BMW GS 1250 Ride Review - Do you REALLY need it?
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- Опубліковано 21 чер 2023
- Are you considering buying the BMW GS 1250? Here's my unbiased review of this luxury bike.
In this BMW GS 1250 ride review, I'll share with you my honest thoughts on whether or not you need this bike. I'll also discuss the pros and cons of this bike, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to buy it
After riding the GS 1250 Rallye I got straight onto the GS 850 Sport - you can find that review below for comparison
Do you have the money to spare for a BMW GS 1250? Or is a cheaper bike more suitable for your needs? Let my review help you decide!
In this BMW GS1250 ride review, we take a closer look at the new BMW GS1250 and determine whether or not you REALLY need it. This bike is definitely a step up from the average bike, but does it justify the cost? We take a ride and let you decide for yourself!
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Here is the link to the GS 850 Ride Review for comparison • BMW GS 850 Sport Ride ... - Авто та транспорт
I bought the 1250 just over a year ago. Cracking bike. It’s a keeper.
Awesome, how many miles can you get on it is the game now!
Yes what can I say..
You have said it all...
Have a 1250 Gs Adv 2020....
Bought brand new....one owner.
Just love riding this machine.
Rain or no rain....long distance runner... due for the 160.000km service.
No issues... age 62yrs.
Awesome, glad your enjoying your machine, put many miles on it 👍🫡
I had two GS’s, first the 1200cc and when the new iteration changed for the 1250cc, I up graded and went for the latter. It was a very nice place to be with both, but at the time I wanted something more sporty and I got the SDGT . It was everything I wondered and more. And in the “more” part things went sour . The bike began to display failure messages on the dashboard every day with no reason and the Dealership only said that it was normal but they didn’t solve it. I ended selling the bike and trade it for a BMW S1000 XR pack M and it was simply an excellent bike, but the passenger was uncomfortable with the seat and finally I got my present bike, the BMW 1250 GSA rally. And I’m glad I did that. With the faster and sporty bikes, then, I was always riding over the road speed limits and with this one things are easier to refrain and control, at least for me, that’s what I feel. Great bettered engine, with shaft cam technology, paralever and telelever suspension technology which is superb for road comfort of the ride, short or longer rides, very well proven and mature model for this big bike, I got it until the launch of the new model, because the bike has everything I want in a bike and the new models have always things to correct and I prefer to buy one of the last bikes of the actual model stage, equipped with all the bits and bobs and with an attractive business proposal than to wait and buy the 1300cc next year with the raze of the price and doubts about capabilities that new models traditionally carry with them in the first two years of production. The cherry on top of the cake, is that, in fact, I don’t need more power than 136 Hp and is a known fact also that the speed limits are more and more restrictive, so my plan is to have the bike not just for commuting but to travel and tour on longer rides in absolute comfort for me and my passenger, also, and in that situation it justifies well the money spend . Nice video. Thank you.✌️✌️
Ride safe bud
Ditto,I had a 1200 gsa, switched to s100xr don’t like inline 4 engine gutless. Went back to gsa 1250 absolutely love it can’t fault it. Maybe not the quickest bike in that category but quality built. I can ride all day on it, aside from fuelling up.! Can you do that?
I recently rode from John o groats to Scarborough 9 hrs x2 stops . If your bike can do this or rather yourself on your bike,then stick with it and please let me know what it is..
Adios 👍stay safe amigos
I was about 4mins into the video, when i thought, i recognise that road..
Nice to see a video done in my area..👍
Thanks, we have allot of local content on the channel including cafes and bike nights as well as travel videos. Your welcome to join us on the road…
When looking for a bike to go solo touring and camping on a couple of years ago, I decided the Beemer 1200 / 1250 GS was very nice, but much more bike that I wanted / needed. In the end I chose a small / middleweight 650 VStrom and it suits me perfectly. Horses, courses and all that.
I think that’s a very fair assessment, when I was testing the GS’s I favoured the smaller 850
I had a ‘22 850 GS for 6 mths , nice bike but needed more punch to enjoy the bike on longer rides.
I’ve now had a 1250 GS Trophy for a few months and love it. Power, comfort and handling well worth the upgrade.
Awesome, glad you’re enjoying the 1250. May you have many happy mile’s together 👍
Same here lol, I had a 2019 850GS, it was ok but it lacked power definitely loaded up on mountains, and im not a fan of two cylinders in general, quite boring engine. Boxer is full of character.
