@@Banditmanuk My first motorcycle was an 'adventure' bike, which was 49 years ago ... A Honda Z50A. It even ran without a battery, although the horn would stutter (rectified DC power) and change pitch according to the engine speed, and the lights would go dim when the engine idled, but I never rode it in the dark anyway. Why did I call it an adventure bike you may ask? ... My definition of adventure as a kid was simply going somewhere different each time I went for a ride :)
@@FFVoyager Yes, it can be a bit of a gamble. There's virtually no new bike that doesn't have some form of 'smarts' in the system (starting with EFI). As for long term parts availablity ... I fear that in time a lot of bikes will just end up getting scrapped. Having said that, I wonder what happened to my old TZ250 that I raced back in the 80s.
@@Jonathan-L Stuff like central locking on the panniers is a great example of stuff I can live without and tech I would be concerned about failing when out on tour. I'll no doubt be labeled a dinosaur.....
Absolutely less is more, a good strong engine, good brakes and good handling, speedo and rev counter at a sensible on the road price and you don't have to save up all year to pay the service department is all I ask for.... If manufacturers keep going like this they will be adding two more wheels and calling it a car😮
I am one of the minority, I prefer the looks of this version to the massive looks and feel of prior generations. For me, headlights always come down to function over fashion; how do they illuminate at night matters far more to me than any style points. I deeply appreciate the everyman reviews like this moreso than the "watch me interview the designer on the launch team" any day and that's on of the hallmark's of Andy's reviews. Quality information over quantity all day long.
Most people will prefer the looks, there's just a very loud minority that will find any venue to whine about how it looks. I love the new looks and the only issue I have is that BMW seems to not want to take this looks over to smaller bikes. The new 900GS looks almost exactly like a Honda.
Headlight- you’re totally correct on that one. I have a 1250GSA - I actually think it looks awkward, especially the headlight, but I focus on the way it rides - it’s the best bike I’ve ever owned. And the headlight looks really awkward, lol
@@TheMissendenFlyer I totally agree with the fact that nobody should be even remotely interested in what’s on their phone 📱 Just ride the bike, enjoy it , take it all in. Leave your phone in your pocket and live a little! Great review btw 👍🏾
Really useful real world test. Not sure many of us are overly interested in the spec sheets and those that are can easily find them online. Looks may grow over time - the previous asymmetric headlight was so iconic. That blank space is an issue for me though. Fantastic work as always, really looking forward to this series.
Andy said the magic words I have been waiting for a reviewer to say, aside from the looks, this GS is better than the outgoing model in every way. IMO people will get used to the looks and this motorcycle will continue to sell extremely well.
A great review Andy. Undoubtedly the best in the class for completeness. I'm not sold on the looks myself and Its funny that they can put lights in the panniers, but not in the switch gear. Its too expensive for me. A Tiger 900 would do the same job as it has done for you in Japan. I can see a new GS heading for the TMF fleet in the future
Three things, 1 go down Starbucks Saturday morning and ask some fellow GS riders how the hell everything works. 2 Read the instruction book and look on YT. Enjoy the features and learn them. Much safer that way. 3 Comment on the old GS, FOR SALE. Now when you get one opt for the centerstand and controller. It will save your shoulder. It has a self help rize feature similar to Harley and KTM. Yes, more items to go wrong but great when they are working. Presence on road. We have waited over forty years for a more powerful, compact and agile GS. We got it now. The new GS ADV will have presence form what I have seen. Safe riding. Be glad when the boss box arrives and get her take. Take care, safe rides.
I think the new bike is a huge improvement over the fugly pile of scaffolding that was the old bike. An effective headlight is a huge benefit to me when night riding, and great to see a really effective dip, as many bikes are good on main beam, but naff on dip. I couldn't live with that navigation screen though, both the night brightness and obscuring the view.
Having ridden 3 bikes with adaptive headlights, I'd never ride without one, at least on my primary machine. Such a huge difference on a twisty mountain road. Should be mandatory equipment on a bike. Much prefer the lighter weight of the new one-it's in the realm of a KTM. And like that they finally got rid of the asymmetric headlights, always made the GSs look lopsided, if easy to recognize.
Great review Andy! Re heated grips/seat and electric windshield, preselect the windshield from the hamburger menu as your default for the up/down button. If you then long press the hamburger button, it will bring up a heated grips/seat menu on the main TFT screen which can then be adjusted by the up/down button. After a few seconds this menu disappears leaving the up/down button to control the screen again. This avoids constantly having to reassign the up/down button.
That was a great first review Andy, and a good idea to concentrate on real world performance rather than spec sheets. I hope you can try the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio later in the year, it'd be interesting to hear your comparisons whilst you still have the GS.
Great review of what is no doubt going to be a best seller. But £23k and you don’t get a independent brake light, you have to ask yourself if the sub 800mm high brake indicator combo is safe why are cars and vans forced to have high level brake lights for safety reasons?
@@Cartsp70 You sound very angry, did you come home from work last night and find your mrs in bed with your best mate? I’ve ridden a GS1300 today, picked up my mates bike which has been repaired under warranty with a faulty starter solenoid, the weather was pants on the way home but the bike rides brilliantly which I never doubted. I’m still sticking with my opinion on the indicator brake light combo, I mean the top box has central locking, interior light but no independent brake light.
Thanks Andy. I can still remember when manufacturers in the late 80’s / early 90’s claimed about “anti dive” and then the claims disappeared. BMW, have just seemed to be the ones who stuck with it and ultimately mastered it. It’s a weird sensation when you aren’t used to it today. Definitely better from a pillion perspective. 👍😎🇦🇺
The anti dive was very crude and complicated. It linked the brake lines with the damping in the forks to lock out the damping. Mainly just an extra place for the forks or brakes to have an extra failure point.
I have ridden the GS1300 and found it good. I agree with previous comment below in that the light is great and function overrides the look, considering the great lights. Currently 34 celcius here in Christchurch New Zealand so sitting under the air conditioning. Max of 25 degrees more riding temperature
I currently ride a lowered 1250GS however nobody in the reviews seems to not cover how this new 1300 lowers itself at a standstill. Any chance you could do a video on this 👍🏼
Check out Nothing to Prove - he's done video on that subject but, yes, agree it needs covering in detail as it could be a key feature which may bring me back to GSs
Thanks for mentioning the frame-lowering feature in Nothing to Prove. I followed all the TH-cam reviews for the new R1300 GS. The frame-lowering feature is critical for me. All BMW needs now is to license Honda's DSC technology. I loved DSC on my Honda Goldwing Tourer.
Just to assist. If you hold down the "Hamburger" button for about a second, regardless of what you selected last time, the option to adjust the grips and seats comes up and you can adjust same with the rocker switch. If your last selection was say the screen, then that will adjust with just the rocker switch or it will adjust the last selected item. I hope that helps .................
I thought you would be impressed with the bike . The performance of any headlight,, not its looks, is the important aspect for me . The only development I feel BMW didn't do, was to make this new engine fully water cooled .A great first ride review Andy . Your new camera is fantastic.
Great vid as always and thanks for covering the luggage. For me it’s a touring bike and luggage is a daily feature. Changing from a tiger with expedition panniers / bags to a gs with vario luggage and bags I was surprised how much less the GS took. It’s unrealistic to take the whole panniers with you when you are far from your hotel as they have no straps / are cumbersome in 35 degree heat. If you can scrounge the bags from bmw I’d love to know their practicality (will they fit a 15” laptop when i’m away for months and want to edit my trip videos etc), do they lose a lot of the naked pannier size as awkward shape and any other real life touring experience. Cheers
Great review again on the GS and doing normal everyday riding and showing us an insight into the main aspects of the bike. Glad your on the mend, too, and able to get back on a bike. Take care and ride safe
Undoubtedly a beautiful bike. I like that you find it hard to fault, compared to the Honda Africa Twin that I recently tried which you were quite critical of. The surprising thing to me when I recently test rode an AT DCT is that found that hard to fault, immediately loving it. Like the GS the AT is a beautifully well engineered machine, but to my eyes the Honda is such a handsome bike and that gives it character. This demonstrates the importance of test riding them, because it's how a bike makes you feel that's important, and that's a personal thing.
