Enjoyed the tour of the bike and the town. I have a ‘22 GSA Low and love it - I can’t stay off of it. My GSA Low was equipped with the center stand as standard.
Bought a 1250GSA Rallye. Didn’t lower it (32 inch inseam;)) bloody love this bike. I’ve found the perfect bike. If you had a Venn diagram, of all the best attributes tour/off road/sport/comfort the GS/GSA would be the only bike to have the most overlaps by far. It’s a jack of all trades. Best bike in the world
I got a Harley… and kind of rode it once and a while. It didn’t feel good to ride. I got a R1250GSA… I love to ride it. It is a joyous feeling. Power, comfort, balance… I don’t hurt when I get off after a ride. I also feel safer being able to see over the cars in front of me.
I appreciate the thoroughness of your reviews and that you don’t mind getting down and dirty in the process. My wife bought me a new 2022 r1250gs and I don’t know why I’ve not had one of these. It is by far the most competent (overall) motorcycle I’ve ever owned. Thanks again for the review and be safe.
Michael I always enjoy your motorcycle videos. Great to see a mature rider evaluate different bikes. I’m 73 and my stable is only 3 bikes, but I still enjoy touring in the States. We are planning a Band of Brothers tour of Europe in 2026 so that gives me something to plan for. Riding keeps you young. Here in Wisconsin my motorcycling is curtailed until spring and your vids keep me sane until I can get back on. All the best, and keep ‘em coming, please!
Another great video. I picked up my new R1250GS TE Trophy a couple of weeks ago, my first BMW since the early 90's. It is now fully run in and I'm finding it an excellent all round bike. I went for the pillion package which includes the adjustable separate seats, larger windscreen, centre stand, luggage rails and grab handles. I like the look of the rallye seat though. I also went for the aux lights, engine bars and the BMW Vario luggage system which is great. I've not ridden the bike on a dry road yet, it's not the easiest bike to clean! I still have my trusty Fazer thou' of 21 years which I will use as a winter bike, once I get over the thrill of riding the new GS.
I ordered the same, delivery 3 weeks away. The pillion package was a low cost switch and adds a good mix of gear, much more suited for two up usage. Not sure that Rally seat is that pillion friendly 😬. The pillion package also adds the centre stand on the low model.
I have a trophy also got the heated seats lights gold wheels and i’ve also never ridden in the dry really. It’s my second gs but quite looking forward to the dry roads now. But I agree it’s awful to clean which makes it worse with ocd😂
Nice review 👍. I rode my R1200RT today throughout Arizona….I got sick of the weather in England 40 years ago, but still love the people ❤️. I’ve been contemplating getting a GS, but I just love the RT which is so agile to ride. You can’t go wrong with a BMW
😂 Weather still wet here - as you can see . Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment .. Try a GS ? You might be surprised at how agile they are . RT a good bike though . Nice problem to have …
@@michaelmam We rode South Africa for a week - all very experienced dirt riders. My friends all rode Suzuki V-strom 650's - and had a great time. I stupidly opted for one of these elephants - and had a really shitty time! Could not wait to get off it every night!
Enjoyable informative video Michael. I'm on my first GSA1250 after a GS 1200 Rallye and a 2011 1200 twin cam GS. I'm 5'8 too but I am happy with the standard height GSA with the seat on the low setting. The fact you don't have a centre stand is a Rallye/Trophy thing and not a low chassis thing so you can get one if you feel the urge. My GS Rallye only had the side stand and I was happy with that for 4 years and 20,000 miles. I use my bikes every day in all weathers so they get filthy like yours did. I wash mine with turtle wax car shampoo, use Muk Off by diluting it 50% and on sections at a time to avoid leaving it on too long as it will mark the finish if allowed to dry. I then use turtle wax 'wax it wet' spray with a micro fibre cloth to dry and polish it and then use the Muc Off finishing spray on the engine and wheels to protect it (I think it is identical to GT85) 3 BMWs and 50,000 miles of weekly cleaning has kept them mint. Agree with others get the Machine Art front and rear fender extenders from Nippy Normans. they look OEM and work well. Lastly set up Dynamic Pro and turn down wheelie control for added childish shenanigans 😉
Rallye Seat Question: Hi Michael, interesting comment from your wife on the comfort of the seat. I’m currently looking at the Trophy and looking at that set up. Having owned GS’s with the pillion package I’d be interested to know how that seat is for you solo and with your wife pillion on bigger distance days. Tip for you on cleaning the wheels is SDOC 100 to clean and a suitable brush to agitate in the smaller areas. Wash and dry off well then with a small amount of ACF50 on a rag, wipe the black wheel. With a small brush paint ACF on the spoke nuts etc. Top tip for the axel spindle is apply car polish to keep it shiny and protected. If you want to look how a bike has been looked after, that is a tell tale for me.
Hi Sally , We haven’t really tested the seat over longer distances yet . I really like it solo but the longest ride I have had in a day is probably just over 220 miles albeit in torrential rain . Not sure how we will get on with it on a 3 day - 6-700 miler . I will let you know when we have taken it away properly this spring . We are taking the Suzuki GT to Portugal in March because I know those seats work for us and it will probably be 2000 miles . I will try the BMW on a shorter one 😂 Thank you for the cleaning tips 👍 Always looking for ways to keep the bikes looking right .
I enjoy your videos Michael and look forward to another instalment. I offer a correction on the weight (13:42), I think the load capacity is c.450lb and the a quoted wet weight of the bike c.550lb, although the reality with crash bars and pannier racks will much more. Numbers which do not matter because, as you demonstrate, the low speed handling of the bike is very good.
