R1150r or Rockster

Jonny_L · Post by **Jonny_L** » Mon May 01, 2006 10:27 am

Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum.
After taking a test ride on an R1150R this morning, I've decided it's definately the bike for me, so i'm sure you'll all be seeing more of me from now on!

I'm looking at 2 different bikes tomorrow. one's a 2002 R1150r, and ones a 2004 Rockster, both around the same price, tho the rockster doesn't have ABS.

What are the differences between the models? From what i can see, it's just different lights, and different colours. or is there more to it than that?
I'm gonna be using the bike for a weekend fun and a bit of touring.
Any opinions welcome.
Thanks, Jonny

beemerphile · Post by **beemerphile** » Mon May 01, 2006 10:47 am

Given this pair, I'd get the Roc. The 2004 will be twin spark, the 2002 single. The Roc will have a wider rear tire and a neater front suspension. I also prefer NOT to have the servo ABS. I am not against ABS, just the BMW servo rendition of it (flame suit on). - Lee

Jonny_L · Post by **Jonny_L** » Mon May 01, 2006 12:05 pm

I see, thanks. The one I tried this morning was a newer one (05 i think), so that would've been twin spark too. does it make a big difference then?

I've read mixed reviews on the servo ABS, and since the rockster's got slightly bigger front discs anyway, i'm sure it'd be fine.
The rockster's got 12,000 miles on but it's approved used BMW, the R1150r's got 6,000 miles, from a local (non BMW) dealer. I'm sure being beemers, they're both just worn in anyway!

I'm tempted by the rockster, as it's got hand protectors, a taller screen and hard luggage, over R1150r.
Is there any difference in seating position/comfort at all?

Post by **DJ Downunder** » Mon May 01, 2006 12:09 pm

As much as I love the Roadster if it was me..I'd get the Rockster for sure...for many reasons...including.

the newer twin spark engine
better forks and suspension
self canceling indicators
newer sealed battery
lower handle bar
higher seat
no beak
no ABS
lower miles (maybe)

but then..have a close look..and see which one has been looked after the best.

Good luck with it and let us know how you go.

DJ

drevil · Post by **drevil** » Mon May 01, 2006 12:37 pm

Rockster baby!!!

chris · Post by **chris** » Mon May 01, 2006 1:23 pm

Jonny_L wrote:
Is there any difference in seating position/comfort at all?

Hi,
The roc seat is higher than the roadster as standard, bit sportier, maybe more weight on the wrists? Brakes are the same size on both models and will stop you with ease. I just got the roadster on an 03 plate with twin spark. Goes like a train! You'll just have to test them all till you find the one you like!

Croc · Post by **Croc** » Mon May 01, 2006 1:37 pm

Hi
I have the R but with the choice of those you are looking at I would have to go with the Rock - for the reasons above. (Or wait for the yet-to-be-announced R1200R

)

Croc

peterbulgar · Post by **peterbulgar** » Mon May 01, 2006 1:44 pm

I was used to 30-year-old bikes with very weak brakes, so I wanted ABS and in late 2003 purchased a new ('04) R1150RA (ABS). If you are used to dual-disc front brakes from other bikes, and you feel that the ABS would be of limited benefit, I'd say go with the Rockster for the following reasons:
1) I don't know if the '02 R1150R has the servo power brakes. If it does, they are annoyingly grabby at low speeds.
2) Many people report surging problems at small throttle openings with the single-spark engine. There are very few reports of surging with the twin-spark.
3) The slightly larger 180/55 rear tire on the Rockster is probably of only marginal benefit in terms of handling. However, if you need a new tire in the middle of a tour, you are more likely to find the more common 180/55 than the 170/60 that's on the Roadster.
4) The system cases are great for traveling, and the Rockster you are looking at has them.
5) My knees were cramped with the standard low seat that came with my Roadster. I installed the tall seat, which is stock on the Rockster.
peter '73 R75/5, '04 R1150RA

bmerchant · Post by **bmerchant** » Mon May 01, 2006 2:14 pm

Johnny

As far as I understand, the bikes are quite different in geometry. I haven't checked personally, but I believe the Rockster is much like the R1100S in characteristics. The R is a bit more conservative.

As for surging on single spark, that wasn't such a problem this side of the Atlantic - better fuel or something. I've had both and can't tell them apart.

As for brakes, the earlier power brakes weren't linked IIRC. Some reckon that's better, but again, I've had both and can't really say I could tell.

My dealer has a Rocksetr as a loaner and it is a hoot, but for me the riding position is a bit more comfortable on the R. YMMV.

Buy with your heart!

Post by **duke** » Mon May 01, 2006 3:54 pm

Not that I have tried R1150R - but go Rockster!!! If not for any of the technical stuff - at least for the looks! (OK - the R1150R is also beautiful, just I like the Rockster more)

chris · Post by **chris** » Mon May 01, 2006 4:05 pm

If that rockster is the orange and black one I'm looking at on SLM site it looks a belter. Datatool alarm as well. Hmm, a bargain. 12k miles is nothing to these engines and it should have just been fully serviced. Buy it before somebody else does and spend the weekends grinning like a fool!

