Great write up, thanks for posting, and from a fellow motorcyclist, congrats on the R1150RT as well.
I was wondering about the cost saving measures that BMW seems to be taking these days as well... it seems like (from what I read on E90 boards) that 2009 or 2010 3-series is missing things like lining under the front hood, second outlet in arm rest compartment, pre-wiring for the alarm is gone, etc.
It seems like BMW is cutting everywhere they can to save a buck or two.