BMW S1000XR: Is the 2020 model better? Owner road test review
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ก.ค. 2024
- #BMW #S1000XR #review
For exclusive discounts on bike kit, visit: bit.ly/BennettsRewardsXR
Read the full review here: bit.ly/BennettsS1000XR-Review
For every bike review, visit: www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial
Bennetts BikeSocial review of the new for 2020 BMW S1000XR. But is it better than the 2015-2019 model? We find out as the owner of the previous version road tests the latest update...
Givi Luggage: www.givi.co.uk/
Evotech Performance: evotech-performance.com/
SUBSCRIBE FOR OTHER VIDEOS & UPDATES
th-cam.com/users/subscription_...
LET’S CONNECT!
Twitter ▻ / bennetts_bike
Facebook ▻ / bennettsbike
Instagram ▻ / bennetts_bike - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Loved the end of the review when your daughter said "did I interupt?" and you "yeah but it doesn't matter." true father! 😊👊🏽
same!! was cute
I sat on a new XR & I found the seat SO uncomfortable. It pushes you into the tank & crushes your nuts.
I am that man and I made my 2019 XR more aggressive than it already is,and a few kilos lighter.
I don't think the 2020 could live with mine.
I had 2019 for a weekend in Wales and loved the extreme speed and ability to overtake in a flash. I was going for a 2020 but maybe not now. What did you do to yours Jeff, to make it even more aggressive?
I always enjoy Bennetts reviews for their 'down to earth'-ness. No jargon, practical and friendly. Nice one John.
Cheers for that! John
Thank you for mentioning the vibration issues... Was waiting to see a review talking about this problem.
Great review, well presented. Fantastic relationship with your family, highlights a good human. New sub 👍🏻
Great informative video mate! Like you, I’m sticking to my 2019!
Great review very well done!!! Thanks for the technical information...🤩
Great review nice to see owner difference with old and new. I have 2017 XR se for one year now, it was my back to bike choice and boy do I love it every time I get on it. As you said great all rounder and for me, my only bike.
Not to many reviews on the 1000 more 900 but for me 1000 I will definitely take your advice when it comes change at the moment I cannot see changing it and when it's time could very well be another XR Might keep it could become a classic...😎🖖
Fantastic review!
great review, love your current bike, ? triple black, good to hear evotech fix the handle bar vibes
Great review.
Having listened to it and looking at the cost increase of swapping I'll be sticking with my 2018 model for another couple of years thanks.
txs for your review.
I just got my 2019 triple black two weeks ago, new from the showroom, with a considerable discount.
It's my first bike and I really like it, although I have nothing to compare it with, so your reviews where very helpful.
In spite of what people would think, with all the electronics and specially the incredible quickshifter, it seems to be a nice beginners bike for a big, old man to me. (I'm 53 yo, 6'3" and a 250 pounds, grew up on a cattle farm)
Also thanks for the chocolatier, that is about an hour drive from where I live, so I will certainly give that a go.
Great review. Would love to see a ride review comparison between both new XR’s which also includes comments on the ergonomics for different “sized” riders.
Thanks, good in-depth review think you covered all aspects
The family stuff at the end is the best!!! Congrats for the best vid ever for this stunning bike!
Thanks very much! All the best, John
Thanks for the preliminary first look/review. I look forward to a thorough one in dry weather.
I don’t own the XR, but have rented it for distant long tours through mountain twisties. The XR is my favorite sport-touring bike with the Multistrada 1260 S being my second. I own the 2020 S1000RR, which is a fantastically amazing machine, and a 2016 K1300S.
From a spec perspective, I really like what BMW has done with the new XR. The (slightly) lighter weight, buzz elimination, brilliant TFT and electronics generally, boosted midrange torque, better fuel efficiency, better aerodynamics, taller top gearing, added storage/convenience features, etc. all appeal to me a lot.
I was (too) disappointed by the lack of shiftcam. This is clearly a cost/complexity-shaving move by BMW. The notion that you don’t ride it beyond 9k RPM is just untrue and begs the question of why instead include it in the in the far less sporty boxer R1250 engine.
