Every road tester has been saying how much faster the 1300 is over the 1250.After watching your vid it doesn't seem like there us much difference.Sometimes it feels like some testers are towing the company line.Great Side by side comparison 👍
It honestly feels loads faster, mainly due to how much more it likes to rev and its much more eager. But as you can see in the video actually there isn't a huge amount in it.. But to ride there is allot more punch
Rode one 3 months ago. Couldnt really feel any diff in acceleration between the 2. If I was riding alot of gravel and offroad, Id choose the 1300 since it feels more nimble and smaller. For mixed roads or mainly tarmac..1250 looks better imo and no need to spend the extra cash
Very well done mates! Was a very enjoyable comparison to watch. Not sure if the 1300 is a game changer for me despite having a predictable better performing motor and feedback. The 1250 still has tremendous torque and I do like the brutal looks of the 1250. I can’t justify, including the additional cost, trading in my 2021 Triple Black. Greetings, Jim
Thanks Gregorio for your willingness, enthusiasm and experienced opinion given to these two BMW models, both at lower and higher speeds!! I enjoyed listening to your feedback on both models! Thank you for the serious input and light hearted banter and laughs 😅please stay available for more reviews 😇❤️
Hats off to both of you, it's very easy to spec race the 2 bikes. Having them both available to you with a Gregg in the mix is what sets your review apart. Looking forward to the future comparisons.
It’s quite interesting that there’s not as much difference between the two models as BMW would like you to believe. Great review and seeing them side by side shows how much smaller the 1300 is
I did read something a couple of years ago, that they had developed a system (but not released) but felt that it wasn't reliable enough and I think that's why they have kept the familiar switches on all of their bikes, I've got to be honest with you, I've had back lit switch gear before, but it's not something that I thought I need.... because with muscle memory, you end up remembering where everything is anyway... well I do
@LambChopRides buddy, can you do a sports tourer comparison. My Tracer 9Gt being nicked back in December I am looking at getting another sports tourer in the coming month or two. I am looking at another Tracer, a suzuki gsx s1000gt or the kawasaki s1000sx. Keep up the cracking videos dude .
Great video gents as ever - love your work together! I do struggle with the new bike on the aesthetics front - other than that (and the price which is a lot higher than the outgoing bike if you spec it with radar and adaptive ride height - neither of which come as standard on the TE spec) it is a superb riding machine for sure. Will be interesting if the new looks and sportier nature will appeal to the traditional GS buyers who I think in the main are looking for comfort and versatility rather than out and out performance.....expecially given the price. Time will tell!
That 1250 is where it's at for me. I've no doubt that the 1300 is a great bike but the stance of that 1250 to my eye is just insanely beautiful. Heck i could stick it in my garage and just look at it all day and it would still give me pleasure.
I really enjoying your videos and had to smile that you were at the Alton BMW centre. I sent them an email wanting to buy one, fully spec’d asap, as I did my Ducati Diavel, that I currently own a S1000 R and and R1250 RT made me surprised they did not bite my arm off. Perhaps they are selling like hot cakes as I got no response, not even a dear John email. Keep up the videos. 👌🏾
Enjoyed your comparison and jokes 😊 Don't like the price of this new version, and would much prefer a rear tail light , the more lightning the better, safety every time .
Have owned 1200 and 1250 GSes and loved them all at the time, got fed up with the overall agricultural feel though so am now on a 22 M Sport XR. It's a brilliant bike, apart from off road which doesn't interest me it's as much an all rounder as the older GSes. Had an hour on the new 1300 a few weeks ago and was really impressed, feels like a GS but very different in my opinion, as you both mention it's just better in every department, not by miles, but then it didn't need to be, but enough to make a big overall improvement. Had the XR coming on 2 years now and can't think of another bike i'd actually prefer, looking forward to the GSA 1300 launch, that might be the one. Great back to back review
One of the best motorcycle review pairings on TH-cam. Well done gents. I could certainly live without the extra tech on the 1300 22K is just too salty But I'm still thinking the 1300 is everything I could ever need (says the grey middle-aged man 😂)
Mr Chops the burning smell is most likely coming from the 1300, there’s a recall for the Starter motor relay because it’s barbecuing it’s self, just as a side note you can now match the 1300’s display and up the heated grips to 10 levels on the 1250 using the hex 911 Diagnostic Tool
Yet another bloody good video. So nice to see familiar locations when you film. I have ridden the 1300 but not the 1250 so this was a good video for me. Still hope to buy the 1300.
Great video as usual. If anything it shows how good the 1250 is, but yes the new one, as one would expect is better. Shite headlight though!!!!. Trying so hard not to upgrade from my triple black 1250 with gold wheels as wife will kill me......(again)😂
As i owned a 69 plate 1250 gsa te exclusive, i was looking at both the 73 plate 1250 gsa triple black, and the 1300 on launch day, i was surprised at the differences between the two 1250's alone ! They were so different to ride ! Even throttle response was much stronger and smoother and engine quieter on the newer bike ! I wasn't taken with the 1300's looks from the front, so i bought a 73 plate gsa triple black because i love its looks and the newer 1250 was such a big improvement over my 4 year old gsa, software settings had also changed, like the 1300, it also has more heated grip settings, along with the heated seats, and is set the same way with the buttons, not just a single button, the only major difference was that my 2nd 1250 is a factory low chassis model, but it handles so much better, its actually nimble and handles like a sportsbike ! Anyway despite being offered the 1300 for the SAME price, i bought the 1250, i made the right choice for me, i didn't feel the 1300 was right for me, esp as it would've mean't laying out for even more accessories because my old ac's won't fit, bonus of keeping the old shape, anyway, its got to be the right choice for you i feel, i didn't think the 1300 was a big improvement for me or its looks.... i guess i'll revisit it in 3 or 4 years... keep up the great reviews chopsey !
