2017 BMW R1200RS Review
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- Опубліковано 2 жов 2024
- This is my review of the BMW R1200R which I was lucky enough to borrow for an extended period recently thanks to the kind folks at Bahnstormer in Maidenhead. The R1200RS is similar to the boxer powered naked R1200R but with an additional fairing to give a little more weather protection, together with a slightly sportier riding position - firmly placing this machine in the "Sport Touring" category...but how does it compare to the similarly powered BMW RT and GS??
I use the following equipment to record and edit my VLOGs:-
GoPro HD Hero 2 and 4 cameras
Nikon D7100 DSLR for static and video shots with various lenses
Lavalier microphone and sellotape for in helmet audio - £9 from E-Bay
Power Director 8 for the PC (for video editing)
Lavalier microphone for in garage audio - £20 E-Bay
My current motorcyles are:-
Honda CRF250L
Triumph Street Triple R
BMW R1200GS
Ducati 899 Panigale
For any additional enquiries please send a PM or leave a comment below... - Розваги
The rs is the bike 90% of people who buy the gs should actually buy.
I agree!! Most people buy a GS to “go of road” and they actually ended up spending 99.9% of all their riding time on the road and hwy through traffic 🤷🏻♂️
1:20 We can certainly see the self canceling turn signals work :)
I had to swipe back to check if it was manually cancelled.
Had mine since last August and just love it!
Good stuff - thanks for watching - TMF
I swapped my GS in for an RS. I found the GS too tall. Did just under 3000 miles to Northern Italy and back in June/July. It was pretty hellish as the temperatures were up to 38C. Quick shift and cruise control made life so much better. I love it.
@@jeremiahnilsson7373 same here. I bought a 2018 RS in White/Red frame even with the new 1250RS on the horizon. I absolutely love the RS. And she is pretty rare on the streets :-)
I'm now looking to do the same.
I find my GSA too heavy, i can't completely flat foot the machine which doesn't give me enough confidence with being a newer rider.
So currently in the process of selling my GSA to then either fund a 1200R or 1200RS. I need to get on them both. Plus, all these big GS's never get taken off road 😂. I think 95% of UK GS riders are on the wrong bike...
Sounds like a great all rounder if you could only have the one bike!! Love the looks of it to! As usual a great video and very interesting!! Nice job 👌
Thank you sir!
Very Nice, Comprehensive & Straightforward Review - Thanks !! :)
Thanks for watching and for stopping by! All the best - TMF
Good review, I own a 2016 RS in the classy granite grey colour. Couple of points: Like you I am 5' 8" with regard to the wind protection I found with the screen in the raised position you had on the ride I got some turbulence around the helmet, but with the screen in the lower position I got good body protection but my helmet (Schuberth C3 Pro) was in clean air and gave quieter ride. I just did a tour round the west coast of Scotland and the bike excels on all types of roads. You can really hustle this bike along through the fast twisty roads too !! I think this is a very underrated bike, in my opinion it is the best all round bike available right now and the gear shift assist is outstanding once you get used to using it. If you hold the throttle open on up shifts and close the throttle on down shifts it's super slick. I only use the clutch to engage first gear and shift to second, from then on up the box it's slick clutch less and coming down the box you can come right down to first clutch less just pulling the clutch in as you stop. Re riding position I have bar risers fitted which don't affect the handling characteristics but do take some weight off my wrists and improve the riding position for my dodgy back. Love this bike and it's a keeper, I don't see anything else on the market that would tempt me to trade it !! I would only see the need to trade up to the RT if I was doing regular 2 up touring, for solo touring and occasional 2 up touring it's perfect.
+John Siddons Great stuff John, glad you're enjoying the bike, clearly you made exactly the right choice for the riding you do. Thanks for watching - TMF
Hi, did bar risers require any change of cables ?
Cracking review and cracking bike - I believe you're due to do the naked version as well? (Like mine!) If so look forward to it. I was impressed with the the iPhone special effects bit - I really must get up to speed with new technology - I understand cars come fitted with cassette tape players these days ;-) ?? Jon.
Thanks Jon - I haven't got any firm plans to ride the R1200R (naked) version but if I get the opportunity I certainly would like too...so it's on the list for sure. Cassette's?? I actually got some Vinyl (an LP) at Christmas!