I will be disappointed if the new XR loses any of its firmness and handling through the twisties. I want my sport-tourer to appeal to my sociopathic side. We’ll see with a full review in the dry.
I am doing a nine-day tour through the Pyrenees in mid-June and hope that it is available for rental then, but I fear that its April 25 launch may be too late for me.
I have a 2016 XR and I love it! I was looking at a great deal on a 2019 MS 1260. Sounds like I should wait? FYI, I did dry the 2020 XR, I like the lower end power band on the 2016 better. After 4,500 RPM, the 2020 absolutely smokes the 2016, but for the twisties, I like the 2016.
Outstanding review - nice focus on the practical, day-to-day characteristics of the new and previous model.
Thanks! John
I bought my 2018 BMW S1000XR September 2019 had a 2013 ZX10R before. Love my BMW
That was a Honest review. Keep up the good work mate!
Thanks! John
Great video John. I bought a 17 plate XR Sport SE after watching your reviews on the XR. I had also looked at a 19 plate Versys 1000, so I watched with eagerness.
Love the XR, a real " Do it all " bike. The only criticism, is the heavy clutch, especially compared to my last bike , a Z900RS. Think this will be a keeper.
A good, detailed, review 👍
Thanks Paul! John
Great channel! Great review! BMW, where is the hydraulic clutch?
that ending was brilliant 🤣
Nice review! 😁
Thanks! John
I had a 2016 XR and now a 2018 model. I have a 2020 on order. This review is giving me pause. I bought the first one because I like the sporty, edgy, nervous performance. If I wanted a Gold Wing, I'd have bought a Gold Wing. I like the TFT display and other changes, but I don't want something with the hard edges knocked off. You've given me some things to think about.
Now, a comment or two on the technical and informational quality of this review. It is simply brilliant. Just the info I want and need and have not found elsewhere, well voiced and well shot. I like that fourth wall clip. (I'm stealing it.). Also like the technique of using the visible notebook for prompting. Wouldn't have thought that works, either. I'm also stealing that.
Thanks! You make it sound like I knew what I was doing with those things, but it's the only way I'll remember what I want to talk about; I'm used to working in print, so I have no choice! And you should see the mistakes I have to edit out... Cheers, John
Have you experienced any issues withe 2016 model
Regarding vibration or any problems comparing to next models of XR?
Did you end up upgrading to the 2020? If so, did you notice the same changes? Thanks.
A very honest and informative review. Really enjoyed watching this vid. Great review thank you..
Thanks very much! I'll have the new model for a pillion opinion shortly... Cheers, John
Thanks for the honest review 👍
Great comparison, I have the old model and agree with others, I won’t be upgrading as not enough upgrades that really matter
Thanks for a terrific overview. I almost bought a 2018 S1000XR new as it’s the only bike to give me more fun than my Triumph Tiger 800, but was too pricey at the time. Now that it’s more affordable for me I’m definitely going to jump on the new bike this weekend. Worst case, the dealer has a 2019 S1000XR ex-demo model with all the bells and whistles for $23k AUD that I’d be very happy with as well.
Great review I like you will be hanging on to my 2019 XR I really do love it and it is my second XR 2016 being the first one. The thing is my luggage fits on the new one and the Nav and I got a povic HP end can for half price on ebay. I’m always a bit sceptical about new model launches and I would certainly not buy the new one without a test ride first.I am not sure about the look of the new one just yet. I’m sure the new one is better in some ways but can’t possibly be better at everything. Thanks again for your honest review 👍🏻
Hi Sir
Is there a big difference between 2016 xr and 2019 model?
As i got used 2016 xr offer for 10000$ and i am a bit hesitating about it
Would you advise me please?
Great videos, got an xr just like yours and wondered what tyres you have found the best for spirited road riding? Got oe pirelli diablo 2 on at moment, ok in the dry but the rear hasn’t lasted well mileage wise
I’ll keep my 2018. Love it.
Thanks for the informative review... I'll be keeping my 2017 Ocean Blue XR for a few more years... or until such a time that a newer, sportier than the 2020 XR comes along.