Enjoy and ride safe 👍
@@Kevin97587they are all twins . I own a 1250 and owned a 850 and you and others are correct the 850 is pretty dull. Ideal just eat bike .
Interesting review. We have the 1200GS Rallye. My observation would be that you’re riding it like a sports bike. If you change up earlier and use the torque, the power won’t run away with you. Just so relaxing to ride like that. Comments on the quick shifter are that it can take some miles to loosen up. New it’s clunky, later it becomes as smooth as you suggested. Two-up, fully loaded, a superb bike.
Absolutely I agree with all you are saying. I like to ride my bike playing with gears, as you say the right way to use this bike is to use low revs and be very laid back.
Nice mate.. From the K1600GT went for GS1250 Adventure Exclusive....Had it 12 months.. Wife and I done 6000 miles touring so far.. I am 64... Love it.. so easy and solid. Yes BMW tax so everthing is expensive.. but boils down to what you want and need.. this is such a good alrounder. Pillion... full touring mode.. side bags.. Feels and looks brilliant. Must admit... Since the last service got a oil leak (Being sorted tomorrow) This is a workhorse.. not a racey wasp bike... the distance and touring making the bike work hard..Lots of people get sporty bikes.... razor seats.. this is such a good tourer... and the service is great from BMW..
Pleased to hear you sound happy with your bike and that BMW are looking after you well. What made you choose the GS1250 over the K1600GT?
Thank you for great review so helpful
Can i ask Which camera and microphone you use?
Thanks, we use GoPro and mic into the media mod 👍
Beautiful country side, forgot how narrow the roads are over there. Thanks for the review.
Thanks bud, where are you watching from?
Yes sir, very much enjoyed it. I am watching the GS 850 as I type this 👍. I’m in Charleston South Carolina, 🇺🇸
Amazing, Thanks for joining us on the channel, We hope to get over to the States and ride in the future! If you like the narrow roads here, check out our video on Devon, It is famous for the Lanes!
As a dad, can confirm. I love my r1250gs Rallye.
This made I chuckle!
I have a R1200GS with the tft screen .... plus a Harley-Davidson low rider s .... Two bike so far away from each other ... is why i love them both ... Great video
Sounds like now you just need a light off road bike and you are all set for any occasion! Do you find the paint is soft and marks easily on the Harley?
@ontheroadadventure No I had it resprayed black with a deep red flake
@@chrislecouteur2360 Nice one, your top coat will likely be better than the OEM Harley. Unfortunately they seem to get swirls very easily. I detail bikes for a living applying ceramic coatings to protect the bike
Spot on about the deceptive speed - I’ve got a 1200GS but am currently having a hoot on my CRF250L on holiday in North Wales
Now that is a fun bike, I have had one of these myself and had an absolute blast on it! I loved hunting out the small lanes etc.... personally i think this bike is great for adventure riding but of course it doesnt have the legs to do any long distance stuff at any speed at least anyway. How far have you travelled with yours?
@@ontheroadadventure I cheat and trailer it to a campsite, then use that as a base to tour the area 😂
@@Bannister99 Your a fan of the work smart not hard approach I see!
Love the premise of your question. I had an 2004 650 GS and a 2007 R1200 Gs (air cooled) that i rode for 120,000 K acroos Nprth America Often two up loaded...I traded to a 2006 RT which i crashed at 100Km an hour hitting a deer at 63 years old....now Returning after a 6 year hiatus. My conclusion on your question is: Depends on you...but for me The GS I had at 100 HP the 750 has 77HP. I never used more than 70% of the GS...(could not because of spped limits In North America.) The GS was a POWERFULL truck Always more of a bike than i was a rider....And I always struggled with the weight.
So my 70th Borthday presnt to myself will be a 750 GS (no interst in off |Road) . I'll save 100 Lbs and several thousand $, which i will use to buy an airbag to protect against the damn Deers.
Have you chosen a airbag yet? We have a interest in those, can’t be bad things to have
I have a R1250 GS. I have had not mechanical issues at all. Regular servicing and have had to take it into have a couple of recall issues dealt with. Use mine for touring and it is the most comfortable mile muncher!
Excellent bike for large mile munching, and if you got a good dealer that looks after you your laughing 👍
I've just come home from a 2 week tour down to Lake Como and back on a 900XR, as soon as the French roads got less flat approaching the Alps the GS's were everywhere, and there's good reason for it. I rode one when I got home and have never been more comfortable on a bike even when I was throwing it around the Yorkshire back lanes like a big supermoto...
