I had a 1982 GS - greatest bike ever. In 1985 took it on a 7000 mile journey from LA to Alaska, Yukon and Canadian Northwest Territories, doing a little over 5000 of these miles on gravel or worse (tundra is a lot of fun...). It’s performance was insane. Never blew a tire, got through sand rocks, tundra, insane rain and even some ice, not to mention the rough roads, timber tracks and the lot. Driving the Dempster Highway north out of Whitehorse Yukon, sharing the road with nothing but Caribou and huge 18wheelers - forcing you totally off the “road” when one came at you, showed time and again what an amazing piece of machinery this was. On my return to Yukon (450 miles each way, one fuel station) I pulled into a popular bar. Guy saw me pull up totally covered in mud & dust and asked how many flat tires I had had. When I said none, he called me a liar; but still brought me inside, introduced me to friends, bought a much needed beer, and everyone came out to check the amazing bike that no one had ever heard of. So many stories of this bike, I am in tears remembering it. An interesting postscript occurred about 10 years ago. I was sitting at a dinner table with customers (I run a top tour agency specialising in motogp, Isle of Man and other motorcycle events) and the question came up for each person to name what they thought was the most influential motorcycle of all time. When it came to me, I said the BMW R80 G/S and the whole table burst out in laughter. “When has BMW ever produced anything noteworthy?”. Only just the biggest selling model and style copied by all major manufacturers today... I still own a BMW - it is a 1982 R80. (Sadly sold the GS when I moved from California to Europe ) and yes, it too lived up to the poster on the wall of Brown Motor Works in Pomona California where I bought it: “If you want to be happy for a day, get drunk. If you want to be happy for a year, get married. If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, buy a BMW.” Many drunks, two wives and one motorcycle later I am now 60. And as soon as this bloody pandemic ends, I am back on the road! (And maybe off it with another g/s!) Thanks so much for this video!
I'm subscribed to a lot of automotive/motorcycle channels but you guys are the only one that consistently put a smile on my face with how much fun y'all are having! Keep up the great work!
I have my original BMW R80GS 1983 model still today,rode 2 times around most of Europe. London to Perth (AUS) up to Broom ,down to the bottom of WA to Albany up across the Nullarbore to Adelaide, up to Alice,back to Adelaide then across to Melbourne and finally hm to Brisbane.My bike was named Warthog by my late cuz Rolando, it has never missed a beat.We have been up to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation and back to Brisbane. Roll rode a ktm 990 I rode the BMW,it still perrs along at 110-125 k,s. It still pisses on most other bikes, and is over 30 years old. I would love to buy the the new 2016-7. Keep up the good wk BMW
I have a 1981 R80 G/S and it is my preferred bike for long distance, IE 1.500 mile including 500 Mike days. AND it is the ultimate Get You Home machine.
Just stumbled on this cool vid. Gave up Harleys a few years back and have a 17' GS adventure that I love and am confident that it is the best all around motorcycle on the planet. Hands down. Harley doesn't even exist to me anymore.
I got rescued in the middle of Wales UK with a blown gasket (Honda 1979 XL250s) and my jeans saturated in engine oil. Two BMWs pulled up, led us to forest house (slowly). Stayed two nights. Guy replaced gasket. Caught ferry to Ireland. Toured. Smiles all round! Recently bought a BMW R80 G/S 1981, near pristine condition, first registered on my birthday (I was 19) and an Honda XL 500s (same old gasket sh**) but a lovely bike too.
How the hell does this channel not have far more subs. Other magazines and bike media sources don't even have half the production and entertainment value of this channel. I don't really have any interest in ADV bikes but happily watched this from start to finish.
Hi, I bought the original R 80 GS from Janet Maddock of Maddock Motorcycles (Ireland) back in 1981. At that time I owned the Honda CB 750 and the Yamaha DT 175. I traded them both in for the R80. Best move I ever made. I felt that there was no better set-up for dealing with our potholed riddled country roads. I now own the original GS Adventure and have done so for 12 years. I do not have the ridding skills to take it off-road but I have now spent over forty five years biking and I would never change from the GS models.
Awesome guys!!! I'm fortunate enough to own a 1983 R80 GS. I'ts got a few battle scars but boy does it stil bring joy!! So lovely to tear up some South African dirt whenever I have a bit of time. Thanks for a graet video
I have an R/100/GS, It has 133,000 miles on it now, and it's still my favorite BMW. It's unmatched for comfort, it's large and roomy, 60 hp is enough to get you anywhere you want to go. It handles on the twistys wonderfully. I have three other BMW motorcycles, a K1200LT, A K1200RS, and an R1100R, none of them can touch it in the handling dept. It's weird, you'd think that tall bike would be awkward, but it handles like a dream.
I am on board my 12th BMW and my 4th GS. A 2014 R1200GS LC. I love the versatility and the comfort as leaning forward onto my wrists is not at all comfortable any more at 62 yrs of age. Unfortunately I don't get off road much but doing a 2 day BMW ADV rider course gave me a lot more confidence on what my bike will do. I love my GS
I have to agree with some of the earlier comments. I really look forward to your new material and thoroughly enjoy what you guys do. I always have a smile on my face when watching.... Keep up the good work.
I swear you guys are the best moto source around. The daily commutes, on 2 wheels, and Ari's tech how this and that works stuff are just the complete package.
There is a reason why a lot of the comments all say the same thing. "You guys are the best motorcycle journalist around". It's because it's true! Keep up the great work guys!
I am one of those Starbucks Sunday riders through the 2 lane VA backroads. Absolutely amazing how this beast handles and how comfortable it is. Besides, It is always fun to see the reactions of the Harley riders - they think they got big ones until they see this one ;) Great Video!!!
I will say, as an owner of a sport bike and a dirt bike, I used to bash on the ADV's before. Over the past few months i have been watching all of your videos and surprisingly I have gained an appreciation for ADV's. Though it's not in the budget right now, eventually I would love to buy one. They are very versatile bikes that can quite a bit. Of course my CBR will tear up a canyon better and of course my CRF will rip up the dirt better, but the thing is ADV's can go off and explore both, still have fun, and seem much more comfortable over long hours in the saddle. Thumbs up.
