For the price of that bike. You could get a 2nd hand bike for €5000 with low mileage, spend €5000 On all you motorbike gear and accessories and €5000 On a long motorbike road trip some where around the world and still have some money left over for the next trip. But it's still a nice bike.
Trigger Finger i'm sure plenty of people will buy these bikes. On a pcp it's probably not much per month. I bought an f800gs with all the toys paid £10k. In 2014.
Chris Hart. I agree someone will buy this bike. And its probably not that much per month. However, I personally feel that amount of money could be better spent else where. I'm currently doing my bike test here in the UK so buying a new bike for me is out the question plus the wife is already PISSED I'm getting a bike. if she found out I spent 15k on a bike I may as well ask the dealership to kick me in the nuts as I leave. I'll be in the 2nd hand market as a new rider. I get it dude. This is going to be some ones bike soon and I would love this bike as my 1st bike. Maybe in 15 years when the kids are all grown up and the wife calms down I'll have a new bike.
That’s pretty much all the attention I’ll give this bike. Thanks for the review, Pavlin. You just told me all I wanted to know. Of course it’s a superb piece of engineering, and of premier quality. But it’s heavy, expensive, costly to equip for serious travel, and it will sell just fine for the marketing people. The aftermarket industry will go into overdrive to sell their share of ‘essential’ extras as alternatives to the BMW catalogue, all dripping with superlatives telling us how we must have this and that. It’s a proven cycle, and a bandwagon I prefer to avoid. No decent screen as stock. Again. At least the tank is back where it belongs.
Thank you. It‘s always a pleasure to listen to your frank reviews. This happens to be one of my favourites, and I‘ll see how I like it when I take it for a test ride. It is too easy to quibble about the price, but quality does have its price and so does prestige and the brand name. The services have to be done by BMW if you want to keep the warranty, otherwise any good mechanic can do it. The BMW service is only important if you want to maintain the resale value high. Clearly not a budget option, but it is a quality machine, a luxury. The more people there are that can afford this kind of luxury, the better. If more wealthy people spent their time and money going around the world in very expensive motorcycles, it might also make the world a better place for all.
Hey Pavlin, thanks for all your input, your reviews and your tips. I followed most of your advice and just came back safe from two weeks of riding from Munich to Montenegro and back. No issues with the bike or the rider. Best Regards :-)
Good review there Pavlin. The fuel tank is far too small and the price is crazily high. I think I will stick with my great value for money VStrom 650 which can do everything the BMW can do but is thousands cheaper. Ride safe.
Agree 100%, bmw way too expensive, I also loved my vstrom 650 (R.I.P ☹️), always enjoyed the ride home from test rides more than the tests, almost perfect bike for 1up distance on tarmac
I agree Pablo. That BMW is no doubt a quality bike, but expensive. I have a V-Strom 650, and have enjoyed the labor of love suiting it to my liking and needs. Your videos have also confirmed my choice to go with an affordable bike, because expensive isn't necessary to get to enjoy the world on two wheels. 👍
Nikki Holland hy, this is not a suzuki, this is a BMW, the quality is really higher, so it is not so cheap. Sorry, the Storm is a good bike, but you safe your money for a lot of details. Buy the BMW, or not, your choise
Hello Pavlin. Another great video. Thanks. I’ve watched many of your videos. Sometimes more than once, and there are still so many more I haven’t watched. You have reviewed many bikes and you address them all pretty consistently. i was wondering if you had a leader board for all these bikes? Thank you kindly. Yeah, i’ve changed my avatar and screen name.
Another frank and honest review - thank you. If you ever run out of ideas for a video maybe you could interview and test ride bikes owned by other adventurers like yourself - like a review of what 2nd hand bikes to buy (self interested as currently looking but with a very limited budget!) - with all the different modifications and tips they have done!
Hi Pavlin. I´ve got the 09 F800 GS with a 16L tank. When touring I´m able to do almost 400km on one tank if I avoid highways and speeds over 100km/h. I don´t recon the range are as bad as you may think on this one. The reserve tank on mine is 4L and every F800 GS owner knows to calculate the range by the trip meter and not the computer or the fuel gauge. Cherrs!
BMW was seen as having a good warranty in the industry not long ago. I remember when they tried East German con-rods on one of their later K-bikes. The shop had to return the whole engine to Berlin. BMW seems to do well with engines they part out completely, but I haven't followed any forums lately.
i have a 2017 F800GSA 2300 miles i like it alot but recently it sputters and stalls on me. bad gas?? im taking it to the dealership. but my 2016 KLR woth 8300 miles had this problem only one time.
My Tracer 700 is probably half the price of the full spec BMW, it has a better screen, is much lighter, and costs very little in terms of servicing. Yamaha should have introduced rider modes for the 2019 GT version, though.
Why not considering The Tiger 800? Very comfortable, build like a tank (several people used it to travel around the world), real smooth engine, light and agile, 19L tank at around 5L/100 km (in my personal experience). The XC-version is perfect for off-roading. It's my second Triumph, and definitely not my last! A little while ago I met this older guy who had 2 Explores over 8 years time, and 1 GS during 1 year. He said the GS had costed him more over 1 year, then the Explorers during 8 years! Issues all the time with the Beemer, and they cost a fortune!
I'm split between the two. GS750 & GS850. Still undecided which one is the best choice for my next adventure in a planned Trans-Indonesia ride My riding is expected to be 60:40 60% on the road 40% off road Any suggestion??
I bought a fully equipped small camper van for that price. Absurd paying 15000 Eu for essentially two wheels and an engine even with a BMW sticker! Crazy. I'll buy a Honda or Yamaha equivalent, but nice review Pavlin
All the comments here have one on the screen: the price. Buy a BMW, got a BMW. Like cars, buy a Porsche or Mercedes and you got one of the best in quality. But you have to pay for that. Safe a lot money and buy a old Sokda. Last week on a 1000 km trip to Austria, there are lots of GS, on the streets, do you think, they are all crazy? No, they are not. By the way, Im riding 2 years GS, and now Yamaha XJR. BMWs are very good bikes for long trips in Europa
Great review but, have to agree with most of the comments.. Too expensive 15L ? Screen? Weight? If I am buying new, cb500x please. 500 euro on protection for underneath and that'll do nicely thanks.
