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Author Topic: 2018 BMW K1600Bagger Demo Ride  (Read 3901 times)
blackvalk
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Posts: 302

PARK CITY, UTAH


« on: August 23, 2017, 04:55:22 PM »

After my '14 Valkyrie was totalled by my son, I began a search for my new ride.

My options were a new or used '14/'15 Valkyrie, the new K1600B or the new Goldwing ('18 ground-up re-build).

Today I took a new K1600B for a test ride from Salt Lake City to Park City Ut. It's all up hill and twisty. I hit 125mph up hill at elevation. It's a rocket! Handled very well!

Out the door it will be $27,000.00 with an additional $2,200.00 for an extended warranty. The warranty takes me out to 8 years unlimited miles.

Being a BMW I thought it might be a good idea to take the warranty.

I loved my Valkyrie but this K1600 is un-believable.....It's just a lot of $$$$$

I'm not looking for approval, I just wanted to let you know how impressive the new Bagger is......

Bill
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Savago
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Posts: 1994

Brentwood - CA


« Reply #1 on: August 23, 2017, 05:47:43 PM »

I can imagine that the 6 inline engine must be really torquey.
:-)
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bscrive
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Posts: 2539


Out with the old...in with the wooohoooo!!!!

Ottawa, Ontario


« Reply #2 on: August 23, 2017, 06:59:43 PM »

The GT1600 was on my short list of bikes.  I liked the look and the feel.  Standing still, the bike felt very top heavy.  The deal breaker for me was the price.  I could buy two of the new Valks for the price of one BMW.  Also, the BMW service sucks and is expensive around here.  Plus, I was not sure how long it would last without major repairs.  BMW is not noted for great reliability and I planned on having the bike for a long time..
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Verismo
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Posts: 118


« Reply #3 on: August 24, 2017, 04:06:22 AM »

That sounds amazing!  I'll look forward to buying one in 2 years with 6 years left on the warranty, for 15,000, lmao.
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Robert
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Posts: 16959


S Florida


« Reply #4 on: August 24, 2017, 05:21:06 AM »

This may sound like a beat down but its only the reasons I didn't buy one. Price was definitely first one on the list. Next you cannot service the bike yourself, maybe oil changes but that's about it. All the electronics on the bike make it impossible to service and if you are out on the road and want to fix it quick no go. Parts are by order only in most places and you have to take the bike to the dealer and that entails another whole mess. The dealers really are not interested in bikes and have very few interested in working on them. So if you have a problem it may be awhile to repair. The rear ends on some bikes do have problems and they have not been so good on repair many complaints.
« Last Edit: August 24, 2017, 05:26:36 AM by Robert » Logged

“Some people see things that are and ask, Why? Some people dream of things that never were and ask, Why not? Some people have to go to work and don’t have time for all that.”
bscrive
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*****
Posts: 2539


Out with the old...in with the wooohoooo!!!!

Ottawa, Ontario


« Reply #5 on: August 24, 2017, 06:02:22 AM »

Robert I have heard about the warranty issues as well.  One guy that works with my wife put on an aftermarket pipe on his R1200RT and when he went in for warranty work he was told that the pipe voided his warranty.  Apparently, you have to sign saying that the bike will not be modified.   uglystupid2  He had a heck of a time getting the warranty stuff done because BMW would not step in.  They leave warranty issues up to the dealer.  He ended up putting his old pipe on and going to another dealer over two hours away because that was the next closest dealer.
My cousin has the same issue with his Indian in that the closest dealer is 2 hrs away in Montreal and the next closest dealer is 5 hrs away in Toronto.
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dans2014
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Posts: 438



« Reply #6 on: August 24, 2017, 09:06:15 AM »

If you can afford the Beemer, I wouldn't even go to the Honda store. Best motorcycle in the world. Hands down and YES, I would buy the warranty. Also the safest motorcycle. Keep your son off it!! and let us know how you like it. Us poor Valkyrie guys van only dream
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Dan's 2014 Valkyrie
Robert
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Posts: 16959