Chopsie! You forgot to measure the most important metric when comparing bikes: which one has better storage space for sandwiches?? Great review as always. Keep up the great work!
Not a GS, but last year I bought a Gen 3 Hayabusa. What a machine. Yet every time I rode it, looking at the plethora of information on the TFT, marvelling at its technical prowess, I couldn't help feeling the electronic gadgetry was more intrusive than I wanted. I persevered for a year before finally moving it on, and replacing it with an older, but far more engaging Kawasaki ZZR1400. I find myself looking at the new GS and wondering if it is a similar situation to the one I was in. Too much tech.
The European bikes have far more sophisticated electronics in my experience. It's far less intrusive. Japanese manufacturers seem to really dial the electronics up to step in quickly. My Ducati let me pop healthy wheelies with the wheelie control on the lowest level. I think it's just a difference in philosophy. The Japanese look at electronics as saviors and the Europeans look at electronics as aides. It's a subtle difference but it can be felt when riding the two.
Really good video guys thank you. I actually saw you both on the road this day, i was on my way to Bahnstormer, i was driving a metallic grey transit …i waved, you nodded ! thank you! 🤷🏼♂ I have the green 719 on order and its due in next month, so im really excited and appreciated this…thank you. Kind regards Beans.
Between you two you notice so many things, which is an excellent in a comparison test 👍🏻 The 1300 seems to be more things to more people.....I'm interested 😮 Great vid Chopsy 😎👍🏻
Great comparison as usual guys. When people ride the GS it always seem to get under their skin in the end regardless of opinions pre-ride. Will be interesting to see the group tests when they start coming out pretty soon presumably.
I came across a test done by an italian motorcycle magazine on a race track and the R1250GS is was slightly quicker on the roll-ons, probably because it makes the peak torque a tad earlier
Yes this is finally the perfect GS, I didn’t ride one yet but I can’t wait this springs demo. Never really was crazy about the 1250. To big and cumbersome for my stature. 179cm, just wasn’t my dream bike, I was going to buy something like the Norden this summer, middle size adv seemed more my type of ride. But ever since the 1300GS came out I feel like BMW finally made a perfect GS for guys my size. Now I already made up my mind, I am buying a Trophy version this summer but with all the extras I need. That’s including the adaptive ride height and DSA, electric windscreen… Well as much as I can afford to get on it 😊. Great comparison review guys, thank you.
As an ex motorcycle recovery man who did work for motorrad I hope the 1300 is more reliable. The 1250 was a standing joke between our drivers due to the sheer number of breakdowns, so much more than any other brand.
Love my 1250GS. It's a handful playing with sport/nakeds in the corners where you run out of ground clearance and the suspension stops keeping up, but it ticks every other box. I think if you're buying it to use as a weekend bike you'll be disappointed it isn't lighter and more agile.. but for a workhorse you can use to "keep up" with your mates on super nakeds it'll surprise the hell out of people. I suspect the 1300's new suspension and chassis is more appealing for someone like me, but I won't be upgrading to it. If I wanted something faster in the corners I'd go full fat and get an S1000XR.
A great review. I thought the 1300 was a bit meh, but that height adjustment would sell it for me if I was in the market. I think all adventure bikes need that
Having owned three GSs I appreciate they are a superb package, but they suit the tall ageing world explorer wannabe who loves their tech. Decided I fancied a change so I chopped in my 2019 1250 GSA for the ‘baby’ Multi V2S. Can honestly say that I’ve never regretted the change, 45kg lighter, superb handling and no BMW gives you the feeling you get when I open the garage to a red Ducati. The gearbox and engine sound in the mid range are so much better than GS even if I have to use the gearbox on overtakes because of the lower torque. Next change I’m seriously though considering the new Stelvio, you don’t need 150hp to enjoy British roads.
I think all bikes should be tested this way because the best liar of all is memory. But this way you have a direct accurate comparison immediately. Road, weather & time of day affect conditions. Well done! Great chirps too.
Had the same experience as Gregario- first fifteen minutes .. yeah ok after an hour … wow and bought one. Agree with a lot of the criticisms though such as lack of backlit controls on such a premium bike.
Not a lot in the power by looks of it. But clearly paying for the better R&D and changes they have built in to the 1300. 1250 clearly up there still. I personally like the more sporty look of the 13. Nice review chaps
Although these bike's are not my sort of thing I'd still be happy ending up with either of them in my garage. They are obviously a firm favourite with a lot of people because you see so many of them on the road, which proves how good they must be. Awesome comparison again Chops...love it ❤👍😊
I put just over 5k miles on my 23 Ralley last summer and I loved every one of them. I like the new radar tech on the 1300 but it sounds like I don’t need to be in a big hurry to upgrade.
Fabulous comparison guys, just had my 1250 serviced today and seeing the 1300 in the flesh at the dealer I’m starting to like it (most common phrase for this new bike - “its growing on me” - applies). Looking forward to riding one soon and see if it tempts an upgrade
…good old A272 then guys. 👍 all local to me. I’m sure the 1300 is in every way better, but is it a better GS… 1300 is steering slightly away from the ‘point’ of the gs maybe. Likely I’m completely wrong… looked cold out there, but great video. Many thanks.
