Iako R 1200 RT redovito pobjeđuje 1300 GT u usporednim testovima touring motora, pogodite koji je najbolji touring motor u USA 2009 godine.
Best Touring Motorcycle: BMW K1300GT
Riders can tour on anything from a superbike to a 50cc scooter, depending on their tastes, but for those looking to pile on the miles in comfort the OEMs have come up with some sweet purpose-built rides. When it comes time to make long-distance tracks our first inclination are the sport-tourers. And the best S-T ride this year was the 2009 BMW K1300GT.
Sport touring bikes are a tricky bunch. Combining sport performance with all-day comfort is a difficult task, but BMW has the master plan figured out with the K1300GT.Why is the BMW K1300GT Motorcycle USA’s touring motorcycle of the year? Well, it took the already strong platform of the K1200GT and added an extra 136cc displacement for a new 140 rear-wheel horsepower engine. The uber Beemer touring platform now holds its own against the previously matchless Kawasaki Concours in the motor department. It also managed to overtake the surefooted Yamaha FJR in handling, at least in our test rider’s minds. Stellar brakes and on-the-fly suspension adjustment from the ESA II complete on-road performance that could just as easily get your license suspended as transport you to and fro with reserved comfort and class. Speaking of which, the heated grips, heated seat and cruise control, along with the plenty of protection from the fairing and adjustable windscreen make long distance rides an enjoyable affair - and the spacious integrated saddlebags accommodate multiple days in the saddle.
The BMW K1300GT does everything well on the road, but its downside, and it’s not an insignificant one, is its $20K MSRP – actually $19,150 for the base ABS model, with far beyond the $20K marker once riders add on the options. In spite of its price, the BMW won our 2009 Sport-Touring Comparison handily.
Want specifics? Read the full 2009 S-T review, but for the short answer consider my actions on the final day of our ST excursion. Having to head home early for a family obligation, I had to leave at 5 a.m. with 400 grim miles of wind, rain and darkness ahead of me. As I looked over the available touring rides from our test, I packed up the Beemer and snuck out of the hotel parking lot like a thief in the night. – Bart Madson