Excellent video, thank you! I'm tired of watching "all good" promotional videos of bikes. Telling people about the real shortcomings or issues is what we all need to know. THANK YOU.
Thank you for this excellent review. I'm moving from a Tiger 800 xca and having test-ridden an F850 GSAdventure and really liked it, it is very helpful to see an owner speak about the bike honestly. I'm looking forward to joining the BMW club. Ride safe, cheers.
Great video, well documented awesome commentary. And your birds singing at the end are a nice touch. We don’t have birds like that in the US that I have ever heard.
I bought a new 2019 F850 GS (not Adventure) this summer. I agree with your overall helpful review, and very good advice re training, and would add a few things. The smaller tank (16 liters) of the non-Adventure model is a little too small. If I'm making tracks on the U.S. interstate I get only about 200 miles on a tank, meaning I stop at ca 160-170 miles. If I can go country roads at 55-60 mph, I can get 60 mpg and about 250 miles on a tank (refueling at 220), which is ok, but I'd welcome 300 mile range. As to baggage...I did have a hard fall on deep stand on basically my first trip on the first day. The fall itself was ok, but I had hard panniers and the corner of the starboard one crashed onto my lower leg, and helped twist my ankle. I would strongly encourage soft panniers, like Mosko, but I like having a hard topbox that I can lock. (Nothing was broken but 4 weeks later I still have a grossly swollen hematoma and a little bit tender ankle--which was very fortunate outcome; I can send pictures!). BTW, on my previous bike: three summers ago, in my 70s, I did 99 days and 23,500 miles, one continuous trip, by myself, to 'all' the corners of the U.S. including Alaska: www.Route66Adventure.net. That was on a Triumph Explorer 1200. I was hoping to do something not quite as ambitious on the 850 but this summer slipped away, and so has some riding vigor.
I have a 2019 F850GSA and have done several "adventures" in groups and solo. I have the Bark Busters and a home made side stand foot, but from the pic shown here I dare say I put a bit more effort into mine. I use soft panniers to carry the weight lower on the bike and it has the side effect of protecting the bike in a fall and making it easier to pick up (by keeping it just a little up off the ground). I put a proper skid plate under the engine as the plastic thing that came with the bike provided little confidence. I ended up putting a spare key fob battery in a plastic bag I tape into the storage under the seat. One thing that helps the key fob batter last longer is that when I am camping with my tent near the bike, I put the key fob in a small foil pouch. It does seem to make a difference. I am 6'0" with a 34" inseam. The standard seat is fine for me. The Rally seat is taller but narrower. The BMW Rally windscreen is nice for getting airflow or when off-road, but doesn't provide much wind protection in the cold or rain. The BMW standard windscreen is just a bit short for me and I get a bit of buffeting at highway speeds. A Puig windscreen extension takes care of that. Someone with a shorter torso than me might be fine without the extension. At this point I find the BMW NAV VI interface to be cumbersome and the search is weak. It does have some nice data displays for the bike but you can get to that stuff through the TFT if you need to. I like that you can zoom the map from the wiz-wheel, but the NAV VI is quite expensive for what it gives you. In retrospect the Garmin Zumo XT for half the price would be a better deal. On the other hand you can just use your phone using a phone adapter for the GPS mount (or whatever mount you like), and an app with off-line maps. I weigh about 190 lbs (86 kg) and I find the fork to be too soft for riding off of the pavement. Unfortunately the bike does not have any fork adjustments, not even pre-load. Anyone on the heavier side like me or or bigger should budget for an after market fork upgrade like the TracTive cartridge kit (assuming you are going off pavement, but if you are not then I would suggest that there are less expensive bikes that would suit your purpose better). The rear has the electronic adjustment for damping and pre-load and I find it works pretty well. Finally, I will echo the recommendation to get training if you are not an experienced off-road rider and you want to take the bike off the tarmac.
Thanks. I just bought a 2021 40th anniversary, factory lowered as Im 5'8" on a good day- love it already. It's a total sweetheart - so compliant and quietly sophisticated. Looking forward to a month this summer from Vancouver, Canada up to the arctic circle.
Great video, Have just ordered a low seat for mine being vertically challenged. Yes I found the side does to short and all but level ground its difficult to get upright. This is my first adventure bike and its so comfortable on long journeys.
@@hexabr I am 5' 7". I can ride the bike with the normal seat which is more comfortable then the lowered seat but its a bit of a stretch and I don't feel comfortable, I have nearly dropped the bike a few times. The lowered seat is far better I can put both feet down.
I really like your story. I too ride a 850GSA. I rode mine from Miami to Thailand through 18 countries last year -- only crossing water from Toronto to London. I fall all the time on crap roads. Before that, I took my 2018 R1200GSA from Cartagena, Columbia (top of South America) to Ushuaia, Argentina (last road on earth south). I fell even more on that bike :). My next trip after this virus will likely be on a KTM 790 from Miami to South Africa. Why KTM? its a lighter bike and I am 5'9" tall. I love BMW... They never break -- and in my world travels I never pass a broken BMW but I see a ton of broken KTM's. But, I think lighter is better after my experience. For traveling the USA, its a R1200GSA which I do often -- crossing Miami to California. For South America, its a BMW F850. For Africa, it will be too much off road for either. Anyway, I like your video. Keep riding. I suck after all these years of adventure travel -- its actually embarrassing how bad -- but its fun to see the world. Good luck in your travels.
@@StevesBikes01 Hahaha. I have not documented my tours on UA-cam. Check out my instagram at @Phil.deleon or web: www.phillipadeleon.com better chance at watching my journeys.
