Sprint st vs BMW GT

I'm looking at getting a new toy for Christmas, and it's down to a 04 K1200gt or an 07 ST. Any thoughts? I'm coming from a heavy cruiser background, and want something that can go miles, but weighs less than a HD pig.

[ruscook]

Go the Sprint. The BMW is an awesome motor but way too much power for normal spirited riding - ie. it's a bit extreme. The Sprint has over 125HP, all useable in all gears. Will hit 250kph if you're so inclined, will tour all day, will need a suspension upgrade for 2 up unless you're light, has a great linear power spread, will tackle the twisties with gusto and aplomb and close to sports bike prowess (well mainly depends on the rider here) and will likely be about 30% cheaper than a BeEm.

Just my 2c worth :-)

Russ

[steventhechef]

Hi beagle and welcome,

With the GT there is the initial cost over the ST but you would have the better resale value.

My main concern would be the huge expense at having to get colour co-ordinated textile gear and wet weather gear and helmet and boots and then turn around and buy them for the pillion too.

Also it means that you might have to hang out with BMW people - and I am sure that I wouldn't fit in there!!

:-D

[ This message was edited by: steventhechef on 2006-11-19 20:52 ]

[Yimm]

I get all the BMW numbers confused, but if it's the one I'm thinking of, (fully faired sport touring version with in-line 4 and big HP) you could buy 2 Sprints and all the extras for the same price.

I'm certain it's a great bike, but way too costly. Sort of like the difference between an $80,000 car and a $160,000 car. What is the quantifiable increase in real value for the extra money?

It must be there for some, because they do sell them. But I looked at it, listened to the pitch, and kept thinking: and that feature adds how much value to my riding experience?

Exhorbitantly priced for the pluses I saw. That's why I bought the Sprint. Outstanding all-rounder.

[CLB]

I don't really see these bikes as being that closely related. Have you ridden both?

Did you also post this in a BMW forum?
If not, in general expect:
Sprint forum ~ Buy the Sprint
BMW forum ~ Buy the BMW

CLB says...
Buy the BMW if you want to talk about it.
Buy the Sprint if you want to ride it.
Buy an FJR if you want attention to detail and reliability.

[GRN]

I test rode the K12GT for a day in '04 before I bought my ST1300... for the $$'s I wasn't impressed, there are a lot better riding bikes in that end of the ST segment for shorter $$'s up front and down the road. If you plan on eating some miles, and aren't proficient in significant maint., it will add up a good bit. That being said... they are VERY different bikes. My ST13 is a more nimble ride than the '04 KGT... and my '06 Sprint is A LOT more nimble than the ST13, enough so that I bought the Sprint to compliment my ST13, not replace it. JMO :-D

[Beach]

I very nearly bought the 1200 BM sports tourer (I get confused by their numbers as well) but baulked at the price.

The bike, luggage system and a few extras, had the tag heading north of $30,000 AUD. The fault with the black box on the ABS worried me as well, but I believe that has been quietly fixed now on new models.

The attitude of the sales people didnt impress me either. The mere suggestion of a non BMW accessory is tantamount to heresy and nearly had me frog marched off the premises.

I've since heard stories of people who dared suggest that their bike may need warranty work when a few things went wrong.

So, long story short, I ended up with a 05 ST. Having just spent four days riding for the Coffs rally confirmed I made the right choice. Sometime in the next year I will upgrade the suspension. It will be expensive, but with everything I've spent so far, I'm still well under the base price of the BMW.

Naturally, its horses for courses. The best piece of advice is to take both for a ride and decide what youre going to use it for etc.

Hope this helps.

Brett.

Ps - If you choose a BM, dont darken our door again.... kit: :lollol:

[DaveM]

beagle,
I reckon you have got yourself some interesting responses mate.

For me it's wot ruscook & steventhechef said I thought they summed it up quite well. And Beach too.

Davem

[bobw3592]

beagle, good question with great info from everyone, I'm looking for another bike for next season and learn a bunch here.

There are so many good related threads that it would be worth your time to use the search feature or just page back a few posts for more food for thought.

The Triumph ST is joined by 07 Tiger (waiting to see one) as being on my very short list. I ride with a group made up of BMW, FJR. Triumph S3 and my Triumph twin. All these guys are long time riders having owned multiple brands and enjoy touring, track and the twisties. The FJR guy said it reminds him of his old BMW K and loves it. BMW K S guy had a 955 Sprint, loves his BM, but misses his Triumph. Speed3 guy has new 06 w/1050 motor that is more civilized, but less Hooligan than his 955. etc.etc.

Pattern here is they all are great bikes with prices from $9K to well over $20K USD. Test ride is mandatory IMHO. Level of technology will not replace the basic machine that must fit you and your riding style/ergonomics. Triumph is much lighter, sportier and as reliable as anything else made. BMW has loyal following for a reason, but they are EXPENSIVE to buy and maintain and have had their own reliability/quirk issues being addressed/repaired. 04 BMW is out of warranty, so I would want a very detailed work history on her.

Good luck.

[nunzo]

FWIW--I traded my 2001 K1200RS on an 06 ST. Here are my seat of the pant impressions. The ST is way lighter than the K upwards of 125#. The K engine is a sweet motor with tons of torque and smooth power band delivery in most gears. Also, the K feels much better is long sweepers with bumps...i.e. better suspension upfront with the paralever vs. telescopic forks. I like the seating position, lightness and sound of the ST. I need more seat time on my ST to make a better comparison but overall I do not regret the ST. Prices should facotr in but since you are purchasing used make sure you have an extended warranty.

With respect to dealer service... so far, I am still waiting on my luggage from Triumph. My bike has been in the shop since last Sunday becuase Triumph sent two left luggage supports and no right bracket. Dealer mix Up, Don't know, byt the service folks at a BMW dealer wqill bend over backwards for you.