I’ve put thousands of kilometers on an RT but only a few hundred on a GS. While I like the GS I bought an Africa Twin DCT and, after a serious bout of buyer’s remorse, grew to love it. For me, after 50+ years on many bikes, the Africa Twin is the best “all rounder” bike that I’ve ever owned.
Totally agree. Test rode a 1250 gs several times as they’re meant to be the best but every time I haven’t “loved it”. Tried a africa twin and I was sold in 5 minutes. Weird isn’t it?
@@UncleWally3 I too have been in the saddle for 50+ years, My Triple Black 1250 GS really the most complete, all round, bike I've ever owned.....but would be even better with DCT. It's a long way from my first ride - also black - a Norman Nippy! Take care.
I bought my 2023 GSA Rallye about 6 months ago, and I love it. Got a great reduced price OTD. The new GS's were just starting to come in. Test rode the new GS, and it is a great bike, but I wouldn't trade my GSA for it. Not for 5 hp increase! Don't really care for the adaptive cruise control. Standard is just fine. Too much electronic whiz bangs make for additional things that could go bad. Wish BMW would have addressed the switch lighting on the bars. Riding at night, my controls are pitch black. The Goldwing and the GSA are my 2 favorite bikes I've owned.
I’ve said it before, I love the fact that you do show what the lights are like at night. The lack of illuminated switch gear is a killer for me though. A high end bike with all those buttons and options should have switch illumination these days to match the competition. Not for me.
Yeah not sure that is a valid reason to dismiss a bike, you must do a lot of night riding, without street lights and also struggle to learn your controls.
The thing is, what % of riding at night will one be doing and what type of roads will you be riding at night? I've lived for 60 years without lighted switch gear and never had a problem after I learned where and how the controls work.
I goofed and watched this video after watching the 1200/1300 comparison. I’m 67 but do really like the technology, especially the blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. I’m still having a major issue with the visuals, although the side view is growing on me, especially with the panniers which are a good size. It will be interesting to see how it looks with the top box and what Mrs.Flyer thinks of the pillion position comfort. Looking forward to seeing the video for the upper screen, but the TFT is very impressive. Braking, fork dive and tire grip look great.
Well worth the wait for this superb review! In my opinion, definitely a good call waiting for the initial hype to bow out. A brilliant real-world honest account of day to day riding on this machine. The looks have obviously been divisive especially the front end, but now seeing that radar in action I dunno, the front makes more sense to me now, and therefore I think I’m warming to it. I am high on post-op codeine, though! Great to see you back in the saddle, sir, and thanks for this excellent down-to-earth review - I think many thousands of people are going to find it super-useful as they contemplate the move up from the older GSs, and also many many others who are considering the shift across to the BM. Great stuff!
Hi Andy. I tested one this weekend. Hugely impressed. Couldn’t get on with both 1000 and 1100 AT DCTs … the Tiger I bought doesn’t do it for me but this did. I’m 99% … need that push over the line … Looking forward to your next review. We are the same size and shape and auto lowering / rising on the GS was fabulous. Wind it on and it’s like a comfy sportsbike. Thanks for your great content. ( and thanks to Mrs Flyer too)
Hi Andy, this was the one I have been waiting for, a real world review, and you did not disappoint. There have been many detractors about GS's, and the people who own and ride them, generally the rider who opts for a GS has been there and done it and want's a bike that does everything really well, reliably. I know you are keen to replace your old GS, but do you think it may be wise also to consider the new GSA as a replacement when it comes out later this year, hopefully. It could have the best of both worlds being lighter than the old one, but having more road presence than the GS. Thank you.
High Andy. Thanks for the review, I like this GS more than previous models. For radar cruise controls you may like to try testing what the vehicle does when a) Speed is restricted by a vehicle in front and you change to adjacent empty lane and b) the opposite when your in an empty lane and you switch to a lane with a vehicle in front. The way bike applies power or brakes to adjust the speed on some marques is really unpredictable, sometimes near full throttle is applied to get back up to speed.
Yes there are some use cases where it isn’t great I agree, but in the main it’s brilliant (especially for resting my dodgy shoulders on long motorway runs)….
Its a shame that it doesn't have the adaptive ride height feature for you to try, i think that would be a great option. Hopefully your shoulder is getting better!
Sadly my shoulder is worse - I won't bore you with the details but I have another operation to go at least! BMW said they will lend me another with adaptive ride height to try so stay tuned!
Looks amazing. I know you won't get to ride this one off asphalt, but I am interested to see how the new model feels on green lanes/sand. Great review.
Let me be frank... After over 100 years BMW should know how to build their traditional model. However, still a clunky gearbox. You can now configure a button to act as the heated grip button... It all does not sound as progress. Quicker? If you are a responsible rider you know you can hardly use that power in today's traffic. Do not get me wrong, I am not knocking your review, you do a good job. I do knock the GS 1300 (and other modern bikes). I also understand the final drive unit will have to be replaced every 60.000 km, always under warranty. I did read that recently. Progress? A well maintained final drive used to last almost the life time of the bike. On my old Pan it was still OK after over 100.000 miles... I will never buy a new bike or car. I hate depreciation and I will not spend the money, so it is irrelevant to me personally. However... my (for me new) 2001 R1150RT has a clumsy gearbox and engine (the 'KFR' syndrome), yet it does have a heated grip button and a final drive that has to be well maintained, yet does not have to be mandatory replaced every 60.000 km. OK, it is not as frugal as the more modern boxer twin and the modern one runs better. But still, I only paid 2700 EUR for a 1 owner, full service history RT... I can buy a lot of petrol and fund a lot of maintenance for the money I did not spend on purchasing the bike... However I do envy the green and gold color scheme, that is really beautiful in my eyes. Much more so than my silver RT! All the best with your shoulder.
Not really likely to be a GS owner owner new or otherwise but thoroughly enjoyed your review. The bike 'lugging' element is always interesting and missed by most testers apart from Freddy's hilarious efforts to show a bikes lean angle . Amazed at the modern tech on bikes now. Cheers
Tks Mr Flyer for the usual first time rider video, presented in layman terms. Still not convinced of the front view, but the rest looks an improvement. My only concern for BMW would be, have they done enough to bring more riders to their brand from others, also is it good enough for present GS owners to upgrade when ready. Also, with reference to the adaptive cruise control, which is one 'toy' I think is useful, would be on the 'odd' occasion you get the inconsiderate driver who overtakes, then 'cuts' you up, slows down as they 'forget' they need to exit the road at this junction, causing you to do an 'emergency' stop, which is frightening enough in a car/HGV, so on a bike could be underpant changing. Just something to be aware of, especially when using it on dual carriageways and motorways.
Hi Andy, thought you’d love it, as soon as I saw one in the flesh at my dealer I bought one. Anyway the hamburger button - you got it wrong so far. Have it set for the screen, then long press on the button allows you to access (in my case) heated grips and heated seat to alter the settings with the whizz wheel, no faff, very quick and easy so the hamburger button alone can change 3 things, it’s very good. I agree with you on everything else it is a fantastic bike.
You could really hear the difference in wind noise when you lowered the screen and raised it again. Informative video, and always like location spotting on what were my local roads back in the day.
