The new BMWs certainly are impressive, and they have the price tags to match. An R1200RT runs $17,000 before options. Except for the electronics and such on a BMW, the basic motor and drive train are easy to work on. For example, a valve adjustment is easier to do than on our bikes. But if you don't do your own work, it can be expensive.
When I bought my Speedmaster, I thought I was doomed to ride with foot forward controls because of my bad knees. However, since I had my right knee replaced I think I can comfortably ride in a more upright position again, which is what I prefer. Bikes like the R1200RT, V-Strom, Tiger, etc, are what I have in mind, something along the lines of a UJM riding posture. The Speedmaster is my first cruiser, before that I had a CB750 and a Yamaha Radian.