Great story here. I have been riding the original oilhead R1100 GS since 1995 and plan on keeping that bike for life, it's got everything you need and nothing you don't. I am now 62 and it's a good thing I lift weights because you need it for ground handling with this beast, it's tall and it's top heavy but it is so very nimble once you get rolling. The suspension is wonderfully stable (with Ohlins upgrades) and the engine braking is tremendous, two things that are lacking in the R1200 although that bike is much more refined and smooth feeling. I recently relocated to southern Arizona and this bike is in it's ideal element on the many graded dirt and gravel roads throughout the area.
Owing a new friend some money, I offered to pay her back with motorcycle lessons; I was honestly surprised when she accepted. After we both passed the course with flying colors, each of us ended up with a used BMW around the same price. She got an R1200R, and I got a F650GS. Though I could never really keep up with her off the line nor on the highway, whenever we so happen to ride off road I always felt in comfortably in control with the GS. Once, on a slightly rocky descent, she ended up asking me to maneuver her bike down after easily getting mine to the bottom, and walking back up. Though I was able to manage her bike down, it certainly displayed how ill equipped it was for the trek. I love that damn 650. I can't wait to get my 1200GS in the near future... same with my friend who now owns a 800GS LOL Great vid! Thanks for talking Adventure bikes :)
Wow, guys .... you did a great, an awesome job with that video ... double thumbs up brothers. Personally I own a 1982 R80G/S which was owned through all the years by a pretty well known German oldschool Playboy what makes this bike even more special to me, and you won’t believe, I already had an offer of 20 Grands in € for it. But I am not selling it. Way too many memories plus I am not the type of guy selling that sort of stuff in general, what became a special part of my life. I still use the bike and I must say, that it does it’s job perfectly and you are still holding a bike cuz of which people stop by just to watch it, talking with you, even on motorbike hotspots where all the greatest bike get together, so I can say that this bike never lost it’s Charme neither the interest of the crowd. Looking back to the 80ies when it was released, I was one of those who really disliked the bike. Maybe it was mainly because I couldn’t afford it and of course the weight was what underpinned my aversion. In Germany that Modell had a nickname pretty much founded way back in the 50ies called “Gummikuh” which means rubber cow. The founder of that nickname was Ernst Leverkus, who based that on his experience during a test drive due to to lifting of the rear suspension, caused by the cardan shaft drive in connection with the rear swing arm. He compared that to cows, because cows normally stand up with their rear part first. Technically this was called the “elevator-effect”. At present I am having the idea of purchasing an R 1150 G/S of a friend. Let’s see how that ends, but then I could enjoy the fun of both bikes. Thanks again for your outstanding great video probably I will make a video of my 1982 Modell and release it on my channel. If this comes true, I will let you know. Best Regards Dee from Germany
Rode an R100GSPD for near 4 years. Criss-crossed the USA more times than I can remember. Closing in on a 100k miles. Wadded it up on an obscure county road in east Missouri. Tank slapper and an unceremonious get-off. On and on, anon
Great Summation on the GS. I currently own a used 1991 R100GS bought in 1993 and did 2 LA to Barstow runs on it. In 2015 I traded in a 2008 K1200GT w 150hp and a 2007 KTM 525EXC for a dealer demo 2014 R1200GSAW w 125hp. I have been waiting for this bike for over 20 years. There both great bikes at what they do. The R1200GSAW is a HEAVEY bike to lift up in thick dirt and deep sand. Happy Trails Boys & Girls Rubber side down works much better.
I still have that issue of Motorcyclist magazine. My own GS was a '93 R100GS. It was my dream bike. It was also the biggest let down of my 37 years (and counting) riding career. The chrome started peeling on one of the headers within weeks. The speedometer packed it in at 15000km. And then the biggie: those air-cooled 100GSs had a major design flaw that few people ever discuss: when BMW fitted them with long-travel suspension, the driveshaft ended-up exiting the gearbox at an angle that constantly put stress on the gearbox output bearing. Mine let go at 50000km with the bike out of warranty. The bearing seized, the gearbox output shaft sheared. Result: one destroyed BMW gearbox. One very expensive repair bill, later I was happy to sell it on, never to buy another Beemer.
God damn it this dudes are having the time of their life! And they ride so well, and are such good riders, they make it look like they are on bicycles. All the best!
I can't press like enough times to express how I feel about this video. Good work guys, you are truly the Top Gear of motorcycles. I hope someone comes along and increases your budget.
I hauled all my clothing etc and a bicycle on a custom bike rack with my 1200GS from PA to GA then rode thru Deals Gap on my way back to PA. The GS out of 30 bikes Ive owned now, was absolutely amazing. People always ponder what bike they’d have if they could only pick one.. well that’s the GS for me.
Such a really good test... As always guys! I think that this is one of my favorites episodes, with enough technical data and good humor sense! regards from Mexico!
At 13, learned to ride offroad on a 1980 R65 BMW I'd sneak out of dad's garage to play in the sand along the Rio Grande. Watched the Dakar rally a few years later and bought my first bike in 2003.. The R1150GS ADV. It was a year used and had some scratches, but also had touratech panniers already on. Loved it dearly and still have it today, after some great trips, been using it as a utility on a farm and occasional rides to town. I have 1991 and a 2005 regular GS as well, but nothing brings me joy like that 02 ADV. I think the segment was most boosted by the 2004 Ewan McGregor Long Way Round, since no one I met recognized the option before that show was released. Then other manufacturers were jumping in (KTM got the recognition as deserved, but wow they missed the boat turning those guys down).
I only have an 93 ex500 at this time, however the fact that the only gripes about adv bikes are the limitations they have, I feel like my enjoyment of this bike would not be hindered by said limitations as I am not going to be so skilled that those limitations would ever really be an issue. Thank you for making this video.
I hauled a bicycle on a custom bike rack and all my stuff required for a month to Georgia from PA on a GS. Rode back and took a detour to Deal’s Gap. Dumped everything off in my room and rode the dragon for two days. Loaded back up and rode home to PA. Best damn motorcycle in the world.
A few years ago my brother and I did a 10k mile trip from Vancouver Island to Alaska. I was on an '89 GS and he was on an '05 GS. It was a fantastic trip. One notable difference was he got better gas mileage but I had greater range.