S Florida


« Reply #7 on: August 24, 2017, 03:03:57 PM »

If you can afford the Beemer, I wouldn't even go to the Honda store. Best motorcycle in the world. Hands down and YES, I would buy the warranty. Also the safest motorcycle. Keep your son off it!! and let us know how you like it. Us poor Valkyrie guys van only dream

Well actually I can afford the Beemer and still went right to the Honda store the best motorcycle in the world  cooldude Wink

Whats more I didn't even have to buy a warranty since it comes with 3 years unlimited mileage or extended warranty because, its just that reliable. You know there is one more thing, your right I do dream of something riding my Valkyrie, especially when most BMW's are sitting in the shop.
« Last Edit: August 24, 2017, 03:08:57 PM by Robert » Logged

“Some people see things that are and ask, Why? Some people dream of things that never were and ask, Why not? Some people have to go to work and don’t have time for all that.”
zackod
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Posts: 61


« Reply #8 on: August 24, 2017, 04:37:21 PM »

Things the BMW has i wish my Valk had:

160 horsepower / 129 ft lbs torque / ABS / electronically adjustable windshield / clutchless Shifting / heated seats+grips / cruise control / built-in GPS / Hill Start Assist / tire pressure monitoring / adaptive turning lights / reverse / audio system / alarm system / keyless ingition / 100+ lbs lighter / xenon headlights / three riding modes with traction control / Dynamic electronic suspension / hard luggage.

I demo'ed a K1600GT and that motor rips.     Initial price / maintenance and insurance costs / reliability concerns, and most importantly wife eruption prevent me from sitting down and attempting a deal.    Realize no dealing on the retail price, but would fight for reasonable valk trade in and maybe a helmet /  other accessory(s).  Me want one day.
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Robert
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S Florida


« Reply #9 on: August 24, 2017, 08:22:44 PM »

Things the BMW has i wish my Valk had:

160 horsepower / 129 ft lbs torque / ABS / electronically adjustable windshield / clutchless Shifting / heated seats+grips / cruise control / built-in GPS / Hill Start Assist / tire pressure monitoring / adaptive turning lights / reverse / audio system / alarm system / keyless ingition / 100+ lbs lighter / xenon headlights / three riding modes with traction control / Dynamic electronic suspension / hard luggage.

I demo'ed a K1600GT and that motor rips.     Initial price / maintenance and insurance costs / reliability concerns, and most importantly wife eruption prevent me from sitting down and attempting a deal.    Realize no dealing on the retail price, but would fight for reasonable valk trade in and maybe a helmet /  other accessory(s).  Me want one day.

 None of the extras with the exception of the more HP interests me. Xenon bulbs are around 100.00 with the starter module in the area of 400.00 just to give an idea of complexity and cost. Why would you really need an adjustable windshield, please, or the Hill assist, key less ignition might be ok if the key fob was not 400.00 with another 200 for programing if you lose it. The engineering BMW had to do to get the extra HP is another unwanted feature. Most every feature listed requires a computer to make it work. CHA CHING.. I am not impressed with the BMW cars or impressed enough with their bikes to go plunk down 30k. Its really a bummer to have a nice bike and have to call the dealer 20 times to try and get some action on the repair and no other real options. I think the labor rate is about 175.00 an hour also, for bikes not under warranty.

If there is a problem with the Valk I can get the codes and buy the part and fix it myself or at very least give it to some local guy who will repair it. So while I may not have a radio I love listening to the sound of my Valk with enough power to get someone excited and knowing I dont HAVE to be ripped off by the dealer.
« Last Edit: August 24, 2017, 08:42:10 PM by Robert » Logged

“Some people see things that are and ask, Why? Some people dream of things that never were and ask, Why not? Some people have to go to work and don’t have time for all that.”
zackod
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Posts: 61


« Reply #10 on: August 25, 2017, 02:52:35 AM »

