The reason people prefer adventure bikes over sports tourers is that there is better wind/weather protection, more leg room, much comfier, more pillion room, they handle our crap road surfaces better and you can ride stood up to stretch your legs. It's not all about if you go off road or not. Modern Adv bikes handle so well, so the average rider (like myself) can probably go as fast as they would on a sports tourer. I've always liked sports tourers and decided to trade in my GS for a KTM 1290 superduke GT for the same reasons you mentioned in the vid. After 1.5 years I've traded the GT in for a KTM Super Adventure S because I've come to the conclusion that there is no better all round, do it all bike than an adventure bike. It's getting a bit boring with some youtubers telling adventure bike riders that they don't use it for what its intended, or they have bought the wrong bike. Give people some credit for knowing what they want from a bike.
If someone had told me I should skip my adventure bike time and go straight to the RS I could have saved money. The RS fits me better and when I did take my GS on forestry roads, there was dust everywhere, it was heavy as hell and I was too focussed on riding, standing, technique etc. It was not relaxing and peaceful. That's what my mountain bike is for. I totally hear you about the weather protection, comfort for taller folk - the RS definitely is smaller but for me, it's utterly perfect and so much prettier.
I routinely stand up on the pegs on my RS to occasionally relieve my left knee. Got a 300 mile ride planned for this Friday. Saturday will ride to the Concrete Fly-in. The RS is totally where it's at!
I and my R1250RS agree. For me, no better bike exists, and having owned a K1200RS and a R1100RS prior to this, possibly no better line of bikes. So pleased to see it getting some overdue attention. An engine with a century of refinement on a platform with its own 40 year history. She's a big girl but after you get beyond that, a tremendous all rounder that loves high speed sweepers. The massive torque of the 1250 Shiftcam is just a cherry on top. Total joy to ride.
I own a 2002 K1200rs and absolutely love it. I am curious- how does the 20 year old K bike feel compared to the newer R1250RS? Is there anything you like about the K bike more?
@@LucasMuniz294 I had a new 2004 K1200GT, (last of the K1200RSs with some bits added), great bike but not a patch on the 1250RS which is a much more refined bike.
@@LucasMuniz294 Engine: The R is 98 lbs lighter, with 6 more HP, 19 more ft-lbs of torque, and 11 MPG better gas mileage. The torque/weight difference means it can bolt away from a stop like a beast and enjoys lighter and more nimble handling at low speeds. It's geared differently though and while it pulls well into 110s and low 120s it hits a wall around 130 MPH and quickly loses steam. Power delivery gets buzzy at high RPM on the R where it doesn't on the K. R is more fun within legal speed limits, K is more fun outside of them. With an aftermarket exhaust I feel the R sounds better; K always sounded like an angry sewing machine to me. Fueling is superior -- you can put it in any gear and let RPMs go down to idle and it'll happily chug along even up a gradient and not complain. Torque is out of this world great. Servicing is a breeze compared to the K -- can do your own valve checks in a half hour. Clutch replacements just require removing an engine cover plate, not separating the tranmission from the engine anymore. Excellent tuning kits available from companies like Brenntune to easily take things to the next level if desired. Ergos: K has slightly more leg rooom. RS no longer has multi-positional seat (or handlebars, or footpegs) and now you need to buy different $500 seat options from BMW for different heights. I'm 6'4" and was more comfortable on the K in highest seat positon than I am on R with sport (tallest) seat. Bars are lower on R meaning a slightly more agressive lean angle now; I put Heli risers on mine but didn't need them on the K. Seat is higher quality/more comfortable to my butt. Wind buffeting is worse -- you're going to want an aftermarket screen (I use an MRA Variotouring). Other: My K1200RS's OEM hard luggage had less space than my R1100RS and this is even less. Color-matched colored covers now, so that's a plus. Can still fit a full face helmet in rear case and another in left side, but everything else feels mroe cramped.
I bought my RS a couple of months back. So it's a 2022 Lite White sports with the red frame, full electronic suspension and all the bells and whistles including the Akrapovic exhaust. I did also buy the full luggage pack, panniers, top box and tank bag, for touring. The ease that these items come off is great also that they come with full internal bags is awesome. Now that mine is run in I can unleash the beast within the boxer. Anyone who doesn't like this has rocks for brains.
Great review thank you. I had a test ride of the RS at Ardens of Tunbridge Wells and loved it. As I’ve no intention of going off-road and measuring under 5’6 this bike fits. Taking delivery of my RS on 8th April😀 and touring with it in Germany and Spain this summer.
I own this bike in blue(2020) as a replacement of a GSA (which got stolen from my garage 😡🥴) I use it as a daily rider amd Love it. Extremely versatile and has no problems keeping up with my buddies’ Ducatis and aprilias on trips (which I do on a single gas tank fill while they have to refuel once)! Great bike that I fully recommend 👍🏼! Great video and I’m impressed with lambchop for picking up the only few small issues so fast! PS The quick shift and gearbox improve a lot after breaking-in the bike
Love a good sport tourer! If you have not yet had a chance, you really need to make a trip to ride British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. Twisties and beauty everywhere.
Thanks for a thought-provoking review. Here in the eastern US, there are so many scenic mountain and forest roads that happen to be unpaved. For that reason, and the reason I’m 6’3”, the GS is the obvious choice for me. If I wanted to limit myself to paved roads, the RS would be more fun. Thanks again.
i'm definitely extremely interested in seeing the 1250RS and V100 go up against each other head-to-head. these two bikes are the only sport touring machines i'm currently considering. Spain would certainly be best, but where ever you can do a comparo will have to do. keep up the good work mate...
Shhhhh Chopsy, it’s BMWs secret tool. Every bugger will be buying them instead of GSs now ! Great bike, no issues with the quickshifter blipper in the higher gears, just a bit clunky at times 1-3rd up, no issues going down the box. Loving mine, will prob get another when they put the 1300 engine in it in a few yrs time - just wish our roads would dry out like the Spanish ones atm
I have no idea why you would buy the 1300 when the 1250 engine has so much to offer and this bike cannot be ridden to it's limit on public roads. Unless you wear it out ;)
Another great review! BMWs most overlooked bike, the R1250RS, is probably the best all around road bike they make. I would buy lower bars and raise the rear sets so it fit me a little better but the chassis is great and that 1250 engine is a phenomenal, fun powerplant for road riding.
Careful not to fall for that legendary BMW mythos, and hospitality, Chopsie 😊 Kudos, again, for at least honestly reporting, albeit briefly, the "slightly agricultural gearbox" and so so quickshifter and autoblipper. Kudos, too, for correctly nailing the sports tourer vs GS suitability for 90% of people who buy that land barge convinced they're riding the best vehicle on the planet. It will be interesting to see the comparison test with the Guzzi, as I am pretty sure the gearbox and shaft drive are superior on the new Marandello. Plus, it doesn't have the cheapo stickers that save BMW a fortune finishing their bikes off.
Ridden a lot of bikes and the RS checks the most boxes. Sporty, comfortable, tourer, luggage flexibility, passenger comfort, daily rider. Great all around.
Can’t wait to see you get a chance on a similarly nice day giving the V100 Mandello S a proper go. From what I’ve seen it’s miles better than the regular Mandello. Although this BMW should be better technically, but not in looks. The Guzzi is beautiful I’d take it for sure.