Great review , next time ur trying a BMW out try a BMW r1200r & see what u think of it , I went for a 2016 one with most of the extras , really happy with it also , great power , handling , braking & comfort , a great all round bike , cheers
Yes that's one on the list for sure, Aldo the very helpful sales guy I deal with at the BMW dealer, reckons that is a brilliant machine and tried to get me to ride that instead of this...so must go back and give that a go if he'll let me :0) Cheers - TMF
great video
the bike looks really nice
happy new year everybody
cheers Tom
...and to you Thomas!
one of the best vlogs I've seen !told me everything I need to know ,good job mate.
Thank you very much Craig - very kind of you to say so and thanks for watching - TMF
Have had my rs since 2015 love it.
Good man - first in with a comment too...sure you watched it all? I'm thinking 19 minute video, published 7 minutes ago??????? :0)
Great looking bike that would probably tick a lot of boxes for sport touring types like me. Might be one to consider in future. Shame the GS style side and top case mountings aren't a bit more integrated and discreet because it certainly looks sporty when not kitted up for touring.
Yes agreed - and they are (if they are GSesque at all) GSA style case mountings, my "standard" GS has no such scaffolding! :0) Thanks for watching - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer oops! I meant the adventure of course 😉
No problem... ;o)
Much better looking than the new 1250 I think. Dilemmas...
Great review, I have had my RS since June 16 and absolutely love it. I was interested in your comments about the gearbox. Once warm mine goes into gear with a real clang and is quite clunky in the first 3 gears after that the box is a real delight. Being a bit longer than you at 6ft I have noticed that to me the wind noise is slightly less with the screen down. But over a distance at higher speeds it strains my neck. In the upper position I found I could duck to a position out of the wind but not a practical position to ride in so yes maybe a deflector is the answer. Other than that I can't fault the bike. Keep the reviews coming, they are very good.
Thank you very much KirkyandKa, appreciate the kind words and glad we concur! All the best - TMF
Mine is super clunky, too. There's also quite a bit of vibration through the pegs and seat. The thing goes like the clappers, though, and it feels SO light to me after my Deauville - weird that it's actually heavier but the fact that it carries its weight low down makes it seem light as a feather by comparison. Just two days in to ownership, but I'm really not sure if I'm going to keep it, actually. Might have to test ride a Honda CB1100!
I've got one now! 😁 What a great machine! 🥰 2017 model. After having three honda bikes (including two vfr800) this is such a change! In a positive way!
Thinking of moving from my VFR750 FV (1997) to this one and have been on the fence about it so far. So glad to see this comment.
@@nijils glad you have found this useful. As much as I loved my Vfr800, I have to say that r1200rs is far more nicer to ride. Everytime I ride it I love it more and more! The only word of advice is... if you can afford get the model with tft screen, as the one I've got is OK, but it's very difficult to see the numbers on the analog dash. Other than that... close to perfection for me.
Brilliant bike. Treat it as a tourer and it's happy. Play boy racer and chuck it hard into turns, redline it out of turns and it is a delight. It's the ultimate sleeper. My chicken strips are gone. So underestimated.
So is that 70 kmh or 70 mph? Power where you need it with shaft drive. Never had traction control- make a difference?
Very good bike and a great review as per. It can't pick up that well though coz you got left by that Caddy on the slip road??!! Ha
Hehe, fair enough!
another great vid. I quite like your reviews. yesterday I test rode the RS and the GS back to back. I preferred the RS as I'm quite small. also the GS didn't seem as stable at slow speeds probably due to higher centre of gravity? The extra performance of the RS was great. it's a shame you can't get those engine tweaks on the GS. My heart says RS, my head says a lowered GS. have you tried a lowered one?
Yes I have, and it really was surprisingly low! I ended up getting the standard height with the lowered seat which suits my 5'8" a treat. Thanks for the kind words - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer thanks for all the info. I went for the RS in the end. my heart won the battle!
I had the 2015 naked version R1200R fully kitted out for my commute from SE Kent into London. The naked is supposedly lighter and more nimble than the RS but I found it very heavy, spongy in corners (even on the hard suspension setting) and far to big for London filtering. The electronics etc were great, definitely a good bike for anyone who spends many hours in the saddle. But i changed jobs and sold it a couple of months ago for a 2013 Street Triple R... and omg what a machine. So light and nimble, doesn't have the electronics or that incredible boxer torque but definitely more "me".
Anyhoo, great review as always fella.
PS
Would love to know what you make of the new G310 is it?