Wasnt this Video frustrating enough with your BMW electronics!? Doesnt matter if the bike doesnt break, when the computer says i dont want to, what youre gonna do in the middle of nowhere?
Hey, Cool video. Nice work. I agree on the big tank, unless you are planning epic adventures I find the standard GS tank adequate... I need to plan my stops but I can ride 350kms on a tank so fuel is not an issue in the areas I ride. That said on longer trips I’ll carry a bit of gas just in case, but I don’t have to lug the 30l tank around all the time. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
You mention the seat hight a bit. How tall are you out of curiosity ? I'm looking at getting this bike but use it more of a commuter bike. I'm 6'4 or 193cm
G'Day Matthew, i'm 5'4 or 1800mm. You won't have any issues with seat height, and may even need the flat bench style seat. Check out "Steve's Tesla" also if you're into EV's. cheers
Hi, I am 5'8" and 78kg I can handle it fine and you will too. But if you have never ridden off road before consider a 250cc, borrow or hire one first for a trial. Cheers
Apologies for the long post, but I can related to all the points you have raised!! So good that I have come across this video. I purchased my F 850 GSA new on July 2019. First adventure bike, but not my first bike. I have experienced the same issues!! Even carry a couple of spare batteries for the keyfob!! Being 5' 7" (and shrinking) I struggled with the angle the stock side stand placed the bike on, even after adding that kickstand base enlarger. I also got a lowered seat (I went with the Wunderlich low profile seat). A few months after buying the bike I went on a 6,127 miles trip during the course of 13 days (FL to CA and back). For its intended purpose, this bike is an amazing tool!! It took everything without issues. Great fuel economy, amazing range, smooth ride no matter what road surface I was on; space for all my camping gear, food, tools, everything! And I have purchased the diagnostic computer, and a few specific tools for it... Move the GPS to the higher mount so I could see it with the tank bag on. Taller factory windshield got rid of any wind gust towards my helmet... Only got the side aluminum panniers as I use the top rack for camping gear. Love that it has tubeless wheel/tire setup (I carry a plug kit and air compressor)... it is an amazing bike. I went into this purchase thinking long-term ownership. Thing is, I am not sure how long I will keep the bike... I just made the mistake of buying a taller bike than I can handle. That feeling of thinking I will drop it is not a good one. I had to be very conscious of where I parked, how I parked, any amount of incline on the wrong side and I had problems deploying the side stand and getting the bike to not tilt towards the right side when I was getting off... this sometimes meant asking for help from a fellow rider to hold the bike while I got out. Most times I just rode out and found a better parking spot, or tried the same stop from a different angle... This kind of sucks as I like everything about how the bike behaved during that long trip. We have another trip like that (6K + miles this time from FL to Canada and back) planned for this September 2021 (if the COVID situation is under control) and I am struggling on whether to replace the bike for a new Honda Gold Wing or stick with it... I need to see if BMW offers those classes in the US... That could be of great help to avoid making a financial suicide by changing the bike so soon... Anyway, again, apologies for the long post but your video was spot on and at a time where I am rethinking on what to do with the bike long term... Stay safe and healthy!
Thanks for the feedback Jamie. I have found my confidence growing on the bike as I do more rides. I have another coming up in a few weeks so watch for the video. I am 1.8m and have learned that I can get the bike upright by siting down hard on it as I mount it and it sort of bounces upright. The training definitely helped me too, but I still have a long way to go as you will see in the BMW safari video on my channel. Cheers
@@StevesBikes01 that 5 cm difference in height makes a difference in my case, lol. Before coming to a stop I switch the suspension setting from dynamic to road to get it to its lowest setting. And yes, the bouncing technique, checked! Do not get me wrong, love the bike, I just need to learn a few more tricks to minimize the panic moments... I have been riding for over 20 years... this is the first bike where I have had this issue... and it was my fault for not test riding it before buying it (you would think that after 20 years riding I would have learned that bit). Watching the Safari video now... Subscribed and looking forward to your future videos!
@@Wachuko-1 Google for lowering kits for F850 GSA. You can lower it 40mm. The springs are same hight as original, but they are made progressive so, that the weight of the bike will set the high position lower and then when springs are in action, they harden progressively. "The height lowering kit by Touratech Suspension, from the Dutch specialist Hyperpro. The set includes replacement fork springs and a replacement spring for the shock absorber. This spring set provides you with a sensible 40mm reduction in height without affecting the riding properties - at the expense of a little ground clearance. The progressive springs have been designed to match the BMW F850GS/Adventure perfectly, and offer a tremendous improvement in response and greater safety in extreme situations. Replacing the front and rear springs will lead to a significant improvement in your suspension system. Street legal. Info: Only fits *BMW F850GS/Adventure from 2018 * The replacement springs can be used both with and without ESA Equipment"
It looks like you are enjoying yours as well. I'm coming up on a year and it was the right bike for me. Do you still have the GTL? I sold mine and am ready to buy another. I miss that engine!
@@StevesBikes01 That is the trick, getting a second one after you sell the first. My advice: do not sell. It is a premium motorcycle that cannot be replaced.
Were you able to get the BarkBusters installed on your 850 GSA? Their website made it sound like they would interfere with the gas tank when the handlebars are turned to full lock position.
