Whilst Harry is still enjoying his KTM, Mat has had to give his BMW back! Here he tries to convince Harry why it is so good and so much better than the KTM.
I have the 2016 BMW XR1000S . I put heavier bars end weights on it. I took a gamble at buying it after reading all the bad about the vibrations. I came off a 2013 Ducati Multistrada & 2012 Kawasaki ZX10R. The BMW is a better bike! I don’t notice the vibrations . I tour with friends on sport bikes in canyons. I keep up with them with no problem. At the end of the day I get off the bike & feel great! Don’t let the negative talk on the internet persuade you away from getting one.
Simple fix indeed and not too expensive but I don't think those handlebar weights are going to fix the problem BMW has with XR's spitting their cams out, oh they won't tell you about it and if you're not clued in when it happens, they'll convince you that they've never heard of the problem before . . . DO NOT believe them, even if the bike is out of warranty, this is a known problem.
I have a 2016 XR with 45,000 miles. All happy miles but the cyclinder head has a small crack now due to all the cam vibrations! It is leaking oil. Time for a new bike without the vibrations and leaking oil!
The vibrations on the BMW were crazy noticeable for me. I knew within 30 minutes of riding it that I'd never be happy. It depends on what RPM range you're touring in and the vibs just happened to be most prominent right where I'd spend most of my time. Issue for me was that unlike a V-Twin the BMW's vibration frequency was very high, almost like a buzzing. The vibrations on my Multi and 1290 are must lower, more grumble. And I've never had issues with my past inline 4's. That said the BMW is a BEAST, don't take anyone's word for it. Go ride one for 20-30 minutes, you'll know before you get back if it's for you.
There are some easy and cheap fixes for that problem. In case you or whoever read that doesnt know. Also the 2015 BMW XR has a bit more vibration than the newer 2016-17-18 models
I agree, anything over 4,000rpm on the S1000xr results in the engine transforming the handlebars into vibrators strong enough to put you out of a job... that and the jelly like 'vaugeness' of the throttle in EVERY ride mode turns what should be an exciting ride into a very dull and laggy experience. such a let down. (I rode a unit with the dynamics pack and the touring pack)
dynamic and dynamic pro are excellent modes. Deviant moto bar end weights as flithymcnastyazz commented and the XR is a touring machine till 6.000 rpm and a rocket going around corners like a true superbike above 7.000rpm. If you want a boring old mans bike go buy the GS or the Multistrada.
Wish they'd fix it on the S1000R, they added a rubber spacer under the bar clamps on the 2017 bike but I still find after a long day of riding my hands are quite tingly.
Rode both and bought a Superduke. XR is amazing I agree but somehow too refined for me, the KTM sounds and feels like a bike not a food blender. Beemer is near perfect but doesn’t talk to my soul. Makes no sense, sorry, but I love the Duke.
I am fascinated with the elevator attached to the building. Great motorcycle transporter or a bunch of your friends too lazy to take the stairs:) Thanks for sharing.
Does anyone can say clear - what bike has stronger vibrations and at what RPM range? As a S1000XR owner with a full akro and PCV I can say - yes, I mention vibrations on 4000 - 5000 RPMs but it isn't so crucial. You either cruising at 5000+ and everything is smooth, or you ride through city traffic at 2300 - 4000 and still, it's ok. But I want to change next year to 1290 SPGT and wondering if it's much worse in vibration meaning.
I currently ride a BMW R1200R, and love it. But wish it had a little more power, and a little more upright seating position. So I assumed then that the S1000 XR would be perfect for me. But I'monly 5'8", it seems too tall. I really love how low I sit on my R1200R. KTM looks nice, great power, and great price, but I still believe the BMW is better. Not sure what to do! This bike is too tall for me.
I have a s1000xr since 2015, I have always liked bikes without vibrations, but do you really think so much the problem? It does not have as many vibrations if you put some new balancers, there are not as many vibrations. In return it is a beast, I have never had so much fun with a motorcycle and I have had enough (gsxr750, gsxr1000, kawasaki gtr1400, vfr1200 among others)
I have had many BMW's in my garage some good some bad but I have also had several KTM's. One thing that has always remained true at least in my experience is that every KTM has a fun factor, rider bike connection and unique feel. I still have 3 KTM's and no BMW's. All bikes are great and to each his own but there is something special about the way KTM puts a bike together....IMHO.