Great great review. I agree on the buttons, for me anything that I need to change while going down the road should have a button versus a menu selection. Great information to pass along, thank you so much for now I will hold on to my 1250 and see how things work out with the 1300.
The clunky gearbox/quick shifter is probably a function of shaft drive, there will be a lot of inertia on the output shaft of the gearbox due to the weight of the spinning shaft and universal joints and the very direct nature of the bevel gear at the wheel end, a chain and sprocket has some natural slack both on cessation of drive and when the new gear engages
A great first impressions review. As someone who didn't like the looks of the outgoing GS, I really like the new look, your new camera was fantastic, especially the night time headlight shots, it was nice to see the train station car park again, but please take it easy on your shoulder for a while. I think the front cruise radar plastics looks the perfect location for a TMF sticker, available online now. 😀
Great review Andy covering the stuff we want to know. I’ve recently chopped in my 1250 GS for an adventure. I’d seen the new 1300 but wasn’t convinced on the looks or the apparent reduction in physical size. Look as if it wouldn’t accommodate rider and pillion as well as my GS. I will get a test ride at some point. Thing that strikes me every time I see one is the way it doesn’t appear to have a cockpit The TFT and Nav prep just seem stacked up in front of you. I think I’d prefer the winglets at the side to be solid rather than transparent. Think this would also go some way to giving the bike a bit more presence like the old model. Mind you, I’ve a GSA and that looks like there’s a house coming down the road at you.
I was looking to buy a 1250 gsa but when I heard the 1300 was coming out I decided to wait. Since I ll be keeping the bike for years, I am 99% sure of getting the new 1300. Just waiting for it to come to USA and do a test ride. Thanks for the video..
Well done, Sir. Bravo. Overall a very good review and I will await to see/hear more about this all new R1300GS. I will add that perhaps the all new R1300GSA will have a larger road presence. Me personally, I always liked the GS looks over the GSA for their R1200/1250 series.
One thing that BMW always does well is ergonomics and yet again they haven't disappointed. I love the colour display and the efficient way BMW uses the colours (the coolant temperature controlled variable red line for example). I also love the command wheel and the placing of the switch gear. As to the engine: they keep being committed to make that boxer the best it can be and personally I think that's just great. The icing on the cake for me is that BMW proprietary navigation unit, that seamlessly integrates with the bike to become both a navigation screen and an extended system screen that adds to what the main screen displays. Yet again a very nice review Andy. It's always a pleasure to see and hear a real-life review of a bike. I love how you keep your fact and your opinions clearly separated.
In the 70’s, cars had a single stalk poking out the left of the steering column and you moved it up and down to turn your ‘winkers’ on, it sometimes had a button on the end which activated the horn. Remember? It wasn’t back lit. Modern cars have now got several stalks with all manner of functions and actions to use them, you may have experienced this? Can’t say these are back lit on some pretty high end cars, which are all very dark in the cabin at night, and the stalks may be obscured by the steering wheel. Yet we can all control things accurately, without looking at them. By the same token, never had a problem on a bike, and as you keep reminding us on BMW tests, the controls are copy and paste off other models and therefore very familiar.
The radar cruise control is a bit of a double edged sword. I test road for about an hour or so before returning the bike to the dealer and specced up my GS for March delivery... I didn't get the radar for 2 reasons:- 1) I'm sure it might have the effect of making me lazy...2) On the test ride when the car in front in a 30 mph stretch, indicated right on a sharpish left hand bend, but with plenty of room for me to pass on the left, the bike decided to slow dramatically. I'm not sure but I believe it braked too.. whilst I was leaning into the left hander..the inevitable tailgating car driver only just avoided ramming me. I also needed to change down to be able to pull away. Electronic Sensors are all well and good but they don't know everything. Can't wait for the GS 1300 to arrive though...I particularly like the dynamic chassis sinking down when you slow down so you can flat foot. I thought the quick shifter better than my old 1250GS
Hamburger button. I haven’t got my bike yet but I understood that you can set the two main functions of your choice. One quick press to go to the first choice, indicated by the dot to the left and a long press to go to the second choice, indicated by the hamburger symbol to the right.
Cheers Andy .. a real world review. Interesting .. all the talk of weight loss and you don’t notice much difference moving it around. A potential selling point for me for the future.
Th reason the gearbox is clunky is because it is wider ratio than a typical sport bike. That means that there is MUCH more differential speed in the gearbox at the point where the transmission has to jump to the next gear. The inertia of the engine then abruptly causes a surge in torque and the clunk and surge feel. All the good sport bikes have incredibly close ratio transmissions, so there is almost no difference in engine rpm between gears. This makes for smooth shifts at the expense of having high revs at cruising speed and a lot of clutch slipping to take off. That's fine and good on a track, beneficial even. For a touring bike, I would rather have a wide ratio gearbox and deal with the clunk or use the clutch to smooth the ratio change.
Its funny, like many, I didn’t like the looks at first, but it’s been a few months since the release, I’ve seen some bikes in the flesh and as you say it is better than pictures suggest. Problem is there’s no way I could put that in my garage, walk away and look back at it without feeling slightly ill. Whatever anyone says, looks matter, and if you’re buying this particular version, at £26,000 including luggage, you’d jolly well better like the looks! I hope this trend of ever more eye watering prices falls off a cliff soon - even on PCP these must start to be unaffordable. I dread to think what the balloon payment will be. Thank goodness there’s a thriving low and midrange sector with some great bikes. A great in depth review covering some aspects I’ve not heard of in other reviews, and yes the camera looked excellent. Well done and keep the high quality content coming!
We agree on many design/ride preferences. I rode my Guzzi home yesterday. My first impression is positive though I was limited by weather that resembles your conditions. Spring cannot arrive soon enough for me. Be careful with your shoulder, Andy.
I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing your final review as you gain more knowledge and mileage on the new GS. At the end of your long term ownership, and Mrs Flyer has had a good amount of pillion time as well, whether or not it impresses both of you enough to consider upgrading your current GS to the new one.
I prefer this green colour version, I am hoping my wife and kids have got me one for my birthday tomorrow. Always half fancied a GS, this new model takes it up to 65% desirability. Fingers crossed for tomorrow morning. Bloody hell that headlight is fantastic
Just traded in my 2023 S1000XR for this bike. The quick-shifter on the XR is silky-smooth; the GS shifter is swinging a sledge hammer at a brick wall. Brakes on the XR are much more capable than the GS. Everything else... technology, anti-dive, comfort, torque... is why I now drive this bike 🤪
Personally I find the "tractorness" of the gear shifting one of my favorite parts of the R bikes. The "clunk" more clearly tells you you are in gear and good to go. It's a personality of the bike that I would truly miss if they engineered out of it. Hope you find a 'dark mode' or brightness for the nav screen at nigh.
A great, practical review, Mr Flyer. When you're doing the Connectivity Gizmo review, it would be great to see how much the TFT menus have changed from the 1250. Enjoy your time on the bike!
I like to wrap my shoulders with an ace bandage, knees also. We see all those professional athletes all taped up. It works for us too, talk to a physical therapist how to do it
What a pity Andy that you have fallen into the trap of the ubiquitous TH-cam 'influencer' to label your first ride review 'honest'....we know that you always provide genuine information; no need to add 'honest'. We know you are.
Not a GS fanboy (nothing against it) ride a R1250RS myself, personally I preferred this version from the get go and don't have a problem with headlight. Not in the least surprised that it's excellent, there's no way BMW would launch it if it wasn't. Great review as always
I’ve had all that BMW could offer but have gone back in technology with a triumph Bonneville and a 2003 Honda pan European and I have not missed any of the technology that I had and my bank balance has gained a lot of weight as a consequence
It was the Same reg number as the bike in this video so I presumed it was 👍. The bike looked great, I will watch your reviews with interest. I’m sort of waiting for the GS Adventure
Good report, Andy. As you know too well by now, not my kind of machine but this certainly appears to cover a broad and comprehensive overview for those contemplating this bike.