G'Day, I haven't had them fitted yet, the Bikeshop says they are available and the website shows this: barkbusters.net/what-fits-my/bmw/f850gs-2018-on/
Thanks for the great video. You mentioned almost everything that came to my mind. I'm 165 cm and planning to buy a low seat and ride. Does it make sense? We'll see :)
Hello, great review. I have one question. I ride my bike in the winter and rainy days too. So the rain and wind protection is a deal breaker for me. I thought, because of bigger fuel tank , it prevents rain and wind and this bike is very suitable for me. What so you think? Im 185cm. Best wishes from turkey
Hi Steve. Great Videos and getting Training does really make a difference. Have you Ridden a 1200GS? I have heard a lot of People say the 1200 is easier to Ride than the 850GS. Also the Weight is almost the same isn’t it.? I don’t know. I Ride a 2006 1200GS and Love it. It puts my Back in just the right position to where I don’t hurt. I have 4 Fusions in my Neck and 3 in my Lower Back. I would love to do a BMW Adventure Ride, but don’t think it would a great idea with my problems. I do love to ride some Dirt Roads, and Trails that are on the easier side. Anyway, Thanks for the Videos, Subscribed.👍👍
Steve, Maschine adv tours has just released info on a 4-day ride from Bowral - Blue Mountains-Bathurst etc 3-6 Dec, you may be interested? I’m looking forward to getting my F850GS Adventure out on the dirt for a few days. Cheers.
Gotta love a good no BS Aussie review. I am about to come off a Tiger 800 XRx which it the road orientated model with a low seat that takes it to 810mm. At 5'9" and about your vintage, I can almost put both feet flat on the ground. I am about to order the GSA and to keep my feet firmly planted on a heavier 244kg bike I have decided to go the low seat/suspension option taking it to 815mm. In that configuration the electronic suspension is not included and will save about $800. Thanks to shortages on electronics that system cant be sourced by BMW, so any order for models with that are on hold, which wont effect me thankfully. How have you found the weight of the bike, which is my only real concern?
Thanks, before you lower the suspension, take a look at the BMW masterclass video in this link. A few minutes in discussing seat height and the one foot down technique. You might find you don’t need the lower suspension and can get the cool electronics instead. The weight is manageable, I can pick mine up by myself although you need to use the right technique. You might also like Steve’s Tesla on UA-cam. Cheers. ua-cam.com/video/ZkW5uNGl1OU/v-deo.html
@@StevesBikes01 thanks Steve. How often would you need to adjust the suspension? I’ve never thought to on my old tiger. At the moment all orders for GSAs are on hold that feature the electronic adjustment as the components are not available hence why I’m not fussed to go the low suspension .
@@SurfnPics honestly I’ve never changed it from the factory setting. I’m 79kg, 1800mm tall. Even two up I’ve not changed it. Good luck you won’t regret the 850. Cheers
@@SurfnPics if you mean change from Road to Enduro Pro, I do that whenever I leave the tarmac. But I’ve never adjusted the preload other than using the electronic controls
Hi Steve I've noticed you get through the Highlands a Bit on a few now of your video's are you Local to The Highlands ??? Also i am also considering a GSA 850 Ive riden all my life and now have a Back injury so think the GSA Might just be the way to continue riding what Are your thoughts on this and once i make my purchase I would be more than Happy to get out and About with You, Im a late 40's bloke with a yearning for more motorcycling adventures and now have the time to carry out these trips Thanks for looking at my Comment and Safe Trails and Trips
G'Day Shane, i live in Thirroul NSW. The rides I have done have been organised trips and they have gone through the Highlands. I hope your injury doesn't prevent you getting back on a bike. I've only had the 850 for 12 months I've always been a road rider so I'm new to this game. I expect I'll see you out there one day. Cheers
@@StevesBikes01 Hi Steve Thirroul is a Place I often went through to go to picton for a refreshing cool Aid haha Thanks for your reply I am always happy to plot a day or two or three day trip or even a week if it suits you ?? My Dad would be more than happy to take my 4wd and a trailer as support i will definitely post on one of your video's and try to arrange a meet up to try get a trip organised Stay safe and in good health until we chat next take CARE !!!!
G'day, I think when it is cold or if i'm in a high gear on a hill there would be a noise like that. However i clicked over 23,000km today and I still think the bike runs like new. Check your oil level if worried. See "Steve's Tesla" too on UA-cam if you're into EV's. Cheers
Nice review, thank you! Re: seat height, what’s your inseam? How much did you wind up taking off your seat (and did you narrow it as well)? And can you now flat foot both feet when stopped? Cheers!
G'Day, I am 1.8m tall. I took off as much as would allow the seat to remain comfortable. I know that doesn't help much, didn't narrow it though. I can sit with the balls of my feet on the road in ROAD mode, but the auto suspension lifts a bit in Enduro Pro mode so I am still on my tip toes. I now use the one foot technique and slide to the side of the seat. Cheers.
I'd say you picked up wrong tyres for muddy roads. Karoo 3 is slippery in the mud and grass as sh*t. And side stand on africa twin is the same short and small - so you are not alone with this issue. Cheers
Hi, I am 1800mm tall. After the seat mod I can get one foot down flat or two feet on my toes. This is in road mode. When you select dynamic or enduro the suspension lifts up a few cm more. Once you get used to it, it is easy, but at first it’s a bit alarming. Cheers
G'Day "Jim", I rode the 1200 on the experience day and I could handle it fine. My decision for the 850 was driven by wanting to be able to go out alone sometimes and at least have a chance of being able to pick it up if I dropped it. I've since learned that picking up the 1250 is easier as the piston heads give you an advantage as the bike doesn't lie totally flat like the 850 does. The 850 is fine for long distance touring, I've done 8 hour days on it. I am not at all disappointed with the 850. Sometimes, on technical rides I look longingly at the 250cc bikes who buzz past me as they are even easier to throw around. So it's going to depend on the type of riding you plan to do. Cheers.
