Oil recommendation (Sorry-newby needs help)

[George Ryals]

The vagueness of the manuals should tell you that the manufacturers aren't nearly as picky about oil as we are. If it is the correct viscosity(sp?)for conditions; it's ok with them.

[roc54]

Thank you, George...that makes a lot of sense.

I think I'm going to try the Rotella and see how it does. The nice thing is that if it doesn't work well, I can always change it. Seems to me that a nice HD oil might be a good selection for air-oil cooled engines...it's pretty resistant to break down.

Actually got out on the machine today...we have clear weather, dry roads and standing temp of about 60 degrees F. Aired up the tires, checked oil level (cold, per manual, is OK) and everything seemed go, so I went. I did a little short jaunt of about 30 miles and made some interesting observations...

-The transmission is significantly clunkier than the transmissions on my previous Japanese bikes. I knew this going in, so not particularly distressed by it. I tried shifting slowly and deliberately, but found when I did that, I got a bit of hesitation and torque effect, so then I tried shifting more quickly just as I pulled in the clutch. Shifted much smoother that way...was kind of surprised about that.

-Lots of buffetting from the windshield. It is, I believe, a BMW windshield, but it's not going to work well for me, because at freeway speeds, I felt like a bobblehead. Will have to hunt around for a better windshield, I think.

-Handles very nicely. The bike is not exactly small, but corners well and does not have to be muscled. Judging by the appearance of the RT-Ps most of the local gendarmes ride here, I was kind of figuring the bike would be pretty top heavy. Wrong. Not.

Meantime, once again, thanks to all for their wise input. I have a lot to learn and to digest...this is no Kawasaki and requires a new knowledge set...so I appreciate your info and your forebearance...

Bob

[Major Softie]

No problem. If you've learned anything valuable from this experience, hopefully it is the danger of starting an oil thread.

The 6-speed trannys are significantly more like the light-click Japanese trannys you're probably used to. I've ridden an R1200R: don't. It was the sweetest standard I've ever ridden. 50-60 lbs. lighter than yours, with a lot more power, a very sweet tranny, MUCH smoother, and way better injection. Everything about it was better than my very light, very quick, Ducati GT1000 . . . except, of course, for the sound . . . and the look.

[Steve in Golden]

Softie's right: test-riding an R1200R is hazardous to your finances! (stolen from another forum). Go ahead and ask me how I know.

I LOVE my R1200R.

[roc54]

I ended up having an annual/6k major service done on the bike...I do this with all used machines to establish a baseline for service. Picked it up from the dealer and prepared to ride it home, but it wouldn't go there. Forced me to take the long way home via the Capay Valley. First long run on this machine.

Absolutely a blast to ride. The gearbox continues to be clunky, but to me, that's just character. Bike handles superbly in the twisties and low-speed handling is a dream. Makes me look like a better rider than I am...

I'm sure you guys all know this stuff, but this is my first BMW and I'm seriously digging it!!

[Zombie Master]

Roc, the oil you were used to using would work fine. Synthetic is more expensive, but more heat resistant - this is especially important if you live somewhere hot, less so in a cool climate.

The wet-clutch issue is a non-issue for BMW boxers, as they have a dry clutch.

Not any more.New GS1200 has wet clutch. It's about time IMNSHO

[Major Softie]

Not any more.New GS1200 has wet clutch. It's about time IMNSHO

I did not know that. You'd think we would have felt a tremor in The Force.

[Zombie Master]

Not any more.New GS1200 has wet clutch. It's about time IMNSHO

I did not know that. You'd think we would have felt a tremor in The Force.

It's really a major redesign. A single drain for engine and transmission. I can feel it.

[Garnet]

Not any more.New GS1200 has wet clutch. It's about time IMNSHO

I did not know that. You'd think we would have felt a tremor in The Force.

It's really a Major redesign. A single drain for engine and transmission. I can feel it.

How could it be? He knew nothing of it.

[Zombie Master]

OK, now that we've got that straightened out, what are the best tires for Oilheads?

Black.