Comparing: 1200 vs 1150, or ChiTown's Bike Meets Texas

[spenserj87]

I found it a little difficult to modulate the 1200 in first gear. The throttle is very sensitive. Obviously that is most likely something to which I would become accustomed with time.

I just recently had my 2007 R1200R in for service - had the brake line recall fix (actually had the front brakes go out on me my last trip). I stupidly didn't take the bike in when I got the recall notice, but made it home fine with just a rear brake. They also fixed the key ring problem. Lastly, they did the latest software upgrade. I've noticed the throttle is much less jumpy - smooth and linear. Before it was much more abrupt throttle on and off - much more of a lurch when engine braking. I was used to the old way and kind of miss it a bit. But the engine/throttle response is much better overall - and even sounds a bit different. I wonder if Chitown's bike has the latest OS - it might have come out while he's been touring....glad to hear he will be back on the bike soon. I miss the trip reports. I've done some amazing CA rides lately (south of Hollister, Hwy 198, Hwy 25, Panoche Rd, Carmel Valley Rd being my most recent) and I admit I haven't posted a trip report because I can't meet the standard set by Chitown. Maybe if I get some time over the holiday break.

[GypsyRR]

I found it a little difficult to modulate the 1200 in first gear. The throttle is very sensitive. Obviously that is most likely something to which I would become accustomed with time.

........................... Lastly, they did the latest software upgrade. I've noticed the throttle is much less jumpy - smooth and linear. Before it was much more abrupt throttle on and off - much more of a lurch when engine braking. I was used to the old way and kind of miss it a bit. But the engine/throttle response is much better overall - and even sounds a bit different. I wonder if Chitown's bike has the latest OS - it might have come out while he's been touring....glad to hear he will be back on the bike soon. I miss the trip reports................

I didn't ask him. But, I attributed it to the fact that it was a 'new to me' bike and a borrowed bike that I was riding. And I didn't stay in first gear much.

However, before going on the long ride, I took it to a vacant parking lot to get use to the ABS brakes since I don't have them on my 1150, and I also wanted to just get use to it's handling and maneuvering before riding it very far or going off road. It was the slow figure eights in the parking lot where I found the throttle a little more touchy than my 1150. I found it harder to go slower on the 12 in first gear. BUT - it also has much more power than my 1150 in each gear, and I was just getting use to it. That's what I attributed that throttle response to.

Honestly, I wouldn't put too much credence in my review of the finer points, really. I'm no expert, and I didn't spend enough time on the bike in various situations to do a true comparison. And certainly it was not a 'scientific' type comparison - just a fun one. Plus, I'm just so use to my bike and don't have the money to put down on a 1200R, so I had to try to convince myself that the differences were not enough for me to buy one.................. yet. The Alpine White one is beautiful though. Put a pink pin stripe on it, and I'd be set!!!



kidding, of course



ChiTown - what about the latest software update? Did you have it done yet?

[Lost Rider]

I wonder if Chitown's bike has the latest OS - it might have come out while he's been touring....glad to hear he will be back on the bike soon. I miss the trip reports. I've done some amazing CA rides lately (south of Hollister, Hwy 193, Hwy 25, Panoche Rd, Carmel Valley Rd being my most recent) and I admit I haven't posted a trip report because I can't meet the standard set by Chitown. Maybe if I get some time over the holiday break.

I don't know if Denver BMW did the software upgrade...
As for reports, I don't want anyone to feel like that... I'm just a young, single, crazy guy who rides in fun places, some of the time places I really shouldn't when alone, or going faster than I should. I wouldn't expect someone with a family to do what I do sometimes... this motorcycle forum is about sharing all of our experiences, not about competition. Post you ride, everyone's reports are what's helped keep me sane for the last 6 months.
BTW, there's kind of a new report on my site from a short trip around Denver a month ago. While I did enjoy the time in the mountains, I didn't find it to be too exciting of a 1 day ride report so I didn't post it.

-Joe

[spenserj87]

Joe - I was being a bit tongue-in-cheek. Truth is, I'm a bit lazy (or is it too busy with real work) and I'm not sure any of my weekender trips are much to write about. But I did highlight the recent Hollister trip because I've lived in CA all but three years of my 44 year life (3 years in Chicago) and I never realized there were good riding roads (and scenery) from Hollister to Coalinga CA. I've got the bug now; 2 to 3 day riding/camping trips are a nice getaway and there is quite a bit of variety in NorCal if I'm willing to slab it on the highway sometimes (I'm spoiled riding around the foothills north/east of Sacramento).

I look forward to reading about your future travels. Maybe when my kids are grown up I'll plan a cross-country trip.

-D

[Dr. Strangelove]

and as has been stated before

"pink is the new Black."

[Ves]

... The Alpine White one is beautiful though. Put a pink pin stripe on it, and I'd be set!!!



kidding, of course



ChiTown - what about the latest software update? Did you have it done yet?

Not enough pink.... here you go:

[Lost Rider]

Joe - I was being a bit tongue-in-cheek.
-D

sorry I missed it... have the flu on top of having 2 root canals done yesterday, in the middle of 8 shows in a row... not really thinking all that straight.
I like the white/ pink Roadster...

[Lost Rider]

Pink is hot!

Here's my ride on tour... with pink gaff tape and safety light!

[Biff's R]

The only thing wrong with my footpegs, is wearing down of the topside from 27,000 miles of use.

Gypsy, swap the front and rear rubber on the top of the footpegs. It is 2 bolts each on the bottom of the pegs. It does give you better foot grip.

Thanks for posting this report, and thak you Chitown for letting someone else tool around on your bike.