Making K1200R a tourer

[zacharymay]

I think you should track down a k12r sport as well, mtkeehan. I currently ride one. My prior ride was a R12ST, and I was astonished at the amount of wind buffetting on the k12r sport. I can't imagine trying to tour on a naked k12r, even with a ZTechnic screen. I'm fairly happy with my k12r sport as a touring bike, although I'd like to invest in some lower pegs. The stock seat is also fairly uncomfortable on the long haul, so that's something that you should consider as well.

 

[jrschrum]

K1200s

I use a K1200S as my tour bike. I used a different wind screen (MRA) with an adjustable wind deflector on the top, a Bags Connection tank bag hard mounted to the fuel filler, and a Bags Connection rear rack with bag. I also used a MFW adjustable foot pegs on the main pegs, and these allow quick adjustment to 8 different settings (low, low back, back, high back, high, etc). Also use the same pegs for the passenger pegs, which allows extending my legs to the back pegs, while clearing the BMW bags.

With an Alaska Leathers seat pad, I did Boston to SF in around 55 hours this fall. It was a bit over 3000 miles. The K bike was wonderful, and more comfortable to me than the R1200RT I rode over the same route 2 years previous. The lack of a cruise control was the worst part of the trip. Mileage was around 40-45 at 80-85 constant speed. I am 6' 2'', and found the trip enjoyable.

Most of the accessories I picked up are available for the R. (windscreen may take some looking into...). I did find that the return trip with temps in the 30's, it got a bit cold at 35 degrees during the night, so the return trip took a bit longer. (found hotels at night were the cure for th cold weather!).

Good luck,
John