Well CB500X is absolutely different category with almost no off-road capabilities, very short travel of suspension and purely road sized wheels. It is better compare it with its real competitors: Africa Twin or Triumph Tiger XC. If I want lightweight very capable enduro which can also do some traveling I would definitely wait to next year for Yamaha Tenere 700 or KTM Duke 790 Adventure. These bikes will be pretty impressive.
Here in the USA we do not have that model BMW. we have the 800 then the 1000 so I can't test ride it. I see from the comments that your patrons really do not prefer the BMW. I have two more years to chose a new bike. I am on my seventh bike now. the last two were BMW.
Never heard as much wind noise in your other reviews. BMW are, as usual, wanting to ramp up the price with optional extras that are standard on other makes.
ESA suspension is not a standard item for the 850 gs in the states. Wind screen is awful, foot pegs are not ideal. 3rd party options for screen and footpegs are superior but cost a ton, fyi I own one of these. Quick shifter works amazing. Hand guards are not standard item either. After market addition of ESA is really expensive, about 2600 USD. The factory protective plate on the bottom of the bike is pretty crappy.
@22:22 for that money you can get the 2020 africa twin, the non adventure sports manual one, with crash bars and tall windshield and engine guards. And that's a lighter, more powerful and probably a more off road capable machine. Also I would guess cheaper to run and more reliable. Yeah, you would loose the electronically adjustable suspension and tubeless tires but , really ...
Dear Pavlin, I am not sure what you are talking about but my insurance cost me 100 EURO a year for the old F800 GS. Also the yearly inspection normally costs me more or less 250 EURO at BMW. Only in case of valve inspection it is a more or less 400 EURO. (every 20.000 KM) After riding 65.000 KM there was nothing to repair except the normal changes of Oil, Chain aso.
An old F800GS is going to be a lot cheaper obviously. With a brand new bike you really need maximum coverage because of the high value. Yearly inspection cost of 250 EURO is a LOT in my opinion. Especially because you can (and should) do 90% of that yourself.
I really like your reviews and testrides on different adventure bikes but I was wondering about how you define a „middleweight adventure bike“. Because you called the Husqvarna 701 a middleweight as well and there is nearly a 85kg difference to the F 850 GS. Because of that I would say the Husqvarna is a lightweight, but for example the XT660 is rather a middleweight. And everything above 200kg is a heavy bike in my opinion. Because I think weight is the most important attribute when it comes to offroad riding. If you define in terms of power and engine displacement I agree with you. Then the lightweight bikes are bikes like CRF 250 Rally, WR 250 R or GS 310 and CCM GP 450. And everything with 600-1000ccm would be middleweight. I would like to hear your „definition“ of a lightweight respectively middleweight adventure bike. And good luck for your upcoming adventures!
Yes, I define regarding their engines. Light everything up to 500cc, middle weight up to 900cc, heavy weight 1000 + cc It is just my own category, no need to be perfect.
Brilliant review. Thank you! That bike's too expensive and big for me and has too many features. I'd love to hear what you think about its smaller sibling, the F750GS. Many reviews concentrate on the 850 but I wonder if the 750 is the hidden gem.
not sure why everyone's comments are about high costs. It's a BMW, it's a brand image. They aren't going to give it away. For those that don't want to spend the $ there will be just as many willing to spend it. That's why you have many other options available from other makes. M-B vs Toyota, same argument.
Hi Pavlin, the GS 800 is a nice and surely extreme durable bike in the well-known premium BMW-quality. But also as ever from BMW, there are much to much useless, but expensive old-man-gimmicks, wich nobody needs... but you have to pay for it. And the additional pricelist is like a never ending story.... Ride safe, Hans
Just an observation, KTM 1290 Adventure R with 15 liters of fuel in the tank will weigh 232 kg, this motorcycle weighs 229. This classifies it as a heavy motorcycle, not an average weight.
Motorcycle Adventures maybe they should be called otherwise? because the term refers to the weight and not the displacement volume or engine power. Just the classification by displacement of the engine can be quite arbitrary, and its weight is always weight. When classifying by the volume of the engine, it turns out that the Urals with an engine of 500 cubic centimeters will fall into the category of light motorcycles with a weight of 300 kg, and KTM 690 enduro at a weight of 140 kg will be in the middleweight, in the same place where this bmw.
Hello, I've been following your videos for a long time, thank you so much for putting the effort. I'm preparing for a 4 days trip and I'm concern about the soft bag, I just realised I don't have anything to lock it (it's a Givi EA115BK with a Roll Top), I wonder if you have any tips and accessories in mind so that I can protect my gear, I was planning to bring my camera but maybe some times I don't need it and was wondering of leaving my stuff in the bag (let say... while going for lunch). Thank you for your time :)
This bike is designed for industrialised countries. What exotic metals are in the frame? You would need a diagnostic computer to find the faults on this bike, much prefer analogue.
не надо путать ОСАГО и КАСКО. Не 1500р в год КАСКО в РФ It is sure as hell NOT Vollkasko and not even a Teilkasko alternative - it's russian Haftpflicht price at best. I guess, you meant Vollkasko @ 2k/year, Pavlin?
I'm really struggling to choose between an F850GS lightely used, or brand new tiger 850 sport. I think it will just come to the dealer network, which on this point bmw wins. In belgium we have motorrad dealers everywhere
Hi, Pavlin! It is not necessary to say, but you did the job as usual...! Good bike indeed! 60 km/h on second gear and 57 km/h on fifth! I like it (it is like mine Honda CB600F)! Regarding that SOS button: it is very good and important for the safety idea. But do you know how it works? Does it use GSM network, which means SIM card/operator/payment (and 112 is universal only in EU, in other countries it is different number like 911), or it uses some specific BMW network (radio? which couldn't be available all around the world!). I.e. is this feature really practical? Especially for that additional price...? Ride safe!