Kinda like a judging woman Robert.   What i think is Ms Universe you may judge as ugly needing plastic surgery.   I've spent many many hours cutting my Honda tall windshield several times and changing it's lean angle so that wind does not buffet the hell out of my head at speed.   I'd love to have the option to lower it at lower speeds on those hot summer florida rides to get more air, that up it when i jump on the freeway for a long drone at high speed.    Power windshield gets that done in a few seconds.    That capability, and the other goodies the beemer has does not interest you, so be it.   
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Robert
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Posts: 16959


S Florida


« Reply #11 on: August 25, 2017, 03:53:07 AM »

Kinda like a judging woman Robert.   What i think is Ms Universe you may judge as ugly needing plastic surgery.   I've spent many many hours cutting my Honda tall windshield several times and changing it's lean angle so that wind does not buffet the hell out of my head at speed.   I'd love to have the option to lower it at lower speeds on those hot summer florida rides to get more air, that up it when i jump on the freeway for a long drone at high speed.    Power windshield gets that done in a few seconds.    That capability, and the other goodies the beemer has does not interest you, so be it.   

Yup can understand but there is one more thing I need to mention, where will the BMW be in 200,000 miles? I know some on the 1500 board have over 300k on their bikes. I know some Wings that have well over that. Do you think these bikes will make it to that kind of mileage? Do you think that having a bike for that long with the cost of repairs being so high will survive? I have learned that while having the latest and greatest is fun, I have also learned that once you have to pay for it and an aging bike its those very gadgets that make you part with your bike.

 On my 1500 I have about 60k and its about 15 years old and still goes strong and I have not put much in repairs. I have like you made modifications to change things that I didnt like or add chrome or an extra tank. That made it mine, many complain on the 14 Valk they cannot change it, the BMW is even harder if not impossible to change or personalize. I still occasionally go out start it and take a ride, some are even buying 20 year old bikes that work and look like new. 

All that I am saying is overall I have to disagree about the best bike. If you want a flash in the pan ride then it does have certain advantages, if you want something you can come out to in 15 years with say 200k on the odometer get on start and ride then Ok also. But I can modify my Valk making it almost perfect to ride and it will last, but you cannot do anything to the BMW once it starts to need repairs, since you have to go to the factory and it starts costing you. Those electronic gadgets get old real fast. I see it all the time, what would you do if repairing a failed windshield motor costs 900.00 on a 15 year old bike and dealer says the part is no longer available?

I have no trouble agreeing with you about the BMW being an awesome bike, just like the Bentley is an awesome car but like life riding is not based on one factor. To me giving up some electronics for Survivability and long term riding pleasure is well worth it. So in some peoples claims about the best bike just consider a few more factors other than bells and whistles that have been the hallmark of a true great ride.
« Last Edit: August 25, 2017, 04:13:04 AM by Robert » Logged

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zackod
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Posts: 61


« Reply #12 on: August 25, 2017, 06:57:30 AM »

As the current and original owner of a 16 yo Suzuki with 60k miles, I understand and appreciate your passion and love for your old bike, but that's what yours and mine are ... old bike / old technology.   When i do a Cycletrader look-up on my Bandit, the market shows it's selling for next to to anything.   It's worth the world to me.  I've read several 1500 threads where the owner is surprised at it's lower-than-expected resale value.    I would not look twice at buying either bike today given the fuel injected, light, high performance, safety orientated (ex ABS) new/used machines available.   I also don't have the talent, tools, nor time that los of guys on this board has, to dig through carbs nor address the many other issues that older bikes would bring.     I am thinking younger buyers feel the same way.

I remember the days when Power Steering, Power Seats, A/C, Fuel Injection, GPS, ABS , Air Bags, Crumple Zones (car body bends to absorb force) etc etc were considered superfluous (as you put it) "extras".  Time moves on and the technology in machines get better or the manufacturer dies.   They've been putting out that bike since 2010 in various forms (GL / GTL / and now Bagger).   Gotta believe one day day it will be a rock like our Valks.   Until so, I am willing to make a trip or three to a BMW to get something fixed (break during warranty period ..... please).    I embrace all of the new technology the BMW has to offer, and want it all.   You seem to dismiss it very easily - so be it.    Only reason I am not in one now is I highly fear my wife's reaction if I bring it home (google "Lorena Bobbitt").