The warranty and finance are up on the XR next month so I have a R1250GS triple black coming to replace it... They're doing some good deals as the 1300 is out soon.
As for reliability, that's only half of the story... It's how BMW deal with the customer when things go wrong which makes them stand out, keeping the customer happy matters to them... KTM stitched me up properly with my old SDGT, they delayed the booking until the bike was out of warranty then wanted to charge me full price for the repair, KTM also do not provide loan bikes in my own and a friends experience.
Rich had some experience with KTM…. A brand new bike with endless issues and returned after 20 days! You’ll do well on the GS, for long distance sensible touring it’s top of the line
I rode both. I prefer the capacity of the GS Adventure over the GS or the smaller 800. I’m riding 70/30 (on/off-road), but no terrain so challenging that the weight of the 1200/1250 is an issue. On the tarmac, I vastly prefer the 1200/1250 GSA with its weight, footprint, fuel range, etc. Ultimately, I’ll definitely stay with the GSA for years to come, until old(er) age forces me onto a K1600 or a roach couch (Goldwing).
Enjoy your ride 😊
Love your video...well said...
Great ADVENTURE BIKE...
HAVE A 2020 1250 ADVENTURE...
FROM NEW....JUST LOVE RIDING THIS MACHINE....125.000KM ON CLOCK.....NO ISSUES ❤
Amazing, do you take yours touring? Where have you been?
Yes....live in South Africa 🇿🇦
Beautiful country...lots of adventure scenery....do lots of riding with biker brothers ❤️
@@kznmotorworld395 Amazing, you have so many good places to ride there, we hope to get there one day
🇺🇸’22 GS Rallye,15K miles. Backroads at 35-65mph, US Interstates at 65-85mpg for hours. Zero issues.
No doubt these are fantastic bikes! Keep accruing those miles 👍
When you are two up full luggage, doing tours of Europe, the alps etc, I’m glad I have my 1250gsa that’s for sure
Yes I agree if you are two up regularly the 850 is not enough power
Agree mate.. Had mine 12 months.. done 5000 miles.. Scotland 500.. Wales 360... Northumberland 250... plus numerous mini tours.. off to europe in Sept.. 8 countries.. Touring on this is a dream... full luggage .. pillion... side bags... its the bike that keeps on giving joy.. Being 64 years old this is a keeper for me.
@@not-this-fartoofar3606 awesome, we love to go touring, further the better, where are you off to in September then? Sounds like a big one…
3 reasons, 1- it’s the best quality 2-Comfort 3- Value 4- 40 years Evolution 5- Passion 6- Torc 7- low gravity and finally it’s about love to Boxer engine like Porsche
your a fan then?! How long have you had yours for? any issues in that time?
@@ontheroadadventure I’ve had all kind of BMW Boxers the last 40 years! I know what I’m talking about ! My last GS was a 1150! Which is similar. Currently I’m waiting for 1300 and then I will make my decision 👌
@@bobbyjunior55 I’m looking forward to trying the 1300, I think there will be some big updates
Bought mine new in '21. Two years on and to me it's still the best motorcycle currently in production.
Amazing, will you be interested in the 1300?
Funny to note that there is warning signal (the triangle I guess) on your screen while mentioning error rates...
Yes! Was a borrowed bike
I haven’t ridden the F850, but I owned the F800 for 10 years and have now ridden my R1250 for about 12,000 miles. On road it’s the R1250 hands down. It balances so well and the added power is now a “must have” for me. Off road it’s almost a wash, the 800/850 21” front and lighter weight give it a slight nod. The 1250 handled well on the Dempster, even with the stock Anakee Adventure tires. I’m happy with the upgrade. Where I live it’s all Harley so, I actually have something unique.
are you in the states then? GS is everywhere here in the UK
Yea, Wyoming… Full of rubes on hardley ablesons ;-)
@@artb1974 Each to their own!
I found it interesting that over there in the UK, there is the viewpoint you can get away with a smaller bike/engine. Over here in the US, you could spend a week riding from one coast to the other and still not be there if you do not ride hard. We have so much distance with a pretty decent highway system that the bigger bike is the go-to if you plan on spending most of your time on the highway.
Our thinking here is to avoid the highways. We only ever use the motorway if we absolutely have to or we need to cover big miles to get to where we intend to tour. There’s no enjoyment of riding on 3 lane motorways in a straight line. We all prefer twisty A roads here. Also we have so many bloody cameras here now
@@ontheroadadventure Put it in perspective, I looked at what is the general size comparison between the UK and a US state. That comparison is pasted at the end of this thread.
