I am coming around to them but still wary of BMW pulling my pants down. Triple black colour is an £800 option! Spoken wheels are an £800 option! Engine bars are £400! he bike can easily cost £20k and it isnt twice as good as any £10k Japanese bike.
Even just riding in Scotland I found once you get into the countryside on a naked bike you can get into some hair situations with potholed and gravelly roads, I'm much more confident I can handle all scenarios on my V-Strom 650. I would love a GS but I think just weight and width wise I'd lose a bit of ability around town and I'm not sure I gain much if I'm not actually going off road etc.
@@Geshmaal Interestingly I felt more confident on the GS than many smaller bikes due to how stable it was at any speed. Just a joy to ride but not cheap to own!
@@terrynicholson9273 You should try one. I'd argue the GS is worth the extra money! I'd never have said that before I'd actually tried one and now I'm in love with mines.
I have watched this review quite a few times, and now I have a 1250GS TE Rallye exactly as this, what a bike, it’s just brilliant. So thanks for helping make my mind up, I enjoy your reviews and content generally as you have a nice relaxed style. Ride safe.
I’ve owned two BMW GS’s and enjoyed them more than the other 11 bikes I’ve owned in my many years. Great for touring and a pleasure to cruise around on. Very comfortable and you can carry most everything you need. Mine have been very reliable.
It's all about how you take care of them. Some people are able to kill a bike in a few thousand miles, others can take them to 100k+ with no real issues.
Nice review - I test rode this very model and it was impressive. I’m leaning toward a GS Adventure - at 5’9/30” inseam probably a low suspension version. Would love to see a review on that model.
As always , great video. They are annoyingly good, so much so that I have just ordered one. So gone is my Africa Twin, but still keeping my KTM Duke 890R for those solo crazy days.Keep the videos coming 👍
i have the quickshifter in my f900r but i only use it above 2 because from first to second gear it kicks back but other than that its a great thing to have
I have just sold my GT Pro and slapped down a deposit on a lowered triple black for March. I enjoyed having my Tiger but I have never sat on a bike so comfortable before as the GS. I am surprised how much punch there is in that boxer engine. I totally agree that the quick shifter on the tiger 900 is in a different league. Ps I always get choked up by the chemicals when cleaning the chain. So looking forward to a drive shaft 👍
I took a long demo ride on one, and I must say, It was a pleasure to ride, and very comfortable.Now if I could only get on with the looks of it,I’d buy one.Thanks Dan.👍🏻
I only briefly owned the 1250. Went back to the 1200. 1250 had a chronic left cylinder rattle (a 'characteristic' according to BMW), and those Hayes brakes leaked terribly. BMW support was simply nonexistent.
My rattle was valve damage, complete cylinder replaced under warranty, I suggest you get it checked by another dealer, it’s a known issue. It was caused by incorrect settings when assembled😬
500 miles in a day is just one area where this bike comes into it's own! Once mastered it can keep with virtually anything in the twisties, it's deceptively quick.
Great vlog, Gs definitely a great bike, bit big price to match but definitely popular. Soft is that a new setting 🤣. Look forward to next vlog, stay safe 👍🏍
Great TFT. GSs have got so much more complex since my 1100 I bought secondhand in 1996. 14 years and 92,000 miles great service from it. The flat-twin engine was its best feature [followed by shaft drive], meaning the centre of gravity was so low. A superb handler. I'd like a 1250, only I don't need a large capacity bike now. The basic model isn't a bad price in England. It's the one I'd go for.
I have a 1100, great bike, does everything I need it to do and incredibly fun and reliable. Done some mods inc a new 1150 style beak to give it a facelift. I'd like a new GS at some point but they are mostly the same to the old ones with added comfort and tech. Would be a dream to order a new GS one day though, before the ICE GS'es get killed by regulators.
Nice review as usual Dan. I don’t know if my age is getting to me but I am liking adventure bikes more. It’s a really nice looking bike and it goes well. Perfect for those long cruises. The price is kinda high but it’s a bmw isn’t it 😂. Other than the price, it’s an awesome bike 👍🏻
Nice review! Thank you! I have put 310miles so far and I am really enjoying it. I'm still getting to know it. I'm settling down the motor so I can't surpass the 4k rpm yet. I can only imagine how will I enjoy it when I can get over 4k rpm. I'm loosing the fear of taking it off-road, I'm taking easy and medium roads for now I had never done any off-road previously and I was amazed how good experience it was, the computer does a lot of work when in Enduro mode and I just have to trust it and twist the throttle it's amazing how secure it feels. This bike is not a replacement for an Enduro or Motocross bike, it's big and heavy, also it's very expensive!! I would rather it cost less and the maintenance was cheaper, but what can one do? If money is an issue, I'm glad there are other options available. So far the experience I've had with this bike is awesome, in my opinion, the money effort was worthy. I expect to get an Enduro bike next year to have fun on trails that this GS can't take (or at least I wouldn't dare to put her on).
I never use the quick shifter on gears 1 & 2..too clunky...All other gears its fine. If they were going to fix it they would have done it by now as I have the 2019 1250 Exclusive. I have to agree the Triumph quick shift version is a lot better, but I love my GS too much to think of a change...but the new Guzzi 1100 looks interesting.