Thanks Alan 👍 . I got it right when reviewing the spec but wrong in the carpark .🤦😂 Appreciate you taking the time to comment . The weight is carried low on the bike and as you say low speed handling is excellent 👍
Having my GS with similar wheels and 100000km now, I don't use specific wheel cleaning products. I just use a normal shampoo for washing cars and a long brush that gets between the spokes, but am not that much into cleaning it. After drying I wipe them with a semi moist cloth and they come out nice. I once got them sort of tainted by washing it on a roadside self service station, and recovered the color and finishing back by using a light amount of wd40 and a cloth. BMW sells a specific wheel cleaner spray, I would use that if facing salt on the road. I really appreciate how you enjoy different motorcycles.
That is some proper kms! I do find the wheels harder to keep clean than I would like but we did enjoy our recent trip around the Highlands of Scotland . I am making a video comparing the GS ( adventure tourer) to my Suzuki GT ( sports tourer) . I do enjoy riding different types of bikes - glad it comes across 👍
I have a July 2022 1250 Rallye, which I rode 2,000 miles across the Alps last September, replacing a 2014 model 1200GS. It is low chassis & has centre stand. Dynamic + Auto suspension settings is best in my view. I have fitted fender extenders, Altrider crash bars & bar risers. I loved my previous bike, but like the TFT screen even more. I have not fitted an Akra this time as the noise was just too much on longer trips, for my mates mostly. Heated seat is great especially on chilly Alpine mountain climbs. Great bike, we made an excellent choice, enjoy yours. Last thing I took the Anakees off & fitted Road 6 to reduce noise, it worked but they do squirm at speeds over over 115mph ( On Autobahn honestly)
When you choose the low cost pillion kit you get the vario pannier mounts, dual seats, side stand and larger screen. It cost me about €250 on my Trophy low chassis when configuring.
Hey Michael, Found your videos after searching for low seat height/chassis information and found it very useful. As a somewhat new rider (2.5 years) I'm sold on the GS but being slightly shorter then yourself now aware that the short options are the ones to review as I look to pick up a new bike. Appreciate your time in pulling this together and safe riding!
Michael you are a tough hombre riding in those conditions! I look forward to your adventures this year. By the way I found a little British hospitality right in Oklahoma USA. The new asst manager at my athletic club is from London and quite the nice young man. We were discussing the differences here and he said the wide open spaces were his biggest adjustment. Good luck in 2023!!!!
@@michaelmam In the Sierra Mountains in WA State USA where we ride out KTM 450 off-road bikes - these things would not make it 5-miles! Huge elephant's for poseurs on the street!
Enjoyed the video I'm not a BMW owner, and my bike is shiny plastic SX kawasaki, so I use Muc- off to clean it down a speed wax , and ACF 50 don't use it in bad weather but occasionally get caught out , it's a 2017 and looks really good considering it's age , I get lots of comments how clean it is and the condition for a bike that's 6 years old shortly,
The original purchaser had the options to get, I think it's called the pillion pack, at no extra cost. You get a rider and pillion seat, taller windscreen and centre stand. I've got the 1250 rallye with the same set up.
Glad to see that you’ve been able to put the miles in and start your conclusions. What are the criteria when choosing which bike to take? Please tell me that you are selling the old GS! Many thanks for your time in making this video.
I tend to ride upright bikes in the winter - preferably with heated grips ! Influenced of course, by what I am planning to film . I was keen to spend some time on the GS and see how it coped and handled in , the wet . We are off to Portugal in March and as long as the weather f/cast is “ok” we will probably take the Suzuki GT as I know we are both comfortable on that . I will try a shorter , 600 miler, with the GS , two up in April . See how the seat is .. Plan is to sell the original GS now 👍
Another excellent video. It was great fun riding our GS's together over the holidays in all weathers! As you know, I have a Givi Tanklock system that works well on my Rallye and of course mine came with a centre stand, useful as you said, for cleaning. I've put the bike away until all the salt has been washed away as I haven't the time sadly, to detail the bike back to its original, pristine condition. Keep up the great work, love the on-bike camera and the new fleece. 🫡
My 2018 1200 TE Exclusive is fitted with the factory low suspension kit and this came with a shorter centre stand, so maybe you can get one retro fitted by a Motorrad dealer.
Sure . The bike is a September 22 GS Trophy in Gravity Blue matt metallic . Dynamic ESA Keyless ride gear shift assist pro riding mode pro GPS PREP Seat reduction (low chassis) heated grips cruise control Hand guards (with aftermarket extensions) BMW panniers Handlebar risers (aftermarket) Reupholstered seat( by "Core")
@@michaelmam 60,000 folk found out. These elephants are too big! Too wide. Too heavy? And Too tall! A Suzuki 650 V-strom will be a much better buy for 59,500 of these folks who now have very thin wallets!
I would avoid muck off on the wheels, My last gs was 3 days old washed it with muck off and ruined the anodising on the wheels. This current bike I have only used maguires wheel cleaner which has been great up to now.
My Factory lowered 1250 GS has a centre stand, so must just be a Trophy thing. Regarding the tank, I have a TE exclusive with matt black side panels on the tank. Once marked the imperfections are impossible to get rid of because polishing and marks/light scratches out then makes the paint go glossy so I had one panel replaced under warranty when that marked up. I then got the dealer (Cotswold Motorrad) to book Tony James design to fit some PPF to the panels to stop them getting marked up and they're near impossible to see so IMO well worth it.
