2016 BMW R1200GS Adventure | First Ride & Review
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- Опубліковано 25 вер 2024
- The title says it all! Finally got to ride the r1200gs adventure, after years of drooling over this class creator, and it did not disappoint.
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Cheers,
Duke
Ridden superbikes my whole life and even raced a couple seasons. Went to a BMW dealership today to test out the s1000r and was gonna head to the aprilia and ktm dealerships after to hit up the tuono and superduke. I had been eyeing adventure bikes after my last race season because I, like you, love to go anywhere do anything. After jumping on the GSA I never made it to the other dealerships ;)
I rode one yesterday and loved it man. It doesn't hold a candle to the XR when it comes to acceleration or cornering, but when it comes to logging miles, it's a really good place to be.
Didn't know BMW makes cars...
LOL
UAE Riders I tried both and I feel like the BMW is a bit better, smoother suspension and fits better for shorter people (me).
BMW started out making aeroplane engines, which is where the logo comes from - it represents a propellor.
@@matchlessajsbsa2157 actually the BMW logo is not a propeller it is the Bavarian flag. 4 years too late?
I rode this bike on a trip through France, absolutely amazing experience, blew me away. I rode 750 miles in a few days on it, super comfortable, something I wasn't expecting considering I'm used to a much lower riding position and forward pegs. Currently have a Kawasaki Vulcan 900. I would buy one in a heart beat if I could afford one.
From a 2015 BMW GS on nobbies to Yamaha Super Tenere 1200 on nobbies.
Just to let you guys know - I'm an Australian long distance explorer with a bias to dirt performance, as we have lots of dirt and desert here. I need highway comfort as well ie good faring protection, crusie control, heated grips etc etc.
I ended up buying a Yam after riding one for 6 weeks in the Flinders Ranges (6000kms) - and these are the main reasons why I changed.
Biggest surprise is that the Yamaha is noticeably better on dirt. Its geometry is a bit more dirt orientated and I'm more confidant riding it hard and letting the tail hang out then with the GS.
The weight is defiantly lower in the Yamaha, and it feels lighter to ride at all speeds.
The torque seems to better placed on the rev meter than the GS. The Yam just pulls from any gear at lower revs.
Much prefer the suspension setting on the Yam. Get a bit tired of settings like "sport" "Road" "Dynamic" "Enduro". These settings don't tell what your doing with suspension. I want to know about the actual pre-load settings, and how hard or soft damping is set. Considering you might ride dirt on hard or soft settings - depending on how you want to ride a section of dirt, you need actual readings, not titles of what the settings might be.
I'm actually more comfortable with reliability on the Yam as well.
Summary - In Australia exploring far away roads, and pushing the bike hard, I think the Yam is better. Travelling the tar in comfort with bell and whistles I think the GS is better.
I'm a kid (13) and I want that bike for my first bike aswell cause it's a really nice bike for long tours and I love the look of it
Pulsix I know that you might want that as your first bike, but I strongly advise against it. Unless you have previous experience of dirt biking, but otherwise, get a 250 or a 650
Markulator What he said, jumping straight into that much power and weight isnt easy
this mfer is now 20 years old
Your review was one I watched multiple times before going over to dealer and riding one. I pulled the trigger on a new gs triple black. Traded in my Harley awesome bike no complaints just too one dimensional. Thanks for taking the time to do the review great job. Sub
That's so awesome man! Congratulations on the new GS!!!
I have dreamed of having a BMW ADV bike for a long time . Now the 1200 is even better. Thanks for the ride along.
You're welcome!
You should try the 2017 GSA and you'll be amazed with the improvements over the 2016 model - especially the gear box and the smoothness of the engine.
here am I back supporting you. this bike is fucking huge! you were absolutely dwarfed by it! ;)
I just bought a loaded 2018 BMW 1200 gsa with 450miles! im vibrating w/excitement. Dude put probably 5k of accessories on it too.
I love your intro and Sir. LOL. I watched it 5 times.
And your way of speaking is similar to Deadpool, Ryan Reynolds. Awesome!
