Wet Head HP loss at elevation

[Kunkies]

Late spring I'll be venturing out to the Rocky Mountains on my '14 R1200RT.  Given our boxers are naturally aspirated, does anyone have any experience with HP loss at 5K', 6K-12K' above sea level?


Thanks,

[simbo]

Went to the Pyrenees last year doing roads around 6 to 7k above sea level and had absolutely no issues whatsoever.

[David.]

Has anyone done the Stelvio Pass in Italy on a Wethead, that is 9K feet above sea level.

My wheezey old 2010 Camhead didn't experience any issues.

[Doctor T]

I've done the Stelvio pass and the Pyrenees a few times. BMW bikes ive used K75, R80, and an RT. i experienced no engine problems at all.

[emlevy]

I live in Colorado at 8000’ elevation, routinely ride at 10,000-12,000’, and have had my RT to over 14,000’ on several occasions. Absolutely no issues with power loss (though I’m sure there is some) and you’ll be amazed at the improvement in your gas mileage. There are a few gas stations selling non-ethanol gas if that concerns you, but normal high octane pump gas up here is 91 octane, not 93 or 95. It works fine. Don’t sweat it.

I’ve ridden all over the Alps (Stelvio, Timmelsjoch, Grossglockner) and the elevation of those passes is nothing compared to what you’ll routinely ride out here.

Please keep in mind that most high passes in Colorado and Wyoming (Independence, Guanella, Cottonwood, Milner, Battle, plus Mt. Evans) have winter closures and don’t reopen until after Memorial Day, so if your “late spring” trip will have you out here before then, you may be disappointed.