The Lovely BMW R1200RT!! - I Think I'm In Love..! | TestRides

[@kyleturner6829]

I own that model in that color. Fantastic machine! Best bike I've ever owned in 38 years of riding!

[@divedeep04]

what's your second best..

[@kyleturner6829]

@@divedeep04 I had a 2012 Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 sports tourer that was awesome. I shouldn't have sold it. -Hugely under rated bike!

[@scottishflyer9649]

I like the respect you show for a bike that does not belong to you.

[@Tonycrossfit]

Sold my 2014 Street Glide Special and bought a 2016 R 1200 RT Premium in the Ebony Metallic Color with 11,000 miles. Always wanted a BMW and finally got it 🙏. I’m planning on riding from Florida to New Jersey and enjoy the ride and the view.

[@davidgreve1081]

Even this one is a few years old, its still like nice to see how much you like the BMW brand. The R1200RT is a lot of bike too! It'll cross state lines as if they werent even there. That's whats so nice about them! A 3,000 mile trip on one is the same as a 30 mile trip. Always enjoyable!!

[@jivadaya6439]

A few MORE years and STILL making us drool

[@gregjerome1911]

Had one of these for a bit over a year now--love it, love it, love it. Put 10K miles on it last year, you can ride it forever, so comfortable, handles beautifully, and is nearly as quick as the 1600!

[@tango165]

That's my exact model/color/option package!! She's an amazing machine, will EAT the miles all day long in pure comfort!!!

[@scooterman4363]

I think I have a new love, that BMW's awesome , thanks for taking us along for the ride.

[@sivakumareddy]

I test ride this bike on january and i fall in love with it... i own it 5 months since the test ride.... amaizing bike ❤

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

Does it have reverse?

[@leuvenlife]

I enjoy your enthousiasm. I smiled throughout your video, because I ride an RT for work and it's a feeling like no other.

[@semperfidelis3183]

I have this exact bike but mine is a 2014. I absolutely love it. I have been riding sport bikes for the last 25 years and I finally decided to get my first Sport / Touring bike. It was really hard to make the switch but as soon as I took it for the first ride I sounded just like you are doing the video. I added the third box and my wife loves riding with me. The cool part is that I can take off any of the bags or third box and I can rip the curves just like my sport bike did. I could not ride more than 150 hard miles in a day on my sport bikes but with this you can ride all day long. It is my first boxer engine and I really enjoy the sound and all the compliments when I am out riding it. If your like me and you have been thinking about switching over to this bike just do it and you will not regret it at all. Stay Safe out there guys and Semper Fi.

[@daisy8luke]

Yo, devildog, I been eyeballing this same bike at a local dealer that's only got 21K miles on it. I've been riding my Harley Dyna Super Glide so long I don't remember any of the bikes before it! But it's time to leave the cruiser scene and get something more comfortable for those long hauls. I'm glad to hear other people chiming in on the quality of the ride. Semper Fi !

[@robertp457]

" this exact bike but mine is a 2014", it's the same model, but the 2016 is new from the ground up. Different chassis, engine, exhaust, suspension, pretty much everything is new.

[@daisy8luke]

I'm not sure what your point is. It's still the BMW R1200RT, the same bike.

[@markhenry192]

She a beaut. Love the way you give each bike a little stroke before you park her up!

[@gabbyhayes1568]

This bike is on my bucket list. Probably the last bike I'll get at 70, lol.

[@rolyf100]

Got it at 72! Go for it and don’t look back.

[@tommerson5121]

I’m 71 - just got a 2015 yesterday and hope it lives up to the high praise demonstrated here.

[@brad_Ca]

I get a kick out of your reactions to motorcycles that you love, you almost sound like a guy at his favorite restaurant who just had the best looking steak dinner ever delivered to his table. So funny :-)

[@george32323]

Brad C yeah Shawn's videos are always great. They just make you happy that he's enjoying every ride, and giving you the review!

[@brad_Ca]

george32323 I totally agree. It's fun to watch him plus I enjoy learning more about motorcycles, he has so much more knowledge than I do.

[@jamesconway3620]

Brad C ?