At last a proper honest (non manufacture!) review, would I swap well if its more for the touring side and softer then no not when coming from a sports R1 bike as still want the edge towards the grin factor when there's a need for a blast on back roads. kids at the end brilliant!
Nice review. Did this bike replace your MT10?
Thank you very much for this video, from Spain, I was evaluating the change of my s1000xr 2016 with 60,000 kms, it is great, no breakdown. But everything I love about this bike, is what you say the new model has lost, so I will keep mine. It is the best bike I have ever had and I have had many. Its rabid engine, its chassis and firm suspensions, its purely sporty character, I never want to lose that. Regards.
I think it didn't lost too much, not so significantly to abandon the update.
I would have stuck with the MT10 you had previously. I'm sure your better half prefers the back of the Beemer to the Yam. Choice between the new model and yours? I would stay with what you have. Interesting review.
Very good video, no wheelies, no rubber burning. Can watch.
Good review and comparison video.
Thanks! John
Good honest review makes me wonder if the second hand prices will come down a little on the older version S1000XR now that the new one is out, they do hold price very well mind there's lots out there with very low miles on them..
great info -thanks
awesome review. I prefer the look of the new xr's front end and the tft dash, and really appreciate knowing that the suspension settings have changed so drastically. Like you, I prefer the more sporty nature of the xr (traded a versys for it) so I'll give the new one a ride on a demo day, and will pay special attention to the suspension.
Missed the outro, but watched it after the comments - laughed out loud. Love how your video's always have a wonderfully human element, John. Keep up the great work!
Thanks, and please do let me know what you think of the new one! John
Your video, very instructive btw, makes me wonder if this suspention "issue" also aplies to the new s1000r, i have one 2018 S1000r and now i will MUST HAVE a test ride on the new 2021 or 2022 S1000r before change, becose i love the way this 2018 suspention sportiveness works, inspire lots of confidence in high lean angles, and i DONT want to loose that to have a more relaxed ride!
Great review! as you are an owner 👍 it’s true you didn’t get to thrash the new one which may have brought some surprises but it’s the sportier side of mine I love. You didn’t mention the new gear ratios? (I run a 43 tooth rear) And I too like the original dash but if the TFT was retro fit-able it’d be an interesting dilemma 😏
Hi John, great review! I was wondering where you bought the steel bar-ends? The ones guarding your handguards.
Never mind! Already found them in another question from someone else! 😂
Thorough comparison, thank you.
Thanks, John
Nice video again. This is my dream bike. Do you recommend it to who rode about 6000 km on 600cc 98hp naked bike?
If potential new customers want less sporty then they should be steered towards the GS. I moved from a GS to an XR because I wanted a sportier bike with a simular seating position.
I think i will be sticking with my 2017 XR. The tft and led lights are nice, but not enough to justify the trade up cost, plus when you factor the the cost of accessories and customisation.. i will wait for the next model update.
Besides given the Ducati and ktm offerings this should be 200 bhp bike by now.
Is it possible that 2020 XR can reach 180 to 200 bhp by ECU flashing...?
@@althafj No it has different cams in comparison to the RR and less compression
Totally agree, I traded my old man bike (GS) for the much sportier XR so I don’t want it to be watered down.
@@MitsCooKieHH ok... atleast 10 to 20 BHP
Gain..?
Althaf J No. The best you can do is about 185 hp using Brentuning stage 2
Just about the best review I’ve seen in a long time! Such great experience and insight compared with the old bike and the new. Maybe a little bit of pure sound and excitement for a full 10/10? But very good stuff 👍
Thanks! Sadly the footage we got from the launch didn't have any useful audio, and the onboard kit was too windy. Plus the rain of course! I included the clip of the bike here in the UK to give you an idea of the bike's sound. Its even more intoxicating when you're on it. John
I love the bike will be trading my 2019 GSA for the XR since i will not be doing any off road riding. Honey Im taping but your welcome to my channel!! You have to love it:)) Enjoy the bike thanks for your input.
Love your review
Thanks! John
@@bennettsbikesocial I tried 2 times the "old" - it was an amazing bike, sporty, comfy...I was very curious to have a review on the new one
Great review ! What's the name off the app u use ? Is it for Android and IOS ?