I also have a GSA and the NAV6, however i bought the bmw iphone holder that clips into the sat nav bracket. you can then downlaod the bmw mottorad app and the whizz wheeel works the navigation on the app. Works well for me. It also loads the routes much quicker. Finally, if you haven't tried yet, Basecamp route planning for the BMW Nav V and VI is dreadful but to date i havent found anything else that can load my route as i planned- good video and now subscribed
Thanks Clive . I like the idea of my iPhone clipping in . I use quod lock and iPhone on other bikes and where possible , I like to have a standard approach .👍
The modern GS is too complex for my tastes. I'd rather like the basic Urban G/S. Too much tax on it in Thailand, though. Your bike is very handsome. I like the screen. Aftermarket? I rode my R1100GS in all weathers. It is what they are for. I had it for 14 years. It was running just as well when I sold it in 2010 with 95,000 miles on it as it did when I bought it with 4,000 showing. I loved the low c of g and the low-down shove. Don't get me on about the lunacy of net zero. Good video.
A great summary of a beautiful bike… nice piece of kit! A couple of questions if you had a moment. 1) I’m looking at this bike for road use in central Florida… Hot with more air flow versus the RT… have you ever riden the RT… it would be great to have your commentary in comparison to the Suzuki GT as well. Since my use will all be on road, I’m wondering if the lower frame option would provide better stability (I am 6 feet with a 32 inch inseam). Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Looking forward to your future efforts. Ride safe! 👍
Hi Leo , thanks for watching and taking the time to comment . Yes .. I have ridden an RT , which is a very well regarded bike but we didn’t actually enjoy it much . I felt slightly too detached but that may be because I have ridden so many miles on more naked / open bikes ? Try one? Stability ? Personally I think the bikes moving stability is more to do with wheel base , steering rake and general geometry than chassis height . I like low seat height for low/no speed , ground contact . If you have that with a standard chassis bike you will retain the advantage of additional ground clearance with no downside? Hope this helps ?
Went to go look at one at my local dealer the otherday, threw a leg over and was barely able to put my left foot flat footed on the ground and I'm 6'-2" with a 32" inseam. It was priced at $26k U.S. I'm on the fence about this bike. Also looking at a Triumph Rocket GT and Indian Pursuit.
There are a lot of different permutations and seats . Sometimes dealers show you what they have rather than what you could have ? A lot of people are put off by the height / size ratio . I have never ridden an Indian Pursuit but the Rocket is a surprisingly easy bike to ride with a low seat height 👍 Have fun choosing ..
Another enjoyable and informative video mate. There's no doubting the GS' capability but I found it very bland, unlike my Katoom 1190. Be interesting to see how it fares against your GT for spirited touring.
i’ve had a gs for years and can assure you for a spirited ride I would happily dance with any bike on a county road. be it sports bikes, Nakeds ect the gs will be there or there about if riden properly. The kawasaki versys is a bland bike. Btw my other bikes are ktm 690 and tuono v4 but nothing for me beats the gs at everything .
I took delivery of my Triple Black GSA low chassis just before Christmas. Same height as you, and find it a dream. Mine has a center stand, as I plan to tour rather than go off road etc, although the GSA has an additional plate in the center stand for increased protection. You must buy a Mudsling to protect protect the rear shock etc, it's a godsend. Can I ask how the screen is? I am thinking of going to the rallye screen but unsure of the impact?
Thanks for watching and finding time to comment . Screen is “ok” but limited in its protection . Better than naked but the bigger version offers more …👍
I have the black Rallye Sport Screen on my 1250 GSA triple black and it looks great and works really well. Obviously you will get less wind protection but on hot summer days you will appreciate the ability to get some wind through the vents of your jacket ;-).
Amazing video, thanks. You sound a lot like the renown wildlife journalist/broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, but without the extra nice award winning punch and tone 😅. But you are still excellent reviewer thanks, so are you his youngest brother or first born son? 😂 Thanks for the great review of the 1250 Trophy, i working to buy one soon. Thanks
Interesting comments about the alkaline on the aluminium, just received 5 litres of muk off, used it on my vstrom only about three times. But a bit worrying to see on the container it’s indeed alkaline based. Firstly have you ever used it and what’s your take on it being alkaline based. New to the channel and enjoying it so far , thanks in advance. Gary
I do use muc off and actually on my VStrom ! . It is strong , needs to be diluted and the time / exposure advice taken seriously . Too acidic or too alkaline ? Neither are perfect but do a job that PH neutral struggle to emulate . Use it but be careful ? Hope this helps …
@@wilsonmercado2287 sounds like you have a problem with your GS . I have 3 BMW’s at the moment . None of them have gearbox issues and neither did the one now sold . The GS’s gearboxes are pretty clunky though . Agricultural to industrial depending on the year ..
Very good channel Michael. I can relate to your content as I have some of the same bikes to you:2022 DL650, 2022 GSX-S GT, and I have also just ordered an R1250 GSA TE Trophy. In terms of the GS, I have a 35 inch inside leg measurement to the sole of my bike boot. Do you think that with the standard seat at 890mm, I will be able to flat foot on both sides? Also, I note your bike has the halogen headlight, which was a stop gap due to semi conductor and component shortages. I am sure BMW will upgrade that to the adaptive LED?
Glad you enjoy the channel . Thank you for taking the time to comment ! 35 inside leg should be fine on a trophy but perhaps best to check at a dealership ? I am interested to see what BMW come up with on the lights . Off on the GT for a couple of weeks soon . Looking forward to it ..
Hello ! Did you think the weight of the motorcycle was something negative? I'm 62 years old, I'm fit, but I don't know if the weight would condition me
It is a heavy bike but the weight is low and when combined with the low chassis , I find it easy to ride and move around . I didn’t feel the same about the standard height bike but we are all different . Hope this helps👍
Why do you have road tyres on the trophy addition? The trophy edition is for the International GS Trophy and you have the less comfortable seat, less wind protection 🤷♂️
Too heavy! Too Fat! Too tall! These elephants wear you out by lunch time! A Suzuki SV650 V-strom is a much better bike - no matter how good you think you are!
