Have to agree. New BMW owner coming from Japanese inline-4s. I traded in my 2023 S1000XR for the 2024 R1300GS. The GS actually feels like a smaller bike slow-speed than the XR. And, plenty of fun in the twisties, yet perfect pillion comfort for my wife. It may not be as good as the 1250 in some spots, but it's probably expanding the rider demographic in many others. My wife can't wait for BMW to figure out the luggage problems so that she has a top box to lean against!
Totally agree, my wife insists on the topbox on the 1250 which provides the passenger with additional security and something to lean against. The 1300 is an amazing motorbike and I really like it 👍 Best wishes Carl
Sandra’s pillion review was insightful, especially since she rides her own bike and is passenger. Please more videos with Sandra’s input, it will give my wife encouragement to get back to riding.
Hi Triguy, thank you 🙏, a message for your wife… it all changed for us as a couple once I bought the Multistrada in 2018, Sandra went from an occasional passenger to asking to join me regularly, first year we did 2k, second year 4K but in 2020 out of the blue she announced she wanted to get back onto her own bike so we bought the KTM 390 duke which she loves. Ps, TopBox really helps a passenger feel secure and I’m sure that’s what made the difference for us as a couple. Kind regards Carl
Great video, thanks for taking the time to make it. If you’re taking votes for upcoming videos, a comparison between different windscreen options would take my vote 😊
Carl, you do such a good job of planning, setting up your testing and executing your videos, thank you. Pleased to meet you Sandra and thank you for your input. There aren’t many testers actually involving pillion in the testing, this is very valuable information for those who ride pillion and with pillion and the way you and Sandra presented it is fantastic. Another reason I’ll not be upgrading to the new shiny toy. Well done again.
Hi Brian, thank you 🙏 we actually had a lot of fun putting this episode together, Sandra was very nervous before we started but soon got the hang of it. It’s a lovely motorbike and I was sad to give it back 🫣 Regards Carl
Thanks Carl for your work! and thanks also to Sandra for her friendly and competent collaboration! I appreciate your very honest videos. ciao e grazie 👍
Love the level of detail you bring to these videos! I just recently (within the last week) picked up my new 1300 GS, and one point I wholeheartedly agree with you on is that everyone's butt is different. For me, the seat on the 1300 is just about perfect; I find it more comfortable than the comfort seat on the 1250, and even more comfortable than the Sargent saddle I had on another bike! I've done a 300 km day, followed by a 250 km day, and had no soreness whatsoever - and I'm positive it'll be the same on all day rides. Probably important to note that I'm a longtime road cyclist, and as with many cyclists, I find squishy saddles to be the enemy of comfort over a 4-5 hour ride...it seems that extends to motorcycles as well; I prefer a firmer, flat-ish seat.
Well congratulations on your new R1300GS ( which colour option did you choose ?) it is a lovely motorbike and I wish you many happy miles together. Thank you for sharing 👍🙋🏻♂️ your thoughts in comfort, best wishes Carl
@ thank you! I went with the Option 719 model, more for the color scheme than the billet aluminium parts, but now that I have it, those parts are actually quite nice.
That colour option does indeed look lovely... And Im glad your finding the seat agreeable to you. I wish you a fun season ahead, our winter has arrived ice / snow season so I'm already looking to spring. Best wishes Carl
@@justthewayitis Thanks Carl, appreciate that. Ironically, we're coming into summer here in Queensland, Australia, which for me is the time of year that is least pleasant to ride, so like you, I'm looking forward to the end of this season. ;-) All the best to you and yours!
WRT seats, I chose the “high comfort seat” on the 1300. Utterly delighted with it . The high comfort seat is way better than the 1250 seat. With the “automatic “ height adjustment even short riders can choose the high comfort seat Carl.
@maxflight777 good to know. I am actually trying to decide between the new 1300 or a 1250, for I have a new generation Goldwing & a KTM 890 Adventure. I have grown to LOVE my KTM, to travel and really get on trail; bit it is NOT good for longer miles. My Goldwing is a dream to tour the distances, but it does not no off tarmac, clearly. Thus, I am looking to get best of both worlds with a beemer. The 1300 looks to be a much better suited of off highway dual track and intermediate trails. (Just the numb bum is something I want to minimize when munching miles to stray offroad.)
Hi Carl, i thank you for this review & for your wifes unbiased opinion. Shes a keeper! I follow you on all accounts and your opinion & your accssory reviews & installs are invaluble!! Thank you for your ability as a lay person to explain things in a informative and understandable fashion!!
Every review I've seen decides that the passenger is less comfortable on the 1300. Most decide that the rider is less comfortable. If you are not coming from a 1250 then maybe it's not noticeable. Too few reviewers look at the passenger needs so this is a very useful review.
Nice to meet you, Sandra! And yes, comfort is very subjective. On my old 2017 R1200GS I had the comfort seat, which was great for short rides but awful for journeys that last an entire day: my lower back didn’t like the comfort seat at all… So when I bought my current bike, a 2021 R1250GSA, I picked the standard seat which is - for me - far better in terms of comfort. ‘Nothing to prove’ also made a very nice video on the same subject if people are interested, btw.
Hi Jessica, Sandra says thank you 🙏, agreeing to be in an episode is not easy for everyone but we had a lot of fun filming as you could probably tell. Seats, totally agree… we all like different styles and shapes but as long as we find something that suits us that’s the important part. Best wishes Carl and Sandra
😉 yes indeed, plus Sandra is German so English it’s not her native language, so sometimes she uses the incorrect words, but I think most will be able to follow along. Carl 🙋🏻♂️
Sandra’s command of English is superb. I’ve spent most of my working career working with colleagues in Germany and few of them were/are as fluent. The grammar is quite different! Honest and useful thoughts on the two bikes.
Again a good video Carl. Comfort is always a subject gets close to personal opinion, but I agree with other commentators that you and your wife did a great job bringing this subject across. And I agree with you that the 1300 is more sporty and less long-distance 'relaxed'. So I bought one of the last brand-new R1250GS Trophy-editions that were left in the Netherlands!
Thank you for your message it’s a difficult subject Comfort.. as we are all different and like different things. Glad to hear you are happy with your Trophy 🏆 it’s a lovely looking GS. Kind regards Carl
Carl, another excellent video thank you. And thanks to your wife as well. I’d also like to comment on some thing that you had mentioned before about the drivers triangle and comfort. On my GS 1300 the drivers foot pegs are not adjustable. So I ended up buying the lowering foot pegs from Tour Tech. They’re awesome way better than OEM. Also, you were spot on with the rider position with the handlebars and it being more forward like a sport bike so again I bought tour tech risers with an offset that moves the handlebar closer to the driver and both of these simple modifications made it perfect for me.
Hi Paul, I think a lot of new 1300 owners might consider doing the two modifications you have done as it just opens up that space just a little but it makes a big difference. Thank you for sharing your upgrade as it will help other new 1300 owners. Have a good weekend Carl 👍
Another excellent video👍 This was really interesting. Thanks to both of you. Like yourself i am very lucky to have a wife who loves riding motorcycles. We did almost 300 km two up on the SAS today in beautiful weather. She prefers the comfort and suspension on the 1250GS i had before ( and so do i ), but the grunt of the SAS. Looking forward to the next episode.