Chris Van Tassel How has the reliability experience been for you with the KTMs? I am on a 2012 Multistrada 1200 and considering some of the Japanese bikes (Ninja 1000, Versys 1000, Tracer GT) but there is something about the KTM, like you said. That challenge is two-fold: overall reliability and availability of parts/dealer network. I have a KTM near my home, but farther out, that could get, ahem...challenging?
Matt for an all a rounder would you buy the S1000XR instead of anything else? Actually it’s a little expensive for me, what would you get instead? I test rode it..I love the auto blipper and quick shifter.
Can't really blame motor journalist from putting people off buying certain bikes... you do your homework and research the bike market then you test ride the bike you like and make a decision.
One thing I realized through owning an auto blip. You don’t need to rev match if you have a regular bike with no quick shifter . Just a blip is good enough. Rev matching shouldn’t be a thing on a sequential transmission like motorcycles use, the purpose of rev matching is to protect your synchros , a sequential moto transmission doesn’t have synchros , the gears are mated so then you don’t need exact rev matching. That’s why you’ll notice on an auto blip , it doesn’t rev up to a specific rpm it just blips the throttle a bit no matter what range your in I’m not an engineer so if anyone has more design knowledge I’d love to hear how my hypothesis pans out, but I believe the logic is sound.
Biggest gripe with the BMW.....clutch lever is non-adjustable. On this level of machine I think that is really poor. I still love it but all that tech and a non-adjustable clutch! Basic stuff BMW. As for vibration...ever had a bike that didn't? The BMW has the slickest gearbox ever. I've always been a V twin guy but I do love this BM- once you get used to the permanently angry sound from it :D
tons of long term reviews out there showing how many problems the XR has. ignition failures, vibration problems, electrical problems, etc etc unacceptable for a 30k++ bike
you can watch plenty of reviews from journos and owners alike that mention these problems. not denying its a great bike, but you just expect better quality control for something of that price.
Tried the BMW on demo and I absolutely loved it. I didn't notice any bad vibes from the bike and it goes like stink and your up to naughty speeds very quickly. People need to demo bikes instead of taking a journos opinion and stop being a big girls blouse because the bike might vibrate slightly - It's a motorbike Christ sake!!
Less Exciting? S1000XR?! Here is what you do; follow my lead; get rid of the ugly and heavy muffler don't forget to replace the cat converter with a straight Ti pipe all the way down to the collectors. Re -map the engine and voila; 166HP At Rear Wheel! put it in the Dynamic-Pro mode and you can wheelie your XR all the way from Capetown to Jo-berg in every gear but 6.
Had a Beemer 1000r, sold It in a month ..the vibrations suck, end of story. I've owned allot of bikes..it is noticeable, period. It makes your hand numb after a hour of riding which would should not happen in a modern, high dollar motorcycle. If you don't mind it, your probably into vibrators on your sphincter.
303cc more and two less cylinders....... you just hook on a tree and BRAAAAAAAAAAAP pull it out by the roots. Not something you can say about a 998cc i-4. All Vtwins have some bucking and vibes below a certain RPM. Just the nature of them. The KTM seems happiest above about 3,800 rpm. Pick whatever gear keeps you there and it's smooth, smooth enough to never put any feet, hands, or butt asleep. If I wanted a i-4, I'd want one with a good heap more torque around the bottom and middle, sort of like a Bandit 1250 but with a lot more modern amenities and features. Sure you can do it on the FJR or Concours14, but those bikes are too heavy and not as roomy for the legs and arms like these pavement-biased ADV sportbikes. I'll take the.............DL1000 with about 20 more hp. Done. And with how obsessed Germans can be about engineering, they could have spent as much time refining crankshaft balance as they did the QS/blipper....
I don't know what YOU are talking about. You have no personal experience with the DL? I suppose if you have an extra 8,000 USD burning a hole in your wallet, you'd never consider it. "fat pig" It's 511 pounds wet. That's a mere 8 pounds more than the XR. It's actually pretty light, lighter than a lot of others in the same playing field. "a bad dirt bike" False. Plenty of dirt videos prove that wrong. "it's a bad adventure bike" False. More V-Stroms have strauffed the world than most of these later machines combined. "it's a bad sport bike" It's not supposed to be a "sport bike" so the point of this remark is? Yet it's fast and sporty and the suspension is superb. Brakes are powerful too. IMU keeps the rubber down. "it's a bad touring bike" What a load of cow poo. "it does nothing well" Just like your comments.