I believe the reason for BMW boxers to traditionally have clunky gear changes is the basic layout of the engine, clutch & gear box. The clutch is between the engine & gearbox like in a car. The clutch is mounted on the crankshaft & rotates at engine speed which requires an exceptionally precise matching of RPM to MPH to achieve a smooth gear change. On most other bikes with a more conventional layout the clutch is after the gearbox, and it is far easier to achieve a smooth gear change as the clutch is ‘remote’ from engine speed. As BMW have reconfigured the1300 boxer engine with the gearbox in a new position in relation to the engine I don’t know if this still applies?
I've been waiting for this Andy and you did not disappoint, thankyou. For someone who's never ridden a GS (I'm more an FJR man), I think it is time to take a test ride. Cheers.
For reference, I just viewed an older TMF video (2019 BMW R1250GS Rallye - Touring Review) a five year old video by now, What a difference in the way the looks of a new GS is described compared to today. TMF then said "what an absolutely beautiful machine". With the new 1300 the statements are more like " I am struggling to like the looks of it. I couldn't agree more.
In typical BMW fashion, they tweaked what they have rather than doing anything radical which I can appreciate. Design wise they cleaned up the lines and dash. Mechanically, they refreshed everything to bring it up to a more modern standard. I don't really see how it's any bigger of a leap than say the 1200 to the 1250.
Great review Andy as usual. The looks for a lot of people are like marmite at the moment but with all the bike reviews I watch on TH-cam, reviewers comments depend on your physical size and how you like to ride a bike. I have a high mileage 1250 gsa, brill bike, pulls like a tractor from no revs which leads to very relaxed riding style and I use it to 2up quite a lot. The new 1300 has fantastic torque and is great to ride. I’m also fortunate to own an XR. When I come back from a spin on that, it certainly puts a grin on your face and I think the 1300 is heading that direction having ridden it. The XR, the Multistrada require a little more gear changing but I think that adds to the fun element plus they both have a proper quickshifter so the riding experience is different. It just depends what you want. Also,you still have to get to 2nd or 3rd on the 1300 before the gearshift works really well. At 6’3 the bike is a little small for me but perfectly suited to you. I just hope BMW use a different size frame and just don’t jack up the 1300 on higher suspension to become a GSA. I also noticed on TH-cam that if you want to fit SW Motech aluminium boxes you have to remove the electronic bits that the BMW luggage clips into and it affects the looks at the back of the bike. It looks great with the new BMW luggage and is an ideal ‘ adventure touring bike ‘,as that’s how it will be used by 95% owners. The luggage looks nearly like what you get on an RT which which begs the question, with suspension lowering on the 1300 why buy an RT in the future 😳 It’s interesting the route BMW has taken with the bike.
My brother in law has a degree in Engineering & he's very skeptical of the GS' shaft drive, says most GS owners only keep them a couple of years & the splines start wearing out shortly after 2 years. We could do with having a real long long term test. I'm skeptical of Dave's skepticism myself - back in the day I heard nothing but good about shafties. Be interesting to see who's right.
It’s been a while and a 1250 GSA no longer features in my little pic, it’s been replaced with a caravan towing beast but yes I still love the BMWs and I’m still thinking I’ll be back on a bike one day, maybe a GSA, maybe an RT or would a GT 1600 work for me and then there’s the Goldwing, I am getting older after all 😁 One thing that hasn’t changed is your top notch reviews. Thank you and much regard from somewhere in Australia.
You know you’re going to pull the trigger on a new GS 👍🏻 I take it people know that the EU changed construction and Use regs which now means all bike headlights must be symmetrical. The days of offset lights like an old F800r and early GS’s have now gone.
As someone who is interested in buying a GS I found this to be very helpful for real world life, thank you for the time and effort it takes, it is appreciated. I am trying to decide if a winter bike and a summer fun bike are the way to go or go the one bike does all route which is what I expect this version of the GS to be. I was not a massive fan of the 1250 but interested to try a 1300. With that one bike for all in mind, I’d be interested in a very dull but rather important ownership reality. What is this version of the GS like to keep clean? A quick wash down to get rid of the worst of the salt and a more in depth clean? Any thoughts on this would be really appreciated. I do not tend to comment but I do like your content so just want to say thank you while I am here. I wish you well with the shoulder recovery.
There is no mention of price. Especially once you add crash bars, spots and top box. Not sure about the hand guards having built in indicators, no doubt if u drop it, expensive fix. Try changing the heat grips at night when switching is not lit. Disappointed. Still not sold on the looks. The difference is not so big that i would consider trading in my 23 GSA1250. Great review.
Love how practical and honest you are. You represent the real man. Thanks again Andy.
I appreciate that!
Don't understand why folks think more complex electros are good, especially on a bike. Guess I'm just olde fashioned, or old anyway....
Spark plugs, lights & horn are all I need :)
@@Banditmanuk My first motorcycle was an 'adventure' bike, which was 49 years ago ... A Honda Z50A. It even ran without a battery, although the horn would stutter (rectified DC power) and change pitch according to the engine speed, and the lights would go dim when the engine idled, but I never rode it in the dark anyway. Why did I call it an adventure bike you may ask? ... My definition of adventure as a kid was simply going somewhere different each time I went for a ride :)
@@FFVoyager Yes, it can be a bit of a gamble. There's virtually no new bike that doesn't have some form of 'smarts' in the system (starting with EFI). As for long term parts availablity ... I fear that in time a lot of bikes will just end up getting scrapped. Having said that, I wonder what happened to my old TZ250 that I raced back in the 80s.
@@Jonathan-L Stuff like central locking on the panniers is a great example of stuff I can live without and tech I would be concerned about failing when out on tour.
I'll no doubt be labeled a dinosaur.....
Absolutely less is more, a good strong engine, good brakes and good handling, speedo and rev counter at a sensible on the road price and you don't have to save up all year to pay the service department is all I ask for.... If manufacturers keep going like this they will be adding two more wheels and calling it a car😮
I am one of the minority, I prefer the looks of this version to the massive looks and feel of prior generations. For me, headlights always come down to function over fashion; how do they illuminate at night matters far more to me than any style points. I deeply appreciate the everyman reviews like this moreso than the "watch me interview the designer on the launch team" any day and that's on of the hallmark's of Andy's reviews. Quality information over quantity all day long.
Wow thank you
Most people will prefer the looks, there's just a very loud minority that will find any venue to whine about how it looks. I love the new looks and the only issue I have is that BMW seems to not want to take this looks over to smaller bikes. The new 900GS looks almost exactly like a Honda.
@@simulacraeI’d suggest the 900 looks more like a Tenere 700 to me!
Headlight- you’re totally correct on that one. I have a 1250GSA - I actually think it looks awkward, especially the headlight, but I focus on the way it rides - it’s the best bike I’ve ever owned. And the headlight looks really awkward, lol
@@TheMissendenFlyer I totally agree with the fact that nobody should be even remotely interested in what’s on their phone 📱 Just ride the bike, enjoy it , take it all in. Leave your phone in your pocket and live a little! Great review btw 👍🏾
Really useful real world test. Not sure many of us are overly interested in the spec sheets and those that are can easily find them online. Looks may grow over time - the previous asymmetric headlight was so iconic. That blank space is an issue for me though. Fantastic work as always, really looking forward to this series.
Thank you!
Andy said the magic words I have been waiting for a reviewer to say, aside from the looks, this GS is better than the outgoing model in every way. IMO people will get used to the looks and this motorcycle will continue to sell extremely well.