Ever actually ride one? They feel like nothing once you are onboard and moving. If they “wore you out by lunchtime”, they wouldn’t be the #1 selling bike in England. Not the #1 selling ADV bike, not the #1 selling touring bike… The #1 selling bike. Many GS owners are repeat customers, ever wonder why? The little Strom is a pretty good beginner motorcycle, but there is no realistic way to make a comparison.
@@artb1974 I am a very experienced off-road rider. Ridden 30-years in the trails in the Sierra Mountains here in Wa State in the USA. On proper Enduro bikes. How about this for a comparison: Last year our club rode Africa, 3-weeks. Proper off-road riding. Not pussy roads for dirt bike wannabes! My mates all rode 650 V-Stroms - your "beginners bike" - they had a wonderful time. I foolishly chose a BMW GS 1200. - I had a nightmare of a time with that fat pig! 3-weeks of just being glad to get off that elephant at the end of each day. Swapping over to the Suzuki for a day was like being in heaven. They are not off-road bikes! Poseurs bikes. 80& never go off road. Take care
@@DennisMerwood-xk8wp the sv 650 is about as budget as you get. that’s a better classed commuter and nowhere near the bmw. The bm is not fat or incapable of going off-road. Your opinion smacks of someone who cannot handle a bike or cannot afford it either way they are light years ahead of any budget battle sv in any biking environment . The suzuki finish is cheap and the engine in the sv has always been about as powerful as a ride on mower. A mate of mine has an sv and it’s absolutely nowhere near any other in this class.
@@Crsf84 My opinion comes from 40-years of riding REAL off-road bikes, IT490K, XR650, KTM 390, in the mountain trails of the Sierra Mountains in WA State, USA, mate. Motocross bikes with lights! Riding that would have you on your fat BMW unable to proceed - stuck and upside down in 5-miles. And I have plenty of money. Those 3-weeks in Africa on that fat heavy pig was the worst off-road riding in all my 40-years. Your opinion smacks of an elitist with an overly inflated opinion of your riding ability! I bet you would not last more than half an hour in the off-road environment we ride in. It's so embarrassing for you when, after 5-miles, four of us have to come back to find you and your fat elephant hopelessly marooned and need pulling out. Light years ahead - in your dreams mate!
I love your vids I honestly do and you make them well !! Sadly I am not in the same leauge as you when it comes to finance/ bikes etc I recently went to buy another bike a B.M.W. R850RR "OLD" I took it for a test ride and appart from feeling a little cramped in the seating position I loved it I honestly did .. Being cheeky I thought this was a good opertunity to take a newish G.S. out To be very honest as an old time biker I had much more fun on the 850 than the 1250 The complex riding modes for me are just like having someone else ride the bike for you ?? I am now getting why these Royal Enfields and others are taking off I gues if you are riding thousands of miles a year it might make sense or if you are not a competent rider that would also make sense but I feel that biking has lost its true sense of adventure has it not ??? Anyway what do I know as an old git probably nothing !! Keep them coming !!
Enjoyed the tour of the bike and the town. I have a ‘22 GSA Low and love it - I can’t stay off of it. My GSA Low was equipped with the center stand as standard.
Bought a 1250GSA Rallye. Didn’t lower it (32 inch inseam;)) bloody love this bike. I’ve found the perfect bike. If you had a Venn diagram, of all the best attributes tour/off road/sport/comfort the GS/GSA would be the only bike to have the most overlaps by far. It’s a jack of all trades. Best bike in the world
I got a Harley… and kind of rode it once and a while. It didn’t feel good to ride.
I got a R1250GSA… I love to ride it. It is a joyous feeling. Power, comfort, balance… I don’t hurt when I get off after a ride. I also feel safer being able to see over the cars in front of me.
I appreciate the thoroughness of your reviews and that you don’t mind getting down and dirty in the process. My wife bought me a new 2022 r1250gs and I don’t know why I’ve not had one of these. It is by far the most competent (overall) motorcycle I’ve ever owned. Thanks again for the review and be safe.
Thank you Bill . Have fun !
Michael I always enjoy your motorcycle videos. Great to see a mature rider evaluate different bikes. I’m 73 and my stable is only 3 bikes, but I still enjoy touring in the States. We are planning a Band of Brothers tour of Europe in 2026 so that gives me something to plan for. Riding keeps you young. Here in Wisconsin my motorcycling is curtailed until spring and your vids keep me sane until I can get back on. All the best, and keep ‘em coming, please!
Thank you ! Glad you are enjoying them . Spring will be here soon 👍
Another great video. I picked up my new R1250GS TE Trophy a couple of weeks ago, my first BMW since the early 90's. It is now fully run in and I'm finding it an excellent all round bike. I went for the pillion package which includes the adjustable separate seats, larger windscreen, centre stand, luggage rails and grab handles. I like the look of the rallye seat though. I also went for the aux lights, engine bars and the BMW Vario luggage system which is great. I've not ridden the bike on a dry road yet, it's not the easiest bike to clean! I still have my trusty Fazer thou' of 21 years which I will use as a winter bike, once I get over the thrill of riding the new GS.
Sounds like a nice specification bike . Yes - they are tricky to clean 😂. Have fun . Dry weather and dynamic on its way ..
I ordered the same, delivery 3 weeks away. The pillion package was a low cost switch and adds a good mix of gear, much more suited for two up usage. Not sure that Rally seat is that pillion friendly 😬. The pillion package also adds the centre stand on the low model.