Great review Chopsy, you really get the bike. I have a 2022 version (essentially the same) & love it, HOWEVER there are caveats. You rode & liked it on fantastic Spanish roads - I live in Spain (Valencia) & have endless kilometres of circuit quality uncluttered roads on my doorstep, not to mention the weather & this bike makes total sense, you can really get the most from it. If I were back in the UK the outlook would be different - not so good, congested roads & speed cameras galore, so maybe there a GS (e.g.) might make more sense. Keep up the great vids💪✌
If you like feeling super connected to the Moto, or you love really riding hard on the track (not on this, but i’ve seen them on the track) and don’t line being a human wind sail on an ADV style bike, the RS, the Ducati Supersport, the Guzzi v100 are the way to go
Great review as always; it’s so nice to watch content from someone who has been riding almost as long as me! That depth of experience really shows through, and puts you ahead of most of the other You Tubers, who have only been riding a few years. Keep up the good work.
Another fantastic review, thanks 007. I know 2 adventure bike owners and neither venture off tarmac. Both put comfort ahead of handling. The last bike I rode with a 19” front wheel (and back wheel too) was my 1975 Norton 850 Commando.
I finally test rode the 2023 RS a few weeks back while visiting Florida. BMW had their demo fleet at the local dealer. I was shocked... at how uncomfortable it was for me. The ride was not long, 20 to 30 minutes, and that was all it took to have my back hurting. Ergos are just too cramped (for me). Nothing like the R100RS I owned many years ago. Even the the three oil-head RSs I owned were more comfortable ergo-wise. It has too small a fuel tank for longer distances. To me, a true RS needs to have a six-plus gallon tank like all the RSs I owned, and really, the RS should have the same level of weather protection the original R100RS had. I think the R1250RS is more "S" than "RS". Which is fine. One "problem" I always had with all the RSs I owned was, you really needed to be hauling butt to be truly comfortable. This was great when I was stationed in Germany. Not so much here in the States where low speed limits on regular roads rule (except Texas). On my RT I can slow down and still be comfortable.... and still wick it up in the twisties :)
Look forward to the Mandello /R1250RS comparo. Straight away I can say I prefer the fairing to the standard non-fairing version. Just add heated grips,seat and a top box - perfect day/weekend sports tourer with shaft drive - hate messy chains,they're a deal breaker.
I would agree with your criticism. BMW missed an opportunity to make the RS less touring and more sport orientated. The gearbox is probably the biggest technical "issue" with the boxer, but it's something you can work around. The shift lever likes quick forceful inputs that follow through to the stop (both directions). Quick shifter also works best above 4k, and 2nd to 1st is best achieved as a manual shift, always.
How would you make it more sport oriented? For 99% of the riders it is more sport capable then they are, and certainly more than you should be riding on public roadways anyway. BMW already makes 4-cylinder bikes that are 'more sport oriented', but the beauty of the RS is in how you get that kind of performance in a bike that's comfortable enough, and confidence inspiring, to be able to ride all day. I have an older R1150-RS, and I'm well away its dated in respect to power and technology, but what it has is decent power and handling in a bike I've taken for a weeks ride in the mountains of Virginia & W. Virginia, then ridden it back home over 900-km. in comfort. My brother has a newer R-1200-RS and has similar compliments to it as expressed in this review.
I have had both the RS 1250 and the GS 1250, the GS is superior to tour on. I think the RS is a little too small. It is Very Fast and does handle better than the GS, Great Video, Thanks
I haven't ridden the RS, however my GSA is ideal for 2 up riding and the wind deflection leaves me in a bubble of calm air. I have my ninja 1k for sport touring. However, I won my GS and if I were buying I'd heavily consider the RS just based on price.
Spot on, John! My, by no means humble, attitude towards many GS owners are that they desire to belong to a pack (of other GS riders), even if they don't ride like ones in need of a GS. Perfectly fine bikes by all means, but why get a hard on just to have something "fancy" to show off in the garage...
I've been on a BMW RS of some kind for over 40 yrs. A new one is on the way spec'd to my desires. I'd like to wait til the 1300/1400 water cooled aluminum frame version comes along but I need to get on with it at 68. More later. Twist the Grip, RTW.
Chops, you and Greg need to do a King of the Sports Tourer test… BMW 1250 RS vs Guzzi V100 mandello. Then Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX vs Suzuki GSX 1000 GT, Then a grand final head to head with the winner of each category, sound good 🤷🏻♂️??
Had a 2019 Sport model (no bells or whistles). Great motorway or long sweepy road bike, but never had any confidence in the front end and always seemed to be pushing and rolling rather than dropping into corners due to the (maybe too) low C of G. Not good enough for UK twisty roads and a PIA to heave about on an incline. I wasn't doing 2/3 European tours a year due to Covid, so sold it. Happy to have had it, but don't really miss it.
I'd agree the Guzzi Mandelo is the direct competitor to this RS BMW, but there is another sport touring contender that has been overlooked - the Ducati SuperSport 939. Admittedly the Ducati is a smaller machine, not as appropriate for two-up riding, but the payback is lighter weight and better twisty road capabilities.
One of the few if only bike journalist who can ride effortlessly at pace in a focused manner while being able to talk to an audience simultaneously, that's another level of ability right there
100% agree! I came from a Tracer after 5/6 years to a 1200RS and it is super agile, even from a 200kgs standard wheight (witch it have more 35/40) The smothness of the engine, the quick pull up from the go and the confort amaze me every day 👌✌️
I'm considering changing my Tracer 900 for the 1250RS. I love the Tracer a lot, but this bike really captivates me. Not just the tech differences but the reviews on comfort and that engine! The Tracer is a superb (in my opinion) bike but the RS might just tip the scales for me next years riding. Test ride time I think....
I also love the idea of the new Guzzi, but I live in Western Australia and my rides take me into the middle of nowhere. Last thing I want is a bike that makes me worried that it's not going to start. I Guzzis are better than they used to be, but still.....
You've answered the question about why the R1250R is overlooked🤣 If I had those roads, I'd definitely be in the market for the RS. Great video as usual!
Great review Chops. After several GS’s I bought an RS and what a revelation it was. I put 5500 miles on it around the Scottish roads in 6 months before I had to sell it because my knees are buggered (technical term). I swapped it for an R Nine T, which I also love, because the R NineT was easier to move around the garage and didn’t hurt my knee as much, but the RS was a stonking bike.
I ride a 7 year old K1300S. I was riding with a friend who bought the first iteration of this R1250 RS. The thing was so sharp through the bends I couldn’t keep him in sight. In a drag race it was a very close thing but in the twistiest it slayed my K.
I've ridden the 1200 and 1250RS but each time I've gone for a GS. The main reason being at 5'7" I found the reach to the bars to much, which then compromised my rear vision shoulder checks , couple this with the mirrors being further away than on the GS so the angle of vision available through them was less I just didn't feel it was for me even though it'a better road bike. At least BMW are FINALLY doing it in a decent colour scheme after years of mundane colours after they ditched the original Lupus Blue and White version.
Couldn't agree more re. colour scheme choices Adrian. About bloody time. Sick to death of 'any colour you like as long as it's some shade of grey or black (or' funeral blue')'. It's why I went for Austin Yellow - best of a bad bunch at the time.
Well, after fancying a new bike I decided a change away from a GS was in order as I wasn't going to pay well over £20k for another one, so test rides began. I tried the 1250R, but found a naked bike's wind blast just too much hard work and BMW offered the tubular bar option on the RS I have had my 1250RS SE for just under 12 months and find it to be a refreshing change from a GS. The weather protection and comfort are not as good as the GS and pillions would prefer the GS but for actual riding pleasure the RS wins. It's more compact, gives you more confidence and especially in the Motorrad colours it looks loverly. The only downsides are the crap OE screen which I've swapped for a Puig touring plus and repositioned the satnav to above the TFT. Sorted. And the best bit is the RS is thousands cheaper than an equivelent GS @NotNowCato1254
Great review, tempted but don’t think I could give up the GS’s endless luggage capacity for 2 up camping trips etc, looks stunning though. Good work LC.