Hi Søren, thank you 🙏, glad to hear you are lucky too, with a wife who also loves motorbikes and the freedom and joy they bring. Yes the SAS does indeed have a huge amount of grunt… very nice indeed. Glad to hear you both a had a great day out 👍. Kindest regards Carl and Sandra
Very good comparison, thanks a lot. Actually what you concluded is more or less exactly what I thought about R1250 and R1300 GS's. I was an R1200 GS owner and never ride R1250 or R1300. But from reviews, comments, looks, specs etc. I got similar thoughts about them. Somehow I still think that even if I own R1250 now I would miss the comfort of my earlier R1200 ! Thanks for the nice round up. In terms of price-performance, comfort I think R1250 is my style but what I like on R1300 though is it's compactness and the advanced tech. In the end for me all these 3 bikes are great. I wouldn't conclude that one is superior to the other. In the end it depends on the needs/style/desires/budget of the owners... By the way at the beginning of the video I was expecting somehow a shy performance from your wife before the cameras, but it turned out that she is a perfect presenter 😊 Safe rides to everyone...
Hi Savas, thank you for your kind words, my wife was a little nervous before we started but quickly she was comfortable and able to share her thoughts and experiences with the new R1300GS. Yes, you are right ! It all depends on what we want from a motorbike and the budget we have to spend. Thank you for sharing your thoughts 👍 Kind regards Carl
Hi Ian, it’s always a difficult decision buying a new motorbike, glad the series is helping, the new R1300GS is an amazing bike 👍, if I didn’t already have a 1250, I would buy one in a heartbeat Kind regards Carl
Excellent Summary Carl, wish (in some ways) I saw this before I bought my 1250 last week. I have a 1200 and waited for the 1300, only to find, with research, that the 1300 is not for me (also thanks to YTuber - TMF), hence the 1250. I do lots (4000k in week at times) of 2 up riding and my wife will also now be happy that I have made the right choice. Thx to Sandra too.
Well the 1250 is by far more comfortable for longer trips ( just my opinion ) and I’m sure your wife will be happier on the back of the new bike. Dynamically the 1300 is a superior motorbike and tech included is great and many owners are extremely happy with it.
A professional video as usual and a surprise of Sandra by your side, very refreshing from the perspective of a passenger in the back seat, another advantage is that she has experience riding a motorcycle and that is the advantage Waiting for a comparison video of an acid type battery for 1250 against a lithium battery for 1300
Hi Lavi, thank you 🙏 Well many owners have had starting problems with the new R1300GS, but it seems to be fixed now under warranty by BMW. Some new parts are fitted and the battery is ok after this work. But yes it would be an interesting comparison 👍 especially as you save a lot of weight fitting the lithium battery but is as reliable? I hope you have enjoyed a great weekend, best wishes Carl
Fantastic review between the differences on both bike i bought a brand new r1250gsa triple black 7 days ago its my 4th gs and im convinced that the 1250 is atleast for me the better bike and its lovely to see you and your wife having fun my wifes loves going on the back more than riding herself 😂
Thank you 🙏, the 1250 is a great place to be for both rider and passenger, and the GSA has even more protection from the elements. Convincing my wife to appear in a video was the most difficult task .. Have a great Sunday Carl
BMW has thought of everything in advance to offer a new model without being better than the old generation. Apple uses the same marketing strategy for their product. It is a new product that leaves a lot of room for improvement and therefore justifies changing and always changing for the improved model. don't fall into the trap
Move over Carl, Sandra has the handlebars! She did a fantastic job. My pillion has never complained going from a R1150GS through various models to the R1250gsa. The driver, however, has had major issues with changes to the front seat configuration. This has mostly been rectified by tilting the seat up at the front. All the best to you both, E & N
Very insightful and helpful details. Thank you! As a rider who enjoys BDR and off-roading, I'm happy with the level of seat comfort. I have an Airhawsk seat pad for my long rides which is actually a quite effective and cheap solution.
Great video once again. Thanks, Carl! Coming from a 1250GSA I feel almost as if the 1300GS is a moped. The engine and gearbox are a good improvement but the bike is ending the tradition of the GS/GSA having “the king of the road” look and feel. I get it why BMW does this from a commercial perspective but it leaves the GS fans a bit in the cold. If we have to believe rumours, the 1300GSA will be competing with the 1250RT in the touring segment. Let’s just hope the GSA will be just like the 1250GSA: a big allroad adventure bike. That being said, I have ordered a 1300GS and I am trading in my GSA (although I’m already starting to regret it….). After your previous video I was in doubt of the adaptive ride height but decided to stick with the sport suspension. My guess is that that will be even worse for any pillion…..
Hi Michiel, congratulations on your order of a R1300GS, the version with Sports suspension is reportedly very good 👍, yes the passenger may need to Step Up a little higher just like your 1250GSA. Many owners are waiting for the R1300GSA with the auto gearbox option but currently we do not know when it will be released. Have fun on your new R1300 GS 👍
Well I ditched my gsa for a triumph and I’ve had a few weeks of long distance travel on the T800 and I found the seating much more comfortable than my now gone gsa.
Hi John, first congratulations on your bike it always a nice feeling 👍. Thank you for sharing your experience with regards to comfort compared to your GSA , I’ve heard good things about the Triumph. Have fun with your new bike. Kindest regards Carl
I have bought two comfort seats by my BMWR1300GS. One is the standard 850 mm en the other is a 870 mm. It is a verry big difference. The 870 mm is much more comfortable. Something to think about when you order a new bike.
This is great news !!! thank you for sharing this information with the channel. I did try to get the TALL COMFORT seat from BMW, but they couldn't get it to me on time. Thank you for sharing 👍👍👍 Best Wishes Carl
Thanks for the review Carl. I’ve always swapped my seat for a sergeants seat. The BMW ones were always domed in shape, whereas the Sargent seat is quite flat which I find is better. So looks like I’ll be upgrading my seat as soon as Sargent release a R1300gs variant. 👍
@@justthewayitis the one that was on my 1250 was all day comfortable for me. So hopefully when they roll the new R1300 one out, it will be as good 🤞
When I was a young buck (30 and under) there was no such thing as a bad seat. Youth has it's advantages. Since then (roughly) I've only owned 2 motorcycles that had great factory seats. Both were BMWs. A 2013 r1200r roadsters and my relatively new 2022 r1250gs. Neither of those bikes ever required a butt break. Neither of those biked required breaking in the factory seat. Amazing. I'm not sure about the new r1300gs but I don't know how they could improve it. Just my opinion of course.
Hi Bill, we are all different, glad to hear you and your 2023 GS are getting on fine … smile. I remember too those old days of riding hours and hours without ever thinking about seat comfort. Thanks for sharing your experience, best wishes Carl
good afternoon, great reflection and even more so with the help of your partner, I have to say that the same thing happened to me, I usually do 500km or 800km outings even on travel days, and when we went to see and test the GS 1300 my partner He told me, don't be crazy about changing the 1250 for this one, and what a cost my first GS was the 1250 adventure that we had to change because we were over the mileage mark of the brand 33,000km in two years, my current GS is just one year old 18500km and pending this year in September go up to Normandy and down through the black forest of Germany. a hug
Hi Pedro Gracias por tu mensaje y por compartir tus experiencias con la 1250. La 1300 es una moto preciosa pero la 1250 es un poco más cómoda. I hope you enjoyed a great weekend 👍
Thank you so much for the comparisons between the seats, I just looked at the seat on the 1300, and it seems narrower and less comfortable than the 1250.
