Why BMW.

[kidtwist]

This wasn't a major factor but the local BMW dealerships around here have older salesmen who really know the product line. For some reason, all the local Honda, Suzuki (etc) dealerships have "saleskids" who look like they're in high school and they never seem to work there long. I don't know if it's like that everywhere though.

[dew]

What else is there?

[CBagley]

Originally Posted by Dano

Hey all.
I have a silly question for you. Why did you all choose a BMW? I have always liked the sleek look and style of a BMW, but what was the deciding factor that made you buy one? I think they are very cool looking, but they are also pricey as far as I'm concerned! Just a friendly question!!

Worthy question!
I chose my BMW R 1200R for it's excellent all-around features, making it a perfect commuter. I found the BMW handled better than any bike I'd tried. It also has amazing throttle response and engine performance. In my opinion, the BMW is more reliable than others. Do a full walk-around of any year of BMW and you'll notice the superior engineering, aimed for the rider. I'm not short enough to fit most bikes but these bikes have been made to personally fit each rider. Getcha one!

If price is an issue, buy used... depending, you'd still be getting a whole lot of bike.

[gunnar]

I got my BMW because it has a very comfortable riding position now if I can just get it running I will be set

[wilymx]

I just joined this forum a few minutes ago, but what I've seen so far looks good. I bought my BMW last fall, a 2003 R1500RT, with 13k miles on it. This is my first bike, I've taken the MC safety course, and I'm learning how to ride this thing. I bought it because of the reliability, ease of working on, and most importantly, the safety of ABS brakes. It is also very comfortable for a tall person.

[lexaaa]

BMW should have stuck to cars !!!

[kidtwist]

Originally Posted by lexaaa

BMW should have stuck to cars !!!

They made motorcycles before they made cars.

[2006 Hayabusa]

Ill buy a beemer when i can afford one. Which will probably be right around when i win the lotto lol

[Jethrol]

Originally Posted by kidtwist

They made motorcycles before they made cars.

haha...I have a t-shirt that says, "I never knew BMW made cars until I passed one."

I kind of like their new offering the R 1200 R and the HP2 is looking very sweet.

[tcal158]

As a new MC rider I was looking for a lightweight, low center of gravity bike that had a reputation as an easy riding bike. I found that with the BMW f650cs. Nothing thats going to get me in trouble (i.e. big, fast engine) as a new rider. Has ABS and heated grips. Its been a good beginner bike for me.

[Ringo]

Originally Posted by lexaaa

BMW should have stuck to cars !!!

BMW put their first bike out in 1923,

What a maroon

[kthkern]

I just bought a 2007 BMW F800ST.... I love the ride!

[RichC]

I bought a 1986 K75.

Bought it because of their history of longevity the build quality of the bike.
And the comfort of the seating position.
And the ease of do it yourself repair.

I paid $1600 for a bike with 50,000 miles that will hopefully, with some luck and good maintainence,
last me another 200,000 miles before a major overhall of the engine.

One downfall is the life of the half shaft.
Hopefull I will not need to replace mine soon.

A friend had a K100, and it was one heck of a bike.

[bmw4me]

My wife thought it was a lot more comfortable to ride on than my 1100 gold wing.

[67fire]

Several years ago, I went to the BMW dealer and the owner "forced me" to ride every single model! I rode 12 bikes in 8 hours and did not find one that I did not like! (he even told me that if I rode too long to just take it home and return it tomorrow as they were closed. ) I was seconds away from purchasing a Ferrari Red bike with full sport-bike fairing and ABS for $16,000. The ONLY thing that made me NOT buy it, was the fact that the fairing did nothing to keep the engine heat off of me.
I am sure that they have since corrected that problem. Now, they are coming out with a kick-butt model that will be available later this year. I WILL be taking one for a ride!

Eric

[ehime]

Dumb answer but, Why NOT BMW?
It's better to ask yourself that in retrospect.
One of the greatest road going cars, makes
a pretty good d@mned bike as well.

[daver80]

First- they are different than everything else you see out there- Harleys and sportbikes, Harleys and sportbikes, Harleys and sportbikes

Second- Beemer riders crank a lot of miles, wear correct gear, think safety.

Third- the bikes go a long time- my 86 has 110K miles on it and counting (well not really counting, my odometer is broken)

Fourth- They are quite. I hate straight pipe cruisers and screaming yogurt cups.

