New Member Introductions » New member, same old story!

Nice to join such an esteemed group of two-wheel fanatics!

I've been on two wheels since '68, I too got back in the saddle when my son bought a bike. July, 2021, on spec not brand, I bought a '16 F800GT and have added 13K to the clock. Those familiar with F's know where my user name "Chug" originated! John Deere could have built that engine!

I spent most of my early touring days on middle weight bikes and feel that the F800 is an ideal ride to re-acclimate. Sufficient power to weight, economical, quick handling. That said, nearing retirement and having the time to distance ride again, I am studying and shopping to step up to an RS.

Currently debating buying new or used, plus battling a serious irrational thought of getting an '01-'04 K1200RS. With all the sage wisdom and wit of this group, how might you suggest I resolve my new/used/classic quandary?

I have to say, I enjoyed my hour on the F800GT sans bags. I mean, how can someone who rode in '68 complain about 90 horse power? Next to the drive shaft, I consider the belt drive on the GT the next best option for long distances on pavement.

That said, the RS is a different animal - very pleased with the engineering and quality of the R1200/1250 RS. Every year since 2015, things have gotten a little better.

Depending on finances, you'll have plenty of used and perhaps new bikes from which to choose.

Going back to a 20 y-old model for longer distances would guarantee you some time wrenching - which is great, if that's an enjoyable part of your life at this point. Of course, the cost of preventive replacement of parts on a 20-y old bike might quickly put you in the range of a 3-4 year old bike that rides a lot better. Just a thought.

Have fun on the road to yet another bike.

My wife and I both had a 03 K1200RS. Smoothest bikes we have ever owned.
The K1200RS had similar power compared to the R1200/1250RS but the KRS was very heavy.
I liked the feel of the Servo brakes on the KRS but the Servo unit is very costly to repair.
The 1998 to 2001 KRS did not have Servo brakes or cruise control.
Service work like valve checks on the KRS is easy like the boxer RS.

No matter what you buy it's nice you're close the the Hill Country for good riding.
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The K1300S bags which are very similar to your GT bags can be modified to fit the R1200/1250RS.
You might want to keep those if you sell the GT.

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I'm with Lee. I have a K100RS which is the same as a bike I had in the 90s. I loved it then and toured a lot on it. Now, I find it 'h-e-a-v-y to steer but the power is still fun.
My '17 1200RS is in a differnent league handling wise. Its nimble, and surefooted without the weight. So youre 12KRS thought is irrational - the 1200RS has 20 more years development.
Plus anty 16 year old bike you buy will just be waiting to test your wallet. Bikes like the ABS are mega expensive to repair - but of course the bike itself is cheaper to buy.
If you want one emotionally ( or financially) then great but logically there is no reason.

Well, if you consider the F800 to have the grunt of a JD tractor, I think you'll find the R1200/1250 engine have the grunt of a Cat Dozer

I love this forum already! Seven knowledgeable and experienced points of view offering that a newer RS is a very smart choice, that little Chug may still be a keeper, and that a KRS could be a money pit but what an experience!

I'm all set. Now, how do I tell my wife she will need to park her Audi outside in the driveway?

Thanks, Lee.
I was wondering about that, there are a number of nice RS's for sale without bags. Is there an instruction on retrofitting the sport panniers to an RS?

Zitat von Chug im Beitrag #8

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park her Audi outside in the driveway?

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As long as the BMW is a bike, she can come back in the garage!

Zitat von Chug im Beitrag #8

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Seven knowledgeable and experienced points of view offering that a newer RS is a very smart choice

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Zitat von Chug im Beitrag #9

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Thanks, Lee.
I was wondering about that, there are a number of nice RS's for sale without bags. Is there an instruction on retrofitting the sport panniers to an RS?

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Update: Following your respected advice and bias, have a verbal agreement on an '18 R12RS!

Road trip on Dec. 2nd to verify and transact. Be nice having such a fine stablemate for Chug.

Would I need to update my user name to "Cat D6" to reflect the engine upgrade?

Chug works just fine. Welcome.