Yes, they are bridgestone a41. And yes, they are MUCH BETTER - on road. Makes this GS into a stupidly good cornering bike (PS - and if you get the lowered suspension version - with the A41 tires - it is crazy quick in the turns). The adventure version is very nice - for its size and height - but unless you really and truly need that ground clearance, get the lowered suspension GS with road tires - and have yourself a supersport that does gravel roads.
I love my TE Rallye 1250 part exchanged a Multistrada S for it, the Multi is quicker, but the BMW is a better allrounder and will hold its value better.
@@stevewells5039 Tried the Multi V4S? I did, after coming from several 1200 / 1250 GS / GSA's. The Quickshifter alone is reason enough to buy the Duc! Also, i found the adjustability of the suspension better on the Multi than on the GS, with a lot more options. Picking up my 2022 Multi V4s next friday😁
I’ve got a Geriatric Scooter 1250 and find it perfect if your getting on a bit. Very easy to ride and not radical like some of the other adventure bikes
I own the same bike Dan, I have had a few and was always advised NOT to use the quick shifter between 1st and 2nd as you stated !! although I have to admit it's not the best in any gear !!!!!
i must admit i dont use the quick shifter at all really, and it really clunks down into first gear if you have the revs up to high lol , but over all the best bike on the road i would say,love mine
@@garthwaters5756 Upshifting: Always with throttle open, downshifting always with throttle closed. Both with a firm "nudge" of the shift lever.. Use regular shifts between 1-2 .. Try it out.
For best results only use the QS above 5000 RPM. For low speed day to day riding, manual shifts from first to second are recommended. Shifts get smoother as you shift up through the box. Upon deceleration, avoid using the QS from second to first. Rather complete your final shift into first manually shortly before coming to a dead stop. Just my 2c as an owner.
@@Englishbikerdan Certainly "agricultural" in comparison to a sport bike, or even some of its competitors. It is a "dog-shifted" type gearbox, so it's pretty robust, but it also likes very quick and positive gear changes. You have to be deliberate with the shifter and follow through to the stop. If you are lazy or lethargic with your inputs, it's less rewarding and can be problematic. I do not run OEM engine oil, and that has improved things immensely too.
Very good vid,but yes the quick shifter is really only to be used realistically from 3rd gear upwards and over 3000 ram,close the throttle on the down shift
Today i test road a 2022 r1250gs and couldn't get past the noise that comes up from the front of the bike apparently from the front wheel, even at 40kms an hour. I'm hoping the new tiger 1200 is quieter. I'm amazed at the lack of criticism to the GS for that issue..loved everything else about it but just couldn't live with that noise.
I say the the same Lindsay, terrible noice, so disturbing. 🤬 I bought a 1250GS a week ago and I must change the front tyre to a Michelin Road 6, then the noise should decreasing a lot. In all other ways it is a fantastic bike, the quick shifter could be better, but that I can live with. Good comment from you! 🙏
Switch the tires…went thru two set this year on my 21’ I’m using the Dunlop Trailmax Mission….second set and love them…wish we we had options for different paint schemes….I have the Adventure with the Gold rims…enjoy and nice video
Great review! Looking at transitioning from my Vstrom 650 to this same bike. I'm under 5'8", inseam 28/29. I'm not flat-footed on my Vstrom. Wondering if it's value added to have the low suspension? Also - what packages does yours have (touring, premium, comfort w/keyless etc, etc). Looks like you have the dynamic package, light package, among other. Thank you!
Disagree with the "linear power delivery"; the shift cam makes that impossible and you actually feel the irregulaities in the acceleration. Furthermore, riding position is suboptimal. The pegs are right under your butt making the seating position "sporty" for some, cramped for me. I prefer the seating position of the GS F 850: no boxer, more space, pegs further to the front.
I never felt the changeover of cam profiles and I really tried to find it. Worked wonderfully for me and the comfiest bike I've ridden in 25 years. But, horses for courses.
Did you notice the QS was jerky between 1st and 2nd 🤣 I don't use it until I'm in 2nd and it learns your riding style so the more you use it the smoother it gets. I'm on my 3rd and the 1250 is a definite step up from the 1200. Mine's also the low chassis version which is great for us older shorties. The telelever ESA suspension and class leading torque make this bike surprisingly good on UK B roads and although not important to some the fuel economy is excellent meaning I get around 240 miles per tankfull so can go on a full day's ride without needing to find fuel.
@@Englishbikerdan You might have mentioned it but have probably got away with it....Well I guess you have to give it some stick to test it's performance so not surprising really. I filled up yesterday and the pooter said 240 miles to empty when it reset itself. I tend to ride it on the torque using the mid range and acceleration sense, avoiding using the brakes and because it has so much torque because of the shift cam engine and the telelever it makes life easy if like me you ride at speeds most of the time that won't bring you to the attention of the mobile camera vans which have a habit of hiding round here. It's one of the many advantages of a big twin which IMO is the best there is for road riding at reasonably legal speeds. BMW have been at it for years so it's no wonder it's such a good swiss army bike. Did I mention I'm a GS fanboy ..........