Trust me, when it comes to a nice summer Sunday ride, the nice twisties in the local park, etc., are the go-to over here, but I used to work about 50 miles away from my house.
My Dad drove about 35-40 miles one way to work for about 2 decades since he switched jobs after he had already owned a house near his old job for about 25 years.
The distance in the US is oppressive compared to the UK. Not as bad as Russia, according to the French, but it's still pretty far between stuff.
Traveling to where you need to be would take a good amount of time if all you took was backroads.
So for the states, the highway system, which is usually posted at 75MPH with everyone going faster, is the go-to for normal riding.
"Oregon is comparable in size to the United Kingdom as a whole. While the United Kingdom has a land size of 94,525 square miles, Oregon has a land area of 95,988 square miles. As of 2018, the United Kingdom has a population of 66,435,550, whereas Oregon had 3,831,074 individuals as of the 2010 census; hence, the United Kingdom has a far denser population."
Fair comment
Looks like a 2019 model with GSA screen. Own a 2022 model in Oz. The extra power just reduces rider fatigue particularly on 800km days. I think it’s horses for the courses. The 850 can seem top-heavy at times; odd I know, but the boxer ‘outrigger’ type engine seems to keep the balance & weight lower down (lower centre of gravity) making it deceptively easy to manoeuvre on the road. 👍
How many miles do you have on yours? Have you found it to be reliable?
I use all of my 136 BHP on my gs hp no problem awesome bike , although I did demo a Africa twin recently and it had a great motor the rest of the bike couldn't be compared to the BMW ease of use and finish ❤
Will you be considering the New GS1300?
Hi no not for a long time brought mine @4 years old and really enjoying it.
@@neilbenton1152 If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!
RE: Choice of airbag I believe rhe Aloinestar tech 5 provides best coverage to claviule and shoulders.Broken in previous accident hitting a deer. SHoulder protection also means no need for armour in Back Chest and shoulder lowering weight of jacket.
Interesting…. Do you just change the canister yourself to rearm it or do you have to send it away? What did you pay for it?
@@ontheroadadventure have not purchased it yet but i chose this one over Klim for clavicule coverage. I crashed one in 13 years...should be the only time you ahve to recharge ...so when recharging needed if ever then it will be the least of your worries.....
@@InterimExec Fair comments
Aloinstar ??? Must be a new brand 😂😂😂
@@zh4418 maybe 🤔
YES I DO
Is there ever enough?!
your so right with speed limits and power . one can loose their license in a flash . it takes nothing for my Heritage 114 to exceed the speed limit as any motorcycle for that matter. Im now looking for a adventure up right seating position to tour with . Great vid
Have you considered the Africa Twin? I have reviews on most of the bikes in this segment on the channel
I have , but never ridden one. I dont think i would be a fan of the DCT and they are plentifull here in canada . Thx for your input@@ontheroadadventure
No we felt the DCT takes away a element of control so also went manual
@@ontheroadadventure I'm 5ft 6 ish,with a 31 in inseam, did you guys adjust the seat height? I think I may have to lower most adventure bikes .
No, you will be fine, I’m 5’7 and 30 inch leg and I can run my AT seat in high position you’ll do just fine in low bud, as does Ewa. It’s all in your confidence
Never ridden 850 or 1250. Ride a 1200. It does what I want it to. Very comfortable for a long ride. Works for me. If I was going to ride of road more I would want a smaller lighter bike.
Those 1200’s are fantastic work horses, will do you well for as long as you maintain it, how many miles have you done on it now?
@@ontheroadadventure Me around 10K it had about 40K on it when i bought it last year. Just rode it From Van BC to Tuktoyaktuk and back via Anchorage and the Alaska Hwy. So Just over a 1000 on dirt and gravel.
Old timer in Chicken asked me what kind of bike I was on. BMW he said 9 out of 10 passing through were BMW. Though a fellow came by earlier on a big Honda. Africa Twin. Then he warned me to watch out for the frost humps. He was right.
Great bike, I was very glad I was on one several times. The suspension is fantastic.
Mine is a regular 2018 GS excusive. I changed the Street touring tires out for Dunlop 50/50 and did a service. Tires still have some life left but I went through an entire service interval in 3 weeks according to the dash. Oil still looks good. Did the 250 miles from the start of the Dempster to Eagle Plains and had at least a liter or 2 left in the tank.
