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N4TI*N ADVLux 2012/2013.
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<blockquote data-quote="nikhuzlan" data-source="post: 660785" data-attributes="member: 19744"><p><strong>N4TION ADVLux </strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Day 5. 7jan2013 Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Time flies when one is having fun. We left Luang Prabang with a better idea of what we're going to do the next time we come here. </strong></p><p><strong>Its a great place to do nothing. </strong></p><p><strong>That morning i met with the husband of the Russian Ambasador to Malaysia. He comes to Luang Prabang frequently for holidays as his wife previously headed the Embassy in Laos before being transferred to Malaysia. </strong></p><p><strong>We took a picture together. </strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_02.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>The road back to Vang Vieng seems 'easier' than the time I rode it last. Familiarity can be comforting. </strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_01.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>But its still treacherous and slippery.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_03.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_05.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Offroad sections still there</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_06.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_07.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>But the scenery is unmatched. Tatched roofs, backdrop of the karst Mountains, cool temperatures.....</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_08.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_09.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_10.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>We stopped at this cluster of huts overlooking a valley. I was drawn by the original old style look of this single room hut. </strong></p><p><strong>Sturdily built despite being all wood and essentially dried grass.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_14.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_12.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Kids wanted a photo with us.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_11.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>A short ride away was the Phou Khoun viewpoint.</strong><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_16.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_17.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_18.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Another quick stop at Ban Pho Chou </strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_19.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_20.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_21.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_22.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_24.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>The short easy ride from Luang Prabang took us just under 4 hours of riding time. We reached Vang Vieng before 1530, and checked in again at the Riverside Lodge. </strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_23.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>As we were enjoying a swim in the pool, we heard the unmistakable sound of the Boxer Twin, and also the sound of someone horning. Dato Kamarul went to check, and to our delight, we saw two water-cooled GS with a film crew. They saw our bikes and wanted to know what we were doing here in 'exotic' ( to them ) Laos. </strong></p><p><strong>We got talking and found that they were running the "One World One GS " Adventure for BMW Germany. </strong></p><p><strong>When the GS was unvieled at EICMA, BMW ran a contest to select 5 lucky winners. They will be given a chance to ride the GS at locations around the world. We happened to have met them in the Laos Segment.</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>The GS</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_25.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>With Alessio, one of the 5 winners</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_27.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>That night Eric, the Main Coordinator invited us to join them for dinner.</strong></p><p><strong>Of course we ere more interested in the bike.</strong><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_29.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_30.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_28.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>N4TION ADVLux </strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Day 6. 8jan2013 Vang Vieng</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Today we intend to do nothing, just laze around. But as we were having breakfast, we heard the GS at the car park and when we went out to check, we saw Eric withthe BMW instructor looking to borrow some soares from us. It turns out that the rented Thai GSA had a siezed rear brake. The pads were worn right through. They wanted to borrow brake pads but when I saw the rear disc, i told them that they gonna need a new disc as well as the one on the bike is all burnt and badly warped. </strong></p><p><strong>Eventually they secured the bike and a spare Kawasaki KLR was sent from Vientiane, arriving in the afternoon.</strong></p><p><strong>Eric then hung out with us until midday. </strong></p><p><strong>Plans have been made for Eric to possibly join us on our Borneo trip this year end.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_01.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_02.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>The TKC80 seems to be the tyre of choice for offloading</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_03.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Eddy Tan is probably the first Asian to ride this LC. Its 8 Jan, and the press launch is only planned for 20th Jan in South Africa.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_04.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>I had a go too. </strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_06.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong><em>A Sidetrack Story</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>I am no bike tester, and there are definitely better and more experienced riders elsewhere. But i was at the right place at the right time.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>First of all - switches. K16 type thumbwheel. This means horn and signals are far away for the thumb - not good because not easy to use. ASC, ESA and ABS shares one switch - potential for confusion.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em>There's cruise control similar to RT and GT - good.