Secrets on how to ride a BIG BMW R 1200 GS as a short rider REVEALED!
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- Опубліковано 12 лис 2022
- Is that lowered?
That a low seat yeah?
That's not yours...
You've not just arrived on that...
Things I often hear when people see me around my full height BMW GS.
Well, if you want to get the low down as to how I manage to ride a BMW GS - keep watching the vlog!
I hope you enjoy it!!!
Usernamekate 🏁
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#USERNAMEKATE #SHORTRIDER #BMWGS - Авто та транспорт
As an owner of my first ever GS1200. It feels like riding a truck to me but because i am 63 years old and Dwarf Size at 5'4". It took me while to gain the confidence in riding the Behemoth of a machine. But it was all well worth it. Now it's my daily ride. Thanks for sharing your video. Great encouragement to me.
I got a bit of flack for this video but it's comments like that make me happy I put it out! So glad you're enjoying your behemoth!
I'd just like to pin this comment to stop people getting their knickers in a twist.
I posted this video to show that as a 29 inch inseamer... riding a GS is possible. Of course you need to take factors into account like years of riding, confidence levels etc.
I'm not saying a 4ft 11 human should go out and buy a hypermotard and that they will be completely safe. Just like I wouldn't jump on a full height GS Adventure (890/910mm height) and have it as my only bike.
What I'm getting at is... a lot of people limit themselves to what bike options are available to them when the reality is they really don't have to with a bit of confidence and experience behind them.
As getting both feet down at all times (when you have a bit of experience behind you) isn't a strict requirement to being able to ride a bike or dealbreaker for that matter!!
Enjoy!
Hi Kate, if you swap out the BMW seat bobbins with the Wunderlich seat bobbins (£27.00 from Nippy Normans), it drops the front of the seat by 10mm. On a low chassis 2016 triple black with the standard executive set (that comes with the bike), the Wunderlich bobbins reduces the seat height to 790mm meaning that a person with a 29" inseam should be able to flatfoot it. Keep up the great vids!
That's good to know, thanks.
Great 👍 🎉 🎉 🎉 ❤
Thankyou. I've just ordered some. Just a thought though, as the nose of the seat is lower, is it noticeably pushing you towards the tank?
As you're probably aware by now, there is no noticeable difference of being pushed forward.Glad it helped.
Does this work on a standard GSA?
Totally agree with your comments Kate , I’m 5 “ 7 “ and been riding 51 years now and never had a problem. The infatuation with you must be able to put 2 feet down when you stop is rubbish, never done it , just pick your best place etc ( inclines , cambers etc , now I’ve started in my seventies I get a few aches in my hips when getting on the bike but hay ho it goes away if you sit on the bike while it warms up😊😊, and won’t stop me riding . Great vlog as usual 🤪😊👍👍
Another change in subject matter nailed! You pointed out the most important subject to master with riding period, it's all technic. Be willing to try and learn from your mistakes and most important of all, have fun!
Watching this, all I could think of was a little kid riding a full size bicycle. When you see it done right, it's beautiful.
I am blown away at how you keep rocking these videos. Can't wait for the next one
Great video Kate and really helps not just on a gs but pretty much all taller bikes. Your dead right about getting the mindset right and working around things to over come any issues. BRILLIANT 👏
Totally agree! I'm 5'7" with a GS as well. Took me awhile to realize "mind over matter", or "I'm the boss of this bike".
Awesome vid, so glad to see you riding the full height. I'm 6'2" so can get both feet on the floor, but have to say that stepping of my 1100LT and onto the GS, I had doubts instantly, its bloody huge, so can understand shorter riders thinking nope, cant ride that. Keep up the great vids, and I hope this has encouraged more riders to look twice now.
Great video Kate! I think this video get some people moving to get into motorcycles. I enjoy your content, its very well done, and I always smile when I see a new video on your channel! Best!😊
What an awesome video Kate, truly inspiring and motivating for so many out there looking to buy a GS one day, like me. Well done and thank you for sharing it! 👍👍
You should be proud Kate, that is an amazing achievement. Really great advice, thank you. I’m fortunately 5ft 9 but my issue is the weight of the GS which I hope to be my next bike as hubby has one and loves it, so this has really helped. Thank you 🙏🏻
Clearly, no one, absolutely no one can pretend to be the boss of you.