God I hope I don't catch flames from the 1500 board.    They are really nice bikes fellas!

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Beardo
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Posts: 1247

Regina, Saskatchewan Canada


« Reply #13 on: August 25, 2017, 09:01:35 AM »

I've been researching new bikes as well. Every review I've read about the Bmw1600 has been very positive, it seems to win every shootout/comparison.

I was actually more interested in the R1200RT, just because it had that just-right-size and enough power for what I'm looking for. The 1600 was more than I'm willing to spend. I didn't want to go full-Goldwing because I city commute daily, but I do long 2-up tours too. Was looking for something that would be good for both, if thats possible.  I also researched BMW, FJRs, STs, Concours, etc.

What turned me off the BMW was the frequent valve adjustments and the fact you have to take your bike to the dealer for a lot of service, or buy the expensive tool to clear the service reminder and codes. I enjoy doing my own maintenance and don't want a bike I can't do my own service on.  They also have had frequent issues with final drive failures. Spark plugs and air filters are apparently hard to replace on the 1600. The closest dealer for me is a 3 hour ride from me, so that ruled them out. Spending $500+/yr for maintenance at the dealer isn't something that appeals to me.

If you have a dealer close by and don't mind taking it in to the dealer for maintenance, go for it. Sounds like a fantastic bike.  I don't care for all the electronics, traction control and gadgets, but i do understand why some people like them. If that's what you want, that's probably the best bike you can find.

I decided to look for a Goldwing because of the reliability and longevity, even though it's bigger than I want to go for city riding. But I can get a second smaller bike if I don't like commuting on it. I'm sure it'll be fine though, I commute just fine on the Valk and it isn't that much bigger.  Grin. Air filter and fork seals are nightmare...but I guess that'll be the case on any big touring bike.

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Robert
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Posts: 16959


S Florida


« Reply #14 on: August 25, 2017, 10:35:32 AM »


God I hope I don't catch flames from the 1500 board.    They are really nice bikes fellas!


 2funny 2funny
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Kidd
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Posts: 1159

Sedona


« Reply #15 on: August 25, 2017, 12:54:24 PM »

I've  owned  several BMWs and no problems , the last one , 2010 r1200r I rode for 27K miles  trouble free
Robert's  view is extremely narrow and perhaps jaded  considering  what he does for a living  .
I don't think he gets it , why people would want a BMW , it is a superior  riding experience , without a doubt , so it needs more attention  compared to the Honda , so what , you buy a BMW knowing that .
If I did not mind spending the money  , I'd have a BMW 1600 ( no luggage ) but I am not into all the tech stuff  but I can see why maybe people would be , I do understand it's appeal

Our bikes are purely hedonistic , expect to pay to keep it propped up .
Damn , my tires and R&R  cost is   over $500



As the current and original owner of a 16 yo Suzuki with 60k miles, I understand and appreciate your passion and love for your old bike, but that's what yours and mine are ... old bike / old technology.   When i do a Cycletrader look-up on my Bandit, the market shows it's selling for next to to anything.   It's worth the world to me.  I've read several 1500 threads where the owner is surprised at it's lower-than-expected resale value.    I would not look twice at buying either bike today given the fuel injected, light, high performance, safety orientated (ex ABS) new/used machines available.   I also don't have the talent, tools, nor time that los of guys on this board has, to dig through carbs nor address the many other issues that older bikes would bring.     I am thinking younger buyers feel the same way.

I remember the days when Power Steering, Power Seats, A/C, Fuel Injection, GPS, ABS , Air Bags, Crumple Zones (car body bends to absorb force) etc etc were considered superfluous (as you put it) "extras".  Time moves on and the technology in machines get better or the manufacturer dies.   They've been putting out that bike since 2010 in various forms (GL / GTL / and now Bagger).   Gotta believe one day day it will be a rock like our Valks.   Until so, I am willing to make a trip or three to a BMW to get something fixed (break during warranty period ..... please).    I embrace all of the new technology the BMW has to offer, and want it all.   You seem to dismiss it very easily - so be it.    Only reason I am not in one now is I highly fear my wife's reaction if I bring it home (google "Lorena Bobbitt").