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em>All this is left side handgrip. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Right side handgrip - start/kill switch. Mode selector button. Heated grip switch. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>I personally prefer the current bike setup. the switches are very robust and works with no problem ever since it came out in 2004. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>But maybe the new one is better although I think its a cost saving initiative for BMW as the switches seems common on the GT, RT, Scooter etc etc.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>I asked the test rider if some key adjustments are hidden in layers of menu that needs access via the thumbwheel but he said no. its easier. i did not have time to try it myself. I kinda like the current system on the GS, ie, for damping adjustment you can do it on the fly using just one button but on the K16Gt you need to access the menu and scroll, wasting precious time that should be spent on the road.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>I am very happy to note that both speedometer and rev counter are still analogue needle type and not digital like on most modern bikes.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The R1200GS is fitted with a slipper clutch, aka Sprague Clutch, aka Limited Slip Clutch. This is not a new thing as many sports bikes comes with it. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>In fact, the Honda VFR1000 ( the one with the Gear driven Cam ) of the mid 80s was the first bike to come with it as standard. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The GS / Boxers since the beginning has always used the SDP clutch, similar to cars. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>But the Water Boxer now comes with a wet multi plate clutch, making the sprague mechanism easily applicable. Hence the slipper clutch becomes standard.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em>And with the increased power and torque, this slipper clutch will be much welcomed and will definitely reduce the possibility of momentary rear wheel lockups on downshifts.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>When the R80GS came out in the early 80s, it was regarded as nothing more than a 'store' project by some designers with a little free time. The R80 grew to beome the R100. The Paralever came in early in the game, and as i remembered it, was BMW's lasting and significant contribution to the shaft driven fraternity. This design is now unabashedly copied by even the British on the Explorer.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The first real change came in late 93, when BMW introduced the R259 engine as well as the now common Telelever. Designed to separate suspension / steering / braking forces, it was, while heavy, a clever design, which i am sure is one of the reason for its planted front end feel, making the bike more user friendly.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Strangely, the first R259 Telelevered BMW was not the GS, but it came out as the RS. The GS came a year later. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The R259 GS can be considered as the Second Generation. The superseded R100GS was a lighter and less complex machine, a favorite of many RTW Riders even today. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Towards the end of its Model life, BMW released the R1150 just after we entered the new millennium. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>When the current model was released, BMW made plenty of changes which resulted in a lighter bike but with more power and traction control. The ABS was upgraded, and electronic suspension became an option. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The 2013 LC which will supersede the current model seems to be more roadbiased than the current one, with bigger rear tyres being a clue to this slant. BMW has definitely done its research, and knows that 90% of the GS riders just want to look the part, and the only offroad these riders will ever encounter is when they reverse their GS on to the grass to make a uturn in their garage. These explains the big rear tyre, the increased HP and more power modes than needed. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Its also probably in response to the Triumph / Multistrada / Versys 1000, and the like. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>This 4th Generation model seems more refined, and with the "Idrive" thumbwheel ( I hate this crap on my GT ) there will be many ooooohs and aaaaaaahs from the faithful BMW fans.</em></strong></p><p> <strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>This bike is one of two they registered for the One World One GS Ride. So we ( Eddy and Me ) only had a fleeting ride on the bike in the vicinity of the Hotel. I couldn't even get out of 4th gear. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Starting means pressing an unfamiliar rocker like the K16 for seasoned GS riders. The engine settled into a low rumble, the sound similar to the current bike, no louder nor quieter. Switches had a tactile feel to it, the thumbwheel making its presence felt the moment you need to put indicators on. Unlike the current model, effort is required to move your palm closer to allow the thumb to reach the horn and indicators. I never liked it even after 8,000km on my K16.</em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The Instrument panel has a bigger LCD patch which carries more info fro quick presentation to the rider. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The clutch action is lighter ( Bigger pump and Multi plate clutch perhaps ) and the first gear sneaks in without a clunk. Gear changes definitely smoother and less clunky. I felt the first gear requires less clutch balancing to get the bike moving. They could have lowered the ratio or maybe the engine has more power at that low rev than the current GSA I am riding. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Off idle fuel metering is spot on, the bike able to putter with throttle on idle even in 3rd gear. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>The bike is heavier ( hard to judge by how much as it had fully loaded panniers fitted. ). Full lock turns are easier as I felt the bike had better balance. Seat position / height cannot be accurately judged as it was set on high position for the current rider. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>I did not have the opportunity to test the brakes so unable to comment on the difference. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Based on what was told to me by the BMW team there, the bike has performed flawlessly after covering nearly 5,000kms. </em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Regardless of how good it is ( I believe very good ) this GS will be another hot seller even on name alone.