Will soon be on my fourth GS - it started close to 40yrs ago with an R80G/S, #2 was the R1150GS, #3 the Wethead version and now, #4 is back to a1981 Vintage R80G/S MOA-Foundation raffle prize fully restored by Dutch Lammers and I'll receive it in a few weeks at the 2023 50th BMW MOA National Rally June 8-10, 2023 - Excited as hell!
Great video. Just took my 2013 GS from Thousand Oaks to/through Imperial valley. Camped and hit several trails around Mt Laguna. I love that I can pull a 400 mile day on the road, ride moderately difficult jeep trails with my gear, then hop back on the pavement and set the cruise to 90 mph for the ride home. Now if only some could make my knobbies last a little longer......
I have to say that your videos have gotten so darn good! Theyre funny, packed with insightful commentary and really well shot, the whole package! Thanks for this one, always looking out for more great content.
When I picked up my 1200 GS adventure the sales manager at the BMW dealer told me it was not a bike for off road. I couldn't believe it. He said dirt roads yes, actual off road and rough trails no. I've had it in some rough country but I see his point. I love my bike in most situations though.
I must say, i love this channel, and i even don't own a bike ! Well, i owned a Vespa, then a Yamaha DT LC 125 ypvs, then a Yamaha TDR 250 ypvs...since 1989 to 1998. Now, with 44 ya, my goal is the BMW R Nine T, and this channel is so usefull, there are lot's of things about motorcycles i forgot ! Thank you for your expertise and objective way of putting things. Cheers from Portugal.
Superb video thanks for that! I hankered after an R80 back in the 80s. After test driving all the current ADV bikes available I eventually bought a Honda Crosstourer. A heavy bike and it doesnt have all the high tech frills and fandgoes but ...... the V4 engine knocks the boxer engine into the weeds and the Honda fit and finish is absolutely second to none.
@@davidfalgout7304 ... Not at all. I also have a KTM 690 ENDURO R which is possibly the most fun bike to ride that there is out there just now. Being a bit of a luddite I'm not a huge fan of all the tech on the new "ADV" motorcycles. However the 690 has all the tech ABS. TRACTION CONTROL, LEAN ANGLE ABS etc etc but keeps it in the background until it is required.
@@jamesdownie2152 I read what you said. But if you don't mind let me opine as to what you meant. That is: >> "your choice of bike is better and the BMW is not as good as your choice". Certainly we are all entitled to our own opinion.etc. But this video is about how the "Adventure movement" was very much moved into prominence thanks to the BMW GS. I know one thing for sure, when the GS won those Paris- Dakar races, any of your choices would have been left in the dust! I have ridden and owned the KTM's, the KLR, etc and also the BMW GS over the years. I can tell you for sure that the GS has a quality that NO ONE understands until they try it ( for more than a month...lol) . I do not understand why you had to put forth that your choice of those bike's are better in some way, than what BMW has done. I do agree that when BMW started the water cooling movement, and now the shift cam... makes them less favorable for off road than the previous air/oil cooled models. But those 1250 are sure incredible to ride. They are however a handful off-road. There is a lady rider, I can not remember her name... and I have no doubt that she can ride a 1250GS off road better than 98% of us mere mortals.She would leave you and me for dead in an off-road adventures!
I recently purchased an R80ST. This a GS with an R65 front end and a 19" front wheel. The rear shock had less travel and no bash plate but otherwise..... it's a GS. BMW wanted to make a more streetable version. I have to say.... this ST handles amazingly at that's compared to today's standard. If it had a bit more power it would be the ultimate motorcycle in my eyes. I have an R1100S and I enjoy the ST so much more.
I just got my first ADV bike a few weeks ago, a 2013 BMW1200 GSA 90th anniversary edition, and so far have only commuted to work on it, I cant wait for my first adventure, I think eventually I want to do the trans american trail on it! So far I love it! Great bike, I come from primarily sportbikes, and then SuperMoto, and now ADV, this is one great bike and I hope I can find some epic adventures soon!
As a pretty new motorcycle rider I wanted something that could be almost universal. Ended up getting a DL650 as a first bike and must say the adventure bike category is absolutely a must for any motorcycle stable.
Great vid. It is because of people like you, and videos like that that I made the change to the 1200GS and attend events like MMM. This bike and this style is great at everything it does. The perfect daily rider on top of that. Thanks!
Had one. Lot's of fun and adventure. I wasn't much good off road, but it would go where ever I pointed it. Just for fun, ride with the single Krauser bag with a watermelon in it. Interesting balance! Best small mods: Shoei FM-2 mini fairing and San Jose BMW upper triple clamp. Weirdest thing: going through a big dip with a passenger on board and feeling the monolever twist/untwist and rock the bike side to side.
Nice video...entertaining and informative. My first adv was a 1990 honda transalpfollowed by 3 yam tdm 850 on which I rode 100,000 mes each, then the triumph 955i tiger, now I'm going back to future by converting my BMW R100RT to gs spec! Wish me luck...keep up the great work
What a cool episode. I have had dirt bikes and street bikes but this was the first time I could actually see something in the middle as fun and challenging (in a positive way). There's no doubt that BMW makes a solid bike. I might just have to go sit on one or bum a ride off somebody to see if it clicks with me in real life. Thanks for this episode. I love it when I watch, read or hear something that tweaks my worldview a bit. Cheers...
New Rider here and got a f650gs as my first bike & i love it! can't wait to better myself until i can ride on of the 1200 gs babes! & you guys are great!
I'm a new rider, in fact I'm in the process of getting my license. I have given much thought to what kind of rider I want to be, what kind of bike I want. The challenge of combining something I can commute to and from work, something I can go on long hauls across Norway or even Europe, and something that will thrill me, but not kill me (referring to R bikes, which I am never riding again due to my over-aggressive adrenal glands), I am pretty much convinced I need a GS. Or at least a road-capable ADV. I also love your garage series, big props from a new fan from Northern Norway (please bring an adventure here, I'll brew the beer.)
Haha, the GS is a bit on the heavy side, I agree. Currently debating im looking at a 95 R1100GS or a 95 Honda Africa Twin 750. The Honda is a bit more my style, and it's fairly bulletproof. Keep up the good show!