Top class review Chops and Gregorio! I like the compactness of the new 1300. I think for road only the RS will be a better option as it is now over the 1250!
I think my choice would be a used 1250, tweaked a little either via a tune or gearing for some extra bottom-range oomph. I'm not convinced that I'd fully appreciate the further niceties of the 1300. Top vid as per, Chops 💖
Enjoyed your ramble. Perhaps an idea for a video would be how you clean your bike at this mucky time of year, your thoughts on ceramic coating versus alternative protection and how ACF50 fits into the schedule. I did watch your earlier video on that product but what I’m suggesting is different, I think!
Love the review! You always make the best, thank you. I am waiting for a 1300 Tramuntana and am spooked about the recalls we have been hearing about and fire risk etc… any thoughts on this? Ducati V4sGT in play. 🙏
Bang on comment : “ the 1250 is vaguer on the steering than the 1300” Spot on. I found that to be the biggest difference. Having said that I hated the engine and gearbox noise of the 1300… not for me
Chopsy, always liked your videos. But these duo reviews with grig.. your mate, are spot on. Maybe some international rides together could be a good thing mate.
Bottom line summary, two very nice bikes, The new on just a little bit nicer. If your contemplating a new bike, if you get a good deal on a 1250 it’s a great bike. Or you can pay the price and get the new one. Chops is quite a bit taller than me, the ride height for pound sounds like a good option. I ride a standard GS I can flat foot but it’s definitely a big tall bike. I like it. I am an easy sale, I ride a GS. I’m not looking for a new bike but when I do the GS is the most likely choice. Which one depends on my budget. Do you think the new one will appeal more to riders who previously would have picked another style or brand. Over the previous GS?
Thanks for the test, you guys are a great duo. For me, the 1300 GS felt unnecessarily "sporty" or harsh and overall it seems it was made to be more approachable for short people. It's always good to get more people into riding, but then it's unfortunately the wrong kind of bike for me, 6'7" & 17.5 stone. I stick with the 1250 GSA
The GS is the bike I have no issues with and would recommend to many people looking for a touring bike if they’re on the taller side. I would just never consider one myself. I don’t have any interest in these big adventure bikes, but the Tiger and Multistrada are more my style. Doesn’t really matter because I’ll never spend $20k+ on a motorcycle again. I’d love to see Aprilia do a Taureg V4 though. It would be worth it for the soundtrack alone. Even if it was on a budget to keep the price down. Like a 2019 Tuono V4 on stilts
I've always preferred a motorcycle that you sit in rather than on. In my style of riding many of the differences only show up on paper. I've never felt the 1250 lacking in hp or torque. Quite the contrary. Gearbox wise I think the 1250 is the finest I've ever had. Very light clutch pull and smooth gear actuation. I don't even use the quick shifter. What I noticed about the 1300 is that it is marginally more flickable. I do really like the blind spot monitoring and hope something that can be added to virtually any bike. The adaptive cruise control is nice for those who use interstate roads for travel. I avoid them so I would probably never use it. Both great bikes. I'll keep my 1250.
I would like to add that the feeling of acceleration is slightly enhanced on motorcycles you sit on rather than in. The 1300 is, in reality, quicker than the 1250 but BMW knows that you can enhance that feeling by altering the geometry. It's just physics.
Great side by side comparison, I have a 1250 adventure, it seems to me there isn’t enough difference to justify a change at this stage, I have owned many GS’s over the passed 17 years, the design of the new one, the size and look will certainly pull in a new generation of customers, however, your die hard GS owners may have a different opinion to be honest, is the 1250 the last of the true GS’s? I will be interested to see the new GSA though!
Bloody brilliant stuff ☘️😁 from northern Ireland really enjoyed this one 🤞 and looking forward to the rest of the year,, good honest reviews on our roads ☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️
I have a 1250 GSA with the same TFT and electronics and the bike has lived in dynamic or enduro pro mode for two years. Every thing else is just adding weight.
I love the video and totaly agree with Chopsie, the new bike is much better looking. I also miss the brilliant BMW adjustable suspension while riding. Now that I'm old I absolutely have to have heated grips, all the other gadgets take them or leave them
Great review from the Chops & Greg team .I Like both of the bikes , just a bit too pricey for my budget. Also I just can’t get over the boxer engine. I Will have to take one for a test ride , maybe to understand what makes them so popular. Till then the sports tourer will have to do .
Looks like it has kept all the good points of GS but moved BMW towards the more dynamic multistrada and KTMs on the road, which makes sense. It will be interesting to see how off-road focussed the R1400GS is.
Great video Chopsie, looks like a decent step up from the 1250. I’ve just bought a new 2023 KTM 1290 super adventure R in December. £2k discount from KTM plus 4 year extended warranty. Also found a dealer chucking in a free Akrapovic worth £1300. I added the Tech pack as an extra and it was roughly the same price (fully loaded) as the entry level R1300gs so I decided to not even try the bimmer. Big step forward from my 1190r. Any chance you could review the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R instead of the S versus the GS? The suspension is now next level (non electric) and I think the bike often gets overlooked being marketed as being a bit more off road capable. It’s a proper monster of a thing, perfect for the rider carrying a bit more, ahem, baggage like me. 👍🏻
I love the direction BMW are headed with their range. As a R1200RT owner I was holding out for the new R1300RT that will inevitably arrive. However, as my local dealership is closing BMW as a brand for me are a non-starter for a new bike.