God I hope I don't catch flames from the 1500 board.    They are really nice bikes fellas!


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If I like to go fast , does that make me a racist ???
Robert
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Posts: 16959


S Florida


« Reply #16 on: August 25, 2017, 02:12:40 PM »

Ive already got 22k on my bike, seems to me Ive hit a nerve here. I thought Harley owners were the only ones like this.  Shocked

I love bells and whistles and every review would give the bike good reviews because it does run well and handles well.

They do not review cost of ownership nor repairs so the reviews cannot be taken seriously since you have to figure in the maintenance factor.

You guys

 Why BMW Released Bike With So Many Problems?
http://www.k1600forum.com/forum/bmw-k1600-general-discussions/3751-why-bmw-released-bike-so-many-problems.html

 I am happy about this poll results so far because it gives me hope that my bike may be OK from now on.

2012 K1600GT with about 28000 miles, I have had the following issues:

1) two water pumps
2) 2 sets of left and right combination switches
3) starter replaced
4) engine heating issues.
5) engine coils replaced
6) new engine and transmission


2014 K1600GTLE, 3000 km (voted major):
1) fob factory recall
2) right hand (start) switch factory recall
3) starter problem (replaced under warranty): manufacturer working on new design which is expected by 3rd quarter of 2015

"There is a four times greater chance that a BMW will need repair than a Yamaha," said Consumer Reports' deputy editor Jeff Bartlett. "That's pretty significant, when you consider the cost of servicing a BMW is substantially higher. BMW makes great bikes, but the BMW owner has to have a few dollars set aside for repairs."

But Ducati and BMW owners can expect problems. The study predicted that 33% of new Ducatis and 40% of new BMWs will require repairs. Can-Am scored lowest, with 42%.


OK so what were you guys saying? Consumer reports is probably jaded also  2funny

I have no problem to say that BMW's handle great, have great power and maybe a bit better comfort, but the best bike, NO WAY. They do say that there is a a@@ for every seat so we are talking about preference and use. Unless you are a poser or occasional rider and have deep pockets it would not fit, but I really think the best bike is the Valkyrie not because its the fastest or best handling but because its a blast to ride and just gets you down the road in style for now and years to come. Now not all BMW's are like this but these top of the line computer laden bikes are the ones.

Hey when I grow up I want to be just like you guys and have the money to throw away on repairs or the cost of depreciation when you roll that thing off the showroom floor and not care.

To me my Valk is the best bike, many reviewers said so, Wings have millions of miles on them and Honda backs all that up with a killer warranty that you more than likely may not need.  Maybe we have a case of the tourtise and the hair here but really I love my Valk. 

I will also admit I may be a bit one sided in my choices since I look at reliability, serviceability and long term cost. To me if you want to ride a motorcycle then comfort is all relative. Heck your driving a motorcycle if you want comfort drive your car. But if I am stuck on the side of the road, or the bike breaks for one reason or another it just ruins your ride. Since I work on my own bike I dont like anyone servicing it either, just like a sick Dr is the worst patient since he knows whats being done. I want things done the correct way and not have to worry about scratches, waits, overcharges, dealing with A@@'s just another brick in the wall of making it to inconvenient to have. Would I consider a trade off on comfort for reliability, I sure would other wise I would own a BMW.

« Last Edit: August 25, 2017, 03:05:10 PM by Robert » Logged

“Some people see things that are and ask, Why? Some people dream of things that never were and ask, Why not? Some people have to go to work and don’t have time for all that.”
Savago
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Posts: 1994

Brentwood - CA


« Reply #17 on: August 25, 2017, 02:28:07 PM »

@Beardo: I was in a similar situation, looking for a bike that could be used to commute and long trips and that was newer than my I/S.

I decided to get a ST1300@2009 with 8K miles and I'm a happy camper.

