2009 K1300GT Overview
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- čas přidán 11. 06. 2017
- This belongs to a fellow I ride with, and after doing a bit of work on the bike he agreed to allow me to keep it for a few days to do a video. This is a fast sporty bike. It reminds me a lot of my ZX-11 from the late 90's, smooth and fast, and with a light flywheel that spins up quickly.
This one has a high seat and 1" lowered pegs. I really notice the comfort of that combination-- it is so much easier on my knees. However, it reduces ground clearance in corners and the higher seating position reduces the effectiveness of the shield.
This one has been well maintained and it shows. That being said there have been a couple warrantee issues that are typical for the model.
These hold their value well, especially lower mileage examples. This one was involved in a bidding war when it was posted a national sales site, since the color is not common. And on the subject of color , there are many cool colours that have been issued over the years of the 12/13GT. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
This video is a pretty thorough review with plenty of good info, but for a very few minor but important mistakes. The front end of K1200GT/K1300GT (as well as K12R, K13R, K12S, K13S) is actually known as a Duolever, not as a Paralever, as the video maker states. The Duolever is also used on the K16 series. It is different in some vital ways from the original Telelever of R11/R1150 & R1200 design, because it uses a linkage and double wishbone to isolate the suspension and steering action rather than the simpler but equally effective Telelever which is analogous to a McPherson strut turned sideways. The Paralever, of course, is the final drive and swingarm, and this newer design is known as a Paralever Evo due to the 'hollow' cavity as compared to the earlier single-sided Paralever swingarm/final drives.
As for the clutch comment here, the clutch pack, if regular maintenance is performed on the fluid, and it isn't abused, will power along sufficiently for many kilometres. BMW made subtle changes over the years with the clutch slave cylinder and plate design (one plate is thinner and uses a spring damper/spacer for lighter feel in K13), release pushrod, lubing and oil drain off holes (it's a wet clutch, BMW's second after the early F650 singles, in reality an Italian design). But once the surfaces of the two 'pressure plates' begin to deteriorate then simply changing the clutch plates & steels for new (such as Barnett, & etc.) an entire clutch pack & basket has to be obtained from BMW for absolutely stupid money. I scour eBay and other places for sellers with not totally worn clutch assemblies and using the $30 clutch plate sets from China on eBay (which have to be modified because they manufacture all of the tabs at 14mm when one of them needs to be 13mm, an easy fix), and manage much additional mileage from them. There is a bloke from the UK who sells clutch packs that have been modified from stock that look the biz - search for him on Goob Chewb. The OEM clutch was weak in its basic design from go.
The engine has gobs of torque, is smooth until it nears redline when it becomes quite busy, the fairing design provides excellent wind and rain protection, and the ergos suit a variety of body types and lengths, though you must like your feet higher than the average touring bike, for which there are peg lowering kits available from the aftermarket. I manage between 42 when in give-it-some-stick-mode, and on up past 50 mpg (US gallon) when touring. The seat is the weakness. It is a Teutonic torture slab after an hour or two. I use a sheep skin cover and/or riding undies such as Motoskivees & LDComfort. Having owned two K1200R and a K1200S, I prefer the K13's power delivery. It makes more power but with less drama as it approaches 3/4 RPM level. Although BMW still have not fully managed to eliminate that niggling and often irritating low RPM surge when trolling in traffic. I added a Booster Plug to the airbox which helps a little bit. The Power Commander V I had on one of my K1200R (which also works on the K13) would have been the go but didn't I let it go on a whim.
These bikes are out there for under US$6K. Get one with lower mileage and make sure the clutch has been replaced or prepare to deal with that near the 50,000 to 60,000 mile mark, often earlier if the original owner was ham-fisted. Mine now has over 80K miles on it, crosses the continent or the local twisty mountain ranges with ease, and doesn't use more than a drop of oil in 5,000 miles. Thanks for reading.