I had a test ride on one of these a while back... Cracking bike with all the power I'd ever need. 5.23...is that a wee scuff on the cylinder head I see?
Not ever have i ridden a bike with a quick shifter, (my 2009 gs doesnt have one)so i dont know but would like to own this Gs. I figure that clunkiness that everyone precludes to in 1st.-second has to do with offroad riding and using your clutch for slow deliberate manouvers. in which you would use your clutch a lot. I certainly would not like to have the quick shifter engage in a tight single root infested trail .Am i wrong in thinking that? Great review though. I am in the market. In Canada this would be $29000 + Dollars not pounds. Oh plus the GST, the MST depending on the province you bought from.
@@Englishbikerdan I'm glad you pointed that out Dan. I keep hearing how expensive BMWs are but comparing the top end of the ADV market they are very similar.
You should be using the quick shifter at 5k and up. Works quite well then, but yes, when you use it to short shift the bike, it is jerky, but think about it, if you are going to short shift, then why use a quick shifter.
It's awful at any rpm in 1st or 2nd. For example I've ridden many, many bikes where the shifters work flawlessly at low rpm. BMW need to do better considering the price.
Nice Bike, we have the 2015 R1200RT , now clocking 70k, super machine 🏍for long haul touring here in Australia, can you tell what your Jacket is please , it looks great. John & Tanina👍🍻
@@peterflowers9666 Yes thanks for clarifying, I did see that somewhere. I also ready the water cooled came out in 2019 but that is incorrect, sorry for the confusion. Shift cam came out in 2019.
Cool review!! On my BMW even though it says BMW on the front brakes when I looked at the calipers closely you can see a little B circled in certain parts on the calipers meaning that they are made by Brembo for BMW..😊
I did a BMW test ride day on an F900xr and someone else rode the 1200GS and S1000R. The consensus was 1-2-3 felt clunky unless you were at nearly full throttle or increasing throttle while shifting
GS'es are very picky on the gearbox and will generally feel like a box of metal tools being thrown around when not properly rev matched. When you ride them longer and get a feel for it it's actually not that jerky.
@@paulbrook2459 Not to say the GS isn't better at some things, but I'd personally save the money and stick with the 900 GTP. Personal choice of course!
@@Englishbikerdan that’s good advice Dan , I’m very happy with the Tiger , but maybe I’d like a touch more power on the tours I do 👍great job keep doing what you’re doing 👍
Hello there my friend. I have a very simple inquiry to make. My question is this: How do you have such great sound with next to none wind noise and awesome engine sound specifically on this video??? Thank you in advance and hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas 🎄 Cheers from Arizona USA
Hey there, thank you! Some of it is luck as the GS has pretty a decent screen. I use a Sena 10S boom mic inside my lid which connects to the Gopro via the Media Mod. Cheers and a very merry Christmas to you and yours! Dan
It’s been said, the legendary GS has been the bike that set the Adventure bar by which all others are evaluated. I would have to agree. But time does things to motivated companies. Ducati set a new bar. With their 2021 Multi Strada V4S. We see another iconic brand with the redesigned 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200, which is going to turn some heads. The Triumph Tiger, like Ducati, brings updated safety technology, lower weight and more power. With Blind Spot indicators, Dynamic Cruse control and Adaptive Cornering lights to mention just a few. I strongly suspect BMW, having decided to make “no changes” to the 2022 R1250 GS/GSA models, will follow this lead and update in 2023 with the aforementioned technology, as well as colors and if lucky, smoothing out of the quick shift. BMW appears to be resting on it’s laurels and following instead of leading. Just my .2.
Dunno, it is on market for 40 years and still sells like hot cookies on premium market due 2 it's 4 enthusiasts faff... that really every1 with a license can ride it. So hype is mayb the wrong word... since it reflects for a new product. Hey it is not a new Norton or new Newcastle United, isn't it? ;)) The yeehaw has been funny, the name over here is the gummy 🐄, 🤠
-Liking the reviews - the way you cut away to better show what yr talking about during the riding sections. -yes - offroad? not at 249kilos - but Ive never, and plenty are okay with it. -The old boxer cylinders would warm yr legs , this doesn't l bet? - Too heavy for me. Ive got a "thing" about heavy bikes in 2021:- 1.Why? 2.less mpg. 3.harder to stop. 4.harder to push around. 4a. easier to drop it. Please continue having the courage to criticise bikes - I wonder about other channels with all their superlatives. eg the Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor "Plenty of low down grunt" LOL - it's slower than a 1964 BSA Lightning 650...and yes, I have test ridden one.
Nice moto but from the price point of view, not so interesting... DCT is by far a better transmission system...This bike would be interesting if the retail price was half of its actual price...
@@Englishbikerdan Owned two GS bikes over the years their gearboxes are agricultural in nature. A quick shifter won’t turn pig shite into strawberry jam. But you did go on about it a bit, just saying. Now ride an Aprilia Factory V4 with a sublime quick shifter.
Enjoyed that Dan, good video. I agree on the quick shifter difference between the Tiger 1200 and the GS, the Tiger is seamless whilst the GS is a tad clunky. I’ve just swapped and whilst I really enjoyed the Tiger, the GS is a better bike in so many other ways. In particular where the weight is!