Thanks man!! Yo speaking like Ryan Reynolds is a compliment in my book big time lol
I have been asking you to review this bike and now you have, this channel is officially the best, Duke you're the man.
Heyyy what can I say :D I do what I can!
DukeOfDC Dude now all you have to do is ride the New Triumph Tiger explorer xca and compare it to the GSA and Multistrada enduro, I still think the Multistrada is the best bike of all because of the power but I may be wrong. I can't wait to get a ride for myself on it. Anyway, awesome stuff as always.
I think that GS1200 ADV is "Zombie Apocalipsis Ready"
Mine is the Olive Green version for late 2015.. Grettings from California!!
Ah yes, the one and only Duke of D.C. The man who convinced me to buy the Kriega R25 and instilled my unwaverable love for Aprilia and other Euro bikes into my heart. Even though I'm currently new and rocking a CBR600RR (best Japanese 600cc street bike, IMO. The overrated R6 has nothing on this machine. Defo test it if you haven't), I hope to one day join your ranks in the Euro bike marketplace!
Hahaha, thanks man! Good luck on your quest into the euro bike market!
Awesome! Just picked up a 2007 R1200GSA, can confirm is a truly wonderful bike - even coming to 10 years old!
Congratulations!! I hope you have some awesome adventures!
First person to get me to look seriously at this bike. I have never reviewed a BMW. You made me put BMW on my list. Liked and subbed
This comment made my day! Thanks for taking the time to watch!
DukeOfDC we can check others playlist out and geek out. Especially since our interest in bikes differ. Keep those videos coming. Your good at what you do.
22 mins of pure smart review
ur a guy i would love to meet someday
Thank you! Well never say never my friend!
I very much get it. This was my first dream bike! Long Way Around got me hooked to this bike. KTM really bungled things up when they didn't provide bikes to that crew.
Worst marketing mistake ever haha. Yeah man, I just love the idea of leaving everything behind and having a true and honest adventure. One day.
This may not be your next one but, you will get it someday... There is no other bike that gives me the feeling of loving to ride. I call it the SUV of the bikes.
I'm with you man! And I know you're right. It may not be what's next, but it is without question what's to come in a few years.
I am 5.85 tall and on my GS LC I have some problems if the ground is not flat or when I turn back .. sometimes it`s a real struggle moving it backwards so I have to be really careful where I park :) Otherwise your review about the normal GS was one of the most inspiring and convinced me to get back on two wheels after a long 6-year break. Thank you !
+Xandros that's incredible special to me man, thank you. I'm glad I could inspire you to get back on two after a 6 year break :D
This bike is just amazing, is like riding a big SUV :D
+Den Dimas it's an absolute beast, and yet it rides like a feather haha
Den Dimas wih ada den dimas :D, hello, I'm your fan :3
I hope you get the GSA. I'm also somewhat younger (at least to be considering a GS) and I'm 100% sure a GSA will be my next bike. If you get it I can live vicariously through you in the mean time.
Hahaha I feel you on the "live vicariously through you" vibes. That's what I do for a ton of things lol
Love to see a vid on how it is better the Ducati Endure.
What video and com system are you using.. ?
0:10 "If the moon was made of cheese, would ya eat it?? I know I would."
Good video as I'm on the lookout for one of these. It's a bit odd though having the screen adjuster on the right hand side of the bike when everybody knows (except BMW it seems) that the rider will use his left hand to adjust.
What camera are you using? Even though this was created 6 years ago the picture quality is amazing.
I'm 5'7" and im going to get this bike. I just dont care what ppl are going to say about me not flat-footing it. Its all about the riding experience.
I think you’ll do just fine, especially with the suspension and seat configured to a lower height
Thank you, sir. I just subscribed. Maybe next time u can make a video about mid controls and seat setting for short people like me. or do u have it already? im sorry i meant suspension not mid controls. lol. i was thinking about another bike im gonna get.
Test rode this exact bike. Bought a white R1200 GSA that just came in. I also test rode the Ducati Enduro, found the BMW much more to my liking.
+Callsign Vega there is just something special about the GSA. BMW certainly knows that it's doing - congratulation on your purchase!
well, I wouldn't call this the segment starter. There was the Cagiva Elephant that started the segment (won the Dakar) and the original Africa Twin.