This is why I love your channel, Andy. You do REAL riding, what all of us do 90% of the time. It makes for way more relevant reviews.
I'm glad you think that - I try and point out the things that are important to me as a "normal" rider...
Hear, hear!
A great review Andy. Undoubtedly the best in the class for completeness. I'm not sold on the looks myself and Its funny that they can put lights in the panniers, but not in the switch gear. Its too expensive for me. A Tiger 900 would do the same job as it has done for you in Japan. I can see a new GS heading for the TMF fleet in the future
Three things, 1 go down Starbucks Saturday morning and ask some fellow GS riders how the hell everything works. 2 Read the instruction book and look on YT. Enjoy the features and learn them. Much safer that way. 3 Comment on the old GS, FOR SALE. Now when you get one opt for the centerstand and controller. It will save your shoulder. It has a self help rize feature similar to Harley and KTM. Yes, more items to go wrong but great when they are working. Presence on road. We have waited over forty years for a more powerful, compact and agile GS. We got it now. The new GS ADV will have presence form what I have seen. Safe riding. Be glad when the boss box arrives and get her take. Take care, safe rides.
I think the new bike is a huge improvement over the fugly pile of scaffolding that was the old bike. An effective headlight is a huge benefit to me when night riding, and great to see a really effective dip, as many bikes are good on main beam, but naff on dip. I couldn't live with that navigation screen though, both the night brightness and obscuring the view.
Having ridden 3 bikes with adaptive headlights, I'd never ride without one, at least on my primary machine. Such a huge difference on a twisty mountain road. Should be mandatory equipment on a bike. Much prefer the lighter weight of the new one-it's in the realm of a KTM. And like that they finally got rid of the asymmetric headlights, always made the GSs look lopsided, if easy to recognize.
Great review Andy! Re heated grips/seat and electric windshield, preselect the windshield from the hamburger menu as your default for the up/down button. If you then long press the hamburger button, it will bring up a heated grips/seat menu on the main TFT screen which can then be adjusted by the up/down button. After a few seconds this menu disappears leaving the up/down button to control the screen again. This avoids constantly having to reassign the up/down button.
I must look into that!
That was a great first review Andy, and a good idea to concentrate on real world performance rather than spec sheets. I hope you can try the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio later in the year, it'd be interesting to hear your comparisons whilst you still have the GS.
Programmable button: Short press up or down to adjust the windscreen, long press to put heating grips on and off. It's still easy to use.
I find it a faff!
Great review of what is no doubt going to be a best seller.
But £23k and you don’t get a independent brake light, you have to ask yourself if the sub 800mm high brake indicator combo is safe why are cars and vans forced to have high level brake lights for safety reasons?
Have you actually ridden the bike? I doubt it, try leaving the house and go ride it .. then comment 👍🏾
@@Cartsp70
You sound very angry, did you come home from work last night and find your mrs in bed with your best mate?
I’ve ridden a GS1300 today, picked up my mates bike which has been repaired under warranty with a faulty starter solenoid, the weather was pants on the way home but the bike rides brilliantly which I never doubted.
I’m still sticking with my opinion on the indicator brake light combo, I mean the top box has central locking, interior light but no independent brake light.
@@ticthedog6095 oh well 🤷🏾
Hi… regarding the sat nav brightness, go into settings & select auto. It should then switch to night mode without blinding you 👍
It’s set in auto already!
Thanks Andy. I can still remember when manufacturers in the late 80’s / early 90’s claimed about “anti dive” and then the claims disappeared. BMW, have just seemed to be the ones who stuck with it and ultimately mastered it. It’s a weird sensation when you aren’t used to it today. Definitely better from a pillion perspective. 👍😎🇦🇺
The anti dive was very crude and complicated. It linked the brake lines with the damping in the forks to lock out the damping. Mainly just an extra place for the forks or brakes to have an extra failure point.
Thank you for showing us wet road riding. It looks safe with hard braking.
I have ridden the GS1300 and found it good. I agree with previous comment below in that the light is great and function overrides the look, considering the great lights. Currently 34 celcius here in Christchurch New Zealand so sitting under the air conditioning. Max of 25 degrees more riding temperature
Nice….
I currently ride a lowered 1250GS however nobody in the reviews seems to not cover how this new 1300 lowers itself at a standstill. Any chance you could do a video on this 👍🏼
Check out Nothing to Prove - he's done video on that subject but, yes, agree it needs covering in detail as it could be a key feature which may bring me back to GSs
Yes, height factors is an issue for me too. Also, keep track of pettol use in US gallins too! Great job!
Thanks for mentioning the frame-lowering feature in Nothing to Prove. I followed all the TH-cam reviews for the new R1300 GS. The frame-lowering feature is critical for me. All BMW needs now is to license Honda's DSC technology. I loved DSC on my Honda Goldwing Tourer.
Just to assist. If you hold down the "Hamburger" button for about a second, regardless of what you selected last time, the option to adjust the grips and seats comes up and you can adjust same with the rocker switch. If your last selection was say the screen, then that will adjust with just the rocker switch or it will adjust the last selected item. I hope that helps .................
Yes I’ve got the hang of it now - still would prefer dedicated buttons for grip heat but I completely get why BMW has had to go this route…
I thought you would be impressed with the bike . The performance of any headlight,, not its looks, is the important aspect for me . The only development I feel BMW didn't do, was to make this new engine fully water cooled .A great first ride review Andy . Your new camera is fantastic.
Thank you!
Great review as always. I just ordered one. Same colour but not the gold wheels as I'm nowhere near as tidy with my bikes as you are! 😉
Like the blind spot light in the mirror on the motorway and love the colour
Great vid as always and thanks for covering the luggage.
For me it’s a touring bike and luggage is a daily feature. Changing from a tiger with expedition panniers / bags to a gs with vario luggage and bags I was surprised how much less the GS took. It’s unrealistic to take the whole panniers with you when you are far from your hotel as they have no straps / are cumbersome in 35 degree heat. If you can scrounge the bags from bmw I’d love to know their practicality (will they fit a 15” laptop when i’m away for months and want to edit my trip videos etc), do they lose a lot of the naked pannier size as awkward shape and any other real life touring experience. Cheers
Great review again on the GS and doing normal everyday riding and showing us an insight into the main aspects of the bike. Glad your on the mend, too, and able to get back on a bike. Take care and ride safe
Undoubtedly a beautiful bike. I like that you find it hard to fault, compared to the Honda Africa Twin that I recently tried which you were quite critical of. The surprising thing to me when I recently test rode an AT DCT is that found that hard to fault, immediately loving it. Like the GS the AT is a beautifully well engineered machine, but to my eyes the Honda is such a handsome bike and that gives it character. This demonstrates the importance of test riding them, because it's how a bike makes you feel that's important, and that's a personal thing.
I think the AT is the best looking Adv Bike out there, the front end is badass and the bike just looks ready to take on anything.
I’ve put thousands of kilometers on an RT but only a few hundred on a GS. While I like the GS I bought an Africa Twin DCT and, after a serious bout of buyer’s remorse, grew to love it. For me, after 50+ years on many bikes, the Africa Twin is the best “all rounder” bike that I’ve ever owned.
Totally agree. Test rode a 1250 gs several times as they’re meant to be the best but every time I haven’t “loved it”. Tried a africa twin and I was sold in 5 minutes. Weird isn’t it?
@@chrishall734 Agreed. I also agreed with Richy Vida, and so impressed by the AT I just bought a brand new one.
@@UncleWally3 I too have been in the saddle for 50+ years, My Triple Black 1250 GS really the most complete, all round, bike I've ever owned.....but would be even better with DCT. It's a long way from my first ride - also black - a Norman Nippy! Take care.