Living in rural Northumberland, big trips on bad roads, perfect bike but heavy when stood still. Superb package but dealer back up patchy and too common sight around here😢, love my 1250 GSA Exclusive despite it’s poor gearbox. The quick shifter I only use when upshifting in third and above, downshifting is fine. They need to make a lighter 900 version for my old body, the 850 is too heavy😂. Test riding the new 1200 Tiger next change😬😉
Love your comment “[the boxer engine]… made much more sense when it was air-cooled”. I prefer the corollary - that water-cooling makes no sense for a boxer engine (or a transverse V)! I know, I know, - emissions - but the R18 can do it. (Full disclosure - proud owner of last of the air-cooled GSs and two Moto Guzzis!)
Own a 1250 GSA rallye..awesome. Tried the mutistrada V4S.. brilliant fun but fuel consumption not good for a tourer. At all. My speed triple has better fuel consumption.
Once you've been in Europe for 10 days on tour with a mixture of roads you will appreciate why they sell so well.
I am coming around to them but still wary of BMW pulling my pants down. Triple black colour is an £800 option! Spoken wheels are an £800 option! Engine bars are £400! he bike can easily cost £20k and it isnt twice as good as any £10k Japanese bike.
In fairness I’ve owned a 2016 V Strom 1000 and ridden the 1250GS quite a bit. The V Strom was a good bike, but the GS is twice as good, easily.
Even just riding in Scotland I found once you get into the countryside on a naked bike you can get into some hair situations with potholed and gravelly roads, I'm much more confident I can handle all scenarios on my V-Strom 650. I would love a GS but I think just weight and width wise I'd lose a bit of ability around town and I'm not sure I gain much if I'm not actually going off road etc.
@@Geshmaal Interestingly I felt more confident on the GS than many smaller bikes due to how stable it was at any speed. Just a joy to ride but not cheap to own!
@@terrynicholson9273 You should try one. I'd argue the GS is worth the extra money! I'd never have said that before I'd actually tried one and now I'm in love with mines.
I have watched this review quite a few times, and now I have a 1250GS TE Rallye exactly as this, what a bike, it’s just brilliant.
So thanks for helping make my mind up, I enjoy your reviews and content generally as you have a nice relaxed style.
Ride safe.
Thanks Stephen! 👍
I’ve owned two BMW GS’s and enjoyed them more than the other 11 bikes I’ve owned in my many years. Great for touring and a pleasure to cruise around on. Very comfortable and you can carry most everything you need. Mine have been very reliable.
Sir your are very lucky person
It's all about how you take care of them. Some people are able to kill a bike in a few thousand miles, others can take them to 100k+ with no real issues.
Nice review - I test rode this very model and it was impressive. I’m leaning toward a GS Adventure - at 5’9/30” inseam probably a low suspension version. Would love to see a review on that model.
As always , great video. They are annoyingly good, so much so that I have just ordered one. So gone is my Africa Twin, but still keeping my KTM Duke 890R for those solo crazy days.Keep the videos coming 👍
i have the quickshifter in my f900r but i only use it above 2 because from first to second gear it kicks back but other than that its a great thing to have
I have just sold my GT Pro and slapped down a deposit on a lowered triple black for March. I enjoyed having my Tiger but I have never sat on a bike so comfortable before as the GS. I am surprised how much punch there is in that boxer engine. I totally agree that the quick shifter on the tiger 900 is in a different league. Ps I always get choked up by the chemicals when cleaning the chain. So looking forward to a drive shaft 👍
I wince every time I see others letting the centre stand smash into its bracket. Respect sir and great review.
Dito, there's just no need to do it
Good point. My old 1100 GS's main stand broke around 70,000 miles, as did the side stand. I had to lean it against a fence for a few days.
Why?
I took a long demo ride on one, and I must say, It was a pleasure to ride, and very comfortable.Now if I could only get on with the looks of it,I’d buy one.Thanks Dan.👍🏻
What a bike! Great review as always 👍
I only briefly owned the 1250. Went back to the 1200. 1250 had a chronic left cylinder rattle (a 'characteristic' according to BMW), and those Hayes brakes leaked terribly. BMW support was simply nonexistent.
My rattle was valve damage, complete cylinder replaced under warranty, I suggest you get it checked by another dealer, it’s a known issue. It was caused by incorrect settings when assembled😬
@@IanTed Ouch! Definitely need to catch that during warranty!
Cam shits at 5000 RPM to the high lift cam. I LOVE my 2019 GS, it changed my life!!!
500 miles in a day is just one area where this bike comes into it's own! Once mastered it can keep with virtually anything in the twisties, it's deceptively quick.
Great vlog, Gs definitely a great bike, bit big price to match but definitely popular. Soft is that a new setting 🤣. Look forward to next vlog, stay safe 👍🏍
"That is what she said", buddy, that was a gem 😂😂😂
Great review Dan. Thanks for posting buddy.
Great TFT. GSs have got so much more complex since my 1100 I bought secondhand in 1996. 14 years and 92,000 miles great service from it. The flat-twin engine was its best feature [followed by shaft drive], meaning the centre of gravity was so low. A superb handler. I'd like a 1250, only I don't need a large capacity bike now. The basic model isn't a bad price in England. It's the one I'd go for.