@@jonelvidge9191 Yep, been a customer and BMW owner of one bike or another for a good few years now and although I don't mind travelling on my bike I don't want a days expedition just to get it serviced.
Nice comparison but I feel it comes down to price for most... almost 21.5k for a Triple Black TE + luggage (and that's without the fancy ride height or cruise control / blind spot which adds another 1.3k !!) when you can pick up an almost new 1250 TB TE + luggage for 16k...
I think it's also worth mentioning that the 1300 requires a new drive shaft replacement at the 30k service...not something bmw seem to be highlighting. Not an issue for those changing on pcps but if you arw buying it and do the miles that's a costly service at probably we'll over £1k 🤔
Where did you get that info from? I asked the dealer about this rumour and he said BMW suggests at 80k mileage a replacement of a bearing but not the whole drive shaft. This info was confirmed in a few places.
@@adinovak2352 For the BMW R 1300 GS, BMW explicity recommends replacing the shaft every 36 000 miles / 60 000 km. This is quite a big job, but important preventative maintenance The above is available on several websites which published the service schedule details. I am told its due to the known shaft issues they have had on the 1200 / 1250s which they have had to cover under warranty 😮
Thx for clarification. My dealer says sth different but the conclusion is that the shaft drive is not as eternal as many people claim :-D Anyway, today I have an appointment with the dealer and decided to place an order with 1250gs :-D The 1300gs doesn't cause butterflies in my stomach. Seems kind of metrosexual with its bald forehead :-D @@dazzer4220
Hi Chops, how's your fantastic H2 these days, after the gut wrenching time when it was dropped last year, hope we see it on the channel sometime, still never seen one on the road to this day, only when launched I saw one at the Motorcycle show in Birmingham years ago, all the best old chap. 👍👍👍👍👍
Yeah still got it, deciding what to do with it this year... Might sell it, might just keep it on sorn or might get an MOT and use it.. Still undecided. Also depends what the insurance is, as everyone telling me things have shot up this year 🤷♂️
Oh, you can definitely do track days. Remember that 10 years ago you went to track days with sport bikes with LESS hp than this. A GS in the twisty roads was ALWAYS good anyway.
Great video again chap's, did the Morestead rd today but I was in a car wow trees gone left right and centre and mud everywhere,glad I was in a car😅 Got a high standard of videos to keep up this year 👍👍
Failure to backlight the switchgear and abandoning the rear brakelight,(a real safety issue for me) is a backward evolutionary step. There have been problems with the new plastic panniers. Love my 1250 GSA! Do I need more power? No Do I want to pay 5to 6k to upgrade? No. BMW might be a premium bike but the 1300 is definitely moving out of my price range.
Still prefer the more rugged looks of the 1250 I won't be changing my 40th anniversary gsa for the new model. Great review guys
Every road tester has been saying how much faster the 1300 is over the 1250.After watching your vid it doesn't seem like there us much difference.Sometimes it feels like some testers are towing the company line.Great Side by side comparison 👍
It honestly feels loads faster, mainly due to how much more it likes to rev and its much more eager. But as you can see in the video actually there isn't a huge amount in it.. But to ride there is allot more punch
Rode one 3 months ago. Couldnt really feel any diff in acceleration between the 2.
If I was riding alot of gravel and offroad, Id choose the 1300 since it feels more nimble and smaller.
For mixed roads or mainly tarmac..1250 looks better imo and no need to spend the extra cash
With only a tad more horsepower you'll only really see a difference at higher speeds (e.g. above 80mph when wind resistance comes into play).
Very well done mates! Was a very enjoyable comparison to watch. Not sure if the 1300 is a game changer for me despite having a predictable better performing motor and feedback. The 1250 still has tremendous torque and I do like the brutal looks of the 1250. I can’t justify, including the additional cost, trading in my 2021 Triple Black. Greetings, Jim
Thanks Gregorio for your willingness, enthusiasm and experienced opinion given to these two BMW models, both at lower and higher speeds!! I enjoyed listening to your feedback on both models! Thank you for the serious input and light hearted banter and laughs 😅please stay available for more reviews 😇❤️
Hats off to both of you, it's very easy to spec race the 2 bikes. Having them both available to you with a Gregg in the mix is what sets your review apart.
Looking forward to the future comparisons.
Thanks buddy 👍
It’s quite interesting that there’s not as much difference between the two models as BMW would like you to believe. Great review and seeing them side by side shows how much smaller the 1300 is
Great comparison, chaps! The ol 1250 ain’t dead yet! 👍🏻
Certainly not 👍
£20K+ yet BMW still can’t be arsed to fit backlit switchgear !!
I did read something a couple of years ago, that they had developed a system (but not released) but felt that it wasn't reliable enough and I think that's why they have kept the familiar switches on all of their bikes, I've got to be honest with you, I've had back lit switch gear before, but it's not something that I thought I need.... because with muscle memory, you end up remembering where everything is anyway... well I do
Yeah doesn't both me either Gren.
I’ve ridden 45 years without it, how did I cope 😂
😂@@marksimpson5218
😂
You guys together are doing a fine job.Thanks.
Cracking video Mr Chops. I am not a BMW fan, but that was very interesting to watch.