I bought my 2023 GSA Rallye about 6 months ago, and I love it. Got a great reduced price OTD. The new GS's were just starting to come in. Test rode the new GS, and it is a great bike, but I wouldn't trade my GSA for it. Not for 5 hp increase! Don't really care for the adaptive cruise control. Standard is just fine. Too much electronic whiz bangs make for additional things that could go bad. Wish BMW would have addressed the switch lighting on the bars. Riding at night, my controls are pitch black. The Goldwing and the GSA are my 2 favorite bikes I've owned.
Yes you have two of the best!
I’ve said it before, I love the fact that you do show what the lights are like at night. The lack of illuminated switch gear is a killer for me though. A high end bike with all those buttons and options should have switch illumination these days to match the competition. Not for me.
I ride a lot at night and can remember where all my controls are by touch and muscle memory. Maybe the backlit switchgear is made for novices.
Yeah not sure that is a valid reason to dismiss a bike, you must do a lot of night riding, without street lights and also struggle to learn your controls.
The thing is, what % of riding at night will one be doing and what type of roads will you be riding at night? I've lived for 60 years without lighted switch gear and never had a problem after I learned where and how the controls work.
I goofed and watched this video after watching the 1200/1300 comparison. I’m 67 but do really like the technology, especially the blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. I’m still having a major issue with the visuals, although the side view is growing on me, especially with the panniers which are a good size. It will be interesting to see how it looks with the top box and what Mrs.Flyer thinks of the pillion position comfort. Looking forward to seeing the video for the upper screen, but the TFT is very impressive. Braking, fork dive and tire grip look great.
Well worth the wait for this superb review! In my opinion, definitely a good call waiting for the initial hype to bow out. A brilliant real-world honest account of day to day riding on this machine. The looks have obviously been divisive especially the front end, but now seeing that radar in action I dunno, the front makes more sense to me now, and therefore I think I’m warming to it. I am high on post-op codeine, though! Great to see you back in the saddle, sir, and thanks for this excellent down-to-earth review - I think many thousands of people are going to find it super-useful as they contemplate the move up from the older GSs, and also many many others who are considering the shift across to the BM. Great stuff!
Cheers Jez - hope you’re off the codeine soon (I hated that stuff!)
Hi Andy. I tested one this weekend. Hugely impressed. Couldn’t get on with both 1000 and 1100 AT DCTs … the Tiger I bought doesn’t do it for me but this did. I’m 99% … need that push over the line … Looking forward to your next review. We are the same size and shape and auto lowering / rising on the GS was fabulous. Wind it on and it’s like a comfy sportsbike. Thanks for your great content. ( and thanks to Mrs Flyer too)
Our pleasure Andrew - thank you for watching!
Hi Andy, this was the one I have been waiting for, a real world review, and you did not disappoint. There have been many detractors about GS's, and the people who own and ride them, generally the rider who opts for a GS has been there and done it and want's a bike that does everything really well, reliably. I know you are keen to replace your old GS, but do you think it may be wise also to consider the new GSA as a replacement when it comes out later this year, hopefully. It could have the best of both worlds being lighter than the old one, but having more road presence than the GS. Thank you.
Indeed I do!
High Andy. Thanks for the review, I like this GS more than previous models. For radar cruise controls you may like to try testing what the vehicle does when a) Speed is restricted by a vehicle in front and you change to adjacent empty lane and b) the opposite when your in an empty lane and you switch to a lane with a vehicle in front. The way bike applies power or brakes to adjust the speed on some marques is really unpredictable, sometimes near full throttle is applied to get back up to speed.
Yes there are some use cases where it isn’t great I agree, but in the main it’s brilliant (especially for resting my dodgy shoulders on long motorway runs)….
Its a shame that it doesn't have the adaptive ride height feature for you to try, i think that would be a great option. Hopefully your shoulder is getting better!
Sadly my shoulder is worse - I won't bore you with the details but I have another operation to go at least! BMW said they will lend me another with adaptive ride height to try so stay tuned!
Only the vertically challenged would want that feature normal size folk couldn’t care less
I agree as I bought a lowered suspension 1250 last year and i’m really interested in a comparison to the uppydowny auto thing at junctions.
Good review as all ways , to my eye i think its better looking than its predecessors sleeker and more purposeful .
Looks amazing. I know you won't get to ride this one off asphalt, but I am interested to see how the new model feels on green lanes/sand. Great review.
"This road is hideous", do you not watch Itchy Boots 😂
I don't. I gave up when she began putting up clickbait titles.
I find "One Man One Bike" a way better channel.
10:11 He was probably worried for a sec there. Yeah great bike, I even love the dark forest green. 🌲🏁
Let me be frank... After over 100 years BMW should know how to build their traditional model. However, still a clunky gearbox. You can now configure a button to act as the heated grip button... It all does not sound as progress. Quicker? If you are a responsible rider you know you can hardly use that power in today's traffic. Do not get me wrong, I am not knocking your review, you do a good job. I do knock the GS 1300 (and other modern bikes). I also understand the final drive unit will have to be replaced every 60.000 km, always under warranty. I did read that recently. Progress? A well maintained final drive used to last almost the life time of the bike. On my old Pan it was still OK after over 100.000 miles...
I will never buy a new bike or car. I hate depreciation and I will not spend the money, so it is irrelevant to me personally. However... my (for me new) 2001 R1150RT has a clumsy gearbox and engine (the 'KFR' syndrome), yet it does have a heated grip button and a final drive that has to be well maintained, yet does not have to be mandatory replaced every 60.000 km. OK, it is not as frugal as the more modern boxer twin and the modern one runs better. But still, I only paid 2700 EUR for a 1 owner, full service history RT... I can buy a lot of petrol and fund a lot of maintenance for the money I did not spend on purchasing the bike... However I do envy the green and gold color scheme, that is really beautiful in my eyes. Much more so than my silver RT! All the best with your shoulder.
Well said.
Wow! I’ve been waiting a long time for this one! So glad to tune in to hear your assessment.
Good approach on the review. No spec coverage, just straight to riding. Love the white van sarcasm.
The night camera worked a treat. Spot on!
Good wasn’t it!
Not really likely to be a GS owner owner new or otherwise but thoroughly enjoyed your review. The bike 'lugging' element is always interesting and missed by most testers apart from Freddy's hilarious efforts to show a bikes lean angle . Amazed at the modern tech on bikes now. Cheers
Yes I like Freddies lean angle test too - got disaster written all over it!!! Great fun to watch....
Although not a GS fan, for me the new ones greatest asset is it looks nothing like the old one.
Tks Mr Flyer for the usual first time rider video, presented in layman terms. Still not convinced of the front view, but the rest looks an improvement. My only concern for BMW would be, have they done enough to bring more riders to their brand from others, also is it good enough for present GS owners to upgrade when ready. Also, with reference to the adaptive cruise control, which is one 'toy' I think is useful, would be on the 'odd' occasion you get the inconsiderate driver who overtakes, then 'cuts' you up, slows down as they 'forget' they need to exit the road at this junction, causing you to do an 'emergency' stop, which is frightening enough in a car/HGV, so on a bike could be underpant changing. Just something to be aware of, especially when using it on dual carriageways and motorways.
Hi Andy, thought you’d love it, as soon as I saw one in the flesh at my dealer I bought one. Anyway the hamburger button - you got it wrong so far. Have it set for the screen, then long press on the button allows you to access (in my case) heated grips and heated seat to alter the settings with the whizz wheel, no faff, very quick and easy so the hamburger button alone can change 3 things, it’s very good. I agree with you on everything else it is a fantastic bike.
Yes I’m still getting used to how that works…
That top screen is really bright TMF, you are right!
You could really hear the difference in wind noise when you lowered the screen and raised it again. Informative video, and always like location spotting on what were my local roads back in the day.