I have a 1100, great bike, does everything I need it to do and incredibly fun and reliable. Done some mods inc a new 1150 style beak to give it a facelift. I'd like a new GS at some point but they are mostly the same to the old ones with added comfort and tech. Would be a dream to order a new GS one day though, before the ICE GS'es get killed by regulators.
Nice review as usual Dan. I don’t know if my age is getting to me but I am liking adventure bikes more. It’s a really nice looking bike and it goes well. Perfect for those long cruises. The price is kinda high but it’s a bmw isn’t it 😂. Other than the price, it’s an awesome bike 👍🏻
I enjoy your biking videos and hearing your thoughts of them
Nice review! Thank you! I have put 310miles so far and I am really enjoying it. I'm still getting to know it. I'm settling down the motor so I can't surpass the 4k rpm yet. I can only imagine how will I enjoy it when I can get over 4k rpm. I'm loosing the fear of taking it off-road, I'm taking easy and medium roads for now I had never done any off-road previously and I was amazed how good experience it was, the computer does a lot of work when in Enduro mode and I just have to trust it and twist the throttle it's amazing how secure it feels.
This bike is not a replacement for an Enduro or Motocross bike, it's big and heavy, also it's very expensive!! I would rather it cost less and the maintenance was cheaper, but what can one do? If money is an issue, I'm glad there are other options available. So far the experience I've had with this bike is awesome, in my opinion, the money effort was worthy. I expect to get an Enduro bike next year to have fun on trails that this GS can't take (or at least I wouldn't dare to put her on).
I never use the quick shifter on gears 1 & 2..too clunky...All other gears its fine. If they were going to fix it they would have done it by now as I have the 2019 1250 Exclusive. I have to agree the Triumph quick shift version is a lot better, but I love my GS too much to think of a change...but the new Guzzi 1100 looks interesting.
Yes, they are bridgestone a41. And yes, they are MUCH BETTER - on road. Makes this GS into a stupidly good cornering bike (PS - and if you get the lowered suspension version - with the A41 tires - it is crazy quick in the turns). The adventure version is very nice - for its size and height - but unless you really and truly need that ground clearance, get the lowered suspension GS with road tires - and have yourself a supersport that does gravel roads.
Nice, would like to try the A41's on my Tiger.
Nice review and the audio was great
Hi Dan, another brilliant video that portrays a balanced opinion of the BMW 1250. You make it sounds so desirable. Keep up the good work. 👍
Camera position from 12:12-12:20 looks like something out of Star Wars, WARP SPEED!! 😂
Great vid
I love my TE Rallye 1250 part exchanged a Multistrada S for it, the Multi is quicker, but the BMW is a better allrounder and will hold its value better.
I’m just thinking about changing my Multi S for a 1250GSA but really struggling to convince myself that its the right decision. Any regrets?
@@stevewells5039 get the new tiger1200 mate…beast of a bike🙌
@@stevewells5039 Tried the Multi V4S?
I did, after coming from several 1200 / 1250 GS / GSA's.
The Quickshifter alone is reason enough to buy the Duc!
Also, i found the adjustability of the suspension better on the Multi than on the GS, with a lot more options.
Picking up my 2022 Multi V4s next friday😁
I’ve got a Geriatric Scooter 1250 and find it perfect if your getting on a bit. Very easy to ride and not radical like some of the other adventure bikes
Haha, 'Geriatric Scooter'. Funnily enough, I've been looking at Forza 750/X-Adv and TMax as a 2nd bike. Twist and go! Proper grandad stylee ;)
😂😂🤣geriatric scooter 🛵
Great professional vid again mate 👍🏻
I ride around there too. That’s Mytchett, Pirbright, Deepcut area 😊. 🙏 I am looking to get a GS1250. Have a Tiger 900 GT PRO at the mo.
I own the same bike Dan, I have had a few and was always advised NOT to use the quick shifter between 1st and 2nd as you stated !! although I have to admit it's not the best in any gear !!!!!
i must admit i dont use the quick shifter at all really, and it really clunks down into first gear if you have the revs up to high lol , but over all the best bike on the road i would say,love mine
@@garthwaters5756 Upshifting: Always with throttle open, downshifting always with throttle closed. Both with a firm "nudge" of the shift lever.. Use regular shifts between 1-2 .. Try it out.
wow, My dreambike!..... And i already own it. :)
I just bought the same. After the 850gsa. Great job.
Nice one...Would be nice to see a comparison to the GS Adventure.
Please do GS 310 for poor people in London 😃
The bike is quick smooth and comfortable and quite sporty ,but as you say load it up with toys and you're into a second mortgage
Fantastic video dan as always stay safe 🇬🇧👍
For best results only use the QS above 5000 RPM. For low speed day to day riding, manual shifts from first to second are recommended. Shifts get smoother as you shift up through the box. Upon deceleration, avoid using the QS from second to first. Rather complete your final shift into first manually shortly before coming to a dead stop.
Just my 2c as an owner.
Yes it's very agricultural! Kinda expected better tbh.