Hi, great review on the new gs, especially from your wife point of view. Now I have a question, I'm test riding both bikes on Friday and would like to know if you were a first-time owner of a gs, knowing what you know, which one you would buy. Thanks
Without any doubt the new R1300GS, it’s simply better in so many areas. Sure the seats could be better and I don’t like the removal of the rear taillight assembly, but overall it’s an impressive design . However testing both this week will give you a very good feeling of which one suits you, your riding style and requirements. Let me know which you choose Carl
Greetings from N.I. Nordirland as your good lady would say. Great vlog as usual and it's what I thought 1300 is not realy for two up touring. My 2021 1250 is sooooo comfortable yes the bike is a bit tall for us concessions ( over 60s) but passenger foot peg lowering does help. But as our dealer here in Belfast does NOT allow two up testing i will never know. It's like buying a car and your partner not allowed to sit in it..Bonkers so I'm off to look at the new Triumph 1200 after riding BM,s for 25 years. Regards Robert
Hi Robert, oh that’s not a great approach from your dealership, shame. The vehicle ride height control system makes a really big difference for both the rider and passenger, I think other manufacturers are going to follow that route. Best regards Carl
Great video Carl. I think a star has been born. Sandra Slayed. Is it me or does the 1250 GS suspension behave better with a pillion? Not so bouncy! It might just be the sports suspension? On the 1300 even on -2 road my wife still complained about the stiffness. Although she said it was the stiffest thing she has felt in a decade. I don’t think seat can dial out that chassis stiffness. I find this on all bikes where the engine is a full stress member. GS owner = FloppyForLife
Hi Craig, Good morning Sandra says it’s your wife’s turn to assist in your next video 😉 to keep you under control 🫣. Smile… But I do agree 2up the suspension does feel that little bit better and more compliant than the 1300. But now the 1300 is gone I’m already missing it. Carl
@@justthewayitis My wife said that I can’t afford her appearance fee. She also said I’m a lost cause and I’m beyond help. Never say never I say. In regards to the 1250 suspension. I didn’t mean compared to the 1300. I meant when I ride solo in road mode. I bounce around more than I do than with a pillion in road mode. The rebound just seems more controlled with a pillion in road mode. Strangely the ride over big bumps is better too with a pillion. It might be because of the extra stiffness and travel of the sports suspension feels plusher with more weight. The suspension comes off a 270KG GSA I guess. It gets better with more weight added. I have never had that on any other bike. Sports Carl need his sped fix :) I bet you miss it. I actually signed up for a Multistrada V4 Rally before I got the GS. Dealer was Dodgy so I cancelled the order. If I wanted a sporty adventure bike. That would be it!
Well I’ve not tried the V4S Rally or the GS with sports suspension so I would imagine on the 1300 that is as you say… the difference, maybe I can get one with sports suspension to try later in the season. I presume you tried the various DSA settings on that bike, because I noticed a difference with each adjustment in each mode, it’s a clever system which allows you to get the new GS setup how you like it but it takes time up and down the same stretch of road to understand and feel the changes. You can afford your wife’s appearance rates I’m sure, dinner out and cooking for a week would sweeten the deal 😉 I’ve got one really bumpy road not far from home and no matter what setting I use on the 1250 it’s fairly unpleasant but on the 1300 I could find a setting that offered more control. Carl 🥂
@@justthewayitis Wow I was thinking a cup of tea 🍵 🤪 Carl will blow his lid if he rides a MS V4. So don’t ride one. I sometimes think what if. Especially now Ducati has great quality control. My wife is Italian and she still hasn’t fully forgiven me for selling the StreetFighter V4. Especially because I got a BMW and her family are long time Mercedes owners. She says she hates BMW. I always tease her when she is on board. See you’re a BM girl now. That’s the real German automotive brand 🤌
Excellent video, very helpful. Something else to keep in mind, are the tires that are fitted. The demonstrator I rode at the dealership was fitted with Michelin Anakee . These I found to be very plush and confidence inspiring in the wet. The only downside was a lack of feel and slightly vague . My own bike came with Metzeler Tourance . These I found much harsher and the sensation of less grip . Feedback was much better with these though.
Hi, yes as with all motorbikes tyre choice can have a big impact on how a bike performs and feels, both bikes had Metzeler Next Tourance 2 tyres so it was easy to compare the two in terms of feedback and feel. Kind regards Carl
Thanks Carl. I am not sure if the Michelins use a softer carcass in their construction, but compared to the Metzelers the ride quality was much better. I am putting the difference between the two bikes down to tires, as both had DSA .The only other variable is, mine is fitted with the automatic ride height adjustment. The demonstrator did have 3000 miles on it. In your experience, do you think this would have made the suspension a little softer/plusher ?
I think the difference might just be down to tyres and possibly the DSA setting , suspension doesn’t really bed-in in the sort term so the 3k the test bike had I don’t think has any affect . I presume you have tried DSA in the -1 and -2 settings to see which you prefer, lots of owners like Road mode with -1 DSA. Carl
Sandra is a charming, gracious lady. That input is jmportant for me because I sold my R1250RT about a year ago and seriously regret it. So, looking to get a GS this time and trying to decide between 1250 (which I dearly love) and the 1300. In Austin, Texas traffic, which is stop and go and crazy, lighter and more agile means a lot. Plus, I’m only getting older, so lighter is better.
Hi Carl, thank you for this comparison. I have the tall comfort seat on my R1300GS and found it very uncomfortable for the first 1k miles. The seat is now broken in and feels better, but I still find myself hurting after an hour of riding. Part of the discomfort is due to me, because everyone is different. The other part is positioning - forward vs rearward seating position. I have more control over the bike if I sit all the way forward, but I have less bottom coverage from the seat and start feeling pain sooner. If I sit more towards the rear, I have wider coverage, can ride longer, but less control over the bike. I'm waiting for Wunderlich to release their heated comfort seats later this September and hopefully I will see improvement. Reducing the suspension to -2 was also helpful.
Hi Patrick, yes it just takes time for seats to break-in or for us to find the perfect seat for our shape and size and preference in terms of position. Several aftermarket options available and I’m sure most owners will find a good solution. Thank you for sharing your experience 🙋🏻♂️ Kind regards Carl
I adjusted the suspension on my R1300GS as well, also to -2 and it made quite a difference. I had my R1200GS for 6 years and had a bit of adjustment in the first year to get it perfect for me, you tend to forget that now.
great vid, the pillion perspective is often not featured ( along with headlight performance) My 1250GSA has very good standard seats, and i also have Sargent Seats which came from my 1200 and find there isn't a lot in it for comfort between them. My wife, however prefers the Sargent. I'm awaiting the announcement of the new Adventure to see if it's worth trading in again but it will have a tough act to follow on from the 1250 GSA as it's a very capable touring bike.
Hi and thank you for sharing your experience with seats… and I think many of us are waiting to see what the new GSA will be like as 50% of all GS models are the GSA version. Kind regards Carl
Hi, I rode both bikes today and thought the 1300 was overrated. The gear box was worse than the 1250 the 1300 was so clunky my be its because it was new. The quick shift would not select 5th no matter what I did . Yes, it more nimble and a bit quicker but not worth the extra money. So i have a nice new GSA1250 on the way. Can't wait Thanks
Hi Steve, congratulations on your GSA and I hope it arrives soon. FYI some of the early test bikes do not have the best gearboxes, the one I recently had on test was fantastic and I had no issues. Have fun with your GSA Regards Carl
@@Elskins WOW! Night and day - that’s a big difference! Yeah, the bike I’m looking at is at ‘21 GS and the guy literally spent something like 18,000 on accessories and parts. Only has 10,000 miles on it and not a scratch. The new bike with accessories, the ones I want anyway, would be 40,000. Or pretty close.
Hello Carl! I also have an r1250gs 2023, and having a bit of a pickle with my vlave cover guard. Anyway I can message and ask you a question to see if you can help me? Thank you!
For us, indeed it does, but some couples may find the R1300GS seats acceptable, we are all different 😉 in terms of shape and weight. We would need to find better seats that’s for sure… Carl
From a rider perspective…..Below 50mph, the 1250 is more comfortable, over 50mph.. the new one is way better. I just did a 1250km day on the 1300, that would have been impossible on the 1250. The 1300 has a clunky first and second gear, also a massive “whine “ from the straight cut gears that’s a little annoying at low speeds. It’s bloody fast though, way more compelling to own.