It is considered the leader, although I'm not sure how mich of this is actually well oiled company PR.
Great vid!
I ride a 2012 GSA and looked at the RT, but just love this bike too much. I can go anywhere and do anything I feel like, when riding. 300 to 500 miles of riding is easy on this bike. Good review.
Thank you! I agree, this is a true mile muncher
Great video of a great bike! Good job! Best regards from Germany!
Thanks bud!
My question is how do all the GSA 1200 oil & water cooled stack up as they get older 10 yrs plus ? Has anyone done any reviews on older models when they hit 10yrs plus?
You've mentioned, but gave no clear answer about its behaviour in traffic. Could you share your thoughts about, please?
Because of the height it isn't the easiest bike to scoot along on, but there was no heat from the engine that was overwhelming, it was extremely comfortable, and the throttle response was perfect in road mode for the slow speed stuff.
Almost 6k subs! u are doing good duke!! As always keep it up!
Yess!!! Should hit 6k this week :D
Great video - really enjoyed it - nice presentation of an awesome bike. I'm thinking of replacing a 1994 R100GS - this would be a huge leap in technology. One question - the audio in your video is so clear - what are you using as a microphone? Would love to know - wind noise is a pain....
I'm 5'6" with 28"/29" inseam. Riding Harley's all my life. Love the GS but I have to use tippy toes to hols it up. Of course that's only at stops so I guess...just don't stop much right? lol
You betcha, the same people who make the cars.
all generation BMW GSA's are awesome bikes.
Now if only BMW would lend me one for a while ;)
I dont have money to buy this.. but one day maybe i can afford this 2016 gsa, amazing one.. had a chnace to do a test ride, awesome boxer twin… from Canada btw..
Love the cameo from Bernie Sanders! How does he not know BMW makes bikes?
Hahahaha, yeah he was in his own little world. Very nice guy though
Great vid. Old guys comment was brilliant! Keep em coming 👍
Hahaha glad you enjoyed that.
Nice channel. Just subscribed. I own the 2016 XR which I love, but truth be told if I win the lottery I would probably buy an R1200GSA, S1000RR and S1000R... so many good bikes!
Lol! I agree man.
That was exactly what I told my friend who was much shorter than me to do when he was skeptical about the height of the GS. he threw a leg over my GSLC and the rest is history...
Exactly! Assuming is such a nasty thing - anyone can ride this bike.
I'm excited for u getting your new motorcycle duke I hope u enjoy it like you enjoyed your tuono great channel by the way I think your content is awesome👍👍
Thank you!! Loving the support man :D
The beginning of this vid is hilarious. That dude reminds me of Will Ferrells' skit of Harry Carey
Glad you enjoyed the video!
How is it different from the 2015?
Have you rode the Triumph Tiger Explorer yet? Imo the Tiger Explorer is the 1200 GSs biggest competitor
I have not, but have started hearing a lot of the same good things about it. It's on my short list of bikes to test ride.
Thanks for the superb detail review bro
How do you bump start a keyless start motorcycle 😮
Good point! Interesting... Especially for an adventure machine that anything could happen too. I imagine there is a physical ignition somewhere and a physical key as part of the wireless fob
If the problem is dead battery - you can't bump start it since it's fuel injected and you need fuel pump pressure.
When I test drove the GSA I fell in love with it.......except the price! I opted for a Super Tenere ES instead. The Tenere is a great bike, but does not even come close to the refinement of the BMW. Reliability of the Yamaha is a major reason why I stick with the brand. I know I will end up with a GSA eventually, but not now?
I know that price is brutal :/ one day though. Yamaha's are fantastic bikes, and I totally agree that their reliability and running costs make them great long term bikes.
I'm researching and have found some info on reliability. Any thoughts/experience or comments would be greatly appreciated.
Haha that intro is brilliant! What model/year is the blue bike in the parking lot of that dealership?
My friend, what gloves are those?
Great bike... I could only wish ..
I rode the Ducati multi enduro 1200 today , and omg... I'd love to try out the Triumph...
I am itching to get on the explorer too.