@@Englishbikerdan Certainly "agricultural" in comparison to a sport bike, or even some of its competitors.
It is a "dog-shifted" type gearbox, so it's pretty robust, but it also likes very quick and positive gear changes. You have to be deliberate with the shifter and follow through to the stop. If you are lazy or lethargic with your inputs, it's less rewarding and can be problematic.
I do not run OEM engine oil, and that has improved things immensely too.
Agree my 850 GS is the same. Never use QS between 1-2 and 2-1. The Tiger has the most amazing QS but I still love the beemer overall
Many thanks, much appreciated.
You can get an adapter if you don't want to buy Nav 6 which is what i did and used my garmin zumo xt
Mate could you kindly share which adapter you have bought? Cheers
Great sound quality. You could make a video talking about the mic and where you set up on the helmet. Thanks. Congrats
Thank you. Yes I really should do that video! 👍
Very good vid,but yes the quick shifter is really only to be used realistically from 3rd gear upwards and over 3000 ram,close the throttle on the down shift
Awesome video as always , i wanna ask can you make a video about yamaha tracer is it possible?
Great video, Pirbright bends?
Great review Dan, if money was not an issue would you go for this over the Tiger?
Thanks, tough one as the Tiger 850 is half the cost!
@@Englishbikerdan You have to remember to balance cost versus resale value.
You get 7 riding modes on all the TE variations not just Rallye
Today i test road a 2022 r1250gs and couldn't get past the noise that comes up from the front of the bike apparently from the front wheel, even at 40kms an hour. I'm hoping the new tiger 1200 is quieter. I'm amazed at the lack of criticism to the GS for that issue..loved everything else about it but just couldn't live with that noise.
I never had that issue at all, however my Tiger 850 does.
I say the the same Lindsay, terrible noice, so disturbing. 🤬 I bought a 1250GS a week ago and I must change the front tyre to a Michelin Road 6, then the noise should decreasing a lot. In all other ways it is a fantastic bike, the quick shifter could be better, but that I can live with. Good comment from you! 🙏
@@MagnusAndersson-lw3ps I ended up getting the GS as its just the best..I will later get the road 6's that may help with the noise.
@@thelindsayf I was calling the shop for tyres now, I will order a Road 6 for the front tyre. Such an expensive bike should not sound so bad….! Crazy!
Thanks for your video :)
Switch the tires…went thru two set this year on my 21’ I’m using the Dunlop Trailmax Mission….second set and love them…wish we we had options for different paint schemes….I have the Adventure with the Gold rims…enjoy and nice video
I found these tyres pretty good to be honest. Heard A41's are better OEM though.
Great review! Looking at transitioning from my Vstrom 650 to this same bike. I'm under 5'8", inseam 28/29. I'm not flat-footed on my Vstrom. Wondering if it's value added to have the low suspension? Also - what packages does yours have (touring, premium, comfort w/keyless etc, etc). Looks like you have the dynamic package, light package, among other. Thank you!
Disagree with the "linear power delivery"; the shift cam makes that impossible and you actually feel the irregulaities in the acceleration. Furthermore, riding position is suboptimal. The pegs are right under your butt making the seating position "sporty" for some, cramped for me. I prefer the seating position of the GS F 850: no boxer, more space, pegs further to the front.
I never felt the changeover of cam profiles and I really tried to find it. Worked wonderfully for me and the comfiest bike I've ridden in 25 years. But, horses for courses.
Love ur videos keep on doing .and can u make a video on bmw r ninet urban gs
I'm sure I can sort something. Cheers!
Did you notice the QS was jerky between 1st and 2nd 🤣 I don't use it until I'm in 2nd and it learns your riding style so the more you use it the smoother it gets. I'm on my 3rd and the 1250 is a definite step up from the 1200. Mine's also the low chassis version which is great for us older shorties. The telelever ESA suspension and class leading torque make this bike surprisingly good on UK B roads and although not important to some the fuel economy is excellent meaning I get around 240 miles per tankfull so can go on a full day's ride without needing to find fuel.
Did I tell you about the QS? 😂 Your fuel range is interesting, I wasn't getting anywhere near that.
@@Englishbikerdan You might have mentioned it but have probably got away with it....Well I guess you have to give it some stick to test it's performance so not surprising really. I filled up yesterday and the pooter said 240 miles to empty when it reset itself. I tend to ride it on the torque using the mid range and acceleration sense, avoiding using the brakes and because it has so much torque because of the shift cam engine and the telelever it makes life easy if like me you ride at speeds most of the time that won't bring you to the attention of the mobile camera vans which have a habit of hiding round here. It's one of the many advantages of a big twin which IMO is the best there is for road riding at reasonably legal speeds. BMW have been at it for years so it's no wonder it's such a good swiss army bike. Did I mention I'm a GS fanboy ..........
It's not "some" cooling from the air, it's two thirds. Water only cools the cylinder heads.
Do you have a link to this info? Couldn't find it anywhere?
Nice video. Cheers!
Very nice review. I have never rode gs 1200. but i think ı wont ride gs. In my opinion ktm adventure 390 better idea than gs 1200. :)
I had a test ride on one of these a while back... Cracking bike with all the power I'd ever need. 5.23...is that a wee scuff on the cylinder head I see?