It got enough tech (e.g. fuel injected, electric windshield), won't break the bank like a beemer, maintenance interval is long (e.g. 8K for oil changes, 16K for valve check and most people don't even bother as it is not really needed), 7.7 gallons gas tank, are built like a rock and oh, boy! That 1300cc V4 engine is a dream!

I'm over 6ft and it feels more comfortable than the fjr1300.
« Last Edit: August 25, 2017, 03:47:37 PM by Savago » Logged
98valk
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Posts: 13439


South Jersey


« Reply #18 on: August 25, 2017, 02:43:37 PM »

$27k???
u could buy two '81-82 Honda CBXs for that much, knowing they both will just go up in value, are easier to work on, and u will be envied by many.  Wink
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1998 Std/Tourer, 2007 DR200SE, 1981 CB900C  10speed
1973 Duster 340 4-speed rare A/C, 2001 F250 4x4 7.3L, 6sp

"Our Constitution was made only for a Moral and Religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the goverment of any other."
John Adams 10/11/1798
goldstar903
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Posts: 425


« Reply #19 on: August 26, 2017, 11:37:15 PM »

Buyer Beware! I was giving blood the other day and met another blood donor who happened to be an MD. Somehow we touched on the subject of motorcycles. He rides a lot of track days on his Yamaha R1, and he recently sold his BMW 1600 GTL. I told him that I had been interested in that model. He told me it was the worst bike that he had ever owned. He said that it was in the shop often, and get this.. that the worst thing was that the bike used a quart of oil every 1000 miles! No kidding! The service mechanic told him that was normal. Apparently it has to do with the piston rings. Maybe losing the oil wiper ring to lighten the piston? Not sure. Just reporting somebody's experience.  crazy2         
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I love to go fast, but my wallet doesn't! Maybe I should leave my wallet home!
Crabballs
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Posts: 89


« Reply #20 on: August 27, 2017, 04:11:41 AM »

Are there any real bikes other than Honda?  Been riding since the late 70s and I have always gravitated back to Honda.  I remember back in the day Yamaha used shims to adjust valves while Honda were adjustable.  Honda seems to make a bike that is user friendly and easy to repair. in the few times you have to.
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Kidd
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Posts: 1159

Sedona


« Reply #21 on: August 27, 2017, 07:45:29 AM »

I had a 1986 K100  BMW that I hated , used oil , was slow  and handled awful
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If I like to go fast , does that make me a racist ???
98valk
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Posts: 13439


South Jersey


« Reply #22 on: August 27, 2017, 08:08:01 AM »

Buyer Beware! I was giving blood the other day and met another blood donor who happened to be an MD. Somehow we touched on the subject of motorcycles. He rides a lot of track days on his Yamaha R1, and he recently sold his BMW 1600 GTL. I told him that I had been interested in that model. He told me it was the worst bike that he had ever owned. He said that it was in the shop often, and get this.. that the worst thing was that the bike used a quart of oil every 1000 miles! No kidding! The service mechanic told him that was normal. Apparently it has to do with the piston rings. Maybe losing the oil wiper ring to lighten the piston? Not sure. Just reporting somebody's experience.  crazy2         

wasn't correctly broken in to seat rings.  see motoman site. Honda breaks in bikes similar at end of production testing.   what manual says to do for break in is the worst thing to do.
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1998 Std/Tourer, 2007 DR200SE, 1981 CB900C  10speed
1973 Duster 340 4-speed rare A/C, 2001 F250 4x4 7.3L, 6sp

"Our Constitution was made only for a Moral and Religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the goverment of any other."
John Adams 10/11/1798
Kidd
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Posts: 1159

Sedona


« Reply #23 on: August 27, 2017, 09:08:13 AM »

Well , like they say , BMW is Europe's Harley
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If I like to go fast , does that make me a racist ???
bscrive
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Posts: 2539


Out with the old...in with the wooohoooo!!!!