This has got to be one of the best bike reviews I’ve ever seen
Nice and refreshing to watch
Wow, thanks!
Great great review. I agree on the buttons, for me anything that I need to change while going down the road should have a button versus a menu selection. Great information to pass along, thank you so much for now I will hold on to my 1250 and see how things work out with the 1300.
I'm liking your new camera, especially the night shots.
Looks like a winner! Looking forward to your ConnectedRide Navigator review.
Coming soon!
The clunky gearbox/quick shifter is probably a function of shaft drive, there will be a lot of inertia on the output shaft of the gearbox due to the weight of the spinning shaft and universal joints and the very direct nature of the bevel gear at the wheel end, a chain and sprocket has some natural slack both on cessation of drive and when the new gear engages
A great first impressions review. As someone who didn't like the looks of the outgoing GS, I really like the new look, your new camera was fantastic, especially the night time headlight shots, it was nice to see the train station car park again, but please take it easy on your shoulder for a while. I think the front cruise radar plastics looks the perfect location for a TMF sticker, available online now. 😀
I tried a sticker on there earlier - it fell off!!
Great review Andy covering the stuff we want to know.
I’ve recently chopped in my 1250 GS for an adventure. I’d seen the new 1300 but wasn’t convinced on the looks or the apparent reduction in physical size. Look as if it wouldn’t accommodate rider and pillion as well as my GS.
I will get a test ride at some point. Thing that strikes me every time I see one is the way it doesn’t appear to have a cockpit The TFT and Nav prep just seem stacked up in front of you. I think I’d prefer the winglets at the side to be solid rather than transparent. Think this would also go some way to giving the bike a bit more presence like the old model.
Mind you, I’ve a GSA and that looks like there’s a house coming down the road at you.
Very true!
I was looking to buy a 1250 gsa but when I heard the 1300 was coming out I decided to wait.
Since I ll be keeping the bike for years, I am 99% sure of getting the new 1300. Just waiting for it to come to USA and do a test ride.
Thanks for the video..
Well done, Sir. Bravo.
Overall a very good review and I will await to see/hear more about this all new R1300GS. I will add that perhaps the all new R1300GSA will have a larger road presence. Me personally, I always liked the GS looks over the GSA for their R1200/1250 series.
I like the green and gold, reminds me of the South African Springbok rugby team.
One thing that BMW always does well is ergonomics and yet again they haven't disappointed. I love the colour display and the efficient way BMW uses the colours (the coolant temperature controlled variable red line for example). I also love the command wheel and the placing of the switch gear. As to the engine: they keep being committed to make that boxer the best it can be and personally I think that's just great. The icing on the cake for me is that BMW proprietary navigation unit, that seamlessly integrates with the bike to become both a navigation screen and an extended system screen that adds to what the main screen displays.
Yet again a very nice review Andy. It's always a pleasure to see and hear a real-life review of a bike. I love how you keep your fact and your opinions clearly separated.
That's very kind of you to say - thank you!
In the 70’s, cars had a single stalk poking out the left of the steering column and you moved it up and down to turn your ‘winkers’ on, it sometimes had a button on the end which activated the horn. Remember? It wasn’t back lit. Modern cars have now got several stalks with all manner of functions and actions to use them, you may have experienced this? Can’t say these are back lit on some pretty high end cars, which are all very dark in the cabin at night, and the stalks may be obscured by the steering wheel. Yet we can all control things accurately, without looking at them. By the same token, never had a problem on a bike, and as you keep reminding us on BMW tests, the controls are copy and paste off other models and therefore very familiar.
Fair point.
The radar cruise control is a bit of a double edged sword. I test road for about an hour or so before returning the bike to the dealer and specced up my GS for March delivery... I didn't get the radar for 2 reasons:- 1) I'm sure it might have the effect of making me lazy...2) On the test ride when the car in front in a 30 mph stretch, indicated right on a sharpish left hand bend, but with plenty of room for me to pass on the left, the bike decided to slow dramatically. I'm not sure but I believe it braked too.. whilst I was leaning into the left hander..the inevitable tailgating car driver only just avoided ramming me. I also needed to change down to be able to pull away. Electronic Sensors are all well and good but they don't know everything. Can't wait for the GS 1300 to arrive though...I particularly like the dynamic chassis sinking down when you slow down so you can flat foot. I thought the quick shifter better than my old 1250GS
The old 'tank-like' GS was no doubt a great design, with very individual styling, but this one looks fabulous. Would I have one? Yup!
Hamburger button. I haven’t got my bike yet but I understood that you can set the two main functions of your choice.
One quick press to go to the first choice, indicated by the dot to the left and a long press to go to the second choice, indicated by the hamburger symbol to the right.
Yes I must experiment with that!
Great review nice to get a different perspective on the bike than other channels who covered the bike initially.. thanks for the video. Great job
Lots more to come….not all of it good!
Very nice,looking forward to the rest of your reviews on this.
Coming soon!
Cheers Andy .. a real world review. Interesting .. all the talk of weight loss and you don’t notice much difference moving it around. A potential selling point for me for the future.
Th reason the gearbox is clunky is because it is wider ratio than a typical sport bike. That means that there is MUCH more differential speed in the gearbox at the point where the transmission has to jump to the next gear. The inertia of the engine then abruptly causes a surge in torque and the clunk and surge feel. All the good sport bikes have incredibly close ratio transmissions, so there is almost no difference in engine rpm between gears. This makes for smooth shifts at the expense of having high revs at cruising speed and a lot of clutch slipping to take off. That's fine and good on a track, beneficial even.
For a touring bike, I would rather have a wide ratio gearbox and deal with the clunk or use the clutch to smooth the ratio change.
Its funny, like many, I didn’t like the looks at first, but it’s been a few months since the release, I’ve seen some bikes in the flesh and as you say it is better than pictures suggest. Problem is there’s no way I could put that in my garage, walk away and look back at it without feeling slightly ill. Whatever anyone says, looks matter, and if you’re buying this particular version, at £26,000 including luggage, you’d jolly well better like the looks! I hope this trend of ever more eye watering prices falls off a cliff soon - even on PCP these must start to be unaffordable. I dread to think what the balloon payment will be. Thank goodness there’s a thriving low and midrange sector with some great bikes.
A great in depth review covering some aspects I’ve not heard of in other reviews, and yes the camera looked excellent. Well done and keep the high quality content coming!
Thank you very much!
We agree on many design/ride preferences.
I rode my Guzzi home yesterday. My first impression is positive though I was limited by weather that resembles your conditions. Spring cannot arrive soon enough for me.
Be careful with your shoulder, Andy.
Thank you!
I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing your final review as you gain more knowledge and mileage on the new GS. At the end of your long term ownership, and Mrs Flyer has had a good amount of pillion time as well, whether or not it impresses both of you enough to consider upgrading your current GS to the new one.
We shall see - putting plenty of miles on it so far to find out!
I prefer this green colour version, I am hoping my wife and kids have got me one for my birthday tomorrow. Always half fancied a GS, this new model takes it up to 65% desirability. Fingers crossed for tomorrow morning. Bloody hell that headlight is fantastic
Happy birthday 🎂
many thanks from Chailey@@TheMissendenFlyer
Thanks for that. Great to get your feedback
Any time!
I like that blind spot indicator!
Not entirely sure I follow your comment but thanks for stopping by!
Sorry.. typo city! @@TheMissendenFlyer
Just traded in my 2023 S1000XR for this bike. The quick-shifter on the XR is silky-smooth; the GS shifter is swinging a sledge hammer at a brick wall. Brakes on the XR are much more capable than the GS. Everything else... technology, anti-dive, comfort, torque... is why I now drive this bike 🤪
Personally I find the "tractorness" of the gear shifting one of my favorite parts of the R bikes. The "clunk" more clearly tells you you are in gear and good to go. It's a personality of the bike that I would truly miss if they engineered out of it. Hope you find a 'dark mode' or brightness for the nav screen at nigh.