Thank you so much for that all at once instructive, inspiring and fortifying video
👍👏💪✌
You’re absolutely right about needing to be the Boss of the bike. It’s great to see your confidence when on-board the GS.
Great video Kate. I'm 5'8" with a 29" inside leg and ride my full height Multistrada v4s. It's light as a feather when riding, but a hefty lump to move in the garage.
It's a tall bike and I was a bit apprehensive before I had a test ride, but you are right, with a confident mindset and careful forward planning we short arses can enjoy the big bikes too. 👍
Hi Kate very topical video 👏👏👏👏....if I was still able to ride definitely a GS would be on my shopping list . And being 7 inches taller than you I wouldn't have a problem. But you have proved that shorter riders can use the GS and enjoy your riding. So proud to be a subscriber on this channel and follow your journey. 🙏🙏🙏😎😎😎😎👏👏👏👏👏
I bought a gsa low this year. Best bike yet!
Also I am 5’10”, but with baby legs!
Kate, thanks for your input and film, they are always enjoyed!
You are an inspiration! Love all your videos, especially those with your Dad. Thanks.
You forgot to mention kate, it helps if you are a badass rider like yourself! I am so impressed at how you throw those big bikes around, puts many of us bigger chaps to shame. Really good contribution / help for those vertically challenged.
Great vlog Kate , I`m 5,7 so still a short ass but over the years you have to learn and adapt but its not impossible to ride taller bikes as you myself and many other people prove everyday , but I think it is good that major manufacturers have listened to there consumers and given us vertically challenged folk the option for lower bikes , seats etc , but at the end of the day its what people feel confident to ride , well done Kate for addressing this popular topic of debate 😁 safe riding 👍
Agree, you gotta 'own' it. Your the boss. A great delivery Kate.
The important thing is to stay motivated. Keep on making the next video I always wish you good luck
I think you nailed it. Attitude is everything, with a bit of technique, you too can be the “boss” of these tall machines. Well spoken young Lady. 👍🏼
Hi Kate, I came to you to buy a RS , you made me come down knowing you didn't have a RS to test drive because you knew I needed a GS , and I bought it, best bike I have ever had , thank you, good review and keep up the good work 👏
Everything you say is true, I’m a good bit smaller than you, I bought the 1250 when they first came out and got rid in only a couple of months convinced it was too big for me, couple of months ago tried again,bought the lowered one and got the same mind set as you and started bossing it, now I’m loving it 😍
Great vid Kate, and very interesting, even for those of us who in theory don’t have the same problem. However, I have to admit that my GSA is the only bike in my stable that I’m just a bit scared of. At every stop, I’m considering which foot needs to go down (it can’t be both!) I know gold standard would be left down, right on brake, but the slightest unevenness, pothole, gravel and especially, steep camber, means a rethink is needed. I think it’s a great road bike but I took it off-road once - never again! I’ll use my G650GS, because I can always pick that up!
Great video Kate, Big up to BMW for height consideration and Low chase profile but the Standard GS is Awesome
I am shorty
5.3 and I bought Triumph Tiger 900 GT low and I love it.
And this is a short rider bike.
And is make at home.
i LOVE that you love it Greg! Great to hear!
Me too! With 30mm lowering links, Daytona Star boots and the Tiger suspension in comfort mode I am King of the road.😁
Fantastic vid!!!!! Like your positive i can do attitude. Thanks from Seattle.
Great video, not only are you shorter than most GS riders but you are better than them! Username Dad has taught you well, I'm a fellow shorty at 5'6" so I wear Daytona M-Star boots with built up in soles then I can flat foot (with one foot) my zzr14, I remember your recent vlog on the Bugly sorry Busa, you had no trouble throwing that big girl about (positive mental attitude) Joseline Snow at 5' 2" is another great you tuber to watch. Really enjoyed that.
Great vid Kate. As a recent convert to an early model R1200GS (2004), having been a lifelong Fj1200 and FJR1300 rider, I agree with all the main points you make.
I'm now in my 60s and don't have the strength and agility of my younger days, but I can hustle the bike around with no real problems and am looking forward to putting off for many more years the dreaded day when I finally have to go from 2 wheels to a cage.
