Niall's Spin: BMW R1200 ST
With a face that only a mother could love the BMW R1200ST held it's own in the sports tourer class, despite it's looks
Click to read: BMW R1200 ST owners reviews, BMW R1200 ST specs and to see the BMW R1200 ST image gallery.
Look up 'ugly' in the dictionary and you'll find a picture of the R1200 ST. The first time I saw one in the flesh I didn't want to look at it any longer than necessary. The aesthetics are the worst point about the bike, though; get on and ride and the R1200 ST is right up there with the best of the sports tourers.
What we have here is in essence the 1200 RT but with a different fairing, suspension tweaks and 24kg pared off. The ST is fantastic over distance; it's comfortable, endowed with great weather protection and has a massive range.
The only drawback is BMW's crap indicator switch arrangement. You could argue all day about it but BMW seems set in its ways and I don't think it'll be changing things on my say-so.
Handling is okay if a little heavy when you up the pace and start throwing it about, which isn't surprising considering how much weight you're carrying around. You really need to think ahead of the game and set yourself up nice and early for faster corners
The ST would be a serious contender if I was off on a long-haul trip, but I could never buy one - it's just too ugly. Looks aside, it's not perfect but the R1200 ST does the job well.
BMW R1200 ST Specifcations
Engine 1170cc, oil/air cooled boxer twin
Top speed 125mph
Power 110bhp @ 7,500rpm
Torque 84.8 ft/lbs @ 6,000rpm
Bore x stroke 101 x 73mm
Front suspension Telelever
Rear suspension Paralever
Front brake Single 320mm disc
Rear brake Single 265mm disc
Dry weight 205kg
Seat height 830mm
Fuel capacity 21 litres
