No argument from me on the benefit of having a cover. I especially like the half cover for the RT because I can put it on while the engine is still hot and not worry about scorching the fabric. I don't remember how much I paid for it but I'm sure it wasn't cheap. However since I bought it at the same time as the bike, it all rolled up into the total purchase price of the RT. I didn't know Walmart sells motorcycle covers but hey, if it works and it only costs that much, I consider that a win-win. 👍🏻

I always use a cover, especially then travelling. It's a great theft deterrent because your bike just becomes totally unnoticed on the street.

Thanks for your comment and suggestion. I'll have to do some research and look into that. Always good to have options. Some don't like listening to music / radio while riding. I'm one of those that do. Besides, this bike is made to tour and to do it in comfort and style. For me this means passing time during boring parts of a drive with music, whether its through the bikes speakers or through my paired earphones in transparent mode. The RT was love at first sight and the more I ride it, the more I love it. Have a great day. Cheers 🥂/🍻

Thanks for the kind words and the great comment BS. What's that saying? 'Great Minds think alike'? It appears we do have similar ideas and tastes.😊 Top Case - When I first saw this used on an RT (prior to my purchase of the RT) I was very impressed by how much more noticeable the bike was from the rear when brakes were applied. I knew then and there I needed/ wanted it for my bike. Radio - I purchased my bike from the showroom floor and it came equipped with the factory radio. I don't use it much in town (mainly not wanting to distract other drivers - I want them paying attention) but I think that on long rides where I'm traveling down straight as an arrow roads with no interesting scenery, I'll probably turn it on to make time past by quicker but I fully understand your alternative. I also have a quiet Shoei Neotec helmet and I can see that it would make listening to the radio very immersive. Keyless Ride - I did not know that. Good information, thanks. Again, keyless ignition came with the bike so I had no choice but this is good to keep in mind. However, my dealer had absolutely no concerns that the RT was a bike that thieves would find desirable to steal but I haven't seen an statistics or know that to be a fact. Crash Bars - Yes, I totally agree. It does not hinder the servicing of the engine and that was certainly one of the reasons for buying it. Unfortunately, I've already tested it in the garage and it works beautifully to protect the engine. 😟 HexEZCan - THIS is one of the last remaining options I'm considering on buying. I like how they integrate with the bikes existing controls. And I believe you can also tie them in with the Denali horns which is another benefit. However, the purchase of another computer is in my immediate plans so this may have to wait awhile. Best Touring Bike - 100% in agreement. I also considered the GS Adventure and the K1600 but in the end, the combination of relatively light weight, comfort and convenience, impeccable handling and all the power I need was why I chose the RT and don't have any regrets. Thanks again for the comment BS. Cheers. 🥂

Thieves in the US might had learned that tool already. Good to know. That one is sufficiently scary reason not to buy a 2 wheel vehicle for the price (equivalent) of a Ferrari

@@Tax2Me They are not the equivalent price of a Ferrari but I agree with you Tax2Me, they are on the very high end of costly motorcycles for purchase. You could buy a car for what this costs. However, then you would not have the reason most of us buy motorcycles in the first place, which is another discussion. If a thief wants your motorcycle, they will get it regardless of what anti-theft measures or anti-theft equipment you put on the bike. Statistically though, I think that sport bikes would be more desirable for thieves to steal than an touring bike. Not that this is any comfort but that's why we purchase insurance. Good discussion. Thanks for stopping at the Stopsign Tax2Me. Cheers. 🥂

I had mine with the audio pack, yes its expensive but it makes such a difference on long journeys, I got the topcase from ebay, for half price, ordered the new lock barrel from BMW so it works with central locking. The Neotec 2 is a great helmet with the SRL, its just a bit noisy on other bikes though.

@@juddhadley1145 Hey thanks again JH for leaving a comment. I TOTALLY agree with you. I've heard some people say they absolutely don't understand the need for an audio pack but I must say, it helps the miles go by quicker and makes the trip more enjoyable. Especially at rest stops where I will sit back on the bike and turn the audio on to relax. Topcase - Great way to go. Cheaper and still works with the central locking. Nice. In my case, I wanted the integrated brake light assembly in the topcase also so although this was a costly option, I decided to go with what BMW provided. Neotec - I haven't incorporated any communication system on my helmet yet but I might do that in the future and hopefully the speakers will minimize road and engine noise. Other than that, I'm happy with the first generation Neotec but would be happier with the latest version which I understand is quieter. Cheers. 🥂

Hi Tax2Me, Thanks for the comment and watching the video. The BMW R1200RT comes with the side cases as standard equipment from the factory. The cost of the side cases are already factored into the price of the base motorcycle. The top case however, is an extra cost option and very pricey. Now, the engine protection bars on this bike are extra cost options. If you buy the GS Adventure however, the engine protection bars are standard equipment. Truth be told, if you buy anything from BMW you can expect to pay $$$. But, the products are usually high quality. Thanks again for leaving a comment and watching. Cheers. 🥂

Hi.The protection bars are extra but the RT comes with side cases as standard.