I'm 100% with you. I also have a GS (my second one). On top of what you mentioned, I'd like to add the suspension travel on the GS (190/200mm vs 140/140mm) and the absence of the Telelever at the front would most likely make a difference on not-so-nice-like-in-Spain pavement. That said, the RS looks stunning and I would add it to my collection if I could. The RT is my next purchase...for touring purposes with the Lady.
Thanks for the great video. I am supposed to be taking delivery of a new R1250RS in two days. It will be my first new bike since a 1987 GSXR750. Your video confirmed what I pretty much knew: This IS the bike for me. I owned a 1983 Honda CB1100F back in the day. That was the best all-around bike that I've ever owned (out of 16). I don't understand why dealers seem to have many GS models, but seldom more than one RS. Apparently, the GS sells like crazy; I don't understand why. But what a superb review you've done. Kudos!
Came from a SDGT to this bike. Love it. Mine no heated seat and no lean angle TFT but other than that. That shaft drive is so nice on long trips. Put some Conti Road Attacks on it and bam. You are going to be able to really fly
@@arnofrom9350 my particular SDGT had many problems unfortunately. Starter, MTC, fuel pump. You name it. It had it. When it ran it was the best but it would break on long trips and that is unforgivable
Top tip, about 4:14 ish , the front brake doesn't do much when you're wheelie-ing ! But then you know that better than me, because you've almost certainly done way more wheelies than me !!!
I went to the London bike show determined not to buy another GS. But having sat on umpteen bikes including the RS that slightly greater legroom on the GS was sufficient to not sway me. The replacement GS arrived on Tuesday 😅
Interesting to find out how much money the fully spec’d BMW, full BMW factory support you were riding in sunny Spain compared to the dealer spec’d base model Moto Guzzi v100 you rode in a cold ( minus degrees) wet UK 🤔 ……. Just saying Chopsey 😉 ( ps I’m biased I bought the Moto Guzzi v100 s and absolutely love it 👍🏻)
Also, BMW quick shifters are a bit clunky out of the factory. My F900's one was awful, but an SC Project pipe and a tune made it buttery smooth. When I had it serviced a year back, they gave me an R1250r which also had an aftermarket products exhaust and the quick shifter was also much better than stock.
Just bought a late model R1200RS and the first things I want to change are bars to wider tubular bars and seat to higher seat….basically turning it into a GS Lol😂. Much preferred the legroom and all day comfort of my old GSA but the RS is lighter snd more flickable with better front end feel. I got fed up with the bulk of the GSA but if I can make the RS as comfortable then it will prove to be the best bike I’ve owned in 39 years of riding. Not the quickest, not the most sporty, not the best tourer but as a true all rounder it does everything well and in some ways betters the GS as the all round king. Adventure bikes are 99.9% used purely on road. The RS is the better road bike. Great review Chopsy👌
I have prior seriously considered R1200RS/R1250RS. So many rightly praise the GS models ...often with focus on the engine(s) & how they deliver. I see the relevance of the GS ...IF wanting a higher up riders eye view, to genuinelly venture off road or maybe better cope with dangerous condition UK roads. If able to be best proactive with UK road surface imperfections then arguably the RS models make more sense.
Great video I am sure we crossed path as you were testing this bikes . I feel the luckiest person in the world living at this beautiful landscape and tweeties .done this roads so many times and never ever get bored😅
MCN recently compared this to the Mandello and the Ninja 1000. Any chance when you do your comparison you could add the Kawasaki as well as I'm sure I'm not the only Ninja owner who would like to see how it compares in your opinion as its a bike you've not tested.
I have just downloaded the article and am quite disappointed by the very superficial approach, nowhere do they compare performance. What makes me doubt about the Mandello is that for the same weight it is 25 hp down on power compare to the Ninja and has got a shaft drive which is great but it also saps some power from the engine to the wheel. What really got me is that the journalist described the Ninja's engine as "lacking character" compared to the boxer. If there's something I cannot stand from motorcycle journalists is when they resort to "character" to describe an engine, for me it's even more subjective than aesthetics. I come from two years and 36000 km on a GS and I swapped it for the Ninja mainly because I found the inline-four much more agreeable, it's torquey (I ride mountain passes with mates on GS and the Ninja is the more agile bike), delivers more power, runs much smoother and has got the same range. I found the boxer drive-train not very refined, a lot of mechanical noise, the exhaust is much louder than the Kawasaki's specially with the hard panniers mounted and the gearbox of the BMW boxer models is very clunky. My QS was hard and had a lot of fails, I was told that it's the combination of the engine's layout with the shaft drive that makes for a difficult QS... anyhow I really like the proposition of the Mandello and will give it a try as my local Kawasaki dealer also sells MG.
Chops, with the quick shifter, for up shifts, use the clutch from 1st to 2nd, then the quick shifter for the rest of the upshits, making sure you are on the throttle and make the shift a quick assertive motion (quick shifter). On the down shifts make sure your off the throttle and again be quick and assertive, you should be able to go down all the way to 1st. I have the 2016 1200rs and never have had issues, the new 1250rs box is so much better.
I'd agree with that, but add that at a normal road pace a slight feathering of the throttle on the upshift will make it seamless. At least that works on my 2017 bike.
A question for you Chops, let’s say you’re mainly a road rider but you like sports bikes. Maybe you’d consider doing a track day but not often, but you love the looks and handling of a sports bike. So the question, RR or RS and why?
ive had one since 2019, chose this model due to a long test ride, local dealer is good, and wanting to get away from sportsbikes, i,m old now. I still love it, only complaints are, screen could be 2" inches taller even though i,m only 5.5" and its a little top heavy at very low speed, ive dropped it twice, happened very quickly and still cannot explain it. good video, love the look of those roads :).
Best RS review ever! Especially when in the last years the handling was often said to be lacking. Looks like the best sport tourer if you really go on multi week long trips because of the cardan drive. The new Moto Guzzi V100 is also pretty cool.
owned a 15 r1200rs , it was a gas to ride for a year ,suspension, travel a bit to short and stiff for multiple day rides , wore out rear shock in one year , bought a 15 tiger 800 , upgraded suspension with Wilber’s much more fun and comfortable,parts cheaper and easier to work on, not as fast.
I ride a Bonneville which I was complaining about yesterday because when I hit the twisties I want to push it and it’s, let’s say, a bit terrifying at times. Maybe my next bike needs to be a sports tourer.
Morning John, great timing this review, i'm off to demo an RS SE today !!!! just aside, the vid is stuttering for the first part but not enough to distract!! well done!
Had a GS, got the RS, the RS is a better bike for the road, as for the "quick shifter", it's described as "gear shift assist" by BMW and, as long as you're a little more firm with the lever, it works brilliantly, mines butter smooth up and down the box. There's a comment about the GS having better wind and weather protection, no it hasn't, if anything it's slightly less. As for standing up to stretch you legs, I do it as often as needed when I'm doing distance abroad but, I am a shortarse so it's arguably easier for me. Hands down one of the best bikes I've ever owned, so much so, I'll be having a 24 model around August time, to put that comment into perspective, I've been riding 50 years this year, ridden most things, raced in my younger days, and this RS is one of the best bikes you've never ridden.