You need to be careful because of the other system changes that happen when moving into Enduro mode, but some owners do indeed do this on really poor roads.
@@justthewayitis thanks. Also very helpful reviews regarding many objectives. I am owner of F800GS and decided for an upgrade after 10 years. Had an opportunity to try one immediately after another 1300 and 1250 GS Adventure and next day 1250 Gs and I decided for Adventure both because of look and driving characteristics. They both have plenty of power so that was not my main point. Waiting for delivery next week. Keep on good work 😀
Hi Antonio, Well congratulations on your GSA it’s a great bike and very capable you’re going to have a great time with the GSA. Thank you for feedback about the channel and the GS series I enjoy making the episodes to help other owners get the best from their GS/A bikes Kind regards Carl
@@justthewayitis thanks! One more question if you can help me with…suspension is MIN, AUTO and MAX, correct? Is it only about height or also dumping characteristics?
On the 1250 GS/A it only adjusts Rear Preload. You will have 3 options Min, Max and Auto, Auto is the normal mode you ride in as it compensates for whatever load you add. Carl
I haven’t ridden the new 1300, on purpose. Haha However, I have a question but allow me to provide some background. I switched from a 2014 Multi to a 1250 GSA, then to a1 250GS, then to 1260 Multi, then to V4S, then to GSA again. What I have found in owning and putting at least 5k miles on each of them is that the 1250 in Dynamic was very similar or slightly more firm than the Multi in Touring mode. And of course the Multi in its firmest suspension setting was much more firm than the 1250 GS/A could offer. How would you compare the new GS 1300 to the V4S in terms of suspension? Would you say they are more similar now than previously comparing both their touring and sport modes?
Hi Paul, great question!! I do not have the answer, although I have riden the V4S several times I would need to ride them back to back to be 100% sure of my answer. The 1300 is quite amazing though in its sports bike like handling and to me feels much closer to what the V4S can offer. It would be an interesting comparison 🤞 Once you have been for your test ride perhaps you will share your thoughts 💭? Carl
BMW are sacrificing retained customers’ preferences for a different demographic hoping to get market share from Ducati and KTM. It’s a mistake because those looking for comfort may head to the Japanese, and leave BM fighting in a very competitive market against 2 very strong competitors.
@@justthewayitis Hi Carl, I agree, I’m looking forward to it. The move to a pressed frame is clearly about torsional and longitudinal rigidity. This is why it doesn’t ride as plush, I guess.
How come you make your wife ride without a top box to rest her back against? That's just brutal and needlessly tiring for the passenger. If the pillion is simply sitting upright with no backrest, there are less comfort factors in play. The pegs on the 1250 and 1300 are about the same, so it's just the seat and grab rails. When you introduce a topbox with a backrest, there are more factors to review - like the seat position (forward and backward) that changes the back angle for the pillion. The size and height of the top box also makes a difference in comfort due to placement of the back rest pad. Now that would be a very useful video - comparing various topboxes (including BMW's own) and how they affect the comfort of the passenger.
Hi Reinis, thank you for comment, however if you have been following the channel you would know we have a topbox which we always use when two up. Which has been covered in several videos. In this video i compared the new gs as it was provided by bmw ( without a topbox) to have a fair comparison. Kind regards Carl
@@justthewayitisRight. Still, it would be great if someone made a video comparing various topboxes from a capacity, practical and also pillion perspective, but alas there are none.
The best GS is the one still at the dealers because you had the good sense to buy something way cheaper and way more suitable. Okay okay, you'll guess I'm not a GS fan. Too much hype for me, a bit like buying overpriced Nike trainers when an unbranded pair for half the price (or less) does just as good a job. After 43 years of riding pretty well most types of bikes I have reached the conclusion that too many people ride a particular bike for the wrong reasons (I have worn the T-shirt myself, numerous times). From now on I tow *two* bikes on a bike trailer, while I munch the miles in my car, with more than enough space for all my kit, including a big enough tent that I can stand up. Touring has never been more fun...
Congrats on the nice video! Regarding the 1300GS , a big NO from me! Even the title of this video wisely matches the bikers' general feeling and invites people who believe that BMW has gone the wrong way. The 1300GS is not an adventure motorcycle, is a general sport touring motorcycle mainly suitable for one (short) person, not two with luggage. It is also a very ugly motorcycle, no one so far in my knowledge made a statement that this is a beautiful bike! I drove the bike, it lost the plush quality and comfort feeling of the GS. And it is VERY UGLY. I believe I had a great idea and I propose the same to you. Keep your old GS and buy a S1000r or similar to get the real agility and fun. GS is the touring adventure bike that can take you to nice places in comfort alone or with your partner and luggage. In BMW they sell also agile enduro, it is the F900GS. Sport bikes they sell as well, s1000 range. The R1300GS is in my opinion a marketing mistake executed from bad designers and will be soon revised from BMW.
Thank you for sharing your own thoughts and feelings on the new 1300. Many owners have shared a similar feeling about the new bike. Let’s see what BMW do with the GSA due out very soon. Best wishes Carl
Is unbelievable all this talk about seat comfort, what sane person would expect a OEM or aftermarket seat to be comfortable, is simply silly talk. Just get whatever seat you have re uphologestered, a good dedicated motorcycle seat uphologester will change padding to dual density, change shape & recover for aprox 1/3 the cost. Its a no brainer yet virtually no one does it, madness.
Click here for Part 1 of the R 1300GS series: th-cam.com/video/aaXNuTl5i8g/w-d-xo.html
Have to agree. New BMW owner coming from Japanese inline-4s. I traded in my 2023 S1000XR for the 2024 R1300GS. The GS actually feels like a smaller bike slow-speed than the XR. And, plenty of fun in the twisties, yet perfect pillion comfort for my wife. It may not be as good as the 1250 in some spots, but it's probably expanding the rider demographic in many others. My wife can't wait for BMW to figure out the luggage problems so that she has a top box to lean against!
Totally agree, my wife insists on the topbox on the 1250 which provides the passenger with additional security and something to lean against. The 1300 is an amazing motorbike and I really like it 👍
Best wishes Carl
Sandra’s pillion review was insightful, especially since she rides her own bike and is passenger.
Please more videos with Sandra’s input, it will give my wife encouragement to get back to riding.
Hi Triguy, thank you 🙏, a message for your wife… it all changed for us as a couple once I bought the Multistrada in 2018, Sandra went from an occasional passenger to asking to join me regularly, first year we did 2k, second year 4K but in 2020 out of the blue she announced she wanted to get back onto her own bike so we bought the KTM 390 duke which she loves.
Ps, TopBox really helps a passenger feel secure and I’m sure that’s what made the difference for us as a couple.
Kind regards Carl
Great video, thanks for taking the time to make it. If you’re taking votes for upcoming videos, a comparison between different windscreen options would take my vote 😊
Thanks for the idea!, best wishes Carl
Hello Sandra, good to meet you. Uncommonly thorough comparison as usual. By far these videos leave no stone unturned. Well played and informative.
Hi Bradley, I’ll pass on your wishes, glad you enjoyed the video.
Kindest regards Carl
This is more than just a test drive Carl. Very good to report your experience with the new GS. Please thank Sandra for her input!
Thank you Edward, I will definitely pass on your message 👍
Awesome video! Sandra was wonderful and offered a great perspective. I am looking forward to the next video. Best!
Hi Creed, thank you 🙏 Sandra took some convincing to be in front of the camera… lol.
Have a great Sunday 👍
Thank you Carl and Sandra for a fantastic video for us who usually drive with passengers.
Hi Christian , thank you 🙏
Carl, you do such a good job of planning, setting up your testing and executing your videos, thank you. Pleased to meet you Sandra and thank you for your input. There aren’t many testers actually involving pillion in the testing, this is very valuable information for those who ride pillion and with pillion and the way you and Sandra presented it is fantastic. Another reason I’ll not be upgrading to the new shiny toy. Well done again.