You can have the speedo as a digital read out, no idea if someone has said this already
I think I stated that at some point in the video, but thanks!
@DukeofDc, seems this video has the most views of them all! I'm curious...what have you heard in terms of reliability of this bike? Also, compared to them KTM 1290, Multistrada and Super Tenere (assuming you've ridden them) would you take the GS over the rest?
Great video, thank you. I am looking at this bike as my next one and I always buy used so the 2016 is among the models I am shopping for. Seat height is an issue for me as I am about 5'8". I am looking at the low suspension model.
Thanks for the video, I enjoyed it pretty much. i had same impressions than you and at first felt too scared to ride it but I took the bull by the horns and tested it. Oh gosh... hard to come back to the Rt1200 from 2010 after that. I actually tested the same here in Switzerland. I tried the GS2016 but didn't like it because it was a bit too thin - I'm used now to have something big and wide in front of my eyes now. The decision is made, I have an appointment tomorrow and will buy it... can't wait !! By the way, did you try the k1600 2016? It's worth it, very impressive, really. Thanks!
Ah see that thinness at the center point is great for shorter riders like me that are trying to get there feel down with all the might that they can muster lol
Great review !! you,ve convinced me to purchase a1200gs
Thank you!! Congratulations on your decision, and I wish you all the best in the purchase process
I actually traded in my '13 RSV4 for an Aprilia Caponord Rally. Miss the V4 but love the Capo.
Glad to hear you're enjoying your Capo!
I'm the same height and inseam - 5'9" with 30" inseam - and i've been considering this or the RT 1200. I have a 2hr (one-way) interstate commute and i was wanting something comfortable (but not 1600 GT type comfortable/boring) with a little bit of fun for the twisties (i typically prefer SPORTtourer over sportTOURER). Would you recommend this or the RT 1200 or maybe the Ducati Multistrada 1200s?
I am a bit in the same situation as you are and doing my commute on an R1200RT since 2011, on the new liquid cooled R1200RT as of 2014. I ride in all sorts of weather conditions, except for snowfall, and find the R1200RT to be an ideal bike to commute. The mileage is good, wind protection is superb whilst still being able to look over the stock windscreen. The bike shares a lot of optional accessories with the K1600GT, but total cost is less. If you're looking for an even more sportier sporttourer than the R1200RT, then you should consider the K1600GT (not the K1600GTL). The GT is like the R1200RT, but with a six in line engine and a xenon headlight. The K1600GTL, which DukeofDC test rode before is a sort of tuned down version of the K1600GT: looks almost the same, more bling-bling, less responsive on the throttle and a more Goldwing-ish style riding position (sofa-like) than being on a bike-bike. ;) But for commuting, the BMW R1200GS(A), R1200RT or even the K1600GT are all good in their own right. The only difference is comfort, fuel consumption and what you want to do with it in your spare time.
First 10 seconds, by far the FUNNIEST UA-cam video of all times
+TheVilouboy hahahaha made an entire video of just interactions with him, if you search my channel for eccentric old man
Nice Review. Can you please tell us what was the seat height you were riding with. is it 890 mm or lowered ?
It was the stock seat, in the low seat position. Not sure what exact height that is though.
Nice review. The GS or GSA have been bikes I've been considering buying. But as I am currently owning the R1200RT, I feel I will be missing some comfort. Did you ever test-ride the R1200RT or R1200RS?
I have not, but can get out on one soon! Or even both, back to back
Lucky guy, you get the ride the coolest bikes.
:D It's been a serious privilege.
Hey it's a tough job but someones got to do it!
BMW has Hill Start Control optional on many bikes, probably including this model.
I think that's only on the massive KL1600, but I didn't know until I looked it up.
Nice review. I'll be shocked if you go this route after the Tuono...Vs the XR or the RR, etc. I still love my 07 GSA, but this is worlds different than your Tuono. Looking forward to seeing what you get next...thanks.
I love to through wrenches into what people 'think' I'll do lol.
Ahhhh now this makes me want to test ride the Tiger Explorer. 😈😈😈
Get the GS, I'll get the Tiger and we'll go riding out west into the sunset!
Hahaha it's all about the TAT man!!