</em></strong></p><p></p><p><strong>Eric runs a company contracted by BMW Motorrad AG to shoot promotional material, both stills and videos for bike launches. He is the person who operationalises the One World One R1200GS Program.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_08.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>The GS was not the only BMW we tested. Dato' Kamarul also 'test drove' the latest BMW Rallye jacket, and declared it better than the current Rallye 3 as it seems lighter and more airy, i.e., cooler.</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_12.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Eventually all their bike woes were solved and they left on the 'bike of wet-dream' - for the many BMW fans that is.....</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_11.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_10.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Meanwhile, back on earth, mere mortals like us can only mount bikes that we pay for and play games that we can afford.</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Pic by Kamarul R Muhamad</strong></p><p><img src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_13.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>Video by T3 on their ride in Laos. We are featured at 7:50 onwards.</p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7pd1N9dyLp4#" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7pd1N9dyLp4#</a>!</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="nikhuzlan, post: 660785, member: 19744"] [b]N4TION ADVLux Day 5. 7jan2013 Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng Time flies when one is having fun. We left Luang Prabang with a better idea of what we're going to do the next time we come here. Its a great place to do nothing. That morning i met with the husband of the Russian Ambasador to Malaysia. He comes to Luang Prabang frequently for holidays as his wife previously headed the Embassy in Laos before being transferred to Malaysia. We took a picture together. [/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_02.jpg[/img] [b]The road back to Vang Vieng seems 'easier' than the time I rode it last. Familiarity can be comforting. [/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_01.jpg[/img] [b]But its still treacherous and slippery.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_03.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_05.jpg[/img] [b]Offroad sections still there[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_06.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_07.jpg[/img] [b]But the scenery is unmatched. Tatched roofs, backdrop of the karst Mountains, cool temperatures.....[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_08.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_09.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_10.jpg[/img] [b]We stopped at this cluster of huts overlooking a valley. I was drawn by the original old style look of this single room hut. Sturdily built despite being all wood and essentially dried grass.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_14.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_12.jpg[/img] [b]Kids wanted a photo with us.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_11.jpg[/img] [b]A short ride away was the Phou Khoun viewpoint.[/b][IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_16.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_17.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_18.jpg[/img] [b]Another quick stop at Ban Pho Chou [/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_19.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_20.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_21.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_22.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_24.jpg[/img] [b]The short easy ride from Luang Prabang took us just under 4 hours of riding time. We reached Vang Vieng before 1530, and checked in again at the Riverside Lodge. [/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_23.jpg[/img] [b]As we were enjoying a swim in the pool, we heard the unmistakable sound of the Boxer Twin, and also the sound of someone horning. Dato Kamarul went to check, and to our delight, we saw two water-cooled GS with a film crew. They saw our bikes and wanted to know what we were doing here in 'exotic' ( to them ) Laos. We got talking and found that they were running the "One World One GS " Adventure for BMW Germany. When the GS was unvieled at EICMA, BMW ran a contest to select 5 lucky winners. They will be given a chance to ride the GS at locations around the world. We happened to have met them in the Laos Segment. The GS[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_25.jpg[/img] [b]With Alessio, one of the 5 winners[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_27.jpg[/img] [b]That night Eric, the Main Coordinator invited us to join them for dinner. Of course we ere more interested in the bike.[/b][IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_29.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_30.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130107S3D5_28.jpg[/img] [b]N4TION ADVLux Day 6. 8jan2013 Vang Vieng Today we intend to do nothing, just laze around. But as we were having breakfast, we heard the GS at the car park and when we went out to check, we saw Eric withthe BMW instructor looking to borrow some soares from us. It turns out that the rented Thai GSA had a siezed rear brake. The pads were worn right through. They wanted to borrow brake pads but when I saw the rear disc, i told them that they gonna need a new disc as well as the one on the bike is all burnt and badly warped. Eventually they secured the bike and a spare Kawasaki KLR was sent from Vientiane, arriving in the afternoon. Eric then hung out with us until midday. Plans have been made for Eric to possibly join us on our Borneo trip this year end.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_01.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_02.jpg[/img] [b]The TKC80 seems to be the tyre of choice for offloading[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_03.jpg[/img] [b]Eddy Tan is probably the first Asian to ride this LC. Its 8 Jan, and the press launch is only planned for 20th Jan in South Africa.