I missed closing time on the way back. Had to wait till morning to fill up. Even a GSA wouldn't be able to skip Eagle plains. I had and X10lt. Didn't need it. A GSA might have done the 450 mile from Inuvik with an X10lt. Or at least almost made it.
@@johnmacdonald1878 Sounds like your getting some real use out of your bike! Just awesome!
What part of England is this. Looks very pretty
This is the south west of England, Devon
Ive had two GSAs and now on the GS Rallye. Ive had no issues with any of them.
All the 1250 or have you tried the 850?
@@ontheroadadventure two 1200s and now the GS1250
@@michaelwilliams3861 will you be going for the 1300 when available? That one won’t be long now…
@@ontheroadadventure no mate, this one’s staying for a while
Its interesting, I havent spoke to anyone yet who says yes they will be upgrading there 1250 for it, what was your thoughts on it?
I had an 850 for 4 years and just traded it for a 1250GS. For road use the 1250 is a more enjoyable bike to ride. It is much easier to maneuver than the 850 even with the extra weight. The 850 is a great bike but in my opinion the 1250 is much better
I think for me the middleweight bikes are where it’s at, I can’t say the 1250 is a bad bike in anyway, it’s just personal preference I guess?
This seems one of the few exceptions of betteridge's law of headlines. Short: YES I DO
Amazing bits of kit, links in the description to see there range of kit.
How is the Garmin base wired? I mean is it connected to the USB port for power? Does the USB port provide enough juice to run the GPS? Please let me know.
Yes you’ll want to hard wire in your satnav
Thank you. Will do.@@ontheroadadventure
No problem
Chain drive bikes won't work for me, so shaft final drive only options are all I can go for. Had a V85, now a Tiger, next is GS.
Fair enough, it’s certainly not a bad bike at all!
Warranty on BMW is 3x longer than competition, at least in USA. Quickshifter on 1250 GSA smooth? Hmmm. Upshifts in higher gears and down-shifting w/o throttle yes, otherwise not quite so smooth!
I’m not sure what the warranty is here in the uk. I’m surprised everyone moans about the quickshifter, I’ve ridden many many bikes and have allot of experience and I really rated these.
I've got the Moto Guzzi V85TT Travel,and I don't imagine I'll be parting with it anytime soon.👌👍
Have you had it a while then?
@@ontheroadadventure
Almost a year
@@travelinben1966 Excellent, enjoy and see how many miles you can get on it!
@@ontheroadadventure
10k so far.👌
@@travelinben1966 good effort, keep em coming! 👍🏍️🏍️
Quick shifter on GS is great. On the S1000XR it’s even better. Like butter!
I was very impressed by the quick shifter on the GS1250 - do you own both bikes?
@@ontheroadadventure My friends and I have been renting the GS for 3-5 day adventure trips along Highway 1 in California 3 or 4 times now. And couple of months BMW Motorrad truck showed up at our local BMW dealership with a Demo Day where you can ride every single bike they have to offer and I was pleasantly surprised with the S1000 __ models and their transmission setup. Needless to say, the GS is still superior when it comes to down low and mid range torque and the overall utility for everyday riding.
Keep posting great motorcycle videos!
@@aleskiy Thanks! I try to attend demo days too, it’s so good to experience as many bikes as possible and I like to bring the review videos to the channel for those who don’t get the opportunity to ride the bike themselves. Thanks for joining us
I have a 2021 and it makes a terrible noise all day long coming up from end area. Has done it since new, got noticeably worse when I went from 90 10 to 50 50 tire. Any ideas?
Have you taken it in to be looked at? I know these had a recall for the shaft drive, did this include yours?
@@ontheroadadventure I had that all apart for spring service. I have never brought it in, 5 hour drive to BMW dealer. Its in the frt, I believe its the tire just about ready for a change now. Just curious if anyone came across this noise before. Its so loud I have a hard time hearing my SENA when chatting on the road. Original text should of said front end area. I have disassembled frt end partially and nothing stands out. Feel the vibration on the ignition switch that matches noise. Slight lean around corners noise disappears which indicates tire. Road many bikes and this is new for me.
@@shawnbecher2661 heck headbrace bearings and wheel bearings
@@ontheroadadventure Thks, I’m changing tires for now and see what happens. If that don’t do it to BMW I go. Bearings smooth and tight. Since new. If bearing failing since new don’t think I would of got 10000km.
@@shawnbecher2661 Hope it’s just the tyres bud, best of luck finding the issue
Buy the 1250 it will be the last bike you will ever own
A great bike I agree but for me the middleweight bikes do the big enough to tour and be comfortable but are also still fun to ride hard. I found the 1250 was very effortless and smooth but didn’t bring me joy.