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. This quote: “They didn’t get it...they didn’t understand that by compromising a little bit in the dirt and a little bit on the pavement they were gaining so much in terms of versatility in one bike that can do so much.” And: “People complain about the cost of the bike, the weight of the bike...but that’s pretty much where the list ends.” Awesome.
I have an '88 R100GS Bumblebeemer, and even when I bought it and was a young guy, there was NO way I was able to ride it in the dirt like that. Very impressive!
I really love to ride my R80 GS as well as the R9T and the KTM 790 Adv. All of them are superb Bikes with own Character. I wish everyone adventurous and accident-free journeys.
I was smiling the whole time, felt like I was on the GS. I have an f650 funduro 1996 but oh man I can not wait to get my hands on a 2018/9ish gs850. One day!
Bought My PD "Classic" new in '95 from BMW NY (gone). Couldn't resist. Black and BMW, 2 B's for Me. Still MINE. My first bike was a '68 R60 (CA and Back, 19 years old). My GS is my fave forever (and I've owned and/or raced Triumph's, Norton's, Ducati's, Honda's and Kawasaki's). Now I'm almost 67 years old. Take it fast on road and off. Too Big ? Hahaha...I AM BIG ! ...I take my wife. We Likey Lots. Hope to ride it another 20 years. Nice Video, Youngsters. Fun and ALL TRUE !
When I first saw the factory bikes BMW brought to the 1973 ISDT I knew I just HAD to have a BMW dirt bike. Given that none were available back then, I found a very nice R90/6 to which I mounted Conti Trials tires and off I went. I finally bought a G/SPD in 1986, I am currently refurbishing is after 90k miles of "dual sport" riding (what it was called before it was called Adventure riding...) and it will complement my 1997 1150GS and my 2007 G650 Xchallenge. I sold my HP2 enduro before I killed myself on it. These are the best motorcycles in the world!
The first time I remember seeing a BMW adv bike was fall of 1988. I was driving a truck from Kathmandu Nepal into India and met a bike on the road. I remember thinking that would be a great way to travel out there in south asia. Cheers!!
I have both 1982 GS and 2008 R1200 GS,I've had the R80 for 37 years, still fun to ride, feels like a mini bike compared to the R1200.I remember one ride trying to keep up with a couple of mates on Yamaha IT 175s,that was hard work, be even harder on the R1200.
Great words in the end. It realy rapped it all. The GS was and is a great bike. I'm not a great fan of the last GS. It is to much Star Wars.... my dream GS is the 2006-13 (K255) model. It is the perfect mix of the old R80GS and modern bikes.
Question: Would you say that it's really the sub-1000cc mid-weight ADV bikes that are truly the closest to the R80 legacy? (closer in weight and power) OR do you really think the GSA feel even with it's size difference and abundance of driver aids can still capture that R80 feel? (I guess that's how I feel... the GSA is just so damned... BIG). Comment: I rented a GS for a long weekend adventure in Germany (and Lux, Bel, Fra) earlier this year. It is a TRULY enjoyable bike to tour... even though I was on dirt for maybe 20 miles out of 1500 (virtually all the miles were rural though... maybe 50 autobahn). This is coming from someone who specifically opted for the Multistrada over the GSA because I knew I'd not be riding dirt more than 5-10%. The GS is not really a corner carver, but when you're looking at a $2000 damage deductible... it's a much better option knowing you need to "behave yourself" than renting a Multi, XR, or other on-road performance oriented ADV bike.
See this is what motorcycling is all about. Unsophisticated fun. Track or offroad, B-road or supermoto, it doesn't matter. Riding is aaaaaaalllllllllllll about FUN!
I had a 1982 GS - greatest bike ever. In 1985 took it on a 7000 mile journey from LA to Alaska, Yukon and Canadian Northwest Territories, doing a little over 5000 of these miles on gravel or worse (tundra is a lot of fun...). It’s performance was insane. Never blew a tire, got through sand rocks, tundra, insane rain and even some ice, not to mention the rough roads, timber tracks and the lot. Driving the Dempster Highway north out of Whitehorse Yukon, sharing the road with nothing but Caribou and huge 18wheelers - forcing you totally off the “road” when one came at you, showed time and again what an amazing piece of machinery this was. On my return to Yukon (450 miles each way, one fuel station) I pulled into a popular bar. Guy saw me pull up totally covered in mud & dust and asked how many flat tires I had had. When I said none, he called me a liar; but still brought me inside, introduced me to friends, bought a much needed beer, and everyone came out to check the amazing bike that no one had ever heard of. So many stories of this bike, I am in tears remembering it.
An interesting postscript occurred about 10 years ago. I was sitting at a dinner table with customers (I run a top tour agency specialising in motogp, Isle of Man and other motorcycle events) and the question came up for each person to name what they thought was the most influential motorcycle of all time. When it came to me, I said the BMW R80 G/S and the whole table burst out in laughter. “When has BMW ever produced anything noteworthy?”. Only just the biggest selling model and style copied by all major manufacturers today...
I still own a BMW - it is a 1982 R80. (Sadly sold the GS when I moved from California to Europe ) and yes, it too lived up to the poster on the wall of Brown Motor Works in Pomona California where I bought it:
“If you want to be happy for a day, get drunk. If you want to be happy for a year, get married. If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, buy a BMW.”
Many drunks, two wives and one motorcycle later I am now 60. And as soon as this bloody pandemic ends, I am back on the road! (And maybe off it with another g/s!)
Thanks so much for this video!
I rode a 80 g/s from Nepal to Scotland and loved it enough to give it a name :) great video
Sounds like an epic adventure. Did you make a video?
@@shoakman Well more than 60% of people who have conquered most kilometres of adventure touring don't record their tour
What was the name?
@@jbrucksnc Bertie the Beemer :)
@@prafulltiwari216 @shoakman I do need to check comments :) No video, was in 2000 so long before people did that.
Holy cow. Zack knows how to handle that beast. Damn Ari.... He's totally one upped you in this episode.
I'm subscribed to a lot of automotive/motorcycle channels but you guys are the only one that consistently put a smile on my face with how much fun y'all are having! Keep up the great work!
