This honestly was a great review. As a former K1200S owner, I was struck by the engine, riding ergos and chain drive vice shaft. I'll keep my eyes open to throw a leg over one here in the states and compare. Well done!
Guys this is a fantastic review. Really enjoyed the different opinions and the practical informative ridding scenarios used as examples. I live in Sydney and love the look of this bike. I currently have a R1250R but want something a bit spicier. Just a bit concerned on the size and traffic ridding.
Thanks Michael, glad you enjoyed the video. I used to have an R1200R and have ridden and reviewed the R1250R, which I really loved, but can confirm the S1000XR is certainly “spicier”. Size wise, not a great deal of difference, the XR is a little bit taller, and doesn’t have that wonderful low centre of gravity of the boxer. Tough choice but if you are after sportier riding, the XR wins easily.
If you find the XR too big a bike for commuting, you might have a go on the F900R or XR. It’s their parallel twin, same dash, similar styling, but a bit smaller and lighter, and only 110bhp. Perfect city bike and ample fun in the countryside.
I had an 18 model XR and the suspension was hard no matter what setting it was on. Its a shame that it couldnt be softened for touring because it has a great motor. Thanks for the video.
If you have the electronic suspension, then adjusting the preload and damping is necessary. However, after doing so, you need to use the GS911 app (or take it to the dealer) to have the travel sensors recalibrated. And only adjust the suspension with the key ON so the electronics react.
I have a 23 with electronic suspension, full option. If its lacking anything I would say its that no matter what setting, the suspension never firms up enough for my taste.
I have the 2016 Multistrada, and the touring setting is basically perfect for 90% of roads. The Sport setting is good if a road is smoother than most, and then it handles very well.
I have ridden the XR 3 times for about 500 miles in all types of riding and think that the Pikes Peak is better in every catagory. Looks better, the engine in better and has more torque down low where you need it, brakes better, has more riding modes and with the full titanium exhaust, sounds WAY better!!
I own an XR and it’s a brilliant bike, I had a Multi Strada V4s and really didn’t like it. The XR has much sharper handling but you are comparing the Pikes Peak that is 28K in the UK to a bike that is 20k You need to compare it to the M
@ “If.” That’s a word one chooses carefully. My last bike was the R 1250 RT and I gotta tell you, I like the hell out of that shaft drive and the creature comforts. Especially that electronic windshield and massive fairing. I’m not convinced the S is right just yet.
@ but again, thanks for your feedback, brother. Dealerships these days really don’t want you to do test rides anymore, especially on new BMWs, so I’ve got to get everything secondhand. I appreciate you being open.
Actually I rode an RT around Tasmania in February and that would be the bike I’d buy if I was primarily doing long distance touring, but the S1000XR would also be a great choice and possible a rad more practical, but who ever bought a bike based on practicality.@@pneumaticman5927
I love mine 9.5 out of ten. Only criticism, low torque off the line (my old K1300 S) was better. Bit of wind noise over 100 km/h. Love the BMW approach it all works perfectly
Great review as per usual. Couple of months ago I was tossing between this and the tracer 9. Got the non m pack version and I couldn't be happier. 2k for the pannier/top box feels like a rort.
Agree, they have 3 very distinct engine configurations that all perform. Love the M1000R, probably one of the best bikes I’ve ridden. Thanks for watching, glad you liked the video
I didn’t notice any major vibrations through the bars. There’s a slight buzz there, but nothing annoying. Personally I’d probably take a GS because of the shaft drive…but then again, this bike was probably more engaging to ride
I get the bird reference. From the wrong angle, the Ducati gives off Ibis vibes. If I had no plans to ride dirt road, this would have been high on the list.
I currently ride a '22 K1600GTL, and I love it. But, I'm considering this bike. The pricing may stop me. It's in the same territory as GTL, which has more features.
I haven’t ridden the K1600 but have heard it’s a great bike, but I’d wager that the S1000XR is far sportier. We’ve spoken to BMW about getting on a few of the K series so stay tuned.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Agree the price of some of the new bikes on the market is up there. I’m not familiar with the Honda Pan European, I’ll have to look it up
I didn’t like it. I found the seat quite restrictive and uncomfortable and the engine really buzzy especially around 4k rpm. It’s tall and so not a genuine sports tourer, more a crossover between an adventure bike and a tourer. Not for me.
I didn’t find it to tall and wind protection was ok, not as good as something like the RT but still adequate. In terms of buzz do you mean vibration through the bars? I didn’t really notice it like I did on the M1000R
I’ve owned 4 BMWs, still have two of them, one for over 25 years, and have never had an issue after factory warranty expires. Not saying it doesn’t happen, but would be very surprised if it’s a major issue and I’d imagine pretty much every manufacturer would have at least a few claims due to warranty. Your comment seems like a huge generalisation.