[@brad_Ca]

James ConwAy yes

[@tsav6952]

Ideal bike to criss cross the US on. Downside with the boxer twin is valve inspection required every 6k miles by BMW. These bikes handle so well for there size.

[@joseirizarry1702]

T Sav valve inspection on the newer liquid cooled boxers is every 12,000 miles

[@tsav6952]

Jose Irizarry Thanks for sharing good to know.

[@chriscatron2978]

I have a 2015 which is oil and water cooled and just love the bike. Same color as in the video, I have ridden Ducati, Suzuki and Honda and will tell you that the R1200 RT has a great blend of sport and Tour. You will love the bike

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The RT is lovely isn't it...out of interest have you ridden the K1600GT??

[@jimmonterosso9176]

It looks and sounds great thanks for taking us along for the ride.

[@Ho_ten]

I just cannot wait, DANY IT! to get my new R1200RT VERY SOON!

[@theloveman9]

So glad you finally test rode a R1200RT, and pleased that you found it so appealing. I hope you have an opportunity to actually take one of these for an extended ride and give your impressions from that. To me, this is the most impressive touring motorcycle on the market. As a touring motorcycle it is impressively quick with impressive 6th gear roll on performance and handling that simply defies its appearance and size. It is the ideal cold weather riding motorcycle, and the fairing provides exemplary protection during a rain storm. Thanks for posting, and as always ride safe!

[@jimengle3242]

I never get tired of the test rides, Shawn !

[@csxhogger1]

You should be a salesman there! Just your walk around and talking makes me want to go buy one. LOL

[@npr1300A8]

Having owned the BMW K1600 GTLE in between two FJRs, this bike is the ONLY bike that would tempt me away from the FJR. This video will definitely sell lots of RTs. It's already the best selling sports/touring bike in the UK. Thanks Shawn. Ride safe.

[@timecrawler8810]

Biker Paul I left my 13 FJR for the 16 RT love it. I'm no longer straddling a bull

[@victoriabermudezwingo2257]

I have a 2016 R1200RT and I love it!

[@josephthurston331]

In all your videos I love your passion for bikes. You love them all. As for your advice about knowing your self and wether you should be on a super fast bike, like you, I shouldn't be. Wether on my Harley or my ST I tend to push the limits and then some lol. No burn out on BMW videos, keep up the passion it's infective.

[@MWS1960]

My exact bike right down to the color ❤

[@Porsche996driver]

My R1150R still rides like a new bike with 50k+. I need to test ride an RT against an RS. I prefer minimal fairings but that RT is the shiznit.

[@Walts-Travel]

I envy you.. You have the best job!

[@daisy8luke]

No shit ! I'd be walking around with a boner all day.

[@Life_Is_Adventuree]

we same buddy..i also in love with that for years..

[@BatterseaBill]

Just bought one, same colour, 2014, pick it up Saturday.

[@-Loki--]

Beautiful bike, someone is going to made even more complete with that in their life.

[@ehsan83]

That bike is very very elegant. I like to call it a diplomatic bike 😋

[@anotherdaywithj5378]

just bought one!

[@MegaBurndown]

i owned a k 1200 back in the 90s it was so hot on the left side !!! i always wanted a boxer now looking at the bmw g650gs

[@travelinben1966]

I test ride one today.I’m in love.

[@davyboycolon530]

They really are great motorcycles

[@KEVN38]

The windshield is amazingly distortion free!

[@frank09busa]

I own k1600 and she is awesome to ride. fantastic torque at low end with very sporty 160 hp straight 6 cyl is unbelievably balanced. ABS is second to none.

[@TimothyT230]

I have a R1200RS right now. The RT will be my next bike 😊

[@davidday4443]

she is unbelievably gorgeous beemer boys nailed it theres somethin about some bikes that ...welll just have it something about the perfection of artistic symmetry and that other undefinable..well soul...it comes out in sculpture paintings the written word ...who knows when the muse chooses to smile on our efforts anyways thanks for the vid

[@tjzulu1]

I have the 2015 version....it's awesome in every aspect!!!