I have a trophy also got the heated seats lights gold wheels and i’ve also never ridden in the dry really. It’s my second gs but quite looking forward to the dry roads now. But I agree it’s awful to clean which makes it worse with ocd😂
Nice review 👍. I rode my R1200RT today throughout Arizona….I got sick of the weather in England 40 years ago, but still love the people ❤️. I’ve been contemplating getting a GS, but I just love the RT which is so agile to ride. You can’t go wrong with a BMW
😂 Weather still wet here - as you can see .
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment ..
Try a GS ? You might be surprised at how agile they are . RT a good bike though . Nice problem to have …
@@michaelmam We rode South Africa for a week - all very experienced dirt riders.
My friends all rode Suzuki V-strom 650's - and had a great time.
I stupidly opted for one of these elephants - and had a really shitty time!
Could not wait to get off it every night!
Enjoyable informative video Michael. I'm on my first GSA1250 after a GS 1200 Rallye and a 2011 1200 twin cam GS. I'm 5'8 too but I am happy with the standard height GSA with the seat on the low setting. The fact you don't have a centre stand is a Rallye/Trophy thing and not a low chassis thing so you can get one if you feel the urge. My GS Rallye only had the side stand and I was happy with that for 4 years and 20,000 miles. I use my bikes every day in all weathers so they get filthy like yours did. I wash mine with turtle wax car shampoo, use Muk Off by diluting it 50% and on sections at a time to avoid leaving it on too long as it will mark the finish if allowed to dry. I then use turtle wax 'wax it wet' spray with a micro fibre cloth to dry and polish it and then use the Muc Off finishing spray on the engine and wheels to protect it (I think it is identical to GT85) 3 BMWs and 50,000 miles of weekly cleaning has kept them mint. Agree with others get the Machine Art front and rear fender extenders from Nippy Normans. they look OEM and work well. Lastly set up Dynamic Pro and turn down wheelie control for added childish shenanigans 😉
Great comments Neil . Thank you ..
Rallye Seat Question: Hi Michael, interesting comment from your wife on the comfort of the seat. I’m currently looking at the Trophy and looking at that set up. Having owned GS’s with the pillion package I’d be interested to know how that seat is for you solo and with your wife pillion on bigger distance days.
Tip for you on cleaning the wheels is SDOC 100 to clean and a suitable brush to agitate in the smaller areas. Wash and dry off well then with a small amount of ACF50 on a rag, wipe the black wheel. With a small brush paint ACF on the spoke nuts etc. Top tip for the axel spindle is apply car polish to keep it shiny and protected. If you want to look how a bike has been looked after, that is a tell tale for me.
Hi Sally , We haven’t really tested the seat over longer distances yet . I really like it solo but the longest ride I have had in a day is probably just over 220 miles albeit in torrential rain . Not sure how we will get on with it on a 3 day - 6-700 miler . I will let you know when we have taken it away properly this spring . We are taking the Suzuki GT to Portugal in March because I know those seats work for us and it will probably be 2000 miles . I will try the BMW on a shorter one 😂
Thank you for the cleaning tips 👍 Always looking for ways to keep the bikes looking right .
I have a 2023 1250 GS RALLY and absolutely love this bike.
I enjoy your videos Michael and look forward to another instalment. I offer a correction on the weight (13:42), I think the load capacity is c.450lb and the a quoted wet weight of the bike c.550lb, although the reality with crash bars and pannier racks will much more. Numbers which do not matter because, as you demonstrate, the low speed handling of the bike is very good.
Thanks Alan 👍 . I got it right when reviewing the spec but wrong in the carpark .🤦😂 Appreciate you taking the time to comment . The weight is carried low on the bike and as you say low speed handling is excellent 👍
Having my GS with similar wheels and 100000km now, I don't use specific wheel cleaning products. I just use a normal shampoo for washing cars and a long brush that gets between the spokes, but am not that much into cleaning it. After drying I wipe them with a semi moist cloth and they come out nice. I once got them sort of tainted by washing it on a roadside self service station, and recovered the color and finishing back by using a light amount of wd40 and a cloth. BMW sells a specific wheel cleaner spray, I would use that if facing salt on the road.
I really appreciate how you enjoy different motorcycles.
That is some proper kms!
I do find the wheels harder to keep clean than I would like but we did enjoy our recent trip around the Highlands of Scotland . I am making a video comparing the GS ( adventure tourer) to my Suzuki GT ( sports tourer) . I do enjoy riding different types of bikes - glad it comes across 👍
I have a July 2022 1250 Rallye, which I rode 2,000 miles across the Alps last September, replacing a 2014 model 1200GS. It is low chassis & has centre stand. Dynamic + Auto suspension settings is best in my view. I have fitted fender extenders, Altrider crash bars & bar risers. I loved my previous bike, but like the TFT screen even more. I have not fitted an Akra this time as the noise was just too much on longer trips, for my mates mostly. Heated seat is great especially on chilly Alpine mountain climbs. Great bike, we made an excellent choice, enjoy yours. Last thing I took the Anakees off & fitted Road 6 to reduce noise, it worked but they do squirm at speeds over over 115mph ( On Autobahn honestly)
Thanks for sharing your real world experience Nick . Sounds like you are having fun !
I have found a coating of ACF50 brings up the matt black panels on my NC750X beautifully, in fact I use it almost everywhere.
Thanks Kevin 👍 I have used it on my VStrom but couldn’t stand the mess and cleaned it all off 😂 It was perfect underneath ..
When you choose the low cost pillion kit you get the vario pannier mounts, dual seats, side stand and larger screen. It cost me about €250 on my Trophy low chassis when configuring.
Hey Michael,
Found your videos after searching for low seat height/chassis information and found it very useful. As a somewhat new rider (2.5 years) I'm sold on the GS but being slightly shorter then yourself now aware that the short options are the ones to review as I look to pick up a new bike. Appreciate your time in pulling this together and safe riding!