I’m rapidly becoming a massive fan of the entire S1000 range. Still love my boxer twins but these litre bikes are next level. Great to hear you love yours,
@@BikerTorque I guess the word "Sports" has to carry the weight of the performance part :D. Didn't Honda VFR had shaft too? I think Yamaha FRJ is the only thing with shaft from Japan along with BMW and Moto Guzzi.
This honestly was a great review. As a former K1200S owner, I was struck by the engine, riding ergos and chain drive vice shaft. I'll keep my eyes open to throw a leg over one here in the states and compare. Well done!
Thanks for that, glad you enjoyed the video. The XR is well worth a look.
Guys this is a fantastic review. Really enjoyed the different opinions and the practical informative ridding scenarios used as examples. I live in Sydney and love the look of this bike. I currently have a R1250R but want something a bit spicier.
Just a bit concerned on the size and traffic ridding.
Thanks Michael, glad you enjoyed the video. I used to have an R1200R and have ridden and reviewed the R1250R, which I really loved, but can confirm the S1000XR is certainly “spicier”. Size wise, not a great deal of difference, the XR is a little bit taller, and doesn’t have that wonderful low centre of gravity of the boxer. Tough choice but if you are after sportier riding, the XR wins easily.
If you find the XR too big a bike for commuting, you might have a go on the F900R or XR. It’s their parallel twin, same dash, similar styling, but a bit smaller and lighter, and only 110bhp. Perfect city bike and ample fun in the countryside.
We had the F900GS for review with by Lukas and Ross really liked. Engine is amazing, so keen to get on the F900R to test it out
It’s absolutely perfect for me 😊
Nice one, which colour do you have and when did you get it?
This bike would be so fun to chase your friends around with. It’d be carefree and comfortable but also as fast as anything else.
I can confirm it definitely is quick
I had an 18 model XR and the suspension was hard no matter what setting it was on. Its a shame that it couldnt be softened for touring because it has a great motor. Thanks for the video.
Sounds like they’ve definitely improved the suspension because this was excellent
If you have the electronic suspension, then adjusting the preload and damping is necessary. However, after doing so, you need to use the GS911 app (or take it to the dealer) to have the travel sensors recalibrated. And only adjust the suspension with the key ON so the electronics react.
I have a 23 with electronic suspension, full option. If its lacking anything I would say its that no matter what setting, the suspension never firms up enough for my taste.
I have the 2016 Multistrada, and the touring setting is basically perfect for 90% of roads. The Sport setting is good if a road is smoother than most, and then it handles very well.
@@cj-ef1rp my manual does not mention any of all that. The preload is also electronically adjustable( somewhat)
I have ridden the XR 3 times for about 500 miles in all types of riding and think that the Pikes Peak is better in every catagory. Looks better, the engine in better and has more torque down low where you need it, brakes better, has more riding modes and with the full titanium exhaust, sounds WAY better!!
Interesting observation, we have a video coming up on exactly this topic in a few weeks, Pikes Peak Vs S1000XR
I own an XR and it’s a brilliant bike, I had a Multi Strada V4s and really didn’t like it. The XR has much sharper handling but you are comparing the Pikes Peak that is 28K in the UK to a bike that is 20k You need to compare it to the M
@@fentontaylor9021 I would like the multistrada but the price it just so much more than the X-RAY
Thanks y’all. Trying to decide between this and a GS.
If the S1000XR was shaft drive I’d say definitely the S series…but end of the day, both wonderful bikes
@ “If.” That’s a word one chooses carefully. My last bike was the R 1250 RT and I gotta tell you, I like the hell out of that shaft drive and the creature comforts. Especially that electronic windshield and massive fairing. I’m not convinced the S is right just yet.
@ but again, thanks for your feedback, brother. Dealerships these days really don’t want you to do test rides anymore, especially on new BMWs, so I’ve got to get everything secondhand. I appreciate you being open.
Actually I rode an RT around Tasmania in February and that would be the bike I’d buy if I was primarily doing long distance touring, but the S1000XR would also be a great choice and possible a rad more practical, but who ever bought a bike based on practicality.@@pneumaticman5927
The S1000XR is on my shortlist for my next bike. What a fantastic bike!!!❤
Great bike, worth a test ride
I love mine 9.5 out of ten. Only criticism, low torque off the line (my old K1300 S) was better. Bit of wind noise over 100 km/h. Love the BMW approach it all works perfectly
And that’s kind of the thing with most BMW’s, everything just works really well.
Fair review. One point , the Nav Prep is an option.
Thanks for that. Great that Nav prep is an option, that must have changed. I had an R1200R where I’m pretty sure the Nav prep was standard.
Great review as per usual. Couple of months ago I was tossing between this and the tracer 9. Got the non m pack version and I couldn't be happier. 2k for the pannier/top box feels like a rort.
Tracer 9GT is also a great bike but I reckon I’d go for the XR also, feels like a more quality bike.
Love the breath of options from BMW. But I'm too in love with my M1000R to consider the S1K XR. Thanks for a great video team.
