K1300S 1700 mi

FXS · 09-19-2009, 09:28 PM

Have 1700+ on my Bavarian Beast. Heres my impressions.
Ergos are good. Fits me 5'10" @ 175. All the controlls are easy to use / reach. Recall on handlebar switch assembly. My right side was replaced, no more issue.
Riding position is surprisingly comfortable once I used more "leg" and took the pressure off my wrists.(old bones).
Handles realy well for a 1300cc hyper-sport-touring missle.Not what I'd call "flickable" but nimble none the less. I've rubbed my left boot a few times without really trying. Scared the *&^$% outta me the first time as I'm comming off a cruiser. Transmits a good feel of the road to the rider with the Duo-Lever front end. The fact that the nose does not dive when braking was wierd at first.
The brakes are awsome. Linked ABS is a beautifull thing. I've hauled it down from warp speed in no time. The phenominal engine braking took a little to get used to, but now is a welcome benifit of 13:1 compression.
The "shift-assist" is fun. A Hall-effect switch allows you to upshift at any throttle opening without using the clutch.
The engine is a marvel.Has enough torque to throttle it anywhere from 3000 rpm on up. If you downshift a couple of gears and hammer it , it will re attach a torn retna. Goes like a scallded cat. Second gear will take you to three digits in a heartbeat.
The onboard computer can display time,mpg, ambient temp, oil level, avg speed, range with available fuel, and miles to go when you hit reserve.
Cant believe with all the BMW touring nuts out there they don't have a compass.!?!
The shznit though (here come the starbucks jokes) are the heated grips ! First time I used them, it took me awhile to stop grinning.
When I do more miles, I'll post more impressions..............M

McCrimmon · 09-20-2009, 03:56 AM

Excellent! So when do we get a test ride

I looked at one when I was in the BMW dealer earlier this year...Very sweet bike!

BigMike919 · 09-20-2009, 06:57 AM

I still

about the compass! Amazing bike though... as long as you don't mind not knowing what direction you're going in!

At least you didn't get stuck with one of those Street Fighters! Now you need to find the local bike night and start smokin Gixxers...

Mayday · 09-20-2009, 12:17 PM

Hey FXS, I read an article on those the other day. It had nothing but good things to say. I bet it is a shocker coming off a cruiser. Sweet ride, I'm jealous! Post up a pic or two so I can be even more jealous!

Steve