Thank you for a great comment, I am sure you are aware of the timing chain issues so could you give us your perspective of the timing chain problems please.
When I was 19 I had the pleasure of riding a K1200GT from Dallas to South West Michigan. I was delivering the bike for my uncle. It was amazing. I still can’t believe my uncle let me do that trip on that bike.
The best bike I've ever ridden and owned. Quite frankly I can't understand why anyone would buy another bike. Bought mine new 2010 in the UK. Now in 2018 after much repair cost I think the same. Switches left and right hand replaced 5 times. New clutch(complete), new drive shaft and last week a new radiator. Corrosion is a big problem here and I've leant the hard way. ACF-50 is the stuff to apply. I've ridden it all over Europe, North Africa and on Race circuit. I just had a new 1600 to play with. Which is the best Bike to ride to the Alps. Then push it over the cliff and get on a K1300Gt and have some fun.
Thanks for your review Chris. I'm now the proud owner of a 2010 GT SE including a top box in Royal Blue metallic like the one here. Had less than 18,000 miles on her and since last July have now done over 27,000 miles. The BEST bike I've ever had and a really under-rated machine. Test rode a new 2020 R1250RT but didn't gel with it, so it looks like it'll have to be a K1600GT SE when the 13 is worn out. Keep the excellent vids coming.
Nice video. I own a 2010 K1300GT, got it in 2016 with 24,000 miles on it, did a solo 1100 mile ride last year and I love the bike. It handles very well, is nimble yet fast and well balanced. I am going to the international MOA Rally in July in Salt Lake City this summer and expect to put on 2,500+ miles and look forward to meeting others who own this great bike. This seems to have much of the torque and HP of the K1600 and weighs 100 lbs less. Thanks for the video!
I am an owner of a 2009 K1300 GT. I have had it for a year. Got it with 19k on the clock. Love it.
Going for my fist long haul tomorrow.
Good omen seeing this review. Well done.
I get loads of positive comments from men and women. It is, as you said, a nice looking bike. Performance is very good.
Excellent review sir. Very laid back and professional. I want this bike next. Presently have a zzr1200.
I bought one last year (2011 model) and I can easily say it will probably be the best bike I will ever own. Came off a ZX14. Anyone thinking about, I say go for it and you wont regret. This bike does everything so well.
As always, a very in depth honest review...
This is the most beautiful and performing bike I have ever driven......... I love mine......
Thank You, great review in well spoken words!
I have a 08. 1200gt and I love it. The 1300's still seam to go for a premium. But the 1200's are a hell of a deal. if you can find a low mile deal like me. $4800 with 7k miles with everything but the esc.
Nice review, thanks for posting.
Nice review, I have exactly the same bike and color. Owned since new. This bike revs higher than 1600GT to about 10,500 RPM . I keep it completely bone stock. I use it has touring bike and has served me well.
Thank you, very great and useful review!
Hi Chris,
thanks a lot for you´re very helpfull video about the K1300GT. For me, who is interesteted in buying this machine, it give a lot of hints to keep an eye on.
Greetings from Germany, hope Corona in Canada is not such a big tragedy.
Thanks for this Review, made me buy this 2011 exclusiv edition only 25000k the firtst two owners died. I hope this is not a trendnow. What a bike! What a power
What a Beautiful Bike 👍😎😁
I'm thinking of getting one....
Great editing
great video Chris, I'm thinking about buying a motorcycle and this is a great way to make the correct decision
Bought one today after this review
Good review mate, looking at going from a Harley Davidson to one of these, cheers from Australia
Bought a Red 2009 Premium (all options) with 18k, color matched side bags and top case. All maintenance records and very contentious owner.
How is the bike after 2yrs? Thks
Thanks for this review! Similar to your friend, I also bought a K1300GT used a couple years ago (coming off of an FJR1300) and it's just a terrific bike. I've often wondered why there were not more video reviews! Regarding the windscreen, I've tried both the Z-teknik V-Stream and a Cee Baileys. Prefer the Cee Baileys significantly more. The Z-teknik V-Stream was made of a thinner plastic and shook a lot in the wind.