Ottawa, Ontario


« Reply #24 on: August 27, 2017, 09:35:33 AM »

I can honestly say that I would never trade my Valk for a K1600 or any other bike.  My Valk is perfect for me.  cooldude
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If global warming is happening...why is it so cold up here?
ledany
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Posts: 509

Paris, FRANCE


« Reply #25 on: August 27, 2017, 12:25:36 PM »

Well , like they say , BMW is Europe's Harley
O no, we have Harleys in Europe too !  2funny

The fact is that beemers ride a lot, at least more than the average motorcycle riders and in winter time, BMWs are the bikes you see the most (on the road I mean  2funny).

I have no owner experience of the K16 but of the K100, R1100R, R80 GS, R100 GS, K1200 R, K1200 GT and R 1200 GS 2013. I love these bikes, I was lucky because I have had no major trouble, I still believe BMWs are reliable and the R1200 GS the best bike ever. Yes, they have problems that may be spectacular or inacceptable but that was not my experience.

I'm just back  from a short trip in the south of France (1000 mls), the Valk was lovable (4000 rpm,  minimum 40,83 mpg, maximum 31,48 mpg) : no problem whatsoever  angel  cooldude
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goldstar903
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Posts: 425


« Reply #26 on: August 27, 2017, 04:52:13 PM »

Buyer Beware! I was giving blood the other day and met another blood donor who happened to be an MD. Somehow we touched on the subject of motorcycles. He rides a lot of track days on his Yamaha R1, and he recently sold his BMW 1600 GTL. I told him that I had been interested in that model. He told me it was the worst bike that he had ever owned. He said that it was in the shop often, and get this.. that the worst thing was that the bike used a quart of oil every 1000 miles! No kidding! The service mechanic told him that was normal. Apparently it has to do with the piston rings. Maybe losing the oil wiper ring to lighten the piston? Not sure. Just reporting somebody's experience.  crazy2         

wasn't correctly broken in to seat rings.  see motoman site. Honda breaks in bikes similar at end of production testing.   what manual says to do for break in is the worst thing to do.

My man, Pat McGivern (Motoman) I've followed his break-in method on all my bikes. I used his method coming home (60 miles) from the dealer with my Valkyrie, then immediately changed my oil. I thought I read that Honda seats the rings in the same way? I have an 87' Kawi 750R with a Muzzy motor. They recommended that I have my head ported (flow bench) and polished. Lost my mid-range. I had to modify my needles, and it still doesn't run well. They opened up my ports too much! Had I known about Motoman, I'd have a better running bike! He seems to have disappeared. His website is still up, but it seems like nothing new for quite some time!  Undecided     
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I love to go fast, but my wallet doesn't! Maybe I should leave my wallet home!
RDKLL
Member
*****
Posts: 1222


VRCC #1231 VRCCDS #271

Mesa, AZ


« Reply #27 on: August 28, 2017, 04:52:29 AM »

Hey,
Congrats on the new bike! We are loving our expensive Austrian KTM with spotty dealer coverage, costly warranty and whatever other negatives that were mentioned. I didnt read everything on the BMW you are getting but I imagine its has cornering ABS, Traction Control, heated grips and saddle, self cancelling signals, semi-active suspension, our Super Duke GT does.

Congrats on the new bike please post up more about after you take delivery.

Ride hard but ride safe!
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Robert
Member
*****
Posts: 16959


S Florida


« Reply #28 on: August 30, 2017, 04:05:23 AM »

Hey,
Congrats on the new bike! We are loving our expensive Austrian KTM with spotty dealer coverage, costly warranty and whatever other negatives that were mentioned. I didnt read everything on the BMW you are getting but I imagine its has cornering ABS, Traction Control, heated grips and saddle, self cancelling signals, semi-active suspension, our Super Duke GT does.

Congrats on the new bike please post up more about after you take delivery.

Ride hard but ride safe!

 cooldude cooldude cooldude
Agreed
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“Some people see things that are and ask, Why? Some people dream of things that never were and ask, Why not? Some people have to go to work and don’t have time for all that.”
blackvalk
Member
*****
Posts: 302

PARK CITY, UTAH


« Reply #29 on: August 30, 2017, 07:53:35 PM »

Robert,

As I said in the original post, I wasn't looking for approval, but, I appreciate your comments.