G'Day, yes I think you will have an advantage in handling this bike. Try the different seat heights available from your dealer. I expect you will drive it away with no need to modify the seat. Cheers
BMW has a three (3) year warranty. Most people that buy BMW motorcycles (l've owned 3) sell the bike after the warranty run out & buy another to get another three (3) year warranty. This behavior happens because BMWs break & have issues more than many other motorcycles and to fix a BMW with *_no warranty_* you will pay out the nose, it will be painful. Just a heads up. Today I ride Hondas (Africa Twin Sports Adv. model) due to this reliability issue.
@@ajmf-hy8qt If the reliability of KTM is the same as BMW, *_how do KTM have better bikes_* 🤔. Please note: BMW motorcycles sell more motorcycles and makes much more money than KTM. Also, note: Remember for the same reliability - (EDIT: *_KTM_* has, - 6 month warranty on some bikes - a 1 year warranty on a few motorcycles - and a 24 month warranty on some as their longest warranty) *_BMW_* has a 3 year warranty for *_all_* 2022 motorcycles. And in 2023 will start a 4 year warrantyfor *_every_* bike they sell.
The BMWs don’t have reliability issues! I Ride a 2006 R1200GS and have yet to have a problem. They are so easy to Work on , I do all my own Maintenance and I’m Disabled! Did you ever do any Maintenance on yours? I think your just a KTM Rider that’s trying to put down BMWs!!!
Just goes to show or prove it does not matter how long you have been doing something if you learn nothing in that time or fail to experience new things. Frightening just how useless some so called experienced riders are on the road. In my humble opinion. Proves these cbt courses plus A1 A2 etc are just bureaucratic nonsense . Try a Himalayan , ditch the status & relax. Horses for courses ..................
God Damn riding computer....i would only buy it if you can remove all the electronics. And it is too heavy for off road, this is a comfortable touring bike with off road marketing!
Ok... One year review and you start with seat height! Then GPS navigation, then sidestand extension. Then Pro riding modes. Then Master Class Off road course. All this has nothing to do with one year review I think. By that time I lost intrest in your “One Year Review” Bye.
Steve's Bikes just about my height. Think I will have the same problem, it may not suite me as daily urban commute... I wonder if the Africa Twin is about the same...
Excellent video, thank you! I'm tired of watching "all good" promotional videos of bikes. Telling people about the real shortcomings or issues is what we all need to know. THANK YOU.
Thank you, I love the bike, but felt that it was important to be genuine about the good and bad points. Cheers
Very comprehensive video on the experience with my favorite bike. Thanks
A perfect video that any new user like me need to watch! Thanks a lot for sharing it.!!!!
Thank you for this excellent review. I'm moving from a Tiger 800 xca and having test-ridden an F850 GSAdventure and really liked it, it is very helpful to see an owner speak about the bike honestly. I'm looking forward to joining the BMW club. Ride safe, cheers.
thanks for the review! cheers
Yes, nice honest review. All good points. Have fun and be safe! 👌🏼🏁 I sub’d!
really helpful honest review. Well done you and good luck with your safari.
Cheers, thank you
Great video, well documented awesome commentary.
And your birds singing at the end are a nice touch. We don’t have birds like that in the US that I have ever heard.
Glad you enjoyed it, the birds are Kookaburras and magpies
Great video, I'm glad I watched this. I'm going tomorrow to look at the GSA 850 anniversary edition and I'm even more excited now.
Good choice, glad you liked it cheers
Smart review. I didn’t know BMW offered training!
Thanks for that great video ☺️
Thanks glad you got some benefit.
Cracking video
This a great video, thank you so much.
You're very welcome!
I bought a new 2019 F850 GS (not Adventure) this summer. I agree with your overall helpful review, and very good advice re training, and would add a few things. The smaller tank (16 liters) of the non-Adventure model is a little too small. If I'm making tracks on the U.S. interstate I get only about 200 miles on a tank, meaning I stop at ca 160-170 miles. If I can go country roads at 55-60 mph, I can get 60 mpg and about 250 miles on a tank (refueling at 220), which is ok, but I'd welcome 300 mile range.
As to baggage...I did have a hard fall on deep stand on basically my first trip on the first day. The fall itself was ok, but I had hard panniers and the corner of the starboard one crashed onto my lower leg, and helped twist my ankle. I would strongly encourage soft panniers, like Mosko, but I like having a hard topbox that I can lock. (Nothing was broken but 4 weeks later I still have a grossly swollen hematoma and a little bit tender ankle--which was very fortunate outcome; I can send pictures!). BTW, on my previous bike: three summers ago, in my 70s, I did 99 days and 23,500 miles, one continuous trip, by myself, to 'all' the corners of the U.S. including Alaska: www.Route66Adventure.net. That was on a Triumph Explorer 1200. I was hoping to do something not quite as ambitious on the 850 but this summer slipped away, and so has some riding vigor.