Another good and honest review👍 sometimes I think my XR needs another gear to cruise in and it is also very tall, I am on my tip toes, so if I was to change I may well look at the R1250RS. As always worth watching to the end. Kids eh 🤣🤣🙌🏍
Thanks! John
Thank you for this. Your review helped me decide to purchase the 2019 model instead of the latest version.
Nice! Cheers, John
The thing to note about this bike... it's underrated by BMW (at least up to 2019). They tend to dyno around 160whp (which means close to 180bhp). When I bought my Multistrada I rode the XR and it felt quite strong (my Multi dyno's around 140whp - so pretty close to the claimed 160). There were only 3 things that tipped me to the Multi - most important was the bar vibes, second was the better dealer support in my area, finally was the better luggage management (hate the scaffolding look when the bags are off, like the bike isn't quite finished yet and some tiny mechanics will be back any time to finish up the rear end). The 2020 may solve two of those things though some have reported there are still hand numbing vibes (I've not ridden to 20 so can't comment on that).
Yeah, Love this black beast you own. I would buy the old over the new. Better looking also to my eyes.
Just ridden the new xr1000 and loved it.
Brilliant video! Any idea when we can expect to see a review on UK roads?
ASAP, but that depends on what's happening at the mo! Cheers, John
I liked your review, thank you. I have a 2015 XR with 50 000 miles on and after hearing about the subtle "softening" I realised how happy I am. No need to change! The handle bars being narrower is something I would have asked for if I was consulted, along with the narrower seat to help my short legs reach the ground. I also run the Givi Panniers (V 35) so underseat space is not too much inconvenience when touring. With regards to the vibration, to be brutally honest i only noticed it after 2 years when I was riding with some friends and we had to slow the pace down, then it dawned on me what everyone was muttering about vibrations....truthfully 5-6 RPM is never where i travel so I was never affected.
Any problems with your bike in 50k miles
@@TrulyUniqueOne
Hi there. So yeah, I've had some issues. Most notably the exhaust headers crack, very close to the cylinder head. I've already repaired twice on the original before having a stainless header fabricated to replace. This one has done just over 10 K miles and already cracked once..... it may have something to do with the removal of the catalytic converter, and the baffle plates in the box before the catalytic converter.
The pins that secure the brake pads in the calipers tend to display abnormal wear in the life of a set of brake pads. Other than that it's been very good considering how hard I ride it
Nice review! I think it didn't lost too much, not so significantly to someone abandon the update.. its better in cruising speeds and still worth the money for a sporty bike like that. Regards.
Great comparison, thank you for a terrific and enjoyable video. Liked the ending too lol! I’m really torn between the new XR and a Multi 1260S. I’m coming off a Ninja 1000SX and want something that is much more comfortable with short and long trips. Any advice? Thanks again, ride safe👍
It's such a personal choice to be honest - both great bikes but the difference between the engine characters will probably swing it either way for you
What did you wind up with?
@@AzTurboMini hey, thanks for asking. A 1250GS Triple Black is on order for next year. After riding it, I knew it was the one! Too many good things about it, including a great service plan from BMW.
Had one, vibey bars were not noticeable to me. Had mine 3 years but chopped in for R9T. XR to easy to go silly speeds but a superb bike. Toured Spain two up and XR was a dream
All true! I can confirm it ! Great review!
Thanks! John
The only thing the old model needs is better lighting... enter a pair of Denali D7's and l now have the perfect bike. And it looks superb in Triple Black. I can't say l like the look of the new bike as much either. So l am more than happy with my 2019 XR. I came from a 2015 R1200GS adventure and it's as good as in terms of comfort but the GS has slightly better weather protection. I had to introduce my XR to some Wunderlich hand guard extenders too as those on the XR are not as efficient as the GS due to the various other wind deflectors on the GS. They work fine on the XR now. Now l can't fault the 'old' model bike.
I have been waiting for such great review comparing new to old XR. Great job. I hope someone will do another review on dry day as you had no chance to unleash the power. For me I don't think there is enough upgrades or significant changes to the bike to sell my 2015 fully customized XR and buy the new one. Sorry BMW but you didn't made it right for me and many others.