Absolutely love the look of traditional sports tourers, and touring on a sport naked on multi-day motocamping trips doesn’t leave my back aching, but what does get to me after a while in the saddle at 6’2 is knee soreness. That’s reason alone may sway me towards a GS even though I’d rarely go off road, but then again, a few test rides on both bikes might tell me whether the knee bend on the RS is tolerable. I really DO like it…
Believe me at your height the knee bend on the RS will not be tolerable after a long day in the saddle. Speaking as an ex owner of one and just under 6 ft height😊
@@brianmcbain6997 man…that’s a bummer to hear, greatly appreciate the owner’s insight! Then again, no one will ever claim a GS is a poor consolation prize either, I’ve just never got on with the looks. Maybe the 1300 redesign will suit me better 😉
From the start Chopsie you make a brilliant point. The R 1250rs is a good looking bike and no doubt will sell, however, I would worry about taking it off road, GS 1250 also, in fact all big adventure bikes are way too heavy for off road. My dream would be a super sports bike and a proper muscle enduro like a Husqvarna 701 etc. I once bought a KTM 450 enduro, and instantly thought I shoulda got the 600, these days we have massive choice
picked up mine 1st April 2023..(now 04/04/23). after only a few short hours in the saddle i could not agree more. absolutely fantastic bike. coming from an FJR13300 and a Z1000SX this 1250RS blows them away. just to say, i would have bought the RS on the back of that review.. lol
Great roads, wish I had some like that on my doorstep! I’ve been riding for 40 years and for the last 10 years I’ve not owned a car and use my bike for commuting & pleasure. I average 11,000 miles per year - small commute to work, twisties every Sunday, & long boring motorway miles to BSB races, and a few European excursions My current bike is a 2021 1250RS, prior to that I had an XR1000, and before that I had a GS1200. For me the RS is easily the best in every aspect especially handling & comfort, and most importantly smiles per mile! (Yeah the XR has more power but the GS & RS have power & torque where you need it)
Another quality review. I had a 2022 1250RS and loved it . I guess I’m just use to adv style bikes and have test ridden a 2023 1250GS Trophy and put a deposit down on one. I find the GS better for all round riding, though I do think the RS is more stable in high speed sweepers. That engine is a pearler .
I've taken my R1200rs offroad.... Surprise surprise, almost every bike can do tarmac, unpaved roads, and light offroad.... Like any SUV does.... I also have a 1250GSA and the only comparison it's with a 4x4 Jeep, I do Trails and heavy offroad on it, very long distances. The RS is my daily conmuter and the GSA my weekend Warrior. 😎
I totally get and agree with your sentiments about using an ADV bike as an ST for riding sealed roads. Why, when you can get the better bike for paved road touring through the good road areas, like highland and mountain roads? I found your observation that the GS rider had to take wider lines interesting. The lean forward position is the better ergonomically as well as for handling. Better aerodynamics too, for less fatigue at the end of the day. The RS' 18litre fuel tank however, does limit range, which when having fun in the twisties, is always a concern.
I know a chap who has a 999R Ducati, remember them, he also just got one of the final editions of the Panigale V2 in the nice paint scheme, and just about to get delivery of a V4R, with race pipes and the special thin oil from Shell £45,000, but he did get a handsome trade in for his BMW HP4.👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍🇬🇧
Another great real world bike test, love the content, really looking forward to the comparison test between the Moto Guzzi V100 Mondello and the R1250RS...... hurry up and make that happen 😊😊
I totally agree with you on which bike is better for the road, it's the RS all day long. Let's face it, here in the UK, not many will be taking their very expensive, fully laden, GS off-road-maybe a car park or a campsite and that'll be it!
So many people don’t understand how to correctly use the gear box. If you have the quick shifter and are using the clutch, you are essentially trying to tell the bike to do three things and once and it just answers in the fashion of your request, stupidly.
Awesome ride & scenery sir! I own a GS 1250 and very pleased with my swissknife especially in dynamic mode. Curious to try a 1250 RS. I am 6 feet tall with an inseam of 34 inches, would I feel tucked-up? Thank you for this review! Marc, Quebec, Canada 🇨🇦😉🏍
It's a crying shame Yamaha is no longer supporting the FJR. I own a 2018 and they are awesome bikes for a fraction of the price of other bikes in its category.
The last time I rode one of these was 2 years ago and after a motorway stint of 30 miles my back was aching. So I bought the 900xr. But I think it deserves another go when the warranty is up on my "Little" 900XR. I was dead set on a GS but maybe that's because I watch too many Teapot videos...
How would this bike compare to the current FJR1300ES in terms of comfort and vibration? I know it wins hands down for features like the quick shifter but the riding position would be different?
Yeah Im very very much intriqued by this bike. Mostly cause my current bike, the 1250 gsa, kills my ass on long tours, I wanna see if a proper touringbike makes a difference. So I will for sure testride when I can. But I also wanna try the new tracer gt +, cause that's interesting too
I recently bought an XR, but it was a toss up between that and this 1250 rs. The determining factor was comfort, the XR just has so much more leg room for me at 6'6".
Can't wait to watch that comparison as both are on my shortlist to replace my R1200R LC. I previously chose the naked R version as it felt so much more agile and a fly screen enabled touring to South of Spain regularly and trips to Poland and Malta no problem. Why buy a GS? Simple, you get to act like an adventure hero on your way to Waitrose
I owned a K1200 GT & while a great long distance bike, find my GS to be much more fun due to it versatility. Changing tires back and forth from knobbies to touring sucks but other than that the bike really does do it all.
Hey Chopsy. You do the bike tests/reviews in some beautiful countries. I love your vids, just amazing. Nicely detailed with awesome bikes and amazing backdrops. I am wondering how you would compare the RS to the RT. How close is the RT in the twisties? And how comfy is the RS? I’m writing this from down under (Australia) I’m torn between the two. We have long distances between towns especially on a big tour. I will be using it more as a commuter with a bit of a weekend fun once a month or so.
The reason people prefer adventure bikes over sports tourers is that there is better wind/weather protection, more leg room, much comfier, more pillion room, they handle our crap road surfaces better and you can ride stood up to stretch your legs. It's not all about if you go off road or not. Modern Adv bikes handle so well, so the average rider (like myself) can probably go as fast as they would on a sports tourer. I've always liked sports tourers and decided to trade in my GS for a KTM 1290 superduke GT for the same reasons you mentioned in the vid. After 1.5 years I've traded the GT in for a KTM Super Adventure S because I've come to the conclusion that there is no better all round, do it all bike than an adventure bike.
It's getting a bit boring with some youtubers telling adventure bike riders that they don't use it for what its intended, or they have bought the wrong bike. Give people some credit for knowing what they want from a bike.
If someone had told me I should skip my adventure bike time and go straight to the RS I could have saved money. The RS fits me better and when I did take my GS on forestry roads, there was dust everywhere, it was heavy as hell and I was too focussed on riding, standing, technique etc. It was not relaxing and peaceful. That's what my mountain bike is for. I totally hear you about the weather protection, comfort for taller folk - the RS definitely is smaller but for me, it's utterly perfect and so much prettier.
"they handle our crap road surfaces better" - ding ding
I routinely stand up on the pegs on my RS to occasionally relieve my left knee. Got a 300 mile ride planned for this Friday. Saturday will ride to the Concrete Fly-in. The RS is totally where it's at!
Which handles better, the RS or the GS?
@@holdencaulfied7492The RS, by a mile. Had both.
I and my R1250RS agree. For me, no better bike exists, and having owned a K1200RS and a R1100RS prior to this, possibly no better line of bikes. So pleased to see it getting some overdue attention.
An engine with a century of refinement on a platform with its own 40 year history. She's a big girl but after you get beyond that, a tremendous all rounder that loves high speed sweepers.
The massive torque of the 1250 Shiftcam is just a cherry on top. Total joy to ride.
I own a 2002 K1200rs and absolutely love it.
I am curious- how does the 20 year old K bike feel compared to the newer R1250RS? Is there anything you like about the K bike more?
