BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

Enjoyed my first summer on my 2012 R1200RT.  Rode over 6000 miles around central Pennsylvania. For over 10 years I have been riding back road / off road on my 2003 F650GS.  The RT brings a different style of riding, and more highways than my GS - and I like the change to this big machine.  Looking forward to more great riding in 2022.

It’s been my first summer with an RT as well, and despite Covid restrictions and the soaring fuel costs my annual mileage is up and I’m enjoying the easy handling and lighter weight of the bike over my previous ST1300.
Now just hoping for some decent weather over the winter…

My first half summer with the RT


I say half as I picked it up in June so missed most of the year


Covered 3.5k in that time and loving every minute of it so far

Steve398 wrote: It’s been my first summer with an RT as well, and despite Covid restrictions and the soaring fuel costs my annual mileage is up and I’m enjoying the easy handling and lighter weight of the bike over my previous ST1300.
Now just hoping for some decent weather over the winter…

Old ST1300 owner here as well.  Bought my 2012 R1200RT in July and only ridden about 3000 miles so far.
I'd be lying if I said its been smooth sailing for the RT and me.  There are a number of things I do not like about this bike at all, but I'm trying to give it a fair go and convince myself there is a learning curve I need to get over.

Grumpy wrote: Old ST1300 owner here as well.  Bought my 2012 R1200RT in July and only ridden about 3000 miles so far.
I'd be lying if I said its been smooth sailing for the RT and me.  There are a number of things I do not like about this bike at all, but I'm trying to give it a fair go and convince myself there is a learning curve I need to get over.

It is a very different bike for sure, and lacks the silky smoothness and low down power/torque of the V4, but the significant loss of weight was a major factor in changing to the BMW as I have shoulder issues which would have meant me giving up biking otherwise.
The ST was also lacking many of the modern accessories having been produced nearly 20 years ago, so things like cruise control, heated seats, TPMS, and LED lights whilst not essential are a welcome addition.
I do miss the Pans engine, but certainly not the weight...

Steve398 wrote:
It is a very different bike for sure, and lacks the silky smoothness and low down power/torque of the V4, but the significant loss of weight was a major factor in changing to the BMW as I have shoulder issues which would have meant me giving up biking otherwise.
The ST was also lacking many of the modern accessories having been produced nearly 20 years ago, so things like cruise control, heated seats, TPMS, and LED lights whilst not essential are a welcome addition.
I do miss the Pans engine, but certainly not the weight...

Agreed. I was close to going with a Goldwing, but went with the RT because of the features you mentioned and the lighter weight.  I'm not yet convinced I made the right choice