Glad you found it useful Shane .. it is why I make them👍
Michael you are a tough hombre riding in those conditions! I look forward to your adventures this year. By the way I found a little British hospitality right in Oklahoma USA. The new asst manager at my athletic club is from London and quite the nice young man. We were discussing the differences here and he said the wide open spaces were his biggest adjustment. Good luck in 2023!!!!
Space and fire roads /dirt tracks . I can understand why the market for adventure bikes is different in the States .. 👍
@@michaelmam In the Sierra Mountains in WA State USA where we ride out KTM 450 off-road bikes - these things would not make it 5-miles!
Huge elephant's for poseurs on the street!
I have a gsa and I put a 1000 miles after driving from the showroom and six months later I now have 14000 miles
Enjoyed the video I'm not a BMW owner, and my bike is shiny plastic SX kawasaki, so I use Muc- off to clean it down a speed wax , and ACF 50 don't use it in bad weather but occasionally get caught out , it's a 2017 and looks really good considering it's age ,
I get lots of comments how clean it is and the condition for a bike that's 6 years old shortly,
Thanks Martin . There is some satisfaction to be had out of keeping an older bike together 👍 Just off into the garage to clean a bike now ..
I have a ‘22 GS low suspension and low seat and it does have heated seat and grips. I also noticed that your headlights look different than mine.
There are a lot of different specifications . Is your bike a trophy ?
The original purchaser had the options to get, I think it's called the pillion pack, at no extra cost. You get a rider and pillion seat, taller windscreen and centre stand. I've got the 1250 rallye with the same set up.
Interesting . As well as the rallye seat or instead of ? He preferred the rallye and chose that but it is unlike him to turn away 2 free seats 😂
Instead of, unfortunately.
Glad to see that you’ve been able to put the miles in and start your conclusions. What are the criteria when choosing which bike to take? Please tell me that you are selling the old GS!
Many thanks for your time in making this video.
I tend to ride upright bikes in the winter - preferably with heated grips ! Influenced of course, by what I am planning to film . I was keen to spend some time on the GS and see how it coped and handled in , the wet . We are off to Portugal in March and as long as the weather f/cast is “ok” we will probably take the Suzuki GT as I know we are both comfortable on that . I will try a shorter , 600 miler, with the GS , two up in April . See how the seat is ..
Plan is to sell the original GS now 👍
Another excellent video. It was great fun riding our GS's together over the holidays in all weathers! As you know, I have a Givi Tanklock system that works well on my Rallye and of course mine came with a centre stand, useful as you said, for cleaning. I've put the bike away until all the salt has been washed away as I haven't the time sadly, to detail the bike back to its original, pristine condition. Keep up the great work, love the on-bike camera and the new fleece. 🫡
Looking forward to having another ride out once the salt has gone ! Thanks , as always , for watching and taking the time to comment . 👍👍
Looks good. I just picked up the GSA normal height version. Love it.
Popular bikes . Very capable . Been interesting to see the new one , later this year .
My 2018 1200 TE Exclusive is fitted with the factory low suspension kit and this came with a shorter centre stand, so maybe you can get one retro fitted by a Motorrad dealer.
Great video Michael, thank you for your effort. I decided to buy low chassis GSA after your videos 👍
I hope that it has worked out for you as well as it has for me ?
TY for this. could you share a list of the accessories that you installed or had installed?
Sure . The bike is a September 22 GS Trophy in Gravity Blue matt metallic .
Dynamic ESA
Keyless ride
gear shift assist pro
riding mode pro
GPS PREP
Seat reduction (low chassis)
heated grips
cruise control
Hand guards (with aftermarket extensions)
BMW panniers
Handlebar risers (aftermarket)
Reupholstered seat( by "Core")
@@michaelmam TY, where did you get the engine protection bar? Was that standard?
@@rjsalameh not sure . First owner must have put those on . Not on the original BMW invoice ..👍
Best bike in the world.
They sold 60,000 GS last year .. so very popular ..👍
@@michaelmam 60,000 folk found out. These elephants are too big! Too wide. Too heavy? And Too tall!
A Suzuki 650 V-strom will be a much better buy for 59,500 of these folks who now have very thin wallets!
I would avoid muck off on the wheels, My last gs was 3 days old washed it with muck off and ruined the anodising on the wheels. This current bike I have only used maguires wheel cleaner which has been great up to now.
Lovely review sir,placed an order for the same last week,hope I enjoy the same as you seem to be doing,thanks again!
My Factory lowered 1250 GS has a centre stand, so must just be a Trophy thing. Regarding the tank, I have a TE exclusive with matt black side panels on the tank. Once marked the imperfections are impossible to get rid of because polishing and marks/light scratches out then makes the paint go glossy so I had one panel replaced under warranty when that marked up. I then got the dealer (Cotswold Motorrad) to book Tony James design to fit some PPF to the panels to stop them getting marked up and they're near impossible to see so IMO well worth it.
Really helpful comment Adrian . Thank you !
I just came in from a ride. It got down to 15° F. Thank goodness for heated seats and grips.
😂
Excellent video, great info, thanks for taking the time to share. Cheers
Glad you liked it . Have a great Christmas
I also have a GSA and the NAV6, however i bought the bmw iphone holder that clips into the sat nav bracket. you can then downlaod the bmw mottorad app and the whizz wheeel works the navigation on the app. Works well for me. It also loads the routes much quicker. Finally, if you haven't tried yet, Basecamp route planning for the BMW Nav V and VI is dreadful but to date i havent found anything else that can load my route as i planned- good video and now subscribed
Thanks Clive . I like the idea of my iPhone clipping in . I use quod lock and iPhone on other bikes and where possible , I like to have a standard approach .👍
Excellent review!