I commented earlier in this thread (currently own the 2017 XR now with 60 K Miles) and quite recently rode the 2022 model - WOW!. Although the test model was just run in 600 Miles, it was very tight, but a dramatically improved machine. Lower to the ground, appears to have shorter front forks (never affected the handling, even on our crummy road surfaces) and a noticeably smoother power delivery and powertrain. Riding this new model (2022) had me realizing just how hard I work on the 2017 to ride really fast, and just how effortless it was on the 2022.
The only downside - the price.
The TFT display worked well and everything else worked as I would expect.
Have you had many problems with you xr??
@@TrulyUniqueOne the only "issue" was the exhaust headers cracking (they are super thin) I'm now on 98 000km (just shy of 60 000 miles) and she pulls like a beast, doesn't burn oil. Love this machine
great outtake!
MORE THAN HAPPY WITH MY 2017 MODEL JOY TO RIDE
Hey great review. How is overall wind protection: face, torso, hands, lengs on the new vs old model?
I'd say pretty much the same, from what I could tell - the screen's aways been good, and the fairing does a great job, if not to the same level as a more touring-focussed bike. You can get more info here: www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/bikes/bmw/bmw-s1000xr-review-2020-price-spec
I had a 2016 and 2018 S1000XR and loved them but My new 2020 is far better overall than the old model and I ride 20000 miles a year
I have mine since 2015, had an RR before so love the sporty nature, done 42,000 miles to date, will ride the new one but don't want a softer bike, I went down 1 tooth on the front for better acceleration as you can hit the speed limiter in 5th and 6th.
Would love to hear what you think of the new one when you've test-ridden in. John
@@bennettsbikesocial will be happy to report back
I am booked to take out the new 2020 model next Saturday, be interested to see what I think of it, friend of mine was giving his back to the dealer and he gave me his Mivv can and HP seat, also put on the SW motec gear lever as mine bent falling over in a car park and it was cheaper than the BMW one.
full windshiled and a bracket for mirrors out front are a must.
I won’t change my 2019 hp for the new one! I came from a superduke gt 2019! That was so uncomfortable and aggressive... I sold it in 5 months and went for my s1000xr!
Good video and good explanations. I have only doubt because I do not have a good level of English compression, could you explain what you feeling in the new electronic suspension?
When you talk about the electronic suspension and its settings, you say that the new model has changed the range of hardness and comfort of the Road and Dynamic modes, but did I seem to understand that you feeling something soft in the Dynamic mode? So the Road mode will be even more soft that Dynamic?
When did you try the bike in Spain, did it rain every day? In that case I suppose that you could not test the bike well on dry tarmac and draw other conclusions, instead in other videos that I have seen, Italian press in particular say that the Dynamic mode is quite hard and that it is more recommended for tracks and roads with very good asphalt and those videos were filming with dry asphalt and good temperature, I suppose that's why you have different points of view.
It seems that in the XR the Dynamic ESA Pro is not the same as in the 1000 RR the Dynamic Damping Control that you can regulate the rebound and compression at different levels, in addition to that the DDC is really an active suspension like the Williams F1 of the season '92 -'93 instead the Dynamic ESA Pro only adjusts the travel and balance.
Thanks!!
Hi there... you can get more on the bike here: www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/bikes/bmw/bmw-s1000xr-review-2020-price-spec
Yes, it rained all the time we were out there, but dried up for other journalists. Dynamic mode will go firmer, and I found that was the only mode worth using - road mode just goes too soft now. I preferred having the choice of two modes, and if you buy the base model, you don't get the option of Dynamic mode, making it essential.
Hope that helps!
John
is there a kits to put the mirrors out front and ez to see like the Tmax ?
good points. i have choose the 2018 Hp instead of the 2020 new model. im 6 2" 190 Lb and the seat and driving position was not fit for me on the new version. once again subjective opinion cos a smaller user could enjoy it.
What a great review. Loved the side by side comparison, very detailed and honest
Have been loving my 2016 for many miles! I love the old one! I still get a buzzing in the bars, but have learned to love it.
