Newbie, about to buy a R1150R

[Scandic]

Hi all,
I am new to this forum. I have for the last 3 years ridden a F650GS but am now considering changing over to a R1150R. I have one particular bike in mind, a 2005 non ABS -which I am not sure if is a good thing or bad - my 650 did not have ABS, its got 10K on the clock and seems in a very good shape. What surprised my during a short test ride is the cramped sitting position. I am just under 180cm, 6´O, and can´t but wonder if there is lowering kit for the footpegs. Anyway, I know you are all dedicated fans of the 1150 but do you reccommend it. And has anyone any experience in taking the bike off pavement; not that I see myself using the bike as a GS but, where I live there are patches of gravel inbetween the pavement here and there.
Thank you,
Scandic

[riceburner]

Hi all,
I am new to this forum. I have for the last 3 years ridden a F650GS but am now considering changing over to a R1150R. I have one particular bike in mind, a 2005 non ABS -which I am not sure if is a good thing or bad - my 650 did not have ABS, its got 10K on the clock and seems in a very good shape. What surprised my during a short test ride is the cramped sitting position. I am just under 180cm, 6´O, and can´t but wonder if there is lowering kit for the footpegs. Anyway, I know you are all dedicated fans of the 1150 but do you reccommend it. And has anyone any experience in taking the bike off pavement; not that I see myself using the bike as a GS but, where I live there are patches of gravel inbetween the pavement here and there.
Thank you,
Scandic

On "dry" off-road the bike is more than capable.
They're manageable on the damp stuff too - but I'd avoid proper mud.


The limiting factors will be tyres and your riding skill.

[chibbert]

Welcome!

Great bike you are looking into. Do not worry about not having ABS. If the bike has it - good. If not - just as well. Just keep in mind that a bike without should be priced lower than the same model year and mileage bike with abs.

1) I would ask the seller (if they know) if the bike you test-rode has the standard seat. They also come in a low seat (for shorter folks) and tall seat obviously for taller people. I am 6'1" 34" in-seam and the standard stock seat was causing my legs to feel cramped. A tall seat improved that problem considerably but alas I moved to an aftermarket (Sargent) seat which was taller and much more comfortable - definitely something to look into.

http://www.sargentcycle.com/bmwwsrr.htm

2) There are lowering kits for foot pegs. I did not try them as the seat change resolved my issues but many have lowered the pegs to their delight. Lowering can make the twisties a little more unsettling when your boot/shoe drags so keep that in mind as well.

Hope this helps.

Keep us posted on your progress.

Chris

[Scandic]

Thanks very much for informative replies. I am seriously considering buying the bike. Partly because I think it looks great and partly because I really liked riding it; I think it must have the lowered seat but I will find out for sure. Anyway, that will have to change before any serious touring is considered. Will keep you posted.

[chibbert]

it looks great

and

I really liked riding it

Can't argue with either of these.