It seems like a good bike, but the price of all the extras takes it to the same level as Triumph's 800 XCA, and the BMW doesn't even have adjustable front suspension and I'm not sure the ESA works on the front. It's also 20 kgs heavier than the Triumph. I wonder if BMW isn't just going to price themselves out of the market?
Of course, you can make anything work but the small tank would be a challenge for an ADV rider where I live. (Alberta Canada). I think I would skip this bike for that reason and look at the competition.
Another "adventure" bike with a too small tank, the old 800 Adventure model had a 23 lt tank. Unfortunately the new 850 GS won't be released in Australia till 2019....so we can't even check it out to justify the purchase.
Would be really nice to know about average fuel consumption and maybe a cheaper alternative that can do the same job but maybe with less style. Still, useful review, Thanks
Motorcycle Adventures I have a Honda Deauville, great for the asphalt not sure ai can go where the F850 can. This is what I was asking for, an adventure bike that can do a similar job, but cheaper and maybe just as or even more reliable.
Hi Pavlin, you mentioned the fuel tank is 15L and the windscreen needs to be higher..... Have you tested out the F850GS Adventure bike with 23L tank and higher windscreen protection. The weight for GS Adventure is 15KG more heavier at 244KG. The main factor for you is the price??
The 244 kg are just a joke, try to pick up the monster alone on the Pamir Highway (+luggage!!!). They should have planned something on par with the KTM 790 Adventure: around 200kg and a bigger fuel fanów.
@@zerotonine807 I think Pavlin made up his mind on the midrange motorcycle. More functionality travel from A to B. Cheap price and light weight. Yes something like Yamaha Tenre 700 or KTM 790 adventure. However, one caveat is he may need to find common parts around the world.
This would be the perfect bike for me. I don't mind the weight, I never ride alone offroad, but the price, man... If you add a proper windscreen, and hard cases, it would cost a fortune. Maybe a second hand one for me in a few years time.
this is a sport model , they havent made an adventure version yet .., tubeless wheels is an awesome feature i have to admit , and cruise control is a great long distance hwy comfort feature .., but too expensive for me , but if you can afford it (and all the extra associated costs) , whats there left to complain about ?
True , a friend of mine here in Australia that has a 2016 f800gs trophy (in still newish condition) , has told me he is buying an 850 (the day when it is eventually in Australia - likely in October) and with all the added optional extras - no mater what. I suggested to him to keep riding his current (capable) bike for another year, and then get a ktm 790 adventure or the new yammie T7 when it comes out , or at least wait till it comes out to check them out before deciding on the 850 .., but he says a firm NO , and insists he's buying an 850 the day they arrive in Australia and told me that's that ! .., so yes I know what you mean :)
I remember you saying that the Africa Twin was going to be your next bike. How do you compare this to that? (Not the heavier Adventure Sports). Will the AT still be your next bike?
Double price than a Kawasaki versys 650.......is to much...i totally agree with you...a new car can cost lesssssssss than a 2 cilinder engine on a nice frame and somme gadgets....a new 4x4 Duster fully loaded with air conditioning....ha ha ha....
Great bike, I rode the older model. Very agile for the weight, smooth engine but a bit too high for my stature of only 5.9" (1,76). a bit pricey too :o
Good review. Thank you Pavlin. I agree that it's far too expensive if you also have to pay to equip it for adventure or long distance riding. Perhaps, straight out of the box, it's just a very nice commuter?
14k to 15k? I would rather buy a good frame from a Transalp or Africa twin, buy an engine and refresh it, rebuild the bike from the ground up with WP in the front and Ohlins in the rear.
Pavlin, as always an honest review given the restrictions you had when you borrowed it. I am really looking forward to the 1250GS in 2019 but i am afraid BMW are pricing themselves out of the market. I believe this insidious, add-on campaign they have with all their ranges is going to eventually bite them in the rear end. Presently, they claimed you can but a GSA for around £14,000, but everyone know when you spec it up you are circa £20,000. God knows what the 2019 GAS will cost. Thanks for sharing and ride safe. Keep safe, kindest regards. A82 Joe.
BMW targeting very specific group of riders and they do it really well. It doesn't mater what me or many like me think, they will still sell much better than the rest of the brands, because as I said they are great with marketing. Quality and functionality....most of the new "Adventure riders" don't even worry about it as longer they are able to jump on their new toy...
they are nice bikes but the riding position is not for me i feel my arms are stretched out too much , they are expensive to run and maintain compared to my current bike which i prefer looks wise and comfort wise ...
@@motorcycleadventures you test rode one and some of your Indian friends have them so yes Pavlin , all i need for it now are some engine crash guards and i am done for the next few years until my loans paid off and i get the new version whatever that will be in 4 years :)
Good review,Pavlin. Nice bike but for my wants and needs too many bells and whistles and way,way too expensive. I think the basic "entry level" version is £9200 in the UK. £9200 and you don't even get a decent screen or centre stand!! Not that I particularly want the add on toys and luxuries anyway but like you said, they all cost more. No,what I want is a basic,no thrills or frills,simple,economic cheap 400/500cc all rounder. I'm tempted by the R.E. Himalayan but am a little concerned about build quality and reliability. And if I'm honest,I'd like just a little more top end and cruising speed than the Himalayan. Dont get me wrong I'm sure the basic entry level bmw would do me fine. But not at £9200! Looks like I'll be trawling through the secondhand pages again!
Motorcycle Adventures I think you're right there,Pavlin! And yes,I agree,they do all the options and after sales add ons very well. I've mentioned this before I know but I'd be very interested in your view of the top level RallyRaidcb500x. See if you can get your hands on one for a review. Best regards.