@@LucasMuniz294 I had a new 2004 K1200GT, (last of the K1200RSs with some bits added), great bike but not a patch on the 1250RS which is a much more refined bike.
@@LucasMuniz294 Engine:
The R is 98 lbs lighter, with 6 more HP, 19 more ft-lbs of torque, and 11 MPG better gas mileage. The torque/weight difference means it can bolt away from a stop like a beast and enjoys lighter and more nimble handling at low speeds. It's geared differently though and while it pulls well into 110s and low 120s it hits a wall around 130 MPH and quickly loses steam. Power delivery gets buzzy at high RPM on the R where it doesn't on the K. R is more fun within legal speed limits, K is more fun outside of them. With an aftermarket exhaust I feel the R sounds better; K always sounded like an angry sewing machine to me.
Fueling is superior -- you can put it in any gear and let RPMs go down to idle and it'll happily chug along even up a gradient and not complain. Torque is out of this world great. Servicing is a breeze compared to the K -- can do your own valve checks in a half hour. Clutch replacements just require removing an engine cover plate, not separating the tranmission from the engine anymore. Excellent tuning kits available from companies like Brenntune to easily take things to the next level if desired.
Ergos:
K has slightly more leg rooom. RS no longer has multi-positional seat (or handlebars, or footpegs) and now you need to buy different $500 seat options from BMW for different heights. I'm 6'4" and was more comfortable on the K in highest seat positon than I am on R with sport (tallest) seat. Bars are lower on R meaning a slightly more agressive lean angle now; I put Heli risers on mine but didn't need them on the K. Seat is higher quality/more comfortable to my butt. Wind buffeting is worse -- you're going to want an aftermarket screen (I use an MRA Variotouring).
Other:
My K1200RS's OEM hard luggage had less space than my R1100RS and this is even less. Color-matched colored covers now, so that's a plus. Can still fit a full face helmet in rear case and another in left side, but everything else feels mroe cramped.
Get a GS and you will say the same
@@Pyrrho_ thanks for the detailed response! I appreciate it. Safe riding out there man!
I bought my RS a couple of months back. So it's a 2022 Lite White sports with the red frame, full electronic suspension and all the bells and whistles including the Akrapovic exhaust. I did also buy the full luggage pack, panniers, top box and tank bag, for touring. The ease that these items come off is great also that they come with full internal bags is awesome. Now that mine is run in I can unleash the beast within the boxer. Anyone who doesn't like this has rocks for brains.
Gotta be one of the most overlooked and underappreciated bikes out there. The want is strong for this one. Great video 👍
Great review thank you. I had a test ride of the RS at Ardens of Tunbridge Wells and loved it. As I’ve no intention of going off-road and measuring under 5’6 this bike fits. Taking delivery of my RS on 8th April😀 and touring with it in Germany and Spain this summer.
How do you like it so far? Thank you.
I own this bike in blue(2020) as a replacement of a GSA (which got stolen from my garage 😡🥴) I use it as a daily rider amd Love it. Extremely versatile and has no problems keeping up with my buddies’ Ducatis and aprilias on trips (which I do on a single gas tank fill while they have to refuel once)! Great bike that I fully recommend 👍🏼! Great video and I’m impressed with lambchop for picking up the only few small issues so fast! PS The quick shift and gearbox improve a lot after breaking-in the bike
Love a good sport tourer! If you have not yet had a chance, you really need to make a trip to ride British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. Twisties and beauty everywhere.
Thanks for a thought-provoking review. Here in the eastern US, there are so many scenic mountain and forest roads that happen to be unpaved. For that reason, and the reason I’m 6’3”, the GS is the obvious choice for me. If I wanted to limit myself to paved roads, the RS would be more fun. Thanks again.
i'm definitely extremely interested in seeing the 1250RS and V100 go up against each other head-to-head. these two bikes are the only sport touring machines i'm currently considering. Spain would certainly be best, but where ever you can do a comparo will have to do. keep up the good work mate...
Shhhhh Chopsy, it’s BMWs secret tool. Every bugger will be buying them instead of GSs now ! Great bike, no issues with the quickshifter blipper in the higher gears, just a bit clunky at times 1-3rd up, no issues going down the box. Loving mine, will prob get another when they put the 1300 engine in it in a few yrs time - just wish our roads would dry out like the Spanish ones atm
I have no idea why you would buy the 1300 when the 1250 engine has so much to offer and this bike cannot be ridden to it's limit on public roads. Unless you wear it out ;)
@@wandering_armadillo probably because they’ll stop making the 1250 and superceed it with a 1300 engine 🤷🏻♂️
1300 is on the way. There are leaked photos from testing unit plus website leak with 1300 and 1400 models...
@@wandering_armadillo it will have the adaptive cruise control is one good reason for covering long distance on motorways/freeways/Autobahns.
I'm thinking the same thing and keeping my R1250RS to rent out.
Another great review! BMWs most overlooked bike, the R1250RS, is probably the best all around road bike they make. I would buy lower bars and raise the rear sets so it fit me a little better but the chassis is great and that 1250 engine is a phenomenal, fun powerplant for road riding.
Careful not to fall for that legendary BMW mythos, and hospitality, Chopsie 😊 Kudos, again, for at least honestly reporting, albeit briefly, the "slightly agricultural gearbox" and so so quickshifter and autoblipper. Kudos, too, for correctly nailing the sports tourer vs GS suitability for 90% of people who buy that land barge convinced they're riding the best vehicle on the planet.
It will be interesting to see the comparison test with the Guzzi, as I am pretty sure the gearbox and shaft drive are superior on the new Marandello. Plus, it doesn't have the cheapo stickers that save BMW a fortune finishing their bikes off.
Ridden a lot of bikes and the RS checks the most boxes. Sporty, comfortable, tourer, luggage flexibility, passenger comfort, daily rider. Great all around.
Can’t wait to see you get a chance on a similarly nice day giving the V100 Mandello S a proper go. From what I’ve seen it’s miles better than the regular Mandello. Although this BMW should be better technically, but not in looks. The Guzzi is beautiful I’d take it for sure.
Great review Chopsy, you really get the bike. I have a 2022 version (essentially the same) & love it, HOWEVER there are caveats. You rode & liked it on fantastic Spanish roads - I live in Spain (Valencia) & have endless kilometres of circuit quality uncluttered roads on my doorstep, not to mention the weather & this bike makes total sense, you can really get the most from it. If I were back in the UK the outlook would be different - not so good, congested roads & speed cameras galore, so maybe there a GS (e.g.) might make more sense. Keep up the great vids💪✌
If you like feeling super connected to the Moto, or you love really riding hard on the track (not on this, but i’ve seen them on the track) and don’t line being a human wind sail on an ADV style bike, the RS, the Ducati Supersport, the Guzzi v100 are the way to go
Great review as always; it’s so nice to watch content from someone who has been riding almost as long as me! That depth of experience really shows through, and puts you ahead of most of the other You Tubers, who have only been riding a few years. Keep up the good work.
Another fantastic review, thanks 007. I know 2 adventure bike owners and neither venture off tarmac. Both put comfort ahead of handling. The last bike I rode with a 19” front wheel (and back wheel too) was my 1975 Norton 850 Commando.
I finally test rode the 2023 RS a few weeks back while visiting Florida. BMW had their demo fleet at the local dealer. I was shocked... at how uncomfortable it was for me. The ride was not long, 20 to 30 minutes, and that was all it took to have my back hurting. Ergos are just too cramped (for me). Nothing like the R100RS I owned many years ago. Even the the three oil-head RSs I owned were more comfortable ergo-wise. It has too small a fuel tank for longer distances. To me, a true RS needs to have a six-plus gallon tank like all the RSs I owned, and really, the RS should have the same level of weather protection the original R100RS had. I think the R1250RS is more "S" than "RS". Which is fine. One "problem" I always had with all the RSs I owned was, you really needed to be hauling butt to be truly comfortable. This was great when I was stationed in Germany. Not so much here in the States where low speed limits on regular roads rule (except Texas). On my RT I can slow down and still be comfortable.... and still wick it up in the twisties :)
After briefly owning an earlier RS , I went back to the RT which is more practical for long distance touring.