+DukeOfDC dude, yessssss. I'm going to do it.
That bike is awesome you should get that as your next bike
Maybe not next, but definitely some time in my future.
that is an awesome bike. how much are they selling it for?
Really great bike. I'm 18 and 5'9 as well and I love the gsa it's so comfortable to ride. We normally ride 300-500 km weekly and 1000km for long distances. It has great balance and less hot than other bikes I've ridden. I'm not a naked and superbike fan since I have problems with my back and So many ugly roads in my country plus I'm more of an off-road, long distance, adventurous nut. My dad owns a 2016 1200gsa and I have a super Tenere both are great bikes. We might get an 1190 or another GSA for me since the adventure class is the only class I like. I'm from the Philippines and traffic here is hell and the GSA is the only bike I enjoy riding in the hellish traffic here and its size does not bother me at all when filtering haha.
Dude that is so awesome, and let me just say I am so jealous of your location and just how much adventure riding you must have available to you!
It's awesome especially when you get a chance to ride such a beast but apparently the cost of the bike here when converted to USD is around 32,000 dollars without any accessories on it. We have lots of fun messing around with the bikes especially when filtering traffic. Its hard as hell compared to what I see in the US and UK and the roads have tons of pot holes, bumps and uneven surfaces but is really fun when we use the GSA haha.
Great Vid I brought my bike from Batley Cycle thanks to Bobs BMW..LOL.. 2016 GSA will be my next bike after im done with my 2013(12)GSA Triple Black.. Im not sold on the 18,19 model but love them all.. And Love that RED>! WOW.. Your Aprilla Sounds amazing
Oh Seth, try the 1250. The torque is lovely. I wont get it since I refuse to pay more than 15/16K on a motorcycle, but you might like the power.
Great vid.. Since you have ridden the GS .. Do you see a difference between the GSA and GS ?
If so which one would get ? Thx for your input
No difference in power, and no noticeable difference in weight when riding. I would personally buy the GSA though because "go big or go home" lol
+DukeOfDC hahahha of course
Loved the vid Duke, I think that that would be an awesome bike to have!👍😄
The true jack of all trades!
Excellent video and a great bike by the looks of things.
It's a class creator and leader.
Hi Duke, I would imagine it,s an option in the states too but I have got the 2016 with a lowered chassis, i'm about the same size as you and I can get both feet flat, makes a huge difference when coming to a stop.
Had a normal height GS last year and was always having to think about road cambers etc.
This bike is awesome, everything about it, best bike iv'e owned, suppose it fucking should be too cos it's by far the most expensive one iv'e owned
Spent most of my life on sportsbikes and loved them but this bike has given me a new lease of life.
Me and a mate are riding from UK to Croatia in 4 weeks time, the scenic way over the alps, island hopping the Croatian coast to Dubrovnik, then back via Venice, the Dolomites and a couple of days in Switzerland doing as many passes as we can, wouldn't be doing that on my fireblade
You should make this your next bike!!
Yeah getting my feet flat on the ground has been something of a dream lol. I do like how commanding the high seat is, but I do have to be careful when I come to a stop. Glad you're enjoying the bike! I need to fly out and do these swiss passes with you guys haha.
Wait a second...are the mirrors the same? o0
That they are!
if you haven't pulled the trigger on one of these yet, I'd urge you to try the Triumph Explorer 1200. You get all the same toys as the Beemer but with a much smoother motor and gearbox, the same level of comfort and low seat height, and you'll save a couple of grand into the bargain. I love my 2015 Explorer and have done some long days on it, and from 2016 you get the semi active suspension and all the electrical aides
No triggers have been pulled yet! A ton of people want me to take out the Explorer. If the gearbox is indeed smoother than it's probably incredible because that was one of the biggest cons on the GSA, clunky as a mother working through the gears with the quickshifter.
+DukeOfDC I loved the big GS when i tested it (right up until it rocked off its stand and cracked the left rocker cover) it almost ticked all the boxes, but at this premium price point, it should be near perfect but I found the gear box to be very agricultural and I felt some vibes at higher revs. The GS is probably the better bike off road, but seeing as they spend 99.9% of their lives on the highway the big Triumph ticked all the boxes for me.
