Hi guys, haven't been here for a while since I sold the Pan 1300.
In that time I first moved to a BMW K1200GT SE to replace the Pan after nearly 30K miles in 2 years. Enjoyed it. Faster, lighter, good handling, comfortable, lots of factory farkles and did I mention faster. Provided a lot of fun on our European trips (mainly Austria and Spain).
Trouble was it was too fast too easy so decided lifestyle change and bought R1200GS Adventure, my first boxer. This was so much fun around the back roads and country lanes where we live. I even managed to handle this very tall bike with 30+litres of fuel reasonably well. Was great around the alpine passes but as a long distance 2 person machine it failed. Pillion comfort and protection from elements was poor so it had to go. (I would consider one as a solo touring bike).
So back to a "proper" touring machine and we changed to an R1200RT SE some 6 months ago. It hasn't done a real tour yet but it seems to fit the bill well with both passenger and pillion comforts. It handles well and is remarkably fuel efficient if kept around 90mph cruising. We'll see if this is a keeper.
Going back to when the Adventure was to be swopped there were a few options. Back to a Pan 1300, FJR 1300, GTR 1400, K1300GT or the R1200RT.
Simply looking at all these bikes (and to be honest most would do at least a reasonable job) from a ?? / $$ point of view the RT was a no brainer.
In UK money:
Pan1300 ?12,600
FJR1300 ?12,995
GTR1400 ?12,700
K1300GT ?12,900
R1200RT-SE ?10,600
So the RT was not only around ?2K less expensive but had ESA, heated grips and seats, computer, cruise control, etc., etc. making it a bargain.
The very latest model is ?11,800 and with cruise, ESA, heated bits, etc will push the price to around ?13,300 but still a great buy when you consider the cost of adding these to any of the other bikes.
Only other thing I must mention is that at my age (3 score years plus) the lighter weight of the RT is of real benefit.
Enjoy whatever you buy and ride safe.