felt a bit of a difference between 09 and 2014

[LeonardoNYC]

Test drove 2014 R12R today. There's nothing I don't like about my 09 with 10K miles on it but the 14 felt stronger, tighter, pulled more from low RPMS. Maybe the tighter feeling was a new shock vs mine? I know you don't really get back money you put into upgraded things like shocks and such so is it worth it for a new shock for a grand to only delay the inevitable?

Not a huge diff and I do love my 09 but thinking if this is the last year of telelever and non liquid cooling, could be a good idea to pull the trigger. I have actually come to like the old style instrument cluster, very to the point and basic but the new cluster seems more thought out and thorough. Again not a huge diff. It will be a tough choice. Not sure why it's easy to get attached to a machine but I am quite attached to mine though if I did get the 14 I know I'd love it.

BMWs aren't amazing at holding value..they offered me $8500 for mine to trade in..KBB is about $9500 and saving on the sales tax with trading it in makes it almost a wash. If I hadn't test rode the 14 I'd be happy as a clam and still am. I usually prefer to get a previous year's R12R to save on depreciation and having a spanking new bike on the island of Manhattan isn't always the wisest thing as there's always a ding waiting around the corner. A bit easier to stomach when it's a gently used and well maintained bike.

Decisions...decisions...we shall see.

[1200bc]

My opinion is....you would probably be happy with a shock upgrade, which is something most owners are always pleased with(not a huge cash output). And, there are always mint condition R1200R's for sale if you want a newer one down the road. And, you may find that a future LC model may be an excellent bike that you desire. Seems you are still happy with the 09. I'd probably keep it a while longer until there is a great deal on an excellent condition newer one, or there is a big change in the model. The future R1200R might be amazing. Really nothing wrong with liquid cooled bikes. Just my thoughts.

[2wheels]

I believe the tighter feel is down to the redesigned and stronger front fork. I too had an '09 which I loved, but my '11 I love even more. It handles better, the engine is smoother, torquier and more responsive. Not a moments regret!

However, with the new model due next year, perhaps I would wait and see!