Best wishes
Chris
It's not 'kinda like a great achievement'. It is a great one. Good on you girl !!
That was nicely explained and well constructed that was enjoyable to watch,
Useful video, Kate, thank you. I did really want a GS after I passed my test but felt they were a bit too tall, and I didn't feel confident on them as I couldn't flat foot the bike. I'm about average at 5'10", so in the end I went for the R model, same DNA, different package. For now I'm happy, if I ever need to buy a bike again I think I'd probably be a bit more confident on a GS and would certainly take a look.
Oh yeah, and PS, hope to see you at MCL this Saturday! :D
Great video Kate, I just came upon your channel. I too ride a R1250GS and I’m also 5’ 4” tall with a 29 inch inseam, I’ll admit when I first sat on the GS at the dealership I was a bit intimidated because I could only hold the bike up on my tip toes. After three years of riding it I’m glad I bought it. I ride solo frequently and I have been able to pick up the bike the few times I dropped it in dirt, like you said it’s in the technique.
Fab video Kate. Great content and tips. Go girl! 😊
I really miss my 2018 GSA Ralle TE. One of the best bikes I’ve ever owned. It just took everything in its stride. 😢
Brilliant, as usual!! Nicely done°
Good video - great roads up there! Love visiting my fam up north 👌🏼 wanting to get a GS for next summer up there 🤞🏻
Short in stature but big in skills, experience & personality! Every Vlog makes me smile & that's basically why i became a Patreon!
Thanks for your confidence inspiring video. Having come off my factory lowered 1250GS a couple of times - OK - 3 times! I’ve become nervous of full lock turns at low speeds. A friend suggested dropping my arms and bringing my elbows into my body. I tried this and it made me move forward in the seat, but seemed to help. I’ll keep practicing!
Practice makes perfect! Don't get disheartened, I've dropped enough in my lifetime 🤣
A good review on how to handle a taller bike. You give anyone who maybe shorter the confidence to try out a taller bike
Love your attitude towards it, you certainly are confident on the GS and dont let the fact that it is a big bike affect you at all. I'm fortunate enough that I'm 6'5 so seat height really doesn't affect me too much unless it's a really low bike. But for me, the higher the better.
I am 5'4. I ride these bikes without fear. I learned techniques: how you stop( always put a right foot on the brake pedal, , and the left foot on the floor) how you park, how you turn, hiw you make a u turn.etc... I even handle the bike better than those that are taller.
Nice vid Kate, I’ve not spent enough time on a GS which is something i need to rectify!
Inspiring. Thanks, Kate!
You're so welcome!
Excellent! Well explained! In summary, it’s Mind Over Dangle! Sharing with my daughter as she’s getting into riding.
Thank you username Kate!😊👍
Great video, Kate , thanks & take care🤞😊🤞👍
Loved it! Well done and I could not agree more
great video. just brought one. Even being a 5.10 bloke still found this educational and encouraging.
At just 5'9 I was always nervous of stopping on steep cambers but I loved the bike. On my wife's suggestion I had my testicles surgically removed so I can now paddle it around the cafe car park in comfort.
lol!!
I have to agree, I have a 2019 GS Exclusive (standard height) with a comfort seat and I have a 29" inside leg. I found three things that helped me...changed the rubber bungs under the seat to lower it by about 5mm...Keep it on the lower suspension setting and have a decent pair of boots that have a thick sole. The rest is all down to confidence on the bike and that comes from use. I've had mine up mountain roads in Norway/Spain/Italy and Croatia.
Great job on the vid kate
really a respect for this GS ride!
I really enjoyed the video. Thank You
Glad you enjoyed it Lisa! 😊
WELL DONE KATE !!!
I WILL TRY A GS !!!
I wish this vid had been around 15 year ago when I got rid of my bike. Now I'm 50 I think I'm getting a bit long in the tooth to pretty much learn from scratch again. Brilliant vid btw.
Hi Kate you may remember I bought a gs1250 rallye low chassis the problem I had was reaching the side stand especially if the road was slightly lower on the right as it extends further forwards on a low bike so I fitted one off a standard height sa there the same length just doesn't go as far forward problem solved 👍 keep up the good work .
Really good video Kate.
Definitely a good topic and advice for the vertically challenged.
