I had been very close to buying a new 1200 GT a few months ago, but as nice as it was, I ultimately was put off by a couple of issues, and didn't feel it was worth losing the ST over.
Last week I rode an R1200RT, and came away very impressed.
The dealer went over the functions of the RT, and started the bike up. I immediately knew I was on a twin, as the bike vibrated noticeably at idle. I was admittedly a little put off by this, and that's coming from a guy that really likes a nice twin.
As I crept away, the vibes disappeared , and the bike was impressively smooth. Not ST smooth, but very nice. You can feel the boxer pulse under heavy throttle load, but I actually like that tactile feel that I get from a twin. Much different than a harmonic buzz from an I4, which I find annoying.
The RT really shines in the areas of being nimble and transitioning in tight turns. Low speed manuevering is noticeably easier, and the RT is easier to ride faster in the corners than the ST. I have to say it was a blast in the corners. Great ground clearance, very flickable, and the boxer just pours on the torque on exit. Fun stuff!
Ergonomically, I'd have to give the advantage to the RT despite the stock seat. Noticeably more upright, and more legroom, both of which felt nice even on my relatively short ride. Wind protection was better also, but I have no complaint with the ST's.
I hit the highway and ran it up to about 85-90 for a sustained period. Very smooth, and very stable in spite of a bad cross-wind that day. On the highway I used the cruise and dialed up the heated seat and grips. All of which worked very nicely, and made me wonder why Honda has not even brought these to the ST as optional equipment.
Overall, I really liked the RT. It offers a real nice balance of character, pracicality, comfort and perfromance. I really enjoyed how it can munch up the miles in total comfort, yet still be light enough to be serious fun in the corners. A good "have your cake and eat it too" machine.
Good incentives on an 06 if you can find one. I think I am smitten on the RT.
Last week I rode an R1200RT, and came away very impressed.
The dealer went over the functions of the RT, and started the bike up. I immediately knew I was on a twin, as the bike vibrated noticeably at idle. I was admittedly a little put off by this, and that's coming from a guy that really likes a nice twin.
As I crept away, the vibes disappeared , and the bike was impressively smooth. Not ST smooth, but very nice. You can feel the boxer pulse under heavy throttle load, but I actually like that tactile feel that I get from a twin. Much different than a harmonic buzz from an I4, which I find annoying.
The RT really shines in the areas of being nimble and transitioning in tight turns. Low speed manuevering is noticeably easier, and the RT is easier to ride faster in the corners than the ST. I have to say it was a blast in the corners. Great ground clearance, very flickable, and the boxer just pours on the torque on exit. Fun stuff!
Ergonomically, I'd have to give the advantage to the RT despite the stock seat. Noticeably more upright, and more legroom, both of which felt nice even on my relatively short ride. Wind protection was better also, but I have no complaint with the ST's.
I hit the highway and ran it up to about 85-90 for a sustained period. Very smooth, and very stable in spite of a bad cross-wind that day. On the highway I used the cruise and dialed up the heated seat and grips. All of which worked very nicely, and made me wonder why Honda has not even brought these to the ST as optional equipment.
Overall, I really liked the RT. It offers a real nice balance of character, pracicality, comfort and perfromance. I really enjoyed how it can munch up the miles in total comfort, yet still be light enough to be serious fun in the corners. A good "have your cake and eat it too" machine.
Good incentives on an 06 if you can find one. I think I am smitten on the RT.
