NGC...Curious about the '14-'17 BMW R1200RT

[LowRyter]

These bikes really peak my interest.  Cost of ownership remains a question mark.

Does anyone know how they stack for reliability? 

How much does routine maintenance cost? 

What maintenance can reasonably accomplished by the owner?

[Sheepdog]

With bikes like this I keep an eye on oil changes and take it in once a year. Cost would depend on what service was due. I expect it's a little more than my Vintage, but it does a little more...well different, anyway. Relative light weight, lotsa horsepower, 6.7 gallons of fuel, and all the comforts of home is a nice thing. It won't replace my Guzzi, but I expect it will deliver it's own thrills. I really like well executed twins...

[Chuck in Indiana]

What maintenance can reasonably accomplished by the owner?

Cleaning. 

[charlie b]

Back when I was looking at them I found a series of videos by an ex-beemer mechanic on each of the maintenance parts of the R1200's and R1100's.  It got into 90% of the stuff, like ignition, valves, clutches, rear drives, etc.  IIRC there was a tool you could use to 'reset' the computer after service.  I got the impression that you could do all the regular maintenance yourself.

The canbus is one of the tricky parts.  Adding electrical accessories is a little touchy, but, could be done.

Or, you could be like my brother.  Buy it new.  Trade it in when the warranty runs out.  Have all service done by BMW.  :)

[sturgeon]

Canbus is not an issue. It's as easy to add a fusebox, with relay if necessary, directly to the battery as it is on any motorcycle.