Need advice on LOW SEAT option for r 1200RT

[freyguy17]

Methos1979...I have not picked up the bike yet (I ended up buying a used 2015 model, with 12K miles, for about 6000 US dollars cheaper than an equivalent new one !) I was NO aware of any seat adjustment when I road the bike, nor am I sure what suspension setting the bike was on.  I was concentrating ONLY on riding it safely, without any mishaps, and was nervous about any "rider error" while I was testing.  SO...maybe the stock standard seat will work out fine, after all.  I am getting a new rear Michelin installed before I pick up the bike; I don't like worn treads !

[Methos1979]

Methos1979...I have not picked up the bike yet (I ended up buying a used 2015 model, with 12K miles, for about 6000 US dollars cheaper than an equivalent new one !) I was NO aware of any seat adjustment when I road the bike, nor am I sure what suspension setting the bike was on.  I was concentrating ONLY on riding it safely, without any mishaps, and was nervous about any "rider error" while I was testing.  SO...maybe the stock standard seat will work out fine, after all.  I am getting a new rear Michelin installed before I pick up the bike; I don't like worn treads !

I'd ask them to test ride either their demo again or your bike when you pick it up with the stock seat in both positions as well as a low seat in both positions. Then you'll know. My dealer had no problem swapping out the stock standard seat with a low option and then back again.

[wethead]

low seat problem will not be the heater, it will be your but discomfort. ANY low seat you buy is going to be on the 'hard' side.

[freyguy17]

Wethead: I agree with you (at least with my V Strom Suzuki) that a factory low seat is less comfortable than the standard seat.  However, at my age (64) I am obsessed with SAFETY and my ability to maneuver at slow speeds and at stops.  So, safety trumps comfort for me.  In addition, I rarely, if ever, ride more than 2 hours at a stretch...if that.  I bought an R1200RT primarily because 1) I have always wanted to own a BMW, and 2) I can finally afford it.

[wethead]

I get the picture.


I too like to 'sit inside the bike'; not on top like these we own. However, the previous RT I had with a low seat of my choice broke my butt from Seattle to CA.


Because I do long tours, I have come to accept these 'seats in the clouds'  type of arrangements in order to have a comfy seat.


I don't understand why BMW does not design a touring seating position instead of these crotch rockets ergonomics.


I ll just tell ya, the best low seat ever made for me was made by Seth Laam Seats....as low seats go, that was the most comfy I ever experienced

[Casbar]

Because I do long tours, I have come to accept these 'seats in the clouds'  type of arrangements in order to have a comfy seat.


I don't understand why BMW does not design a touring seating position instead of these crotch rockets ergonomics.

The clue is in the style of bike "Sports Tourer" Not Cruiser. Its not a Harley.

[pkpilot]

I am 5'6" and have a 2015 1200 RT wth the stock seat.  I tried a BMW low seat for 2 days, but could not stand it.  The regular seat in a low position is much more comfortable. They guy who was selling got a Sargent low seat and really liked it. The BMW low seat had heat. Customs seats usually have it as an option...

[JudgeDredd]

Just picked up a new RT a couple of weeks ago and had requested a low seat. Dealer collected the low heated seat from the parts department and fitted it when I collected the bike, so it's definitely available - used it yesterday and it really works. The seat is definitely wider than the GS I had previously; I've got a 26" inside leg, but can get both toes, or one foot down!

[wethead]

Just picked up a new RT a couple of weeks ago and had requested a low seat. Dealer collected the low heated seat from the parts department and fitted it when I collected the bike, so it's definitely available - used it yesterday and it really works. The seat is definitely wider than the GS I had previously; I've got a 26" inside leg, but can get both toes, or one foot down!

I have a friend who is also 'reach-the-ground-challenged-on-an-RT'. What he did was have a shoe repair dude put extra height on his riding boots. Now, he is able to use a RDL seat, which adds even more height to the bike.


anyways, just trying to help.

[freyguy17]

Well, I bought a low seat from BMW of San Francisco, sat on it for a few minutes, then sent it right back ! Way too uncomfortable !
The ability to get both feet flat on the ground was my original intention, but I would have to give up way too much comfort.  So, I am sticking with the stock "medium" seat.

[guest3074]

Well, I bought a low seat from BMW of San Francisco, sat on it for a few minutes, then sent it right back ! Way too uncomfortable !
The ability to get both feet flat on the ground was my original intention, but I would have to give up way too much comfort.  So, I am sticking with the stock "medium" seat.

I too have been down that road, it would be nice to flat foot and make it easier should I need to back up a little, but it's something you get used to 

[wethead]

Every low seat I ever had was uncomfortable as allhell

[guest2360]

Had the OEM low seat on my LC for the last 10K.  I'm now it's shape so it's comfortable. You can't judge anything in a day.