Quote:
Originally Posted by MrSurly
Excellent report, Russ. I'm glad you're liking the new ride!
here's the question that I want explored: I would've assumed (and maybe others as well) that you would've been all over the 1600 tourer; what were your thoughts in selecting the boxer over the 1600?
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Quote:
Originally Posted by d j
10K.
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Yup, 10 grand was a big factor.
The K1600GTL is a really nice bike. It's loaded with even more tech than the RT, and the riding position is a little more laid back. It' also got 160 horsepower, which is nice.
In short, it's a German interpretation of a 'Wing or and Ultra, and I didn't want that. The RT is 200 pounds lighter, and lighter is gooder. The GTL handles really well and goes like stink, but the weight is always present. It's 100 pounds lighter than the BSL, but you'd never know that while riding it.
To make matters worse, the RT does a better job with wind management and the seat's more comfortable (though I'll still probably end up changing it in the future). Then there's the whole issue of buying a first-year bike, and the benefit of a simple, air-cooled engine over that beast of a 6.
My hope is that the RT suits our needs for the next 5 years or so (especially since I paid for 5 years of unlimited-mileage warranty), and then look at adding a GTL as our long-distance bike. Of course, that goes out the window if Dana is miserable on our first trip.