You certainly have had some adventures, thanks for the feedback. Cheers. Steve
Wow
I have a 2019 F850GSA and have done several "adventures" in groups and solo. I have the Bark Busters and a home made side stand foot, but from the pic shown here I dare say I put a bit more effort into mine. I use soft panniers to carry the weight lower on the bike and it has the side effect of protecting the bike in a fall and making it easier to pick up (by keeping it just a little up off the ground). I put a proper skid plate under the engine as the plastic thing that came with the bike provided little confidence. I ended up putting a spare key fob battery in a plastic bag I tape into the storage under the seat. One thing that helps the key fob batter last longer is that when I am camping with my tent near the bike, I put the key fob in a small foil pouch. It does seem to make a difference. I am 6'0" with a 34" inseam. The standard seat is fine for me. The Rally seat is taller but narrower. The BMW Rally windscreen is nice for getting airflow or when off-road, but doesn't provide much wind protection in the cold or rain. The BMW standard windscreen is just a bit short for me and I get a bit of buffeting at highway speeds. A Puig windscreen extension takes care of that. Someone with a shorter torso than me might be fine without the extension. At this point I find the BMW NAV VI interface to be cumbersome and the search is weak. It does have some nice data displays for the bike but you can get to that stuff through the TFT if you need to. I like that you can zoom the map from the wiz-wheel, but the NAV VI is quite expensive for what it gives you. In retrospect the Garmin Zumo XT for half the price would be a better deal. On the other hand you can just use your phone using a phone adapter for the GPS mount (or whatever mount you like), and an app with off-line maps. I weigh about 190 lbs (86 kg) and I find the fork to be too soft for riding off of the pavement. Unfortunately the bike does not have any fork adjustments, not even pre-load. Anyone on the heavier side like me or or bigger should budget for an after market fork upgrade like the TracTive cartridge kit (assuming you are going off pavement, but if you are not then I would suggest that there are less expensive bikes that would suit your purpose better). The rear has the electronic adjustment for damping and pre-load and I find it works pretty well. Finally, I will echo the recommendation to get training if you are not an experienced off-road rider and you want to take the bike off the tarmac.
G’day, I just found your comment. Thanks for the feedback. I’m having trouble with my Nav 6 and it is my fourth since I bought the bike. Cheers. Steve
Thanks. I just bought a 2021 40th anniversary, factory lowered as Im 5'8" on a good day- love it already. It's a total sweetheart - so compliant and quietly sophisticated. Looking forward to a month this summer from Vancouver, Canada up to the arctic circle.
Great video, thanks
Very welcome
Great video!
Simon Tonge cheers, thanks
I LOVE your DIY side stand extender. Everyone (!) at BMW should be ashamed that they force their customers into doing something like that.
Thanks, yeah, the factory stand could be fixed by BMW for 50 cents during production
Great video, Have just ordered a low seat for mine being vertically challenged. Yes I found the side does to short and all but level ground its difficult to get upright. This is my first adventure bike and its so comfortable on long journeys.
how tall are you? asking because I am also short :P
@@hexabr I am 5' 7". I can ride the bike with the normal seat which is more comfortable then the lowered seat but its a bit of a stretch and I don't feel comfortable, I have nearly dropped the bike a few times. The lowered seat is far better I can put both feet down.
you can get an adjustable side stand and big foot i got one its great
great video.
Thanks!
Thank you
I really like your story. I too ride a 850GSA. I rode mine from Miami to Thailand through 18 countries last year -- only crossing water from Toronto to London. I fall all the time on crap roads. Before that, I took my 2018 R1200GSA from Cartagena, Columbia (top of South America) to Ushuaia, Argentina (last road on earth south). I fell even more on that bike :). My next trip after this virus will likely be on a KTM 790 from Miami to South Africa. Why KTM? its a lighter bike and I am 5'9" tall. I love BMW... They never break -- and in my world travels I never pass a broken BMW but I see a ton of broken KTM's. But, I think lighter is better after my experience. For traveling the USA, its a R1200GSA which I do often -- crossing Miami to California. For South America, its a BMW F850. For Africa, it will be too much off road for either. Anyway, I like your video. Keep riding. I suck after all these years of adventure travel -- its actually embarrassing how bad -- but its fun to see the world. Good luck in your travels.
Hey thank you, I’ve subscribed to your channel and I’ll be watching your journeys too
@@StevesBikes01 Hahaha. I have not documented my tours on UA-cam. Check out my instagram at @Phil.deleon or web: www.phillipadeleon.com
better chance at watching my journeys.
Wasnt this Video frustrating enough with your BMW electronics!? Doesnt matter if the bike doesnt break, when the computer says i dont want to, what youre gonna do in the middle of nowhere?
It's Colombia, not Columbia
Daniel Garcia Bernal hahaha. I was there and I still didn’t know. Thanks. I’ll remember that from here on in.
Great Video Mate!
Glad you enjoyed it
Hey, Cool video. Nice work. I agree on the big tank, unless you are planning epic adventures I find the standard GS tank adequate... I need to plan my stops but I can ride 350kms on a tank so fuel is not an issue in the areas I ride. That said on longer trips I’ll carry a bit of gas just in case, but I don’t have to lug the 30l tank around all the time. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
Thanks mate, Steve, Australia. (Did you subscribe?)
Impressive explanation
Glad you liked it
Who gets stuk driving the luggage truck ?? lol. Great vid!
Good review mate. Especially the explanation of rider modes which I don’t think is explained very well in most videos!
Thanks again, what are you riding?
Nice review Steve.
Thank you very much, cheers
Great job! I just subscribed.
Thanks Michael, more coming in April, cheers
Big moto!