I've loved every Honda I have owned but they all need the same things improved.

1. ABS...............SAFETY
2. Self cancelling turn signals.................SAFETY
3. More comfortable seats...............CREATURE COMFORTS

Those are the things that Honda must improve on.

The engines are bullet proof as is the rest of the bike.

Anytime I've had a problem, I caused it.

I haven't decided what to do for the new bike but I am starting to think, I don't want to spend $30k

Thanks again,

Bill
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RDKLL
Member
*****
Posts: 1222


VRCC #1231 VRCCDS #271

Mesa, AZ


« Reply #30 on: August 31, 2017, 05:04:40 AM »

I think the thing I was most determined to do after figuring out that the Ducati X Diavek S was not going to get it done for us was to find a bike that was the one that had the nicest suite of safety equipment and features. I know that over time it will trickle down to even entry level price points.
My only real gripe with the Super Duke GT...the cruise control is on the right grip, and it was a little jerky until I got used to it...and I burned my butt a little when I turned the heated seat to max when I needed min
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dans2014
Member
*****
Posts: 438



« Reply #31 on: August 31, 2017, 06:31:03 AM »

I agree Blackvalk.  Honda is behind on key safety items. Hopefully they will step up to the plate asap
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Dan's 2014 Valkyrie
Bill Havins
Member
*****
Posts: 413


A roadster!

Abilene, Texas


« Reply #32 on: September 01, 2017, 12:49:07 PM »

Bill,

I've been a bit uncomfortable with some of the responses to your thread.  But this is social media so people have the right, and are encouraged to share their opinions.  I have always held the position that the more variety there is in motorcycle models the better off we are.  Competition leads to better machines.  And innovation does too.  But let's face it - innovation includes risk.  Sometimes it works, and sometimes it fails.  And sometimes owners bear the financial burden for failed innovation.

For many years I traveled with a fellow who rode BMWs almost exclusively.  But that was back in the day of carburetors so the only real innovation I watched him ride was the single-sided swingarm.  I thought it was really, really strange.  Now I'm riding a single-sided swingarm, too.  But more than thirty years have passed.

Regarding new scooters in the class of the Valkyrie, the only other bike I seriously considered was the Moto Guzzi Eldorado.  I did test rides on the Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring and the 1400 Custom.  Wonderful, wonderful scooters with all the right safety features (ABS, traction control, and 3 rider-selectable MAPs).  But I had ridden Guzzis for almost 40 years and was ready to change to a brand where I had closer dealer support (I didn't want to have to work on my bike anymore, hmmmm...).  And there is an older Guzzi with, then, modern electronics, that kept losing its dash display.  (Small manufacturers are at the mercy of their suppliers and, when those suppliers blow it, the manufacturers' reputations suffer.  Guzzi took the blame for the instrument clusters.)  The new Eldorado and other 1400s use a display that is really nice.  But with my poor detail vision I couldn't read it at speed.  So, despite my heart saying, "Buy it anyway!," I had to pass.

I won't ever let myself spend more than $20K for a scooter.  And all of the Beemers are just too tall for me to pilot safely when Judy is on the back.  So while I was shopping I didn't look at BMWs at all.

I almost passed on my Valkyrie, too.  But I knew my dealer and his staff, and they said they would be supportive of me as I turned it into the touring bike I wanted (and they have been; I can't divulge everything they've done).  It has turned out to be my favorite scooter of all time.  And in a few weeks we're headed to the Grand Canyon via every little Rocky Mountains road I can find on the map.  We can't wait to go!

Good luck with your hunting for a new scooter.  And give the Moto Guzzi Eldorado a close look.  The red one - it's a lot faster.... http://www.motoguzzi.com/us_EN/moto/cruiser/Eldorado/Eldorado/

Oh, my!

Bill


« Last Edit: September 01, 2017, 12:53:55 PM by Bill Havins » Logged

"So many windmills, so little time." - Don Quixote
"Dawg I hate windmills!" - Sancho Panza
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