I agree I have a '09 K1300GT and love it. I initially had the Z-teknik V-Stream but recently switched to the Aeroflow screen, I find the Aeroflow to reduce wind buffeting and noise much better than the V-Stream windshield.
Don Newlon i
I have a 08 k1200gt I also have both the screens you do and I prefer the cee bailey's also. It's thicker and a little taller. The vstream does look a bit more aggressive though
Brilliant review thanks. I'd be curious to know why you got rid of your K16? Take care.
A nice relaxed video with no annoying music. I looked at a 1300GT some time back but eventually went for the R1200RT. I very much enjoyed my time with the RT but I am now looking back at the 1300GT. The one I drove left a lasting impression on me, it seemed to be a 'do it all' bike, sporty when needed and with enough comfort to go touring. At times I found the RT a little wide whereas the 1300GT cuts a narrower profile making traffic work a little easier. With 4 bikes in the garage already it takes a special bike to join them - perhaps the GT will do that nicely.
The Owner is 6ft and 260pounds and happy with it? Sounds good to me, i‘m 2,05m and 115kg. Thanks for review, now i will try a K1300.
Seems a far better bet than the 16 -> perhaps the flaws have been ironed out now, but the reviews haven't been all that good for the new one. More is less?
Nice review of the bike Chris. I've been looking at a K1300GT today and found the legroom cramped, which I had expected. With the raised seat and lower pegs, the bike you reviewed looks nice and roomy. Do you know what raised seat is fitted and how much higher it is? Also, with the lower pegs, how is the gear shift position? I found the stock pegs to have quite a short distance between the shifter and the peg, it looks like it would be better with a lower peg, it would be good to know how it sits on the bike you tried.
The seat is a Corbin, and i believe its the tall version. The owner of this bike is 6'2"
and he is sensitive to aches and pains-- he loves it the way it is. As you may be aware, there is some adjustability in the shift lever position, and it seems to be perfect with these pegs. For the record, i am an even 6'.
You looked like you had a LOT of room. I am 6'4" and expect to do some mods if I buy the bike - pegs, seat and screen.
Hi Chris, love your reviews. Got myself a K1300GT premium edition last month with only 12K miles on it. Bike is fantastic. I was wondering about the bike you review here ... Where did your friend get the passenger seat cover ? I suppose that's custom made ? Looking forward to reading you.
That is not a seat cover, but actually a small trunk that takes the place of the rear seat. It is lockable and watertight. He bought it used, and it was made by Corbin. I am not sure if they still make them. I cannot seem to locate them on the website.
Great work Chris!!! Have you ventured across the line into the USA on a tour?
beozzie690 many times every year. We typically run the upper east coast into New York and New England. When in the south and southwest we usually arrange for rental bikes.
Nice review. I wish they still made them, as I feel there's a slightly different market for the k16, which although very very good, looks to be of epic proportions - more of a (faster) gold wing type application. The K13 for more sporty 'tourer' bike riding with some comfort. Would probably go fjr13 because of potentially expensive beemer glitches. Gtr14 is a bus, too fat, wide, cumbersome imo. (St13 dinosaur, under powered, speed wobble (maybe) but otherwise excellent).
FJR. Low maint $$$. BMW, ouch!
Hi Chris. I love your videos and completely respect your opinions. I'm looking at the BMW1300GT, Kawasaki Concours 1400 and Yamaha FJR1300. I love the BMW K1300GT but I've heard that BMW cost of ownership in terms of repairs is quite a bit higher. That is, I've heard that BMWs don't have as good a reputation as the Japanese bikes for reliability. What are your thought.