I ride a Kawasaki Versys 650 so I might be a little spoiled with my 21l tank, but 15l for a "medium weight adventure" (my Versys is already too heavy for my liking) bike just doesn't sound like enough. All those bells and whistles just don't make up for the weight and poor range in my opinion, especially on a bike that expensive. Looking forward to the KTM 790 and 490 Adventures
It is overpriced, there are many better bikes, that is obvious, but the quote for 2018 is already sold. As I said in the video BMW are very good in marketing...
I was so excited about this bike, but I am disappointed. The bike is too heavy for me. It's a BMW so the price is going to be high - don't like that so much either. So, I guess the only bike left is the new Tenere 700. I don't think I need more than 50 HP and I hope the weight is no more than 180 KG. Thanks for an excellent review.
Much price, less reliability (1200 units retry from Italian dealers for engine fails), much weight, these huge can of coke for exhaust pipe, chinesse engine in a German dress bike... I'd rather ride your tenere 660.
I wonder have you ever tryied new africa twin ? i really would like to hear your opinion about it, even if by engine size "it is too big with 1000 cc" but it looks like its really light weight to handle, and cheap to maintain :)
Don’t let them see you dropped it in a ditch, they might increase your premium. I only ever do third party, fire theft, if I break it I fix it. £100 per year, but a nice bike like this, yeah full cover would cost but necessary for sure.
i think one with less doo dahs be more affordable who really needs electronic suspension adjustment or shift assist ect if your that lazy you cant use clutch maby you should be rideing a moped he he just saying
i like to say in regards to cost the old saying you get what you pay for rings true im riding a 20 year old r 1150r from 2001 its still a nice ride and still looks like new so .// ?
I thoroughly enjoy watching this guy talk bikes. Top notch reviews. Greetings from Australia 🇦🇺
Thanks man!
For the price of that bike. You could get a 2nd hand bike for €5000 with low mileage, spend €5000 On all you motorbike gear and accessories and €5000 On a long motorbike road trip some where around the world and still have some money left over for the next trip.
But it's still a nice bike.
Agree. It is over priced, the reliability is questionable, but it's nice bike to ride.
Wait a few years and you could get a f850gs for $5000
True, but some 1 has to buy one 1st so you can get 1 for €5000 :)
Trigger Finger i'm sure plenty of people will buy these bikes. On a pcp it's probably not much per month. I bought an f800gs with all the toys paid £10k. In 2014.
Chris Hart. I agree someone will buy this bike. And its probably not that much per month.
However, I personally feel that amount of money could be better spent else where. I'm currently doing my bike test here in the UK so buying a new bike for me is out the question plus the wife is already PISSED I'm getting a bike. if she found out I spent 15k on a bike I may as well ask the dealership to kick me in the nuts as I leave. I'll be in the 2nd hand market as a new rider. I get it dude. This is going to be some ones bike soon and I would love this bike as my 1st bike.
Maybe in 15 years when the kids are all grown up and the wife calms down I'll have a new bike.
I am very happy with this bike. I don't really feel the wind because I am not that tall like you. Anyway, I love your honesty.
That’s pretty much all the attention I’ll give this bike. Thanks for the review, Pavlin. You just told me all I wanted to know. Of course it’s a superb piece of engineering, and of premier quality. But it’s heavy, expensive, costly to equip for serious travel, and it will sell just fine for the marketing people. The aftermarket industry will go into overdrive to sell their share of ‘essential’ extras as alternatives to the BMW catalogue, all dripping with superlatives telling us how we must have this and that. It’s a proven cycle, and a bandwagon I prefer to avoid. No decent screen as stock. Again. At least the tank is back where it belongs.
Agree
Try a Tiger 800, great bike, light and agile, very reliable,....
Thank you. It‘s always a pleasure to listen to your frank reviews. This happens to be one of my favourites, and I‘ll see how I like it when I take it for a test ride. It is too easy to quibble about the price, but quality does have its price and so does prestige and the brand name. The services have to be done by BMW if you want to keep the warranty, otherwise any good mechanic can do it. The BMW service is only important if you want to maintain the resale value high. Clearly not a budget option, but it is a quality machine, a luxury. The more people there are that can afford this kind of luxury, the better. If more wealthy people spent their time and money going around the world in very expensive motorcycles, it might also make the world a better place for all.
As I said the brand has more than enough fans...
The review is incomplete without a dirt ride.I can tell you she is great in the dirt.thks.
Show us how great is the bike in your videos.
Hey Pavlin, thanks for all your input, your reviews and your tips. I followed most of your advice and just came back safe from two weeks of riding from Munich to Montenegro and back. No issues with the bike or the rider. Best Regards :-)
Good! I am glad that you made it safe! Keep riding safe!
Good review there Pavlin. The fuel tank is far too small and the price is crazily high. I think I will stick with my great value for money VStrom 650 which can do everything the BMW can do but is thousands cheaper. Ride safe.
Agree
I’m sticking with My v strom 650 too
Agree 100%, bmw way too expensive, I also loved my vstrom 650 (R.I.P ☹️), always enjoyed the ride home from test rides more than the tests, almost perfect bike for 1up distance on tarmac
I agree Pablo. That BMW is no doubt a quality bike, but expensive. I have a V-Strom 650, and have enjoyed the labor of love suiting it to my liking and needs. Your videos have also confirmed my choice to go with an affordable bike, because expensive isn't necessary to get to enjoy the world on two wheels. 👍
Nikki Holland hy, this is not a suzuki, this is a BMW, the quality is really higher, so it is not so cheap. Sorry, the Storm is a good bike, but you safe your money for a lot of details.
Buy the BMW, or not, your choise
Hi Pavlin, thank you for the review, nicely put together :)
My pleasure!
Hello Pavlin. Another great video. Thanks. I’ve watched many of your videos. Sometimes more than once, and there are still so many more I haven’t watched. You have reviewed many bikes and you address them all pretty consistently. i was wondering if you had a leader board for all these bikes? Thank you kindly. Yeah, i’ve changed my avatar and screen name.
Glad you like them!
Best review ever.
Another frank and honest review - thank you. If you ever run out of ideas for a video maybe you could interview and test ride bikes owned by other adventurers like yourself - like a review of what 2nd hand bikes to buy (self interested as currently looking but with a very limited budget!) - with all the different modifications and tips they have done!