I have my original BMW R80GS 1983 model still today,rode 2 times around most of Europe. London to Perth (AUS) up to Broom ,down to the bottom of WA to Albany up across the Nullarbore to Adelaide, up to Alice,back to Adelaide then across to Melbourne and finally hm to Brisbane.My bike was named Warthog by my late cuz Rolando, it has never missed a beat.We have been up to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation and back to Brisbane. Roll rode a ktm 990 I rode the BMW,it still perrs along at 110-125 k,s. It still pisses on most other bikes, and is over 30 years old. I would love to buy the the new 2016-7.
Keep up the good wk BMW
Awesome
Recently bought a BMW R80 G/S 1981, near pristine condition, first registered on my birthday (I was 19).
I have a 1981 R80 G/S and it is my preferred bike for long distance, IE 1.500 mile including 500 Mike days. AND it is the ultimate Get You Home machine.
More I watch you guys, the more I like your videos. You guys are like the Motorcycle show of the original Top Gear.
Just stumbled on this cool vid. Gave up Harleys a few years back and have a 17' GS adventure that I love and am confident that it is the best all around motorcycle on the planet. Hands down. Harley doesn't even exist to me anymore.
Smart Man! Well done!
Guy riding GS stopped to help me once when my clutch cable broke on my KTM... Nice guy
I think this is the best part of the whole thing. Apart from the video, we should applaud the dude.
I got rescued in the middle of Wales UK with a blown gasket (Honda 1979 XL250s) and my jeans saturated in engine oil. Two BMWs pulled up, led us to forest house (slowly). Stayed two nights. Guy replaced gasket. Caught ferry to Ireland. Toured. Smiles all round!
Recently bought a BMW R80 G/S 1981, near pristine condition, first registered on my birthday (I was 19) and an Honda XL 500s (same old gasket sh**) but a lovely bike too.
Well done dudes! Loved this GS recap! As a new f800gs owner, definitely excited to see where it will take me. Love the show!
Du kommst überall hin 😊 fahre die F800gs seit 55000 km alles top keine Ausfälle 👍
How the hell does this channel not have far more subs. Other magazines and bike media sources don't even have half the production and entertainment value of this channel. I don't really have any interest in ADV bikes but happily watched this from start to finish.
Hands down, the best two moto-journalists on TH-cam. Love your content fellas, keep it coming!
Love the GS, it might be big and expensive but there is something satisfying about taking something so nice and comfy offroad
hi Tom !
I KNEW to find you here :D
You should buy one Tom 😜
The front headlight also looks like a penis
Hi,
I bought the original R 80 GS from Janet Maddock of Maddock Motorcycles (Ireland) back in 1981. At that time I owned the Honda CB 750 and the Yamaha DT 175. I traded them both in for the R80. Best move I ever made. I felt that there was no better set-up for dealing with our potholed riddled country roads. I now own the original GS Adventure and have done so for 12 years. I do not have the ridding skills to take it off-road but I have now spent over forty five years biking and I would never change from the GS models.
Smart Man!
Awesome guys!!!
I'm fortunate enough to own a 1983 R80 GS.
I'ts got a few battle scars but boy does it stil bring joy!!
So lovely to tear up some South African dirt whenever I have a bit of time.
Thanks for a graet video
I have an R/100/GS, It has 133,000 miles on it now, and it's still my favorite BMW. It's unmatched for comfort, it's large and roomy, 60 hp is enough to get you anywhere you want to go. It handles on the twistys wonderfully. I have three other BMW motorcycles, a K1200LT, A K1200RS, and an R1100R, none of them can touch it in the handling dept. It's weird, you'd think that tall bike would be awkward, but it handles like a dream.
Man, BMW R series was love at first sight. I bought my R90/6 three years a go and I never stop riding it. It is so reliable and never let me down. 🏍💨💨
Wow ! R90/6 very old . If you find easy the changing parts , then no problem !
I am on board my 12th BMW and my 4th GS. A 2014 R1200GS LC. I love the versatility and the comfort as leaning forward onto my wrists is not at all comfortable any more at 62 yrs of age. Unfortunately I don't get off road much but doing a 2 day BMW ADV rider course gave me a lot more confidence on what my bike will do. I love my GS
I have to agree with some of the earlier comments. I really look forward to your new material and thoroughly enjoy what you guys do. I always have a smile on my face when watching.... Keep up the good work.
I swear you guys are the best moto source around. The daily commutes, on 2 wheels, and Ari's tech how this and that works stuff are just the complete package.
There is a reason why a lot of the comments all say the same thing. "You guys are the best motorcycle journalist around". It's because it's true!
Keep up the great work guys!
I am one of those Starbucks Sunday riders through the 2 lane VA backroads. Absolutely amazing how this beast handles and how comfortable it is. Besides, It is always fun to see the reactions of the Harley riders - they think they got big ones until they see this one ;) Great Video!!!
2:55 . Real close guys. Real close
I wonder if they got that on the first take haha
BrennMan
I too wondered about that.
+BrennMan prolly. i've seen these guys ride in person many many mannnny miles. they both got the skillz!
I thought the same thing. Impressive!
+seppes I've also seen their outtakes many times lol They do have the skillz but no one is perfect :P
I can't get enough of these two boys! Been binge watching them all night! Don't have a bike but I sure feel like I've been riding all day. Bravo boys!
I will say, as an owner of a sport bike and a dirt bike, I used to bash on the ADV's before. Over the past few months i have been watching all of your videos and surprisingly I have gained an appreciation for ADV's. Though it's not in the budget right now, eventually I would love to buy one. They are very versatile bikes that can quite a bit. Of course my CBR will tear up a canyon better and of course my CRF will rip up the dirt better, but the thing is ADV's can go off and explore both, still have fun, and seem much more comfortable over long hours in the saddle. Thumbs up.
Great story here. I have been riding the original oilhead R1100 GS since 1995 and plan on keeping that bike for life, it's got everything you need and nothing you don't. I am now 62 and it's a good thing I lift weights because you need it for ground handling with this beast, it's tall and it's top heavy but it is so very nimble once you get rolling. The suspension is wonderfully stable (with Ohlins upgrades) and the engine braking is tremendous, two things that are lacking in the R1200 although that bike is much more refined and smooth feeling. I recently relocated to southern Arizona and this bike is in it's ideal element on the many graded dirt and gravel roads throughout the area.