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_04.jpg[/img] [b]I had a go too. [/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_06.jpg[/img] [b][i]A Sidetrack Story I am no bike tester, and there are definitely better and more experienced riders elsewhere. But i was at the right place at the right time. First of all - switches. K16 type thumbwheel. This means horn and signals are far away for the thumb - not good because not easy to use. ASC, ESA and ABS shares one switch - potential for confusion. There's cruise control similar to RT and GT - good. All this is left side handgrip. Right side handgrip - start/kill switch. Mode selector button. Heated grip switch. I personally prefer the current bike setup. the switches are very robust and works with no problem ever since it came out in 2004. But maybe the new one is better although I think its a cost saving initiative for BMW as the switches seems common on the GT, RT, Scooter etc etc. I asked the test rider if some key adjustments are hidden in layers of menu that needs access via the thumbwheel but he said no. its easier. i did not have time to try it myself. I kinda like the current system on the GS, ie, for damping adjustment you can do it on the fly using just one button but on the K16Gt you need to access the menu and scroll, wasting precious time that should be spent on the road. I am very happy to note that both speedometer and rev counter are still analogue needle type and not digital like on most modern bikes. The R1200GS is fitted with a slipper clutch, aka Sprague Clutch, aka Limited Slip Clutch. This is not a new thing as many sports bikes comes with it. In fact, the Honda VFR1000 ( the one with the Gear driven Cam ) of the mid 80s was the first bike to come with it as standard. The GS / Boxers since the beginning has always used the SDP clutch, similar to cars. But the Water Boxer now comes with a wet multi plate clutch, making the sprague mechanism easily applicable. Hence the slipper clutch becomes standard. And with the increased power and torque, this slipper clutch will be much welcomed and will definitely reduce the possibility of momentary rear wheel lockups on downshifts. When the R80GS came out in the early 80s, it was regarded as nothing more than a 'store' project by some designers with a little free time. The R80 grew to beome the R100. The Paralever came in early in the game, and as i remembered it, was BMW's lasting and significant contribution to the shaft driven fraternity. This design is now unabashedly copied by even the British on the Explorer. The first real change came in late 93, when BMW introduced the R259 engine as well as the now common Telelever. Designed to separate suspension / steering / braking forces, it was, while heavy, a clever design, which i am sure is one of the reason for its planted front end feel, making the bike more user friendly. Strangely, the first R259 Telelevered BMW was not the GS, but it came out as the RS. The GS came a year later. The R259 GS can be considered as the Second Generation. The superseded R100GS was a lighter and less complex machine, a favorite of many RTW Riders even today. Towards the end of its Model life, BMW released the R1150 just after we entered the new millennium. When the current model was released, BMW made plenty of changes which resulted in a lighter bike but with more power and traction control. The ABS was upgraded, and electronic suspension became an option. The 2013 LC which will supersede the current model seems to be more roadbiased than the current one, with bigger rear tyres being a clue to this slant. BMW has definitely done its research, and knows that 90% of the GS riders just want to look the part, and the only offroad these riders will ever encounter is when they reverse their GS on to the grass to make a uturn in their garage. These explains the big rear tyre, the increased HP and more power modes than needed. Its also probably in response to the Triumph / Multistrada / Versys 1000, and the like. This 4th Generation model seems more refined, and with the "Idrive" thumbwheel ( I hate this crap on my GT ) there will be many ooooohs and aaaaaaahs from the faithful BMW fans. This bike is one of two they registered for the One World One GS Ride. So we ( Eddy and Me ) only had a fleeting ride on the bike in the vicinity of the Hotel. I couldn't even get out of 4th gear. Starting means pressing an unfamiliar rocker like the K16 for seasoned GS riders. The engine settled into a low rumble, the sound similar to the current bike, no louder nor quieter. Switches had a tactile feel to it, the thumbwheel making its presence felt the moment you need to put indicators on. Unlike the current model, effort is required to move your palm closer to allow the thumb to reach the horn and indicators. I never liked it even after 8,000km on my K16. The Instrument panel has a bigger LCD patch which carries more info fro quick presentation to the rider. The clutch action is lighter ( Bigger pump and Multi plate clutch perhaps ) and the first gear sneaks in without a clunk. Gear changes definitely smoother and less clunky. I felt the first gear requires less clutch balancing to get the bike moving. They could have lowered the ratio or maybe the engine has more power at that low rev than the current GSA I am riding. Off idle fuel metering is spot on, the bike able to putter with throttle on idle even in 3rd gear. The bike is heavier ( hard to judge by how much as it had fully loaded panniers fitted. ). Full lock turns are easier as I felt the bike had better balance. Seat position / height cannot be accurately judged as it was set on high position for the current rider. I did not have the opportunity to test the brakes so unable to comment on the difference. Based on what was told to me by the BMW team there, the bike has performed flawlessly after covering nearly 5,000kms. Regardless of how good it is ( I believe very good ) this GS will be another hot seller even on name alone.[/i][/b] [b]Eric runs a company contracted by BMW Motorrad AG to shoot promotional material, both stills and videos for bike launches. He is the person who operationalises the One World One R1200GS Program.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_08.jpg[/img] [b]The GS was not the only BMW we tested. Dato' Kamarul also 'test drove' the latest BMW Rallye jacket, and declared it better than the current Rallye 3 as it seems lighter and more airy, i.e., cooler.[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_12.jpg[/img] [b]Eventually all their bike woes were solved and they left on the 'bike of wet-dream' - for the many BMW fans that is.....[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_11.jpg[/img] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_10.jpg[/img] [b]Meanwhile, back on earth, mere mortals like us can only mount bikes that we pay for and play games that we can afford. Pic by Kamarul R Muhamad[/b] [IMG]http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k229/nikhuzlan/20130103ADVLuxPt4/fb20130108S3D6_13.jpg[/img] Video by T3 on their ride in Laos. We are featured at 7:50 onwards. [url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7pd1N9dyLp4#]https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7pd1N9dyLp4#[/url]! [/QUOTE]
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