Harry's not a day over 29. I'm not even sure he's old enough for a pint! Plus, he is a lion amongst men. The king of the jungle! Therefor, his hair must be a glorious, and resplendent, mane worthy of his majestic feline status. It's just science.
The S1000 *does* have excessive vibrations, which aren't present in Japanese I4's, very fatiguing on a touring bike. Not acceptable for the amount BMW charges for it.
Last I checked, there isn't a single Japanese I4 Touring, Sport Touring, or Sport adventure touring that could compete with BMW's offering. VFR1200x- Down on power, heavier, and lack of electronics, but it is slightly more capable of offroad life 15k USD Versys- Heavier, lack of basic electronics, down on power, (s1kXR isn't either)not really offroad capable 13k V strom- SAme weight, lack of basic electronics, down on power, (choosing the model similar to s1kxr)not really offroad capable 13k Yeah, the BMW is expensive, but you're getting A LOT over the Japanese competition when you put their ADV sport touring bikes in perspective.
I didn't include the Concours, because it is being discontinued for not meeting Euro4 emissions... tagged with not being a strong seller that's a wrap for it. There is also rumors of a Supercharged Touring bike on the works with the reveal happening on the 7th. So the Connie might be getting an upgrade or be replaced outright. Yet, it has been codenamed H2SX/ H2GT for now until the reveal. FJR I'm not sure about, but yeah it isn't exactly over the top... it's 630lbs, less power but more torque, around the same tech.... It's a big bike, but you're paying pretty similar prices.. XR isn't really adventure, but with the right tires and guards it can do medium duty work offroad.
Who said anything about "competing" with the Japanese i-4's? When something vibrates annoyingly, it vibrates annoyingly. Overlay the dyno charts. Below about 8,000 rpm who's competing? DL1000 is fantastically capable off the pavement. Plenty of videos online proving that, even on this channel. Performance isn't bad for 511 pounds full of fuel. Swap exhaust and battery and now it's below 500 pounds.
I have the 2016 BMW XR1000S . I put heavier bars end weights on it. I took a gamble at buying it after reading all the bad about the vibrations. I came off a 2013 Ducati Multistrada & 2012 Kawasaki ZX10R. The BMW is a better bike! I don’t notice the vibrations . I tour with friends on sport bikes in canyons. I keep up with them with no problem. At the end of the day I get off the bike & feel great! Don’t let the negative talk on the internet persuade you away from getting one.
Simple fix indeed and not too expensive but I don't think those handlebar weights are going to fix the problem BMW has with XR's spitting their cams out, oh they won't tell you about it and if you're not clued in when it happens, they'll convince you that they've never heard of the problem before . . . DO NOT believe them, even if the bike is out of warranty, this is a known problem.
I have a 2016 XR with 45,000 miles. All happy miles but the cyclinder head has a small crack now due to all the cam vibrations! It is leaking oil. Time for a new bike without the vibrations and leaking oil!
"gamble" "bar vibration" lol if that's your biggest problem with a bike you know it's a good bike haha
I don’t have the bmw anymore. I’m riding a 2018 Aprilia Tuono. Lighter & quicker.
@@canadiantriple2441 Not really the same category but still a nice bike
The vibrations on the BMW were crazy noticeable for me. I knew within 30 minutes of riding it that I'd never be happy. It depends on what RPM range you're touring in and the vibs just happened to be most prominent right where I'd spend most of my time.
Issue for me was that unlike a V-Twin the BMW's vibration frequency was very high, almost like a buzzing. The vibrations on my Multi and 1290 are must lower, more grumble. And I've never had issues with my past inline 4's.
That said the BMW is a BEAST, don't take anyone's word for it. Go ride one for 20-30 minutes, you'll know before you get back if it's for you.