I have owned each of the bikes you mentioned. Aside from a series of failed valve guides on my Yamaha that the company would not warrantee (much to my anger), I had zero issues with the Japanese bikes. But that being said, I have owned 3 BMWs and have had zero issues with them as well. However, my mileage has been less than 30000 on each, so heavy wear was not an issue.
I know first hand of issues with BMW's from other owners, and yes, the repairs are generally more expensive. The bikes are unquestionably more sophisticated.
This sophistication has an upside, though. Its in the ride and the experience. Thats why I changed to them. I attended a test ride and never looked back. If you take one out and aren't blown away, then its an easy decision to go with the FJR or Kawi. If you are blown away, but still fret over the cost of ownership, consider doing the work yourself to bring the cost in line with the others.
As a footnote, the cost difference in normal service isn't as big as you might think. My dealer charges about the same for a valve service on an FJR as they do on a K13.
What did you go for in the end? :-)
Hi Chris, I know that this is a old post, but hopefully you still see it and help me on my decision.I am looking at a k1300gt on line, and because of the pandemic have not gone to see it in person. My questions for you would be first about heat coming at your legs, is there any? Second, how easy is to put this big bike on the centre stand. I am 5`10 and about 160 lb. Thank you in advance.
Jani Mara I have only ridden the K13 for a few hours, as it doesn’t belong to me, however I did not experience any heat issues on my legs that I can recall at all. And regarding the Center stand, with a little practice you will have no problem at all.
@@kiki231000 Thank you very much.
You keep referring to an RT. Do you mean the R bike?
Just bought this exact same bike. Bike of the year 2009/2010 yet it disappeared from the BMW lineup in 2011 and later...
Looking at an 2010 k1300gt with 33k, looks mint. Do you think this is to many miles on that motor? thanks and stay safe
no -- 33 is NOT a lot for that bike or engine. Take a look at my K13 service video to make sure the cam chain issue is dealt with
Can anyone share your thoughts on a recommendation for installing a BMW Motorrad Navigator VI GPS (with cradle) for this particular bike? I'm not sure I'd really benefit from having it without the "wonder wheel' and associated infotainment systems like that of the later K1600 models
Kenneth Wise I think you would still see the many benefits with a nav install on this bike. I have the wonder wheel on my rt. The additional benefits are a novelty. With modern smart phones and Bluetooth intercoms you can do almost everything else on the k13
@@kiki231000 OUTSTANDING Chris, I really appreciate your response and advice. I loved your review of your friends K1300GT. My bike is amazing, if only I could find a 2nd hand 49liter topcase near me I'd be STOKED! They're pricey new and 2nd hand ones are practically impossible to find in my area. I might have to just fork out the money and get one thru my local Sealership.
Just bought a 2010 model with 43k on it. Anything I should look for as far as maintenance. I would assume that I should check with a BMW dealer with the VIN to see if there are any outstanding recalls or TSB's
Douglas Smith I would suggest watching my video on the 20k service on this bike. In that video I talk about the cam chain issues and the remedies.
Any chance of a link to that video :)
Very nice review recently bought a 2008 1200GT gave my old 1987 K100rt to my son bike was 32 years old and still great condition tires , battery , nothing else service the bike myself ..however this 2008 scares me ..service seems complicated . Any good dealer or mechanic to recommend ...Fredericton NB. Thanks
MY wife computer ..i am Ben
The Service on the K12/K13 shouldn't scare you. There are a few special tools, but if you plan on keeping it as long as your old K100, the tools are a minor expense. The bikes are pretty solid when you take care of them.
If you still decide that you want a dealer to service it, near you in Moncton there is Rallye Motoplex. The lead tech rides Trials with me and is very seasoned.
FYI-- in the coming weeks i will be posting a major service (20000K) of the K13 featured in this video. You will be able to see whats involved and determine if its above your pay scale.
