This is the ugliest bike BMW has ever made, and I think you should buy it because nobody else wants to. A few months back, I got to ride my buddy Jared’s R1200ST for 100 miles and enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It did everything well. Handled like a sportier RT, and in every other way is just like a R1200. It’s like a Porsche Panamera. As long as you don’t have to look at it from certain angles, it’s really a positive experience.
The ST was the heir to the RS that BMW sold successfully for so many years. Unfortunately though, the ST must not have been too popular because it was only available in 2005. I’m sure the success of the second generation K1200GT also had something to do with it. As you probably know, BMW just reintroduced the RS with the water cooled engine. It follows the same basic formula that made BMW sport-tourers successful and popular. It has a boxer engine making 110 horsepower, shaft drive, good wind protection with the ability to change screens easily, a great hard luggage set, and ergonomics that were a little more aggressive than what you’d see on the RT or GS, but still not uncomfortable. With bar risers and lowering the pegs, I think you’d actually be quite comfortable. While the looks are certainly an acquired taste, what’s easy to appreciate is the value this bike represents. An ST is a bike you can pick up for a thousand or two less than a comparable GS. In fact it’s not that much more valuable than the bike it replaced, the twin spark R1150R but has much more power. The only complaint the owner of the one I rode had was that he said he had a very difficult time changing headlight bulbs. Other than that, it had been a problem-free motorcycle for him. This particular one has about 26,000 miles and some wear and tear but if you’re looking at buying this, that probably won’t stop you.
For someone that wants to rack up a lot of miles, doesn’t want to spend a lot, but wants the amenities of a good sport tourer, I think the ST should be in the conversation. It’s the same basic package as the R, RT, and GS in a more affordable package. Just keep that headlight out of your trip photos. Find this one in the Fort Lauderdale area for $5,900 here on Cycle Trader.