Thanks for the comment and watching the video Paul. If you have the same bike .....you have good taste. 😃 Fog lights are something I'm still considering adding them in the future, as well as louder horns. Unfortunately, other things keep pulling money out of pocket instead. As for the Service Manual, I purchased it at the same time that I bought the bike. I got it directly from the BMW Dealers Parts Department. That was back in 2018 though. They may have discontinued them for exactly the reason you mentioned. You'd think they make enough money from selling and servicing our bikes. As a suggestion, you might try looking for a hardcopy book from one of the publishers of motorcycle repair manuals. I haven't checked on this myself but it might be worth a try. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful. Again, thanks for watching. Ride safe. Cheers. 🥂

@@STOPsignforRT Thanks for your reply. Just curious- which country are you in? I'm wondering if the policy is different by country. If I ever do buy another BMW, I'll make a service manual a contingency. I've even written to BMW USA and gotten the same response. It begs the question- if the service manual isn't available, how does the BWM dealer shop know what torque to use on any particular bolt? Or any other random piece of relevant info, such as fluid capacity, etc. If you're in another country besides the US, I might redirect my search to a dealer near you.

@@paulwelch1702 I'm located in the U.S. I found it odd that BMW has stopped providing a service manual. I'm sure the Service Dept. of a BMW Dealership has access to factory service information. As you said, how else would they be able to work on our bikes? It is baffling and the only reason that I can think of is what you mentioned previously. They want us to take our bikes back to them instead of working on it ourselves. Maybe writing to BMW in Germany will produce a better response? Might be worth a shot.

@@STOPsignforRT I will try that. My daughter is currently touring Europe, including UK and Germany, so I'll ask her to stop in a BMW dealership if she has time. I'm hoping to be in Germany later this year as well. I've tried to set up a tour of the BMW m/c factory in the past, but they happened to be closed during the time I was there. Cheers- Paul

@@paulwelch1702 You're lucky your family is involved in motorcycling too. Your daughters trip sounds fantastic. I've heard the roads there are great for motorcycle touring. And I envy that you'll be going to Germany as well. Best of luck in getting that BMW factory tour set up and finding that elusive Repair Manual. Ride safe while you're there. 🏍

Thanks for watching and the comment JH. Yes, I considered the optional BMW foglight but decided against it due to cost. I knew I could add these on later on my own at lower cost. However, I still haven't decided on going forward with the purchase. It is however on my short list of potential optional equipment to add to the bike. Cheers. 🥂

Hi Judd,sorry for the late reply,needed to check UK laws regarding the rear fog light question.,It's illegal to fit these lights to a motorcycle here in the UK.Reading between the lines,it seems the objection is to do with the fact that rear fog light intensity,would match or exceed the brightness of the brake light so thus,would be dangerous. Not often that I agree with UK traffic laws but in this case,I think,on safety grounds,it does make sense.

Hi brian, I did enquire about the rear fog light just last week at the dealer. Its on the parts diagram for the RT but they didn't know any more about it, ie where it fitted etc. I can see your point on the brightness issue. TBH the rear led brake light on my top box is probably just as bright anyway.

@@juddhadley1145.Yes Judd,I'm now not even considering fitting rear fog lights,as you say.the LED brake light in the top case is bright enough. Ride Safe my friend.

Richard Hull You’re welcome RH. Glad you enjoyed it and THANKS for stopping at the STOPsign. Cheers. 🥂

Thank you for the tip PA. You're 'exactly' right! - You're never too old to learn something but... you can be too old not to know something that's staring you in the face. 🤗 Thanks for stopping at the Stopsign and leaving a comment. Cheers. 🥂

PVA, FYI - I added a video correction in the description of the video to let everyone know about closing the light in the top case by closing the latch. Thanks again for your comment. Much appreciated!

One of my favorite things is learning about a "feature" a few years after owning a vehicle. :) I will use this! It's perfect for after picking up take-away Chinese food when the bike is locked in the garage to let the luggage box air out without draining the battery. Thanks!