Owing a new friend some money, I offered to pay her back with motorcycle lessons; I was honestly surprised when she accepted. After we both passed the course with flying colors, each of us ended up with a used BMW around the same price. She got an R1200R, and I got a F650GS. Though I could never really keep up with her off the line nor on the highway, whenever we so happen to ride off road I always felt in comfortably in control with the GS.
Once, on a slightly rocky descent, she ended up asking me to maneuver her bike down after easily getting mine to the bottom, and walking back up. Though I was able to manage her bike down, it certainly displayed how ill equipped it was for the trek. I love that damn 650.
I can't wait to get my 1200GS in the near future... same with my friend who now owns a 800GS LOL
Great vid! Thanks for talking Adventure bikes :)
I had a street R80 for five years.. what a great, stable, light, just enough power, comfortable seat and stance, reliable bike
Wow, guys .... you did a great, an awesome job with that video ... double thumbs up brothers.
Personally I own a 1982 R80G/S which was owned through all the years by a pretty well known German oldschool Playboy what makes this bike even more special to me, and you won’t believe, I already had an offer of 20 Grands in € for it. But I am not selling it. Way too many memories plus I am not the type of guy selling that sort of stuff in general, what became a special part of my life.
I still use the bike and I must say, that it does it’s job perfectly and you are still holding a bike cuz of which people stop by just to watch it, talking with you, even on motorbike hotspots where all the greatest bike get together, so I can say that this bike never lost it’s Charme neither the interest of the crowd.
Looking back to the 80ies when it was released, I was one of those who really disliked the bike. Maybe it was mainly because I couldn’t afford it and of course the weight was what underpinned my aversion.
In Germany that Modell had a nickname pretty much founded way back in the 50ies called “Gummikuh” which means rubber cow.
The founder of that nickname was Ernst Leverkus, who based that on his experience during a test drive due to to lifting of the rear suspension, caused by the cardan shaft drive in connection with the rear swing arm. He compared that to cows, because cows normally stand up with their rear part first. Technically this was called the “elevator-effect”.
At present I am having the idea of purchasing an R 1150 G/S of a friend. Let’s see how that ends, but then I could enjoy the fun of both bikes.
Thanks again for your outstanding great video probably I will make a video of my 1982 Modell and release it on my channel. If this comes true, I will let you know.
Best Regards
Dee from Germany
Rode an R100GSPD for near 4 years. Criss-crossed the USA more times than I can remember. Closing in on a 100k miles. Wadded it up on an obscure county road in east Missouri. Tank slapper and an unceremonious get-off. On and on, anon
9:25 "Making things hard, making things impossible." I would have expected that man to say something nice about the bike given to him!
Great Summation on the GS.
I currently own a used 1991 R100GS bought in 1993 and did 2 LA to Barstow runs on it. In 2015 I traded in a 2008 K1200GT w 150hp and a 2007 KTM 525EXC for a dealer demo 2014 R1200GSAW w 125hp. I have been waiting for this bike for over 20 years. There both great bikes at what they do. The R1200GSAW is a HEAVEY bike to lift up in thick dirt and deep sand. Happy Trails Boys & Girls Rubber side down works much better.
I still have that issue of Motorcyclist magazine.
My own GS was a '93 R100GS. It was my dream bike. It was also the biggest let down of my 37 years (and counting) riding career. The chrome started peeling on one of the headers within weeks. The speedometer packed it in at 15000km. And then the biggie: those air-cooled 100GSs had a major design flaw that few people ever discuss: when BMW fitted them with long-travel suspension, the driveshaft ended-up exiting the gearbox at an angle that constantly put stress on the gearbox output bearing. Mine let go at 50000km with the bike out of warranty. The bearing seized, the gearbox output shaft sheared. Result: one destroyed BMW gearbox. One very expensive repair bill, later I was happy to sell it on, never to buy another Beemer.
Dat power slide doe.
God damn it this dudes are having the time of their life! And they ride so well, and are such good riders, they make it look like they are on bicycles.
All the best!
I can't press like enough times to express how I feel about this video. Good work guys, you are truly the Top Gear of motorcycles. I hope someone comes along and increases your budget.
I hauled all my clothing etc and a bicycle on a custom bike rack with my 1200GS from PA to GA then rode thru Deals Gap on my way back to PA. The GS out of 30 bikes Ive owned now, was absolutely amazing. People always ponder what bike they’d have if they could only pick one.. well that’s the GS for me.
i have an r80 g/s and guys, what you do with those bike is really incredible, awesome skills!
thanks enjoyed watchin
Such a really good test... As always guys! I think that this is one of my favorites episodes, with enough technical data and good humor sense! regards from Mexico!
At 13, learned to ride offroad on a 1980 R65 BMW I'd sneak out of dad's garage to play in the sand along the Rio Grande. Watched the Dakar rally a few years later and bought my first bike in 2003.. The R1150GS ADV. It was a year used and had some scratches, but also had touratech panniers already on. Loved it dearly and still have it today, after some great trips, been using it as a utility on a farm and occasional rides to town. I have 1991 and a 2005 regular GS as well, but nothing brings me joy like that 02 ADV. I think the segment was most boosted by the 2004 Ewan McGregor Long Way Round, since no one I met recognized the option before that show was released. Then other manufacturers were jumping in (KTM got the recognition as deserved, but wow they missed the boat turning those guys down).
this is a really entertaining channel, love it.
Well done lads. I'm a '85 R80gs owner. I love my bike. Probably the best tourer for Australia.
I only have an 93 ex500 at this time, however the fact that the only gripes about adv bikes are the limitations they have, I feel like my enjoyment of this bike would not be hindered by said limitations as I am not going to be so skilled that those limitations would ever really be an issue. Thank you for making this video.
I hauled a bicycle on a custom bike rack and all my stuff required for a month to Georgia from PA on a GS. Rode back and took a detour to Deal’s Gap. Dumped everything off in my room and rode the dragon for two days. Loaded back up and rode home to PA. Best damn motorcycle in the world.
A few years ago my brother and I did a 10k mile trip from Vancouver Island to Alaska. I was on an '89 GS and he was on an '05 GS. It was a fantastic trip. One notable difference was he got better gas mileage but I had greater range.
Will soon be on my fourth GS - it started close to 40yrs ago with an R80G/S, #2 was the R1150GS, #3 the Wethead version and now, #4 is back to a1981 Vintage R80G/S MOA-Foundation raffle prize fully restored by Dutch Lammers and I'll receive it in a few weeks at the 2023 50th BMW MOA National Rally June 8-10, 2023 - Excited as hell!