Well than we succeeded 😁👍
@LambChopRides buddy, can you do a sports tourer comparison. My Tracer 9Gt being nicked back in December I am looking at getting another sports tourer in the coming month or two. I am looking at another Tracer, a suzuki gsx s1000gt or the kawasaki s1000sx. Keep up the cracking videos dude .
Great video gents as ever - love your work together! I do struggle with the new bike on the aesthetics front - other than that (and the price which is a lot higher than the outgoing bike if you spec it with radar and adaptive ride height - neither of which come as standard on the TE spec) it is a superb riding machine for sure. Will be interesting if the new looks and sportier nature will appeal to the traditional GS buyers who I think in the main are looking for comfort and versatility rather than out and out performance.....expecially given the price. Time will tell!
Many thanks Andy 👍
That 1250 is where it's at for me. I've no doubt that the 1300 is a great bike but the stance of that 1250 to my eye is just insanely beautiful. Heck i could stick it in my garage and just look at it all day and it would still give me pleasure.
I really enjoying your videos and had to smile that you were at the Alton BMW centre. I sent them an email wanting to buy one, fully spec’d asap, as I did my Ducati Diavel, that I currently own a S1000 R and and R1250 RT made me surprised they did not bite my arm off. Perhaps they are selling like hot cakes as I got no response, not even a dear John email. Keep up the videos. 👌🏾
I definitely enjoy the comparison with both of you adding your bits , thanks Chops and ride safe
Now. The new GS had put on my radar . Best comparison review I’ve seen . Chop pulled it out the bag again .👍
Much appreciated! :-)
Great review and comparison chaps, the best I've seen, thank you. Not a lot between to two, an incremental upgrade with the R1300.
Enjoyed your comparison and jokes 😊
Don't like the price of this new version, and would much prefer a rear tail light , the more lightning the better, safety every time .
Good idea riding them together and comparing I learned a lot . Thanks guys.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Have owned 1200 and 1250 GSes and loved them all at the time, got fed up with the overall agricultural feel though so am now on a 22 M Sport XR. It's a brilliant bike, apart from off road which doesn't interest me it's as much an all rounder as the older GSes. Had an hour on the new 1300 a few weeks ago and was really impressed, feels like a GS but very different in my opinion, as you both mention it's just better in every department, not by miles, but then it didn't need to be, but enough to make a big overall improvement. Had the XR coming on 2 years now and can't think of another bike i'd actually prefer, looking forward to the GSA 1300 launch, that might be the one. Great back to back review
Great review, guys; I love this bike swap format with Greg.
One of the best motorcycle review pairings on TH-cam. Well done gents.
I could certainly live without the extra tech on the 1300
22K is just too salty
But I'm still thinking the 1300 is everything I could ever need (says the grey middle-aged man 😂)
Very kind sir 🙏
Mr Chops the burning smell is most likely coming from the 1300, there’s a recall for the Starter motor relay because it’s barbecuing it’s self, just as a side note you can now match the 1300’s display and up the heated grips to 10 levels on the 1250 using the hex 911 Diagnostic Tool
It’s not 10 levels. 1-6 levels are the new options.
@@OneManTrail 👍
Yet another bloody good video. So nice to see familiar locations when you film. I have ridden the 1300 but not the 1250 so this was a good video for me. Still hope to buy the 1300.
Great video as usual. If anything it shows how good the 1250 is, but yes the new one, as one would expect is better. Shite headlight though!!!!. Trying so hard not to upgrade from my triple black 1250 with gold wheels as wife will kill me......(again)😂
As i owned a 69 plate 1250 gsa te exclusive, i was looking at both the 73 plate 1250 gsa triple black, and the 1300 on launch day, i was surprised at the differences between the two 1250's alone ! They were so different to ride ! Even throttle response was much stronger and smoother and engine quieter on the newer bike ! I wasn't taken with the 1300's looks from the front, so i bought a 73 plate gsa triple black because i love its looks and the newer 1250 was such a big improvement over my 4 year old gsa, software settings had also changed, like the 1300, it also has more heated grip settings, along with the heated seats, and is set the same way with the buttons, not just a single button, the only major difference was that my 2nd 1250 is a factory low chassis model, but it handles so much better, its actually nimble and handles like a sportsbike ! Anyway despite being offered the 1300 for the SAME price, i bought the 1250, i made the right choice for me, i didn't feel the 1300 was right for me, esp as it would've mean't laying out for even more accessories because my old ac's won't fit, bonus of keeping the old shape, anyway, its got to be the right choice for you i feel, i didn't think the 1300 was a big improvement for me or its looks.... i guess i'll revisit it in 3 or 4 years... keep up the great reviews chopsey !
Chopsie! You forgot to measure the most important metric when comparing bikes: which one has better storage space for sandwiches??
Great review as always. Keep up the great work!
Not a GS, but last year I bought a Gen 3 Hayabusa. What a machine. Yet every time I rode it, looking at the plethora of information on the TFT, marvelling at its technical prowess, I couldn't help feeling the electronic gadgetry was more intrusive than I wanted. I persevered for a year before finally moving it on, and replacing it with an older, but far more engaging Kawasaki ZZR1400.
I find myself looking at the new GS and wondering if it is a similar situation to the one I was in. Too much tech.
The European bikes have far more sophisticated electronics in my experience. It's far less intrusive. Japanese manufacturers seem to really dial the electronics up to step in quickly. My Ducati let me pop healthy wheelies with the wheelie control on the lowest level. I think it's just a difference in philosophy. The Japanese look at electronics as saviors and the Europeans look at electronics as aides. It's a subtle difference but it can be felt when riding the two.