If anyone offer hos bike for test I will do it with pleasure.
Spot on and agreed. BMW make very good adv bikes, but too much money
True
Hi Pavlin.
I´ve got the 09 F800 GS with a 16L tank. When touring I´m able to do almost 400km on one tank if I avoid highways and speeds over 100km/h. I don´t recon the range are as bad as you may think on this one. The reserve tank on mine is 4L and every F800 GS owner knows to calculate the range by the trip meter and not the computer or the fuel gauge.
Cherrs!
As I said in the video this tank is not a problem around Europe. How many GS owners ride their bike under 100km/h - 2 or 5 maybe...
Well, I don´t know any GS riders who prefer riding on highways when touring.
BMW was seen as having a good warranty in the industry not long ago. I remember when they tried East German con-rods on one of their later K-bikes. The shop had to return the whole engine to Berlin. BMW seems to do well with engines they part out completely, but I haven't followed any forums lately.
How do you think the 850 GS compares to the Africa Twin CRF1000? I remember you liking it a lot too.
I still prefer the Africa. I am big fan of Japanese bikes.
i have a 2017 F800GSA 2300 miles i like it alot but recently it sputters and stalls on me. bad gas?? im taking it to the dealership. but my 2016 KLR woth 8300 miles had this problem only one time.
My Tenere with 140,000km (87,000 miles) never had this problems.
great review again!
funny, learned motorcycle riding at the same place 25 years ago... fond memories :-)
Good
Great review! I've never given the F850GS a thought..thanks for showing it to us :)
It is actually good option for BMW fans... not too heavy, not too expensive (compare to GS1200 of course).
My Tracer 700 is probably half the price of the full spec BMW, it has a better screen, is much lighter, and costs very little in terms of servicing. Yamaha should have introduced rider modes for the 2019 GT version, though.
Why not considering The Tiger 800? Very comfortable, build like a tank (several people used it to travel around the world), real smooth engine, light and agile, 19L tank at around 5L/100 km (in my personal experience). The XC-version is perfect for off-roading. It's my second Triumph, and definitely not my last! A little while ago I met this older guy who had 2 Explores over 8 years time, and 1 GS during 1 year. He said the GS had costed him more over 1 year, then the Explorers during 8 years! Issues all the time with the Beemer, and they cost a fortune!
It is not my bike.
I'm split between the two. GS750 & GS850. Still undecided which one is the best choice for my next adventure in a planned Trans-Indonesia ride
My riding is expected to be 60:40
60% on the road
40% off road
Any suggestion??
I bought a fully equipped small camper van for that price. Absurd paying 15000 Eu for essentially two wheels and an engine even with a BMW sticker! Crazy. I'll buy a Honda or Yamaha equivalent, but nice review Pavlin
Well...we all have different preferences. I agree with you, but...
Once the ADV version comes out it's going to be a very popular bike... the F800 has been a good model for a long time, this update was way past due.
Let's see...I don't think that they will make it, but if they do it will be at least 250kg... and 20,000 euro...
Good summary. Did you feel any noticeable vibration from the engine or just smooth power delivery in all rpm range ?
No vibrations.
Thanks for the review. The older version looked better IMO... Kinda shocked about the low range and the weight.
I was also surprised when I saw the price and the weight.
Premium bike, premium price. Its inevitable.
Could be...
All the comments here have one on the screen: the price.
Buy a BMW, got a BMW.
Like cars, buy a Porsche or Mercedes and you got one of the best in quality. But you have to pay for that.
Safe a lot money and buy a old Sokda.
Last week on a 1000 km trip to Austria, there are lots of GS, on the streets, do you think, they are all crazy? No, they are not.
By the way, Im riding 2 years GS, and now Yamaha XJR. BMWs are very good bikes for long trips in Europa
Agree
Great review but, have to agree with most of the comments..
Too expensive
15L ?
Screen?
Weight?
If I am buying new, cb500x please. 500 euro on protection for underneath and that'll do nicely thanks.
Clever decision!
Well CB500X is absolutely different category with almost no off-road capabilities, very short travel of suspension and purely road sized wheels. It is better compare it with its real competitors: Africa Twin or Triumph Tiger XC.
If I want lightweight very capable enduro which can also do some traveling I would definitely wait to next year for Yamaha Tenere 700 or KTM Duke 790 Adventure. These bikes will be pretty impressive.
Here in the USA we do not have that model BMW. we have the 800 then the 1000 so I can't test ride it. I see from the comments that your patrons really do not prefer the BMW. I have two more years to chose a new bike. I am on my seventh bike now. the last two were BMW.
It will come very soon, I am sure about it.
Another problem is when you want to sell it the value falls off the roof. You never recoupe all the extras.
I think that second hand market still have one of the best value from all brands. Even for very old models.
Great review, thank you! I have a feeling this one is going to be shortlisted for your next bike 😉
No, never. Good bike, but not for me.
Excellent review. I wish BMW could sponsor you on a Mongolia trip with one of these to get proper overall feedback.
I wouldn't mind
only the rear suespension is electronicaly controlled ! the front is not ! corect me if I am wrong! awsome videos !!!
True. I made a mistake.
Very detailed review. Thanks a lot.
Glad it was helpful!
Very nice review man,thanks
You are welcome anytime!
Never heard as much wind noise in your other reviews. BMW are, as usual, wanting to ramp up the price with optional extras that are standard on other makes.
True
ESA suspension is not a standard item for the 850 gs in the states. Wind screen is awful, foot pegs are not ideal. 3rd party options for screen and footpegs are superior but cost a ton, fyi I own one of these. Quick shifter works amazing. Hand guards are not standard item either. After market addition of ESA is really expensive, about 2600 USD. The factory protective plate on the bottom of the bike is pretty crappy.
@22:22 for that money you can get the 2020 africa twin, the non adventure sports manual one, with crash bars and tall windshield and engine guards. And that's a lighter, more powerful and probably a more off road capable machine. Also I would guess cheaper to run and more reliable. Yeah, you would loose the electronically adjustable suspension and tubeless tires but , really ...
