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#1 | Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Fri Oct 12, 2018 11:46 pm

I'm considering getting an older RT to keep the RS clean during the winter, and keep myself warm and comfortable behind that big screen and fairing.

Anybody here got experience with the 2005-2009 "Hexhead" or the 2010-2013 "Camhead" boxers? Already found out the Camheads are more civilized and have the modern BMW switch-gear (like our RS'es), so they seem the ones to have preferably.

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#2 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 2:57 pm

Zitat von Gaucho im Beitrag #1
have the modern BMW switch-gear (like our RS'es), so they seem the ones to have preferably.

You mean the cheap...�...one button turn signals?

IMHO, the two button turn signals were one of the best BMW concepts.

Old Forum Orphan

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#3 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 3:09 pm

Zitat von Mr. 36654 im Beitrag #2
Zitat von Gaucho im Beitrag #1
have the modern BMW switch-gear (like our RS'es), so they seem the ones to have preferably.

You mean the cheap...�...one button turn signals?

IMHO, the two button turn signals were one of the best BMW concepts.

Actually, I have always preferred the three-button turn signal system - once I got used to it. My 2009 F650GS has that system and I find it easier to use than the "cheap one-button signal" system on my RS.

Current motorcycle collection: 2002 Yamaha FZ1; 2005 Triumph Bonneville T-100; 2011 Royal Enfield Bullet 500; 2009 BMW F650GS; 2016 BMW R1200RS; 2011 Zero S 16.6 kWh

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#4 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 3:42 pm

Where was the third button??????

Old Forum Orphan

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#5 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 4:30 pm

Zitat von Mr. 36654 im Beitrag #4
Where was the third button??????

One for left turn, one for right turn and one for cancel.

Lee
2016 R1200RS
Iowa, USA

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#6 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 4:32 pm

Zitat von Mr. 36654 im Beitrag #4
Where was the third button??????

The left button operates the left signal, the right one operates the right signal and a button on the right grip housing directly above that one, cancels both signals. And if you push both buttons at the same time both signals would come on as a parking hazard flasher. Pushing the cancel button turns off both signals. While that might seem complicated, you will find that very little movement of your thumbs can operate the buttons, whereas operating the one-button system requires more movement of your right thumb and takes a little more effort and more precise placement of your thumb.

Current motorcycle collection: 2002 Yamaha FZ1; 2005 Triumph Bonneville T-100; 2011 Royal Enfield Bullet 500; 2009 BMW F650GS; 2016 BMW R1200RS; 2011 Zero S 16.6 kWh

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#7 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 4:43 pm

Zitat von Richard230 im Beitrag #6
While that might seem complicated, you will find that very little movement of your thumbs can operate the buttons, whereas operating the one-button system requires more movement of your right thumb and takes a little more effort and more precise placement of your thumb.

I agree, the three buttons required very little thumb movement and were easy to feel even with thick gloves.
The new turn signal is a long reach over the wonder wheel.
If you're sitting at a stop with the clutch in and decide to use the turn signal, it can be difficult to reach.

Lee
2016 R1200RS
Iowa, USA

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#8 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 4:44 pm (Last edited: Sat Oct 13, 2018 5:09 pm)

I recall the TS buttons being rocker switches, but pictures prove me wrong...two separate buttons on each side. Push the bottom button to activate the TS. Push-up on the right to cancel.

I recalled the right switch being a rocker....my bad.

I only rode like that from 1986 until 2016. Why should I correctly recall anything about it.

Old Forum Orphan

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#9 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 10:05 pm

Not quite on topic but I commuted into central London for 20 years on oilhead R1100/R1150 RT's covering 250,000 miles in all weathers with few issues but you do need good clothing which for me was Rukka. The bikes were remarkably reliable and were great even in the bad winter weather with snow and ice around. With regular home servicing I had no real problems and since retiring I still have my last R1150RT sitting alongside my R1200RS, R90s, and R75/5. You cant have too many bikes!

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#10 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 10:33 pm

Zitat von nj1052 im Beitrag #9
You cant have too many bikes!

Polygamy works for some folks, too. For me, choosing one from a flock, fleet, herd, harem, etc., means the others aren't good enough on that day. I'm not good with guilt.

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#11 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sat Oct 13, 2018 11:53 pm

Zitat von Mr. 36654 im Beitrag #2
Zitat von Gaucho im Beitrag #1
have the modern BMW switch-gear (like our RS'es), so they seem the ones to have preferably.

You mean the cheap...�...one button turn signals?

IMHO, the two button turn signals were one of the best BMW concepts.

All the comments about the buttons, I should have seen this one coming. I'm new to riding so I never had a BMW with the old buttons, so for me it is a strange concept. But if you have used it I can image you prefer it.

At a ride today had some conversations with RT riders, and the older 1200's are pretty good and reliable as well I learned. Next step to ride some RT's to see how they feel, but maybe I need to wait for autumn to really start, today was hot and sunny again so I was glad to have the reduced fairing of the RS! When it gets wet and windy the better wind protection will be nice.

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#12 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sun Oct 14, 2018 1:34 am

If you're primarily concerned with weather protection, the 1100cc Oilheads had a simpler ABS brake system without servo-assist. They're 90~95HP machines and pretty bullet proof. The simpler ABS system simplifies the time and cost of brake fluid changes.

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#13 | RE: Experiences with (pre-LC) RT boxers? datum

Sun Oct 14, 2018 3:05 am

Zitat von Gaucho im Beitrag #1
I'm considering getting an older RT to keep the RS clean during the winter, and keep myself warm and comfortable behind that big screen and fairing.

Anybody here got experience with the 2005-2009 "Hexhead" or the 2010-2013 "Camhead" boxers? Already found out the Camheads are more civilized and have the modern BMW switch-gear (like our RS'es), so they seem the ones to have preferably.

Gaucho - lest you never get an answer to your question