Look forward to the Mandello /R1250RS comparo. Straight away I can say I prefer the fairing to the standard non-fairing version. Just add heated grips,seat and a top box - perfect day/weekend sports tourer with shaft drive - hate messy chains,they're a deal breaker.
I would agree with your criticism. BMW missed an opportunity to make the RS less touring and more sport orientated. The gearbox is probably the biggest technical "issue" with the boxer, but it's something you can work around. The shift lever likes quick forceful inputs that follow through to the stop (both directions). Quick shifter also works best above 4k, and 2nd to 1st is best achieved as a manual shift, always.
I'm glad you spoke up about the nuances of the quick shifter- it has utility that has to be explained.
How would you make it more sport oriented? For 99% of the riders it is more sport capable then they are, and certainly more than you should be riding on public roadways anyway. BMW already makes 4-cylinder bikes that are 'more sport oriented', but the beauty of the RS is in how you get that kind of performance in a bike that's comfortable enough, and confidence inspiring, to be able to ride all day.
I have an older R1150-RS, and I'm well away its dated in respect to power and technology, but what it has is decent power and handling in a bike I've taken for a weeks ride in the mountains of Virginia & W. Virginia, then ridden it back home over 900-km. in comfort. My brother has a newer R-1200-RS and has similar compliments to it as expressed in this review.
Less touring and more sport oriented= S1000XR
I have had both the RS 1250 and the GS 1250, the GS is superior to tour on. I think the RS is a little too small. It is Very Fast and does handle better than the GS, Great Video, Thanks
I haven't ridden the RS, however my GSA is ideal for 2 up riding and the wind deflection leaves me in a bubble of calm air. I have my ninja 1k for sport touring.
However, I won my GS and if I were buying I'd heavily consider the RS just based on price.
Spot on, John! My, by no means humble, attitude towards many GS owners are that they desire to belong to a pack (of other GS riders), even if they don't ride like ones in need of a GS. Perfectly fine bikes by all means, but why get a hard on just to have something "fancy" to show off in the garage...
I've been on a BMW RS of some kind for over 40 yrs. A new one is on the way spec'd to my desires. I'd like to wait til the 1300/1400 water cooled aluminum frame version comes along but I need to get on with it at 68. More later. Twist the Grip, RTW.
Chops, you and Greg need to do a King of the Sports Tourer test…
BMW 1250 RS vs Guzzi V100 mandello.
Then Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX vs Suzuki GSX 1000 GT, Then a grand final head to head with the winner of each category, sound good 🤷🏻♂️??
When you do the head to head with the Guzzi it should be with the Mandello with the Öhlins
Had a 2019 Sport model (no bells or whistles). Great motorway or long sweepy road bike, but never had any confidence in the front end and always seemed to be pushing and rolling rather than dropping into corners due to the (maybe too) low C of G. Not good enough for UK twisty roads and a PIA to heave about on an incline. I wasn't doing 2/3 European tours a year due to Covid, so sold it. Happy to have had it, but don't really miss it.
Please consider adding the KTM SDGT to your comparison comments. Love your review - thank you!
Looking forward to the comparison with the V100 😊
I'd agree the Guzzi Mandelo is the direct competitor to this RS BMW, but there is another sport touring contender that has been overlooked - the Ducati SuperSport 939. Admittedly the Ducati is a smaller machine, not as appropriate for two-up riding, but the payback is lighter weight and better twisty road capabilities.
One of the few if only bike journalist who can ride effortlessly at pace in a focused manner while being able to talk to an audience simultaneously, that's another level of ability right there
Absolutely Chops track experience makes it possible
@talking rock as a biker of 25+ years I approve your message
100% agree!
I came from a Tracer after 5/6 years to a 1200RS and it is super agile, even from a 200kgs standard wheight (witch it have more 35/40)
The smothness of the engine, the quick pull up from the go and the confort amaze me every day 👌✌️
I'm considering changing my Tracer 900 for the 1250RS. I love the Tracer a lot, but this bike really captivates me. Not just the tech differences but the reviews on comfort and that engine! The Tracer is a superb (in my opinion) bike but the RS might just tip the scales for me next years riding. Test ride time I think....
I reckon you are spot on with your comment. I suspect a lot of riders buy the wrong GS for their needs....
I also love the idea of the new Guzzi, but I live in Western Australia and my rides take me into the middle of nowhere.
Last thing I want is a bike that makes me worried that it's not going to start.
I Guzzis are better than they used to be, but still.....
You've answered the question about why the R1250R is overlooked🤣 If I had those roads, I'd definitely be in the market for the RS. Great video as usual!
Great review Chops. After several GS’s I bought an RS and what a revelation it was. I put 5500 miles on it around the Scottish roads in 6 months before I had to sell it because my knees are buggered (technical term). I swapped it for an R Nine T, which I also love, because the R NineT was easier to move around the garage and didn’t hurt my knee as much, but the RS was a stonking bike.
I ride a 7 year old K1300S. I was riding with a friend who bought the first iteration of this R1250 RS. The thing was so sharp through the bends I couldn’t keep him in sight. In a drag race it was a very close thing but in the twistiest it slayed my K.
I've ridden the 1200 and 1250RS but each time I've gone for a GS. The main reason being at 5'7" I found the reach to the bars to much, which then compromised my rear vision shoulder checks , couple this with the mirrors being further away than on the GS so the angle of vision available through them was less I just didn't feel it was for me even though it'a better road bike. At least BMW are FINALLY doing it in a decent colour scheme after years of mundane colours after they ditched the original Lupus Blue and White version.
Couldn't agree more re. colour scheme choices Adrian. About bloody time. Sick to death of 'any colour you like as long as it's some shade of grey or black (or' funeral blue')'. It's why I went for Austin Yellow - best of a bad bunch at the time.
Well, after fancying a new bike I decided a change away from a GS was in order as I wasn't going to pay well over £20k for another one, so test rides began. I tried the 1250R, but found a naked bike's wind blast just too much hard work and BMW offered the tubular bar option on the RS I have had my 1250RS SE for just under 12 months and find it to be a refreshing change from a GS. The weather protection and comfort are not as good as the GS and pillions would prefer the GS but for actual riding pleasure the RS wins. It's more compact, gives you more confidence and especially in the Motorrad colours it looks loverly. The only downsides are the crap OE screen which I've swapped for a Puig touring plus and repositioned the satnav to above the TFT. Sorted. And the best bit is the RS is thousands cheaper than an equivelent GS @NotNowCato1254
Great review, tempted but don’t think I could give up the GS’s endless luggage capacity for 2 up camping trips etc, looks stunning though. Good work LC.
I'm 100% with you. I also have a GS (my second one). On top of what you mentioned, I'd like to add the suspension travel on the GS (190/200mm vs 140/140mm) and the absence of the Telelever at the front would most likely make a difference on not-so-nice-like-in-Spain pavement. That said, the RS looks stunning and I would add it to my collection if I could. The RT is my next purchase...for touring purposes with the Lady.
