BMW K1200GT. Dec 07
Aficionados of the marque will know that there are touring BMWs, and there are sport touring BMWs. This bike definitely falls into the latter category. The K1200GT is actually a touring-oriented version of the sporty K1200S.With its slimline, slab-sided, some may say "challenging" looks, the K1200 GT will appeal to a select market, but it's not the most unattractive sports tourer around - not by a long shot. But let's not be vacuous. As the 'GT' (Grand Tourer, Gran Turismo, whatever you choose to call it) name implies, this model BMW is a tourer in the luxury mould, with abundant rider comfort options. However, these comforts certainly don't come at the expense of rider feel or control. Riding position can be tailored to individual requirements as the handlebars and seat height can both be adjusted to suit virtually all shapes and sizes.
The seat is long enough to comfortably accommodate both rider and pillion, while the rider's seat itself is low enough to suit the vertically challenged!Cruising at high speed with a passenger and luggage is what this bike does best. With a claimed 152bhp from the 1157cc transverse four, and a 24-litre tank capacity, 350kms or more is an easy proposition in a single stint. The engine has a unique, almost race car-like sound, making it a joy to the ears whenever a blast up through the gears beckons. The effect is amplified, or at least enjoyed more, when the bike is unladen. Take a ride without the panniers or a passenger and you'll appreciate the K1200GT's agility.The suspension works well, with nice front anti-dive and the rear stuck at all times.Of the many options available, the Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) is sure to be a favourite.
The three settings - 'comfort', 'normal' and 'sport' are selected via a button on the left-hand bar, with the setting registering on the dash. The 'sport' setting isn't just sport in name, either. As the duo lever front & paralever rear suspension is derived from the K1200S sports, the K1200GT can certainly handle spirited riding. ESA allows easy suspension adjustment for carrying pillions and/or panniers of gear, too. If you're planning some long distance rides with a partner, the ESA option would be a recommended upgrade.Part-integral ABS is standard, which works well once you get used to the fact that the "front" brake lever activates front & rear brakes, while the foot lever activates the rear only.
The combination works well with the sportier nature of the K1200GT.Despite its slimline looks, the fairing actually offers good wind and weather resistance, aided by the electrically- operated windscreen (which can operate over a 100mm range). For taller riders, a 60mm higher windscreen isavailable separately. Heated grips are standard, with a heated seat available as an option. Xenon headlights are another optional upgrade.A peek inside the fairing shows a distinct lack of 'clutter' thanks to the Single Wire Sytem (SWS), which, as the name indicates, runs all electrical and electronic commands digitally through a single wire. CAN-bus technology allows additional electronic accessories (like ESA or optional Tyre Pressure Control) to be easily added to the system. An electronic engine immobiliser is fitted as standard.
A large 'info-Flatscreen' display (positioned between the main gauges) can be called up via a button on the right-side handlebar that shows essentials like average speed, fuel consumption, etc. as well as oil level warning, coolant temperature, ambient temperature and more. 2008 sees a new colour added to the range in Aventurine Silver, joining Deep Blue, Deep Graphite & Crystal Grey metallic.
With the big range of options and accessories, true touring credentials and sporty handling, the BMW K1200GT is certainly the "5 Star" Gran Turismo.