Love the zzr miss my one
Really good video guys thank you. I actually saw you both on the road this day, i was on my way to Bahnstormer, i was driving a metallic grey transit …i waved, you nodded ! thank you! 🤷🏼♂
I have the green 719 on order and its due in next month, so im really excited and appreciated this…thank you.
Kind regards Beans.
Oh no way Beans, I can't remember buddy sorry.. probably miles away Haha 👍
Between you two you notice so many things, which is an excellent in a comparison test 👍🏻 The 1300 seems to be more things to more people.....I'm interested 😮 Great vid Chopsy 😎👍🏻
Thanks Nick 👍
Great comparison as usual guys. When people ride the GS it always seem to get under their skin in the end regardless of opinions pre-ride. Will be interesting to see the group tests when they start coming out pretty soon presumably.
Thanks RR 👍
I came across a test done by an italian motorcycle magazine on a race track and the R1250GS is was slightly quicker on the roll-ons, probably because it makes the peak torque a tad earlier
Brilliant real world comparison thankyou 😊
Great vid, loved the comparison, good fun.
Great comparison chopsy you and Greg a great laugh and Great to hear both your views. 👍😁
Thanks Wattie 👍
Yes this is finally the perfect GS, I didn’t ride one yet but I can’t wait this springs demo. Never really was crazy about the 1250. To big and cumbersome for my stature. 179cm, just wasn’t my dream bike, I was going to buy something like the Norden this summer, middle size adv seemed more my type of ride. But ever since the 1300GS came out I feel like BMW finally made a perfect GS for guys my size. Now I already made up my mind, I am buying a Trophy version this summer but with all the extras I need. That’s including the adaptive ride height and DSA, electric windscreen… Well as much as I can afford to get on it 😊. Great comparison review guys, thank you.
Absolutely nailed it there guys, a very insightful & realistic assessment of the two most recent GS options.
As an ex motorcycle recovery man who did work for motorrad I hope the 1300 is more reliable.
The 1250 was a standing joke between our drivers due to the sheer number of breakdowns, so much more than any other brand.
Love my 1250GS. It's a handful playing with sport/nakeds in the corners where you run out of ground clearance and the suspension stops keeping up, but it ticks every other box. I think if you're buying it to use as a weekend bike you'll be disappointed it isn't lighter and more agile.. but for a workhorse you can use to "keep up" with your mates on super nakeds it'll surprise the hell out of people.
I suspect the 1300's new suspension and chassis is more appealing for someone like me, but I won't be upgrading to it. If I wanted something faster in the corners I'd go full fat and get an S1000XR.
Nice review guys 👏👏👏
Great vid Chopsy! Loving the banter with Gregorio, he seems like a cool dude.
Thanks Dan appreciated buddy!!
Great video Chopsie, that bit closer to ownership 😉
I am watching this from my home in West Vancouver , Canada. I proudly display a Bahnstormer sticker on my 2022 r1250gs.
Lovely 😁👍
Excellent video Chops (and Greg)!
Glad you enjoyed it
A great review. I thought the 1300 was a bit meh, but that height adjustment would sell it for me if I was in the market. I think all adventure bikes need that
Greg is great. Really love to hear him in your videos. Such a nice guy.
Having owned three GSs I appreciate they are a superb package, but they suit the tall ageing world explorer wannabe who loves their tech. Decided I fancied a change so I chopped in my 2019 1250 GSA for the ‘baby’ Multi V2S. Can honestly say that I’ve never regretted the change, 45kg lighter, superb handling and no BMW gives you the feeling you get when I open the garage to a red Ducati. The gearbox and engine sound in the mid range are so much better than GS even if I have to use the gearbox on overtakes because of the lower torque. Next change I’m seriously though considering the new Stelvio, you don’t need 150hp to enjoy British roads.
I think all bikes should be tested this way because the best liar of all is memory. But this way you have a direct accurate comparison immediately. Road, weather & time of day affect conditions. Well done! Great chirps too.
Thanks buddy 👍
Had the same experience as Gregario- first fifteen minutes .. yeah ok after an hour … wow and bought one. Agree with a lot of the criticisms though such as lack of backlit controls on such a premium bike.
Best review so far, really makes a lot of sense. Thank you.
Thanks Steve 👍
Not a lot in the power by looks of it. But clearly paying for the better R&D and changes they have built in to the 1300. 1250 clearly up there still. I personally like the more sporty look of the 13. Nice review chaps
Although these bike's are not my sort of thing I'd still be happy ending up with either of them in my garage.
They are obviously a firm favourite with a lot of people because you see so many of them on the road, which proves how good they must be.
Awesome comparison again Chops...love it ❤👍😊
Thanks Dean 👍
I put just over 5k miles on my 23 Ralley last summer and I loved every one of them. I like the new radar tech on the 1300 but it sounds like I don’t need to be in a big hurry to upgrade.
Fabulous comparison guys, just had my 1250 serviced today and seeing the 1300 in the flesh at the dealer I’m starting to like it (most common phrase for this new bike - “its growing on me” - applies). Looking forward to riding one soon and see if it tempts an upgrade
Thanks Mark appreciated buddy 👍 don't try it!! You will want one! 😄
…good old A272 then guys. 👍 all local to me. I’m sure the 1300 is in every way better, but is it a better GS… 1300 is steering slightly away from the ‘point’ of the gs maybe. Likely I’m completely wrong… looked cold out there, but great video. Many thanks.
