1996 bmw reviews

I bought my RT with 32,000 miles on it, about 10 months ago. I now have 41,000 on her. This is, by far, the best all-around motorcycle I have ever owned. I've been street riding for 29 years and have owned many Jap street bikes. None compare to this Beemer. This is my second BMW. If you can have only one bike at a time - this is the one to have. It handles as well or better than a sport bike, is super comfortable for 600 mile days, can carry 450 lbs of load without breaking a sweat, can go 250+ miles between fuel stops, is not bothered by rain, keeps your hands warm in the cold, and doesn't bake you in the heat. No other bike can do all these things as well as the RT. It is as comfortable going out for a gallon of milk as it is taking off two-up to Canada (believe me, I know). I've had no trouble with this bike, but it has allowed me to tinker if I want to. I do all my own maintenance and find it easy to work on with sensible access to maintenance stuff. Changing the rear tire on this bike is a real treat. I'd buy another used Rt in a second, regardless of mileage; these are quality machines. Show less

This is my first motorcycle and it has been a wonderful experience thus far. I fell in love with its naked looks when I was searching for a bike on-line and was lucky enough to find a '97 R850R Special Edition used with only 4500 miles on it. It's got the accessory plug, windshield, the optional tach & clock and saddle bags. When I was looking to purchase a bike, I did not want to spend money on two motorcycles - a beginners bike and then something I would want to ride after I learned how to. This suited my needs perfectly. My skills have improved and I have yet to come close to uncorking the potential of the machine which is reassuring since I still have a lot of payments left on it:)! It has wonderful mid-range torque, though not much off the line. 2nd and 3rd gears have gotten me out of a lot of trouble on at least 2 occasions. It is nice and steady up to about 75mph, where it starts to vibrate a little - beyond that, I would not know. That said, the negatives: 1. The saddle. More than 1 hour in it and the hot spots start. 2. For experienced riders, the side stand cut off can be a bit patronizing, but it is great for beginner riders. 3. I am, unfortunately, inclined to agree with the reviewer who had a problem with BMW NA. That, however, is not a review of the motorcycle, but of the corporation. Yes, they offer sub-par service for beautifully designed machines which are overpriced. Do yourself a favor and find a really good mechanic who specializes in European bikes and simply avoid using BMW for regular service, i.e. fluid changes/tires etc. You will not find an R850R still under warranty, so there are no issues in voiding one. I have a nightmare story about my dealings with the motorcycle service center at Manhattan BMW. Please don't let that stop you, though. BMW makes wonderfully reliable bikes which are designed to be ridden for years and tour for serious miles. I plan to ride mine for a long, long time. I absolutely love it! Show less

I purchased a 97 R850R five years ago. It has been the most reliable, dependable, and forgiving bike I have ever owned. It is sporty enough to make it fun to ride, and comfortable enough to make it fun to ride for long stretches. Additionally, the great side cases make it an exceptional tourer, and the high rear foot pegs allow my children to ride along safely. It's big enough to track smooth past big trucks on the freeway, yet small enough as to not make it seem like a burden to get it out just for a short sprint to the corner store. I would suggest this bike to anyone who wants a very dependable and versatile motorcycle, and who also appreciates the quality and finish of BMW. Show less

I bought this bike in June last year, basically new, 42 miles on the odometer and still BMW break-in oil (It's a long story). The bike has now 8K miles. I've never owned a bike half as good at everything as this one. It's not as fast as a Japanese race replica, but from 0 to 90, I don't think it would stay too far back. It handles awesome and it's getting better every day. It is consuming a little oil, but that is also getting better. Somebody mentioned uneven tire wear at front. that's true. Blame it on the telelever. On the other hand, 40psi of pressure helps and the telelever must be the best bike suspension architecture around. Awesome bike!!! I'll never change it unless it is for another RT!!! Show less

I've had at least 15 different motorcycles over the yrs. This bike purchased new know has 58,000 kms on it. Front tire wear tends to be uneven, however I found increasing tire pressure significantly helps even it out. Had the digital clock replaced as it lost time while parked. Speakers are terrible, they need to go bigger then the current 4" size. In Canada at least bikes can be ordered without the stereo system. The stock seat isn't as accomodating as the rest of the bike on a 6-8 hr ride. Gearing is excellent, likes to cruise at 60-80mph all day long. I really enjoy this bike, unlike the harley I owned I can depend on it too!!!!!!! Show less

I purchased my R850R new in 1996 and rode it relatively trouble free (some electrical had to be re-wired) for two years, putting 35,000 miles on it. I loved the bike. Unfortunately the cam chain guard cracked and the bike started leaking oil like crazy. I ended up in a nightmare battle with BMW who did nothing for 1 and 1/2 months! I finally called BMW finance and told them to pick up their broken bike. Too bad, it was a great bike. BMW was happy to take my payments - but dragged their feet when it came to warranty issues. Even after calling them every day. Buyer, beware! Show less

I have had this bike since new. It currently has in excess of 36,000 miles. It is like am old, trusted friend. I have had a few problems but the dealer handled them, and I am a very happy owner, so happy I purchased another BMW bike. The only way I will trade bikes is if BMW makes the new RT even better when it arrives some time next year. GREAT JOB BMW Show less

Have owned the bike since new. It is still simply the best sport tourer around. You might find some faster but you won't find a better all round bike that can tour and handle. Not your luxo-barge like the Goldwing or K1200LT. Show less

I bought a R850R new in 1996. I have almost 20,000 trouble free miles on this bike. I have added a fairing/windshield, Givi luggage and hand guards. This set-up gives me a very capable touring machine for thousands less than a fully equipped BMW. Service is less money due to lower labor time (no body panels etc. to take on and off. Routine service (fluid changes, etc.) can be done by any backyard mechanic. I have taken trips of over 2,000 miles with days as long as 800 miles and the bike performs extremely well. It is so smooth that fatigue is not an issue. Power is more than adequate, even two up and loaded with luggage. Insurance is more affordable due to the less than 1,000 cc engine. This model was only imported in 1996 and 1997. If you are in the market for an affordable, reliable, fun used bike, consider the BMW R850R. Show less