@@ontheroadadventure to be honest I did own a gs1250 but sold it after a year it was to comfortable and smooth which made it boring, brought a KTM now that puts a smile on your face
KTM soon wiped the smile off my face lol
@@ontheroadadventure haha yeah I know I have been following your videos
awesome, thanks for joining us - Ive gone for honda this time!
It's a highway queen for sure.
Nice but not for me this one
@@ontheroadadventure Agreed
Having owned a ktm 1290/1190r and 3 BMWs r1200gs/r1250gsa/and my new bmw r1250gs ultimate edition I honestly prefer it to anything else yes I’m old but I have a Honda cbr1000rr 2006 and a mt09 2023 model and in total the bmw is my60th owned motorcycle , nothing is perfect but some are certainly better than others 🤕
How was your KTM experience? Mine was not so good! Did you see the video?
i have had 3 ktms never had a single problem great bikes engines are awesome i just feel the gs with a shaft for long distance riding and the handling tips the balance for me to be honest all bikes made these days fantastic well except for 2 triumphs i had but thats another story
Its strange how no matter the brand theres always some bikes in every model that just seem to be lemons - Friday bikes if you will.... My KTM was awful, so bad i returned it to the dealer within 20 days for a refund. My triumph was great until a chain snapped and ruined the engine - Next up is my Africa Twin, Time will tell how this one goes
Wierd that when we choose a bike we have to go into a catergory.
Why can't we just buy the bike we like, regardless of what type/style it is?
So many comments on vids about owners never taking their GS offroad etc, who cares, it's a very good road bike too.
I own many pairs of trainers/sneakers like many people do, but ive never ran a marathon in them and i bet not many people do, we buy them because we like the way they look and they're comfortable, bikes are no different, they serve "our" purpose, not other peoples.
I don't own a GS and can't stand Ewan & Charley thingy, but ive ridden a GS and thought it was a very good bike, like many bikes ive ridden.
I normally ride sportier stuff and i ride at a quick pace and i was suprised at how capable the GS was and it's only a "dad" bike if you want it to be and that's fine.
I made this point exactly whilst doing some off road on our Africa twins… they are sold as adventure bikes but the reality is they are tourers. They are too big, heavy and expensive for off road treatment by most normal riders
Is that windscreen broken/shaved
Yes the screen was shortened
best ever !!!!!!!!!!!!
You’re a GS fan then? What do you think of the new one?
@@ontheroadadventure Be already fan and driver for more than 20 years.
Have just bought a new one GS 1250 with options.
You didn’t fancy the 1300
There is a general consensus that there are two dad bikes. The GSA and the Harley FatBoy. I own both! 😂😂😂. They were both dream bikes of mine over the years and my kids are grown and out. I’m divorced. So hey! Why not?!!
Sounds like you are owning the dad bike category! Both are fantastic bikes tho. Which is your favourite to take out?
@@ontheroadadventure The FatBoy is easier because it’s low and easy to sit on and flat foot it. The GSA is more comfortable on rough roads. Both have gobs of low end torque. My FatBoy is the S model with the 110 ci Screaming Eagle engine. It’ll scoot on down the road too. I guess it depends on what I’m going to do that day. Both are really fun. I’d have to say the GSA is my favorite though.
@@Kornholeeoo both fantastic mile munchers, hopefully you get to do some touring in them
Im really confused. Ive been looking at getting into an Adv bike and was looking for a good road cruiser with the ability to take me camping every now and then on more off beaten paths. The GSA really appealed to me so have been watching a ton of videos on them. I get so many mixed reviews though. This guy says the quick shifter is amazing while others say the quick shifter is complete trash and everyone knows it. Some say the power is great and others say its bad, then one guy will say the seat is amazing and the next will say its a trash seat. I dont get it. Why so many contradictory reviews on one bike. All of the reviews Ive been looking are of the 2021 and newer since Im looking at buying brand new. Maybe even wait for the 1300GSA when it comes out. Or get a discount on the outgoing 1250GSA. I just dont understand. I have not ridden this bike as I let my bike endorsement expire so I have to go get that again. Then I can take it for a spin. My local BMW dealer was great and said as soon as I have that we can go for a good cruise and see how I like the bike. Even said we can take a few models out if Id like.