Thank you . Glad you liked it .
Love the color
The centre stands are removed for serious off-road like the International GS Trophy.
For the navigation I bought a cradle that clicks in to the original bmw mount and use my phone, much better than the motorrad nav.
One of the team at North Oxford Garage said that was an option that some preferred. Is it a BMW branded kit or an aftermarket option? Thank you ..
The modern GS is too complex for my tastes. I'd rather like the basic Urban G/S. Too much tax on it in Thailand, though. Your bike is very handsome. I like the screen. Aftermarket?
I rode my R1100GS in all weathers. It is what they are for. I had it for 14 years. It was running just as well when I sold it in 2010 with 95,000 miles on it as it did when I bought it with 4,000 showing. I loved the low c of g and the low-down shove.
Don't get me on about the lunacy of net zero.
Good video.
Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment .👍 I think the screen is a BMW option ?
I am planning to do a few miles on it this year !
I've tested a low seat (and low suspension) gs te (2021), and it has a centre stand. So it's definitely possible.
A great summary of a beautiful bike… nice piece of kit! A couple of questions if you had a moment. 1) I’m looking at this bike for road use in central Florida… Hot with more air flow versus the RT… have you ever riden the RT… it would be great to have your commentary in comparison to the Suzuki GT as well. Since my use will all be on road, I’m wondering if the lower frame option would provide better stability (I am 6 feet with a 32 inch inseam).
Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Looking forward to your future efforts. Ride safe! 👍
Hi Leo , thanks for watching and taking the time to comment . Yes .. I have ridden an RT , which is a very well regarded bike but we didn’t actually enjoy it much . I felt slightly too detached but that may be because I have ridden so many miles on more naked / open bikes ? Try one?
Stability ? Personally I think the bikes moving stability is more to do with wheel base , steering rake and general geometry than chassis height . I like low seat height for low/no speed , ground contact . If you have that with a standard chassis bike you will retain the advantage of additional ground clearance with no downside? Hope this helps ?
BMW probably has a product, but Harley "Pig Spit" is magic on matt and wrinkle black parts.
Thank you . I have a few bikes with matt / black finishes . I will try some ..
lovely review like the feeling you give going throw the bike!
Thank you JW . Glad you enjoyed it ..
Went to go look at one at my local dealer the otherday, threw a leg over and was barely able to put my left foot flat footed on the ground and I'm 6'-2" with a 32" inseam.
It was priced at $26k U.S.
I'm on the fence about this bike.
Also looking at a Triumph Rocket GT and Indian Pursuit.
There are a lot of different permutations and seats . Sometimes dealers show you what they have rather than what you could have ? A lot of people are put off by the height / size ratio . I have never ridden an Indian Pursuit but the Rocket is a surprisingly easy bike to ride with a low seat height 👍 Have fun choosing ..
@michaelmam
Oh so tough to make these decisions.
I'll stick it out with my Harley Davidson Road King a little longer.
Another enjoyable and informative video mate. There's no doubting the GS' capability but I found it very bland, unlike my Katoom 1190. Be interesting to see how it fares against your GT for spirited touring.
Thanks for watching Chris . I agree . It will be interesting to compare in the dry and in the mode ..
First trip will be Portugal , on the GT .👍
i’ve had a gs for years and can assure you for a spirited ride I would happily dance with any bike on a county road. be it sports bikes, Nakeds ect the gs will be there or there about if riden properly. The kawasaki versys is a bland bike.
Btw my other bikes are ktm 690 and tuono v4 but nothing for me beats the gs at everything .
Would recommend a fender extender and rear mudguard to protect the suspension.
Thank you Paul
Nice review Michael love the GS, does the navigator v not just fit in the cradle and work along with the TFT?
Probably 😂. The latest version is a 6 . I just need to charge and install the 5 and possibly update it 👍
Thanks
I took delivery of my Triple Black GSA low chassis just before Christmas. Same height as you, and find it a dream. Mine has a center stand, as I plan to tour rather than go off road etc, although the GSA has an additional plate in the center stand for increased protection. You must buy a Mudsling to protect protect the rear shock etc, it's a godsend. Can I ask how the screen is? I am thinking of going to the rallye screen but unsure of the impact?
Thanks for watching and finding time to comment . Screen is “ok” but limited in its protection . Better than naked but the bigger version offers more …👍
I have the black Rallye Sport Screen on my 1250 GSA triple black and it looks great and works really well. Obviously you will get less wind protection but on hot summer days you will appreciate the ability to get some wind through the vents of your jacket ;-).
Nice job sir
Thank you
Amazing video, thanks. You sound a lot like the renown wildlife journalist/broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, but without the extra nice award winning punch and tone 😅. But you are still excellent reviewer thanks, so are you his youngest brother or first born son? 😂 Thanks for the great review of the 1250 Trophy, i working to buy one soon. Thanks
😂 .. it is a great bike 👍
Interesting comments about the alkaline on the aluminium, just received 5 litres of muk off, used it on my vstrom only about three times. But a bit worrying to see on the container it’s indeed alkaline based. Firstly have you ever used it and what’s your take on it being alkaline based. New to the channel and enjoying it so far , thanks in advance. Gary
I do use muc off and actually on my VStrom ! . It is strong , needs to be diluted and the time / exposure advice taken seriously . Too acidic or too alkaline ? Neither are perfect but do a job that PH neutral struggle to emulate . Use it but be careful ? Hope this helps …
Yea , I think key is sticking to manufacturers instructions and it will be ok. Thanks for your advice.👍
BMW two meny problems with transmision
@@wilsonmercado2287 sounds like you have a problem with your GS . I have 3 BMW’s at the moment . None of them have gearbox issues and neither did the one now sold . The GS’s gearboxes are pretty clunky though . Agricultural to industrial depending on the year ..