[@joejack6576]

what a badass shop all brands???????????????????? I wish America had a shop like this--

[@marvinmcmiller6238]

Great video! Have you test rode the burgman 650? Also the honda dn-01. I would like a very detailed long video on these two bikes, please!

[@johniac7078]

I have the same bike. It really is an amazing machine.

[@chriscummings5727]

Love all the LOVE you are showing the beemers! But if you had to pick between the GS and the RT which one would it be?

[@sivakumareddy]

RT is best for touring long distance on highways... GS is more to adventures off road 😇

[@BorisW150]

Fun review. Thanks.

[@munciebill8674]

What is the science behind the odd shaped windshield? Does it reduce buffeting or is it just for show?

[@josephthurston331]

Oh yeah I rode one once and that windshield works great.

[@tim7527]

Thanks for posting !

[@henryedwards4540]

U forgot to mention Shawn that you can unclip the saddle bags and carry them around like a suitcase.

[@Fractal379]

Still a great vid!

[@Truthseeker71]

I couldn't tell if you liked it or not. ;) I do miss the longer test rides. Seems lately you barely go around the block or get it in more than 3rd gear. Is this a BMW requirement? I've only sat on a couple of BMW's at my local shop and was very impressed with the quality and attention to detail. From the super smooth clutch to the screws used. Some day maybe I'll get chance to ride one. Thanks for every ride video you put out Shawn! Always a pleasure to watch them. Take care.

[@OtisENGINEuity]

I hear Staind's Outside from the Family Values Tour... yeah I'm a music nut. The more I look at that Scrambler the more I wish I had the money to buy one. I need to go sit on one and find out if there's a hope in hell of me fitting on one. I'm thinking a sacrificial thick aluminum chunk needs to be put on the ends of the heads though to protect them if you lean over a bit too far.. Looks like the heads will grind before the pegs.

[@SalemCBR1]

Dang. that thing looks sharp

[@frankwatson6257]

Lots of enthusiasm! Like that :) Btw I ordered one last week :D

[@by_3ed]

nice bike

[@jigrodrigues]

My dream bike

[@Dave23547]

If you were going-on a three state cruise, would you take your Street Glide or the 1200RT?

[@df9122]

It's a lot more fun on the highway!

[@douglascassetty6553]

I WANT THEM ALL. Think back to 16 years old H.S. Halls full of all those Pretty Girls. But you can't have them all. But life allows for us to have more then one Motorcycle. You one lucky guy with a cool job. You have earned it. Lucky job but blessed to have Kelly.

[@Bluecollarguy87]

What's up with the antenna of being right there

[@Harleyforever20]

I ride a 2012 Street Glide. I am looking HARD at one of those. If you had a choice between the two which one would you take home?

[@george32323]

Shawn, ever thought of contacting motorcyclist magazine to collaborate?

[@slcea7]

Nice bike. So, for you, K16 or this bike? Also, do you know if they plan to retrofit the autoshifting to prior year K16s like they did for the R series bikes? Thanks for the vid!

[@golferpatbug]

Hey Shawn, love your new camera, I love my 2005 RT, I see they got rid of the kick stand safety feature, if I put mine down it kills the engine.

[@zoranv12]

It only does that if it's in a gear, just like any other bike :)

[@jimmyccee1083]

Shawn, how do u compare this with a Street Glide?

[@wheelspin1000]

Nice video and great commentary and perspective as always...So...if presented with the choice to have this bike OR your SGS, which would you choose? How does this bike compare to your SGS with regard to comfort, ergonomics, and wind protection? I have a 2017 SGS with the same Legend shocks that you have and I frequently wonder how a BMW RT would compare. I'm going to test ride an RT, and see for myself. Another point with the SGS is it's 830 lb wet weight vs the RTs wet weight of 610 lbs. I'm thinking the 220 lb lighter bike would be a blessing...looking forward to your comments. Thanks! and ride safe!

