BMW R1200R R1150R/T F800 K1200R R1100R/T R1250R RnineT Message Board

So i had my R in for inspection today and in the used showroom is a 1996 R1100RS. I have always been partial to the RS .

This particular one has ABS, a Corbin saddle with a passenger backrest, hand guards (I assume no heated grips?), lower pipe with two full sized side cases ( I don't know, did they all come like this?), throttle lock.

Cons are that it has 62K miles and it is a rather ugly color.

The dealer said he would actually give me about $1000 on a trade for my R, which would almost pay off the loan and get me out of debt.

While I was waiting for my R, he let me take the RS out for a spin. I really like the sportier seating, and the RS seems to have a little more power.

The probelm is I really like my R too. I am a little leary about trading backwards and getting an older bike with more mileage, but it has been regualrly serviced at this dealership. Also I hear the horror stories of the ABS systems. I didn't notice any braking issues.

Anyone have experience with both of these bikes and can shed some light on the subject for me or tell me why not to make the switch?

ken k

I have the 1996 R1100 R.
Speaking of the ABS .... I like it. Has saved my A.s a couple of times in the wet and on unpaved roads.
BUT make sure you have a fully charged Battery.
It seems the ABS is Voltage-sensitive.
At least mine is.

Also there were transmission and clutch problems in 1996. But fixed under
warranty. so if this bike was maintained those issues were taken care off.
Mine was the last year WITHOUT catalytic converter. Maybe a blessing, if you are not politically correct.

Oh and I have about 100 000 km on it = 62 000 miles.
Just broken in.It was never babied,shows it's age,but runs fine

Personally I would rather not trade to an older bike.But all circumstances are different.