Proof that size doesn't really matter 🤔🙂
Grumps
Great video Kate. I’ve always had a confidence issue when riding tall adventure bikes being only 5’7”. I bought a full size GS and rode it for two years and had a few close calls almost dropping it but as you said if you think through things in advance it reduces your chances of having a mishap. The GS is incredibly nimble for such a big bike so once your moving you don’t notice the weight at all. About 18 months ago I decided to buy the low chassis XR and have to say it’s made a big difference confidence wise. I think if I were to do the GS thing over again I’d go for the low chassis just to make things a tad easier especially riding with a passenger.
I'm very interested myself in the XR (S1000). I sat on one in the showroom but found her too top-heavy for my 5 foot 6. How is the low-chassis one like? Did you test a regular height XR as well to have a comparison? Regards
@@carlosalonso9866 I did try the normal height XR and didn’t feel confident coming to a stop but the low chassis XR has been fantastic. I now have 17,000 miles on it and just about to do the valve check service at 18k and have no plans to trade it in, it’s the perfect bike in my opinion.
Great video. I love your confidence!! I agree it's all about the mindset.
I came late into biking (at 52) and I have a GS1200 low chassis. For me, its perfect even tho' I'm 5'7".
I have ridden a standard height one too and it was OK too but it's just the peace of mind for me to be able to flat foot it when needed. Yes , it's a heavy bike (tho not as heavy as my hubby's Tiger 1200) but it's low down weight which makes it easier to manoeuvre. When I ride a smaller bike (like the Striple or Z650), they feel tiny compared to mine and get back on my GS it's like getting in my old armchair again!! 🤣 If I ever chopped it in for something smaller/less heavy, it'll probably be something like a Z900 just for the fun factor!! 👍
Amazing! Loved reading your insights! Honestly TOTALLY get what you mean... I ride the comfy cloud then get on a naked bike and I feel like it's so small and it's nice to switch it up! The low down weight like you say is brilliant on the GS, can't fault it in that respect!
@@UsernameKate Thanks. I also prefer the upright position. I find my wrists ache on the bikes where I lean forward. I was really interested in a Striple but that slight lean forward didn't do it for me. I'd need bar risers. Tbh I also prefer a screen so not to be blown about by the wind!! We are all different with what works I guess.🤷♀️
Best tip I was given for taking a heavy bike off the side stand, was to get on the bike and turn the handle bars full to the right whilst on the side stand. The bike is as light as a feather and I can literally use my left thigh to get my bike up straight. Works every time…
Good for you, positive mental attitude.👍
Always try for one! haha
🤔good point, definitely a bit of mind over matter, great vlog 👍
Awesome video Kate. Jocelin Snow is only 5'1 1/2" and she makes it work. I commented in the other vid where you spun it around on the stand too - working smarter not harder. I was never a GS fan. I tried an older version and didn't like the noticeable pitch to the side when increasing revs at low speed or talking off from a standstill. I ride a 2016 Triumph Tiger Explorer XCA which I've had from new - and love it - but it really is heavy with a full tank at slow speed. I did test ride a new GS a couple of months ago and I absolutely loved it, even though I was convinced I wouldn't. It feels considerably lighter than my Triumph because of the weight being so much further down in the frame. And you're right of course - it's about the attitude. Tell yourself you can't do something and you make it so. Tell yourself you can and it'll happen. Keep this informative and engaging content coming.
Really liked this video. The bmw is really well balanced and my reason for buying the low suspension model was as follows. I used to ride a standard Ducati Multistrada and once my foot slid out on some single and I had to lower it to the floor. I also ride a triumph tiger 955i which has the same issues but is not worth as much. Combine the unsure footing issue with the 20k price tag and my decision was made.
That was a tall video ya made Kate.
Hope you had a good weekend and got some "swing it around" curves in too.
Thank you well explained. Ride on Safe
Another great vlog Kate looking forward to seeing your next one ride safe lovely only one username Kate with the swanky helmet and dark visor love it when you slam your visor down 👇😍
Thanks for the vid. I just tried a gsa which terrified me. Especially as a fell over stopping at a round about when it tilted too far over. Inspired to persevere with it.
Grate article it just shows you just have to think out the box,I'm 5.4" like but inseam is 3" less my GS is full hight with a low seat.
i have had a Ducati 1260s which i did 23k in 3 years!