Great video. Just took my 2013 GS from Thousand Oaks to/through Imperial valley. Camped and hit several trails around Mt Laguna. I love that I can pull a 400 mile day on the road, ride moderately difficult jeep trails with my gear, then hop back on the pavement and set the cruise to 90 mph for the ride home. Now if only some could make my knobbies last a little longer......
I have to say that your videos have gotten so darn good! Theyre funny, packed with insightful commentary and really well shot, the whole package! Thanks for this one, always looking out for more great content.
Really glad you guys are enjoying going off road on a bike. Riding bikes 50 years here but would rather walk in the woods with camera in hand.
When I picked up my 1200 GS adventure the sales manager at the BMW dealer told me it was not a bike for off road. I couldn't believe it. He said dirt roads yes, actual off road and rough trails no. I've had it in some rough country but I see his point. I love my bike in most situations though.
I must say, i love this channel, and i even don't own a bike ! Well, i owned a Vespa, then a Yamaha DT LC 125 ypvs, then a Yamaha TDR 250 ypvs...since 1989 to 1998. Now, with 44 ya, my goal is the BMW R Nine T, and this channel is so usefull, there are lot's of things about motorcycles i forgot ! Thank you for your expertise and objective way of putting things. Cheers from Portugal.
Superb video thanks for that! I hankered after an R80 back in the 80s. After test driving all the current ADV bikes available I eventually bought a Honda Crosstourer. A heavy bike and it doesnt have all the high tech frills and fandgoes but ...... the V4 engine knocks the boxer engine into the weeds and the Honda fit and finish is absolutely second to none.
James D... i can see you missed the point and are missing a great deal of fun too. Oh well............
@@davidfalgout7304 ... Not at all. I also have a KTM 690 ENDURO R which is possibly the most fun bike to ride that there is out there just now. Being a bit of a luddite I'm not a huge fan of all the tech on the new "ADV" motorcycles. However the 690 has all the tech ABS. TRACTION CONTROL, LEAN ANGLE ABS etc etc but keeps it in the background until it is required.
@@jamesdownie2152 I read what you said. But if you don't mind let me opine as to what you meant. That is: >> "your choice of bike is better and the BMW is not as good as your choice".
Certainly we are all entitled to our own opinion.etc. But this video is about how the "Adventure movement" was very much moved into prominence thanks to the BMW GS. I know one thing for sure, when the GS won those Paris- Dakar races, any of your choices would have been left in the dust! I have ridden and owned the KTM's, the KLR, etc and also the BMW GS over the years. I can tell you for sure that the GS has a quality that NO ONE understands until they try it ( for more than a month...lol) . I do not understand why you had to put forth that your choice of those bike's are better in some way, than what BMW has done.
I do agree that when BMW started the water cooling movement, and now the shift cam... makes them less favorable for off road than the previous air/oil cooled models. But those 1250 are sure incredible to ride. They are however a handful off-road. There is a lady rider, I can not remember her name... and I have no doubt that she can ride a 1250GS off road better than 98% of us mere mortals.She would leave you and me for dead in an off-road adventures!
as a long time street rider new to the adv world, this is a great video - thanks for the angle and passion for all things moto.
I loooove On Two Wheels! Always makes me happy see guys banter and fool around like grown ass kids.
I recently purchased an R80ST. This a GS with an R65 front end and a 19" front wheel. The rear shock had less travel and no bash plate but otherwise..... it's a GS. BMW wanted to make a more streetable version. I have to say.... this ST handles amazingly at that's compared to today's standard. If it had a bit more power it would be the ultimate motorcycle in my eyes. I have an R1100S and I enjoy the ST so much more.
Ari is a hoot.
You both have some serious riding skills and you have fun while doing these videos.
Good stuff Maynard.
I just got my first ADV bike a few weeks ago, a 2013 BMW1200 GSA 90th anniversary edition, and so far have only commuted to work on it, I cant wait for my first adventure, I think eventually I want to do the trans american trail on it! So far I love it! Great bike, I come from primarily sportbikes, and then SuperMoto, and now ADV, this is one great bike and I hope I can find some epic adventures soon!
One of the best motorcycle relations I have ever seen.
was a pleasure to watch I must say as a huge GS fan
9:25 "Making things impossible, making things hard, that's what the G/S is all about" 😂
I thing that the 800cc GS is better that the 1200cc for off road, much more lighter and more important the engine is inside the frame.
If you want comfy touring get 1200gs, if you want offroad it's Tiger 800 all the way.
no for Offroad ( and also Highway) KTM 790 Adventure or Tenere 700.
Totally
As a pretty new motorcycle rider I wanted something that could be almost universal. Ended up getting a DL650 as a first bike and must say the adventure bike category is absolutely a must for any motorcycle stable.
Great vid. It is because of people like you, and videos like that that I made the change to the 1200GS and attend events like MMM. This bike and this style is great at everything it does. The perfect daily rider on top of that. Thanks!
at minute 5:38, how is the audio being caputred? Is a lav mic taped to the side of the bluetooth communications set?
Bought a GS in '88 when they first went to 1000cc; loved it, got lotsa weird looks from passerby, rode it for 20 years.
Totally Epic Adventure! I live for Dual Sport & ADV bikes. That's why I have one of each.
Had one. Lot's of fun and adventure. I wasn't much good off road, but it would go where ever I pointed it. Just for fun, ride with the single Krauser bag with a watermelon in it. Interesting balance! Best small mods: Shoei FM-2 mini fairing and San Jose BMW upper triple clamp. Weirdest thing: going through a big dip with a passenger on board and feeling the monolever twist/untwist and rock the bike side to side.
You guys and Fortnine are putting out the best motorcycle vids right now period. Keep up the good work
Nice video...entertaining and informative. My first adv was a 1990 honda transalpfollowed by 3 yam tdm 850 on which I rode 100,000 mes each, then the triumph 955i tiger, now I'm going back to future by converting my BMW R100RT to gs spec! Wish me luck...keep up the great work
Fantastic piece guys. The cerebral and sentimental aspects only add to your technical feedback. Thanks for informing and moving me.