Hi Brian, thank you 🙏 we actually had a lot of fun putting this episode together, Sandra was very nervous before we started but soon got the hang of it.
It’s a lovely motorbike and I was sad to give it back 🫣
Regards Carl
Thanks Carl for your work! and thanks also to Sandra for her friendly and competent collaboration!
I appreciate your very honest videos. ciao e grazie 👍
Thank you 👍 much appreciated the feedback
Love the level of detail you bring to these videos! I just recently (within the last week) picked up my new 1300 GS, and one point I wholeheartedly agree with you on is that everyone's butt is different. For me, the seat on the 1300 is just about perfect; I find it more comfortable than the comfort seat on the 1250, and even more comfortable than the Sargent saddle I had on another bike! I've done a 300 km day, followed by a 250 km day, and had no soreness whatsoever - and I'm positive it'll be the same on all day rides.
Probably important to note that I'm a longtime road cyclist, and as with many cyclists, I find squishy saddles to be the enemy of comfort over a 4-5 hour ride...it seems that extends to motorcycles as well; I prefer a firmer, flat-ish seat.
Well congratulations on your new R1300GS ( which colour option did you choose ?) it is a lovely motorbike and I wish you many happy miles together. Thank you for sharing 👍🙋🏻♂️ your thoughts in comfort, best wishes Carl
@ thank you! I went with the Option 719 model, more for the color scheme than the billet aluminium parts, but now that I have it, those parts are actually quite nice.
That colour option does indeed look lovely... And Im glad your finding the seat agreeable to you. I wish you a fun season ahead, our winter has arrived ice / snow season so I'm already looking to spring. Best wishes Carl
@@justthewayitis Thanks Carl, appreciate that. Ironically, we're coming into summer here in Queensland, Australia, which for me is the time of year that is least pleasant to ride, so like you, I'm looking forward to the end of this season. ;-) All the best to you and yours!
🙋🏻♂️👍
WRT seats, I chose the “high comfort seat” on the 1300. Utterly delighted with it . The high comfort seat is way better than the 1250 seat.
With the “automatic “ height adjustment even short riders can choose the high comfort seat Carl.
Thank you 🙏 this is what I thought might be the case, thank you for confirming 👍
Interesting comment. Can you say if the high comfort seat actually had more padding in it, or is it higher because of the frame of the seat?
@@onemileattatime2642 It’s deeper with maybe 40% more padding.
@maxflight777 good to know. I am actually trying to decide between the new 1300 or a 1250, for I have a new generation Goldwing & a KTM 890 Adventure.
I have grown to LOVE my KTM, to travel and really get on trail; bit it is NOT good for longer miles.
My Goldwing is a dream to tour the distances, but it does not no off tarmac, clearly.
Thus, I am looking to get best of both worlds with a beemer. The 1300 looks to be a much better suited of off highway dual track and intermediate trails. (Just the numb bum is something I want to minimize when munching miles to stray offroad.)
Hi Carl, i thank you for this review & for your wifes unbiased opinion. Shes a keeper!
I follow you on all accounts and your opinion & your accssory reviews & installs are invaluble!!
Thank you for your ability as a lay person to explain things in a informative and understandable fashion!!
Good morning and thank you for your very kind words. More to come as the season moves along, best wishes Carl
This is one of the best video who explain the different between this bikes i have seen 😊👍
Hi Mat, thank you 🙏 glad you are enjoying the R1300GS series
Best wishes Carl
Hi Carl, thanks to you and your lovely wife Sandra for this episode! Regards, Marc, Quebec! 😉🏍🇨🇦
👍🙏
Every review I've seen decides that the passenger is less comfortable on the 1300. Most decide that the rider is less comfortable. If you are not coming from a 1250 then maybe it's not noticeable. Too few reviewers look at the passenger needs so this is a very useful review.
Yes, both seats need to be improved but I doubt BMW will listen to us 😔
Nice to meet you, Sandra!
And yes, comfort is very subjective. On my old 2017 R1200GS I had the comfort seat, which was great for short rides but awful for journeys that last an entire day: my lower back didn’t like the comfort seat at all…
So when I bought my current bike, a 2021 R1250GSA, I picked the standard seat which is - for me - far better in terms of comfort.
‘Nothing to prove’ also made a very nice video on the same subject if people are interested, btw.
Hi Jessica, Sandra says thank you 🙏, agreeing to be in an episode is not easy for everyone but we had a lot of fun filming as you could probably tell.
Seats, totally agree… we all like different styles and shapes but as long as we find something that suits us that’s the important part.
Best wishes Carl and Sandra
@@justthewayitis Yes I could tell you had fun: /whispers grab handles /giggle 🤣
😉 yes indeed, plus Sandra is German so English it’s not her native language, so sometimes she uses the incorrect words, but I think most will be able to follow along. Carl 🙋🏻♂️
Sandra’s command of English is superb. I’ve spent most of my working career working with colleagues in Germany and few of them were/are as fluent. The grammar is quite different! Honest and useful thoughts on the two bikes.
🙏, I will pass on your generous comments, I’m sure Sandra will be delighted . 👍
So is your Deutsch fluent ?
Again a good video Carl. Comfort is always a subject gets close to personal opinion, but I agree with other commentators that you and your wife did a great job bringing this subject across. And I agree with you that the 1300 is more sporty and less long-distance 'relaxed'. So I bought one of the last brand-new R1250GS Trophy-editions that were left in the Netherlands!
Thank you for your message it’s a difficult subject Comfort.. as we are all different and like different things. Glad to hear you are happy with your Trophy 🏆 it’s a lovely looking GS.
Kind regards Carl
Carl, another excellent video thank you. And thanks to your wife as well. I’d also like to comment on some thing that you had mentioned before about the drivers triangle and comfort. On my GS 1300 the drivers foot pegs are not adjustable. So I ended up buying the lowering foot pegs from Tour Tech. They’re awesome way better than OEM. Also, you were spot on with the rider position with the handlebars and it being more forward like a sport bike so again I bought tour tech risers with an offset that moves the handlebar closer to the driver and both of these simple modifications made it perfect for me.
Hi Paul, I think a lot of new 1300 owners might consider doing the two modifications you have done as it just opens up that space just a little but it makes a big difference.
Thank you for sharing your upgrade as it will help other new 1300 owners.
Have a good weekend
Carl 👍
Another excellent video👍 This was really interesting. Thanks to both of you.
Like yourself i am very lucky to have a wife who loves riding motorcycles. We did almost 300 km two up on the SAS today in beautiful weather.
She prefers the comfort and suspension on the 1250GS i had before ( and so do i ), but the grunt of the SAS.
Looking forward to the next episode.
Hi Søren, thank you 🙏, glad to hear you are lucky too, with a wife who also loves motorbikes and the freedom and joy they bring. Yes the SAS does indeed have a huge amount of grunt… very nice indeed. Glad to hear you both a had a great day out 👍.
Kindest regards Carl and Sandra
Very good comparison, thanks a lot.
Actually what you concluded is more or less exactly what I thought about R1250 and R1300 GS's.
I was an R1200 GS owner and never ride R1250 or R1300. But from reviews, comments, looks, specs etc. I got similar thoughts about them.
Somehow I still think that even if I own R1250 now I would miss the comfort of my earlier R1200 !
Thanks for the nice round up.
In terms of price-performance, comfort I think R1250 is my style but what I like on R1300 though is it's compactness and the advanced tech.
In the end for me all these 3 bikes are great. I wouldn't conclude that one is superior to the other. In the end it depends on the needs/style/desires/budget of the owners...