There are some easy and cheap fixes for that problem. In case you or whoever read that doesnt know. Also the 2015 BMW XR has a bit more vibration than the newer 2016-17-18 models
Deviant Moto bar end weights
I agree, anything over 4,000rpm on the S1000xr results in the engine transforming the handlebars into vibrators strong enough to put you out of a job... that and the jelly like 'vaugeness' of the throttle in EVERY ride mode turns what should be an exciting ride into a very dull and laggy experience. such a let down. (I rode a unit with the dynamics pack and the touring pack)
dynamic and dynamic pro are excellent modes. Deviant moto bar end weights as flithymcnastyazz commented and the XR is a touring machine till 6.000 rpm and a rocket going around corners like a true superbike above 7.000rpm. If you want a boring old mans bike go buy the GS or the Multistrada.
leaking fork seal at 5:52 anyone else noticed it?
One specific point on the XR, in Canada, BMW has released a free upgrade to fix the handlebar vibration. Works like a dream.
Wish they'd fix it on the S1000R, they added a rubber spacer under the bar clamps on the 2017 bike but I still find after a long day of riding my hands are quite tingly.
You guys should now ride the K1300S... insane power with practical features
150whp aint that poweful mate.....that bike loses a lot of power through the driveshaft
Rode both and bought a Superduke. XR is amazing I agree but somehow too refined for me, the KTM sounds and feels like a bike not a food blender. Beemer is near perfect but doesn’t talk to my soul. Makes no sense, sorry, but I love the Duke.
I am fascinated with the elevator attached to the building. Great motorcycle transporter or a bunch of your friends too lazy to take the stairs:) Thanks for sharing.
After owning two XR’s trust me the vibrations after 15 minutes on the motorway say goodbye to your right 🤚 vibration are unbelievable
@Andrew Sherif So if i buy now a 2019 model (which i plan to), i won't have any problems???
@@georgilondon5877 BMW addressed the XR vibration issues with the 2017 and newer XR models!
Have you tried the QS (up and down) on the newer KTMs? Lovely. :)
Is there one that went from s1000xr to the SD GT? And the question is, what is that you miss from the XR?
Over the years I've learnt that when you have to do a rational effort to convince yourself a bike is actually great, it isn't.
agreed, you know when it's great cuz no rationalizations just love, smiles, and lust
I've heard that someone had sorted the vibration on the BMW but making heavier bar end weights.
I love your banter and honesty i will have to test a V-Twin compared to an inline four which is what i am used to.
Does anyone can say clear - what bike has stronger vibrations and at what RPM range?
As a S1000XR owner with a full akro and PCV I can say - yes, I mention vibrations on 4000 - 5000 RPMs but it isn't so crucial. You either cruising at 5000+ and everything is smooth, or you ride through city traffic at 2300 - 4000 and still, it's ok. But I want to change next year to 1290 SPGT and wondering if it's much worse in vibration meaning.
You okes need to get some grip puppies for the vibrations. Works like a charm.
Heavy bar ends make a world of difference by significantly reducing the vibes, and they are cheap. I have the hvmp ones.
Bought a ktm super adventure S today!!
An excellent review funny, slick, professional but oh bugger still can’t decide!
I currently ride a BMW R1200R, and love it. But wish it had a little more power, and a little more upright seating position. So I assumed then that the S1000 XR would be perfect for me. But I'monly 5'8", it seems too tall. I really love how low I sit on my R1200R. KTM looks nice, great power, and great price, but I still believe the BMW is better. Not sure what to do! This bike is too tall for me.
I remember riding a harley elctraglide.... back in 05... i got off
Vibrating
I have a s1000xr since 2015, I have always liked bikes without vibrations, but do you really think so much the problem? It does not have as many vibrations if you put some new balancers, there are not as many vibrations. In return it is a beast, I have never had so much fun with a motorcycle and I have had enough (gsxr750, gsxr1000, kawasaki gtr1400, vfr1200 among others)
I have had many BMW's in my garage some good some bad but I have also had several KTM's. One thing that has always remained true at least in my experience is that every KTM has a fun factor, rider bike connection and unique feel. I still have 3 KTM's and no BMW's. All bikes are great and to each his own but there is something special about the way KTM puts a bike together....IMHO.
Chris Van Tassel How has the reliability experience been for you with the KTMs? I am on a 2012 Multistrada 1200 and considering some of the Japanese bikes (Ninja 1000, Versys 1000, Tracer GT) but there is something about the KTM, like you said. That challenge is two-fold: overall reliability and availability of parts/dealer network. I have a KTM near my home, but farther out, that could get, ahem...challenging?