Thanks Chris , i will watch your videos very nice , Rallye Motoplex is now associated with Rallye Motors ..scares me a bit . Will refrain from making comments . Thanks again
HI Chris, great review. How does the GT compare to the late model RTW's? Especially the bike CG feel, vibration, and power. Tks.
The power is much greater in the K13, and it is smoother. However it comes on a little later in the rev band. the RT seems a little lighter and easier to swing around.
Thinking about getting the K1200s, any advice or suggestions?
Get the 13, better front suspension.
@@bseidem5112 thank you for the advice! Price is a very sensitive point for me though and I think the 1300 is more expensive 😂😅
Are these reliable bikes if they're ridden daily?
Ha Ha HA. Maint? $$$$$$$$$$$$$
Hello there Chris -- great videos.
I was hoping you would comment more on the differences and similarities between the K1300GT and the K1600GT that replaces it. I've owned a K1300S which is (as you'll know) the same engine as the K1300GT, albeit in a different tune -- great engine, lovely handling, shame about the neck pain.
I'm also well aware of the differences in specs and this site gives some interesting views on that comparison: www.ashonbikes.com/content/bmw-k1600gt-torque-comparison ... essentially, it says that at most normal highway speeds, the K1300GT actually has more torque available as the engine runs at higher revs and has less weight to push. What is your experience?
What I would love to hear from you is a more qualitative comparison -- are they very different beasts? Is the K1600GT a larger and heavier version of the K1300GT or a different bike altogether? Is the K1300GT more akin to a K1300S with better ergonomics or the K1600GT with a more hissy engine?
Regards Soren - in Denmark
TO begin, I must state that I have not owned a K13; i have driven this particular one on a few occasions, but i don't live with it. As most who have watched my videos know, I DID own a K16. And i really liked the bike.
That being said, it doesn't take much time on each to note how different each is. The K16 is a big heavy bike that has a unique gem of an engine. It excels best at strait line driving. It feels completely different from the K13 it replaced, and i would think they were targeting an American audience with long strait roads. If you like your K1300S, but want more comfort, then you should consider the K13GT if you can find one. There is not much difference between the 13S and the 13GT compared to the 16.
As far as power and speed is concerned, we ran countless acceleration comparisons between he two and the K16 does not feel any faster than the K13, regardless of what numbers might say.
If you are spending more than 4 hours at a time on the bike, you will notice that the K16 is MUCH less fatiguing -- it does a better job at long distances (which is my thing).
They have a massive timing chain problem as well as electric over hydraulic brake problem plus clutch problem.
Check out my video on servicing this bike. Those problems were dealt with
@@kiki231000 can you provide the link please.
The totally awful clutch ruined this bike for me.
Huh? Awful clutch? Can you please elaborate, my K1300GT is nails..
I have a 2010 BMW k 1300 GT prior I had a 2007 BMW k1200 GT it isn't just that there's all kinds of horsepower and that the muffler makes wonderful noise. It's like driving a Ferrari or Lamborghini. The Bavarian side of Germany though Rather than the Italian Bavarian Alps. The bottom line is yes they're very fast and yes you can handle it and yes they stop on a diamond handle turning on a quarter. The truth is they probably one of the best motorcycles for the combination of tuoring two up luggage.
😊 More importantly you can ride by yourself and take off all the cases and have a wonderful sport bike combo roadster. I also have a 2009 or 1200 RT All three bikes are wonderful. But I must say the k 1300 was lighter than the 1200 faster more horsepower and handled at low speeds like the R1200RT. It's very hard to say which bike is best because bodies are built different like bikes to ride. Roads road conditions atmospheric conditions as well. In the end there are a lot of great beautiful motorcycles at the Japanese make and the Italians. This is just one of the best. Like a fine wine who's to say everyone has individual taste but I must say this guy was not going fast he was actually going slow in this video I do not ride fast but I'm telling you the bike could do way more than what the video is showing. I prefer to ride and cruise and enjoy the power and stop and smell the roses😊