By the way at the beginning of the video I was expecting somehow a shy performance from your wife before the cameras, but it turned out that she is a perfect presenter 😊
Safe rides to everyone...
Hi Savas, thank you for your kind words, my wife was a little nervous before we started but quickly she was comfortable and able to share her thoughts and experiences with the new R1300GS.
Yes, you are right ! It all depends on what we want from a motorbike and the budget we have to spend.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts 👍
Kind regards Carl
Thanks for this post, will certainly help our decision making process when it comes to us buying a new bike.
Hi Ian, it’s always a difficult decision buying a new motorbike, glad the series is helping, the new R1300GS is an amazing bike 👍, if I didn’t already have a 1250, I would buy one in a heartbeat
Kind regards Carl
Excellent Summary Carl, wish (in some ways) I saw this before I bought my 1250 last week. I have a 1200 and waited for the 1300, only to find, with research, that the 1300 is not for me (also thanks to YTuber - TMF), hence the 1250. I do lots (4000k in week at times) of 2 up riding and my wife will also now be happy that I have made the right choice. Thx to Sandra too.
Well the 1250 is by far more comfortable for longer trips ( just my opinion ) and I’m sure your wife will be happier on the back of the new bike.
Dynamically the 1300 is a superior motorbike and tech included is great and many owners are extremely happy with it.
A professional video as usual and a surprise of Sandra by your side, very refreshing from the perspective of a passenger in the back seat, another advantage is that she has experience riding a motorcycle and that is the advantage
Waiting for a comparison video of an acid type battery for 1250 against a lithium battery for 1300
Hi Lavi, thank you 🙏
Well many owners have had starting problems with the new R1300GS, but it seems to be fixed now under warranty by BMW. Some new parts are fitted and the battery is ok after this work.
But yes it would be an interesting comparison 👍 especially as you save a lot of weight fitting the lithium battery but is as reliable?
I hope you have enjoyed a great weekend, best wishes Carl
Brilliant video Carl and nice to meet you Sandra 😎
Thank you 🙏
Well balanced and comprehensive review. Thank you.
Thank you Ravi 👍
Fantastic review between the differences on both bike i bought a brand new r1250gsa triple black 7 days ago its my 4th gs and im convinced that the 1250 is atleast for me the better bike and its lovely to see you and your wife having fun my wifes loves going on the back more than riding herself 😂
Thank you 🙏, the 1250 is a great place to be for both rider and passenger, and the GSA has even more protection from the elements. Convincing my wife to appear in a video was the most difficult task ..
Have a great Sunday
Carl
BMW has thought of everything in advance to offer a new model without being better than the old generation. Apple uses the same marketing strategy for their product. It is a new product that leaves a lot of room for improvement and therefore justifies changing and always changing for the improved model. don't fall into the trap
Superbe vidéo avec des commentaires toujours aussi pertinents !!!! Bravo à vous et votre épouse pour ce partage passionnant 👍
Thank you 🙏
Move over Carl, Sandra has the handlebars! She did a fantastic job.
My pillion has never complained going from a R1150GS through various models to the R1250gsa. The driver, however, has had major issues with changes to the front seat configuration. This has mostly been rectified by tilting the seat up at the front.
All the best to you both, E & N
lol Nick, very true 😉 and the ability adjustment the tilt on the 1250 is a great feature
Lg Carl
Very insightful and helpful details. Thank you! As a rider who enjoys BDR and off-roading, I'm happy with the level of seat comfort. I have an Airhawsk seat pad for my long rides which is actually a quite effective and cheap solution.
Hi, thank you for sharing your experience, I’ve heard good things about the Airhawk seat pad. Welcome to the channel, kind regards Carl
Great video once again. Thanks, Carl! Coming from a 1250GSA I feel almost as if the 1300GS is a moped. The engine and gearbox are a good improvement but the bike is ending the tradition of the GS/GSA having “the king of the road” look and feel. I get it why BMW does this from a commercial perspective but it leaves the GS fans a bit in the cold.
If we have to believe rumours, the 1300GSA will be competing with the 1250RT in the touring segment. Let’s just hope the GSA will be just like the 1250GSA: a big allroad adventure bike.
That being said, I have ordered a 1300GS and I am trading in my GSA (although I’m already starting to regret it….). After your previous video I was in doubt of the adaptive ride height but decided to stick with the sport suspension. My guess is that that will be even worse for any pillion…..
Hi Michiel, congratulations on your order of a R1300GS, the version with Sports suspension is reportedly very good 👍, yes the passenger may need to Step Up a little higher just like your 1250GSA. Many owners are waiting for the R1300GSA with the auto gearbox option but currently we do not know when it will be released.
Have fun on your new R1300 GS 👍
Well I ditched my gsa for a triumph and I’ve had a few weeks of long distance travel on the T800 and I found the seating much more comfortable than my now gone gsa.
Hi John, first congratulations on your bike it always a nice feeling 👍. Thank you for sharing your experience with regards to comfort compared to your GSA , I’ve heard good things about the Triumph.
Have fun with your new bike.
Kindest regards Carl
I have bought two comfort seats by my BMWR1300GS. One is the standard 850 mm en the other is a 870 mm. It is a verry big difference. The 870 mm is much more comfortable. Something to think about when you order a new bike.
This is great news !!! thank you for sharing this information with the channel. I did try to get the TALL COMFORT seat from BMW, but they couldn't get it to me on time.
Thank you for sharing 👍👍👍
Best Wishes Carl
Has the 870 seat more padding or a different angle compared to the other?
Nice review, thanks for sharing your thoughts
Hi John, thank you 🙏
Thanks for the review Carl. I’ve always swapped my seat for a sergeants seat. The BMW ones were always domed in shape, whereas the Sargent seat is quite flat which I find is better. So looks like I’ll be upgrading my seat as soon as Sargent release a R1300gs variant. 👍
Hi slip, please send a picture once you have your new Sargent seat, I’ve heard many good reports on them. 👍
@@justthewayitis the one that was on my 1250 was all day comfortable for me. So hopefully when they roll the new R1300 one out, it will be as good 🤞
Just checked and It does have the adjuster on the front
And now have all,the modes
Hi John, that’s great to hear 👍
When I was a young buck (30 and under) there was no such thing as a bad seat. Youth has it's advantages. Since then (roughly) I've only owned 2 motorcycles that had great factory seats. Both were BMWs. A 2013 r1200r roadsters and my relatively new 2022 r1250gs. Neither of those bikes ever required a butt break. Neither of those biked required breaking in the factory seat. Amazing. I'm not sure about the new r1300gs but I don't know how they could improve it. Just my opinion of course.
Hi Bill, we are all different, glad to hear you and your 2023 GS are getting on fine … smile.
I remember too those old days of riding hours and hours without ever thinking about seat comfort.
Thanks for sharing your experience, best wishes Carl
Hi..I will,have that coffee next time. Great videos. Thank you for the chat at abr fest..Tony
Hi Tony, lol you remembered well done and yes to that Coffee at the next ABR festival 👍🙋🏻♂️
It was very nice to meet you 🙏
Carl
good afternoon, great reflection and even more so with the help of your partner, I have to say that the same thing happened to me, I usually do 500km or 800km outings even on travel days, and when we went to see and test the GS 1300 my partner He told me, don't be crazy about changing the 1250 for this one, and what a cost my first GS was the 1250 adventure that we had to change because we were over the mileage mark of the brand 33,000km in two years, my current GS is just one year old 18500km and pending this year in September go up to Normandy and down through the black forest of Germany. a hug
Hi Pedro Gracias por tu mensaje y por compartir tus experiencias con la 1250. La 1300 es una moto preciosa pero la 1250 es un poco más cómoda.