I have always had standard bikes over the last 40 years
you just have to find what works for you and planning when you stops well done Kate
I went on an off road sesh in Wales and the (50 plus) Lady Guide was incredible. She couldn't get one foot down on a CRF 250 ! Every stop/start was a total one-side dismount. She made everything look easy. If you have the skills, I think anything is possible.
tbh I've been 6ft since the age of 15. I honestly never thought about the weight or seat height of any big bike....Learning to ride was the problem as from the cbt stage everything was too small ! Great video though. Perspective is always a good thing.
Hi Kate,
Hope your ok. ive just re watched this clip re short riders.
I paid for my T black this morning. but it was not ready for delivery. Im champing at the bit to get it and on it. Cannot wait. Your vid really helped.
Hi Kate, I've been wanting a GSA for a very long time, I literally just got mine and have only ridden it twice so far, I have the seat on the lower setting and suspension set on low, I'm 6 foot and still only just touch the ground on the balls of my feet, with the suspension in auto I'm literally on tip toes. It's sheer size is intimidating when you first stand next to it, but it's all about getting your confidence and learning some new techniques for man handling it, I've yet to master reversing it up over the ramped pavement, over the apex then onto my drive which drops steeply towards the garage, it was a big enough challenge with my sports bike half the weight of the GSA, it's early days but I will get there.
Excellent video - really hit home as I’m also a ‘shortie’ … and am often as discriminated against as any women riding a GS, even though I’m a male.
Two of the greatest (or most meaningful) compliments I’ve ever received were from my Dad watching me ride around, and the instructor at the BMW off-road academy I was on course with - it seems that ANY shortie that can master a GS is cause for astonishment! Great video!
Great video @usernamekate. Have you done or will you do a technique video on managing the GS, picking up a dropped bike etc.
I'll have to see if someone will let me drop their bike for that 🤣 maybe if I manage to do another offroad skills day, I'll try and record something 😊
Love the G S great video
It's quite comforting to hear that even you get off the bike and physically move it, I'm the same - my bike isn't heavy by any means but it is tall. My drive-way is really steep and I physically dont have the strength to push it up, the concrete strips are less than a meter wide but i've gotten to the point where I can confidently ride up. Before I was feathering the clutch and walking alongside, but i've found its easier just to yolo it up the ramp whilst sat on it XD. As for Uturns Im fairly confindent, but if the ground is dodgey I dont risk it, just get off and push it. I once did a uturn and my front wheel fell into a pot hole, as i said I'm lucky the bike isn't heavy so I managed to push it back up before it fully fell over, but I certainly wouldn't be doing slow manouvers where the road is bad XD
I've got my heart set on a GS after Xmas. I've just got some daytona boots in preparation. Added 2 inches to my 32 in seam. Cheaper than a low seat and surprisingly comfortable.
I am 6ft 3" so the height has never been an issue, but at 70plus years the weight is something to consider, but as you say, the weight is so well distributed on the GS, that it feels lighter and easier to ride than many bikes of less pounds on paper.
Great video thanks. Bless you.
I'm 5'7" with a 29 inside leg and am on my 3rd lowered GS. Originally I got the 1st one because SWMBO rode pillion, so being that bit closer to the ground really helped when coming to a stop. I could manage the full height demo bikes I test rode easily enough but the low one just works better for me. Coming to a stop just requires a bit of planning to decide which foot you're going to put down and if you dobthat you'll be fine. Getting on and off the bike is also easier if you put the bike's steering on full right lock as that lowers the seat and makes it far easier to lift the bike upright too. The lowered seat also has the effect of raising the bars so you sit a bit more upright which for me is a bit more comfy and it makes looking over my shoulder a bit easier too but you need to check that lowered seat doesn't make your knee angle uncomfortable. The other thing is the lowered bikes are always in demand and even though I traded both of my first 2 in during the winter both sold within a couple of weeks so dealers are always keen to take them off your hands. The other option for people to try are the Daytone M Star boors which are 25mm higher than a standard boot because of a raised insole inside the boot. The GS is perfect for shorties wanting a bike bike!
