Wet Head HP loss at elevation

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Kunkies
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Wet Head HP loss at elevation

Post by 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,
-Bob
simbo
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Re: Wet Head HP loss at elevation

Post by simbo »

Went to the Pyrenees last year doing roads around 6 to 7k above sea level and had absolutely no issues whatsoever.
The GS 'is' the better bike :-)
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David.
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Re: Wet Head HP loss at elevation

Post by 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.
Last edited by David. on Thu Feb 24, 2022 8:57 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Doctor T
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Re: Wet Head HP loss at elevation

Post by 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.
Trust me I am a retired Doctor and lecturer at Oxford University of Structural and Mechanical/Electrical engineering.
"Blessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light". Groucho Marx
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emlevy
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Re: Wet Head HP loss at elevation

Post by 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.


Last edited by emlevy on Thu Feb 24, 2022 3:34 pm, edited 1 time in total.
2015 R1200RT | 2012 R1200R Classic
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