I purchased the half cover directly from the BMW dealer where I bought my bike. The cover is made by BMW. The only con I have about the cover is that the letters 'BMW' is stenciled on the back which might tip off thieves who are specifically looking to steal a BMW bike. Other than that, I have no other complaints about it. Thanks for the comment.

Thanks for your prompt reply.

LTVoyager Thanks for the informational tip! When I purchased the cover, I didn’t know BMW was going to be stenciled on the back. I prefer not to advertise what kind of bike is under the cover. And I always welcome advice or suggestions from anyone that might benefit viewers on this channel. Thanks again LTVoyager. Cheers. 🥂

STOPsign You are welcome. I just bought my second EZ Touring Traveller cover. I can’t find proof of purchase to be 100% sure, but I believe my first cover was bought in 1988 when I took my first long tour on a Kawasaki Voyager XII. I now ride a K1200LT and since the X size cover fit it also, I didn’t have to buy a new one. It finally started to leak a little water the last couple of years and when we washed it after our recent 3,400 mile trip, the coating started to flake off the fabric. I guess after 30+ years of at least a couple weeks of on the road use each year, it doesn’t owe me an anything. That cover has been to Newfoundland, Alaska, all around the US and most recently to the Florida Keys. A very good cover at a good price and the parachute fabric they use packs very compactly compared to the covers made of a more canvas-like material.

@@LTVoyager Wow, those covers are durable to say the least. I'd say you got your moneys worth and then some. Some question the need for a cover but my reasoning for owning one is that I like to keep my bike immaculate or as clean as possible. You could call that obsessive compulsive but it bothers me when the bike is dirty so a cover really helps in that effort. And with a half cover, I don't ever worry about covering the bike when the engine is still hot. Yes, it doesn't provide full bike coverage but its protected enough until its parked in the garage again. Ride safe and enjoy your sweet ride - K1200LT. Cheers. 🥂

STOPsign I am fortunate to have a garage for my motorcycles when at home, but when traveling, I use a cover for the reason you mention and one more: I often leave my GPS on the bike or my gloves on the seat and when passersby can’t see such things, they are much less likely to mess with the bike. At least that has been my experience. Also, keeping the UV off the paint and plastic and keeping rain off the seat is nice when you go out to ride the next morning.

@@LTVoyager Couldn't agree more. The phrases, 'Out of Sight - Out of Mind' and 'Keeping Honest People Honest' are applicable on the use of Covers. Of course, that's primarily for theft purposes. Not that our bikes (RT and LT) are high on the list of stolen bikes (according to my BMW Sales person) as compared to pocket rocket type performance bikes that draw the most attention. But on the practical side, it just protects our prized possessions and ensures they will still look as good 10 years from now as they do today. Ever just go out in the garage and admire the bike? Full Disclosure - I do. And I want to continue to do that for a long time. 😁

I don't think so either. 😁 And yes, you'll pay for the privilege of putting that Garmin GPS in the place they provided. 🤦‍ However, Wunderlich has options for those that don't want to pay for that expensive GPS on the glareshield panel. i believe you can buy a replacement handlebar end retaining bolt and that will provide some options for mounting accessories of your liking, including GPS units. These are also not inexpensive items but at least that does not force you into buying their designed component. Cheers. 🥂/🍻

Thanks GL. That's good information. I'll have to look into it at Wunderlich. As you probably know though, they are moving their operations to the East Coast so we are not currently able to order anything until the first part of December. But I'm definitely going to check it out. I agree with you about not purchasing the Nav 6. I don't think there were huge changes from 5 to 6. At least not to the point of spending $1000 for it. I got it simultaneous with my new bike along with other accessories so it all rolled into the final purchase price. On the Crash Guards: The 'Engine' crash bars were purchased from Wunderlich. The 'Side Case/Panniers' crash bars were purchased from ilium Works. I tried to pick the crash bars that were the least noticeable so as not to take away from the basic style and design of the bike. In my Part 2 of 2 video, I go over my experience with the installation of the bars. When I first bought the bike, I installed engine valve cover guards on the bike because they blended in with the engine nicely. However, I had an accident in the garage and the bike tipped on its side. The guard did a good job of protection with no damage to the engine but I thought after that incident that a full set of engine / side case protection was probably a good idea to prevent high cost damage if it every happened again. The bars are not cheap but I consider them good insurance against even higher costs to repair damage to the engine or side case. Good luck on your decision.