Yes, I had an argument with a bollard! Guess who's not used to boxer engines!?
@@Englishbikerdan Ah, better that than dropping it....a wee bit of silicone spray and it'll be good as new👍
Ill go for triumph 1200 gt pro explorer
Anyone wondering how a Quickshifter SHOULD work?
Try the Multistrada V4.
I just need to ride my Tiger 850 Sport. 😉👍
Not ever have i ridden a bike with a quick shifter, (my 2009 gs doesnt have one)so i dont know but would like to own this Gs. I figure that clunkiness that everyone precludes to in 1st.-second has to do with offroad riding and using your clutch for slow deliberate manouvers. in which you would use your clutch a lot. I certainly would not like to have the quick shifter engage in a tight single root infested trail .Am i wrong in thinking that? Great review though. I am in the market. In Canada this would be $29000 + Dollars not pounds. Oh plus the GST, the MST depending on the province you bought from.
A lot of money for what they are, very competitive market offering bikes with more power and better spec for less £££’s
If you take like for like, power, electronics I think most bikes similar to the BMW are fairly close in price.
@@Englishbikerdan I'm glad you pointed that out Dan. I keep hearing how expensive BMWs are but comparing the top end of the ADV market they are very similar.
You should be using the quick shifter at 5k and up. Works quite well then, but yes, when you use it to short shift the bike, it is jerky, but think about it, if you are going to short shift, then why use a quick shifter.
It's awful at any rpm in 1st or 2nd. For example I've ridden many, many bikes where the shifters work flawlessly at low rpm. BMW need to do better considering the price.
Nice Bike, we have the 2015 R1200RT , now clocking 70k, super machine 🏍for long haul touring here in Australia, can you tell what your Jacket is please , it looks great.
John & Tanina👍🍻
water cooled since 2019 - before that air cooled with oil cooler, not sure when that started, 2000 or prior I do know that.
Part liquid / part air cooled came out in 2013, still the same today.
@@peterflowers9666 Yes thanks for clarifying, I did see that somewhere. I also ready the water cooled came out in 2019 but that is incorrect, sorry for the confusion. Shift cam came out in 2019.
Cool review!! On my BMW even though it says BMW on the front brakes when I looked at the calipers closely you can see a little B circled in certain parts on the calipers meaning that they are made by Brembo for BMW..😊
If you look on the inside of the callipers (front) you will see the callipers are made by a company called Hayes, and American company.
I was about to say, they are made by Hayes.
Well on my 2013 r1200r they were made by Brembo but said BMW on the outside I guess things have changed
Made by Hayes, they are part of the Brembo group, hence the ‘B’.
How does it compare to your tiger 850?
thanks bro
No, thank you! 😍
They retail for over 20000€ over here🇳🇱 NL, you can get several nice bikes for that kind of dough.
Or one really nice one. It's choice at the end of the day. 👍
That`s nothing, in Denmark the GS starts at 35.000€. I have a 2020 HP style, i paid +40.000€ for it (and i got a good discount) 😎
Did I miss your views on the screen
Does it give good protection?
Buffeting of head?
Noisy?
Vibes?
It was so good, I didn't even notice it!
Should quickshifter only be used at high revs in each gear going up the gears?
I did a BMW test ride day on an F900xr and someone else rode the 1200GS and S1000R. The consensus was 1-2-3 felt clunky unless you were at nearly full throttle or increasing throttle while shifting
GS'es are very picky on the gearbox and will generally feel like a box of metal tools being thrown around when not properly rev matched. When you ride them longer and get a feel for it it's actually not that jerky.
Loved the bike, hated the gearbox\ shifter. The XR has such a sweet gearbox why can't the GS?
Because of the engine configuration. an in-line four will always be smoother.
the only reason i didnt get the 1250 gs are the pistons thats stick out. a nogo in a city with high trafic.
The pistons sticking out ? That would be a catastrophic problem anywhere 😁
@@ciaranfitzgerald2491 😂 yeah you know what i mean
@@hextunes I do indeed 👍only joking 😁
Can I ask what brand jacket you're wearing? Thanks.
It's Merlin bike gear Chigwell Utility. All details usually in video description. 👍
Great video 👍 I’ve got the tiger gt pro , would you upgrade to the GS ?
Probably not tbh.
@@Englishbikerdan thanks Dan , that surprises me , and saved me money 👍👍
@@paulbrook2459 Not to say the GS isn't better at some things, but I'd personally save the money and stick with the 900 GTP. Personal choice of course!
@@Englishbikerdan that’s good advice Dan , I’m very happy with the Tiger , but maybe I’d like a touch more power on the tours I do 👍great job keep doing what you’re doing 👍
Hello there my friend. I have a very simple inquiry to make. My question is this: How do you have such great sound with next to none wind noise and awesome engine sound specifically on this video??? Thank you in advance and hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas 🎄
Cheers from Arizona USA
Hey there, thank you! Some of it is luck as the GS has pretty a decent screen. I use a Sena 10S boom mic inside my lid which connects to the Gopro via the Media Mod. Cheers and a very merry Christmas to you and yours! Dan
@@Englishbikerdan thank you so much. Now I may have my GS be heard!!!👌👌
Was there any buffeting from the screen?