Matt for an all a rounder would you buy the S1000XR instead of anything else? Actually it’s a little expensive for me, what would you get instead? I test rode it..I love the auto blipper and quick shifter.
Can't really blame motor journalist from putting people off buying certain bikes... you do your homework and research the bike market then you test ride the bike you like and make a decision.
One thing I realized through owning an auto blip. You don’t need to rev match if you have a regular bike with no quick shifter . Just a blip is good enough.
Rev matching shouldn’t be a thing on a sequential transmission like motorcycles use, the purpose of rev matching is to protect your synchros , a sequential moto transmission doesn’t have synchros , the gears are mated so then you don’t need exact rev matching. That’s why you’ll notice on an auto blip , it doesn’t rev up to a specific rpm it just blips the throttle a bit no matter what range your in
I’m not an engineer so if anyone has more design knowledge I’d love to hear how my hypothesis pans out, but I believe the logic is sound.
I remember Harry liked the Ducati Multi 1260 S a lot. I'd be curious how would he/you compare w/ the KTM 1290 Adv S or GT?
That XR looks very tight for two...I’d hate having a pillion positioned like that.
Check out A Brit A Blond and A Bike, they love it that way. There is a video they also tell why. Cannot remember which one though.
Biggest gripe with the BMW.....clutch lever is non-adjustable. On this level of machine I think that is really poor. I still love it but all that tech and a non-adjustable clutch! Basic stuff BMW. As for vibration...ever had a bike that didn't? The BMW has the slickest gearbox ever. I've always been a V twin guy but I do love this BM- once you get used to the permanently angry sound from it :D
30k on my S1000XR and absolutely love it. Get the HP seat, much more confortable.
tons of long term reviews out there showing how many problems the XR has. ignition failures, vibration problems, electrical problems, etc etc
unacceptable for a 30k++ bike
I've only read these claims from people who have never actually owned one along with a comment about its price, which seems like the real issue.
Oso 11 ive not had 1 x issue with my s1000xr as you mentioned
you can watch plenty of reviews from journos and owners alike that mention these problems.
not denying its a great bike, but you just expect better quality control for something of that price.
The best channel ever, ever since you guys held the world soccer cup back in 2010, I loved you guys.
Cheers from Brazil
I love my XR it's amazing. 🖒🖒🖒
Tried the BMW on demo and I absolutely loved it. I didn't notice any bad vibes from the bike and it goes like stink and your up to naughty speeds very quickly. People need to demo bikes instead of taking a journos opinion and stop being a big girls blouse because the bike might vibrate slightly - It's a motorbike Christ sake!!
Thks guys.
for god sakes lad, put that gas lid down, my bike ocd is burning red.
Ricardo Rodrigues ...I put that down to the infamous vibrations
Unless you are a 100 years old and vibrations trigger your dementia, I could not feel anything out of the ordinary on the S1000XR. None at all.
Your houses must be real fortresses in RSA
Your hair looks like you just pinned it in 6th without a helmet 😂
Less Exciting? S1000XR?! Here is what you do; follow my lead; get rid of the ugly and heavy muffler don't forget to replace the cat converter with a straight Ti pipe all the way down to the collectors. Re -map the engine and voila; 166HP At Rear Wheel! put it in the Dynamic-Pro mode and you can wheelie your XR all the way from Capetown to Jo-berg in every gear but 6.
The XR can do things it shouldn't be able to.
I love my XR , Real men can handle a small vibration
Real nerves don't care about gender or macho men. All BMW had to do is simply balance the bloomin' thing.
Had a Beemer 1000r, sold
It in a month ..the vibrations suck, end of story. I've owned allot of bikes..it is noticeable, period. It makes your hand numb after a hour of riding which would should not happen in a modern, high dollar motorcycle. If you don't mind it, your probably into vibrators on your sphincter.
Spikes on KTM payroll. Gandolf on BMW's payroll.
303cc more and two less cylinders....... you just hook on a tree and BRAAAAAAAAAAAP pull it out by the roots. Not something you can say about a 998cc i-4. All Vtwins have some bucking and vibes below a certain RPM. Just the nature of them. The KTM seems happiest above about 3,800 rpm. Pick whatever gear keeps you there and it's smooth, smooth enough to never put any feet, hands, or butt asleep.