The best thing is to ride the bikes you like and then choose your favourite, your opinion is most important over any review
I too watched all those same videos as you mentioned. I bought a '23 and I knew I was going to be the new owner of it 5 miles into the test ride. Quick shifter is butter smooth up AND down. Slow speed maneuvering is effortless. Torque is everywhere. The seat... I am 140 lbs at 6 foot tall. So I swap the seat out on every bike I call my own. The seat isn't bad, (and I'm still using it) but I'm also surfing the web for its replacement. It might be 6 months down the road, however I already know I'll find myself sitting on one thats a wee bit more user-friendly for my narrow back side. I'm 1500 miles in and the breaks are my only (kinda sorta) complaint. Maybe I didn't burn them in properly during the break in stage. I cant quite put a finger on it but they seem to be a smidgen soft in the front. Keep in mind I'm still in the early stages of this new found relationship and we're still learning each other's habits. Im still playing with tire pressures also. That can be some of the problem on my perticular road ways. Im not changing pressures every other day mind you. Its a slow process so to speak. Remember, its almost like we're a brand new couple learning to dance for the first time.
I heard so many reviews of ppl complaining and being so picky. I'm writing this to tell you I'm over the moon with my decision to purchase this GSA. Its a big step for me to choose any bike. I'm one of those that are extremely picky when it comes to my bikes. I can truthfully say (at this stage in my life)
"I can't wipe the smile off my face"
51 years old and I've been a bike guy all my life. This bike is best described as the goldwing of adv bikes, even though there might be a couple little things that I may be disappointed in (windshield mainly). This time next year, when I've had a full year to learn the good and the bad, I may have more info but for now, this bike has put a smile on my face even when I'm just riding to work. Hope this helps. Get them license and twist the grip off of'it
@@arai4176 There’s nothing more joyful than hearing someone so happy with their machine! No bike is perfect but it sounds like yours is pretty damn close for you! Enjoy it my friend
@@ontheroadadventure true. I just signed up for a MSF course by me. The class is end of July. The only thing that won’t tell me I think is the reliability of a particular bike. Everything else I can get from a test ride I think. Except maybe long ride comfort.
@@redman2751 awesome, ride it as long as you can get away with before making a decision
Best QS, ever!! 😂😂😂😂😂
This one was seemless
Lol, I recognise that ‘modified’ screen
“There are many like it but this one’s mine”
You are on a 2020 BMW R1250 GS HP. It even says HP on it. It is NOT the Rallye.
What makes you say that?
@@ontheroadadventure It’s pretty obvious. Plus, I also have the same bike, so I know what I’m talking about.
@@leighchapman935 awesome 😎
@@leighchapman935 wow.. so aggressive.. possilby the first time you know what your talking about...
@@leighchapman935 now I’m curious, what’s the difference between the HP and the Rallye ( I have the latter)?
If all roads were like these, the 1250 would be insanely overpowered. Here in the States you can use a lot more of that power.
What’s the speed limit over there?
Up to 75 on interstate
@@JackHumphrey Ok that’s more or less the same here, 70mph here on motorway
😅 50 bhp can get you to 75!
The only decision is whether you have enough money to pay the extra money for the 1250 over the 850.
The weight and height are virtually the same - but 1250 has so much more. If you're worried about too much power????? that is what your right wrist is for.
Personally I find something much more engaging about riding bikes that feel like they have less power, it gives you the chance really ride it, play with the gear box and wring its neck… I’m not saying the 1250 GS is a bad bike but the 850 would be my choice over the two for my needs
They actually think they need 140+ bhp... makes them feel better... especially on a knarly track 😅
@@keithdixon3896 I shouldn’t laugh but.. 😂
Im 28, bought a GSA 1250, had it 3 weeks. Lost £2,200 in that time with selling it as bought it blind on the back of many positive reviews, quickly discovered it's not for me. Too heavy, not a fan of the boxer, stereotyped every time i went to a bike meet(being too young) the GS community were also so far up their own arse, always criticised other bikes and nothing was as good as a GS 🥱 in their eyes.
I much preferred the XR, 9GT+ and SDR GT/SAS over it.
99.5% of UK GS owners never go off road which makes me laugh, even scared to get the bloody things dirty. We ride what we like.. just the GS wasn't for me.
The amazing thing about motorcycles is that we all like different things, to us it’s not what you ride only that you do ride that matters
why would you say your stereotyped? I'm 24, own an F900r and thinking of a used 1250gs...
@faridb40 It's little comments people make when I go to bike meets about being too young for the GS. 'It's an old man's bike, why you riding one of those'. Always ignored when riding past other riders. It's a shame really, but if it's a 1 bike garage, don't go for the GS for our age group.