Well, we have the option to choose and we have to make it wisely.
Dear Pavlin,
I am not sure what you are talking about but my insurance cost me 100 EURO a year for the old F800 GS. Also the yearly inspection normally costs me more or less 250 EURO at BMW. Only in case of valve inspection it is a more or less 400 EURO. (every 20.000 KM)
After riding 65.000 KM there was nothing to repair except the normal changes of Oil, Chain aso.
An old F800GS is going to be a lot cheaper obviously. With a brand new bike you really need maximum coverage because of the high value. Yearly inspection cost of 250 EURO is a LOT in my opinion. Especially because you can (and should) do 90% of that yourself.
I am talking about full insurance, not third party or "teil kasko"
I really like your reviews and testrides on different adventure bikes but I was wondering about how you define a „middleweight adventure bike“. Because you called the Husqvarna 701 a middleweight as well and there is nearly a 85kg difference to the F 850 GS.
Because of that I would say the Husqvarna is a lightweight, but for example the XT660 is rather a middleweight. And everything above 200kg is a heavy bike in my opinion. Because I think weight is the most important attribute when it comes to offroad riding.
If you define in terms of power and engine displacement I agree with you. Then the lightweight bikes are bikes like CRF 250 Rally, WR 250 R or GS 310 and CCM GP 450. And everything with 600-1000ccm would be middleweight.
I would like to hear your „definition“ of a lightweight respectively middleweight adventure bike.
And good luck for your upcoming adventures!
Yes, I define regarding their engines. Light everything up to 500cc, middle weight up to 900cc, heavy weight 1000 + cc
It is just my own category, no need to be perfect.
Brilliant review. Thank you! That bike's too expensive and big for me and has too many features. I'd love to hear what you think about its smaller sibling, the F750GS. Many reviews concentrate on the 850 but I wonder if the 750 is the hidden gem.
I might test it in the future.
not sure why everyone's comments are about high costs. It's a BMW, it's a brand image. They aren't going to give it away. For those that don't want to spend the $ there will be just as many willing to spend it. That's why you have many other options available from other makes. M-B vs Toyota, same argument.
Agree
Wrong cars comparison detected, Sir!
Hi Pavlin, the GS 800 is a nice and surely extreme durable bike in the well-known premium BMW-quality. But also as ever from BMW, there are much to much useless, but expensive old-man-gimmicks, wich nobody needs... but you have to pay for it. And the additional pricelist is like a never ending story.... Ride safe, Hans
Agree
It would have been interesting to have reviewed the F750GS rather than the F850GS -its cheaper for a start -I wonder if it would be worth the money ?
I might review it in the future.
Just an observation, KTM 1290 Adventure R with 15 liters of fuel in the tank will weigh 232 kg, this motorcycle weighs 229. This classifies it as a heavy motorcycle, not an average weight.
It is in middleweight category because of the engine size, not because of the bike weight itself.
Motorcycle Adventures maybe they should be called otherwise? because the term refers to the weight and not the displacement volume or engine power. Just the classification by displacement of the engine can be quite arbitrary, and its weight is always weight. When classifying by the volume of the engine, it turns out that the Urals with an engine of 500 cubic centimeters will fall into the category of light motorcycles with a weight of 300 kg, and KTM 690 enduro at a weight of 140 kg will be in the middleweight, in the same place where this bmw.
Agree, but it is my own chart and I don't have plants to go that deep...
Hello, I've been following your videos for a long time, thank you so much for putting the effort.
I'm preparing for a 4 days trip and I'm concern about the soft bag, I just realised I don't have anything to lock it (it's a Givi EA115BK with a Roll Top), I wonder if you have any tips and accessories in mind so that I can protect my gear, I was planning to bring my camera but maybe some times I don't need it and was wondering of leaving my stuff in the bag (let say... while going for lunch). Thank you for your time :)
Do not keep expensive stuff in. Take a tank bag and put all important items in. The tank bag you can carry with you.
This bike is designed for industrialised countries. What exotic metals are in the frame? You would need a diagnostic computer to find the faults on this bike, much prefer analogue.
As most of the modern bikes, yes, you will need a computer.
Pavlin, do you like the Tenere 700 better than the BMW GS 850?
2000 euros for insurance? That's insane. Here in Russia I bought insurance for 15 euros for 2008 1200 gs
Full insurance? I paid 30 euro for 30 days in Russia!
Motorcycle Adventures yes, 1500р per year. And I do all the maintenance by myself. Nothing is broken yes, so bmw is the best motorcycles so far
не надо путать ОСАГО и КАСКО. Не 1500р в год КАСКО в РФ
It is sure as hell NOT Vollkasko and not even a Teilkasko alternative - it's russian Haftpflicht price at best.
I guess, you meant Vollkasko @ 2k/year, Pavlin?
Motorcycle Adventures you're foreigner, that's why =)
Russia; nothing more needs to be said.
I'm really struggling to choose between an F850GS lightely used, or brand new tiger 850 sport. I think it will just come to the dealer network, which on this point bmw wins. In belgium we have motorrad dealers everywhere
Whatever works for you!
Hi, Pavlin!
It is not necessary to say, but you did the job as usual...!
Good bike indeed! 60 km/h on second gear and 57 km/h on fifth! I like it (it is like mine Honda CB600F)!
Regarding that SOS button: it is very good and important for the safety idea. But do you know how it works? Does it use GSM network, which means SIM card/operator/payment (and 112 is universal only in EU, in other countries it is different number like 911), or it uses some specific BMW network (radio? which couldn't be available all around the world!). I.e. is this feature really practical? Especially for that additional price...?
Ride safe!
I don't know Ivo, but I can ask.
It seems like a good bike, but the price of all the extras takes it to the same level as Triumph's 800 XCA, and the BMW doesn't even have adjustable front suspension and I'm not sure the ESA works on the front. It's also 20 kgs heavier than the Triumph. I wonder if BMW isn't just going to price themselves out of the market?