Guess thats it! Love my airhead.

[boba7523]

I think solely based on the brand's reputation and fame.

[mulutchoker]

im gettig ready to buy my first one,itll be used,ive been riding harleys since way before they became a fashion statement but have always been a closet BMW rider.

[Mr. Coolbeans]

+1

[halfthrottle]

I bought my BMW because it is the Alpha and Omega of motorcycles. I have put my GS through hell, and come out the other side no problem. My biggest trip was Utah to Panama and back. 9 different countries, 13,000 miles, many drops and tip over. Nothing but oil changes.

[Mr. Coolbeans]

I to have 30 years of HD and want to try something new. I test road the bike today. I loved everything except the three stalls when I let go of the throttle. Deal breaker on any bike and especially a $18K + bike. I ran into a similar TPS problem with the Ducati SF. Loss of power between 25-3K then bam, it kicks in like a rocket booster. I'm not qualified to handle a bike that powerful with those issues. I know any car manufacture, especially BMW would have this corrected immediately or face catastrophic sales losses. BMW and Ducati motorcycle owners must be a real loyal customers. I guess it will take someone getting killed, before its deemed nessarry to fix these bugs. I have always been told how poor quality the HD are in comparison to Italian and jap bikes. But I don't know of any issues like this with any HD off the Showroom floors. I'm not here to bash BMW. Just the opposite, the K13S was plan B. And I'm very disappointed. Plan C is a MV Agusta, Brutal, if their arn't any TPS issues. Otherwise back to HD for me.

[JeffC]

I did it for the status. I used to ride a moped around, and always wanted to be a BMW guy some day. Now I am. All the girls love me, and bankers chase me down the road to talk motorcycles, oh and ask me if I want a loan for another one. Which I do. ……..

[fran55343]

Originally Posted by JeffC

I did it for the status. I used to ride a moped around, and always wanted to be a BMW guy some day. Now I am. All the girls love me, and bankers chase me down the road to talk motorcycles, oh and ask me if I want a loan for another one. Which I do. ……..

Hmm, I usually have other people ask me for loans when I'm on the BMW. Interesting reversal of thought there.

[stoked]

I bought a 2009 G 650 Xcountry last week. When I drove it off of the lot, I had not ridden a motorcycle in 25 years. I looked at a lot of bikes. They are not made of equal materials and the thought that is put in to BMW engineering is superior. I could have bought a faster, bigger bike from just about any other manufacturer but the 3 year warranty and the reputation for excellence won me over in the end. I live on the island of Oahu, Hawaii and the xcounty is perfect for sprinting to the beach or nipping in to town. People comment on it neary every time I take it out. The majority of the comments are the same. "That looks fun". It is fun and it's safe. Most all other bikes in it's class weigh over 100 pounds more and only come with a 1 year warranty.

[cowboys647]

I have owned my 91 k75 since i was 15 and its been nothing but perfect. Always reliable on the many trips that ive taken it on, nice and soothing exhaust purr, fast enough when i get on it although i wouldnt mine trading my brother who has a r1100s. My dad and his dad have always had bmws so i think thats what influenced me the most.

[ForbesMotorcycles]

Originally Posted by redlinedave

I did a test drive event and rode the 1200,I didnt like it.It is too big,too heavy and too gentlemanly.I didnt like
the smooth power delivery.It may be because of the fuel injection.When I ride a bike I like a"punch in the face"
type accelleration.

I have a 2007 K1200S, with 167 hp. I'm 140 lbs and I'll work that bike all day at the track... Given its not as light as a liter superbike, you just have to have the confidence to throw your weight around. The smooth power delivery is the beauty of the bike, you can go out for a nice leisurely ride or, you can take it to the track and wined out every gear with the front wheel in the air. Maybe you were a little hesitant to get on the throttle a bit... So an 800 or 650 is better suited for you.

[82jeepster]

Beamers are great!

[mriley]

BMW is just a smoother ride than others. simple as that. ive been on the back of my dads harley and ive been on the back of my dads new RT and the difference is incredible, its a smoother ride, more comfortable, and more reliable. but hey thats just my opinion

[Photo_Jock]

Why BMW?

My first BMW was for function. I was living in Korea and really wanted a HD NightRod. Having had driven in Seoul traffic with my car for a couple years I realized that I needed something skinnier with some clearance in case I had to get on the sidewalk in a hurry and with enough power to get out in front of the crowd at stoplights. (like anyone ever stopped for stoplights there!) It had to be nimble too, which is not what the HD was.