Has the demo bike got ride height adjustment
Sadly not....
Nice seeing you back on the road whatever bike you’re on!
Thank you - this was my first ride since my op..
A great, practical review, Mr Flyer. When you're doing the Connectivity Gizmo review, it would be great to see how much the TFT menus have changed from the 1250.
Enjoy your time on the bike!
Nice bike, nice video. Thank you! Also enamored of the blind spot monitoring around town and on the freeway (motorway).
Yes that is a brilliant feature (as is the active cruise control)
the TFT looks really nice, and i like the split screen with the top one being the nav aid.
Excellent critical review! Thank you Pete!
Thank you kindly! Who’s Pete btw??
My FRIEND, the older we get the more we wrap. shoulders I wrap, sometimes leave on for weeks at a time. REALLY HELPS !!!!
Can you elaborate? I'm not sure I know what you're talking about??
I like to wrap my shoulders with an ace bandage, knees also. We see all those professional athletes all taped up. It works for us too, talk to a physical therapist how to do it
What a pity Andy that you have fallen into the trap of the ubiquitous TH-cam 'influencer' to label your first ride review 'honest'....we know that you always provide genuine information; no need to add 'honest'. We know you are.
Seems to garner more views if you do that (although it implies previous are dishonest!!!)
Not a GS fanboy (nothing against it) ride a R1250RS myself, personally I preferred this version from the get go and don't have a problem with headlight. Not in the least surprised that it's excellent, there's no way BMW would launch it if it wasn't. Great review as always
I’ve had all that BMW could offer but have gone back in technology with a triumph Bonneville and a 2003 Honda pan European and I have not missed any of the technology that I had and my bank balance has gained a lot of weight as a consequence
Great review as always!
Thanks again!
It was the Same reg number as the bike in this video so I presumed it was 👍. The bike looked great, I will watch your reviews with interest. I’m sort of waiting for the GS Adventure
Good report, Andy. As you know too well by now, not my kind of machine but this certainly appears to cover a broad and comprehensive overview for those contemplating this bike.
Many thanks!
I’ve seen a few comments re pillion comfort so Mrs F’s opinion once you get the top box could be interesting.
Yes I have the top box now so that video will be coming soon!
I believe the reason for BMW boxers to traditionally have clunky gear changes is the basic layout of the engine, clutch & gear box. The clutch is between the engine & gearbox like in a car. The clutch is mounted on the crankshaft & rotates at engine speed which requires an exceptionally precise matching of RPM to MPH to achieve a smooth gear change. On most other bikes with a more conventional layout the clutch is after the gearbox, and it is far easier to achieve a smooth gear change as the clutch is ‘remote’ from engine speed. As BMW have reconfigured the1300 boxer engine with the gearbox in a new position in relation to the engine I don’t know if this still applies?
Doesn’t seem too - still clunky!
Thank you for your time with these awesome reviews you help us common folks out tremendously
My pleasure!
I've been waiting for this Andy and you did not disappoint, thankyou. For someone who's never ridden a GS (I'm more an FJR man), I think it is time to take a test ride. Cheers.
For reference, I just viewed an older TMF video (2019 BMW R1250GS Rallye - Touring Review) a five year old video by now, What a difference in the way the looks of a new GS is described compared to today. TMF then said "what an absolutely beautiful machine". With the new 1300 the statements are more like " I am struggling to like the looks of it. I couldn't agree more.
Yes the times they are a changing!
In typical BMW fashion, they tweaked what they have rather than doing anything radical which I can appreciate. Design wise they cleaned up the lines and dash. Mechanically, they refreshed everything to bring it up to a more modern standard. I don't really see how it's any bigger of a leap than say the 1200 to the 1250.
Well worth waiting for an excelent first thoughts video.
Thank you very much!
Great review Andy as usual. The looks for a lot of people are like marmite at the moment but with all the bike reviews I watch on TH-cam, reviewers comments depend on your physical size and how you like to ride a bike. I have a high mileage 1250 gsa, brill bike, pulls like a tractor from no revs which leads to very relaxed riding style and I use it to 2up quite a lot. The new 1300 has fantastic torque and is great to ride. I’m also fortunate to own an XR. When I come back from a spin on that, it certainly puts a grin on your face and I think the 1300 is heading that direction having ridden it. The XR, the Multistrada require a little more gear changing but I think that adds to the fun element plus they both have a proper quickshifter so the riding experience is different. It just depends what you want.
Also,you still have to get to 2nd or 3rd on the 1300 before the gearshift works really well. At 6’3 the bike is a little small for me but perfectly suited to you. I just hope BMW use a different size frame and just don’t jack up the 1300 on higher suspension to become a GSA.
I also noticed on TH-cam that if you want to fit SW Motech aluminium boxes you have to remove the electronic bits that the BMW luggage clips into and it affects the looks at the back of the bike.
It looks great with the new BMW luggage and is an ideal ‘ adventure touring bike ‘,as that’s how it will be used by 95% owners. The luggage looks nearly like what you get on an RT which which begs the question, with suspension lowering on the 1300 why buy an RT in the future 😳 It’s interesting the route BMW has taken with the bike.
Indeed - I'm pretty much in agreement with you all round.....
My brother in law has a degree in Engineering & he's very skeptical of the GS' shaft drive, says most GS owners only keep them a couple of years & the splines start wearing out shortly after 2 years. We could do with having a real long long term test. I'm skeptical of Dave's skepticism myself - back in the day I heard nothing but good about shafties. Be interesting to see who's right.
I’ve had mine 10 years and never had an issue with the shaft drive!
Good review Andy, your commentary gave me a real sense of what the thing feels like to ride. Which is the whole point I suppose, Good job.
Thank you!
It’s been a while and a 1250 GSA no longer features in my little pic, it’s been replaced with a caravan towing beast but yes I still love the BMWs and I’m still thinking I’ll be back on a bike one day, maybe a GSA, maybe an RT or would a GT 1600 work for me and then there’s the Goldwing, I am getting older after all 😁
One thing that hasn’t changed is your top notch reviews.
Thank you and much regard from somewhere in Australia.
Thank you very much! ...and yes, you must get another bike!
Looking forward to hearing about the side cases...
Having just spent 4 days on tour in Wales using them in anger, I now feel qualified to review them - stay tuned.
You know you’re going to pull the trigger on a new GS 👍🏻 I take it people know that the EU changed construction and Use regs which now means all bike headlights must be symmetrical. The days of offset lights like an old F800r and early GS’s have now gone.
Time will tell!
As someone who is interested in buying a GS I found this to be very helpful for real world life, thank you for the time and effort it takes, it is appreciated. I am trying to decide if a winter bike and a summer fun bike are the way to go or go the one bike does all route which is what I expect this version of the GS to be. I was not a massive fan of the 1250 but interested to try a 1300. With that one bike for all in mind, I’d be interested in a very dull but rather important ownership reality. What is this version of the GS like to keep clean? A quick wash down to get rid of the worst of the salt and a more in depth clean? Any thoughts on this would be really appreciated. I do not tend to comment but I do like your content so just want to say thank you while I am here. I wish you well with the shoulder recovery.
It's actually much easier to clean than the older bikes - I've now done it 3 times so speak with some authority on the matter!
There is no mention of price. Especially once you add crash bars, spots and top box. Not sure about the hand guards having built in indicators, no doubt if u drop it, expensive fix. Try changing the heat grips at night when switching is not lit. Disappointed.
Still not sold on the looks. The difference is not so big that i would consider trading in my 23 GSA1250.
Great review.