Looking for Reviews and Tips on the 2004 BMW R 1150 RT

Motorcycles
1

Introduction

I’m considering purchasing a 2004 BMW R 1150 RT and am looking for insights from those who own or have experience with this motorcycle. I’ve heard great things about its performance and touring capabilities, but I’d love to hear real-world experiences from fellow riders.

Performance

How does the bike handle at highway speeds? I’m particularly interested in its stability and comfort on long rides. Does it have enough power for two-up riding?

Specifications

I’m also trying to get a better understanding of the specifications. What are the standout features of the 2004 model? Any issues that I should be aware of that affect performance or maintenance?

Maintenance and Repairs

I’ve heard that maintenance can be a bit tricky with certain models. What’s the typical cost of service for the R 1150 RT? How often do you need to do major repairs? Any tips on reliability?

Parts Availability

For those who have owned the bike, how easy is it to find parts? Are there any specific parts known to wear out quicker than others? Any trusted sources for OEM or aftermarket parts?

Comparison with Similar Models

If you’ve ridden other touring bikes, how does the R 1150 RT stack up? I’m curious about comparisons with other models from the same year or similar styles. What are the pros and cons?

Conclusion

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts! Any advice on ownership or things to watch out for would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help!

3 Likes
2

I’ve owned a 2004 BMW R 1150 RT for a couple of years now and I can say the handling is superb. It feels very balanced, even at high speeds.

3

Absolutely! The engine responsiveness is impressive too. You can really feel the power when you need it, especially on long highway rides.

4

I agree with both of you! The comfort levels during long rides are phenomenal. I often do 300+ mile days and rarely feel fatigued.

5

Totally get that! It’s designed for touring, and it shows. The seat feels great!

6

The only downside I’ve noticed is the weight. At times it feels a bit heavy when navigating city traffic. But overall, it’s manageable.

7

Weight is a fair point. However, you get used to it. The stability it provides is worth it, especially on the open road!

6 Likes
8

Exactly! And the smooth ride quality is a huge plus for me on longer trips.

9

Has anyone felt that the brakes are less responsive compared to other bikes? I’ve seen mixed reviews on this.

10

I haven’t had any issues with the brakes. They feel solid to me. Maybe it depends on riding style and conditions?

11

That’s reassuring! I was curious if it was just a few bad experiences people had.

4 Likes
12

Even with its minor quirks, I think the R 1150 RT is a classic. The character of this bike is unmatched!

4 Likes
13

So true! It’s like riding a piece of art that’s also practical.

14

I might be a little biased since I own one, but nothing beats the satisfaction of long-distance riding on this beauty!

1 Like
15

What kind of fuel economy can I expect from the 2004 version? I’ve heard mixed reports.

16

I usually get around 40-45 mpg, depending on how I ride it. It can vary quite a bit with conditions.

8 Likes
17

Yeah, but can we all agree that the onboard electronics can be a bit of a headache? Not the most user-friendly setup.

18

I’ve owned a 2004 R 1150 RT for over five years now and can say that regular maintenance is key. The most common issues I’ve encountered are with the servo brakes. It’s essential to keep an eye on the brake fluid levels and address any warning lights immediately.

19

That’s good to know! Are there any specific preventative maintenance tips you’d recommend for brake upkeep?

20

Absolutely! Regularly flush the brake fluid every couple of years to prevent any buildup. I’ve also found that using OEM parts keeps everything running smoothly.