I hope you enjoyed a great weekend 👍
Thank you so much for the comparisons between the seats, I just looked at the seat on the 1300, and it seems narrower and less comfortable than the 1250.
Hi Rob, glad you enjoyed the video 👍
Hi, great review on the new gs, especially from your wife point of view. Now I have a question, I'm test riding both bikes on Friday and would like to know if you were a first-time owner of a gs, knowing what you know, which one you would buy.
Thanks
Without any doubt the new R1300GS, it’s simply better in so many areas. Sure the seats could be better and I don’t like the removal of the rear taillight assembly, but overall it’s an impressive design .
However testing both this week will give you a very good feeling of which one suits you, your riding style and requirements.
Let me know which you choose
Carl
Greetings from N.I. Nordirland as your good lady would say. Great vlog as usual and it's what I thought 1300 is not realy for two up touring. My 2021 1250 is sooooo comfortable yes the bike is a bit tall for us concessions ( over 60s) but passenger foot peg lowering does help. But as our dealer here in Belfast does NOT allow two up testing i will never know. It's like buying a car and your partner not allowed to sit in it..Bonkers so I'm off to look at the new Triumph 1200 after riding BM,s for 25 years. Regards Robert
Hi Robert, oh that’s not a great approach from your dealership, shame. The vehicle ride height control system makes a really big difference for both the rider and passenger, I think other manufacturers are going to follow that route.
Best regards Carl
Great video Carl.
I think a star has been born. Sandra Slayed.
Is it me or does the 1250 GS suspension behave better with a pillion? Not so bouncy! It might just be the sports suspension?
On the 1300 even on -2 road my wife still complained about the stiffness.
Although she said it was the stiffest thing she has felt in a decade.
I don’t think seat can dial out that chassis stiffness. I find this on all bikes where the engine is a full stress member.
GS owner = FloppyForLife
Hi Craig,
Good morning
Sandra says it’s your wife’s turn to assist in your next video 😉 to keep you under control 🫣. Smile…
But I do agree 2up the suspension does feel that little bit better and more compliant than the 1300. But now the 1300 is gone I’m already missing it.
Carl
@@justthewayitis
My wife said that I can’t afford her appearance fee. She also said I’m a lost cause and I’m beyond help.
Never say never I say.
In regards to the 1250 suspension. I didn’t mean compared to the 1300.
I meant when I ride solo in road mode. I bounce around more than I do than with a pillion in road mode.
The rebound just seems more controlled with a pillion in road mode.
Strangely the ride over big bumps is better too with a pillion.
It might be because of the extra stiffness and travel of the sports suspension feels plusher with more weight. The suspension comes off a 270KG GSA I guess. It gets better with more weight added. I have never had that on any other bike.
Sports Carl need his sped fix :)
I bet you miss it.
I actually signed up for a Multistrada V4 Rally before I got the GS. Dealer was Dodgy so I cancelled the order. If I wanted a sporty adventure bike. That would be it!
Well I’ve not tried the V4S Rally or the GS with sports suspension so I would imagine on the 1300 that is as you say… the difference, maybe I can get one with sports suspension to try later in the season.
I presume you tried the various DSA settings on that bike, because I noticed a difference with each adjustment in each mode, it’s a clever system which allows you to get the new GS setup how you like it but it takes time up and down the same stretch of road to understand and feel the changes.
You can afford your wife’s appearance rates I’m sure, dinner out and cooking for a week would sweeten the deal 😉
I’ve got one really bumpy road not far from home and no matter what setting I use on the 1250 it’s fairly unpleasant but on the 1300 I could find a setting that offered more control.
Carl 🥂
@@justthewayitis
Wow I was thinking a cup of tea 🍵 🤪
Carl will blow his lid if he rides a MS V4. So don’t ride one.
I sometimes think what if.
Especially now Ducati has great quality control.
My wife is Italian and she still hasn’t fully forgiven me for selling the StreetFighter V4.
Especially because I got a BMW and her family are long time Mercedes owners.
She says she hates BMW.
I always tease her when she is on board. See you’re a BM girl now. That’s the real German automotive brand 🤌
Smile….😀
Excellent video, very helpful. Something else to keep in mind, are the tires that are fitted. The demonstrator I rode at the dealership was fitted with Michelin Anakee . These I found to be very plush and confidence inspiring in the wet. The only downside was a lack of feel and slightly vague . My own bike came with Metzeler Tourance . These I found much harsher and the sensation of less grip . Feedback was much better with these though.
Hi, yes as with all motorbikes tyre choice can have a big impact on how a bike performs and feels, both bikes had Metzeler Next Tourance 2 tyres so it was easy to compare the two in terms of feedback and feel.
Kind regards Carl
Thanks Carl. I am not sure if the Michelins use a softer carcass in their construction, but compared to the Metzelers the ride quality was much better. I am putting the difference between the two bikes down to tires, as both had DSA .The only other variable is, mine is fitted with the automatic ride height adjustment. The demonstrator did have 3000 miles on it. In your experience, do you think this would have made the suspension a little softer/plusher ?
I think the difference might just be down to tyres and possibly the DSA setting , suspension doesn’t really bed-in in the sort term so the 3k the test bike had I don’t think has any affect .
I presume you have tried DSA in the -1 and -2 settings to see which you prefer, lots of owners like Road mode with -1 DSA.
Carl
Thanks Carl, the -1 on road is what I am currently using .It must be down to the tires then 😄
Sandra is a charming, gracious lady. That input is jmportant for me because I sold my R1250RT about a year ago and seriously regret it. So, looking to get a GS this time and trying to decide between 1250 (which I dearly love) and the 1300. In Austin, Texas traffic, which is stop and go and crazy, lighter and more agile means a lot. Plus, I’m only getting older, so lighter is better.
Then the 1300 with AVHC is the one to go for much more nimble. 👍
@@justthewayitis Thanks, brother!
Happy wife = Happy life = More riding!!!!
Or.....stay single!!!😂😂😂😂
Cheers Carl!!!!
Hi Federico 🙋🏻♂️, yes a happy Wife = more riding
Best wishes Carl 🙏
Interesting video 🏴
Hi Martin, thank you 🙏👍
Hi Carl, thank you for this comparison.
I have the tall comfort seat on my R1300GS and found it very uncomfortable for the first 1k miles. The seat is now broken in and feels better, but I still find myself hurting after an hour of riding. Part of the discomfort is due to me, because everyone is different. The other part is positioning - forward vs rearward seating position. I have more control over the bike if I sit all the way forward, but I have less bottom coverage from the seat and start feeling pain sooner. If I sit more towards the rear, I have wider coverage, can ride longer, but less control over the bike. I'm waiting for Wunderlich to release their heated comfort seats later this September and hopefully I will see improvement. Reducing the suspension to -2 was also helpful.
Hi Patrick, yes it just takes time for seats to break-in or for us to find the perfect seat for our shape and size and preference in terms of position.
Several aftermarket options available and I’m sure most owners will find a good solution. Thank you for sharing your experience 🙋🏻♂️
Kind regards Carl
I adjusted the suspension on my R1300GS as well, also to -2 and it made quite a difference. I had my R1200GS for 6 years and had a bit of adjustment in the first year to get it perfect for me, you tend to forget that now.
Hi, once set up the way you like it the new 1300 is a wonderful place to be. 👍
Best wishes Carl
great vid, the pillion perspective is often not featured ( along with headlight performance) My 1250GSA has very good standard seats, and i also have Sargent Seats which came from my 1200 and find there isn't a lot in it for comfort between them. My wife, however prefers the Sargent.
I'm awaiting the announcement of the new Adventure to see if it's worth trading in again but it will have a tough act to follow on from the 1250 GSA as it's a very capable touring bike.
Hi and thank you for sharing your experience with seats… and I think many of us are waiting to see what the new GSA will be like as 50% of all GS models are the GSA version.
