I purchased my 2015 RTW (San Marino Blue)last December, but I decided to leave it in storage at the dealership until I sold my R1200R. I had to take my R in for some servicing, and since a couple of parts needed to be ordered, I decided to leave the R and bring the RTW home .
I did not have the opportunity to drive any of the latest generation prior to buying (I was called in to work on every BMW test drive day), so I had a chance to really find the differences between a wethead and my old hexhead.
Pros:
The bike is incredibly smooth and light feeling on the road. I had no problem with tossing the bike around on the highway or on the country roads I take to get home. The power windscreen was great for getting airflow while reducing buffeting around my helmet. And cruise control, too!
Need to get used to these:
The wonder wheel may be a great feature, but I really need to spend time getting used to how it works. I kept moving features while using the turn signals. Speaking of signals, I will have to get accustomed to having one switch on the left bar. The seat is a bit flatter than my old bike, but at least I no longer slide my bits into the tank while braking! Also need to get familiar with where the power band is on the new bike. I was able to cruise my old bike at 60 mph in fifth gear, turning just under 4000 rpm. That same range will now get me speeding tickets.
Cons:
I thought I had plenty of room for seating when I sat on the bikes in the showroom. On the road with my gear on, the seating position is a bit tighter than I imagined. I stand 6'1" in bare feet, 32" inseam, and a size 13 foot, and I have to plan where I stick my left foot when I want to shift. A set of peg extensions will be in order (any recommendations ). After that, I will see if I need bar risers. Beyond those minor ergonomic quibbles, no major issues.
I haven't had a chance to clean or photograph it yet, but I will post it to the photos section soon.
I did not have the opportunity to drive any of the latest generation prior to buying (I was called in to work on every BMW test drive day), so I had a chance to really find the differences between a wethead and my old hexhead.
Pros:
The bike is incredibly smooth and light feeling on the road. I had no problem with tossing the bike around on the highway or on the country roads I take to get home. The power windscreen was great for getting airflow while reducing buffeting around my helmet. And cruise control, too!
Need to get used to these:
The wonder wheel may be a great feature, but I really need to spend time getting used to how it works. I kept moving features while using the turn signals. Speaking of signals, I will have to get accustomed to having one switch on the left bar. The seat is a bit flatter than my old bike, but at least I no longer slide my bits into the tank while braking! Also need to get familiar with where the power band is on the new bike. I was able to cruise my old bike at 60 mph in fifth gear, turning just under 4000 rpm. That same range will now get me speeding tickets.
Cons:
I thought I had plenty of room for seating when I sat on the bikes in the showroom. On the road with my gear on, the seating position is a bit tighter than I imagined. I stand 6'1" in bare feet, 32" inseam, and a size 13 foot, and I have to plan where I stick my left foot when I want to shift. A set of peg extensions will be in order (any recommendations ). After that, I will see if I need bar risers. Beyond those minor ergonomic quibbles, no major issues.
I haven't had a chance to clean or photograph it yet, but I will post it to the photos section soon.