You mention the seat hight a bit. How tall are you out of curiosity ? I'm looking at getting this bike but use it more of a commuter bike. I'm 6'4 or 193cm
G'Day Matthew, i'm 5'4 or 1800mm. You won't have any issues with seat height, and may even need the flat bench style seat. Check out "Steve's Tesla" also if you're into EV's. cheers
Thank you Steve for this video! I love this bikes, looks so amazing! But I am begginer can i handle it? I 5’9 feet and 75kg?
Hi, I am 5'8" and 78kg I can handle it fine and you will too. But if you have never ridden off road before consider a 250cc, borrow or hire one first for a trial. Cheers
Apologies for the long post, but I can related to all the points you have raised!! So good that I have come across this video. I purchased my F 850 GSA new on July 2019. First adventure bike, but not my first bike. I have experienced the same issues!! Even carry a couple of spare batteries for the keyfob!!
Being 5' 7" (and shrinking) I struggled with the angle the stock side stand placed the bike on, even after adding that kickstand base enlarger.
I also got a lowered seat (I went with the Wunderlich low profile seat). A few months after buying the bike I went on a 6,127 miles trip during the course of 13 days (FL to CA and back).
For its intended purpose, this bike is an amazing tool!! It took everything without issues. Great fuel economy, amazing range, smooth ride no matter what road surface I was on; space for all my camping gear, food, tools, everything! And I have purchased the diagnostic computer, and a few specific tools for it... Move the GPS to the higher mount so I could see it with the tank bag on. Taller factory windshield got rid of any wind gust towards my helmet... Only got the side aluminum panniers as I use the top rack for camping gear. Love that it has tubeless wheel/tire setup (I carry a plug kit and air compressor)... it is an amazing bike.
I went into this purchase thinking long-term ownership. Thing is, I am not sure how long I will keep the bike... I just made the mistake of buying a taller bike than I can handle. That feeling of thinking I will drop it is not a good one. I had to be very conscious of where I parked, how I parked, any amount of incline on the wrong side and I had problems deploying the side stand and getting the bike to not tilt towards the right side when I was getting off... this sometimes meant asking for help from a fellow rider to hold the bike while I got out. Most times I just rode out and found a better parking spot, or tried the same stop from a different angle... This kind of sucks as I like everything about how the bike behaved during that long trip.
We have another trip like that (6K + miles this time from FL to Canada and back) planned for this September 2021 (if the COVID situation is under control) and I am struggling on whether to replace the bike for a new Honda Gold Wing or stick with it... I need to see if BMW offers those classes in the US... That could be of great help to avoid making a financial suicide by changing the bike so soon...
Anyway, again, apologies for the long post but your video was spot on and at a time where I am rethinking on what to do with the bike long term...
Stay safe and healthy!
Thanks for the feedback Jamie. I have found my confidence growing on the bike as I do more rides. I have another coming up in a few weeks so watch for the video. I am 1.8m and have learned that I can get the bike upright by siting down hard on it as I mount it and it sort of bounces upright. The training definitely helped me too, but I still have a long way to go as you will see in the BMW safari video on my channel. Cheers
@@StevesBikes01 that 5 cm difference in height makes a difference in my case, lol. Before coming to a stop I switch the suspension setting from dynamic to road to get it to its lowest setting. And yes, the bouncing technique, checked! Do not get me wrong, love the bike, I just need to learn a few more tricks to minimize the panic moments... I have been riding for over 20 years... this is the first bike where I have had this issue... and it was my fault for not test riding it before buying it (you would think that after 20 years riding I would have learned that bit).
Watching the Safari video now...
Subscribed and looking forward to your future videos!
@@Wachuko-1 Google for lowering kits for F850 GSA. You can lower it 40mm. The springs are same hight as original, but they are made progressive so, that the weight of the bike will set the high position lower and then when springs are in action, they harden progressively.
"The height lowering kit by Touratech Suspension, from the Dutch specialist Hyperpro. The set includes replacement fork springs and a replacement spring for the shock absorber. This spring set provides you with a sensible 40mm reduction in height without affecting the riding properties - at the expense of a little ground clearance. The progressive springs have been designed to match the BMW F850GS/Adventure perfectly, and offer a tremendous improvement in response and greater safety in extreme situations. Replacing the front and rear springs will lead to a significant improvement in your suspension system. Street legal.
Info: Only fits *BMW F850GS/Adventure from 2018 *
The replacement springs can be used both with and without ESA Equipment"
@2:38 Ah! The F850GS Adventure in its natural state! Love mine to death!
Yeah they are buggers to lift!
It looks like you are enjoying yours as well. I'm coming up on a year and it was the right bike for me. Do you still have the GTL? I sold mine and am ready to buy another. I miss that engine!
Dave Reinhart yeah I still have the GTL. I’ve been thinking of selling but know I will regret it so probably won’t as I’d never be able to get another
@@StevesBikes01 That is the trick, getting a second one after you sell the first. My advice: do not sell. It is a premium motorcycle that cannot be replaced.
Were you able to get the BarkBusters installed on your 850 GSA? Their website made it sound like they would interfere with the gas tank when the handlebars are turned to full lock position.
G'Day, I haven't had them fitted yet, the Bikeshop says they are available and the website shows this: barkbusters.net/what-fits-my/bmw/f850gs-2018-on/
Paul Ziegler I had them fitted last week, cheers
Thanks for the great video. You mentioned almost everything that came to my mind. I'm 165 cm and planning to buy a low seat and ride. Does it make sense? We'll see :)
Hope it works out, cheers
I can reach a normal Gs1250 and Im with the same height
Hello, great review. I have one question. I ride my bike in the winter and rainy days too. So the rain and wind protection is a deal breaker for me. I thought, because of bigger fuel tank , it prevents rain and wind and this bike is very suitable for me. What so you think? Im 185cm.
