BMW R1200S (2006-2007)

I've just sold my R1200S, which I owned for nearly 4 years. I traded in for for my next bike and got 67% of the value I originally paid for it back. Now that is value for money. Its by far and away the best bike I've ever owned and I've had 1 Honda, 2 Suzuki's, 2 Yamahas and 4 Triumphs over the years. No stupid oily chain to deal with and character galore. MCN have got it wrong on this one.

Real bike, sporty and comfy in one package. Suspension is excellent, especially on twisty roads. Has torque enough to challenge japan made plastic risepots. Sound is only poor thing. I've have ridden silver one this summer, with great pleasure.

Real bike, sporty and comfy in one package. Suspension is excellent, especially on twisty roads. Has torque enough to challenge japan made plastic risepots. Sound is only poor thing. I've have ridden silver one this summer, with great pleasure.

BMW are attemping to lure owners away from the boring and somewhat overcrowded Japanese inline 4 market by offering a "Real World" sportsbike with the proven reliability of the most powerful (122hp) boxer engine they have ever made. The looks certainly aren't in Ducati 996 territory, but it's without a doubt the most beautiful twin they have made, especially in plain black. I would recommend the alt drive option and the "sports" back wheel (190 from standard 180). Ohlins shock doesnt really make much difference on the road and is a rather expensive option. Vibrations are noticeable however I found after fitting a full remus system it not only improved the look of the back end, but helped the engine to rev more freely - all backed up by a thumping note. Highly recommended if you want a performance bike with ample torque and the charm of a twin. 0-100 it will keep up with most bikes out there. Strengths: Lightweight, well balanced bike with a somewhat "classic ducati" look in many regards. Without a doubt the prettiest "boxer" BMW especially in the gorgeous black paint they offer. Engine has plenty of torque and revs better than a standard boxer BMW. Fast bike from 0-100. Weaknesses: The standard version without the alternative drive has a tall first gear making fast take offs a little more difficult than they should be. Standard exhaust system is ugly and muted, a remus system is recommended. Also there is no real need for the lack of fuel gauge on the bike. Vibrations are noticeable over 5k revs.

Saw the picture early in the year and fell in love immediately. Ordered it just from the photos and was not disappointed. It's still early days, and have just had the first service so not yet fully used its potential (probably never will!), but the power is very usable, and performance and handling gives lots of confidence. Strengths: In the flesh the looks are fantastic, I love the rear end. The handling inspires lots of confidence with loads of usalble power. Weaknesses: Some people will not like the look of the old style boxer twin engine, and if you are after something for track days, there are more focused performance machines out their, otherwise for a usable real world sports bike it's fantastic!