BMW R1200RT - Long-Term Test Intro

The same BMW R1200RT we road tested this past April—a fully loaded model equipped with the Premium Package and options such as a lighted top case with an LED brake light ($1,796)—has joined our long-term test fleet. We're stoked to learn more about the new techno-packed RT, which is based on the GS's steel frame and is powered by a liquid-cooled boxer engine with a heavier crank and alternator. The counterbalanced twin, with vertical-flow heads, still revs quickly but is smoother, and it pulls beautifully from third gear even when you're trundling around slow corners in the city.

Gear Shift Assist Pro, a $475 option, allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts. Clutchless shifting from first to second or vice versa is not particularly smooth, due to the wider gap between ratios, but all other shifts are silky and quick. And as you go down through the gears, GSAP blips the throttle, smoothing decel and making it look like you really know how to ride.

At 3,102 miles, there are no problems to report, only satisfaction. This is a bike that weighs about 160 pounds less than a K1600GTL, yet it has an impressive load capacity of 462 pounds. Also, the stillness behind the large electrically adjustable screen is a great place to experiment with the multiple riding modes and load settings, which we'll report upon later.

_Editor's Note: On June 9, BMW repossessed our long-term R1200RT because of a potential problem with the rear shock absorber.

Here's the official word, straight from BMW: "BMW Motorrad USA is notifying all owners of the current R1200RT, model year 2014, fitted with the Dynamic ESA option that there is a potential defect in the rear spring strut. At the present time it cannot be ruled out that the piston rod of the rear spring strut in connection with the Dynamic ESA option could potentially fail. For this reason, customers are not to ride their motorcycle until further notice. This is a precautionary measure which BMW Motorrad is taking in the interests of customer safety based on a supplier report. To date, there have been no injuries related to this issue. Approximately 804 vehicles are affected by this advisory in the US. A technical campaign is in preparation to replace the part in question. Customers who have any questions about this campaign are instructed to contact their authorized BMW motorcycle dealer. Should they require any additional assistance, they may also contact BMW Customer Relations and Services at 1-800-525-7417, or via Email at CustomerService@bmwmotorcycles.com."

We hope to be back on our R1200RT very soon._