Jonny_L · Post by **Jonny_L** » Mon May 01, 2006 4:26 pm

chris wrote:If that rockster is the orange and black one I'm looking at on SLM site it looks a belter. Datatool alarm as well. Hmm, a bargain. 12k miles is nothing to these engines and it should have just been fully serviced. Buy it before somebody else does and spend the weekends grinning like a fool!

Thats the one! hope you're not thinking of buying it too!

Thanks for all the comments guys, I'll give them a call in the morning and check it out. I'm hoping it'll be right for me, I think they look brilliant. Plus the approved bmw thing is quite appealing for that one. Hope they've still got it!

I must say, i'm really after the comfort side of things at the moment, i've had a CBR600 for a while now, and i'm getting fed up with aches and pains from riding, so I'll have to see. either way, i'll let you all know, it'll be a boxer for sure, I love those engines!

chris · Post by **chris** » Mon May 01, 2006 4:41 pm

No I'm not after it! Like I said it looks great and with the AU warranty and service you're sorted for another 6000 miles so nothing to do but play. I had 4 CBR600's and when I was looking for another bike this time none of the jap inline 4 stuff was doing anything for me so it was time for a change and what a revelation! Sooo much grunt!

Post by **machew01** » Mon May 01, 2006 5:30 pm

Jonny, as Peter said, don't ignore the system (hard) cases that come with the Rockster. Know what it would cost to buy system cases and the mounting hardware. They are very expensive, but a good value, and could change the financial part of your decision.

mac

AlbertJohnson · Post by **AlbertJohnson** » Mon May 01, 2006 6:05 pm

as of a week ago, they have that orange and black Rockster in Chandler, Az...Victory BMW...don't know the price.

Rog(UK) - Yorkshire Dales · Mon May 01, 2006 6:20 pm

Hi Jonny, If you are anything like me, you will be wanting decent images to view so that you can make a decision. I've taken quite a few photos of my 2004 Orange/black Rockster. If you want them, just e-mail me at [email protected]

Rog

Post by **sweatmark** » Mon May 01, 2006 7:39 pm

Roadster or Rockster? Tough question...

We've got one of each - 2002 Roadster, 2004 Rockster (and an R1100R).
The bikes are similar in many advantageous respects: mechanical integrity, usable torque & motor resonse, ability to tour when equipped.

The differences between the R1150R models, though, are more than meets the eye... I put 15k miles on the Roadster, touring AND thrashing in twisties with sticky Corsa rubber (and no, it's obviously not a GSXR-beater), and I still claim the Roadster's the best all-round bike I've ever owned. Since I've yet to tempt myself with an R1200GS test ride, my love for the single-spark Roadster remains true.

So why did I get myself the Rockster? Well, partly the 'bling' factor (freakish Euro paint, R1100S bits, squinting headlights), and partly 'cause it fits my ergonomics just a touch better... the reach to the lower, wider bars suits my Franken-long torso. Oh, and also because my wife began coveting my Roadster during her first year of motorcycling on the R1100R.

Overall, everyday use, I claim the Roadster handles better. For sportier, afternoon riding, the Rockster's my choice.

Mark
Oregon

Jonny_L · Post by **Jonny_L** » Tue May 02, 2006 7:25 am

Thanks for the replies, some very interesting points being made here.
I just went to try the rockster. Unfortunately the one with the panniers was gone already (thought it might), but i got to try a black and white anniversary edition with 5000 miles nearly stock, and they've got a slightly cheaper green one with 10,000 on, but with a remus can, high screen and mounts for panniers. Nice bikes, although I found the seat to be a bit harder, and the bars were slightly on the low side.
Is there anywhere in the uk that makes/supplies better seats for them?

I reckon with a seat and some bar raisers, it'd be perfect.
I figured i'll go and check out the roadster anyway. unfortunately nobody wants to budge on price. I was hoping on trading the cbr and paying Ã‚Â£1500, but looks more like Ã‚Â£2000 now.
There goes my plans for a sat nav and textiles

Jonny_L · Post by **Jonny_L** » Tue May 02, 2006 9:52 am

SORTED!

Just to update you all, i've opted for the rockster. I've gone for the white anniversary edition, and I'll be collecting it at the end of next week. We agreed that he'd take the cbr for Ã‚Â£3000, but i could try and sell it privately for now, to see what comes of it.
I suppose i've posted this in the wrong topic section now then!

As i said, you'll probably be seeing a lot more of me now

Oh next friday is soooo far away!
Anyone wanna buy a cbr?!![/b]

Post by **DJ Downunder** » Tue May 02, 2006 10:34 am

Great news...congrats...FYI...one odd thing about the ED80 is that it came out without a center stand...just wondering if it has one.

DJ