+Bobby Fett Well I am of course biased having been a Street Triple R owner since 2012....I love those machines, a very different ride to any BMW boxer, but then designed for a different type of use. ....and yes, if I get the chance, would love a go on the new smaller Beemer...stay tuned! Thanks for watching, all the best - TMF
Nice review once again TMF. Mate of mine recently got the RS (I have a GS) and he has had a few challenges with a clunky gearbox. BMW says that's normal and let it run in a bit more. We will see. Also looking forward to the Sena review......I have the 10C model (with the camera). Very multifunctional but difficult to remember commands when riding . Works nice with BMW Nav 5. Consider checking out the remote Bluetooth control option for handlebars. Cheers
Hi Grant - Interesting, I found that RS gearbox as slick as you like! Maybe it does need running in a bit (assuming it's a new bike). Yes loving the Sena intercom, just uploaded the video as it happens and will be publishing this evening around 7pm...stay tuned!
Thanks for the review.
As I said in my comments on the R1200R review, I own a GS and a RT. I was fortunate, like you, to spend a whole day on an RS.
I really, really wanted to like the bike. It is the best looking of the current boxers, for sure. You are spot on re the donk and gearbox - really good.
Alas, it handles like a barge. My RT eats it in the handling stakes. The problem is the rake - the RS front end is raked out further than the RT, and it shows...you really have to muscle it around.
I also really didn't like the ergos. The bars are a tad too far forward for my liking - of course, this is easily fixed.
Overall, the RS was a disappointment. It is neither Arthur nor Martha - it reminded me of the Honda VFR1200 - too heavy and slow steering to be sporty, and yet the forward ergos and wind blast spoil the touring aspect.
The RT is a far better tourer and the R is a far better all rounder....
Fair enough - I have to admit I like the feeling of stability that the rake and trail on this bike gives you, but given the choice between this and the RT, I'd go with the RT too I reckon. Thanks for watching - TMF
Position ... Too forward. Some people are installing the R 1200 R handlebar for a much better position. Also poor wind protection with standart screen. Cheers
I quite liked the position, but then I am used to riding my Panigale which is more extreme of course. Agree on the windscreen front, although I didn't find the air off the standard screen to be turbulent, and that's always a good thing...cheers for watching - TMF
Just came across this video, and it's another great TMF review, although I'm beginning to suspect that our intrepid reviewer has a contract with local white van drivers to be in front of him so he can show the bike's acceleration while overtaking them! :P
Of all the big Beemers, this one actually seems the most pleasant in terms of riding quality.
Thanks for the kind comments!
Nice bike.....................................If only it had a 5 litre bigger fuel tank. Bummer!
They need to bring out an "Adventure" version!
I've still got my 2017 RS SE and agree with your test, despite watching many of your updates since the Japan trip I never realised you had tested the RS. No problems with the RS and bmw back-up - including a complete, free to me, warranty update with a new shaft drive, bevel uinit with all the fittings this year. Probably why I am now in to 20 years of R1200's of various models. It is my 'keeper' and all day comfortable with the taller sports seat, 65mpg easy on tour when loaded.
Nice one!
Great review as all of your reviews are. Very real world and helpful. I really enjoyed the test ride i had on an RS and if the pennies allowed would buy one. Felt very quick and characterful. So its back on the trusty blackbird for now, maybe one day!
Thank you Geoff - glad you found my little review of interest....I'm sure the RS will be yours one day! All the best - TMF
really like this BMW just need a lottery win LOL
That's a pretty bike, probably out of my price range. BMW. Bloody More Wonger.
hehe, yeah you're right there unfortunately....
Good review, why do BMW feel the need for so many tourers/sports tourers...
They are king of that niche and want to exploit their success maybe? Could say the think about KTM and adventure bikes, Triumph and retro, etc, etc...
Very nice from bmw
This bike looks so cool. can't be compared to any other brand of motorcycle. looks hi-tech.
Yet it inherited the looks of the original the 1993 R1100RS, the fairing, the seat, the first time i heard that there where newer version as wel.
I just bought a used one, but it didn’t come with the gps but with the base, could anyone here help me find the proper model that is meant for that base ? I’ve heard that is a garmin gps but I have no idea. Would appreciate help on this aspect ! Thanks 🙏🏼
The BMW nav 5 or 6 should fit/work
You should not overtake on the zig zag lines on a crossing, thumbs down for that, otherwise good review.
Indeed - my bad....
Nice review, shit roads
Yea great bike I've had mine now for over a year and love it.
Great stuff Bob, and lovely bike! All the best - TMF
Enjoyable review again, better than the guys who appear to being paid full time to do these things. Would you consider doing new bike launches if asked along by the manufacturers?
Thanks BanditmanUK, err, yeah I guess I would do new bike launches provided it didn't end up costing me to do them - I enjoy making videos and responding to comments and that all takes quite a bit of my time (which I'm happy to give as it's fun)....but if it meant going away, paying for flights/hotels etc then I simply couldn't do it of course.
Looking to get one of those but I'm 6.1f so probably too tall for it
nice to see the post office van keeping death of the roads by driving on the pavement! another good review Mr Flyer
hehe - thanks... :0)
Should drive in Slovenija
Great review as usual. I owned an R1200 R for 8 months and put 10,000 miles on it before trading it in for the Tuono. I guess I wasn't quite ready for the sport tourer yet. I did add an SC Project exhaust which sounded amazing and I highly recommend!
How are you getting on with the Tuono? I love the look of those things.....
TheMissendenFlyer I love the Tuono Factory! I purchased it in August and have put 7,000 miles on it so far. I'm getting about 170 miles on a full tank so not bad for touring. Pretty much ticks all the boxes for me. The engine sound with stock exhaust is like a Moto GP bike, I don't know how they get away with it!!! You must add it to your list of bikes to review or just wait until you come to Austin Texas and you can ride mine.
Now that would be fun!
@@pistolpete6321 the Tuono isnt any way near a touring bike, its simply a very cool, hot track bike. Have ridden it extensively and ende up at the BMW R1200RS now..the RS is the final solution of all worlds to no extreme in detail.
Chris Vodka you’re entitled to your opinion of course but I’ve done 600 miles in a day on the Tuono and an 1,800 mile trip as well and loved every minute! You can tour on anything it’s just about mind set.
This bike confuses me, same engine as the RT and GS but doesn't tour as well, same price as the XR which is faster, more expensive than the S1000R which is faster. So BMW already make all the bikes that out perform this one? Strange!
+Lee McDonald Putting it like that, I tend to agree!
Thinking of going back to a bmw after a few years off my GSA onto sports bikes. Seems a great compromise with touring ability.
Agreed!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Now bought a 2018 model. I'm the same height as you but couldn't get on with the squidgy sport seat or forward bars as it resulted in lower back ache after 40 minutes on the bike. Changed the seat to a Wunderlicht Aktiv comfort standard height seat, fitted Heli bar risers and and MRA vario screen and now it's nigh on perfect. Torque is immense from any revs. Gearbox does tend to clunk into first but is fine after that, Handling is astonishing for a bike of this weight, it's utterly planted at any speed. 1250 is smoother and more gutsy but real world this is as much bike as anyone could want. Overtakes are a breeze, and winding on from 3rd gear you reach high speeds way more rapidly than expected to need to keep a check on the speedo. I hear what others say about the dash but it does have three different settings so you can have it clutter free and use the Nav5 or Nav6 for the other engine data. Satnav cradle is in a poor location so I may relocate higher and more forward as on the GS. The one thing letting it down are the lights. They're worse than useless and too low to be of much use. You really would benefit from adding spot lamps for night time use
The 1200 is something of a bargain compared with the 1250. You can buy a low miles 2017 or 2018 model with all the toys in top Sport SE trim for under 10K if you look about. Privately you can find them for closer to £8K. They'll be out of warranty but are such a reliable motor that doesn't matter to me. Intermediate DIY servicing is a doddle and cheap and what you save can go towards the 12K interval service at a dealers. Mine came with BMW panniers and I've added a Shad 48 litre top box so all ready for touring but I tend to leave them off for most rides. If you want one bike that does it all, can compromise on the dash and the immaterial power difference between the new one, the RS will do everything most people buy either the bulky RT for or the ubiquitous GS, but imho, it's quicker and handles better than the GS. It's a real sleeper and deserves to be far more popular than it is.
I had the 1150RS
Nice machine
Lovely machine. Really like these sports tourers machine. Will be interesting if the RT version of the Street Triple will appear next week. Really would be interested in that. Would you be interested in having a go on the KTM Super Duke GT if you have any dealers with one down where you live?
Yes would love to - I keep meaning to make contact with the local KTM dealer (in Hemel Hempstead) to see if they would let me take a bike or two out...must do that sometime as I only hear good things about KTMs but am yet to ride one....
Hi there, I'm looking for that allaround machine.
To be honest this one is on the list (just like many others).
To be honest I am looking for something to be my daily rider, ocasionally 2 up but maybe longer 2 up travels. I read that the bar raisers take the weight off the wrists, but I'd have to see if I would need it or not.
Now what I am wondering is how the bike fares compared to the likes of the older multistrada 1200s? Or maybe the Caponord 1200. Specially since this last one is probably the closest competitor in terms of form and power. The multistrada is another story but I am interested in your point of view.
I have to say that, like many others, I follow your videos closely and I enjoy them very much. Getting your point of view helps many of us understand the pros and cons of bikes, especially since we might not get to try them. So thank you very much for your service! Cheers
My pleasure! Thanks for watching!
You should try the R1200R too, it steers more quickly than the RS. I find the angle of the "clip on" style bars of the RS uncomfortable on a long ride. My local dealer says that many RS owners change the RS two piece bars for the conventional bars from the R, they both fit in the same bar clamps. There's a good comparison of all the boxer twins (in English) on the German 1000PS TV UA-cam channel ua-cam.com/video/91FdEr3ML34/v-deo.html
Funny you should say that Simoncelli 58 - I am due to ride the R1200R next week (and a video will of course follow soon after :0).....
Hi MF, I am an avid follower of your reviews, informative and honest. So tomorrow the day of judgment comes, this bike over the GS TE. I guess your answer would be the GS but is that really just for cosmetic looks (as you have stated somewhere in your comments)? Is it simply that? My views are the RS will not hold up as well 2nd hand price wise and still unsure if its established its-self sufficiently in the BMW range. If you do get the chance to respond I would appreciate your comments. My two friends who have GS's say there is no question to answer but they are biased beyond words..
+Dean Toon Well I agree Dean, Id be with your mates and take the GS, I too am biased of course....I reckon you're right about residuals too. Both great machines though, go with your heart id say....
I took the RS for a test before I ended up buying the GS. At my age I didn't enjoy the forward seating position, let's just say I wasn't nuts about it. In australia you inevitability travel vast distances even during short trips, and I opted for the upright position. I also previously owned a R1200R and in my h opinion you can take any beemer boxer off road (light gravel roads), something I enjoy doing as these side roads have stunning views and scenery. Thanks for the review. I think the RS is a good choice for those who don't suffer the ailing body knock I have, so my choice is with me trusty GS. Btw, upright is imho better also for commuting (better vision ahead). Happy new year TMFlyer.
Thanks Jacob - and entirely with you on that, if you need to go off-road occasionally then the GS is the one for sure - HNY to you too - TMF
Hi MF Nice bike and considered but she is no match for the GS or the RT but as you say nothing bad. Be interested for you to compare the KTM Super Adventure against the GS. Have you done the Ducati Multistrada as can't remember, but again if not a comparison of those against the GS would be good. Happy new year mate
Thanks Paul- yes I have ridden the Multistrada ( ua-cam.com/video/HSvl1B7aK-o/v-deo.html&list=PL_719tkJvufay_QbLW4ssfL-5qBDJTjml&index=17 ) although not the latest incarnation, I've yet to ride any KTM - I must put that right sometime soon! HNY to you too! Cheers - TMF
Great review! Met you at the ABR last year! Love seeing the local routes, cookham, wycombe, Beaconsfield and Amersham! Definitely want a R1200RS now!
You should have been at ABR this year - it was brill!!
It's a beautiful bike. We came very very close to buying one of these but ended up getting the XR. We just felt the XR was better 2 up
...not to mention the performance of the XR - the boxer in the RS provides a completely different experience to that 4 pot howler in the XR (which as you now know is a speed machine!)...I love the low centre of gravity of the boxer bikes, but if they put the 4 cylinder lump into a GS frame I'd be down the dealers tomorrow ;0) Happy New Year to you two....looking forward to following your further adventures this year - make the most of Summer!
You get to have all the fun TMF, I've been in B&Q buying house plants today :-o Where am I going wrong?! This bike isn't my cup of tea but interesting review, Thanks.
What makes you think this was today DM ;0)
You and your special effects ;-)
hehe - I wish they were that sophisticated!
No rear hugger on an £11k+ bike grrrrr !! Lovely bike though and something I would consider when I get fed up with the big V.
...luckily they are fairly cheap to add but I'm entirely with you Fenner-G
I have a 2015 R1200R sport & coming from a 2013 GS. The heavier flywheel & airbox changes make a difference to the pickup of the engine, I my still go back to a GS
Yes the new GS' had that same silky smooth engine and gearbox, I guess it depends on styling mainly and which appeals more (+ cost may be a factor of course)...thanks for watching - TMF
Looks like an XR with shaftdrive and boxer engine, btw the headlights on the XR looks just like these, symetrical outer cover with unsymetrical reflectors inside.
Tested a r1200r it had VERY good low down torque.
Yes you are right about the front end looks - those non-symmetrical lights would worry me....thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF
Hi, I was wondering if you have tested the BMW K1300R/S and how you would compare it to the R1200R/RS and the S1000R. It is supposed to be a very powerful and stable bike but I´m discouraged about the old elecronics and the mixed reliability of the K engines. I wonder why BMW hasn´t updated that line. Cheers!
+ROKUGAN No I've never ridden any K series bike unfortunately...would like to though! Thanks for watching - TMF
Two questions. You say the RS has more low down pull than the GS, but are the gear ratios the same, particularly revs to speed in top gear?
Having tested both bikes now, in your previews, which do you prefer, with the riding you do?
The gear ratios could well be different - I prefer my GS for now...thanks for watching!
The RS series have always been among the best mile burners on the road. Had an R 1100RS and ran from Scranton, Pa to Montreal in 7 hours with a passenger and luggage. Japanese Speed-How fast can I get to 150mph? American Speed-How fast can I turn this horsepower into noise? German Speed-How fast can I get from Boston to Kansas City?
+will Buffton :0)
I didn't know this existed actually. Looks a lot like the GS but a little more road oriented (not that the GS isn't any good on the road. Might just be my favourite beemer now. Great video!
Thanks Matt...and yes, this bike doesn't seem to get much coverage these days, it had a bit at the launch but tends to get forgotten about (I guess because it's not seen as particularly glamourous or cutting edge, but it is very practical in the real world)...
Nice to see the review of the R1200RS. Mine is the 2016 model with the clunky 1st gear, but its now done just over 10,000miles, the majority of which is commuting in and out of London from Braintree (105miles ) Must say it just eats up the miles on the M11 & A406 and is great in town going through traffic at slow speeds. Very maneuverable and hugs the corners nicely. Had to change the standard seat recently due to my previous back injury (bike accident) and has now been recovered and slightly re-styled with gel inserts making it very supportive and comfortable ( courtesy of CM Seats of Coventry) All in all i'm very happy with it. Happy New Year.
Thanks Michael - Happy New Year to you...thanks for stopping by!
I love this bike. Especially the upcoming 2019 model with the TFT display and the new Boxer 1250. The motor and the shaft-drive are my favorite things about these BMW motorcycles. Gorgeous looking bike and what a great sounding engine!
I don't think the figures tell the full story of a Boxer engine. It's the low down grunt where they really shine. Top gear roll ons or firing it between bends, this motor has the ability to instantly shine without having to spool up, It's a gem. I could honestly pick this or a Superduke, they are both very strong in their own way.
I agree 100% - not to mention the very useful to handling low centre of gravity...
They totally dropped the ball with that hard to read analog speedo. It struck me too how much rake that thing had compared to the air cooled Generation. Specially noticeable from the side view. Now that's gone i miss the wonky telelever front suspension. 😞
Yeah there's a lot to be said for the funny BMW suspension - I love the lack of fork dive on the GS for example...
I test rode one last year before opting for the GS. After a go on the Triumph 800XRx and Explorer the RS's engine braking was a relevation for 3rd and 4th gear overtakes and convinced me the boxer was the way to go for me. Unfortunately the better half didn't like the pillion as being short I was quite a bit lower down than she was so I had to have the GS instead. shame! I think in general they've ironed out quite a few of the issues the older bikes had MF inc a smoother engine box and clutch but I'll have to wait a bit before I change. Nice review as always. Cheers Ade
Cheers Ade - actually I prefer the GS, but that's only down to looks (I just prefer the more rugged styling of the GS)...can't really go wrong with either can you! - TMF
I wondered why you don't use top (6th) gear even at high 70s or even 80 on fast roads? Is there a problem with top gear?
Nope...
Hello. I have a question about the "automatic gear". Is it true that you don't need to use the clutch lever? thanks Very nice video !
Yes, it' not really an automatic as you will stall the machine of you come to a halt and you still physically have to engage the gear...but the clutch lever is largely optional with a quick shifter...
Excellent review. I'm still deliberating on which bike to return to biking on. I've narrowed it down to an RS or GS but can't decide on which would be best for me. Being shorter than you the GS is only just about manageable with a low seat, the RS does fit me better. I'd go as far as saying the RS probably felt a much more natural ride to me, but I cant put my finger on why. It's only real downsides seem to be there's an improved bike on the horizon, the noisy screen and the dash is inferior to the GS, particularly with the TFT screen. Having said that the RS is considerably cheaper and should be able to do everything the GS can (on the road that is). I know you're a GS boy but in your experience is the GS a significantly better bike and worth the extra cash? I got the impression from your review that it didn't really impress or excite you, perhaps a little bland? Cheers Andy
Correct - I prefer the GS but it's purely subjective - the RS is a fine bit of kit!
Very accurate review - every word agreed on, compared to my 2016 RS. Now going for a ride, thanks to your video! :)
Thanks GG - so glad we agree!
Thanks for this very informative video. This is indeed a very good bike, but I still wonder why BMW came up with this, alongside the RT and the GS. I wonder what the RS has to offer that the GS or the RT do not offer. Perhaps only a cheaper price ? On top of that, the S1000XR is another fairly attractive bike in this segment of touring/sporty bikes. I would be interested to learn how successful the RS is in terms of sales.
Yes I tend to agree - BMW certainly seem to have the sport/tourer market covered! I guess each of those bikes cover a sort of sub-niche but you are right, a lot of bike models seemingly doing a similar job (albeit it each quite different).....
Hi there! I really would like your opinion on the moto guzzi stelvio. Is there a chance you'll make a video on it?
Sadly I don't have access to Moto Guzzi's at this time....sorry about that!
Looking for a comparison/ opinions between this and the Kawasaki Z1000SX
Good video, i ride the R1150R and the RS could very well be my next bike. Oh and you have earned a follower :-)
Great stuff Rob - welcome along!
Hi MF. Really enjoy your vids, great commentary, smooth riding and honest evaluations. in fact i bought an RS now and agree with all you've said. Unfortunately im off work with an eye wound and cant see out of it so cant ride! That means you need to keep the vids coming to keep me occupied while im off for the net few weeks. I've watched most of them already!! Cheers
Sorry to hear of your woes - plenty more videos to come, stay tuned!
Hi TMF, I nearly purchased this bike in July 2015, but I was put off by the gearbox. I bought a new Speed Triple R instead.
You're right about the handling though; it was fantastic!
..they've certainly fixed the gearbox now so may be worth another look if it's time for a change? Nowhere near as fast (or let's face it cool) as A Speed Triple mind you....thanks for watching - TMF
HaHa Found them 😁
thinkin about the r 9 t but then heres the rs torn i am
I used to have an R1100S. Would this be its successor?
I guess so yes.....
I forgot what your preference was between the RS and R or at least observations.
+Carmelo Santini I've forgotten too!
Your review is balanced, fair and descriptive enough to have a introduction to the bike. I ended up buying mine in August 2017. It is the exact model you tested.
Lots of comments about why this bike. My reasons are better weight to horse power ratio the the RT and the K1600. I traded in a 2009 K1300 GT. This bike handles in the corners extremely well, stable and quick. The power is “real world” in terms of plenty of it all through the rev range. In fact it is deceptively quick- catching my self going faster than I thought I was going.
I have over 3000 km on it and love it more ever time I take it out. A very solid, well built sport tourer.
Your video helped me get interested in riding this bike. Thanks.
Great stuff, thanks for the kind words Reg and glad the bike is living up to expectations! All the best - TMF
I just took delivery of one of these. Very surprised by the riding position, which is far more forward leaning than I had anticipated. Engine also goes Ker...lunk in first gear. Is that normal with these boxer engines? Other than that, I think I might enjoy this quite a bit. It flies compared with my previous bike (NT700), feels way lighter even though it's heavier, and it handles effortlessly. It's also extremely easy/forgiving at very low speeds etc. Overall, quite happy so far but that engine klunk does sound a bit weird.
Hello! I actually had an RT for a short period that was also clunky in 1st and 2nd gear but the GS I then have wasn’t clunky… what year is your RS? I’m getting nervous now, I’m trading my GS next week for a 22’ RS, hope it’s not clunky! 🙏
…and I’m also nervous about the forward riding position! I’ll find out next week, lol
Good looking bit of kit. Front end pleasant looking for a BMW. I like the tear drop mirrors. You looked comfortable on it. Doesn't look too bulky, considering it isn't a small bike. The engine figures torque wise sound impressive. You seemed impressed by the performance too.
It seems very close all-round to an XR, bar the boxer engine and shaft drive. Without looking I'm guessing the XR is faster. So much choice from BMW these days that their bike models are eating into each others markets. Great bike, but do you buy this or perhaps half a dozen other BMW's that do what this does, perhaps better in some areas too. Great to have that dilemma I guess.
Thanks TMF.
Yeah it is a tricky one isn't it! ...and yes the XR is much quicker, the RS is just swift for a boxer powered machine - you can't really go wrong with any of these modern Beemers can you.... (R9T Scrambler with knobbly tyres excepted!).
Hmmmmmm. A real contender for my next long distance bike. I used to have a KTM 990SMT that this could be a useful replacement for.
A bit of me thinks that something a bit less flash and nickable has a definite advantage when touring through Europe though. Kawa 1000SX might fit the bill. Have you ever tried one? I note you're more of a European bike kinda guy. The SX should have similar talents, perhaps without me caring quite so much about scratching it, dropping it, having it nicked...
Well I haven't ridden an SX and the reviews of the latest variant I have read are good - so probably worth a go. I have a feeling it will be substantially heavier in feel due the higher COG though and the electronics package will be nowhere near as sophisticated - GPS for example (and you're right, I am biased towards European bikes for some reason).....
TheMissendenFlyer The weight might well put me off. The electronics would be nice, but I guess 'you pays your money, and you takes your chance'..
I'll give both a try this year and see. I've toured a bit on the 899 with SW-Motech fabric panniers and it was great; a weekend on the IOM and the full NC500 in Scotland, no trouble at all, but I do miss that KTM.... 🤓
Useful review thanks - look after your licence though, we need you to do more !
I test rode this today. Didn't quite feel like what I had hoped after watching this video. Suspension in dynamic mode felt a bit wobbly, cluster looked busy, throttle and shifter felt gummy, but it fit me very well and would serve its purpose as a commuter. CBR600rr has really spoiled me with its smoothness and crisp controls
+korewest Yes, a very different bike to a 4 cylinder machine of course....so what are you going to try next?
I tried the R nine T as well and absolutely loved it - which is odd because it is a more dramatic version of the RS. The characteristics of a boxer felt more "right" being aircooled and housed in the beauty of the nine T. I can live without the creature comforts of the RS for now.. Stay tuned :]
I think this may be my next bike in 2 years unless BMW comes out with something better.
Outside of the the goofy looking asymmetrical lights, it's a really nice bike.
Yes I agree, and that applies to so many BMW's too, all really nice bikes but that asymmetric front end just doesn't do it for me....
You were riding on my commute route from Maidenhead --> Bourne End - i work in Loudwater
Quite a nice ride to start the day!
the biggest issues to me were, lots of dive under breaking, lean forward sitting position, and top heavy. all critics against the GS of course.
Crikey - I would have to disagree with those criticisms aimed at the GS - it has no front dive at all (due the funny BMW tele/paralever suspension), and a very low COG due the flat boxer layout and certainly a very upright seating position!! Don't want to be rude but you are wholly wrong on all points (aimed at the GS).....thanks for watching anyway - all the best - TMF
+TheMissendenFlyer I think my comment was misunderstood. I meant GS has those attributes over the RS.
Aha - in that case I agree 100%!! :0)
Great video! Did you find the seating position to be similar to the R1200R or more aggressive?
Very similar, not aggressive at all. Thanks for watching - TMF
I own a 2016 R1200RS.
This is a really amazing moto. Missenden's review is spot on.
+1angry5 Thank you :0)
Very nice - really *REALLY* like the styling done on that bike. Looks are a winner!! Nice review.
+Scott Peterson Thank you Scott (as ever!)
how tall are you by the way - a friend of mine whos about 6 foot has had to get a givi screen
I'm only a relative shorty at 5'8" - definitely need a taller screen if you're a 6 foot giant.....
Another great review and a great looking bike, wouldn't mind a test ride on one of these myself !
Keep them coming sir
Thanks Jetskicentral - it's a nice machine, well worth a go on one if you're in the market?
" Hop the twig " ? I sold my RS and got the R1200R , it's more comfortable .
Cool person speak for "goes fast" :0) ...although my teenage kids may not agree on the "cool" bit.....
The rear shocker wont last long - should come with a hugger.
Hi mate, I took a test ride of this machine and agree to all your remarks... excellent review and watching this video realised you were in my part of the woods!
Where are you then Lijo?
Maidenhead ... if you're local you'd have noticed a Triumph Bonnie with black emgo fairing on it !! That's me !!
Stuck between buying a 16 Rs or 16 fjr.... Heeellpppp 😅
Another good review. Until I saw this bike in the flesh a few months back I was convinced my next bike would be either a BMW S1000XR (if my heart won), or a GS if my head prevailed! However, every time I see this bike I'm drawn to it, and this review has only strengthened my thoughts around owning one...guess I have some interesting test rides to do in the new year!
Yes good luck with that Phil - to be fair, whichever you choose (and they are all quite different machines, but with huge similarities!) you can't really go wrong with either of them all, I'd happily live with any of those three...
what did you go for eventualy Phil?