Issue 127 : February - March 2003
Spaghetti Monster
Teutonic Tourer
Jet-powered Tourer
Lightning Muscle
Mountain Men
MAG Campaign Issues
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Spaghetti Monster
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Teutonic Tourer
BMW - Those three letters are synonymous with quality and prestige, on either four wheels or two, the R1150RT is no exception. There seems to be a popular myth that Beemer's are old men's bikes. I guess to a point you would be right in making that distinction, given that the majority of BM owners are of a more discerning age, an age when comfort, quality, reliability and the capability of doing the job safely and efficiently is more important than simply looking good! I beg to differ however, I would argue that if more of our plastic fantastic riders who venture further afield than their local biker cafe, would also benefit from of a motorcycle capable of taking them around the World without wrist and back-ache. The R1150RT is that machine, a beautifully engineered, superb piece of German technology, first launched back in 1995 as the R1100RT, this would be BMW's top of the range tourer until 1999, when BMW launched their new flagship the K1200LT. In 2001 the RT was given a face lift, the upper fairing was re-styled with a more pointed nose giving a much sharper overall look, and more importantly improving aerodynamics. BM's boffins also came up with a new headlight, featuring integral fog lights which could be handy for night riding when the mist comes down! The engine was beefed up too, with an extra 45cc giving another 5bhp taking maximum horse power up to a moderate 95bhp, not bad for a flat twin. With 5kgs shaved off the overall weight and the addition of a sixth gear, the bike should be more capable than its predecessor, but the proof of the pudding is in its eating so let the feast begin.
Sitting comfortably, very comfortably, I have now left the motorway and am starting to enjoy Lincolnshire's fine sweeping roads, taking me out towards the coast, my thoughts are flashing by almost as quickly as the hedgerows. I'm thinking 'if only I had been commissioned to write some fantastic-touring feature, and was off on some exciting journey across Europe. Perhaps riding across France down through Switzerland and onto the Italian lakes for a couple of weeks, then back down onto the French Riviera, then into Spain, through the Costa's and up the coast to Bilbao to catch the ferry home, if only.' I've been riding the RT for less than an hour and already I'm planning a trip around Europe, perhaps BMW's are the stuff that dreams are made of? Back to reality, I have a day out of the office on the RT and I'm going to make the most of it. The RT somehow doesn't feel anything like as big as I'd thought it would, in fact quite the opposite, compact, is probably how I would best describe the overhaul feel. The RT is however, quite a heavy bike, weighing in at 279 kg, (614pounds) therefore the handling is testament to the clever weight distribution accomplished by BMW's ingenious engineers. You can push the bike hard into corners and nothing seems to upset the Telelever suspension. A unique suspension system developed by BMW, combining car and motorcycle technology, reported to cut front fork dive by around 90 percent. (a very useful system to have on a touring bike, complete with rider and passenger and more luggage than you can shake a stick at). The RT will actually ground out if you are brave enough. High speed corners and roundabouts are all conquered with ease and the RT holds no nasty surprises for the rider, possessing handling that is very sure-footed, very predictable and most enjoyable.  Anchors Aweigh - out with the old and in with the new. The RT was the first BMW to be fitted with their all new singing and dancing braking system. The ABS system now links the front and rear brakes while a servo also assists (only when the engine is running) in providing extra stopping power at your finger tips. They seem to work perfectly well, the RT certainly stops very rapidly. I have to say though, I much prefer an independent front and rear braking system where the rider has full control over which brake is applied and when. I'm a strong believer in embracing technology, but not for the sake of it. That's only my opinion. The Powerhouse. The RT's engine, like on all BMW twins, forms the central frame component with the front and rear suspension units bolting directly to the engine resulting in superior strength and rigidity, while assisting in keeping the weight mass as low as possible. The bike however, does suffer unfortunately from the same vibration problems as all who have gone before. This is a characteristic of the big flat twin engine, but is only really uncomfortable at revs over 6,500rpm. The bike pulls away cleanly from just over 1000rpm and sings sweetly to around 6,000rpm before you can feel any slight tingling through the handlebars. The fuel-injected engine has a fair amount of grunt, as you would expect from an 1150cc unit. Acceleration is smooth and again, like the handling ,very predictable. The RT is no slug and the more spirited riders amongst you will have no problem keeping up with your Japanese mounted mates. In fact it would be quite easy to embarrass many riders as you slide by sat in the lap of luxury. And when your mates are busy adjusting and lubing chains, you can be taking in the scenery enjoying your first beer safe in the knowledge that your shaft drive won't let you down. The Final Synopsis: The RT does everything very well, very well indeed, it will take you and a pillion, and your luggage (the RT comes complete with panniers, a top box is available at extra cost) around the World, quickly and safely and in comfort with minimum effort and with maximum enjoyment. The RT is very BMW. If you own one or have owned a BMW you will know what I am talking about. If not the experience is waiting. Mick Tonks  |
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Mick Tonks climbs aboard BMW's R1150RT and instantly wants to travel far.