Was considering an upgrade to new, but sounds like some pluses and minuses.
You saved me some $ as it doesn't sound like worth a first year changed model upgrade. Thanks!
It's worth a test-ride, no doubt - I'd just recommend trying it before laying your deposit down (though that's the same with any bike to be honest!). Cheers, John
I also have a 2019 XR. Yeah they have a very slight buzz but it's not at all bad. So l took a 2019 Triumph triple 1200 XRT demo for a test ride yesterday and that buzzed a bit. All bike engines vibrate to an extent in some way. Even my Land Rover Discovery V6 has a rumble. The XR is no different. And it inspires so much confidence in the dry and the wet too. It's a very very accomplished bike that does its job superbly well.
Buzzy bars isn't something to love. It's fatigue, hard on nerves, and dulls tactile control. It's a problem of engine balance, and manufacturers refuse to put counterbalance shafts in some motors because it's more inertia slowing rev quickness.
Nice review, thank you. The riding feedback is pretty much what this guy that moved from the previous model to the new one told us a week ago at Super Sausage Cafeteria :) . On a different note, have you got a review of your Denali lights? Cheers.
Cheers. Here's the Denali review: www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/motorcycle-accessories/denali-cansmart-review-ezcan-bmw-harley
Hi, I’m coming from my beloved 9 nine T. I need more comfort, but it has enough performance for me so I suppose the 900 looks perfect!..
The 900XR is a completely different bike to the 1000XR. You're watching the wrong video mate...
Excellent review, definitely needs a long test ride, or a 900xr perhaps?
Thanks! If I was buying now, the 900 would be very tempting. That 1000 power though is pretty intoxicating! John
I like your work 😉
Good day sir! what exactly is that reinforcement/protector behind your handguards?
They're Evotech Performance hand guard protectors - while unnecessary for me at least (I don't plan to go crashing through trees), they're heavier than even the bar-end weights, damping out the vibration through this model's bars. Cheers, John evotech-performance.com/collections/all/make-bmw-model-s-1000-type-xr-year-2019
Idk about others, but in 2000 miles, lowest I've gotten is 26 mpg stock tune stock headers solo no luggage, probably around 80 kg with gear on, not exceeding 100mph, and that on longer rides. Got a last year's model. Pretty fun but needs a remap.
I will be really interested to see it dynoed against the old bike and the RR to see what the shiftcam does as a comparison, if the new XR makes more lower down without it and more than the old bike, I came from an RR before I got the XR.
I have 2019 XR SE and find the bike well balanced and lovely to ride with instant power when you want it, the quick shift is great but still use the clutch when shifting down gear I just don't want to become placenta if one day I ever change 😁
Hey, I am planning to get one this week… 2016 are selling for $11k and 2020 is for $15k…. I had s1kRR for last 4 years… is it worth paying extra 4 grand for newer model ?
Personally, I preffered the first gen, but it has to be your choice as they ride a fair bit differently. I just traded it in though for a 1250 GS. Cheers, John
I rode both bikes and find the 2020 bike much more sportier in terms of riding position and handling. It looks like you tested the new bike in wet conditions which probably prevented you from going full on. I agree the new bike feels smoother all around, and I will most likely buy the 2020 bike, even the 2019 bikes are now on sale $3000 down on the 2020 bike.
Which one did you end up getting and how do you like it?
Thank you.
Thank you. I love my S1000XR because it is aggressive. I tried out the Ducati Multistrada the week before. When I got off the beemer I said, "I want to buy this." They then told me that I couldn't buy it because it was a floor model and did not have enough miles on it. Story of my life.
Hope you find one! John
Running an x Diavel and selling it to move to one of these, was going new but this review has thrown the cat amongst the pigeons.
Same here. I was planning to go from a s1000r to the new xr but having test rode the 2020 version, it's very much neutered and tamed version of the xr which is a shame
I am not a BMW bike lover but I love the sound of the motor. Will I trade my z1000sx in for one, nope. Still better value for money even after a ecu flash and slip-on. Sorry BMW.