Thanks buddy, yeah it was chilly! 🥶
Great review Chops and Greg, excellent comparison, cheers
Many thanks guys, great comparison video.
Thanks for watching! 👍👍
Top class review Chops and Gregorio! I like the compactness of the new 1300. I think for road only the RS will be a better option as it is now over the 1250!
Brilliant as always 👍
Thank you! Cheers!
I think my choice would be a used 1250, tweaked a little either via a tune or gearing for some extra bottom-range oomph. I'm not convinced that I'd fully appreciate the further niceties of the 1300.
Top vid as per, Chops 💖
Looking fwd to upgrading my 1250RS to the new 1300RS- great review chaps, you almost made me want to get one
tell me about the RS im interested in getting one
Enjoyed your ramble.
Perhaps an idea for a video would be how you clean your bike at this mucky time of year, your thoughts on ceramic coating versus alternative protection and how ACF50 fits into the schedule.
I did watch your earlier video on that product but what I’m suggesting is different, I think!
Love the review! You always make the best, thank you. I am waiting for a 1300 Tramuntana and am spooked about the recalls we have been hearing about and fire risk etc… any thoughts on this? Ducati V4sGT in play. 🙏
Bang on comment : “ the 1250 is vaguer on the steering than the 1300” Spot on. I found that to be the biggest difference. Having said that I hated the engine and gearbox noise of the 1300… not for me
Great vid gents and very informative!! Please do the same thing, but between the R1300 GS and the KTM 1290 SAS
Brilliant review 👏👍
Thank you! 👍
Chopsy, always liked your videos. But these duo reviews with grig.. your mate, are spot on. Maybe some international rides together could be a good thing mate.
Thanks buddy 👍
Bottom line summary, two very nice bikes, The new on just a little bit nicer.
If your contemplating a new bike, if you get a good deal on a 1250 it’s a great bike. Or you can pay the price and get the new one.
Chops is quite a bit taller than me, the ride height for pound sounds like a good option. I ride a standard GS I can flat foot but it’s definitely a big tall bike. I like it.
I am an easy sale, I ride a GS. I’m not looking for a new bike but when I do the GS is the most likely choice. Which one depends on my budget.
Do you think the new one will appeal more to riders who previously would have picked another style or brand. Over the previous GS?
Thanks for the test, you guys are a great duo. For me, the 1300 GS felt unnecessarily "sporty" or harsh and overall it seems it was made to be more approachable for short people. It's always good to get more people into riding, but then it's unfortunately the wrong kind of bike for me, 6'7" & 17.5 stone. I stick with the 1250 GSA
The GS is the bike I have no issues with and would recommend to many people looking for a touring bike if they’re on the taller side. I would just never consider one myself. I don’t have any interest in these big adventure bikes, but the Tiger and Multistrada are more my style. Doesn’t really matter because I’ll never spend $20k+ on a motorcycle again. I’d love to see Aprilia do a Taureg V4 though. It would be worth it for the soundtrack alone. Even if it was on a budget to keep the price down. Like a 2019 Tuono V4 on stilts
I've always preferred a motorcycle that you sit in rather than on. In my style of riding many of the differences only show up on paper. I've never felt the 1250 lacking in hp or torque. Quite the contrary. Gearbox wise I think the 1250 is the finest I've ever had. Very light clutch pull and smooth gear actuation. I don't even use the quick shifter. What I noticed about the 1300 is that it is marginally more flickable. I do really like the blind spot monitoring and hope something that can be added to virtually any bike. The adaptive cruise control is nice for those who use interstate roads for travel. I avoid them so I would probably never use it. Both great bikes. I'll keep my 1250.
I would like to add that the feeling of acceleration is slightly enhanced on motorcycles you sit on rather than in. The 1300 is, in reality, quicker than the 1250 but BMW knows that you can enhance that feeling by altering the geometry. It's just physics.
Great review guys, gives people a good idea in what to expect from both bikes.
Great side by side comparison, I have a 1250 adventure, it seems to me there isn’t enough difference to justify a change at this stage, I have owned many GS’s over the passed 17 years, the design of the new one, the size and look will certainly pull in a new generation of customers, however, your die hard GS owners may have a different opinion to be honest, is the 1250 the last of the true GS’s? I will be interested to see the new GSA though!
Bloody brilliant stuff ☘️😁 from northern Ireland really enjoyed this one 🤞 and looking forward to the rest of the year,, good honest reviews on our roads ☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️
Thanks Cecil 👍
I have a 1250 GSA with the same TFT and electronics and the bike has lived in dynamic or enduro pro mode for two years. Every thing else is just adding weight.
I love the video and totaly agree with Chopsie, the new bike is much better looking. I also miss the brilliant BMW adjustable suspension while riding. Now that I'm old I absolutely have to have heated grips, all the other gadgets take them or leave them
Superb vid. Thanks for the bants lads. 👌🎥🏍
Thanks Dave 👍
If I was going back to the GS I'd go for the 1250 due to the price of the 1300 and the deals available for the 1250.
Great video❤, price in the Netnerlands for the GS 1300 with all the extras cloxe to €35000.00😢😢
I stay with my GS R 1250 NP rally edition 2020😂
Great vid LCR
There’s 1250 bikes out there on 20 plates for 12k with low miles on them wouldn’t be paying a extra 10-13 for the 1300 tbh
Great comparison thanks 🙏
Great review from the Chops & Greg team .I Like both of the bikes , just a bit too pricey for my budget. Also I just can’t get over the boxer engine. I Will have to take one for a test ride , maybe to understand what makes them so popular. Till then the sports tourer will have to do .
