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After trouble with my Pan European involving nasty, costly maintenance, not to mention several recalls, it was time to shop, and shop I did.
Enter the BMW K1200 GT. Fresh for '06, this beauty instantly impresses with superior engineering. Climbing aboard reveals great ergonomics. Tapping the starter and tweaking in settings on the computer, suspension, and seat position and we're off. Instantly, the slow speed maneuvering stability and precision are wonderful. Ride is never unsettled, even in tight turns. Gears and engine power combo are buttery smooth. Very little driveline lash too. Wonderful for shaft drive. Speed comes quickly and effortlessly. Cruising at any speed is more than smooth and controlled, it's luxurious. Setting the suspension to comfort means floating over freeway joints with little disturbance. Set it to sport and you're ready to play on the twisties and this bike is serious about playing.
The K bike can do it all with no excuses or apologies. If there was any harshness in previous versions it's all gone with the new design. It's as though they took a 5 series car, upped the power to weight ratio and put it all on two wheels in a precise, buttoned down package. And, in BMW tradition, the engine hums a lovely purr but never sounds rough, just creamy smooth. You may plunk down a few extra green stamps but you truly get what you pay for. Life's too short to ride junk. Oh, and the cruise control is a great addition as it lightens the work load.
If you want to roll on power, you can do it from just about any gear with no strain or lack. Acceleration is seemingly linear. Starting off with cold engine is every bit as smooth. Not the jerkiness of rice burners. Build quality is flawless. Only nit, and it's a small one, is the heavier than it is feel. Not really a problem but a lower CG would be nice. Still the bike is not tippy and any fear of dropping it is belayed quickly when you get familiar with its manners. It takes just a minute to warm up to the K12. You feel at home immediately, something the rider finds pleasantly surprising and it only gets better.
At first ride, I didn't want to give it back. Oh, and they actually let you test ride once you get checked out. The Asian bike dealers make you buy before you ride. If you don't like it, too bad. BMW dealers are user friendly too. Never play games, always on the level. Thanks. I'm here to stay.
Reviews are provided on an "as is" basis with no warranty and should be considered entertainment only. Reviews should not be used for any purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to, making decisions about any referenced vehicles, products, modifications or other information.
