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One Year Ownership Report - '08 1200 Sport
willowstreetguzziguy:
MISSION: I wanted a motorcycle with the same character and charisma as my 1975 BMW R90S. I gave it up in 1986 after 9 years of ownership for a new K75C because too many things were going wrong with it. Never forgot that bike. Currently own a pristine 1993 BMW K75S.
SEARCH: Boxer engine BMW’s after 1976 never felt as good as the R90S. Moto Guzzi met the engine criteria. So after a test ride on a new V7 & Griso and a 2007 Norge, I realized that the V twin engine was fantastic but the riding position and appearance were not quite right. Searching Moto Guzzis from the year 2000 on, I discovered the 2008 1200 Sport.
·Only imported in 2008
·Bikini Fairing
·Tubular handlebars
·White gauges
·Alloy silver engine & drive train
·Wave front disc brakes
·Rear seat cowling
FOUND: In November 2013, in Oklahoma, 1-owner, 3,800 miles, mint. I took a grueling 3-day bus ride to OK and enjoyed a 1,400 mile ride back to PA in temps in low-mid 50's.
OBSERVATIONS: It was everything I wanted and more. On the ride home, I quickly named it the “BULL TRAIN” because the engine & torque reminds me of a Bull under 60 mph and on the interstate, it’s a Freight Train!
CHANGES I'VE MADE:
· 1.5” LOWERED FOOT PEGS – A wildguzzi member offered me new 1.5” lowered footpegs
at a great price
· ADDED 1” of FOAM to the SEAT – A wildguzzi member gave me the idea to raise the seat height 1”
with foam. The 2.5” of increased leg space makes a world of difference!!!
· MODIFIED SIDESTAND, BRAKE FOOT LEVER & SHIFT LEVER – to accept lowered foot pegs
· BUNGIE CRUISE CONTROL – Relief for my wrist
· LAMINAR LIP & STELVIO HAND GUARDS- For cold weather riding
· CORTECH TANK BAG – For carrying stuff
LIKES
Engine - low end torque & power, clean metal appearance, keeps shins warm below 75 degrees
Exhaust sound
Throttle response
Riding Position
2-valve engine characteristics
Tank Wings – keeps knees and thighs warm below 75 degrees
Instrument information center– temp, mpg, time of day, riding time, etc.
Handlebars – yes I like them!
Wind protection with bikini fairing & tank wings
High speed stability – gusts of wind don’t blow it around
Wild Guzzi forum members
Fuel injection - Lack of cold bloodedness – Can get going as soon as start up
6 Gallon fuel capacity
Braking power
DISLIKES
Headlight beam pattern (high and low) is terrible
Horn is pathetic
Lack of helmet lock, gear indicator, self canceling turn signals, center stand are missed
Plastic fuel tank
Engine oil dipstick location
Exhaust popping under deceleration
Seat not hinged
Small dealer network
After 1 year and 5,400 enjoyable miles ridden, I’m thrilled with the bike and the wildguzzi forum members! Thanks for passing along so much interesting and valuable information. Her's to warm weather!!!
Doppelgaenger:
Nice report.
I just picked up a Breva 1100, I wanted to get a sport but it was just too much money. They're going to make collector bikes some day so keep it looking nice!
Kev m:
Didn't you get the helmet lock? On my B11 there was a post under the seat and a small cord with two metal rings on each end. You loop the cord through your helmet strap, placing the rings over the post, then pop the seat back on.
At least that's the theory, I never used it, never even took the cord out of the plastic bag.
I funny think Jay has either.
Kiwi_Roy:
Change out the Horns for a pair of cheap plastic FIAMMs, about $30/pair with a relay
http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-horns/fiamm-freeway-blaster/
Mount them so they are self draining, don't ask me how I know.
Exhaust popping can be stopped by setting the mixture a little richer at closed throttle.
Kev m:
--- Quote from: Kiwi_Roy on December 19, 2014, 05:03:41 AM ---
Exhaust popping can be stopped by setting the mixture a little richer at closed throttle.
--- End quote ---
Not so sure about that in this case.
I thought the popping on these was related to not shutting down injectors on closed throttle, i.e. already rich.
Not to mention the Guzzitech reflash did nothing to reduce that on my B11, and I'd have expected it to if it was an easy fix.
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