Nothing wrong with a decent sports tourer Alan!! :-)
Looks like it has kept all the good points of GS but moved BMW towards the more dynamic multistrada and KTMs on the road, which makes sense. It will be interesting to see how off-road focussed the R1400GS is.
You had me there with “ get some thicker trousers “ 😂
😁👍
Great video Chopsie, looks like a decent step up from the 1250. I’ve just bought a new 2023 KTM 1290 super adventure R in December. £2k discount from KTM plus 4 year extended warranty. Also found a dealer chucking in a free Akrapovic worth £1300. I added the Tech pack as an extra and it was roughly the same price (fully loaded) as the entry level R1300gs so I decided to not even try the bimmer. Big step forward from my 1190r. Any chance you could review the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R instead of the S versus the GS? The suspension is now next level (non electric) and I think the bike often gets overlooked being marketed as being a bit more off road capable. It’s a proper monster of a thing, perfect for the rider carrying a bit more, ahem, baggage like me. 👍🏻
I love the direction BMW are headed with their range. As a R1200RT owner I was holding out for the new R1300RT that will inevitably arrive. However, as my local dealership is closing BMW as a brand for me are a non-starter for a new bike.
Other dealers do deliver though.
@@jonelvidge9191 That's great. Do they come and pick it up when it needs its yearly service as well.
Is yours Lind Norwich ? I’ve seen they are closing
@@jonelvidge9191 Yep, been a customer and BMW owner of one bike or another for a good few years now and although I don't mind travelling on my bike I don't want a days expedition just to get it serviced.
Nice comparison but I feel it comes down to price for most... almost 21.5k for a Triple Black TE + luggage (and that's without the fancy ride height or cruise control / blind spot which adds another 1.3k !!) when you can pick up an almost new 1250 TB TE + luggage for 16k...
I think it's also worth mentioning that the 1300 requires a new drive shaft replacement at the 30k service...not something bmw seem to be highlighting. Not an issue for those changing on pcps but if you arw buying it and do the miles that's a costly service at probably we'll over £1k 🤔
Where did you get that info from? I asked the dealer about this rumour and he said BMW suggests at 80k mileage a replacement of a bearing but not the whole drive shaft. This info was confirmed in a few places.
@@adinovak2352 my local UK dealer
@@adinovak2352 For the BMW R 1300 GS, BMW explicity recommends replacing the shaft every 36 000 miles / 60 000 km. This is quite a big job, but important preventative maintenance
The above is available on several websites which published the service schedule details. I am told its due to the known shaft issues they have had on the 1200 / 1250s which they have had to cover under warranty 😮
Thx for clarification. My dealer says sth different but the conclusion is that the shaft drive is not as eternal as many people claim :-D Anyway, today I have an appointment with the dealer and decided to place an order with 1250gs :-D The 1300gs doesn't cause butterflies in my stomach. Seems kind of metrosexual with its bald forehead :-D @@dazzer4220
I'll hang on for the 1550
Agree, and hunting for something with less electronic shittery, not a fan of mode a cycling
Hi Chops, how's your fantastic H2 these days, after the gut wrenching time when it was dropped last year, hope we see it on the channel sometime, still never seen one on the road to this day, only when launched I saw one at the Motorcycle show in Birmingham years ago, all the best old chap. 👍👍👍👍👍
Yeah still got it, deciding what to do with it this year... Might sell it, might just keep it on sorn or might get an MOT and use it.. Still undecided. Also depends what the insurance is, as everyone telling me things have shot up this year 🤷♂️
Love the GS briliant bike ❤😊 I’d take either if I had space in my garage lol.. my Guzzi takes pride of place 😊 ❤❤❤ Pete
Oh, you can definitely do track days.
Remember that 10 years ago you went to track days with sport bikes with LESS hp than this.
A GS in the twisty roads was ALWAYS good anyway.
Id like to see a comparison between a full spec TE and the more compact almost "super moto" version with just the dynamic pack.
What are your thoughts on the new 1300GS vs a Multistrada PP? Which would check more boxes and be more fun to live with?
Hi, Im from Malaysia. Thank you both of you for the ride review comparison. I just want to ask. Which one you will choose for your next ride?
Great video again chap's, did the Morestead rd today but I was in a car wow trees gone left right and centre and mud everywhere,glad I was in a car😅
Got a high standard of videos to keep up this year 👍👍
Yeah noticed the trees had been hacked down. Great road though! 👍
@@LambChopRides It was shut for them to clean up 40 odd trees after the storms!
Great road for super moto's 👍
@@LambChopRideslove these comparisons videos, do compare the Ninja 1000sx and GSXS 1000 GT, it will be epic.
Just traded my 2019 GS HP for a 2024 GS trophy
How easy to turn on and off heated grips. Would miss that button ?
Failure to backlight the switchgear and abandoning the rear brakelight,(a real safety issue for me) is a backward evolutionary step. There have been problems with the new plastic panniers. Love my 1250 GSA! Do I need more power? No Do I want to pay 5to 6k to upgrade? No. BMW might be a premium bike but the 1300 is definitely moving out of my price range.
I’d be interested to hear from BMW sales as to how many of these will go out on PCP and paid for outright.