New potential owner, looking at an R100R today

[jamz]

Hi All,

I am going to look at a 99 R1100R with 90k miles, but full service records, replaced FD, and a few extras. I was not really in the market for an R bike, but saw this one and could not resist. Not sure if I should pull the trigger on it or wait for an F650gs. Most of my miles will be highway and 50mph commuting, so I'm thinking a milage eater would be a better bike than a dualsport, much as I like them.

Here's hoping for the best!

-James

[Railbender]

I've got both bikes and you are correct. If I just want to go from point A to point B the R1100R is the bike. My F650GS (single) can certainly do that also but the R1100R is a bit better at it. If there are some dirt roads included in the mix then the F650GS is the preferred ride.
I wasn't really looking for another bike when I bought my R1100R. It was available locally and the main reason I bought it was the 700W alternator. It allows me to use my heated jacket, pants, grips and aux lights with power to spare.

[jamz]

That's good to know. Saw the bike, it was better than I could have hoped. Except for the service records, which were only from the last couple of years, maybe 80k-90k. Either way, it had the FD replacement and a service or two on there.

Took it for a spin, brought back the fond old boxer memories- only with a much sharper more powerful, easier to ride machine. Hope to bring it home Monday!

[NedM]

James:

Do you know what the mileage was when the FD was replaced?

I'm considering a 1998 model with close to 40,000 miles on it and admit all the talk about FD failures has me worried.

In any event certainly hope you enjoy your new motorcycle and that it provides many years of service.

Ned

[jamz]

I believe it was replaced between 80k and 90k, I'd have to check the service record. They changed the FD oil, and noticed some metal shards in the oil, which is apparently an indicator of the FD riding off into the sunset, so they replaced it. I don't think the owner had any symptoms.

I did buy the bike, and it's wonderful!

[photonphil]

I just got a '98 R1100r with only 8600 miles on it. You are correct ,it is a wonderful bike. The more I ride it the more I like it.

[Ric]

I found it better for me to own an R12R and a KLX 250 that I immediately bored to 351. Although, I've ridden an F800GS and found it very comfortable; I could go anywhere on it and never get tired in the saddle. Loved it !!!