I agree with you. Im a short arse 5.5 and ride a factory low suspension and low seat which I think makes it about 790mm. I still struggled with confidence in the first few rides and was terrified of dropping her at traffic lights/junctions etc so bought the Daytona boots. Expensive but not compared to the expense/tears in dropping the bike. They helped me over the initial getting used to her period. As Kate says you just need to plan a bit when stopping, parking etc. Beautifully balanced bike.
I'd love a gs but I only have an inseam of 27 so it kind of puts me off getting one
G'day Kate. I have just subscribed to the channel and am a fellow shortarse (5' 5 1/2") and I have a slightly different challenge apart from the height and that is I have short legs and getting one over to sit on a bike from standing on the ground is nigh near impossible; so I utilise the footpeg and get on that way. It works for me and I know I have a limited time for my passion so it's cruiser time for me. The back is shot, 2 bung knees, a crook ankle and 4 heart attacks so I gotta do it easy hence cruiser time. Still wish I could ride the sports tourers but I have to be sensible in my old age hahaha
Agree 100% I have a full height GSA and im 5'5".. No problems at all ride on and off road...
Very inspiring video indeed. Good Luck
Thank you so much!
Great video Kate that will inspire more short riders to try a GS .I luckily found a 2013 low chassis GS with a low seat . It's true, that compared to you, I'm a weed, as I had 5mm added onto the soles of my Sidi boots. As I'm 5'6 the bike is great for my confidence,at age 63. .
you're an inspiration!!!
🙏
There's me as a new rider worried about the size and weight of my Honda VFR 800.. This video is very useful and informative, and I am now the boss of my bike, which I'm looking forward to riding very soon.
Enjoyed this content - cheers mate. Subs'd and will watch more as its uploaded.
You're an inspiration kate.👍
great vid! been seriously considering getting a new bike, and especially a gs, but always been concerned that it was too tall for me (i'm 5'6"). having seen this i'm definitely going to make the 100 mile round trip to my nearest bmw dealer the next chance i get! thanks :D
I love my low chassis 2022 triple black GS 😍
My favorite line is (Im the boss of this bike) Just love it. Great video!!
Great video Kate and perfect timing lol as I'm currently looking to change my Tiger 800xrx for the R1200GS TE 😃 problem I have now is GS TE, or the GS TE RALLYE or the GS TE ADVENTURE 🤔 I keep being drawn to the Adventure but it looks bloody massive 🤣
Haha you wont go wrong with any! I went GS because I personally didn't need the extra 100 mile range and prefer the GS because it feels less of a heffa haha
You show ‘em Kate!
Thank you, this gave me a little more confidence for for concidering a GS as a "shortass" haha
Definitely all about technique. My touring bike weighs in at 775 lbs and basically you have to show it who is the boss! Good topic 😎
hello, good morning, Kate, I just had to lower the footrests 2 cm and changed the handlebar post and that solves everything ok 👌👍 regards
I'm not tall, can just about get both toes down on my GS bit have to climb on via the footpeg rather than just swing a leg over. I'm not as young as I used to be so pushing it uphill is just a a no-no so I make sure I never have to.
I didn't think I'd keep it long as it's so big & heavy compared to my CBR600RR but I love the thing.
You should be planning your ride anyway so planning a way in to park front out making sure the back is downhill or getting off to push it in is a no brainer.
I'm amazed at how nimble it is once it's rolling and so long as I stop properly, ie planned and ready to put a foot down, then there's never a problem. Sure, it's caught me out a couple of times and I've had to pick it up but, as you so wisely say, technique makes up for a lack of size & muscle.
Very good advice here. 👍
I'm a short arse (5ft 5, maybe 5ft 6 if I stood up tall and a 29 inch inside leg) and ride a KTM Adventure with a 850mm seat and ride MX bikes, as well as other borrowed ADV bikes. My bike is not heavy, around 210kg fully fuelled but I ride it daily through central London and as you say Kate, you just make it work. Us shorties have had to make it work forever. The only bike I couldn't ride from the box was a Harley Night Rod because the owner had specced forward controls. I just couldn't reach them. Great video.
Hi Kate, it is an interesting topic, I have been lucky enough to own three new GSA's that in normal guise are almost two inches taller than a standard GS. For me being a 65-year-old male, at 5.10 tall and a 32 inseam, I have had two full height GSA's, and my latest on a lowered chassis, I do find the latter easier to manage on the rough stuff.