[@ShawnSmoak]

I wouldn’t take an RT over my SGS, but not that there’s anything wrong with the RT. In fact, quite the opposite. The RT’s are almost too perfect and completely void of character... If I had one little complaint, it would be that feels small and tight in its ergonomics. It’s a fantastic bike with amazing suspension and wind protection, plus that amazing K5X Water-Boxer motor! I would love to have one, but not enough to get rid of my SGS to do so. The lower weight is only noticeable when pushing the bike around the shop or when pushing it hard. But it’s not anything that’s going to jump out at you. When you ride one you’re going to love it! However, if it’s not sitting in you shop next to your SGS, you’ll miss the Harley immensely! Apples and Oranges these two bikes are from each other... Thanks for watching!!

[@wheelspin1000]

Thanks for your comparison - interesting. After watching a bunch of your RT videos, I was thinking you were on the verge of maybe swapping the SGS with an RT. But why? you can ride them at work and borrow for a weekend - lol also interesting to note the ergos of the RT being possibly compact. I've seen others mention this too, but not as a major issue, just rider observation. Good stuff! Thanks!

[@sheddski2942]

I,m new here first post been watching for awhile that model BMW boxer is my favorite any driveshaft issues with the new bikes I know some guys who had many issues with earlier gt models from early 90s to 2000 on I ride a 06 roadking like barn find mine was used car dealer find

[@n9oqu]

I can't wait for the R 800 GS TO COME OUT IN 2025. Its supposed to have active cruise, shaft drive and heated grips and seat! Hopefully a good windscreen too.

[@funkyoldmedina4232]

Great videos every time I watch them. My question is would you prefer this bike over a Harley Davidson Street Glide special ?

[@chriscatron2978]

Shawn I was looking at a 2018 GSA and not sure if I should go with the LC model. I have a 30” inseam. Your Thoughts?

[@johnmeredith7075]

I want them all to

[@bwfrieds]

How tall is the rider?

[@Dalekennth1969]

Very nice mmm

[@gordonscott2838]

in what ways does the RT feel different to the GSA?

[@roadglide]

If you had one bike, either a GS/GSA or an RT? Which one?

[@mustang1191]

Tricky question but have you gotten a feel for maintenance/repair costs on the BMW's relative to the other manufacturers? I've heard answers all over the map but I'd think ur opinion is pretty informed. Thanks for sharing.

[@jdr544]

As I owned 11 BMW's as well as 2 Harleys, I can tell you BMW maintanance is only half of Harley Davidson! At least here in Germany.

[@UncleWally3]

I watching this September, 2022 - going back in time trying to figure out what I want now! This vintage is available to me with about 20 000 miles on it, but there’s also a brand new 2022 base model - both approximately the same price. Which bike would anyone, who has an informed opinion, recommend buying?

[@yaroze]

Pretty Ironic, I type in R1200RT, and see the very bike I was looking at last Monday, very pretty color in person. I can't wait to see how the new "BMW of Vancouver" store front comes along....

[@jean-paulyvetot8309]

idem, I love my motorcycle, it's the same.

[@gordonmccoy4537]

Are you a graduate or a member of the Toast Masters Club? Reason I ask is that you have a great voice and mannerisms about you... One of my favorite friends is - he was a US Army Captain UH-1 Helo pilot in Vietnam - And is... You remind me a lot of him...

[@paulsullivan931]

SHawn,you got the best job in the world,dang,why ain't you and me rich?

[@boatster779]

Fully loaded bike is missing the central locking system for all your side cases. Almost fully loaded. I love my 2016 RT

[@Whabligone]

. . . the stuff dreams are made of. . . if I got the money one day, definitely

[@happytrails1963]

Fancy bike! Been eyeing a nice used one at my local HD dealer. As nice as these are I think I like the FJRs just a little better.

[@johnmadsen37]

These rts are like a cockpit with enough power of juggling a chainsaw. I rode sport bikes and they are cool, but this bike is just something else. And compared to a new car, they are dirt cheap. The difference between 10 or 20 k for something you’ll love is nothing.

[@davidjermy2524]

Are you sure it’s not a Transformer Shawn?..

