Hi from a new guy - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

tabing · 05-29-2008, 10:00 PM

Hi there,

First post and plan to be around for a long time.

Working in the muddle east now, but returning in July to AZ to a semi-retired status.

Have taken the basic motorcycle safety riders course, and would take the next level when I have a year or so of new experience. Former bikes were a 250 Benelli, and a 650 Enfield Interceptor, (I'm old).

Drooling over a new R12R, but since I haven't ridden in a while, thinking of something less expensive to get my skills up a bit. Thought about a used Japanese bike under 5 grand, then saw this ad:

2004 BMW R 1150 R, Black, 5.2k miles, touring windshield, Moto driving lights using Autoswitch, extra power socket, locking oil filler cap, BMW extra large bags, cylinder head guards, throttle friction lock, heated grips, Harley foot pegs, handle bar height adjuster by Wunderlich, lift assist handle, oil cooler screen guards, lots of Wunderlich accessories, modulated head and tail lights, dealer serviced, new tires, brakes, fluids at 3.6k miles. Price is $7,995.00,

What do you think? Go rice burner for a while and get a new 1200 next year,
or go with something like this? I've been told there are lots of 1150s on the market as people have traded up, due to improved balanced engine, and smoothe transmission. Horse power is not a big issue, (though I'm 250 pounds). Any 500-650cc would move me as fast as I need to go.

My use is a 40 mile round trip a few days a week to town. I live in a VERY rural part of the White Mountains of Arizona, elevation 6500 to 8000 ft at my house. All 65mph country road, little traffic, one traffic light in a hundred mile radius. I'd say it's bkiing paradise.

Your thoughts please.

Oh yeah, thank your higher power that you llive in the USA!

There's no place else as good in the world, and say a prayer for the grunts slogging it out in 120* weather hellhole trying to make a difference to people

who don't deserve it.

(apologies for the political rant).