R1200RT Twin Cam (2010-2013)

[David.]

Beautiful part of Europe. [emoji106]

It was our second visit to the region.

[David.]

Review of my Bike

The reason for choosing this bike was to give me an all-round “scratching and touring” machine that was also suitable for a pillion.

The bike needed to be comfortable but have good performance.

Does it deliver? For me, yes it does.

The performance gives a manageable power delivery with plenty of torque.

The upright riding position provides good visibility down the road and is kind on the back.

The SE model has electronic suspension adjustment (ESA), which allows spring pre-load for load status.
Whether I am going for a solo spin out, or touring with pillion and luggage, the adjustment is just a push of a button.

There are 3 damping settings, comfort, normal and sport, to take account of different road surfaces, this can be adjusted “on the move”.

It comes with side cases, a top case is an optional extra but for me a must, as it comfortably holds 2 helmets.
When the side cases are removed, there is no unsightly carrying frame to be seen.

Inner bags for side and top cases were purchased separately. They are convenient when touring, as the cases can be left locked on the bike.
Another bonus point, 1 key fits all locks, means no fiddling around to find the correct key.

There is a “glovebox” which is designed to hold a radio, as I didn’t have a radio fitted, this space holds an amazing amount of essential kit.
There is also a generous amount of storage under the seats.

The cruise control is regularly used, particularly in speed restricted areas and on motorways.

Heated seats and grips are often appreciated, particularly by the pillion!

Fuel tank capacity is generous, 27 litres (6 gallons), range of 250 to 300 miles on a tank full.

The on-board multi-function computer, including range on remaining fuel, is very useful.

As I don’t like having to maintain bike chains, the shaft drive was a major factor.

The bike is easy to wash and maintain.

Are there any negatives to owning this bike?
For the first 10k miles, oil needed topping up regularly, this now only needs minimal additions.

Dealer service charges are expensive, I now use an independent dealer trained mechanic.

[stelyn]

Hi DaygloDavid,  `summed' up precisely,  all the points I went for to.  Had my `2012'  3 months now  and just coming up to  6k mileage.  Previously owned several Bikes but most recently Triumphs, 1050 ST - 1050 Sport and 1200 Explorer,  this RT is by far the best for all that you mentioned,  roll on the good weather  ( not that a bit of frost or rain stops me getting out !!! )  :be happy: 

[David.]

this RT is by far the best for all that you mentioned

I know a couple of guys who have now got Twin Cam RT's & they have both said, "it's the best bike they have owned".

My 2012 Model hasn't moved since I rode it home from the Dealers at the beginning of October 2014, with 3K miles on the clock.

[stelyn]

3k on the clock !!,  that was a very good find, I thought  I had done well with 5300miles on a 2012,  I do find  I am topping up the oil a little, after about a tank of fuel, -  from what I have been told this will gradually ease off as the `mileage' builds up ?

[guest2360]

Don't want to worry you but needing a top up every 250 or so miles sounds excessive to me.  Some do use a little oil to start with, some don't.  I owned 3 and none did.  A lot depends how they were run in and too gently will result in higher consumption.  Soon as the weather gets better give it a good long spirited trip and don't fill it until the level gets to the centre of the sight glass. Always leave a little silver strip at the top of the glass as overfilling is very bad news.  Hope I'm not telling you how to suck eggs.     

[stelyn]

Hi RTman10, thanks for the heads up on that.  I'll keep my eye on it.    I suppose I am only putting a `dribble'  in.  After some Club  run outs  and after letting the Bike stand`level'  for 5mins to settle I have noticed the oil is about slightly above midway in the sight glass, so just top it up leaving that thin  line visible in the top of the glass, It only seems to take a `smidge' to show full.  My previous Bikes all had `dipsticks' and I think that was easier to monitor the Oil levels  ?,

[step2534]

Stelyn,  Got to agree with RT man.  It wants some stick (you wont break it)

            To be honest I wouldn't put any oil in if its over the middle of the glass after 5 minutes when engine is hot. Leave it and see if it alters much from there.  Mine have used maybe a small cupful over 5 to6000 miles.  I always check after a run but leave it as long as its around the halfway mark

[stelyn]

I'm going you  take the advice from both of you and give it a real good  run at `warp speed'.
( obviously conforming to the national `speed limits'  :alas: )
Let you know how it settles.  :be happy:

[Fleadip]

Here is mine.

[stelyn]

Here is mine.

And here's mine ;

              Snap !!  Good taste and choice in this `faster colour'    :whistle:

                 

[guest2360]

Two very clean pristine looking bikes.  I would urge you both though not to move them too far without their panniers.  One small slip and all your  pocket money will be gone for a very long time.

[Firenailer]

I think the Cam Head is the finest looking RT ( but I may be biased ).

[stelyn]

Another `pristine' looking RT      8)

[stelyn]

Two very clean pristine looking bikes.  I would urge you both though not to move them too far without their panniers.  One small slip and all your  pocket money will be gone for a very long time.

I have only ever put the panniers on if I was touring,  the same with my two previous  Triumph `Tourers'.    I suppose my logic has been that if I was unlucky to have the Bike drop it would cause more cosmetic damage to the panniers than the Bike and I would just have to claim on my Insurance,  plus without them its easier for the pillion to get on and off.      What's the cost of replacing a side  pannier then,  perhaps I should consider a rear frame  bar same as the Police use ?.  -    Now wondering if I should leave them on the RT  ( pity because they are nice & clean in doors at present )    :-X    Do you other riders leave them on all the time or not at all - and why ?    :kacsint2: