I’ve had 4 BMW GSAs and done over 200000 klms around Australia over the years in extreme environments. Never broken down or had any major issues because the bikes were well maintained and not abused. We are all different, do different types of “adventures” and require different “tools”. Even though everyone has their preferences I would never criticise someone else’s choice of motorcycle.
I have been to Australia, including the Outback. "extreme environments" means different to different people. Never say any bad words or criticize someone's choice!
@@erkful I have a 1250R - not GS and really like the keyless option. I put the electronic key in the inner (zip) pocket on my jacket and never touch it on a ride. I never have any worry about losing keys. I am not sure if all GS have keyless. It's an option on most 1250's.
Sorry, my GSA uses 4,2 liters when I travel with it. I do up to 700km with one tank. I don't ride fast , there is no need to. Up to 110km/h is my travel speed and never above 4,5l. It has 134000km at the moment, loads of offroad and no problems with the engine or anything else. Oil change and normal maintenance is easy. I owned a T7 for a year, bought new in 2019 as I wanted to go to Kazahstan with it, then came Covid and I didn't go. T7 has many minuses in comparison to a GS: poor suspension, small fuel tank, no cruise control, no heated grips, no tubeless rims, a chain instead of a shaft, poor wind protection, just to mention a few. I had to choose between the two bikes in my garage and I sold the T7.
He's basically saying he don't have money to afford bmw, neither to maintain it...If money wasn't the issue at all I bet he would ride bmw, ducati, Ktm, etc..You can hear how envy he is..One thing is to be happy with your choice and move along but to be a always a smart ass and saying dumb shit like " Look what you gonna do with bmw in this kind a traffic, you don't need traction control, abs" is hilarious..Yep buy a scooter if you complain about traffic...Bmw is one of the best adv motorcycles out there period
My first comment after first 1:30 minutes, at last you are truly HONEST about GS (high cost). Some time ago, you had bashed up GS owners and GS Bikes. Maybe you forgot or you did not realise. Peace. WIth many GS owners, they have ENOUGH money to make any GS light and they don't care about "damages" while going offroad. Money can do many things. It is PERFECTLY OKAY to admit we don't have enough money. When I bought my GS Adv 2018, first thing I told myself is: don't look at the money. It is just money. I am not being boastful, but I am being "wise" about growing old and not being able to ride my dream bike if I wait longer. So I just did it.
I rode 116000km in a 2017 Gs. I was a amazing bike and went to Patagonia, Ushuaia and San Pedro Atacama twice. 15000km trip. I had a tenere 250 2017 and rode 110000km and i did Ushuaia and Carreteira Austral twice and it was amazing trip too. Its different bike, the Gs its safer in the road with a lot of trucks. The tenere was better in the desert and off road trails. But i Discover its not about the bike. Today peoples are very egoic and love and hate material thinks according his ego. Zero problems with the Gs and some with the tenere 250, but the tenere i understand 100% and can fix anywere. I am greatfull this life that permit me had thia 2 bikes. The same trip with thia 2 bikes was great and different and its ok.
For me personally at 71 yo. I need to be able to pick up the bike when I drop it.. We all have. I can lift my motorcycle but in some situations it my be tough. I now carry a motowinch device in case I need it. Worth the 5 lbs to me although I haven't needed it yet. Better to be able to get yourself out of trouble than walking. I also carry a satellite communication device. It's all perfect for my secondary road trips. I love doing my own maintenance too..Enjoyed the video.. thanks
Riding a 21 year old BMW F 650GS with the Rotax engine,never had any issues. Its so cheep i dont have to worry droping it or if it gests stolen. If it breaks down one day in a remote area i just leave it there like a dead horse 😅
I'll stick with my BMW F800GS 2010. Why, because all new bikes cost too much. Since mine is definately out of warranty, I do all my own maintenance. My g's is lighter and better balanced then the Tenere, less top heavy, same fuel economy and has never been dropped. I ride dirt here in Australia, often. Bike is mostly dirty and it is my main form of transport. I'm glad you stuck with the Tenere, the simplicity is key, parts are cheap and it is reliable.
You are absolutely right about riding through Europe. It has become insanely expensive, especially western Europe. If you want to save money on a trip in Europe, stay away from the big cities and popular tourist towns. Ride in the rural areas where is less traffic and everything is cheaper.
Fair comment. I am a 1250GS Adventure owner. The bike is very good handling and incredibly comfortable on long stretches of pavement riding. I agree with you that it’s not the bike for everyone, especially if rough or technical single track riding is in the trip plan. I’ve had my bike for 3years/30000km’s and I’ve been very happy with it for my use case. Thankfully the 1250 has a wet clutch and is much more easily accessible for service and replacement, with it now being located at the front of the engine.
I am 192cm and 97kg and many motorcycles are too small for me to be comfortable on a long trip. I bought a low mileage 2005 1200GS for 4000GBP. This bike is simple, no rider modes, no unnecessary electronics and weighed 198kg. It had a good rear rack and easily took all I needed for a long trip - I didn't camp or carry many tools or spares. This bike was really reliable for many long trips, as long as I put new tyres on it and serviced it before I left. All the time I was strong enough to lift it, I think it was a good choice for me. I agree the new machines are too complicated and expensive, but I don't think a new bike is necessary for any trip, as long as you look after it. When I reached 70, I let my GS to someone younger and stronger, ( I didnt lose money) and I do enjoy riding a lighter bike now, but I still think the GS is OK for some people, if they are of the right physique and content with an older model.
I loved all my BMWs on two and four wheels. But in recent times I had so many bad experiences with our local BMW dealership that I won't touch any BMW soon.
I had such experiences with my T7. Broke some parts when i dropped it offroad and waited two months for them. Covid time may be the reason, but still...
Unlike you, I am a GS hater because I had two of them. They were both the 1200GS models with one of them being the GSA (2005 and 2006 respectively). The first one needed about 1000ml of oil (yes, that's 1 liter) for every 1000kms from new! The second one which I got by trading in the first one with only 10K kms, the GSA, didn't burn a drop of oil (again got it new) but at about 20K kms, a valve hit the piston and the engine blew up (the relevant Advrider thread is actually mine). I was out of warranty by one month but BMW covered the engine repair in goodwill (having an excellent relationship with the owners of the BMW dealership helped a lot) but when I got the bike back the drive shaft bearing went south and I had enough of that bike too. Traded it in for a new (then) 2009 990 KTM Adventure and it was the best bike I ever had. I sold that one with 110K kms almost all trouble free (apart from some minor issues with the master and slave clutch cylinders - thanks Magura!) and I liked that bike so much that I actually got another low mileage one last March and it's a great bike with amazing suspension (raised at 280mm travel), no electronics apart from ABS and just great overall. The BMW telelever/paralever suspension is great for on road but awful off-road. Suspension is one of the most important parts of motorcycling and one of the major points that would steer me away from GSs.
I love this video. I had a F850GSA and when it could not be repaired, traded for T7. I changed the seat, and bar raisers, love it! Now traveling from Ohio to Alaska on the T7. Have been posting shorts of this trip
I was riding recently the new F900GS Adventure and honestly the experience was not completely bad, very good power delivery, great electronic suspension, very confortable in general for ROAD use. I was anyway very dissapointed about the sound of the bike, the incredbile WEIGHT, almost impossible to handle on any off-road at low speed or just to move it from the ground if you are a regular fitted guy. Regarding the service they claim that you can choose, at a decent price, to have a 3 year "free" maintenance anywhere in the world at a BMW dealership, despite the fact that you need to make a mandatory one year service anyway. They are flexible on the payments, they can make you a good rates loans, they have good bank conections and you can obtain a decent price. Still, as you said, for the regular person, the casual rider that travels this type of bike creates more problems than benefits. greetings !
I have an 800GS Adv and I use it on a lot of off road and no road trips, from 0 to 3750m altitude, on dusty, muddy or snowy paths. Now it have more than 75000 km ,dozens of falls (protections worked) and still work perfectly only with normal maintenance ( chains, sprockets, break pads, oil,… I didn’t changed yet any bearings (wheels or fork) even if it was abused on rocky or deep mud paths.
Before I start the video, I want to say that I had the bmw r1200rs. I sold it and I will never buy it again. The quality of the materials inferior to Japanese motorcycles (Honda) and too overrated. Also, the people in the BMW club have an air of superiority and they all talk about how they take their motorcycles to BMW Motorrad and pay hundreds or even thousands of pounds for maintenance according to the BMW list. After I sold it I was glad to get rid of it. Never again.
Absolutely agree with you- I can’t afford them either and so the best motorcycle for me personally is the KTM 390 Adventure 🥰- love that bike- light, nimble and affordable and a blast to ride. Sure it isn’t perfect and lacks suspension travel and ground clearance but for my purposes riding just like you did in the video on mostly those kind of trails or roads it’s suitable and on highways and mountain roads it is so much fun even fully loaded riding 2up all the time when I am in the Philippines 🇵🇭 Safe travels and thanks for sharing your videos 😎
That's why I bought my RE Himalayan 2022. No more electronic stuff than a tripper, fuel injection (in almost any single motorcycle) and ABS. Cheap maintenance with an Incredible quality - cost balance.
agree with much you say especially a tool, GS1200 240,00km self serviced, subframe broken no, driveshaft worn yes one but no chains worn, clutch dry yes one @ 210,000km. cast wheels tough as f**k, as reliable as a t7 very unlikely. but lower seat height/cg, nicer road ride, better weather protection, better heavy luggage carrier, easier to pick up from the ground (very important), more fun on the road? much maintenance is easy but not all, valves are just feeler guage and locknuts, big milage bikes yes, reliable yes/no, niggles yes big fail unlikely. Would your home-town ride break one doubt it very much, would it ultimately cost more- yes. I have done nearly 200,000 miles on GS12's they are very good machines far tougher and more capable on the trail than many think me included untill I tried. The T7 is a great bike but unfortunately Yamaha built it to a traditional low cost design fuel tank on top of a tallish engine which dissuades many smaller/shorter riders, it would be a very difficult bike for me to live with. Most of your principles I agree but not all your details. thanks.
I understand your 5 points, but you’re comparing your Tenere with a big and heavy 1200(1250) GS(A), but it would make more sense if you compare your motorcycle with a BMW GS700. That is nowadays an affordable bike, much lighter than the 1200(1250) GS(A). I drove the BMW 700GS for one year and is very comparable with your Tenere. I am now driving a BMW 1200 GSA and with this bike it is indeed challenging to really go off road. Your Tenere or my (previous) BMW 700GS would be much more suitable to do that. So I think you’re comparing apples with pears…
@@spring9603 There is a reason why BMW or other such premium manufactures stopped producing them. Why has Suzuki not stopped producing their 650 or Yamaha their 700's or 900's and Honda their 500's.
@@PSANDEE BMW still has their old 1200 air cooled engine in production. The fact that Suzuki still have (we don't know for how long) their 650 cc engine on the market doesn't mean that they didn't released a 800 cc brand new engine. The fact that BMW's policy is to improve their bike very often has nothing to do with the reliability. The 700 GS has been broduced for 7 years? Why did BMW stop the production. Just because they wanted to offer a better engine to their clients. I'm a Suzuki V Strom 1050 2021 owner. I know I have a reliable motorcycle but in terms of confort it can't never stand against an older 1200 GS.
Hello from Portugal, the big question is: Most motorcyclists stay at home wanting, wanting, always more than what they have. They are never satisfied enough to explore the capabilities of the bike they have. I have a Honda NC750x, I've done more than 100k, every time I think about a different bike, I take a trip of 300 or 400 km and I'm sure it's enough.
I’m in your camp. The BMW, KTM motorcycles are just too expensive, to purchase as well as too expensive to insure here in my country. I rather spend that money on fuel for my trips. I bought a 2007 VStrom 650 for a trip I’m planning north of the Arctic circle. I agree on having a basic bike with not too many electronic options, the simpler the better. I have installed Electronic cruise control, my choice and it was a reasonable price, and for me worth the effort. I’m not worried if I have tip overs with the bike, or if it gets covered with calcium chloride from the gravel roads. I have a lot of fun driving on gravel roads, the bike just makes me grin. I enjoy your videos, all the best on your future travels, looking forward to the videos.
@@LTLT900 I will do the Dempster first to Tuktoyaktuk, (Arctic Ocean) then Top of the World Highway, and yes the Dalton to Prudhoe Bay. From there to Vancouver Island, for the Pacific Ocean then heading east to Newfoundland for the Atlantic Ocean. I will then return home to South Western Ontario. Thanks for asking.
That terrain is easy with my 2008 F650GS (798cc) and most problems i have with it is in loose sand. I also maintain it mainly myself, motoscan is your friend, and at price point, i can't afford new one, had to buy used one...
@@motorcycleadventures especially with gopro, everything is so flat on those and even steep slopes looks like day walk routes. But i have driven lot of small gravel roads, forest machine paths etc. without problems with it. Sometimes there might have been a moment of disbelief, but it was more due to the rider than the characteristics of the bike, bike would go, but my skills are not enough...
Ever ride a Yamaha Tracer 900? I turned mine into a light duty adv sport tourer. Currently building a 1 wheeled trailer to tow behind it so I don't have to pack alot on the bike, pulling it should be easier than carrying it.
Hey, this video was very enjoyable. Yiu demonstrated how the tenere Is great off road as well as navigating typical congested European cities. Please do more
I own four motorcycles all four cost as much as a new GS but then I never buy a new motorcycle. I own the Tenere 660 but also a GS 1150 I think they bought have there own karakters. The maintenance of the GS 1150 is easier than the 660 because of the boxer engine. I don’t like all the electronics as well I think you are right about the new motorcycles. Cost to much and maintenance yourself is difficult.
Years ago I rode a 1976 BMW R75/6 with a fairing and saddlebags that actually made a decent trail bike getting off the blacktop on trips to find stealth campsites. NO JOKE. Then I got a 1984 BMW K100 and tried once to take it camping. It was a disaster. That big top heavy pig was too much to ride on narrow trails, let alone turn around on. Now in my old age I'm looking at a 400cc Chinese bike! 😂
Thanks for the new video I like it !❤ I sold an adventure and now ride an r100 Paris Dakar 1993 and I love it! It’s much lighter than a adventure and you can repair it always 👍👍👍 no stupid electronics
Sir- I have a 1250GS and it is the finest two-wheeled machine I have ever (or will ever) owned. But I completely agree with all of your reasons for preferring a lighter and less complicated bike. I really don't need or use all of the complex devices on the big GS and could be happy with ABS and heated grips as the only fancy features.
Pavlov, I have a question that is not related to the subject of the video. Free of not answering of course.....but I noticed only in this video the rear rack on your T7 and I found it not only beautiful but very practical in its reduced shape. Could I know who is making it? Thanks!
I own a BMW R 1200 GS ADV drom 2017 with 64k km . I have this bike for a few reasons : I do twice a year long trips with my wife, is comfortable and I can carry a lot of luggage. I go solo to do some easy offroad near my home. I'm tall and heavy (1,90 cm x 100 kg) and the bike fits me. In the near futureI'd like to buy a second motorcycle for offroad and smaller tasks, like driving to work, and keep the GS for long trips only. If I have enough money, T7 is my 1st choice. Else is the Voge 300 Rally.
Great video as always. As a long time motorcycle guy, I can still learn from your videos. Thanks for making me think. My off roader is an Xl650L Honda and a Ural Gear Up.
@Pavlin ... Glad you mentioned the weight factor with GS type and the like. Everything else to one side, for me if I can't pick it up when I drop it, it isn't any good at all.As you say, ABS, Traction control and all that are also irrelevant. The rides brain say's back off the throttle, or don;t brake so hard and for the most part riding in the UK/Wales is restricted to 70 mph. Don't need a 150mph Hyperbike !!!
My $0.05 on the GSA. I had a 12 50 GSA and went to the Arctic circle with at approximately 11,000 km round trip with zero technical issues. I service my bikes and I want to tell you that I'm not aware of any other machine that is that simple to maintain. For example, you can put the bike on the center stand and you can do either front or rear tire without any other need for support. The boxer engine is super easy to work on without doubt. Gas tank or 30 l. It's what you need for Canada where you have sometimes 150 mi between gas stations and you don't want to get stranded. BMW dealerships are all over. You can get spare parts and everything you need. The bike is heavy and it's not meant for deep off-roads but rather for the highway and some off-road. That being said, many people switch to Africa twin and KTM if they going to do just dirt roads with a lot of puddles and stones. Yes, the bike is pricey brand new but you can find it slightly used for a third off the price fairly easy. Wish everybody safe ride and God bless
I think the most important thing is to travel. On whatever you have. Just go. I missed the Saturday notifications for your livestream yesterday, and so did not know it was on until it was over - apologies. Ride safe 👍
Have you ridden a GS down your connection road? I beat on mine pretty hard. I don't don't think you would destroy it at all. If you don't bend rims on the Tenere, you won't bend them on the the GS either I don't think. I agree with you with respect to maintenance. There are many things you can do, but any bike that is heavy on electronics is going to be a pain to service. But for stuff like oil changes, or even maybe tires, you can do that stuff yourself. I also agree with you on cost. I feel fortunate to be able to afford one, and honestly I drive it back and forth across the US a lot, and the on road comfort on long trips is worth the price. It definitely is a compromise. I'm looking at buying a dual sport bike for off road. You can't do as much off road on a beast like a GSA and what ever you do will be harder because of the weight.
I have to say I completely agree with your travel preferences. I am at that stage in my life where I am over europe and what it has grown into. I ride 1200GSA and KLR650 and thinking about replacing both with T7.
I‘m riding a HD PanAmerica for three years, it’s my first adventure bike and it’s a great motorcycle but I understand what you mean. It’s really to heavy. My next bike will be definitely a lighter one.
I sold my boat (Honda Varadero) and I'm thinking about something smaller. I don't go on long trips. What is your opinion on:Royal Enfield New Himalayan 450 vs BMW G310GS. Thanks. Lovely videos.
What are your toughts on the new Himalayan 450? It is cheap, has enough power to do highwayspeeds if needed, can take crappy fuel if you travel somewhere where fuel is bad, suspension is awesome standard and can take 200kg of weight. Also one of the designers of the new himalayan was also on the T7 project and he made shure the exhaust bracked being bend does not bend the frame so it does not count as beïng totalled. Also good fueling and low fuel use
I had 15,000km on the first edition of the Himalayan around India and Nepal and I don't think that I will ever even consider buying it. Perfect to explore Southeast Asia, but that's it!
@@motorcycleadventures the new 450 is completely new, its a true evolution of what the old one could but this one gives better performance, handling, less maintenance, builtquality has been improved. It is better than the crf300 rally. I am saving up for one with tubeless tires.
Zdravei Pavka, it is still possible to travel around EU at 50-60 euro daily budget but that means there will be no hotels etc. Only camping, so good weather would be a big bonus to manage that which is quite hard to get considering the amount of rain has fallen all over EU this summer. Pozdravi ot Isle of Man.
Absolutely correct. I bought a Tiger 1200 in 2020 and am selling it now to buy a T7. Simple and light is better. Going to start traveling the BDR’s here stateside and the big bike is just too much!
Fair points, Pavlin, you explain your choice well. I love my GS 1200, right now I’m on trip on Iceland- and the GS is perfect- for me. If I were to do solo trip to Asia or Africa I definitly would have chosen a lighter and less complicated bike.
Love your videos sir! Have you considered a bike like the 1100 Africa Twin base model in manual? Still cheaper than a ktm or gs but more powerful than t7? I had an africa twin and it was brilliant
Enjoyed the ride along. I have several BMW's for different kinds of rides. Fortunate yes. But I really like my Tenere. It is proven tough. Fairly affordable to operate others not so. Now another point. Not only BMW but several brands now have models made in India, Taiwan, China Thailand. These motorcycles over the long run will be hard as hell to get parts for. The supply chain will be limiyed and compromised ny locations and the parts used to manufacture will be changed many times between the models. Very inconsistent. Stick with proven models of known brands. You will be glad you did in the middle of nowhere. Good vid Pavlin. Hope the South America trip is coming together
I fully appreciate Pavlin’s comments. I like my 13 year-old 1200GSA but it is big and heavy. My 650GS gets much more use. Neither go off road! I need to be able to pick a bike up if I drop it - and that is a concern as I get older! As for unnecessary gadgets, I would hate an adaptive cruise control or an automatic emergency braking system. Sometimes these are useful on a big lorry - but on a bike? Why would you need this, unless you are asleep or reading a book while you are riding?
hey pavlin. as a gs owner i am fully understanding your simplicity view. and this is my Philosophy too. i rode 70000km with a 1250 adventure with almost no dirt roads and just ordered a new 1300gs but without any extras. it saves me money, and weight. and most important. i dont want to have it on my motorcycle. but what i am really appreciating is this beautiful engine end shaftdrive solution with 237kilo . and i dont have to care for chain, engine oil or anything. i am only refueling and riding. This could be also simplicity. at least for me.
I started on a Honda CB125 K5 from 1972. Next i drove a BMW 1150 GS for 2 years. Found it too heavy for offroad. Now i drive a Honda Transalp PD10 and i love it offroad. Still own all 3 motorcycles. For long distance travel i use the BMW because of comfort. For offroad i use the Transalp. And for fun sunday rides i use the small CB125 K5. Just to be clear: The Honda CB125K cost me 1000Euro, the BMW 1150GS cost me 2700Euro and the Honda Transalp cost me 1700Euro.
Rode my 1200GS Rallye for nearly 100,000km with not one mechanical issue, mainly in the African bush. Replaced it with a Husky 501 which I've adventurised to get into really technical rides and done over 35,000 hard kilometes, again with no mechanical issues. But also bought the F900 GS - for my needs it's the better bike over the T7 (and only 14kg heavier and certainly less top-heavy than a T7) - it's economical, fun and the suspension is amazing. Really, bike choices are personal, so I respect your GS point of view but mine differs. And that's fine - enjoy the bike you have and can afford.
I definitely believe that the Yamaha Teneré 700 is the right tool for the job at a good price performance ratio! I’ve been riding the TT 600 and the Super Teneré 750 plus the WR of course..
I understand the point. I agree with it, but also worth to mention that reliability and ease of maintenance may be a issue on recent models. But probably is something not that bad on older (till older 1200GS maybe). For sure it'll be more prone to problems than a Tenere, maintenance even if doing it at home will be harder, more expensive, and you'll have to put more attention into it, but is not impossible to get. Recent models are a bit different and there is so much to go wrong that on a probability basis, it gets more delicate. But for some and the kind off-road they do, yes it will be not that usable on every terrain, but the trade off is the confort you get on connections and traveling. I just can't imagine putting something like it on places where i've putted my Tenere XTZ660. Man, how hard would that be. I remember last time i've done it, to spend an hour and half to go through 700m pad... Not saying a guy with more technical skills then i have (zero to none in my case) would do it with a GS, but would be stupidly harder to get it. But... As soon as you have that in mind, you just have to get precautions (i knew that track would be hard, just, not that harder :) ). In the end it is a ballance between what takes you do handle it, and what it gives you in return... I have to say i'm a practical guy like you. When i get my car, my bike, my motorcycle, i just want them to go and being not worried about it. But i tend to look at them as more than a tool. It's something that gives me confidence. Like a good frien should be. So i look at them just like that kkkk.
I am a lucky owner of a Super Tenere, as heavy as a GSA, but manageable. Shaft drive is a big advantage for me, not many options left on the market these days, except if you go the Bavarian option, which I’ve managed to avoid, with no offence to GS riders!😉 Thank you for another great video! Enjoy your rides, everyone!🏍️
I rented a GS1200 once for an ADV ride. On the highway it was great. In the dirt, I hated it. Dropped it from the stupid traction control I couldn't turn off. That was expensive. And those cylinders sticking out the side... Off-road they really mess me up - can't get my foot out where I want it.
I looked at a lot of different ADV bikes until I got my R1200GS. Mainly for the drive shaft and the lower suspension and lower seat. Most bikes I could not get my feet near the ground. Will agree that they are pricey, but I do my own maintenance
This your analogy applies also to recent BMW cars too especially if you come from a country where parts are not easily accessible. Better to stick to the older csrs with more accessible parts in those countries.
Well said! I’m also a proud T7 owner here in the Philippines with 75,100kms traveled. No issues whatsoever. I’ve traveled the whole country (Philippine Loop) with it. It really serves my riding needs. It’s built like a tank!
Hi! I love your videos. After watching this video i bought CF moto MT450 for 6290 euros! I had 10000 euros and Tenere was my choice but after this video i buy CF and invest rest of the money in riding gear, paniers and trips! Thank you 🫵🍺
I'm hoping to get some help for a decision regarding a purchase. There is an opportunity to buy a 2010 XT660R in almost new condition with only 9500km. The story of this bike is it was deceased estate so it sat stored in a garage for several years. The new owner has done a full service including the relining of the tank I assume from internal rust. Would this be a very risky purchase not knowing the internal condition. I did not test ride because its a private sale but it idles like a new engine. I trust Pavlin's review on these engines,it has taken me years to save the money for such a purchase but not sure it this could go horribly wrong. Genuine feedback would be appreciated.
Usually, when the engines stay for many years without working all rubber seals get old and start leaking after you finally start it. More or less is the same with pistons, gaskets, and so on. The tank, if it's from metal, cannot be cleaned perfectly as a new one, so it might cause some problems in the future. Just because it is on low mileage does not automatically mean that you won't have any problems with it. So there is a high risk that it won't work properly and the question is can you afford it?
@@motorcycleadventures Thank you!!, I thought about all those things you pointed out and my gutfeel is the issues will come later! It will stretch my budget and have nothing left for repairs thats what I'm afraid of. Not much selection here unless you buy new. There are many KTM 690 about but reliability could be one to worry about. Very difficult to make a good choice. I really appreciate your input and let this go.
11:05 you crossed at, let's say, very dark orange light. ;-) I will not buy GS either. The newest one looks like it has a built-in toaster, microwave, and dishwasher.
That's th reason why I bought tenere 700 2 years ago. BMW GS is good for paved roads, on bad terrain it is absolutely unusable. On my motorcycle, I go everywhere where the GS goes, but that same GS doesn't go where I can. I have nothing to say about reliability, you know what the truth is...Pozdrav iz Bosne i Hercegovine!
Hi Pavlin, I agree with you in almost all points regarding 1200 series. But you forgot to mention the 800 series of GS. The 800GS Adv is usable for off road riding, isn’t so heavy like 1200 series, good fuel consumption ( around 4l/100km.even on gravel roads, huge autonomy, good for long distances even with pillion and luggage. No reliability problems even after a lot of abuse and without maniacal maintenance, Easy to change oil, sprockets, brake pads, clutch if is necessary ( I changed at 28000 but wasn’t worn😊) I also repaired a bent water radiator in the forest with an improvised hammer (tire lever, so it's not that fancy. Or maybe I am just a lucky bastard.
Always the voice of reason. I had the same view of Harley Davidson. I have owned two in the past. I'm 71 years young and have been riding since I've been 14-15. I ride what I have and currently riding the Yamaha MT 07. I don't ride off road and this bike and engine never let me down. I also like small lightweight and small displacement bikes too. I'm more fun riding a small displacement bike fast than a bike displacement bike slow. Cheers and. " Keep your knees in the Breeze"!
For many of us normal folk the cost of many new adventure bikes is too much. I have a x300 versys and a Harley Iron 883 2017 and that’s all I can afford. I don’t need a big bike though for offroad and dual sport rides. The Harley Iron I use to travel with passenger and highway staff
As an F750GS owner, i agree with you 100%. Did i need it, nope. Was it overpriced, yes. But, i still love it and it covered everything i was looking for plus more. Also looks great sitting outside the cafe.....😂
We all have confirmation bias, Pavlin included. Several of the mentioned points are valid. A recent times GS won’t however break down from riding that road 200 times a year at the speeds shown. It also wouldn’t be more difficult than on the T7. I speak from experience. Would it be deep sand, that’s an all different matter. The T7 would shine, it’s not even comparable. As a side note, a normal GS is no more difficult to lift then the T7 due to the differences in center of gravity and the angle the boxer keeps the bike. The prices of the GSs have indeed gone through the roof with all the unnecessary features and that’s the only reason i also don’t buy those bikes anymore.
The road that I show is completely different when it rains. In the last two months, we have had zero rain. Also, it always looks easy on camera. In the last 3 years, I haven't seen anything different than dirt bikes here. GS here? Sure, a man with some experience will do it once or twice and will never come here again.
@@motorcycleadventures Fair enough. I always try to imagine what the road in such a video is really like, because i know the effect of wide-angle lenses on camera’s. What we see is flattened out and shrunken, the real thing is much more challenging. It’s however of course possible that i still underestimated the track. I didn’t think about different weather circumstances. Good point. Especially the wide rims/tires of the GS and (only) available tires with a less aggressive profile & thick walls and needed high-pressures to protect the rims are horrible for mud, slippery rocky terrain included. I wouldn’t want to be there when wet, or would only do it as you say only once or twice for the fun challenge. But for the circumstances in this video, i think that you underestimate what a man with your skills can comfortably do on a GS once you get used to the bike. It’s really amazing once you get comfortable enough in your head with it, to gun it (and the track is dry enough to do that). Anyhow, today we disagree a little less then yesterday, thank you for the comment 😉👍
Thanks for adding this commend! I have enough off-road km on GS1250 and I know what it can and cannot. what I said in the video is that is heavy and because of that will be damaged much easier. Have a great week!
Hi Pavlin, I also like to travel like you, but I am also a family man like you are. There comes the question in my mind, how can you match these very different things? Your kids are so big that they can handle that his fater is not home? You wife accepted that this is you daily job? I know that this questions are personal, but maybe you can do suggestions.Maybe this theme aerned they own video.
Pavlin, you are very honest and objective, thank you for that! The GS is a great bike for traveling around Europe with your wife (girlfriend), especially on mostly asphalt road with occasional trips to mild offroad. It covers long distances easily, it is comfortable and easy to carry a large load, it has excellent brakes, a huge tank, a low center of gravity and it is not a big consumer. The extended cylinders are good safety protection for the legs in my opinion. It's not that complicated to maintain for me, I maintain it myself
I am tempted to make a phone call to BMW Bulgaria.... but I won't. Pavlin is living in 1980s....opinion on GS. Post 2010 GS'es are a different beast. Subframe breaking? That's history.
You are right about Europe ,there are many places where I didnt see yet but really need a budget around 150 euro per day when you travel in the west europe ..but balkans still good and budget friendly option for travellers ..even Turkey is very expensive when you compare with balkans .
I had a Tenere 700 and GS1200, both bike have some + and - . The Yamaha Tenere , reliability, low cost and simple mechanic. Big neg , when you felt, very hard to put back on , high gravity motor bike. After I felt 3x during a day, oh man , I was so tired. BMW GS, low gravity, I can felt 10x, very easy to get back on. Negative side, sensors, electrical, less reliability. Motor very easy to maintain. Initial purchase , crazy price ! GS way more comfortable.
Any man is entitled to his choice. However,a few remarks. I own and ride, on a daily bases, old bikes. Like at least 20 years old. I cannot afford a new GS, but I can easily afford a 21 year young 1150GS. The oilheads are pretty simple to work on. Not very complex and on the naked GS you do not have remove tons of Tupperware to do an oil change. Adjusting valves, changing plugs is a breeze. A lot easier than on my, even older, VFR 750 F. I hate the look of ADV bikes, yet I had to try a GS next to my RT. Result: RT is sold off and I use the GS for most of my trips. Never off road. The GS is a pretty good tourer, the only issue (on the older ones) is the lack of wind protection.
@@motorcycleadventures what about new vstrom?i test rode it,and unless the very wide hadlebars which can be easily changed,i really liked it.transalp was top in my list.but now i m between tenere and vstrom,and i cant deside
Ì wish they still made the original air cooled 80G/S, i would buy another tomorrow . Simplist bike to work on and maintain. If i could justify a road only bike as well and had the money maybe i would buy a GS. My friend works for BMW off road rider training and swears by their off road ability but he is a professional rider and younger than me.
@@motorcycleadventures I have the Transalp 700, and it is solid bike, but it is not really designed for offroad and bad bulgarian roads... Sometime in the future, I want to get more offroad oriented bike with better suspension. Never been on the Tenere 700… Tried the previous Tenere - Xt660z, and it was a bit high for me (175 cm, 80 kg, very sporty), but I found it great otherwise!
I’m currently in Europe for a 6 week holiday (from Australia) and you are right, it is hugely expensive. Much more than I had budgeted for. I’ve only gone to Italy, Slovenia and Croatia so initially thought it would be reasonable but alas, all of them $$$$. Mind you, I did have my wife with me who only wants good accommodation.
I’ve had 4 BMW GSAs and done over 200000 klms around Australia over the years in extreme environments. Never broken down or had any major issues because the bikes were well maintained and not abused. We are all different, do different types of “adventures” and require different “tools”. Even though everyone has their preferences I would never criticise someone else’s choice of motorcycle.
Great reaction.
Too heavy, too much technology. As you get older you want lighter and less crap on your bike.
But the main problem is keyless.
😪😪😪😪
I have been to Australia, including the Outback. "extreme environments" means different to different people. Never say any bad words or criticize someone's choice!
@@erkful I have a 1250R - not GS and really like the keyless option.
I put the electronic key in the inner (zip) pocket on my jacket and never touch it on a ride. I never have any worry about losing keys.
I am not sure if all GS have keyless. It's an option on most 1250's.
This is why I enjoy your channel… you are honest and practical in your evaluations, no fluff or exaggerations.
Thanks, man!
Motorcycles should not be complicated, IMO. Especially ADV bikes! I agree with you 100%.
Good!
After 3 GS’s final find a peace with Africa twin.
Probably the best adv bike, certainly the best looking
Thanks for sharing!
lay it down and then lift, do this ten times then tell us how you AT is doing.And your back of course :)
@@motolover5697learn not to fall down first;)
@@pawesuchanek9369 if you don't fall you are riding too easy terrains.
I love your channel, it would be nice if you do a video on what bike you would buy after you decide to replace the Tenere. Keep it up.
That's impossible due to the fact that the new Tenere hasn't been relased.😀
I don't have any plans to change the motorcycle! I will ride it until it runs.
He already replied. I am now owner of a 800 V-Strom. Very happy with a "cheap" bike,too.
Sorry, my GSA uses 4,2 liters when I travel with it. I do up to 700km with one tank. I don't ride fast , there is no need to. Up to 110km/h is my travel speed and never above 4,5l. It has 134000km at the moment, loads of offroad and no problems with the engine or anything else. Oil change and normal maintenance is easy. I owned a T7 for a year, bought new in 2019 as I wanted to go to Kazahstan with it, then came Covid and I didn't go. T7 has many minuses in comparison to a GS: poor suspension, small fuel tank, no cruise control, no heated grips, no tubeless rims, a chain instead of a shaft, poor wind protection, just to mention a few. I had to choose between the two bikes in my garage and I sold the T7.
with all those "minuses" you still were able to travel to Kazahstan.
You must not have read this comment because he said he didn't go
@@s.b.1713 with all those "minuses" he still were able to travel to Kazahstan. :)
He's basically saying he don't have money to afford bmw, neither to maintain it...If money wasn't the issue at all I bet he would ride bmw, ducati, Ktm, etc..You can hear how envy he is..One thing is to be happy with your choice and move along but to be a always a smart ass and saying dumb shit like " Look what you gonna do with bmw in this kind a traffic, you don't need traction control, abs" is hilarious..Yep buy a scooter if you complain about traffic...Bmw is one of the best adv motorcycles out there period
A t7 is not Yuppie enough for me either without all the writer AIDS I might actually have to have some skill and ride myself
My first comment after first 1:30 minutes, at last you are truly HONEST about GS (high cost). Some time ago, you had bashed up GS owners and GS Bikes. Maybe you forgot or you did not realise. Peace. WIth many GS owners, they have ENOUGH money to make any GS light and they don't care about "damages" while going offroad. Money can do many things. It is PERFECTLY OKAY to admit we don't have enough money. When I bought my GS Adv 2018, first thing I told myself is: don't look at the money. It is just money. I am not being boastful, but I am being "wise" about growing old and not being able to ride my dream bike if I wait longer. So I just did it.
Thanks for taking the time!
I rode 116000km in a 2017 Gs. I was a amazing bike and went to Patagonia, Ushuaia and San Pedro Atacama twice. 15000km trip. I had a tenere 250 2017 and rode 110000km and i did Ushuaia and Carreteira Austral twice and it was amazing trip too. Its different bike, the Gs its safer in the road with a lot of trucks. The tenere was better in the desert and off road trails. But i Discover its not about the bike. Today peoples are very egoic and love and hate material thinks according his ego. Zero problems with the Gs and some with the tenere 250, but the tenere i understand 100% and can fix anywere. I am greatfull this life that permit me had thia 2 bikes. The same trip with thia 2 bikes was great and different and its ok.
Thanks for sharing!
For me personally at 71 yo. I need to be able to pick up the bike when I drop it.. We all have. I can lift my motorcycle but in some situations it my be tough. I now carry a motowinch device in case I need it. Worth the 5 lbs to me although I haven't needed it yet. Better to be able to get yourself out of trouble than walking. I also carry a satellite communication device. It's all perfect for my secondary road trips. I love doing my own maintenance too..Enjoyed the video.. thanks
Thanks for taking the time, man!
I canrry one too, and I am not 71. Has saved my bacon a few times alreadu
Riding a 21 year old BMW F 650GS with the Rotax engine,never had any issues. Its so cheep i dont have to worry droping it or if it gests stolen. If it breaks down one day in a remote area i just leave it there like a dead horse 😅
It is different story.
I'll stick with my BMW F800GS 2010. Why, because all new bikes cost too much. Since mine is definately out of warranty, I do all my own maintenance. My g's is lighter and better balanced then the Tenere, less top heavy, same fuel economy and has never been dropped. I ride dirt here in Australia, often. Bike is mostly dirty and it is my main form of transport. I'm glad you stuck with the Tenere, the simplicity is key, parts are cheap and it is reliable.
Fair enough!
You are absolutely right about riding through Europe. It has become insanely expensive, especially western Europe. If you want to save money on a trip in Europe, stay away from the big cities and popular tourist towns. Ride in the rural areas where is less traffic and everything is cheaper.
Good advice!
Thank you for your video and reasons!!
I use a 1300GS and KRM 890 ADV
Ouch... you told your bike to her face that she's cheap, easy to get, and that's why you got her... You hurt her feelings. :))
The bike is just a tool, not your girlfriend! Never forget that!
@@motorcycleadventures C'mon, it was a joke. I'd never treat my motorcycle so poorly!
Fair comment. I am a 1250GS Adventure owner. The bike is very good handling and incredibly comfortable on long stretches of pavement riding. I agree with you that it’s not the bike for everyone, especially if rough or technical single track riding is in the trip plan. I’ve had my bike for 3years/30000km’s and I’ve been very happy with it for my use case. Thankfully the 1250 has a wet clutch and is much more easily accessible for service and replacement, with it now being located at the front of the engine.
Thanks for sharing!
I am 192cm and 97kg and many motorcycles are too small for me to be comfortable on a long trip. I bought a low mileage 2005 1200GS for 4000GBP. This bike is simple, no rider modes, no unnecessary electronics and weighed 198kg. It had a good rear rack and easily took all I needed for a long trip - I didn't camp or carry many tools or spares. This bike was really reliable for many long trips, as long as I put new tyres on it and serviced it before I left. All the time I was strong enough to lift it, I think it was a good choice for me. I agree the new machines are too complicated and expensive, but I don't think a new bike is necessary for any trip, as long as you look after it. When I reached 70, I let my GS to someone younger and stronger, ( I didnt lose money) and I do enjoy riding a lighter bike now, but I still think the GS is OK for some people, if they are of the right physique and content with an older model.
Fair enough!
I loved all my BMWs on two and four wheels. But in recent times I had so many bad experiences with our local BMW dealership that I won't touch any BMW soon.
Thanks for sharing!
Where are you located if you don't mind telling?
He's in Bulgaria@@monkeytheo
Varna, Bulgaria.
I had such experiences with my T7. Broke some parts when i dropped it offroad and waited two months for them. Covid time may be the reason, but still...
Unlike you, I am a GS hater because I had two of them.
They were both the 1200GS models with one of them being the GSA (2005 and 2006 respectively). The first one needed about 1000ml of oil (yes, that's 1 liter) for every 1000kms from new!
The second one which I got by trading in the first one with only 10K kms, the GSA, didn't burn a drop of oil (again got it new) but at about 20K kms, a valve hit the piston and the engine blew up (the relevant Advrider thread is actually mine).
I was out of warranty by one month but BMW covered the engine repair in goodwill (having an excellent relationship with the owners of the BMW dealership helped a lot) but when I got the bike back the drive shaft bearing went south and I had enough of that bike too.
Traded it in for a new (then) 2009 990 KTM Adventure and it was the best bike I ever had. I sold that one with 110K kms almost all trouble free (apart from some minor issues with the master and slave clutch cylinders - thanks Magura!) and I liked that bike so much that I actually got another low mileage one last March and it's a great bike with amazing suspension (raised at 280mm travel), no electronics apart from ABS and just great overall.
The BMW telelever/paralever suspension is great for on road but awful off-road. Suspension is one of the most important parts of motorcycling and one of the major points that would steer me away from GSs.
Thanks for sharing your experience!
I love this video. I had a F850GSA and when it could not be repaired, traded for T7. I changed the seat, and bar raisers, love it! Now traveling from Ohio to Alaska on the T7. Have been posting shorts of this trip
Thanks for sharing!
I like your honesty and pragmatism....that is why I follow your channels !
I appreciate that!
I was riding recently the new F900GS Adventure and honestly the experience was not completely bad, very good power delivery, great electronic suspension, very confortable in general for ROAD use. I was anyway very dissapointed about the sound of the bike, the incredbile WEIGHT, almost impossible to handle on any off-road at low speed or just to move it from the ground if you are a regular fitted guy. Regarding the service they claim that you can choose, at a decent price, to have a 3 year "free" maintenance anywhere in the world at a BMW dealership, despite the fact that you need to make a mandatory one year service anyway. They are flexible on the payments, they can make you a good rates loans, they have good bank conections and you can obtain a decent price. Still, as you said, for the regular person, the casual rider that travels this type of bike creates more problems than benefits. greetings !
I know that they are very good in sales!
I have an 800GS Adv and I use it on a lot of off road and no road trips, from 0 to 3750m altitude, on dusty, muddy or snowy paths. Now it have more than 75000 km ,dozens of falls (protections worked) and still work perfectly only with normal maintenance ( chains, sprockets, break pads, oil,… I didn’t changed yet any bearings (wheels or fork) even if it was abused on rocky or deep mud paths.
I can confirm these words, but Cici, you have more than enough experience off road!
Before I start the video, I want to say that I had the bmw r1200rs. I sold it and I will never buy it again. The quality of the materials inferior to Japanese motorcycles (Honda) and too overrated. Also, the people in the BMW club have an air of superiority and they all talk about how they take their motorcycles to BMW Motorrad and pay hundreds or even thousands of pounds for maintenance according to the BMW list. After I sold it I was glad to get rid of it. Never again.
Absolutely agree with you- I can’t afford them either and so the best motorcycle for me personally is the KTM 390 Adventure 🥰- love that bike- light, nimble and affordable and a blast to ride.
Sure it isn’t perfect and lacks suspension travel and ground clearance but for my purposes riding just like you did in the video on mostly those kind of trails or roads it’s suitable and on highways and mountain roads it is so much fun even fully loaded riding 2up all the time when I am in the Philippines 🇵🇭
Safe travels and thanks for sharing your videos 😎
Friend of mine worked in the factory. Bit of a savant in my opinion. He was disgusted at the quality. Left as soon as he could.
5s and the video is done.
That's why I bought my RE Himalayan 2022. No more electronic stuff than a tripper, fuel injection (in almost any single motorcycle) and ABS. Cheap maintenance with an Incredible quality - cost balance.
Pavlin, as usual, great speech and good hometown video!!
agree with much you say especially a tool, GS1200 240,00km self serviced, subframe broken no, driveshaft worn yes one but no chains worn, clutch dry yes one @ 210,000km. cast wheels tough as f**k, as reliable as a t7 very unlikely. but lower seat height/cg, nicer road ride, better weather protection, better heavy luggage carrier, easier to pick up from the ground (very important), more fun on the road? much maintenance is easy but not all, valves are just feeler guage and locknuts, big milage bikes yes, reliable yes/no, niggles yes big fail unlikely. Would your home-town ride break one doubt it very much, would it ultimately cost more- yes. I have done nearly 200,000 miles on GS12's they are very good machines far tougher and more capable on the trail than many think me included untill I tried. The T7 is a great bike but unfortunately Yamaha built it to a traditional low cost design fuel tank on top of a tallish engine which dissuades many smaller/shorter riders, it would be a very difficult bike for me to live with. Most of your principles I agree but not all your details. thanks.
Fair enough! Thanks for sharing your opinion!
I understand your 5 points, but you’re comparing your Tenere with a big and heavy 1200(1250) GS(A), but it would make more sense if you compare your motorcycle with a BMW GS700. That is nowadays an affordable bike, much lighter than the 1200(1250) GS(A).
I drove the BMW 700GS for one year and is very comparable with your Tenere.
I am now driving a BMW 1200 GSA and with this bike it is indeed challenging to really go off road. Your Tenere or my (previous) BMW 700GS would be much more suitable to do that.
So I think you’re comparing apples with pears…
Affordability doesn't mean purchase price alone. Maintenance; longevity; cost of spares; type of gas and many such factors come into play.
BMW 700GS is not in production anymore and still several kilos heavier. T7 is still being produced. This is how I'm taking it.
@@spring9603 There is a reason why BMW or other such premium manufactures stopped producing them. Why has Suzuki not stopped producing their 650 or Yamaha their 700's or 900's and Honda their 500's.
@@PSANDEE BMW still has their old 1200 air cooled engine in production. The fact that Suzuki still have (we don't know for how long) their 650 cc engine on the market doesn't mean that they didn't released a 800 cc brand new engine. The fact that BMW's policy is to improve their bike very often has nothing to do with the reliability. The 700 GS has been broduced for 7 years? Why did BMW stop the production. Just because they wanted to offer a better engine to their clients. I'm a Suzuki V Strom 1050 2021 owner. I know I have a reliable motorcycle but in terms of confort it can't never stand against an older 1200 GS.
I don't compare anything!
Hello from Portugal, the big question is: Most motorcyclists stay at home wanting, wanting, always more than what they have. They are never satisfied enough to explore the capabilities of the bike they have. I have a Honda NC750x, I've done more than 100k, every time I think about a different bike, I take a trip of 300 or 400 km and I'm sure it's enough.
Good!
always good common sense:use what you need and don't follow the marketing !
Glad to provide it!
I’m in your camp. The BMW, KTM motorcycles are just too expensive, to purchase as well as too expensive to insure here in my country. I rather spend that money on fuel for my trips. I bought a 2007 VStrom 650 for a trip I’m planning north of the Arctic circle.
I agree on having a basic bike with not too many electronic options, the simpler the better. I have installed Electronic cruise control, my choice and it was a reasonable price, and for me worth the effort. I’m not worried if I have tip overs with the bike, or if it gets covered with calcium chloride from the gravel roads. I have a lot of fun driving on gravel roads, the bike just makes me grin.
I enjoy your videos, all the best on your future travels, looking forward to the videos.
Thanks, man!
Are you going up the Dalton highway?
@@LTLT900 I will do the Dempster first to Tuktoyaktuk, (Arctic Ocean) then Top of the World Highway, and yes the Dalton to Prudhoe Bay. From there to Vancouver Island, for the Pacific Ocean then heading east to Newfoundland for the Atlantic Ocean. I will then return home to South Western Ontario. Thanks for asking.
@@yaitsredthat's awesome.
I like your videos, very entertaining 👍 if you get a 800 GS that terrain is a piece of cake.
I had one in Cambodia for 2 years, it was always breaking. They are not adv bikes, they are for notching around tarmac only.
Zero interest of this model.
That terrain is easy with my 2008 F650GS (798cc) and most problems i have with it is in loose sand. I also maintain it mainly myself, motoscan is your friend, and at price point, i can't afford new one, had to buy used one...
It always look easy on camera!
@@motorcycleadventures especially with gopro, everything is so flat on those and even steep slopes looks like day walk routes.
But i have driven lot of small gravel roads, forest machine paths etc. without problems with it.
Sometimes there might have been a moment of disbelief, but it was more due to the rider than the characteristics of the bike, bike would go, but my skills are not enough...
Ever ride a Yamaha Tracer 900? I turned mine into a light duty adv sport tourer. Currently building a 1 wheeled trailer to tow behind it so I don't have to pack alot on the bike, pulling it should be easier than carrying it.
Hey, this video was very enjoyable. Yiu demonstrated how the tenere Is great off road as well as navigating typical congested European cities. Please do more
Glad you like it!
I own four motorcycles all four cost as much as a new GS but then I never buy a new motorcycle. I own the Tenere 660 but also a GS 1150 I think they bought have there own karakters. The maintenance of the GS 1150 is easier than the 660 because of the boxer engine. I don’t like all the electronics as well I think you are right about the new motorcycles. Cost to much and maintenance yourself is difficult.
Thanks for sharing!
Same here. Own a 1150GS. But most of the time it stays in the garage. I prefer riding my Transalp PD10...
Years ago I rode a 1976 BMW R75/6 with a fairing and saddlebags that actually made a decent trail bike getting off the blacktop on trips to find stealth campsites. NO JOKE. Then I got a 1984 BMW K100 and tried once to take it camping. It was a disaster. That big top heavy pig was too much to ride on narrow trails, let alone turn around on. Now in my old age I'm looking at a 400cc Chinese bike! 😂
Thanks for sharing!
Fantastic video. Great philosophy. And honesty too!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the new video I like it !❤ I sold an adventure and now ride an r100 Paris Dakar 1993 and I love it! It’s much lighter than a adventure and you can repair it always 👍👍👍 no stupid electronics
Thanks for sharing!
Sir- I have a 1250GS and it is the finest two-wheeled machine I have ever (or will ever) owned. But I completely agree with all of your reasons for preferring a lighter and less complicated bike. I really don't need or use all of the complex devices on the big GS and could be happy with ABS and heated grips as the only fancy features.
Thanks for sharing!
Totally agree. Pragmatic, sensible and go. JL
Good!
Pavlov, I have a question that is not related to the subject of the video. Free of not answering of course.....but I noticed only in this video the rear rack on your T7 and I found it not only beautiful but very practical in its reduced shape. Could I know who is making it? Thanks!
www.donner-tech.de/en
I own a BMW R 1200 GS ADV drom 2017 with 64k km . I have this bike for a few reasons : I do twice a year long trips with my wife, is comfortable and I can carry a lot of luggage. I go solo to do some easy offroad near my home. I'm tall and heavy (1,90 cm x 100 kg) and the bike fits me. In the near futureI'd like to buy a second motorcycle for offroad and smaller tasks, like driving to work, and keep the GS for long trips only. If I have enough money, T7 is my 1st choice. Else is the Voge 300 Rally.
Thanks for sharing!
Great video as always. As a long time motorcycle guy, I can still learn from your videos. Thanks for making me think. My off roader is an Xl650L Honda and a Ural Gear Up.
Glad to help!
@Pavlin ... Glad you mentioned the weight factor with GS type and the like. Everything else to one side, for me if I can't pick it up when I drop it, it isn't any good at all.As you say, ABS, Traction control and all that are also irrelevant. The rides brain say's back off the throttle, or don;t brake so hard and for the most part riding in the UK/Wales is restricted to 70 mph. Don't need a 150mph Hyperbike !!!
Thanks for sharing your opinion!
My $0.05 on the GSA. I had a 12 50 GSA and went to the Arctic circle with at approximately 11,000 km round trip with zero technical issues. I service my bikes and I want to tell you that I'm not aware of any other machine that is that simple to maintain. For example, you can put the bike on the center stand and you can do either front or rear tire without any other need for support. The boxer engine is super easy to work on without doubt. Gas tank or 30 l. It's what you need for Canada where you have sometimes 150 mi between gas stations and you don't want to get stranded. BMW dealerships are all over. You can get spare parts and everything you need. The bike is heavy and it's not meant for deep off-roads but rather for the highway and some off-road. That being said, many people switch to Africa twin and KTM if they going to do just dirt roads with a lot of puddles and stones. Yes, the bike is pricey brand new but you can find it slightly used for a third off the price fairly easy. Wish everybody safe ride and God bless
I think the most important thing is to travel. On whatever you have. Just go.
I missed the Saturday notifications for your livestream yesterday, and so did not know it was on until it was over - apologies.
Ride safe 👍
Agree, Richard! No worries about the stream. Now I am back and will have them regularly as before.
Bang on!Could not have been put better.
Good!
Have you ridden a GS down your connection road? I beat on mine pretty hard. I don't don't think you would destroy it at all. If you don't bend rims on the Tenere, you won't bend them on the the GS either I don't think. I agree with you with respect to maintenance. There are many things you can do, but any bike that is heavy on electronics is going to be a pain to service. But for stuff like oil changes, or even maybe tires, you can do that stuff yourself. I also agree with you on cost. I feel fortunate to be able to afford one, and honestly I drive it back and forth across the US a lot, and the on road comfort on long trips is worth the price. It definitely is a compromise. I'm looking at buying a dual sport bike for off road. You can't do as much off road on a beast like a GSA and what ever you do will be harder because of the weight.
I have to say I completely agree with your travel preferences. I am at that stage in my life where I am over europe and what it has grown into.
I ride 1200GSA and KLR650 and thinking about replacing both with T7.
Thanks for sharing!
Отличная философия брат! Поддерживаю на 100%! Бог помощь! Тоже смотрю на Т7, ты убедил лучше взять его, чем Трансальп! 🙏
Хорошо! Давай, не надо долго думать!
Thank you.
Any time!
I‘m riding a HD PanAmerica for three years, it’s my first adventure bike and it’s a great motorcycle but I understand what you mean. It’s really to heavy. My next bike will be definitely a lighter one.
Thanks for sharing!
I sold my boat (Honda Varadero) and I'm thinking about something smaller. I don't go on long trips. What is your opinion on:Royal Enfield New Himalayan 450 vs BMW G310GS. Thanks. Lovely videos.
Well... try them!
What are your toughts on the new Himalayan 450? It is cheap, has enough power to do highwayspeeds if needed, can take crappy fuel if you travel somewhere where fuel is bad, suspension is awesome standard and can take 200kg of weight. Also one of the designers of the new himalayan was also on the T7 project and he made shure the exhaust bracked being bend does not bend the frame so it does not count as beïng totalled. Also good fueling and low fuel use
I had 15,000km on the first edition of the Himalayan around India and Nepal and I don't think that I will ever even consider buying it. Perfect to explore Southeast Asia, but that's it!
@@motorcycleadventures the new 450 is completely new, its a true evolution of what the old one could but this one gives better performance, handling, less maintenance, builtquality has been improved. It is better than the crf300 rally. I am saving up for one with tubeless tires.
Zdravei Pavka, it is still possible to travel around EU at 50-60 euro daily budget but that means there will be no hotels etc. Only camping, so good weather would be a big bonus to manage that which is quite hard to get considering the amount of rain has fallen all over EU this summer. Pozdravi ot Isle of Man.
Not really! On this short trip that I did right now, I have had only two hotels for 9 days and it still costed me 120 euros per day.
Absolutely correct. I bought a Tiger 1200 in 2020 and am selling it now to buy a T7. Simple and light is better. Going to start traveling the BDR’s here stateside and the big bike is just too much!
Ditto,
Disposed off my 900 Rally Pro for same reasons!
Thanks for sharing your experience!
Hello, what is your average fuel consumption on the T7?
4/100km
Fair points, Pavlin, you explain your choice well. I love my GS 1200, right now I’m on trip on Iceland- and the GS is perfect- for me. If I were to do solo trip to Asia or Africa I definitly would have chosen a lighter and less complicated bike.
Thanks for sharing!
Love your videos sir!
Have you considered a bike like the 1100 Africa Twin base model in manual? Still cheaper than a ktm or gs but more powerful than t7? I had an africa twin and it was brilliant
I am okay with the Tenere
Thinking of buying a CRF 300 Rally and go to Asia from Sweden on it. What's your take on that, Pavlin !?
Yes, why not! People travel even with bicycles.
I'm sure people are going to Asia on bicycles, however that's not for me, though I'm turning 60 very soon 😁.
Enjoyed the ride along. I have several BMW's for different kinds of rides. Fortunate yes. But I really like my Tenere. It is proven tough. Fairly affordable to operate others not so. Now another point. Not only BMW but several brands now have models made in India, Taiwan, China Thailand. These motorcycles over the long run will be hard as hell to get parts for. The supply chain will be limiyed and compromised ny locations and the parts used to manufacture will be changed many times between the models. Very inconsistent. Stick with proven models of known brands. You will be glad you did in the middle of nowhere. Good vid Pavlin. Hope the South America trip is coming together
Thanks for taking the time again!
I did owned a GSA . I am on Tenere 700 now from more than two years and i am very pleased with it . I love it ! Thank you Pavlin for your videos ! 🍻
Great to hear!
I fully appreciate Pavlin’s comments. I like my 13 year-old 1200GSA but it is big and heavy. My 650GS gets much more use. Neither go off road! I need to be able to pick a bike up if I drop it - and that is a concern as I get older! As for unnecessary gadgets, I would hate an adaptive cruise control or an automatic emergency braking system. Sometimes these are useful on a big lorry - but on a bike? Why would you need this, unless you are asleep or reading a book while you are riding?
Thanks for sharing your experience!
hey pavlin. as a gs owner i am fully understanding your simplicity view. and this is my Philosophy too. i rode 70000km with a 1250 adventure with almost no dirt roads and just ordered a new 1300gs but without any extras. it saves me money, and weight. and most important. i dont want to have it on my motorcycle.
but what i am really appreciating is this beautiful engine end shaftdrive solution with 237kilo . and i dont have to care for chain, engine oil or anything. i am only refueling and riding. This could be also simplicity. at least for me.
Good, enjoy it!
Hi, can you elaborate on what you mean by not having to worry about engine oil on the new 1300? I don’t know much about this bike. Thanks.
I started on a Honda CB125 K5 from 1972. Next i drove a BMW 1150 GS for 2 years. Found it too heavy for offroad. Now i drive a Honda Transalp PD10 and i love it offroad. Still own all 3 motorcycles. For long distance travel i use the BMW because of comfort. For offroad i use the Transalp. And for fun sunday rides i use the small CB125 K5.
Just to be clear: The Honda CB125K cost me 1000Euro, the BMW 1150GS cost me 2700Euro and the Honda Transalp cost me 1700Euro.
Thanks for sharing!
Rode my 1200GS Rallye for nearly 100,000km with not one mechanical issue, mainly in the African bush. Replaced it with a Husky 501 which I've adventurised to get into really technical rides and done over 35,000 hard kilometes, again with no mechanical issues. But also bought the F900 GS - for my needs it's the better bike over the T7 (and only 14kg heavier and certainly less top-heavy than a T7) - it's economical, fun and the suspension is amazing. Really, bike choices are personal, so I respect your GS point of view but mine differs. And that's fine - enjoy the bike you have and can afford.
Ride whatever you like!
I definitely believe that the Yamaha Teneré 700 is the right tool for the job at a good price performance ratio!
I’ve been riding the TT 600 and the Super Teneré 750 plus the WR of course..
Thanks for sharing!
I understand the point. I agree with it, but also worth to mention that reliability and ease of maintenance may be a issue on recent models. But probably is something not that bad on older (till older 1200GS maybe). For sure it'll be more prone to problems than a Tenere, maintenance even if doing it at home will be harder, more expensive, and you'll have to put more attention into it, but is not impossible to get. Recent models are a bit different and there is so much to go wrong that on a probability basis, it gets more delicate. But for some and the kind off-road they do, yes it will be not that usable on every terrain, but the trade off is the confort you get on connections and traveling. I just can't imagine putting something like it on places where i've putted my Tenere XTZ660. Man, how hard would that be. I remember last time i've done it, to spend an hour and half to go through 700m pad... Not saying a guy with more technical skills then i have (zero to none in my case) would do it with a GS, but would be stupidly harder to get it. But... As soon as you have that in mind, you just have to get precautions (i knew that track would be hard, just, not that harder :) ). In the end it is a ballance between what takes you do handle it, and what it gives you in return... I have to say i'm a practical guy like you. When i get my car, my bike, my motorcycle, i just want them to go and being not worried about it. But i tend to look at them as more than a tool. It's something that gives me confidence. Like a good frien should be. So i look at them just like that kkkk.
Ride whatever works for you!
One of my bikes is a 2005 Honda Transalp and i love it because its soooo simple and relyable.
Good!
I am a lucky owner of a Super Tenere, as heavy as a GSA, but manageable. Shaft drive is a big advantage for me, not many options left on the market these days, except if you go the Bavarian option, which I’ve managed to avoid, with no offence to GS riders!😉
Thank you for another great video!
Enjoy your rides, everyone!🏍️
Thanks for sharing!
I rented a GS1200 once for an ADV ride. On the highway it was great. In the dirt, I hated it. Dropped it from the stupid traction control I couldn't turn off. That was expensive. And those cylinders sticking out the side... Off-road they really mess me up - can't get my foot out where I want it.
I looked at a lot of different ADV bikes until I got my R1200GS. Mainly for the drive shaft and the lower suspension and lower seat. Most bikes I could not get my feet near the ground. Will agree that they are pricey, but I do my own maintenance
Thanks for sharing!
This your analogy applies also to recent BMW cars too especially if you come from a country where parts are not easily accessible. Better to stick to the older csrs with more accessible parts in those countries.
True!
Well said! I’m also a proud T7 owner here in the Philippines with 75,100kms traveled. No issues whatsoever. I’ve traveled the whole country (Philippine Loop) with it. It really serves my riding needs. It’s built like a tank!
Thanks for sharing!
Hi! I love your videos. After watching this video i bought CF moto MT450 for 6290 euros!
I had 10000 euros and Tenere was my choice but after this video i buy CF and invest rest of the money in riding gear, paniers and trips!
Thank you 🫵🍺
Thanks for sharing!
For shorter people, the single cilinder F650GS was a nice travel companion. Less than 200 kg. Do you dislike that GS as well?
I cannot consider it as a real GS. I was talking mostly about 1200, 1250 models.
@@motorcycleadventures You could say the opposite, that the Sertao G650GS (175kg) was the last real GS :-) All the best.
I'm hoping to get some help for a decision regarding a purchase.
There is an opportunity to buy a 2010 XT660R in almost new condition with only 9500km.
The story of this bike is it was deceased estate so it sat stored in a garage for several years.
The new owner has done a full service including the relining of the tank I assume from internal rust.
Would this be a very risky purchase not knowing the internal condition.
I did not test ride because its a private sale but it idles like a new engine.
I trust Pavlin's review on these engines,it has taken me years to save the money for such a purchase but not sure it this could go horribly wrong.
Genuine feedback would be appreciated.
Usually, when the engines stay for many years without working all rubber seals get old and start leaking after you finally start it. More or less is the same with pistons, gaskets, and so on. The tank, if it's from metal, cannot be cleaned perfectly as a new one, so it might cause some problems in the future. Just because it is on low mileage does not automatically mean that you won't have any problems with it. So there is a high risk that it won't work properly and the question is can you afford it?
@@motorcycleadventures Thank you!!, I thought about all those things you pointed out and my gutfeel is the issues will come later!
It will stretch my budget and have nothing left for repairs thats what I'm afraid of.
Not much selection here unless you buy new.
There are many KTM 690 about but reliability could be one to worry about.
Very difficult to make a good choice.
I really appreciate your input and let this go.
Glad to help! Good luck with your future bike!
11:05 you crossed at, let's say, very dark orange light. ;-) I will not buy GS either. The newest one looks like it has a built-in toaster, microwave, and dishwasher.
The red light was alright, I had good visibility of the traffic around.
That's th reason why I bought tenere 700 2 years ago. BMW GS is good for paved roads, on bad terrain it is absolutely unusable. On my motorcycle, I go everywhere where the GS goes, but that same GS doesn't go where I can. I have nothing to say about reliability, you know what the truth is...Pozdrav iz Bosne i Hercegovine!
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Pavlin, I agree with you in almost all points regarding 1200 series. But you forgot to mention the 800 series of GS. The 800GS Adv is usable for off road riding, isn’t so heavy like 1200 series, good fuel consumption ( around 4l/100km.even on gravel roads, huge autonomy, good for long distances even with pillion and luggage. No reliability problems even after a lot of abuse and without maniacal maintenance, Easy to change oil, sprockets, brake pads, clutch if is necessary ( I changed at 28000 but wasn’t worn😊) I also repaired a bent water radiator in the forest with an improvised hammer (tire lever, so it's not that fancy. Or maybe I am just a lucky bastard.
Never like it!
Always the voice of reason. I had the same view of Harley Davidson. I have owned two in the past. I'm 71 years young and have been riding since I've been 14-15. I ride what I have and currently riding the Yamaha MT 07. I don't ride off road and this bike and engine never let me down. I also like small lightweight and small displacement bikes too. I'm more fun riding a small displacement bike fast than a bike displacement bike slow. Cheers and. " Keep your knees in the Breeze"!
Thanks for sharing!
How much to upgrade Tenere suspension?
Why you ask me, it is your bike.
@@motorcycleadventures why would you say that? I don't have a Tenere...
Depend on what you want to upgrade. I spent 220 euros, but it could be 5,000.
@@motorcycleadventures that's great, if you got the suspension you needed for only 220 EUR more 👍🏼
For many of us normal folk the cost of many new adventure bikes is too much. I have a x300 versys and a Harley Iron 883 2017 and that’s all I can afford. I don’t need a big bike though for offroad and dual sport rides. The Harley Iron I use to travel with passenger and highway staff
Fair enough!
What would be your second choice if not for the tenerre ? Africa twin? V-Strom?
Honda cfr300l
I will think about it when the Tenere finish it's life!
As an F750GS owner, i agree with you 100%. Did i need it, nope. Was it overpriced, yes.
But, i still love it and it covered everything i was looking for plus more.
Also looks great sitting outside the cafe.....😂
Fair enough!
Супер ти е канала браво!! имаш ли клипове за тенере на бг?
Съжалавам но не!
We all have confirmation bias, Pavlin included. Several of the mentioned points are valid. A recent times GS won’t however break down from riding that road 200 times a year at the speeds shown. It also wouldn’t be more difficult than on the T7. I speak from experience. Would it be deep sand, that’s an all different matter. The T7 would shine, it’s not even comparable. As a side note, a normal GS is no more difficult to lift then the T7 due to the differences in center of gravity and the angle the boxer keeps the bike. The prices of the GSs have indeed gone through the roof with all the unnecessary features and that’s the only reason i also don’t buy those bikes anymore.
The road that I show is completely different when it rains. In the last two months, we have had zero rain. Also, it always looks easy on camera. In the last 3 years, I haven't seen anything different than dirt bikes here. GS here? Sure, a man with some experience will do it once or twice and will never come here again.
@@motorcycleadventures Fair enough. I always try to imagine what the road in such a video is really like, because i know the effect of wide-angle lenses on camera’s. What we see is flattened out and shrunken, the real thing is much more challenging. It’s however of course possible that i still underestimated the track. I didn’t think about different weather circumstances. Good point. Especially the wide rims/tires of the GS and (only) available tires with a less aggressive profile & thick walls and needed high-pressures to protect the rims are horrible for mud, slippery rocky terrain included. I wouldn’t want to be there when wet, or would only do it as you say only once or twice for the fun challenge. But for the circumstances in this video, i think that you underestimate what a man with your skills can comfortably do on a GS once you get used to the bike. It’s really amazing once you get comfortable enough in your head with it, to gun it (and the track is dry enough to do that). Anyhow, today we disagree a little less then yesterday, thank you for the comment 😉👍
Thanks for adding this commend! I have enough off-road km on GS1250 and I know what it can and cannot. what I said in the video is that is heavy and because of that will be damaged much easier. Have a great week!
Hi Pavlin, I also like to travel like you, but I am also a family man like you are. There comes the question in my mind, how can you match these very different things? Your kids are so big that they can handle that his fater is not home? You wife accepted that this is you daily job? I know that this questions are personal, but maybe you can do suggestions.Maybe this theme aerned they own video.
Yes, my kids are big and my wife understands that this is my job.
Road that you have shown is not a problem for GS. Sometimes i ride RT on the same road
Come to ride and then we are going to talk again. Camera cannot show the reality.
Pavlin, you are very honest and objective, thank you for that! The GS is a great bike for traveling around Europe with your wife (girlfriend), especially on mostly asphalt road with occasional trips to mild offroad. It covers long distances easily, it is comfortable and easy to carry a large load, it has excellent brakes, a huge tank, a low center of gravity and it is not a big consumer. The extended cylinders are good safety protection for the legs in my opinion. It's not that complicated to maintain for me, I maintain it myself
As I said in the video it has it's purpose in a motorcycle world.
I am tempted to make a phone call to BMW Bulgaria.... but I won't. Pavlin is living in 1980s....opinion on GS. Post 2010 GS'es are a different beast. Subframe breaking? That's history.
Not really!
You are right about Europe ,there are many places where I didnt see yet but really need a budget around 150 euro per day when you travel in the west europe ..but balkans still good and budget friendly option for travellers ..even Turkey is very expensive when you compare with balkans .
Agree!
Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure!
I had a Tenere 700 and GS1200, both bike have some + and - . The Yamaha Tenere , reliability, low cost and simple mechanic. Big neg , when you felt, very hard to put back on , high gravity motor bike. After I felt 3x during a day, oh man , I was so tired. BMW GS, low gravity, I can felt 10x, very easy to get back on. Negative side, sensors, electrical, less reliability. Motor very easy to maintain. Initial purchase , crazy price ! GS way more comfortable.
Always pros and cons!
I love the sound, looks and handling of T700, but I stay with my 1200GS.
Fair enough!
Any man is entitled to his choice. However,a few remarks. I own and ride, on a daily bases, old bikes. Like at least 20 years old. I cannot afford a new GS, but I can easily afford a 21 year young 1150GS. The oilheads are pretty simple to work on. Not very complex and on the naked GS you do not have remove tons of Tupperware to do an oil change. Adjusting valves, changing plugs is a breeze. A lot easier than on my, even older, VFR 750 F. I hate the look of ADV bikes, yet I had to try a GS next to my RT. Result: RT is sold off and I use the GS for most of my trips. Never off road. The GS is a pretty good tourer, the only issue (on the older ones) is the lack of wind protection.
Thanks for sharing!
Pavlin,do you like the new transalp?if it was out 3 years ago,would you have bought it?
No, I don't like the design. Also it does not much with my size. I have heard only good things about it, but never ridden it.
@@motorcycleadventures what about new vstrom?i test rode it,and unless the very wide hadlebars which can be easily changed,i really liked it.transalp was top in my list.but now i m between tenere and vstrom,and i cant deside
Ì wish they still made the original air cooled 80G/S, i would buy another tomorrow .
Simplist bike to work on and maintain.
If i could justify a road only bike as well and had the money maybe i would buy a GS.
My friend works for BMW off road rider training and swears by their off road ability but he is a professional rider and younger than me.
Thanks for sharing!
Reason #6 is, you are a practical and realistic person.
Yes, I am!
What about the older Africa (CRF 1000 manual)? Would you bet on it, if the Tenere was not an option?
Well... the Tenere is an option.
@@motorcycleadventures yeah, but I am a little short for the Tenere, and your opinion matters for me😊
If you are short go for Tansalp. It will suit you better.
@@motorcycleadventures I have the Transalp 700, and it is solid bike, but it is not really designed for offroad and bad bulgarian roads... Sometime in the future, I want to get more offroad oriented bike with better suspension. Never been on the Tenere 700… Tried the previous Tenere - Xt660z, and it was a bit high for me (175 cm, 80 kg, very sporty), but I found it great otherwise!
Thanks for sharing!
I ride a Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT. And I love it. However if I had the money, I would be on a GS1200 or 1250. For sure.
Fair enough!
I’m currently in Europe for a 6 week holiday (from Australia) and you are right, it is hugely expensive. Much more than I had budgeted for. I’ve only gone to Italy, Slovenia and Croatia so initially thought it would be reasonable but alas, all of them $$$$. Mind you, I did have my wife with me who only wants good accommodation.
Thanks for sharing!
Will u ever travel to South asia? Places in india, vietnam seems wonderful and are super cheap
I was in Pakistan, India, Nepal and Bangladesh in 2018.
Well said pal.
Thanks, man!