I owned one of these and a GS, GS all day long for me.. much prefer the tele lever front fork.. great review
Thanks for the great video. I am supposed to be taking delivery of a new R1250RS in two days. It will be my first new bike since a 1987 GSXR750. Your video confirmed what I pretty much knew: This IS the bike for me. I owned a 1983 Honda CB1100F back in the day. That was the best all-around bike that I've ever owned (out of 16). I don't understand why dealers seem to have many GS models, but seldom more than one RS. Apparently, the GS sells like crazy; I don't understand why. But what a superb review you've done. Kudos!
Came from a SDGT to this bike. Love it. Mine no heated seat and no lean angle TFT but other than that. That shaft drive is so nice on long trips. Put some Conti Road Attacks on it and bam. You are going to be able to really fly
Considering this as well. No regrets? What made you decide to change?
@@arnofrom9350 my particular SDGT had many problems unfortunately. Starter, MTC, fuel pump. You name it. It had it. When it ran it was the best but it would break on long trips and that is unforgivable
Top tip, about 4:14 ish , the front brake doesn't do much when you're wheelie-ing ! But then you know that better than me, because you've almost certainly done way more wheelies than me !!!
Totally enjoy my R1250R with bags, proper windscreen, and hand guards for hot rodding and touring👍
If you had to choose between this and the Kawasaki 1000SX for a trip to Spain, which one would you choose?
Lambchop is also a razor facing left both are vertical
“Tuesday”
Andy Hill weather
This is a lambchop razor its different looking to the cut throat
I went to the London bike show determined not to buy another GS. But having sat on umpteen bikes including the RS that slightly greater legroom on the GS was sufficient to not sway me. The replacement GS arrived on Tuesday 😅
r1200RS owner here...Hugely underrated bikes... this and the R. Great machines.
Interesting to find out how much money the fully spec’d BMW, full BMW factory support you were riding in sunny Spain compared to the dealer spec’d base model Moto Guzzi v100 you rode in a cold ( minus degrees) wet UK 🤔 ……. Just saying Chopsey 😉 ( ps I’m biased I bought the Moto Guzzi v100 s and absolutely love it 👍🏻)
Would you have one over the Superduke GT? Similar price.
Also, BMW quick shifters are a bit clunky out of the factory. My F900's one was awful, but an SC Project pipe and a tune made it buttery smooth.
When I had it serviced a year back, they gave me an R1250r which also had an aftermarket products exhaust and the quick shifter was also much better than stock.
-Glad you had so much enjoyment on this. I would have been grinding my teeth constantly coming up behind riders like that.
Just bought a late model R1200RS and the first things I want to change are bars to wider tubular bars and seat to higher seat….basically turning it into a GS Lol😂. Much preferred the legroom and all day comfort of my old GSA but the RS is lighter snd more flickable with better front end feel. I got fed up with the bulk of the GSA but if I can make the RS as comfortable then it will prove to be the best bike I’ve owned in 39 years of riding. Not the quickest, not the most sporty, not the best tourer but as a true all rounder it does everything well and in some ways betters the GS as the all round king. Adventure bikes are 99.9% used purely on road. The RS is the better road bike. Great review Chopsy👌
I have prior seriously considered R1200RS/R1250RS.
So many rightly praise the GS models ...often with focus on the engine(s) & how they deliver.
I see the relevance of the GS ...IF wanting a higher up riders eye view, to genuinelly venture off road or maybe better cope with dangerous condition UK roads.
If able to be best proactive with UK road surface imperfections then arguably the RS models make more sense.
Rode this one and also the R model. The R feels better for taller persons, otherwise both very good bikes. Nice video. Got my like. Cheers.
Great video I am sure we crossed path as you were testing this bikes . I feel the luckiest person in the world living at this beautiful landscape and tweeties .done this roads so many times and never ever get bored😅
MCN recently compared this to the Mandello and the Ninja 1000. Any chance when you do your comparison you could add the Kawasaki as well as I'm sure I'm not the only Ninja owner who would like to see how it compares in your opinion as its a bike you've not tested.
I second that. Not living in the UK, what was MCN's verdict?
I have just downloaded the article and am quite disappointed by the very superficial approach, nowhere do they compare performance. What makes me doubt about the Mandello is that for the same weight it is 25 hp down on power compare to the Ninja and has got a shaft drive which is great but it also saps some power from the engine to the wheel. What really got me is that the journalist described the Ninja's engine as "lacking character" compared to the boxer. If there's something I cannot stand from motorcycle journalists is when they resort to "character" to describe an engine, for me it's even more subjective than aesthetics. I come from two years and 36000 km on a GS and I swapped it for the Ninja mainly because I found the inline-four much more agreeable, it's torquey (I ride mountain passes with mates on GS and the Ninja is the more agile bike), delivers more power, runs much smoother and has got the same range. I found the boxer drive-train not very refined, a lot of mechanical noise, the exhaust is much louder than the Kawasaki's specially with the hard panniers mounted and the gearbox of the BMW boxer models is very clunky. My QS was hard and had a lot of fails, I was told that it's the combination of the engine's layout with the shaft drive that makes for a difficult QS... anyhow I really like the proposition of the Mandello and will give it a try as my local Kawasaki dealer also sells MG.
Chops, with the quick shifter, for up shifts, use the clutch from 1st to 2nd, then the quick shifter for the rest of the upshits, making sure you are on the throttle and make the shift a quick assertive motion (quick shifter). On the down shifts make sure your off the throttle and again be quick and assertive, you should be able to go down all the way to 1st. I have the 2016 1200rs and never have had issues, the new 1250rs box is so much better.
I'd agree with that, but add that at a normal road pace a slight feathering of the throttle on the upshift will make it seamless. At least that works on my 2017 bike.
@@Nick10407 Yes Nick, I agree with you also!
Also agree on that point Nick. Up shifts on a positive throttle are certainly smoother if you're not at WOT.
A question for you Chops, let’s say you’re mainly a road rider but you like sports bikes. Maybe you’d consider doing a track day but not often, but you love the looks and handling of a sports bike. So the question, RR or RS and why?
I like the look of the RS way more than the GS. The GS has so much external 'pipework' they look like they should be serviced by a plumber.😂
ive had one since 2019, chose this model due to a long test ride, local dealer is good, and wanting to get away from sportsbikes, i,m old now. I still love it, only complaints are, screen could be 2" inches taller even though i,m only 5.5" and its a little top heavy at very low speed, ive dropped it twice, happened very quickly and still cannot explain it. good video, love the look of those roads :).
Best RS review ever! Especially when in the last years the handling was often said to be lacking. Looks like the best sport tourer if you really go on multi week long trips because of the cardan drive. The new Moto Guzzi V100 is also pretty cool.
Great review LCR and definitely make sure it’s on a fair playing field against the Mandello S. The Ohlins on the V100 make the world of difference.
owned a 15 r1200rs , it was a gas to ride for a year ,suspension, travel a bit to short and stiff for multiple day rides , wore out rear shock in one year , bought a 15 tiger 800 , upgraded suspension with Wilber’s much more fun and comfortable,parts cheaper and easier to work on, not as fast.
Engine is longitudinally mounted, not transverse. The same with Moto guzzi.
Regular Motorcycle engines are transverse.
What’s a “Regular Motorcycle “?
I ride a Bonneville which I was complaining about yesterday because when I hit the twisties I want to push it and it’s, let’s say, a bit terrifying at times. Maybe my next bike needs to be a sports tourer.
Nice that you’re finding it possible to get to these launches now. Enjoyable review as yours always are.
Morning John, great timing this review, i'm off to demo an RS SE today !!!! just aside, the vid is stuttering for the first part but not enough to distract!! well done!
