Trying to choose an R1200RT

[cssh0599]

Hi,

My name is Steve, I live in Glossop in the Peak District (about 10 miles form Manchester)

I am looking at my next bike and do like the R1200RT. I understand they are great for pillions, as my wife has found other bikes uncomfortable.

I am looking at 2005 - 2008 models that seem to have between 30K - 40K miles on them.

Interested to hear from anyone that has bought a similar aged and mileage, as to how reliable they have been, and if there are any particular problems / issues to look out for with this model. There is an independent BMW garage / service place not far from me, so should be fine for getting things done, but just looking to avoid buy a "money pit" which I have done in the past with other bikes.

Many thanks for your help, all advice gratefully received.

Many thanks
Steve

[David.]

I am looking at 2005 - 2008 models that seem to have between 30K - 40K miles on them.

I had a 2007 model from new which was traded in after 3 years and ~ 38K miles so similar to what you are looking for.

At ~ 10K miles, mine suffered from a partial seizure of both cylinders. Apparently, at the time, BMW were investigating a problem with the supply of pistons, believed to be the problem. I seem to remember the front discs being changed; I think this was due to the way they were mounted to the wheel. My bike didn't have servo brakes which I believe the pre-2007 models did and are apparently best avoided.

On a bike with 30K - 40K miles, you would hope that problems like those above don't exist or have been addressed.
A full service history is always something desirable.

[cssh0599]

Hi David, thanks for your reply. I am going to look at one tomorrow that is one owner from new and full service history, so hopefully issues mentioned will of been dealt with, as you say

[David.]

The bike being fitted with a front fender extender from new is a bonus. It protects the exhaust system and front engine casing.

Is the bike fitted with a stainless steel or chrome plated exhaust system. Mine had a s/s system which could be polished more easily than chrome. Looking under the bike and particularly at the exhaust system IMO, will give a good indication of whether the bike has been cared for with TLC.

[cssh0599]

Hi, thanks. Not sure which exhaust it has, but will take a tour h and try and have a good look round it.

[David.]

If you know the bike registration number, you can do an MOT History check, https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history

Another indication of how well the bike has been looked after and any advisories.

[cssh0599]

Hi, good idea, thank you.

Last MOT expired Oct 19. (Will come with 12 month MOT)

Every other MOT is a pass with no advisories.

So seems to have been looked after but been of road for last three years

[David.]

I've sent you a PM.

[Stu]

So seems to have been looked after but been of road for last three years

See that would make me tread a little carefully.

Check tyres and make sure its had a recent service and all fluid changed at the very least.

bikes like to be used and if not used things can deteriorate.

I wouldn't be worried on that mileage you can expect at least 3 times that on that engine.

[cssh0599]

Many thanks. The chap selling it runs a garage servicing and repairing BMW bikes, and has said it will be fully serviced. I will check the tyres.

Many thanks
Steve

[cssh0599]

I've sent you a PM.

I have replied.
Cheers