If I wanted a i-4, I'd want one with a good heap more torque around the bottom and middle, sort of like a Bandit 1250 but with a lot more modern amenities and features. Sure you can do it on the FJR or Concours14, but those bikes are too heavy and not as roomy for the legs and arms like these pavement-biased ADV sportbikes.
I'll take the.............DL1000 with about 20 more hp. Done.
And with how obsessed Germans can be about engineering, they could have spent as much time refining crankshaft balance as they did the QS/blipper....
I don't know what YOU are talking about. You have no personal experience with the DL? I suppose if you have an extra 8,000 USD burning a hole in your wallet, you'd never consider it.
"fat pig" It's 511 pounds wet. That's a mere 8 pounds more than the XR. It's actually pretty light, lighter than a lot of others in the same playing field.
"a bad dirt bike" False. Plenty of dirt videos prove that wrong.
"it's a bad adventure bike" False. More V-Stroms have strauffed the world than most of these later machines combined.
"it's a bad sport bike" It's not supposed to be a "sport bike" so the point of this remark is? Yet it's fast and sporty and the suspension is superb. Brakes are powerful too. IMU keeps the rubber down.
"it's a bad touring bike" What a load of cow poo.
"it does nothing well" Just like your comments.
The shark helmet is it any good?
STR Rider i have had a Shark speed R for the last 4 years not bad but now swapped for a shoei GT air which I prefefer
Harry should review some hair products might he get some freebies that might sort out that Barnet 😂
Ktm 1290 over the s1000xr for me owning both
Guy's clearly stuck his finger in an electrical socket
Spikey hair after 40 is a cry for help ....just sayin
Harry's not a day over 29. I'm not even sure he's old enough for a pint! Plus, he is a lion amongst men. The king of the jungle! Therefor, his hair must be a glorious, and resplendent, mane worthy of his majestic feline status. It's just science.
Breh he's just getting ready to play Vegeta in the next live action DB movie
NICE MANN
nice
Jesus that hair!
The S1000 *does* have excessive vibrations, which aren't present in Japanese I4's, very fatiguing on a touring bike. Not acceptable for the amount BMW charges for it.
Last I checked, there isn't a single Japanese I4 Touring, Sport Touring, or Sport adventure touring that could compete with BMW's offering.
VFR1200x- Down on power, heavier, and lack of electronics, but it is slightly more capable of offroad life 15k USD
Versys- Heavier, lack of basic electronics, down on power, (s1kXR isn't either)not really offroad capable 13k
V strom- SAme weight, lack of basic electronics, down on power, (choosing the model similar to s1kxr)not really offroad capable 13k
Yeah, the BMW is expensive, but you're getting A LOT over the Japanese competition when you put their ADV sport touring bikes in perspective.
I didn't include the Concours, because it is being discontinued for not meeting Euro4 emissions... tagged with not being a strong seller that's a wrap for it. There is also rumors of a Supercharged Touring bike on the works with the reveal happening on the 7th. So the Connie might be getting an upgrade or be replaced outright. Yet, it has been codenamed H2SX/ H2GT for now until the reveal.
FJR I'm not sure about, but yeah it isn't exactly over the top... it's 630lbs, less power but more torque, around the same tech.... It's a big bike, but you're paying pretty similar prices..
XR isn't really adventure, but with the right tires and guards it can do medium duty work offroad.
It's definately not for everyone...maybe for you when you're doing better with the job and the wife gives you the nod.
If it sits around 20k USD to maybe 22k I'll be fine with it. Anything more than that though I won't be interested
Who said anything about "competing" with the Japanese i-4's? When something vibrates annoyingly, it vibrates annoyingly.
Overlay the dyno charts. Below about 8,000 rpm who's competing?
DL1000 is fantastically capable off the pavement. Plenty of videos online proving that, even on this channel. Performance isn't bad for 511 pounds full of fuel. Swap exhaust and battery and now it's below 500 pounds.
Do you lick it a lot?
The s1000xr: the most expensive suzuki.
stopped watching when I saw his hair. His opinion obviously doesn't matter.
Complete bell ends these guys.