I went to the dealer expecting to write the check all along
The test ride was merely to confirm all the good things I had heard about the R1200R and be sure that the specific unit that interested me was in fine fettle.Way over the top on both counts!
It's a left-over 2011 RED with BMW Sport Shield, ABS/TSC, BMW Panniers, TPM, Computer, Heated Grips.
This is my third Beemer and they have all been red. The R12R's size was what appealed to me most. Smaller than most liter-class bikes, yet still more than tour-capable.
Farkling will be a slow, deliberate process. I have been through the process with several bikes now, and I kinda know what I want the end result to be -- and I'm willing to take my time to get it right. Right off the bat, though, I'll need a GPS mount, aux fuse block, and a battery charge connection direct to the battery terminals.
As to the bike and test-ride, I was more than pleased with the experience. I found myself barely guiding the bike; seemed almost like thought control was bending it around corners. Smooth and rheostat-like torque delivery. And I didn't detect any hesitation or surging at any throttle setting, nor engine/road speed.
Haven't yet had the chance to put too many miles on it since I rode it home on Wednesday (in winds with gusts to 50 mph, no less), but I hope to remedy that pretty quickly. Spring seems to be popping early here in the Chicago area.
I appreciate this forum and all of the work it must take to keep it in trim. I hope to contribute in all ways in the coming weeks and months.
Good to be here!
Best,
Chuck
Lesson learned . . .