Best wishes from turkey
I've found the wide tank helps keep you dry on the freeway at higher speeds, however, riding slowly in the rain , it's not going to protect you much.
@@StevesBikes01 thank u 🙏
Hi Steve. Great Videos and getting Training does really make a difference. Have you Ridden a 1200GS? I have heard a lot of People say the 1200 is easier to Ride than the 850GS. Also the Weight is almost the same isn’t it.? I don’t know. I Ride a 2006 1200GS and Love it. It puts my Back in just the right position to where I don’t hurt. I have 4 Fusions in my Neck and 3 in my Lower Back. I would love to do a BMW Adventure Ride, but don’t think it would a great idea with my problems. I do love to ride some Dirt Roads, and Trails that are on the easier side. Anyway, Thanks for the Videos, Subscribed.👍👍
Thanks Joey, I’ve only done short rides on the 1200 and no serious dirt, too heavy for me to consider. Cheers
Mister steves You have soo much motorcycle I need one 850 🖐️😚😙😀
Sensacional
thank you, cheers
Steve, Maschine adv tours has just released info on a 4-day ride from Bowral - Blue Mountains-Bathurst etc 3-6 Dec, you may be interested? I’m looking forward to getting my F850GS Adventure out on the dirt for a few days. Cheers.
Hi, thanks for the tip off i'll look into it. Cheers
I cant find their website can you send me a link?
구독 했어요^^ 아저씨 재밌네 ㅎㅎ
@9:29 ... the proud stance of a BMW owner, must be smth tought at the BMW riding days event :P I know, I know .... I am mean
Gotta love a good no BS Aussie review. I am about to come off a Tiger 800 XRx which it the road orientated model with a low seat that takes it to 810mm. At 5'9" and about your vintage, I can almost put both feet flat on the ground. I am about to order the GSA and to keep my feet firmly planted on a heavier 244kg bike I have decided to go the low seat/suspension option taking it to 815mm. In that configuration the electronic suspension is not included and will save about $800. Thanks to shortages on electronics that system cant be sourced by BMW, so any order for models with that are on hold, which wont effect me thankfully. How have you found the weight of the bike, which is my only real concern?
Thanks, before you lower the suspension, take a look at the BMW masterclass video in this link. A few minutes in discussing seat height and the one foot down technique. You might find you don’t need the lower suspension and can get the cool electronics instead. The weight is manageable, I can pick mine up by myself although you need to use the right technique. You might also like Steve’s Tesla on UA-cam. Cheers. ua-cam.com/video/ZkW5uNGl1OU/v-deo.html
@@StevesBikes01 thanks Steve. How often would you need to adjust the suspension? I’ve never thought to on my old tiger.
At the moment all orders for GSAs are on hold that feature the electronic adjustment as the components are not available hence why I’m not fussed to go the low suspension .
@@SurfnPics honestly I’ve never changed it from the factory setting. I’m 79kg, 1800mm tall. Even two up I’ve not changed it. Good luck you won’t regret the 850. Cheers
@@SurfnPics if you mean change from Road to Enduro Pro, I do that whenever I leave the tarmac. But I’ve never adjusted the preload other than using the electronic controls
Hi Steve I've noticed you get through the Highlands a Bit on a few now of your video's are you Local to The Highlands ??? Also i am also considering a GSA 850 Ive riden all my life and now have a Back injury so think the GSA Might just be the way to continue riding what Are your thoughts on this and once i make my purchase I would be more than Happy to get out and About with You, Im a late 40's bloke with a yearning for more motorcycling adventures and now have the time to carry out these trips Thanks for looking at my Comment and Safe Trails and Trips
G'Day Shane, i live in Thirroul NSW. The rides I have done have been organised trips and they have gone through the Highlands. I hope your injury doesn't prevent you getting back on a bike. I've only had the 850 for 12 months I've always been a road rider so I'm new to this game. I expect I'll see you out there one day. Cheers
@@StevesBikes01 Hi Steve Thirroul is a Place I often went through to go to picton for a refreshing cool Aid haha Thanks for your reply I am always happy to plot a day or two or three day trip or even a week if it suits you ?? My Dad would be more than happy to take my 4wd and a trailer as support i will definitely post on one of your video's and try to arrange a meet up to try get a trip organised Stay safe and in good health until we chat next take CARE !!!!
Where can I buy the red quick plug riding mode pro?😥🙏🙏🙏🙏
I’m sure BMW is the only source
did you noticed a ratheling sound kind of sowing machine noise coming out of the top of the engin
G'day, I think when it is cold or if i'm in a high gear on a hill there would be a noise like that. However i clicked over 23,000km today and I still think the bike runs like new. Check your oil level if worried. See "Steve's Tesla" too on UA-cam if you're into EV's. Cheers
Save yourself $4,000 and buy the 750. Same engine, same chassis. Just without the TFT and a few other things.
Nice review. May I know your height?
I am planning to get one but I am doubtful about seat height. I am 168cm.
Hello, I'm also about 1.7m. Cheers
Nice review, thank you! Re: seat height, what’s your inseam? How much did you wind up taking off your seat (and did you narrow it as well)? And can you now flat foot both feet when stopped? Cheers!
