![Reply](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/buttons/reply.gif) |
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
15 Feb 2008
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: The Netherlands
Posts: 184
|
|
Early 1150 GS's Teething troubles??
Can anyone tell me if there are anything to look for with early (1999-2000 models) 1150gs's. I've looked around for a bit and see nothing bad about these years in particular. I know it's often the case that the first year or two of production there are inherent "teething troubles". Or are these bikes sound? After all there's not a lot of diference to the 1100gs?
I'm looking at buying a bike in the next 2-3 weeks and have noticed that after focusing on the 1100GS that an early 1150 would be in my price range. (just).
So i'm just thinking about the age old question of late model 1100 or a early model 1150?? I'm going to do alot of motorway miles so i figure the 6th gear would be handy....
Advice anyone...
__________________
'99 R1100GS - In a suitable shade of black
It's not that life is so short, It's just that we're dead for so long....
"The world is a book, those who do not travel read only one page." ~ Saint Augustin
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
15 Feb 2008
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: Estonia
Posts: 787
|
|
I'd rather opt for later 1100s than early 1150s.
Look around UKGSer.com - where I've noticed most of the 1100 owners prefer 5 gear box rather than 6 on 1150s after ridden each. Saying 5 geared box just "feels right" and makes it easier to ride. In fact the long 6th is a bit of an overkill - owners say you'll reach top speed in 5th on 1150 rather than 6th which is just long "underpowered" (overdrive) gear marked as "E" ("economy"), but ironically it's fuel savings are very minor compared to 5 geared 1100. Fuel consumption is nearly identical between 1150 and 1100 looking at the specs where BMW is very precise compared to jap makers for example. Also the top speed of 1100 is faster than 1150 while having 5 horsepower less - this says a bit about the gearing on 1150.
Some say 6th is nice for highway low-rpm engine cruising ("smooth-stressless" ride). I've done all day comfortible 150-160kph (100mph) on my 1100 where it silky-smoothly sings at low (for that speed!) 5000rpm range and with two up full of luggage it has enough additional power for taking over cars.
1st gear is longer on 1150 which makes shorter geared 1100 a bit more confident on offroad riding, but as a payoff 1150 tend to have a bit better in city riding (takes longer to kick into 2nd). 1100 is 6 kilograms lighter than 1150.
I'm guessing 1997-1999 R1100GSes are one of the most ironed out GSes out there juding how long it has been in production and how hard way they've learned in that period from airheads->oilheads transition (gearboxes on airheads and early 1100s, corroding wheels, etc). Also it's strange to see later 1150 rust (bolts and fork bridge seems to be the main concern on 1150 users) so much in the wet condition countries like the UK while much older 1100s basically stay mint in the same conditions.
Anyways, I'm maybe too biased too as a 1100 owner. I reckon they're both superb bikes, but judging from the history of BMW models, where early models tend to have some teething issues, then me as a bit paranoid person on taking 'unnecessary' risks I'd rather opt for later model from previous version - a later low miler 1100 (1997-1999, while 1998 and 1999 being the best of the bunch) and save the spare dosh for some tweaks on it (i.e. aftermarket suspension, alloy panniers etc mods).
OR, put some more dosh and 2002 and on 1150, so they've had at least 2 seasons of running to "fix" their teething probs. It's all about how much "risk" can you allow and how deep your pockets are, as always...
Wondering if I was helpful at all or I just got it all more confused...? Margus
Last edited by Margus; 15 Feb 2008 at 20:44.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
15 Feb 2008
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Tallinn, Estonia
Posts: 1,049
|
|
I had a 2002 1150 and I was very pleased with it. If you bought one, I think you would also be very satisfied and would not regret it.
That said, if you are buying for an overland trip (which is likely given the ethos of this site), if you found a late 1100, with lowish miles, I think you would be equally pleased and have some money to spare on the saving between the two models. I did have to spend quite a bit on TT parts and other bits, (eg frame engine mount "hard part" of the 1100 from T'Tech highly recommneded if going off-road) to get it trip ready, and the 2000€ you might save would go a long way here. Also the headlight on the 1150 is crap, and auxillaries are really recommended, whilst the large H4 on the 1100 is said to be pretty good.
Both are good: have a ride and see which you prefer.
Either way, I think you'll be happy. Happy shopping.
__________________
Adventure: it's an experience, not a style!
(so ride what you like, but ride it somewhere new!)
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
![Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.](/stuff/ripcord/ripcord-logo-250.jpg)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
![Five books by Graham Field!](/stuff/grahamfield/graham-field-2021-280.jpg)
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|