@@inked-96 how did you like the gs? and what did you swap it out for? i’m leaning towards it because it’s an all around bike that i can commute on and have fun with it
and tbh ppl opinions don’t really matter, they’re doüches most of the time anyways
@faridb40 As much as I agree, people's opinions are invalid. It does start to get annoying when you're put into this GS gategory. I settled on an XSR900 just to get some summer riding in. I wanted to get something more touring to go alongside it, but as I have a new business idea, a 1 bike garage is all I'll have to work with for the time being, so the XSR will he sold in a couple months and I'll likely pick an XR1000 up. People don't like the low down torque but recently road a mates one which was tuned by BHP UK and it was night n day difference. Can still go for a blast at weekends, csn still tours, sounds a lot better than a GS, and for my age. It's just, overall, more fun. But again, everyone is different mate.
I have to ask everyone tbat owns a GS, how old are you?
I don’t own the BMW GS I just reviewed the bike from my point of view
@ontheroadadventure Noo I know, I'm just curious as to how old everyone is that owns one bud
@@Inked_CR Ah no worries
That’s strange about the quick shifter. Everyone says it’s one of the clunkiest quick shifters in the market ??
The one on the bike I rode was fantastic especially at higher revs
My 1250 GS is a bit clunky at low rev when going from first to second gear, but for the rest it is super s,other.
@@jlg5742 I’m pretty sure quick shifters are designed for 2nd gear and up, it will be clunky going through Neutral too
Hi there, I've owned several done crazee miles on them as you see by my Channel. "Caledonian Biker."
Best bikes I've owned and I've had more than 50 big capacity machines over the years.
The 1250's Torque allows you to ride in a much higher gear than most other bikes giving it a super smooth feel.
The Best all rounder I've owned by far.
Nice, enjoy your machine. It’s great that we all love different types of bikes, would be very dull if we all had the same!
If you’re going to tour, you need it.
A great touring bike for sure
“Dad bike” like hell. Watch Dad stick to the sport bike’s ass and then leave him in the dust when the asphalt ends. Go home sonny. Mommy is calling you. 😮
Your a fan then of your GS I take it!
@@ontheroadadventure Just a little 😁.
Some bikes do SOME things better. Not so sure that there is one that does as many things as well. I haven’t ridden it yet anyway. And that includes the KTM, Ducati, Triumph, and Honda adventure bikes…among others.
@@davidkendall1614 Watch my owners experience video of the KTM, I had the 890 brand new, lasted 20 days before I returned it for so many reasons!
@@ontheroadadventureWatched all 6 Richard. It was heartbreaking to see your initial excitement and enthusiasm for the new bike shattered by your multiple issues with the KTM. I love the 890 and was considering the Super Adventure 1290R before I bought my GS. Sadly you are not alone in your experience. I watched a series of videos from another guy in the UK who was at wits end with his 1290 and returned it. Not good for the price we are paying for these things. Addendum: It was actually a 1290 Super Duke GT…check out DSR “Return to Sender” if misery loves company.
@@davidkendall1614 You are spot on, I wanted it to be good so badly that I let my heart rule my head and I put my faith in KTM. Never again! Il check out his videos
Do you really need all that power?🤣😂🤣
Am I convincing you or me?!
@@ontheroadadventure I have never heard that statement from one of my fellow red blooded Americans!!!🇺🇸💪 except for liberals!!!!!
@@tracey38999 lol well I’m English so different story!
GSA is better, more wind protection and longer fuel range! 👌
For me personally i ve not been a fan of the huge fuel tanks, i just have no need of all that extra range, i agree it provides more wind protection but at the cost of added weight. have you been anywhere when you have required the extra range tank? we love to travel but havent found that need yet
Definitely an Old guys bike.. but it's ok
For when we are old and wise??!
Like watching paint dry! Far too boring. I would never buy one of these bikes.
Every tool has its job I guess, I don’t think they are bad bikes for long distance touring but like you, I don’t want one!
That screen has to go.
I believe the screen was modified so as not to be in the eyeline of the owner
Ego bike....look at me everyone Im Charlie Boorman?...Long way around was a documentary on not what to take on a adventure tour....a Bloated overweight not very reliable overcomplicated tourer
The best series to ever happen to BMW!
what part of this bike says ego? i assume you ride a harley
@@faridb40 Very few people need a 30L tank but most buy it because they want to have the biggest bike available I guess 🤷♂️