G'Day, I am 1.8m tall. I took off as much as would allow the seat to remain comfortable. I know that doesn't help much, didn't narrow it though. I can sit with the balls of my feet on the road in ROAD mode, but the auto suspension lifts a bit in Enduro Pro mode so I am still on my tip toes. I now use the one foot technique and slide to the side of the seat. Cheers.
@@StevesBikes01 thanks mate, helpful indeed, need to investigate custom seats myself. Cheers!
I'd say you picked up wrong tyres for muddy roads. Karoo 3 is slippery in the mud and grass as sh*t.
And side stand on africa twin is the same short and small - so you are not alone with this issue. Cheers
Thanks, i'm trying Karoo 4's next time, i hope they are better. cheers
I did not hear well you would change it for...?? With the fact you don't need that big fuel tank ...
Hello from Canada 🇨🇦
Wind noise I cut out. I was saying I could have got the standard 850 with the smaller tank and saved weight. Cheers
@@StevesBikes01 thank you, great and honest video I like getting feed back from day to day from normal folks, a part from the professional riders.
Hi, How tall You're?
And, after modification of seat, what is the higth of the bike?
Thanks
Hi, I am 1800mm tall. After the seat mod I can get one foot down flat or two feet on my toes. This is in road mode. When you select dynamic or enduro the suspension lifts up a few cm more. Once you get used to it, it is easy, but at first it’s a bit alarming. Cheers
Thank You for your answer.
Have a nice day. I like your videos.
Kind regards
Do you feel the 850 is better all around than the 1250? I’m trying to decide between the two.
G'Day "Jim", I rode the 1200 on the experience day and I could handle it fine. My decision for the 850 was driven by wanting to be able to go out alone sometimes and at least have a chance of being able to pick it up if I dropped it. I've since learned that picking up the 1250 is easier as the piston heads give you an advantage as the bike doesn't lie totally flat like the 850 does. The 850 is fine for long distance touring, I've done 8 hour days on it. I am not at all disappointed with the 850. Sometimes, on technical rides I look longingly at the 250cc bikes who buzz past me as they are even easier to throw around. So it's going to depend on the type of riding you plan to do. Cheers.
@@StevesBikes01 thanks for the quick reply
@@StevesBikes01 Hi Steve, how does the 850GS do at Highway Speeds if your Traveling for a Distance?
So will this be a good bike for a 6’6 guy?
G'Day, yes I think you will have an advantage in handling this bike. Try the different seat heights available from your dealer. I expect you will drive it away with no need to modify the seat. Cheers
How tall are you?
G'day, I'm 1.8 meters tall, just average. cheers
aff road
africa twin spurt 1000
ktm super 1290
on road
gs 1200 adv . super tenere 1200
May I ask how tall you are?
Me? I’m 1800mm or 5foot 8 inches in the old money! Cheers
So how tall are you?
G'day Dave, I'm 5 foot 8, about 1.8m tall. cheers
@@StevesBikes01 Thanks
BMW has a three (3) year warranty. Most people that buy BMW motorcycles (l've owned 3) sell the bike after the warranty run out & buy another to get another three (3) year warranty. This behavior happens because BMWs break & have issues more than many other motorcycles and to fix a BMW with *_no warranty_* you will pay out the nose, it will be painful.
Just a heads up. Today I ride Hondas (Africa Twin Sports Adv. model) due to this reliability issue.
better go ktm 890 adventure
@@ajmf-hy8qt How is KTM's record of reliability 🤔
@@sweetcostarica same as bmw with better bikes
@@ajmf-hy8qt If the reliability of KTM is the same as BMW, *_how do KTM have better bikes_* 🤔.
Please note:
BMW motorcycles sell more motorcycles and makes much more money than KTM.
Also, note:
Remember for the same reliability -
(EDIT:
*_KTM_* has,
- 6 month warranty on some bikes
- a 1 year warranty on a few motorcycles
- and a 24 month warranty on some as their longest warranty)
*_BMW_* has a 3 year warranty for *_all_* 2022 motorcycles. And in 2023 will start a 4 year warrantyfor *_every_* bike they sell.
The BMWs don’t have reliability issues! I Ride a 2006 R1200GS and have yet to have a problem. They are so easy to Work on , I do all my own Maintenance and I’m Disabled! Did you ever do any Maintenance on yours? I think your just a KTM Rider that’s trying to put down BMWs!!!
Just goes to show or prove it does not matter how long you have been doing something if you learn nothing in that time or fail to experience new things.
Frightening just how useless some so called experienced riders are on the road. In my humble opinion.
Proves these cbt courses plus A1 A2 etc are just bureaucratic nonsense .
Try a Himalayan , ditch the status & relax. Horses for courses ..................
I use to ride as a kid. Then I got older & wiser. Damn I was polluting the air!
God Damn riding computer....i would only buy it if you can remove all the electronics. And it is too heavy for off road, this is a comfortable touring bike with off road marketing!
Ok... One year review and you start with seat height! Then GPS navigation, then sidestand extension. Then Pro riding modes. Then Master Class Off road course.
All this has nothing to do with one year review I think.
By that time I lost intrest in your “One Year Review”
Bye.
Thanks for the feedback, I'll try harder next time
@@StevesBikes01 You did great Steve. You don’t want People like that on your Channel anyways. Some People just hate everything.👍👍
worst bike i ve ever owned
really, what didnt you like?
@@StevesBikes01 he probably didn’t.
How tall are you?
G’day, I’m about 5 foot 8 inches in the old money
Steve's Bikes just about my height. Think I will have the same problem, it may not suite me as daily urban commute... I wonder if the Africa Twin is about the same...