I have to make a comment about the intro. Something similar actually happened to me.
Some dude stopped me and was pointing at my bike like something was wrong. I turned off the GSA and my SENA music and said "HUH?" and he pointed again and said to me "Why you put that?" ... Put what I asked.. He pointed at the BMW logo on the side and said again "Why you put that?"... I said "its a BMW" to him and he waved his hand dismissively while blowing through his lips and teeth at me and walked off like i was lying to his face...
Strange that people across the world do not know that BMW made motorcycle way before they made cars... LOL so sad
how tall are you?
Seems like you're getting closer and closer to the conclusion that it doesn't have to be an either/or proposition and you'll need at least two bikes. :)
Hahaha, you know what, I've been at that consensus for a long long time lol. Just need to get my wallet in the right mind set.
I've known people that have had them and swapped not long after to the triumph tiger. not sure why, but then they not my style of bike anyway. maybe you could take a look?
Interesting. I'll have to ride one and see for myself!
I am not sure which tiger (probably not the sport) they swapped for. Looking it seems there are options upon options...
Duke - Love the videos -- keep them coming!
Thank you!! :D I'll try and ride harder for you next time ;)
Hi Duke, what is your favorite bike of all time? :) Love your channel ... keep it up
hmmmm maybe the BMW HP4, although I truly adore my Super Duke
Have you done a review of the BMW F800R?
I have not, but can!
DukeOfDC I'm thinking of buying that bike. I really enjoyed your review of the GS so I'd love to hear your thought on the F800R. Thanks for the great content.
wow amazing!! I test rode 2 ducatis here!!! I also met the same sian guy (sorry I forgot his name). did he tell you where the speed cameras are? :)
edit: kept watching the video his name is Sam
Sam is the man, and yes he alerted me of the camera's. Hope you had a wonderful experience with Battley
Awesome machine.... and no its not a big bike.... me and my wife got adventures and live in them.... You'll never look back.... ENJOY!!!
Very cool man! I hope to adventure with my girl some day. She would only ride on something like this, as the Tuono scares the shit out of her lol
Yeh,, the Tuano is BEAST MODE!!!
+DukeOfDC can you start reviewing Japanese bikes (r6)
Trying!!! None of the dealerships around me will let me take bikes out :(
Hey from semi local guy picked one up from Bobs BMW great bike
Hello and welcome!
In Romania we call it "the cow" .. not the "mechanical horse" :) but it's all in good fun
this baby can reach 800km on one tank , nice
Yeah. ......if you freewheel for about 400 km.
So you own it now?
I don't :( If only though!
Amazing machines! Also it wouldn't be 270 without some traffic for no reason.
Haha right?! Freaking 9:45 in the morning on a Saturday and I still can't avoid it -_-
great video mate. keep it up
Thank you!!
lol - No. No. Really like the videos, and how thoughts are articulated. That is genuine! Low key burn? Probably. But, on the short-shifting, only. I can definitely understand on the demos. But, you were doing it on the Tuono with the factory pipe. Although, I'm sure that that was loud enough. I wasn’t sure if it was an indication of ‘rider’ comfort level. Not an attack, just a thought that ran in my head, as I watched the vids. As a viewer, wanted to hear more of the Tuono Thunder!
Trust me, I’m no real racer! Or even close to.
I’d like to have the ADV myself.
Hahaha no worries man. But yeah, I just don't ride very hard. Not yet at least - still have a lot to learn, and need to get more comfortable, and trust my bike.
19 seconds in you gota like anda subscribe!! hoooooddoooaaannnnnnn
P Murphy thanks man!!!!
I rode the 2015 Black Edition R1200GS and absolutely hated the gearbox! Changing gears felt like crap, also did not like the wobbly windscreen at higher speeds. Other than that the bike is good.
Yeah, I wasn't a huge fan of how clunky the shifts felt, but maybe when you break it in things get a bit smoother.
DukeOfDC I asked the guy straight after about the gearbox and he said that's just the ways these big GS's feel..
Nice review. Thanks.
The same people that make the car?
lolz
Love your vids :)