Don't even worry about it. They already sold the quote for 2018.
Excellent video. The F850GS looks like a good bike but the fuel tank is far too small.
It's really depends from the type of the trips. Around Europe is fine.
Of course, you can make anything work but the small tank would be a challenge for an ADV rider where I live. (Alberta Canada). I think I would skip this bike for that reason and look at the competition.
Once again a great review. You tell it like it is. I like that. Ride safe my friend.
Thanks Ron!
Amazing review 👌🏻
Thanks!
Another "adventure" bike with a too small tank, the old 800 Adventure model had a 23 lt tank. Unfortunately the new 850 GS won't be released in Australia till 2019....so we can't even check it out to justify the purchase.
True
It is very probable that there will be 850 GS Adventure announced for next year. It should have the tank solved :)
Looks sell more than many of the really important things
The important things are engine, frame, petrol tank and wheels. Ok, maybe ABS, the rest is just marketing bu...ts.
Would be really nice to know about average fuel consumption and maybe a cheaper alternative that can do the same job but maybe with less style. Still, useful review, Thanks
The same job will do it any bike.
Motorcycle Adventures I have a Honda Deauville, great for the asphalt not sure ai can go where the F850 can. This is what I was asking for, an adventure bike that can do a similar job, but cheaper and maybe just as or even more reliable.
Hi Pavlin, you mentioned the fuel tank is 15L and the windscreen needs to be higher..... Have you tested out the F850GS Adventure bike with 23L tank and higher windscreen protection. The weight for GS Adventure is 15KG more heavier at 244KG. The main factor for you is the price??
The 244 kg are just a joke, try to pick up the monster alone on the Pamir Highway (+luggage!!!). They should have planned something on par with the KTM 790 Adventure: around 200kg and a bigger fuel fanów.
@@zerotonine807 I think Pavlin made up his mind on the midrange motorcycle. More functionality travel from A to B. Cheap price and light weight. Yes something like Yamaha Tenre 700 or KTM 790 adventure. However, one caveat is he may need to find common parts around the world.
Versys 650. You can't go wrong with that
If you like it, yes.
I feel sad... Why does everything good have to be so so expensive? By the way, I love your new intro. The music is way cooler than in the old one.
The brands always coming with the prices...thanks for the intro!
This would be the perfect bike for me. I don't mind the weight, I never ride alone offroad, but the price, man... If you add a proper windscreen, and hard cases, it would cost a fortune. Maybe a second hand one for me in a few years time.
this is a sport model , they havent made an adventure version yet .., tubeless wheels is an awesome feature i have to admit , and cruise control is a great long distance hwy comfort feature .., but too expensive for me , but if you can afford it (and all the extra associated costs) , whats there left to complain about ?
There are many people already waiting for this bikes and it doesn't mater what I or anyone believe or want.
True , a friend of mine here in Australia that has a 2016 f800gs trophy (in still newish condition) , has told me he is buying an 850 (the day when it is eventually in Australia - likely in October) and with all the added optional extras - no mater what.
I suggested to him to keep riding his current (capable) bike for another year, and then get a ktm 790 adventure or the new yammie T7 when it comes out , or at least wait till it comes out to check them out before deciding on the 850 .., but he says a firm NO , and insists he's buying an 850 the day they arrive in Australia and told me that's that !
.., so yes I know what you mean :)
I remember you saying that the Africa Twin was going to be your next bike. How do you compare this to that? (Not the heavier Adventure Sports). Will the AT still be your next bike?
The AT will not be my next bike, but if I have to compare it with this BMW I will always prefer the Africa.
Just saw your vid on your next bike. Have you found a new engine?
Nice looking, easy to customize and well performing bike, however way too expensive to buy or maintain...
Agree
How do you want to adjust non adjustable front suspension in that bike. Oh dear.
Double price than a Kawasaki versys 650.......is to much...i totally agree with you...a new car can cost lesssssssss than a 2 cilinder engine on a nice frame and somme gadgets....a new 4x4 Duster fully loaded with air conditioning....ha ha ha....
Agree
How much is a new 4x4 duster fully loaded ?
a versys 650 is also half the bike of what this bike is .., and half the performance also
You are 185cm which is about 6"1 feet and 102kg which is 225 lbs.
Also you don't say building quality, but build quality.
Ok, thanks for the corrections. English never been my powerful side.
Great video but that bike has a very high Price. Here in Italy there has been a recall for alla the bikes sold because they have a factory problem
Do you know what problem?
Motorcycle Adventures They say it is a problem in The engine but what part BMW do not say what it is .Also for the 750
aha, thanks!
Great bike, I rode the older model. Very agile for the weight, smooth engine but a bit too high for my stature of only 5.9" (1,76). a bit pricey too :o
True
Nice review but wow the extras are well too much......on ward to the 700 tenara Yamaha
Agree
There's a new ktm 790 adventure coming out soon. Could be your new bike. Looks a bit like your yamaha.
KTM cannot be my new bike. They are great bikes, but the poor reliability is a huge minus for me.
Good review. Thank you Pavlin. I agree that it's far too expensive if you also have to pay to equip it for adventure or long distance riding. Perhaps, straight out of the box, it's just a very nice commuter?
Exactly. In fact this tank is much better for off road than the one under the seat.
High compresion ratio motor (12.7) = Only unleaded fuel, minimum octane number 95
Definitely not good for outside of Europe...
The best!!!
Thanks for taking the time!
The 800 Adventure comes with a 24 litre tank.
And weight 240 kg
Aye... she's a big girl but she'll go all day!
Will you be reviewing the Benelli TRK 502 soon?
No, ne dealer in Berlin.
What do you think about Triumph Street Scrambler?
Never ride it. Not my type.
14k to 15k? I would rather buy a good frame from a Transalp or Africa twin, buy an engine and refresh it, rebuild the bike from the ground up with WP in the front and Ohlins in the rear.