I tried the KTM but for the same price as the BMW they were lacking in features. I ended up with a F650GS with adjustable suspension, heated handgrips, a 12v power outlet, ABS brakes, AND a single coffee can sized piston to power me through traffic and rice patties. The adjustable suspension was AWESOME. With a few twists on the knob I could tighten up the rear to handle the twisties on NamSan or loosen it up for the pot hole riddled back roads and dirt.

When I moved back to the US I learned the hard way the 650 was not suited well to DC traffic. The strait up seating position made me into a huge sail and the thumper engine shook my eyeballs after commuting for an hour or so each way.

I guess I wanted a sports bike that didn't treat me like a 15th century torture device and still throw down respectable numbers. I tried the Gixxer 1000 and the Honda 1000RR AND the R1 but they were too flinchy. Not to mention the super aggressive seating position was killing my back and wrists after only a short 10 to 15 minute ride.

The BMW K1200s fit me perfectly. The 1200 is the perfect size for me (6'1" 235lbs) and puts out 176hp and 100+ ft/lb torque. 0-100 in about 4 sec and that is with only one shift. For a big bike it handles like a sports bike but is comfortable for longer commutes. The rear 190 tire takes me down to draggin boot angles but feels planted just cruising down the highway.

Plus, it is beautiful in a very understated way. No super flashy paint with race stripes at crazy angles and high contrast colors, just those yellow racing wheels with a matte silver finish. I ended up painting it gunmetal grey but I am pulling the panels back off this afternoon to prep her for a very unique finish I want to try out. Oh, I put 6,000 miles on her from Feb - Nov 2009.

Bang for the buck I'd say there isn't a better bike. . . . for me. Everybody has different tastes but I would suggest anyone head to a BMW dealer before making your purchase, they let you test drive whatever you want, just to see if there is a model for you. Especially if they have a leftover from the prior model year. That's what I did and got a HUGE discount.

MAN, I can't wait to ride again!

John

[67fire]

Still waiting for a call from my dealer for a test ride on this one!

http://sn102w.snt102.mail.live.com/d...?wa=wsignin1.0

Eric

[snookers]

Hey all.
I have a silly question for you. Why did you all choose a BMW?

I've wanted one of these babies since I first laid my eyes on them in the seventies........style...reliability.....shaft drive.....now that the family is all grown up, it's time for me and my bride to carry on where we left off.
We bought ourselves a used year 2000 R1100RT and plan to do some touring with it. I'll pick up the bike when the snow is gone......can't wait for the adventure to begin again !!

[CBagley]

I picked my R1200R because I wanted a bike that would keep me saying, "wow." I got it for the same price as a Kawasaki, and I wasn't about to give up the opportunity to ride the best.
Since then, I've tried everything from the Ducatis (desmo, monster, streetfighter) to the Kawis (versys, etc...) and I'm always happy to get back on my R1200R.

Find a bike like that. Especially if it'll stick around for more than 60,000miles. Like what you have. Keep what you have. Get off the forum and start riding!

[joncallihan]

I bought my first one -- a K100LT -- used in the middle of the winter from a guy that lived on top of a mountain. It was an '87, I got it in March (I think), 1993. I had been out of rider mode for about 8 years at the time.

My son was the catalyst for the sale -- he was on his second BMW at the time, he now has his 100K badge (gained on his third BMW).

After 4 very good years, I traded the '87 for a '97 K1100LT.

Now, I have a Honda 600cc scooter. I traded the BMW because my age and arthritis caught up with me and I need a less tippy bike.

The only disadvantage I know of in a BMW is the top-heavy feeling.

Jon

[vadertime]

There are several reasons for this and I am on my second R-type bike in 3 years.
Here are a few reasons:
1) Dependability - let it sit for a month, and it'll start right up
2) Durability - boxers typically go over 100K miles without a problem
3) Advanced features - ABS has been standard for over 10 years
4) Fuel Injection - been standard for over 10 years
5) Reputation - BMW has been making bikes since 1921, continously

Coolness, speed and power are available on a lot of other bikes. The ego trip is prevalent the large HDs, like my sisters superglide. But, for the kind of confidence, handling and performance I would only choose the BMW. I'm pretty much a BMW devotee for life, now.