Very good channel Michael. I can relate to your content as I have some of the same bikes to you:2022 DL650, 2022 GSX-S GT, and I have also just ordered an R1250 GSA TE Trophy. In terms of the GS, I have a 35 inch inside leg measurement to the sole of my bike boot. Do you think that with the standard seat at 890mm, I will be able to flat foot on both sides? Also, I note your bike has the halogen headlight, which was a stop gap due to semi conductor and component shortages. I am sure BMW will upgrade that to the adaptive LED?
Glad you enjoy the channel . Thank you for taking the time to comment !
35 inside leg should be fine on a trophy but perhaps best to check at a dealership ? I am interested to see what BMW come up with on the lights . Off on the GT for a couple of weeks soon . Looking forward to it ..
I want this bike when I’m older but I’m very small and slim I don’t think I’ll be able to hold the bike up😂
Wonder if 23 bmw gsa worth me trading my 21 Harley ultra in for
Definitely
@@Sasa-fp6ix I do 2 up riding as well
Hello ! Did you think the weight of the motorcycle was something negative? I'm 62 years old, I'm fit, but I don't know if the weight would condition me
It is a heavy bike but the weight is low and when combined with the low chassis , I find it easy to ride and move around . I didn’t feel the same about the standard height bike but we are all different . Hope this helps👍
Tremendous similarity with Jeremy Clarkson.
😂 I do plan to keep my views on Megan to myself …
Hi , what is your height ?
I m thinking for the same bike and im 1,63 .
I am just under 5’8” but the most important measurement is probably inside leg . 29.5 inches ..
Why do you have road tyres on the trophy addition? The trophy edition is for the International GS Trophy and you have the less comfortable seat, less wind protection 🤷♂️
I bought it as a used bike - with very low miles . I am pleased with it …
What is your height?
Inside leg measurement is probably more important than height . Mine is 29.5 inches . I am just under 5’8”..
ACF 50 , Your name in Irish is Micheál = Me Hall , useless info of the day ,
Bunch of not so useful information.
since it is a low chassis version, I was expecting to see most of the information on the bike height ... seat height...etc ... nothing at all!!!
Too heavy! Too Fat! Too tall! These elephants wear you out by lunch time!
A Suzuki SV650 V-strom is a much better bike - no matter how good you think you are!
Ever actually ride one? They feel like nothing once you are onboard and moving. If they “wore you out by lunchtime”, they wouldn’t be the #1 selling bike in England. Not the #1 selling ADV bike, not the #1 selling touring bike… The #1 selling bike. Many GS owners are repeat customers, ever wonder why? The little Strom is a pretty good beginner motorcycle, but there is no realistic way to make a comparison.
@@artb1974 I am a very experienced off-road rider. Ridden 30-years in the trails in the Sierra Mountains here in Wa State in the USA. On proper Enduro bikes.
How about this for a comparison:
Last year our club rode Africa, 3-weeks. Proper off-road riding. Not pussy roads for dirt bike wannabes!
My mates all rode 650 V-Stroms - your "beginners bike" - they had a wonderful time.
I foolishly chose a BMW GS 1200. - I had a nightmare of a time with that fat pig!
3-weeks of just being glad to get off that elephant at the end of each day. Swapping over to the Suzuki for a day was like being in heaven.
They are not off-road bikes! Poseurs bikes.
80& never go off road. Take care
@@DennisMerwood-xk8wp the sv 650 is about as budget as you get. that’s a better classed commuter and nowhere near the bmw. The bm is not fat or incapable of going off-road. Your opinion smacks of someone who cannot handle a bike or cannot afford it either way they are light years ahead of any budget battle sv in any biking environment . The suzuki finish is cheap and the engine in the sv has always been about as powerful as a ride on mower. A mate of mine has an sv and it’s absolutely nowhere near any other in this class.
I live in Africa. GS rules here. Suzuki, never see them!
@@Crsf84 My opinion comes from 40-years of riding REAL off-road bikes, IT490K, XR650, KTM 390, in the mountain trails of the Sierra Mountains in WA State, USA, mate. Motocross bikes with lights! Riding that would have you on your fat BMW unable to proceed - stuck and upside down in 5-miles.
And I have plenty of money.
Those 3-weeks in Africa on that fat heavy pig was the worst off-road riding in all my 40-years.
Your opinion smacks of an elitist with an overly inflated opinion of your riding ability! I bet you would not last more than half an hour in the off-road environment we ride in. It's so embarrassing for you when, after 5-miles, four of us have to come back to find you and your fat elephant hopelessly marooned and need pulling out. Light years ahead - in your dreams mate!
I love your vids I honestly do and you make them well !! Sadly I am not in the same leauge as you when it comes to finance/ bikes etc I recently went to buy another bike a B.M.W. R850RR "OLD" I took it for a test ride and appart from feeling a little cramped in the seating position I loved it I honestly did .. Being cheeky I thought this was a good opertunity to take a newish G.S. out To be very honest as an old time biker I had much more fun on the 850 than the 1250 The complex riding modes for me are just like having someone else ride the bike for you ?? I am now getting why these Royal Enfields and others are taking off I gues if you are riding thousands of miles a year it might make sense or if you are not a competent rider that would also make sense but I feel that biking has lost its true sense of adventure has it not ??? Anyway what do I know as an old git probably nothing !! Keep them coming !!
Thanks Allan . I enjoy no technology and full on .. just have to remember what I am on 😳😂..