Had a GS, got the RS, the RS is a better bike for the road, as for the "quick shifter", it's described as "gear shift assist" by BMW and, as long as you're a little more firm with the lever, it works brilliantly, mines butter smooth up and down the box. There's a comment about the GS having better wind and weather protection, no it hasn't, if anything it's slightly less. As for standing up to stretch you legs, I do it as often as needed when I'm doing distance abroad but, I am a shortarse so it's arguably easier for me. Hands down one of the best bikes I've ever owned, so much so, I'll be having a 24 model around August time, to put that comment into perspective, I've been riding 50 years this year, ridden most things, raced in my younger days, and this RS is one of the best bikes you've never ridden.
Absolutely love the look of traditional sports tourers, and touring on a sport naked on multi-day motocamping trips doesn’t leave my back aching, but what does get to me after a while in the saddle at 6’2 is knee soreness. That’s reason alone may sway me towards a GS even though I’d rarely go off road, but then again, a few test rides on both bikes might tell me whether the knee bend on the RS is tolerable. I really DO like it…
Believe me at your height the knee bend on the RS will not be tolerable after a long day in the saddle. Speaking as an ex owner of one and just under 6 ft height😊
@@brianmcbain6997 man…that’s a bummer to hear, greatly appreciate the owner’s insight! Then again, no one will ever claim a GS is a poor consolation prize either, I’ve just never got on with the looks. Maybe the 1300 redesign will suit me better 😉
From the start Chopsie you make a brilliant point. The R 1250rs is a good looking bike and no doubt will sell, however, I would worry about taking it off road, GS 1250 also, in fact all big adventure bikes are way too heavy for off road. My dream would be a super sports bike and a proper muscle enduro like a Husqvarna 701 etc. I once bought a KTM 450 enduro, and instantly thought I shoulda got the 600, these days we have massive choice
An rs is not for taking off road and probably not a gs either are you still waiting for extradition?
Your review is great as usuall) thanks a lot! i'm waiting for a long term test in the UK of this wonderfull bike)
picked up mine 1st April 2023..(now 04/04/23). after only a few short hours in the saddle i could not agree more. absolutely fantastic bike. coming from an FJR13300 and a Z1000SX this 1250RS blows them away. just to say, i would have bought the RS on the back of that review.. lol
Love this bike. It's been on my radar for years. I bought the Japanese poor man version though, the GSX-S1000GT+.
I had the opportunity to buy whatever I wanted and went with the Suzuki. It’s the perfect road bike.
Great roads, wish I had some like that on my doorstep! I’ve been riding for 40 years and for the last 10 years I’ve not owned a car and use my bike for commuting & pleasure. I average 11,000 miles per year - small commute to work, twisties every Sunday, & long boring motorway miles to BSB races, and a few European excursions
My current bike is a 2021 1250RS, prior to that I had an XR1000, and before that I had a GS1200.
For me the RS is easily the best in every aspect especially handling & comfort, and most importantly smiles per mile! (Yeah the XR has more power but the GS & RS have power & torque where you need it)
Another quality review. I had a 2022 1250RS and loved it . I guess I’m just use to adv style bikes and have test ridden a 2023 1250GS Trophy and put a deposit down on one. I find the GS better for all round riding, though I do think the RS is more stable in high speed sweepers.
That engine is a pearler .
RT is aprox %40 more expensive from RS in our country. Dou you think is worth it ? Mostly for long not very fast tours ,less sport drive
I've taken my R1200rs offroad.... Surprise surprise, almost every bike can do tarmac, unpaved roads, and light offroad.... Like any SUV does.... I also have a 1250GSA and the only comparison it's with a 4x4 Jeep, I do Trails and heavy offroad on it, very long distances. The RS is my daily conmuter and the GSA my weekend Warrior. 😎
I totally get and agree with your sentiments about using an ADV bike as an ST for riding sealed roads. Why, when you can get the better bike for paved road touring through the good road areas, like highland and mountain roads? I found your observation that the GS rider had to take wider lines interesting. The lean forward position is the better ergonomically as well as for handling. Better aerodynamics too, for less fatigue at the end of the day. The RS' 18litre fuel tank however, does limit range, which when having fun in the twisties, is always a concern.
I know a chap who has a 999R Ducati, remember them, he also just got one of the final editions of the Panigale V2 in the nice paint scheme, and just about to get delivery of a V4R, with race pipes and the special thin oil from Shell £45,000, but he did get a handsome trade in for his BMW HP4.👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍🇬🇧
Another great real world bike test, love the content, really looking forward to the comparison test between the Moto Guzzi V100 Mondello and the R1250RS...... hurry up and make that happen 😊😊
Hi Chopsie I bought one! Didn’t want to follow the sheep in the GS flock 😅 Love it
I totally agree with you on which bike is better for the road, it's the RS all day long. Let's face it, here in the UK, not many will be taking their very expensive, fully laden, GS off-road-maybe a car park or a campsite and that'll be it!
So many people don’t understand how to correctly use the gear box. If you have the quick shifter and are using the clutch, you are essentially trying to tell the bike to do three things and once and it just answers in the fashion of your request, stupidly.
Bike looks good ,how's the quick shifter, any improvement or still clunky?
Beautiful roads stunning weather,
What more can anyone ask for,
Awesome ride & scenery sir! I own a GS 1250 and very pleased with my swissknife especially in dynamic mode. Curious to try a 1250 RS. I am 6 feet tall with an inseam of 34 inches, would I feel tucked-up?
Thank you for this review! Marc, Quebec, Canada 🇨🇦😉🏍
Love your videos Man FJR Yamaha that should be in the comparison also even though it's on its way out think about it
It's a crying shame Yamaha is no longer supporting the FJR. I own a 2018 and they are awesome bikes for a fraction of the price of other bikes in its category.
The last time I rode one of these was 2 years ago and after a motorway stint of 30 miles my back was aching. So I bought the 900xr. But I think it deserves another go when the warranty is up on my "Little" 900XR. I was dead set on a GS but maybe that's because I watch too many Teapot videos...
How would this bike compare to the current FJR1300ES in terms of comfort and vibration? I know it wins hands down for features like the quick shifter but the riding position would be different?
I have an ‘09 RT and ‘90 RS. Isn’t comparing a GS to a RS like comparing apple to orange?
Beautiful roads and scenery....and no potholes ad cracks .
Yeah Im very very much intriqued by this bike. Mostly cause my current bike, the 1250 gsa, kills my ass on long tours, I wanna see if a proper touringbike makes a difference. So I will for sure testride when I can. But I also wanna try the new tracer gt +, cause that's interesting too
I recently bought an XR, but it was a toss up between that and this 1250 rs. The determining factor was comfort, the XR just has so much more leg room for me at 6'6".
Great roads! And review! What clamp do you use on the mirror stem? I want one!
Can't wait to watch that comparison as both are on my shortlist to replace my R1200R LC. I previously chose the naked R version as it felt so much more agile and a fly screen enabled touring to South of Spain regularly and trips to Poland and Malta no problem. Why buy a GS? Simple, you get to act like an adventure hero on your way to Waitrose
Great review and I’d have the RS over the GS anyday
I owned a K1200 GT & while a great long distance bike, find my GS to be much more fun due to it versatility. Changing tires back and forth from knobbies to touring sucks but other than that the bike really does do it all.
A modern triumph 1050 sport! I wonder what it's like fully loaded? good video I would be trying that lean angel out going to Buxton.
Hey Chopsy. You do the bike tests/reviews in some beautiful countries. I love your vids, just amazing. Nicely detailed with awesome bikes and amazing backdrops.
I am wondering how you would compare the RS to the RT. How close is the RT in the twisties? And how comfy is the RS?
I’m writing this from down under (Australia) I’m torn between the two. We have long distances between towns especially on a big tour.
I will be using it more as a commuter with a bit of a weekend fun once a month or so.