R1100R for a big guy?
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R1100R for a big guy?
I have found a '96 R1100R ABS for sale ($3500- 40,000 miles) and am very interested in the bike, but my concern is that it wont fit well for my big frame on longer rides. I am 6'3" and about 245lbs, I am concerned that when I go for a test ride it will feel good but be cramped after I get used to the bike. Any advice would be appreciated since I dont want to buy and regret. Thanks
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civicblade
- Basic User
- Posts: 17
- Joined: Sat May 24, 2008 9:17 am
Re: R1100R for a big guy?
I'm 6.0ft and 231lb. I find the R1100R's handlebars position a little too upright. On long rides, your back and spine is taking most of your body's weight as your arms aren't loaded with any weight at all.
Overall, I still find the sitting position on the roadster as very neutral and good for handling.
I've had the sit in the uppermost position and I almost place both my feet flat on the ground at the lights.
My friend with the R11GS fitted risers for the handle bars and the arms placement is now almost the same as the R11R. But the overall weight of the machine + rider sits high with the GS and perhaps stability and handling for the roadster will be better?
Overall, I still find the sitting position on the roadster as very neutral and good for handling.
I've had the sit in the uppermost position and I almost place both my feet flat on the ground at the lights.
My friend with the R11GS fitted risers for the handle bars and the arms placement is now almost the same as the R11R. But the overall weight of the machine + rider sits high with the GS and perhaps stability and handling for the roadster will be better?
Re: R1100R for a big guy?
As mentioned, the handlebar position will likely be too close and too narrow. You can remedy the situation with an aftermarket 22mm handlebar and clamps that attach to the R1100 top Telelever clamp.
The plus for you is the adjustable seat on the R850/1100R bikes. We've had an R850R and an R1100R, and the seat height adjustment helps with ergonimic fine tuning.
I think both of these sources had the handlebar adapter kit once upon a time:
http://www.suburban-machinery.com/index.htm
http://www.moto-techniques.com/
These guys probably have you covered with their Superbike kit:
http://www.spieglerusa.com/cfm/sbk.cfm
Manufacturer Model Year PartNumber Type Note Retail
BMW R 850R/1100R - 96 Z120B019 AP AMB1 $239.00

You can also get a footpeg lowering kit for the bike, but with a loss in some cornering clearance.
For reference, I'm 6ft. - 250ish, shorter legs and long torso. I rode my first 1k mile Iron Butt on the R1100R, after buying the bike out of state for my wife.
The plus for you is the adjustable seat on the R850/1100R bikes. We've had an R850R and an R1100R, and the seat height adjustment helps with ergonimic fine tuning.
I think both of these sources had the handlebar adapter kit once upon a time:
http://www.suburban-machinery.com/index.htm
http://www.moto-techniques.com/
These guys probably have you covered with their Superbike kit:
http://www.spieglerusa.com/cfm/sbk.cfm
Manufacturer Model Year PartNumber Type Note Retail
BMW R 850R/1100R - 96 Z120B019 AP AMB1 $239.00

You can also get a footpeg lowering kit for the bike, but with a loss in some cornering clearance.
For reference, I'm 6ft. - 250ish, shorter legs and long torso. I rode my first 1k mile Iron Butt on the R1100R, after buying the bike out of state for my wife.
Re: R1100R for a big guy?
If you look for a BMW GSA (Adventure) all problems will be solved... 
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babulin2002
- Basic User
- Posts: 70
- Joined: Wed Feb 08, 2006 8:31 am
Re: R1100R for a big guy?
i'm 193 cm, 94 kg and have to say i like the original handlebars better than the gs-like wide one. the bike is '94 r1100r. i had a superbike-kit on it and i sold it, sticking to the originals. i have the seat in the uppermost position. it is true that for a long rides the back gets tired, but i think that is normal when you sit for hours without any back support, am not sure if leaning on your hands would be much more comfortable. i use supporting belts for the back to help me sit straight for longer trips and it works for me. i like the compact feeling of the original handlebars and the resulting handling of tha machine, tried the new r1200r and have to say i like mine much better
the leg space is also enough for me without any modifications.
Re: R1100R for a big guy?
Thank you for the replys and links. I am trying to inform myself as much as possible before I buy. I am supposed to test ride this weekend, if all goes well then you will be hearing from me more.
Thanks
By the way is that price sound right for this bike?
Thanks
By the way is that price sound right for this bike?