, 2012, 04:29 PM | #18 | |
ninjette.org guru
Name: I'm a ninja!
Location: Stone Mtn
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Quote:
Alex I think the bike looks really nice but I am not sure if I like your statement: From the right angle and paint scheme....kind of like saying an ugly girl from the right lighting and enough beers.... |
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January 9th, 2012, 04:31 PM | #19 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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What can't beer fix?
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January 9th, 2012, 05:04 PM | #20 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Eric
Location: Murfreesboro, TN
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January 9th, 2012, 05:05 PM | #21 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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See, more beer fixes that as well.
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January 9th, 2012, 05:06 PM | #22 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Eric
Location: Murfreesboro, TN
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): '13 300 Posts: A lot.
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Somehow I knew that was comin
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February 8th, 2012, 11:14 AM | #23 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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Reason #6 why a centerstand can be useful:
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February 8th, 2012, 12:09 PM | #25 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Ms.T, Queen of the Night
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 938
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Lucky you. German engineering. Gotta say that with the right accent and it sounds very sexy. That bike is awesome.
I have my hopes pinned to the BMW gs models some day. The 650 uses a detuned 800 engine and I can touch the ground! I'm going to do the Great Lakes 1000 when I can. Have a map on my wall as a wishing wall. I even have the bike, a very small version being ridden across my TV table by Mr.Sinister. LOL! |
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February 8th, 2012, 12:13 PM | #26 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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Looks like Mr. Sinister is rocking a mini R1200GS Adventure, we need to find you one of the parallel twins (F800/650).
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February 8th, 2012, 05:30 PM | #27 |
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February 8th, 2012, 06:37 PM | #28 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: T
Location: U.S.
Join Date: May 2010 Motorcycle(s): Current: '11 ZX-6R; Previous: '09 Ninjette; '08 ZX-6R (Ex-Wife '09 TU250X) Posts: 981
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That woman's back looks like it is about to snap in half. That is actually surprisingly unappealing to me. It really distracts from the bike.
@Alex: I don't like you anymore, sir. I would LOVE a K1600.
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February 8th, 2012, 06:56 PM | #29 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Jeff
Location: PA
Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): 08 R6 Posts: 224
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They have one in the showroom at the local BMW dealership. I had a seat on it, was verrrry comfy and full of tech, but lifting it up off the side stand the thing was HEAVY.
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February 11th, 2012, 01:54 PM | #30 | |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Ms.T, Queen of the Night
Location: Ontario, Canada
Join Date: Jun 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Ninja 250 Posts: 938
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Quote:
Only male gymnasts have center stands. |
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February 11th, 2012, 02:19 PM | #31 |
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February 12th, 2012, 12:24 AM | #32 |
#squid
Name: nickypoo
Location: Five Guys
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Track dedicated 2008 ZX6R Posts: A lot.
MOTM - Jul '16
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Funniest. Thread. Ever.
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February 25th, 2012, 06:18 PM | #33 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
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Just got an update from the dealer today, my bike's on the boat! Will be landing on the East Coast around March 12th, and it takes another week or two by truck to end up out west. Should have it before the end of March!
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February 25th, 2012, 07:28 PM | #34 |
1/4 English, 3/4 Kick Ass
Name: Jeremy
Location: Dayton, OH
Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2002 Triumph Speed Triple 955i, '05 Suzuki SV650S(retired), '11 Ninja 250R(sold) Posts: A lot.
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Hot Dawg man!!! Can't wait for pics and your review.
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February 25th, 2012, 07:40 PM | #35 |
#squid
Name: nickypoo
Location: Five Guys
Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Track dedicated 2008 ZX6R Posts: A lot.
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Hooray! Can't wait
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February 25th, 2012, 11:44 PM | #36 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
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February 26th, 2012, 12:28 AM | #37 | |
Avid Kitteh Poster
Name: Justin
Location: Norcal
Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Yamaha TTR 50 SUCK IT Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
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I powdercoat stuff Help me pay for my addiction I say funny stuff. http://twitter.com/JustinPWNSyou sometimes... I write like a 12 year old too, http://justinpwnsyou.wordpress.com/ |
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February 26th, 2012, 01:02 PM | #38 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
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awwwwh @massacremasses where's the love man??? Don't lie justin. You know that you laughed.
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February 26th, 2012, 01:54 PM | #39 |
Always.
Name: Alex
Location: Calgary, AB
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): '08 Ninja 250, '05 GSX-R600 Posts: A lot.
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That yellow bike is simply amazing!
I want to go test some bikes this season. Although the harley dealership said you have to be 19 for demo days on there bikes, is this the same for all dealers? I know im in canada and you in the states, but would you have any ideas?
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blink-182 |
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March 23rd, 2012, 12:03 AM | #40 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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Just got a call tonight; it's in the country and on a truck heading west.
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