Best On Two Wheels yet, great vid :)
What a cool episode. I have had dirt bikes and street bikes but this was the first time I could actually see something in the middle as fun and challenging (in a positive way). There's no doubt that BMW makes a solid bike. I might just have to go sit on one or bum a ride off somebody to see if it clicks with me in real life. Thanks for this episode. I love it when I watch, read or hear something that tweaks my worldview a bit. Cheers...
New Rider here and got a f650gs as my first bike & i love it! can't wait to better myself until i can ride on of the 1200 gs babes! & you guys are great!
I'm a new rider, in fact I'm in the process of getting my license. I have given much thought to what kind of rider I want to be, what kind of bike I want. The challenge of combining something I can commute to and from work, something I can go on long hauls across Norway or even Europe, and something that will thrill me, but not kill me (referring to R bikes, which I am never riding again due to my over-aggressive adrenal glands), I am pretty much convinced I need a GS. Or at least a road-capable ADV.
I also love your garage series, big props from a new fan from Northern Norway (please bring an adventure here, I'll brew the beer.)
Haha, the GS is a bit on the heavy side, I agree. Currently debating im looking at a 95 R1100GS or a 95 Honda Africa Twin 750. The Honda is a bit more my style, and it's fairly bulletproof.
Keep up the good show!
I thoroughly enjoyed this video.
This quote: “They didn’t get it...they didn’t understand that by compromising a little bit in the dirt and a little bit on the pavement they were gaining so much in terms of versatility in one bike that can do so much.”
And: “People complain about the cost of the bike, the weight of the bike...but that’s pretty much where the list ends.”
Awesome.
Great presentation, great story. This is what motorcycle journalism is. Fantastic job Motorcyclist group.
I have an '88 R100GS Bumblebeemer, and even when I bought it and was a young guy, there was NO way I was able to ride it in the dirt like that. Very impressive!
The guy was Hungarian ... Laszlo Peres his name.Worked for bmw up until his retirement.... Excellent video guys by the way!!!!!!
I really love to ride my R80 GS as well as the R9T and the KTM 790 Adv. All of them are superb Bikes with own Character. I wish everyone adventurous and accident-free journeys.
I was smiling the whole time, felt like I was on the GS. I have an f650 funduro 1996 but oh man I can not wait to get my hands on a 2018/9ish gs850. One day!
Bought My PD "Classic" new in '95 from BMW NY (gone). Couldn't resist. Black and BMW, 2 B's for Me. Still MINE. My first bike was a '68 R60 (CA and Back, 19 years old). My GS is my fave forever (and I've owned and/or raced Triumph's, Norton's, Ducati's, Honda's and Kawasaki's). Now I'm almost 67 years old. Take it fast on road and off. Too Big ? Hahaha...I AM BIG ! ...I take my wife. We Likey Lots. Hope to ride it another 20 years. Nice Video, Youngsters. Fun and ALL TRUE !
When I first saw the factory bikes BMW brought to the 1973 ISDT I knew I just HAD to have a BMW dirt bike. Given that none were available back then, I found a very nice R90/6 to which I mounted Conti Trials tires and off I went. I finally bought a G/SPD in 1986, I am currently refurbishing is after 90k miles of "dual sport" riding (what it was called before it was called Adventure riding...) and it will complement my 1997 1150GS and my 2007 G650 Xchallenge. I sold my HP2 enduro before I killed myself on it. These are the best motorcycles in the world!
Very entertaining and information video guys! Really enjoyed and loved the coffee shop part...well, because its true!
The first time I remember seeing a BMW adv bike was fall of 1988. I was driving a truck from Kathmandu Nepal into India and met a bike on the road. I remember thinking that would be a great way to travel out there in south asia. Cheers!!
This one makes me proud to own and old GS!
I have both 1982 GS and 2008 R1200 GS,I've had the R80 for 37 years, still fun to ride, feels like a mini bike compared to the R1200.I remember one ride trying to keep up with a couple of mates on Yamaha IT 175s,that was hard work, be even harder on the R1200.
As a 1991 BMW R100GS Paris Dakar owner, thanks for this cool segment.
You guys are awesome. Watching this full for the second time.
These two guys have great chemistry for reviews and excellent riding skills
"Ha, bolt up a couple more 6-8 foglights..." You guys are great!
you guys have the best thing going on youtube. i watch every video with a smile.
Nice vid, rode one in the day. Prefered my XT600 Tenere, still got it.
I'm so jealous to see the big 1200GS Adventure ridden like a dirt bike. Still working my way up to that level as a new 1200 GSA owner.
Great closing comments. That Thai section looks like a blast.
Great words in the end. It realy rapped it all. The GS was and is a great bike. I'm not a great fan of the last GS. It is to much Star Wars.... my dream GS is the 2006-13 (K255) model. It is the perfect mix of the old R80GS and modern bikes.
You guys are the TOP GEAR for motorcycles!!!!
Make a TV show please!!!!
This channel needs more views! Awesome work and great humour.
Your best work yet Zack and Ari ! You are getting very good at this video thang, well done. Owned 3 of them and "get it".
Question: Would you say that it's really the sub-1000cc mid-weight ADV bikes that are truly the closest to the R80 legacy? (closer in weight and power) OR do you really think the GSA feel even with it's size difference and abundance of driver aids can still capture that R80 feel? (I guess that's how I feel... the GSA is just so damned... BIG).
Comment: I rented a GS for a long weekend adventure in Germany (and Lux, Bel, Fra) earlier this year. It is a TRULY enjoyable bike to tour... even though I was on dirt for maybe 20 miles out of 1500 (virtually all the miles were rural though... maybe 50 autobahn). This is coming from someone who specifically opted for the Multistrada over the GSA because I knew I'd not be riding dirt more than 5-10%. The GS is not really a corner carver, but when you're looking at a $2000 damage deductible... it's a much better option knowing you need to "behave yourself" than renting a Multi, XR, or other on-road performance oriented ADV bike.
See this is what motorcycling is all about. Unsophisticated fun. Track or offroad, B-road or supermoto, it doesn't matter. Riding is aaaaaaalllllllllllll about FUN!
Hey guys, well presented . personally i own GS adv 2016 just been 5 months so i will looking forward from you guys more reviews to come. Keep it up.