[Jethrol]

Originally Posted by mriley

BMW is just a smoother ride than others. simple as that. ive been on the back of my dads harley and ive been on the back of my dads new RT and the difference is incredible, its a smoother ride, more comfortable, and more reliable. but hey thats just my opinion

Your experience and mine are completely different.

When I rode my R1200C regularly, everyone asked about the ride. Being my first big cruiser I said, "Awesome!" and I really believed it. I mean how was I to know because I hadn't ridden that many miles yet and only had this one experience.

After 10 or 12k miles, I decided to buy a HD Softail...it's actually my cross bones and it's a creampuff. I've never ridden a bike so comfortable and when I jump back on my BMW, the ride difference is quite noticeable.

Anyways, that's kind of off topic....sorry.

I don't have anything against BMWs, in fact quite the opposite. I love them....I just wish my experience was much different than it was. I still think I'm going to get an GS Adventure at some point. It looks like a total utility bike that can be ridden hard and put away wet....constantly and still come back for more.

[QuantumMechanic]

The reason I ride a BWM is Harley Davidsons. I rode Harleys for 14 years of my two wheeled life and I had reached a point with their lack of dependablity where I was on the verge of giving up motorcycling altogether. By chance I acquired a 1983 R80ST. That bike taught me what motocycling is all about. It was tougher than any of the Harleys I ever owned in terms of going the distance, going there fast and NOT BREAKING DOWN. That bike LOVED 80 mph; it would purr there all day long. I rode the R80 to the west coast and back several times; I wish I still had it. In approximate order:

1966 BSA Thunderbolt Scrambler - did not have this one long - a POS
1964 BSA Victor 441 - this was a fun bike when you could get it to crank
1959 HD Pan Head custom (I was told is was a 59, never was sure)
1972 HD Sportster 1000cc - best handling HD of them all but was a POS
1979 HD Low Rider AMF HD - worst of them all
1983 BMW R80ST - my favorite of all time - should have never sold it
1988 BMW K1000 - Pearl White with a blue leather seat - great bke
1974 BMW R90/6 - super good running, smooth and dependable
1992 BMW K75c - good bike but not enough power for me
1994 Kawasaki ZX11 - a beast; god awful fast; unbelievable power above 400 rpm
1996 BMW K1100 RS - great bike - I should have kept this one
1998 BMW K1200 RS - great bike - I should have kept this one
2001 BMW K1200 LT - LT stands for Light Truck (top heavy)
2004 Honda VTX1800 - incredible power (torque) but was a back breaker to ride
2005 GoldWing GL1800 better than the K1200 LT but too big for me
2005 K1200s Blue and white BMW's first true crotch rocket - great bike - same class as the Kawasaki
2005 Honda St1300 - still have this one - a really good horse I have it fully farkelized
1981 BMW R100 RS fully retored - still have this one - I intend to ride this one until it or I croak, whichever comes first.

Ownership periods of thes bike overlapped in many cases - never had room for more than three!

Cheers!

QM

[Jethrol]

Ya know...HD has really changed a lot since the '79 models.

[QuantumMechanic]

Originally Posted by Jethrol

Ya know...HD has really changed a lot since the '79 models.

They have not changed enough to recapture my interest. I have watched Harley Davidson pound out the same mediocrity yeay after year. Only the details change; more or less chrome is about it IMO. I'm not about bashing Harleys; I simply don't care enough to do that, to each his own. I certainy do not think less of anyone because they ride a HOG; I'm glad they're out there doing it. It is simply that I have been there, done that and the doing of it was a poor experience.

Since my Harley days I have ridden bikes that handle far better, had far more response both in acceleration and stopping power, rode smoother with no vibration, and simply didn't break down. I love the IDEA of Harley Davidson but the reality of experience falls short of the dream. Ride your Harley; one day you will ride something else and you will understand.

-QM-

[Jethrol]

Originally Posted by QuantumMechanic

Ride your Harley; one day you will ride something else and you will understand.

-QM-

Perhaps you didn't read my signature and/or my other posts in this thread. I'm far from the guy that knows all about different makes and models but in my limited experience, HD rides much better than my BMW.

HD has stopped many of the engine problems that used to plague them and they have much larger engines that run well and are very dependable. However, I know they're far from perfect.....just like BMW is far from perfect also.

I don't dislike BMWs and I'll probably buy another one in the years to come. My experience simply hasn't lived up to that described by other BMW owners. It might have something to do with the model I chose.