Thanks
I always like watching your reviews John, they are real world reviews, with no BS, as a self proclaimed sports bike rider, I'm starting to feel my age (don't ask) and want something quick comfortable and capable of a few miles without needing a chiropractor afterwards, I have a couple of candidates S1000XR, R1200RS, and perhaps a GSXS1000-f, but I'm torn don't like the lights on the GSX-F, but I've pretty much been an inline four preference type of rider, having owned, some v-twins along the way and the VTR SP1 was epic, just not good for distance, what are your thoughts please.
Thanks very much! Hmm... that's a tricky one. Personally I like the upright form of the XR, but then again it is a bit unwieldy. Have a sit on them first, then get test rides if you can - we all love such different things. I do think you have to love every angle of a bike you buy, so you can't help but look back at it as you walk away. Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial Thank you for the reply John, much appreciated 👍
@@gixerloon Enjoy choosing! Cheers, John
Brilliant review!!! Excited to see another one on dry UK roads. I run the same Givi luggage and like the fact that it can be mounted so close to the bike to keep with the narrow lines for filtering. The exhaust on the new model looks like it sits a bit higher, wonder if the luggage will fit in the same way...
Great review. As an XR owner from new in 2015, I love my XR and am certainly considering a new one, but not until I have ridden the new one.
A very interesting and candid view from another XR owner; thanks. Totally credible.
Did you end up getting a new XR? Thank you.
@@EEEBA1 No. I have kept my original XR and also bought a '22 R1250GSA (I must be getting older!). 2 different beast but both brilliant in their own ways.
@@richardpriestley1419 Excellent. Ride safe my friend.
I just absolutely love how agressive and sporty my XR is. I would not want to lose any of that. In fact, I've been wanting to mod it to make it even more sporty.
Anyway, I will try the new one but like you, I probably will stick to my current steed.
Please do let us know how you find the new one on a test ride! John
@@bennettsbikesocial I've unfortunately had an incident on the XR and the frame where the kickstand mounts is apparently bent. Resulted in total loss. Devastation...
I had found myself at the dealer test driving the new XR.
It is exactly as you say, the new XR was under damped and had lost it's edge.
I've rarely used the road suspension setting on my XR because it was too soft but dynamic on the new one feels similar to it. It's way to bouncy. Doesn't inspire confidence under braking.
There were certainly high notes. The TFT is fantastic and the Sport page is phenomenal, would use that all the time.
I really did want to like it. But with how the old one rode fresh in mind, I could not buy it as a replacement.
In the end, I ended up going with a GS HP with Sport Suspension - off road here I come. Much Firmer than the new XR. I may revisit getting a GS in the future but I was overall disappointed with the new one.
@@vyjk Really sorry to hear about the accident - hope you're okay! John
Had mine since 2015, remapped with a full system on. Toured on it, love it & can’t see any reason to swap it out for the 2020 model. Plus I much prefer the look of the older bikes asymmetric head lights. Great review.
Thanks! John
I had same feeling when testing the new 2020. Less aggressive, less punch with the engine's response and softer... I wanted to buy new one but know, not sure. Thinking in the mentioned super duke gt as an option. What do you think compared to 2017 s1000xr?
The Super Duke GT is great (funnily enough, that launch was soaking wet too). I like the load capacity of the XR for full luggage though, and they are quite different bikes really; you're going to have to give that KTM a go! Cheers, John
The thing between this two generations of the bike is that the enhancement has been operated on several aspects, but mainly important it is that the bike has more mid range on the 2020 model than the one before and that change made the bike more accessible to the average rider. The bike is now more appealing to the GS rider that wants a little more pepper on the ride and uses the bike on tarmac roads for the most of the occasions he goes out with it, and being sincere, there are a lot of GS riders that never take it on difficult off road trails to justify having a GS. So, in this sense the actual XR is that bike in the middle that was lacking in the BMW motorcycle range.
Love the honest, straightforward review based on truly understanding the soul of the 2016-2019 version. Might change my mind, I'll look for a steal on a 2019 bike at local dealers for sure.
Excellent review! Comparison with a previous model is always useful and this video delivers the straight goods. I am reassured that BMW won’t tempt me away from my 1290 GT.