Agree, they have 3 very distinct engine configurations that all perform. Love the M1000R, probably one of the best bikes I’ve ridden. Thanks for watching, glad you liked the video
I’m waiting for the new model. Hope comes out soon. I’m very tempted to buy the actual one everyday 😩
Current model is pretty sweet.Might be some discounts on the current model once the new one drops also.
How's handlebar vibration? Considering this one vs GS.
I didn’t notice any major vibrations through the bars. There’s a slight buzz there, but nothing annoying. Personally I’d probably take a GS because of the shaft drive…but then again, this bike was probably more engaging to ride
How did you add 10k to the price - what inclusion did you add
Australian dollars, has a few BMW options
I get the bird reference. From the wrong angle, the Ducati gives off Ibis vibes.
If I had no plans to ride dirt road, this would have been high on the list.
It’s an excellent bike Matt, would seriously consider one myself
Love this ! More please 🍻🏁
Plenty more coming up in 2025
id have one ross not sure how long itd last with my riding location choices but itd be an arm stretching giggle fest great review mate cheers
It would be a blast through Hellyer Gorge 😂
@ oh yeah it would
I currently ride a '22 K1600GTL, and I love it. But, I'm considering this bike. The pricing may stop me. It's in the same territory as GTL, which has more features.
I haven’t ridden the K1600 but have heard it’s a great bike, but I’d wager that the S1000XR is far sportier. We’ve spoken to BMW about getting on a few of the K series so stay tuned.
Try the ducati multistrada v4s and compaire yoyr choix
We’ve just ridden the Multistrada Pikes Peak, video out in a few weeks, and also have the new V4RS arriving in the new year for review.
The 1200S Multi has been a great bike for me for 9 years. The motor wasn't reliable, but it's still running.
I miss the GTR 1400 even more after this review.
Sorry Chewie, that was a great bike.
That sums it up. Perfectly engineered, no soul. It’ll do everything right. But will you turn around to look at it as you walk away from it?
Spot on
Love this bike.
It’s a ripper
M1000XR is the best! I ditched my S1000xr for an M and love it.
We love a blingey M version over here. Had the chance to ride a M1000RR on track but ran out of time. Kicking myself
Great bike but It's hard to justify buying given you can get an M1000XR in Australia for only 2 grand more.
The M1000XR would certainly be tempting
Love mine❤ 2:51
They are great bikes, plenty to like.
Having owned both, the Multistrada is perfect………………..
Both great bikes, we have a Multistrada Pikes Peak video coming up soon
Great! That’s what I am riding now
Great, informative review. Cost/value is getting way out of kilter, however. Also near perfect is STILL my 2005 Honda Pan European.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Agree the price of some of the new bikes on the market is up there. I’m not familiar with the Honda Pan European, I’ll have to look it up
I didn’t like it. I found the seat quite restrictive and uncomfortable and the engine really buzzy especially around 4k rpm. It’s tall and so not a genuine sports tourer, more a crossover between an adventure bike and a tourer. Not for me.
I can definitely see why you’d call it a Sports / Adv crossover
$38K! 😲
Yep, it’s up there.
it's still ugly and too tall but does this version still buzz? and does the wind protection still suck?
I didn’t find it to tall and wind protection was ok, not as good as something like the RT but still adequate. In terms of buzz do you mean vibration through the bars? I didn’t really notice it like I did on the M1000R
I have the 2024 in black! It’s a great all rounder, comfy fast fun and a great tourer! topped of by brilliant BMW build quality.
@@benkelly2190agree, and build quality is second to none
Still no apple car play?
Yep, still no apple or android car play. Big miss by BMW, but they aren’t alone.
@@BikerTorque not a deal breaker but could be better.
@@moomoodeadcow agree, particularly because the BMW app is rubbish
BMW stands for Bring My Wallet, very shortly after factory warranty expires......sheep will never learn.....perfect bike:):):)
I’ve owned 4 BMWs, still have two of them, one for over 25 years, and have never had an issue after factory warranty expires. Not saying it doesn’t happen, but would be very surprised if it’s a major issue and I’d imagine pretty much every manufacturer would have at least a few claims due to warranty. Your comment seems like a huge generalisation.
I will never sell my 2015 s1000r.
I’m rapidly becoming a massive fan of the entire S1000 range. Still love my boxer twins but these litre bikes are next level. Great to hear you love yours,
Her new hair.
Well spotted. Ross’ hair is the same though.
Any BMW will never be the best at anything.
I guess you’re not counting the 2024 World Super Bike championship.
Your opinion
No
lol, fair enough. Good succinct reply though.
No not perfect chain drive not shaft
Shaft drive is always a bonus, would be great on this.
My understanding is that's what the GS is for. 🙂
Shaft drive = less performance. Chain has more direct power feed to the rear wheel
@@LooxJJ True...but, it's a Sports Tourer.
@@BikerTorque I guess the word "Sports" has to carry the weight of the performance part :D. Didn't Honda VFR had shaft too? I think Yamaha FRJ is the only thing with shaft from Japan along with BMW and Moto Guzzi.