Faults:

ABS rear modulator failure.

General Comments:

This is my second BMW K100 LT during the past ten years.

I have travelled to Switzerland from Berkshire in one day covering 660 miles in total comfort. These bikes are very reliable, easy to maintain and all parts are readily available. The fairing keeps you insulated from the weather, but legs will get hot during the hottest summer days, so wearing protective summer pants is effective.

The motor gives buzzes slightly at around 3200 to 3800, which equates to 50 mph, but is part of the character. At the all important road speeds, she is very smooth on the handlebars providing the throttle bodies are properly balanced.

The 5th gear roll on acceleration from 50 mph is both impressive.

Brakes are adequate though most owners will replace master cylinders and hoses due to age rather than mileage. Due to excellent low speed fueling, the bike is wonderful around town, coupled with a nice clutch and gearbox action.

Periodical lubrication on clutch actuating parts keeps things nice and light.

The bike is no lightweight, but sits on the road very nicely.

With BT 045 tyres back and front and a decent rear shock absorber, the K100 LT can be hustled along at speed with confidence.

The headlights are excellent, as are the twin horns. Indicator controls are unique to BMW, but you get used to them.

I manage around 48MPG at motorway speeds, and the engine uses very little oil with the correct viscosity.

If you need a bike for long distances, one which keeps the weather off you and allows you to arrive feeling relaxed, then perhaps you might consider one of these. They may not be totally modern in terms of design or equipment, but they do a wonderful job.

Do I need a different bike, no.

Each to their own, but this bike does everything I need, and I love it.

Faults:

Hard to shift at times. Adjusting the clutch helped a little, but still have some problems - might be spline time.

General Comments:

The first big bike I have owned at around 600lb. Previous bike was a 480lb CB650. Took a little getting used to, but now I hardly notice it.

A very competent and predictable bike to ride. My only complaint would be that it seems too easy to lock the back brake due to the shaft drive.

Very brisk acceleration; can keep up with anything, even in the turns.

Easily pulls in a high gear from low speeds; third seems capable of 0-100mph; a great bike for living in traffic.

I am a little disappointed with the 48-50mpg on 87 gas; I thought I would get more.

Biggest problem is HEAT; riding in 100'F behind the fairing your legs cook. Taking the lower fairing off helps. Looking forward to fall/winter riding where the engine heat will be welcome.