[@TheVigilantStewards]

I prefer the styling of the K1600GTLE. It's not that the 1200RT looks bad to me, it just looks kind of all shoulders and funk. The GTLE looks like a futuristic motorcycle and spaceship but in a nice way. The 1200RS is kind of funky too, the 1200's seem to be a little queer. They're not directly appeasing to the eye but after you look at them for a minute you think oh they do look really nice. Something about their proportions just don't quite sit into the aesthetic immediately I guess. Probably the best looking 1200RT I've seen. I didn't think this one had Akrapovic on it... so it didn't come with every option.

[@thomasroy1749]

I've had several boxers -- RS, RT, GS, R nineT... My 2006 RT has been my favourite. The instrument panel, cockpit, modular mirrors, and trademark BMW front intake set the bar for sport-touring bikes. While I love the ride of the "new" RTs, I still cannot warm to the deviation from trademark BMW styling. Specifically, I'm not a fan of the redesigned front fairing and asymmetric dashboard... Sadly, the look of the bike could be confused with Kawasaki or any random other badge. No offence to other manufacturers, just that BMW seems to have overlooked the trademark features which distinguished the brand. If looking like a BMW is not important to you, the ride and function of the updated RT are still unparalleled. As much as I want to go back to an RT as THE bike in my garage, I'll stick with my GS as it gives me the versatility and functionality while not being mistaken for any number of futuristic imports.

[@dleasman]

I see the kickstand safety kill switch is disabled... Engine should have shut off when you lowered the kick stand. Not sure it's legal to sell it with that disabled.

[@ChefPelle]

It's strange that so few manufacturers try to compete in the segment "best over all motorcycle"

[@Texarmageddon]

ChefPelle probably because they’re too busy trying to compete in best overall middleweight touring bikes like this one

[@coyote102076]

BMW test ride burnout? NEVER! :-D

[@RogueMogul]

So if you were shopping in this segment, would you do the R1200RT or the K1600?

[@goinxnginx]

For what it is worth, I was shopping in this segment last year and bought the '16 RT. I could not be more pleased. Money was not a concern in this instance. It was all about what was/is right for me. Both are exemplary motorcycles. I have been riding for 40 years, all kinds of bikes, and as a "one up" most of the time rider, I love the light weight, power, speed, and handling at all speeds that is designed/engineered into this fine machine.

[@Stevengoldaua]

time to trade in that harley of yours

[@frank09busa]

Steve Gold isn't that the truth lol. 889 is not a good scooter at all

[@scotpleski5534]

If the RT rides anything like my GS, I understand and it get better with time. My 2014 R1200GS is fantastic with 48,000+ miles. I do like the RT's dash better.

[@SteshenStation]

Scot Pleski, I'm at 51000 miles on my RT 14' and love it every day I ride it, we know the feeling! Since 2014, I didn't buy a single motorcycle magazine also ^^'.

[@zahiniabd9840]

Feel as if I am riding with ya.

[@larrypahl5756]

people still surprised by the best

[@HarleyBreakoutGuy]

My wife is a motor officer this is her take home bike :)

[@123JumpingJacks]

most comfortable bike you have ever ridden?

[@Crazygaucho62]

Coincidentally I have a royal star , that I’m thinking to trade for an R 1200….

[@spikey2740]

All that in first gear. Imagine taking it on the highway.

[@123JumpingJacks]

Local dealer has a 2011 BMW 1200 gs. 23,000 miles, triple black. Wants 11,000$ for it. Appears to be in good shape. I will be demo riding it soon. Assuming it is in good condition what do I need to know about the bike to make sure I am getting a great deal. I thought of your channel as soon as I thought of buying it. Help me obi-wan-kenobi. Your my only hope.=]

[@ShawnSmoak]

Having all the service records listed in the owner's manual (or some other source) would be awesome, that way you know it's been getting all it's scheduled services for the past 7 years / 23K miles... Other than that, change the diff oil with every engine oil change, not every other oil change. The bikes are amazingly tough and durable! You'll have a ball with it... Thanks for watching!

[@123JumpingJacks]

Shawn Smoak is it possible to get a 2011 lowered? Shocks fr a bike that old still available on the market?

[@ridewithme7636]

love your videos but this was by no means a test ride!!!!!