It's worth noting that horsepower is 100% addictive.
To that end, having a 197 horsepower "toy" bike spoiled me absolutely rotten, and a recent test ride on a K1300GT quelled all my horsepower withdrawl symptoms, and the checkbook came out.
I've raised the bars, and lowered the footpegs already, which really made a tremendous improvement in the ergonomics for me. They ergos were very good in stock configuration, but now they are almost "RT" comfy. I also added a tall Aeroflow screen, and that dramatcally improved the wind protection.
Comparing the K13GT to the DOHC RT, I can honestly say that in stock form, the RT offers a bit more wind protection, slightly more upright riding position, and what I believe to be a bit better low speed cornering ability.
However, with the modifications to the ergos and wind management, I feel the GT is about par with the RT relative to comfort. Moreover, with regard to handling, the GT will fire me out of a corner much harder due to the extra horsepower, and is absolutely on rails the entire time.
The engine pulls extremely hard at any point, and really makes some interesting/visceral sounds as the throttle is held open. I find it to be exceptionally smooth, and with grip puppies, and manic salamander weights, even slightly more so.
At any rate, this may be my only bike. It's enough of a hot rod to suggest to me I don't need the toy, and it will comfortably provide long distance touring while still providing exhilerating handling, and an acceptable weight for everyday use.
To that end, having a 197 horsepower "toy" bike spoiled me absolutely rotten, and a recent test ride on a K1300GT quelled all my horsepower withdrawl symptoms, and the checkbook came out.
I've raised the bars, and lowered the footpegs already, which really made a tremendous improvement in the ergonomics for me. They ergos were very good in stock configuration, but now they are almost "RT" comfy. I also added a tall Aeroflow screen, and that dramatcally improved the wind protection.
Comparing the K13GT to the DOHC RT, I can honestly say that in stock form, the RT offers a bit more wind protection, slightly more upright riding position, and what I believe to be a bit better low speed cornering ability.
However, with the modifications to the ergos and wind management, I feel the GT is about par with the RT relative to comfort. Moreover, with regard to handling, the GT will fire me out of a corner much harder due to the extra horsepower, and is absolutely on rails the entire time.
The engine pulls extremely hard at any point, and really makes some interesting/visceral sounds as the throttle is held open. I find it to be exceptionally smooth, and with grip puppies, and manic salamander weights, even slightly more so.
At any rate, this may be my only bike. It's enough of a hot rod to suggest to me I don't need the toy, and it will comfortably provide long distance touring while still providing exhilerating handling, and an acceptable weight for everyday use.