True! I will prefer to spend the difference traveling but not everybody is like me and you. BMW sell this model very well.
Greetings From India. Tank capacity is very less. Over all a good machine
It is really depends from that where it will be use. For Europe, 15 l are more than enough.
първото нещо което ми направи впечатление е, че километража не е верен ти едвам се движиш, а той вече показва 20км/ч
Нищо му няма.
Any idea of the new r1200 gs 2019 ? It will have euronorm 5. What about forwheel ? 19 or 21 inch ?
I don't know. I never need to know such a information.
@@motorcycleadventures I will stay on European routes. A combination of highways and off roads. What about roads in Roumania and Ukraine ?
Pavlin, as always an honest review given the restrictions you had when you borrowed it. I am really looking forward to the 1250GS in 2019 but i am afraid BMW are pricing themselves out of the market. I believe this insidious, add-on campaign they have with all their ranges is going to eventually bite them in the rear end. Presently, they claimed you can but a GSA for around £14,000, but everyone know when you spec it up you are circa £20,000. God knows what the 2019 GAS will cost. Thanks for sharing and ride safe. Keep safe, kindest regards. A82 Joe.
BMW targeting very specific group of riders and they do it really well. It doesn't mater what me or many like me think, they will still sell much better than the rest of the brands, because as I said they are great with marketing. Quality and functionality....most of the new "Adventure riders" don't even worry about it as longer they are able to jump on their new toy...
Thank you because none tells us the truth about costs and cons like you
Well, it is obvious...
they are nice bikes but the riding position is not for me i feel my arms are stretched out too much , they are expensive to run and maintain compared to my current bike which i prefer looks wise and comfort wise ...
Good, ride your bike then.
@@motorcycleadventures you test rode one and some of your Indian friends have them so yes Pavlin , all i need for it now are some engine crash guards and i am done for the next few years until my loans paid off and i get the new version whatever that will be in 4 years :)
front suspension is non adjustable !
Correct, it is my mistake.
was i wrong to buy the baby multi? Morten
loke 4880valhall no you were not!
Good review,Pavlin. Nice bike but for my wants and needs too many bells and whistles and way,way too expensive. I think the basic "entry level" version is £9200 in the UK. £9200 and you don't even get a decent screen or centre stand!! Not that I particularly want the add on toys and luxuries anyway but like you said, they all cost more. No,what I want is a basic,no thrills or frills,simple,economic cheap 400/500cc all rounder. I'm tempted by the R.E. Himalayan but am a little concerned about build quality and reliability. And if I'm honest,I'd like just a little more top end and cruising speed than the Himalayan. Dont get me wrong I'm sure the basic entry level bmw would do me fine. But not at £9200! Looks like I'll be trawling through the secondhand pages again!
Thanks Malcolm! I think that BMW never planed to sell basic entry level. They always targeting different category riders and they do it well.
Motorcycle Adventures I think you're right there,Pavlin! And yes,I agree,they do all the options and after sales add ons very well. I've mentioned this before I know but I'd be very interested in your view of the top level RallyRaidcb500x. See if you can get your hands on one for a review. Best regards.
CB500X
No chance. It need to be someone's bike.
Motorcycle Adventures I'm sure there's someone out there with a rally raid conversion they'd lend you.
I ride a Kawasaki Versys 650 so I might be a little spoiled with my 21l tank, but 15l for a "medium weight adventure" (my Versys is already too heavy for my liking) bike just doesn't sound like enough. All those bells and whistles just don't make up for the weight and poor range in my opinion, especially on a bike that expensive. Looking forward to the KTM 790 and 490 Adventures
It is overpriced, there are many better bikes, that is obvious, but the quote for 2018 is already sold. As I said in the video BMW are very good in marketing...
The old f800gs actually is lighter than the versey's 214kg. Vs 217kg
Is a BMW with chinese motor
Could be
At last the BMW made it the right way - to put the chain on the left side and not to burn your feet on the exhaust when you take off the bike...
True
I was so excited about this bike, but I am disappointed. The bike is too heavy for me. It's a BMW so the price is going to be high - don't like that so much either. So, I guess the only bike left is the new Tenere 700. I don't think I need more than 50 HP and I hope the weight is no more than 180 KG. Thanks for an excellent review.
I also wait to see the Tenere. I guess that the weight will be around 200 and the price over 10,000 euro, but let's hope...
berlin is quite nice
Yes it is.
Much price, less reliability (1200 units retry from Italian dealers for engine fails), much weight, these huge can of coke for exhaust pipe, chinesse engine in a German dress bike... I'd rather ride your tenere 660.
Agree, but not everyone is like me and you.
Better looking bike of the gs series but still would have got the Triumph 800tiger...
Good review...
I think that this bike is much better than the Tiger, but this is my opinion.
Motorcycle Adventures maybe...it may come down to price and looks...
Except forthe price it is the perf3ct bike
Well....
Motorcycle Adventures but still not perfect. Too small tank, a bit too heavy....etc...etc
I wonder have you ever tryied new africa twin ? i really would like to hear your opinion about it, even if by engine size "it is too big with 1000 cc" but it looks like its really light weight to handle, and cheap to maintain :)
ua-cam.com/video/oDJc-4E19KM/v-deo.html
E2,000 for insurance???? My 1200GS costs £200 per year.
For full insurance?
Yes.
My f800gs is £78 a year
In Germany, only civil insurance (third party) of my bike is 120 euro per year. It's 2008, 660cc. Full insurance will be like 350 euro.
Don’t let them see you dropped it in a ditch, they might increase your premium. I only ever do third party, fire theft, if I break it I fix it. £100 per year, but a nice bike like this, yeah full cover would cost but necessary for sure.
i think one with less doo dahs be more affordable who really needs electronic suspension adjustment or shift assist ect if your that lazy you cant use clutch maby you should be rideing a moped he he just saying
Many will buy it because of these.
i like to say in regards to cost the old saying you get what you pay for rings true im riding a 20 year old r 1150r from 2001 its still a nice ride and still looks like new so .// ?
True