STOPsign Wunderlich are moving to my home ground 😊

Hi Dan. Thanks for the comment / question. The running lights on my bike do not blink. They are the factory original lights. I think the blinking you see is caused by the frame rate of the camera I filmed with. If the frame rate you select for your recording is similar to the frequency of the lights, it appears as though the lights are blinking when in reality they are not. I'm not an expert in photography but I think that is the explanation for what you're seeing. As for whether or not the stock lights can be modified to blink, I recall seeing some accessory lighting kits that could enable this feature in the past but I haven't seen anything like that lately. But I'd be interested to know the answer to this myself. Hope this answers your question. Again, thanks for the question. Cheers.

@@STOPsignforRT Thanks for replying so quickly. I later saw someone else's video and their lights were blinking and he said it was the camera frame rate. It would be nice to be able to do it, great for creating attention at intersections. Thanks for sharing the toys on your RT.

@@danhampson1286 You’re welcome. I agree with you. The more visible we are, the safer we are. Ride safe. Cheers 🥂

Hi ROW, Sorry for the late response but thanks for the question. The directions following are based on an RT that is fully factory equipped with all the factory options except for things like the top case, auxiliary lights, crash bars, etc. To show MPH in your display window you will need to operate the 'Menu' toggle switch on the left handlebar and the 'Wonder Wheel' or Multi-Controller wheel. With power on the bike... Press the Menu switch until you get to the 'Settings' Menu > Scroll down to 'User' and select it > Scroll down again to 'Background' and select it > Scroll down and select 'Speedo' Indicator for the digital speedometer. Digital speed should now display. Note- If you turn on your radio, the digital speedometer readout will be replaced by the radio information. Let me know if you have any further questions. Hope this helps. Cheers. 🥂

@@STOPsignforRT Thanks much! I'm try that tomorrow and give you a report, thanks again...

Thanks for the compliment and thank you for your question. I am the same height as you. I like to think I'm 5' 8" on a good day but I'd be lying. 😁 With the BMW low seat and the forward seat mount in the L or Low position and the ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) set for just one rider, I can touch the ground with the balls of my feet but not fully flat foot my feet on the ground. This is enough for me to feel secure on the bike. That's with wearing my current motorcycle boots which have a thin sole on it. I'll be buying another motorcycle boot in the future and that one will have a thicker sole on it which should help with flat footing while the bike is stationary. If you have concerns about this and you're considering the purchase of this bike, I would suggest going to a BMW dealer and sitting on a RT set up with the low seat option and the mount set to the low position and see how secure you feel. If you don't feel safe and secure sitting in the saddle, I would recommend not buying the bike because that feeling goes a long way towards whether or not you will have a good experience owning this motorcycle. I hope this answers your question. Cheers. 🥂

@@STOPsignforRT thanks a lot for your answer, I will keep it in mind!!

@@guszam1036 You're very welcome and thanks for watching!

DL, Thanks for the comment and question. Bottom line is that I preferred the looks of the Wunderlich engine crash bars over the Ilium Works engine crash bars. So, I based my purchases purely on looks. In addition, I picked the Ilium Works side case bars because they are lower profile and don't stick up high like the Wunderlich product where it might interfere with a passengers legs. Both companies make very robust / sturdy crash bars that would save the bike and the rider in a crash or tip-over. In my opinion, they are comparable so the choice boils down to what I preferred from an aesthetic viewpoint. I hope this answers your question. If you need further clarification or have other questions, please feel free to ask. Cheers. 🥂

@@STOPsignforRT Thanks for your reviews and your additional comments/replies. I'm considering highway pegs and like the ones that Ilium have. I didn't see pegs on your bike. Have you used pegs? If so, please comment.

@@davidlouie6944 Hey DL, I have not used highway pegs ....yet. On a longer ride, I do get a little cramping in my legs so I have been thinking about highway pegs but I need to do a little more research on this first and also find out where I would mount them. I'll need to look into the Ilium Works model. BTW - I did buy a Hawk AirCruiser inflatable seat for longer rides. FYI - I'll be doing a future video on some new accessories I bought for the bike so stay tuned. Cheers. 🥂

@@STOPsignforRT I was considering the Ilium pegs as well. For positioning, put your bike on center stand, put buckets or something on each side, put your feet up to see if you'd even like the general positioning. I'll look for your air hawk review, that's another accessory I'd I'd consider. Thanks!

@@davidlouie6944 👍👍

Thank you for the comment. There are 4 videos on my channel that have no text or voice narration. Feel free to watch those at your convenience as there is no talking or text in those videos. Cheers. 🥂