New(ish) to BMW

[chappie01]

Hi All
I'm going to be looking at a 2013 R1200RT this weekend and it's been a while since I have been in the BMW world. I've been riding Goldwings for the past 22 years and it's time for a lighter bike. I'm quite short and 65 years old.
I have a couple of questions if you could be so kind.

1. The powerlet socket. Will it handle a Gerbing jacket liner and gloves - about 7 amps for the liner and 2 1/2 for the gloves? I have read on the forum that it's better to have a separate powerlet circuit because of the Canbus system but I assumed that the purpose of the circuit was for accessories - that and a battery maintainer? What happens if it gets overloaded? I can easily add a circuit after I get it home but I have a long ride and it's cold!

2. Suspension. The front and rear can be lowered via shocks and springs by an aftermarket supplier ie: Ted Porter's Beemer Shop and I will lose travel but retain the stock ground clearance? This and the addition of a Sargent low seat should help me a bit. Any problems with this - I'm a pretty conservative rider and more or less stick to the speed limit.

Thanks for any advice you could offer and I'm looking forward to a new adventure. I've had a R100RT and a K75RT so I'm a little familiar with the brand.
Ron

 

[Dann]

AFAIK the output of the power socket is 10A total no matter how many sockets you have.
It should be enough for your needs (Barely)

Although I have two sockets on my bike, I never use them. I use an SAE connection directly from the battery (Some people use a power distribution module) which allows enough power to run all my heated gear. (Jacket, gloves,pants & socks (14A))

YMMV

 

[pappy35]

Hi Chappie,

Welcome to the forum. I have a 29" inseam and have a 2013 RT with the factory lowered suspension. I don't have any trouble with the slightly lower ground clearance and unless you have some unusual topology to traverse this would be no issue. I've sat on a few previous generation Goldwings and find that my ground reach is about the same. I would not worry about it. The 2013 is the last year of that generation RT (we call it a Camhead) and is rock-solid and very easy to maintain if you like to wrench. Certainly way easier than the Wing.