None at all. 👍
weight?
It’s been said, the legendary GS has been the bike that set the Adventure bar by which all others are evaluated. I would have to agree. But time does things to motivated companies. Ducati set a new bar. With their 2021 Multi Strada V4S. We see another iconic brand with the redesigned 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200, which is going to turn some heads. The Triumph Tiger, like Ducati, brings updated safety technology, lower weight and more power. With Blind Spot indicators, Dynamic Cruse control and Adaptive Cornering lights to mention just a few. I strongly suspect BMW, having decided to make “no changes” to the 2022 R1250 GS/GSA models, will follow this lead and update in 2023 with the aforementioned technology, as well as colors and if lucky, smoothing out of the quick shift. BMW appears to be resting on it’s laurels and following instead of leading. Just my .2.
What's the old saying? Adapt or die. BMW are smart enough to know this. Let's hope they do something about it!
Dunno, it is on market for 40 years and still sells like hot cookies on premium market due 2 it's 4 enthusiasts faff... that really every1 with a license can ride it. So hype is mayb the wrong word... since it reflects for a new product. Hey it is not a new Norton or new Newcastle United, isn't it? ;)) The yeehaw has been funny, the name over here is the gummy 🐄, 🤠
Did you do a second vid
I did not, ran out of time sadly.
wow
I think tiger 1200 explorer is better . My opinion !.
The explorer is up against the GSA. So the competition for the this is the 1200 GT Pro/Rally Pro. I'll wait to ride them before commenting. 😁
@@Englishbikerdan ubout this im talking 😊 Will see in February ❤️
Hey, I know this area...then hey that's my street.. my HOUSE
Not fully water cooled.
-Liking the reviews - the way you cut away to better show what yr talking about during the riding sections.
-yes - offroad? not at 249kilos - but Ive never, and plenty are okay with it.
-The old boxer cylinders would warm yr legs , this doesn't l bet?
- Too heavy for me. Ive got a "thing" about heavy bikes in 2021:-
1.Why?
2.less mpg.
3.harder to stop.
4.harder to push around.
4a. easier to drop it.
Please continue having the courage to criticise bikes - I wonder about other channels with all their superlatives. eg the Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor "Plenty of low down grunt" LOL - it's slower than a 1964 BSA Lightning 650...and yes, I have test ridden one.
"Nice and soft" that's what she never said! 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
Hahahahahahaha
Oil not water cooled
They are considered water cooled/liquid cooled according to my research.
Nice moto but from the price point of view, not so interesting... DCT is by far a better transmission system...This bike would be interesting if the retail price was half of its actual price...
DCT is good but I'd still rather have a manual with a good quick shifter system.
RES = resume
That makes more sense!
You are a ware is only the cylinder heads that are water cooled.
If "YOU" had to choose One Motorcycle , which one would you choose ?? R1250GS or S1000XR ??? ;)
GS, that's an easy one. :)
@@Englishbikerdan , XR For me .
@@nihar77p Fair enough. Too revy for my liking as an everyday bike but good fun though!
@@Englishbikerdan Yep , Taste is Subjective .
Nein nein nein !!!
That reminds me of this video I watched once.... 😉
Almost every sentence begins with 'so'. Had to stop listening.
So.....
Can you whinge anymore about the 1-2 shift? Telling us continuously is boring.
Yes, yes I can! Did you know about the clunky (understatement) shift from 1st to 2nd? I'm guessing you're a GS owner? 😉
@@Englishbikerdan Owned two GS bikes over the years their gearboxes are agricultural in nature. A quick shifter won’t turn pig shite into strawberry jam. But you did go on about it a bit, just saying. Now ride an Aprilia Factory V4 with a sublime quick shifter.
Enjoyed that Dan, good video. I agree on the quick shifter difference between the Tiger 1200 and the GS, the Tiger is seamless whilst the GS is a tad clunky. I’ve just swapped and whilst I really enjoyed the Tiger, the GS is a better bike in so many other ways. In particular where the weight is!
Living in rural Northumberland, big trips on bad roads, perfect bike but heavy when stood still. Superb package but dealer back up patchy and too common sight around here😢, love my 1250 GSA Exclusive despite it’s poor gearbox. The quick shifter I only use when upshifting in third and above, downshifting is fine. They need to make a lighter 900 version for my old body, the 850 is too heavy😂. Test riding the new 1200 Tiger next change😬😉
i have a new gs te triple black, delivered last week and i fooking love it
Amazing vid Dan! Where would you place this in terms of overall performance, feel and price in contrast with your Tiger, and an Africa Twin with DCT?
what an awesome bike :))
Love your comment “[the boxer engine]… made much more sense when it was air-cooled”. I prefer the corollary - that water-cooling makes no sense for a boxer engine (or a transverse V)! I know, I know, - emissions - but the R18 can do it. (Full disclosure - proud owner of last of the air-cooled GSs and two Moto Guzzis!)
Own a 1250 GSA rallye..awesome. Tried the mutistrada V4S.. brilliant fun but fuel consumption not good for a tourer. At all. My speed triple has better fuel consumption.