Well against all warnings I went and test drove a 2015 bmw 1200rt. As I told the sales man I would take quite a bike to unseat me of my 2004 st1300. My St is like an old comfortable shoe that the wife wants you to throw away, but you refuse because it is just so comfy.
The bmw is impressive in its layout, technology and has everything you would want in a sport touring bike.
1. Power, no problem it has plenty. Not as silky smooth as the ST, I found myself shifting more often than I would have on the st1300 to keep the rpms up.
2. Wind control is very good. I found very little turbulence or back pressure in any position. Shield in the low position has a nice smooth blast of air. High position I can still look over with little turbulence.(no need to change the shield.)
3. Seating position is good but I found the seat a far cry from my comfortable Russell seat. (The seat would be the first thing to change. )
4. Price is very high around 23,000.00 fully loaded. I would need a top box, add another 1800.00 with the auto-lock and light 1300.00 without. Other that that no Bmw extra is needed.
5. The built in sound system is great, the dashboard is easily seen, although I think the numbers on the speedometer are a little small.
6. I like the bags with the option to leave them unlocked or locked.
7. This one had the key fob and the pushbutton start. I am not sure I like that, just one more thing to go wrong.
8. Put the st engine in the bmw platform and you would have a dream bike. Honda are you listening?
Still not sure if I would buy the RT, Not that big a jump over the st to warrant the extra cash required until I truly wear out my bike.
on what he said. 