Kind regards Carl
Fantastic job, thx
Hi Oleg, thank you 🙏
If you order the topcase carrier, you get a metal grab handle/rear rack rather than the plastic.
Ah !!! Thank you 🙏 that makes sense, thank you for sharing this important information 👍
Hi, I rode both bikes today and thought the 1300 was overrated. The gear box was worse than the 1250 the 1300 was so clunky my be its because it was new.
The quick shift would not select 5th no matter what I did . Yes, it more nimble and a bit quicker but not worth the extra money.
So i have a nice new GSA1250 on the way.
Can't wait
Thanks
Hi Steve, congratulations on your GSA and I hope it arrives soon. FYI some of the early test bikes do not have the best gearboxes, the one I recently had on test was fantastic and I had no issues.
Have fun with your GSA
Regards Carl
Thank I can't wait
Excellent review
Thank you Ahmad 🙋🏻♂️
I do belive that the settings of suspension for better confort must be in +2 instead of -2.
Hi Rodrigo, +2 is firmer or stiffer.
-2 is softer or more compliant.
So for a more comfortable ride use -2.
Best wishes Carl
Thanks i can't wait
Thanks, appreciate your comparison. I guess I keep my 2019 GS with Tractive/Touratech suspension then. My wife loves the comfy ride.
Glad you enjoyed the video 🙏
Actually I’m looking at a GS 1250 with Wunderlich Tractive suspension already installed front and rear. Like it? Real benefits?
@@pneumaticman5927 night and day compared to 1250 stock suspension on our broken tarmac roads, not to mention offroad.
@@Elskins WOW! Night and day - that’s a big difference! Yeah, the bike I’m looking at is at ‘21 GS and the guy literally spent something like 18,000 on accessories and parts. Only has 10,000 miles on it and not a scratch. The new bike with accessories, the ones I want anyway, would be 40,000. Or pretty close.
get an airhawk (or similar) - job done, it will not matter what the seat is like, you will have the same comfort everywhere you go
Probably a good idea 👏 Thank you, Carl
Hello Carl! I also have an r1250gs 2023, and having a bit of a pickle with my vlave cover guard. Anyway I can message and ask you a question to see if you can help me? Thank you!
Hi Jhon, of course just go to my channel and you will find my email address.
Carl
Interesting Carl, seems the 1250 wins the pillion comfort challange
For us, indeed it does, but some couples may find the R1300GS seats acceptable, we are all different 😉 in terms of shape and weight.
We would need to find better seats that’s for sure…
Carl
I will do thanks
We like Sandra, she’s fabulous. Best wishes to both of you.
Smile 👍
From a rider perspective…..Below 50mph, the 1250 is more comfortable, over 50mph.. the new one is way better.
I just did a 1250km day on the 1300, that would have been impossible on the 1250.
The 1300 has a clunky first and second gear, also a massive “whine “ from the straight cut gears that’s a little annoying at low speeds.
It’s bloody fast though, way more compelling to own.
Points I do agree with 🙋🏻♂️
Wunderlich AKTIVKOMFORT seat will solve the problem ...
Hi, I hope it does as the standard comfort seat is not very good.
Thank you for sharing
🙋🏻♂️ Carl
I just want to find a passenger backrest, not seeing any around but need one for my kiddo.
Hi, sorry I haven’t seen one but I’m sure someone makes an option 👍 for the new GS
@@justthewayitis only finding driver's seat backrests :( hopefully soon! :)
Good luck with your search
Would ENDURO dumping mode help (in comparing to ROAD setting) for better driving experienceon those low quality roads?
You need to be careful because of the other system changes that happen when moving into Enduro mode, but some owners do indeed do this on really poor roads.
@@justthewayitis thanks. Also very helpful reviews regarding many objectives. I am owner of F800GS and decided for an upgrade after 10 years. Had an opportunity to try one immediately after another 1300 and 1250 GS Adventure and next day 1250 Gs and I decided for Adventure both because of look and driving characteristics. They both have plenty of power so that was not my main point. Waiting for delivery next week. Keep on good work 😀
Hi Antonio, Well congratulations on your GSA it’s a great bike and very capable you’re going to have a great time with the GSA.
Thank you for feedback about the channel and the GS series I enjoy making the episodes to help other owners get the best from their GS/A bikes
Kind regards Carl
@@justthewayitis thanks! One more question if you can help me with…suspension is MIN, AUTO and MAX, correct? Is it only about height or also dumping characteristics?
On the 1250 GS/A it only adjusts Rear Preload.
You will have 3 options Min, Max and Auto, Auto is the normal mode you ride in as it compensates for whatever load you add. Carl
I haven’t ridden the new 1300, on purpose. Haha
However, I have a question but allow me to provide some background. I switched from a 2014 Multi to a 1250 GSA, then to a1 250GS, then to 1260 Multi, then to V4S, then to GSA again.
What I have found in owning and putting at least 5k miles on each of them is that the 1250 in Dynamic was very similar or slightly more firm than the Multi in Touring mode. And of course the Multi in its firmest suspension setting was much more firm than the 1250 GS/A could offer.
How would you compare the new GS 1300 to the V4S in terms of suspension? Would you say they are more similar now than previously comparing both their touring and sport modes?
Hi Paul, great question!!
I do not have the answer, although I have riden the V4S several times I would need to ride them back to back to be 100% sure of my answer.
The 1300 is quite amazing though in its sports bike like handling and to me feels much closer to what the V4S can offer.
It would be an interesting comparison 🤞
Once you have been for your test ride perhaps you will share your thoughts 💭?
Carl
In my opinion a Sargent seat is the most comfortable seat to have.
Hi Jack, hopefully I will get to test one 1️⃣.
Regards Carl
BMW are sacrificing retained customers’ preferences for a different demographic hoping to get market share from Ducati and KTM. It’s a mistake because those looking for comfort may head to the Japanese, and leave BM fighting in a very competitive market against 2 very strong competitors.
Hi Alberto, we will have to wait and see what the GSA version offers as that might fill the gap.
@@justthewayitis Hi Carl, I agree, I’m looking forward to it. The move to a pressed frame is clearly about torsional and longitudinal rigidity. This is why it doesn’t ride as plush, I guess.
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Ducati Multistrada v4s is the answer.
Hi BC, I’ve only tested the V4S twice both on short runs, about 45 mins both times. Very nice 👍
How come you make your wife ride without a top box to rest her back against? That's just brutal and needlessly tiring for the passenger. If the pillion is simply sitting upright with no backrest, there are less comfort factors in play. The pegs on the 1250 and 1300 are about the same, so it's just the seat and grab rails. When you introduce a topbox with a backrest, there are more factors to review - like the seat position (forward and backward) that changes the back angle for the pillion. The size and height of the top box also makes a difference in comfort due to placement of the back rest pad. Now that would be a very useful video - comparing various topboxes (including BMW's own) and how they affect the comfort of the passenger.
Hi Reinis, thank you for comment, however if you have been following the channel you would know we have a topbox which we always use when two up. Which has been covered in several videos.
In this video i compared the new gs as it was provided by bmw ( without a topbox) to have a fair comparison.
Kind regards Carl
@@justthewayitisRight. Still, it would be great if someone made a video comparing various topboxes from a capacity, practical and also pillion perspective, but alas there are none.
The Wife is german ?
Indeed Sandra is.
The best GS is the one still at the dealers because you had the good sense to buy something way cheaper and way more suitable.
Okay okay, you'll guess I'm not a GS fan. Too much hype for me, a bit like buying overpriced Nike trainers when an unbranded pair for half the price (or less) does just as good a job. After 43 years of riding pretty well most types of bikes I have reached the conclusion that too many people ride a particular bike for the wrong reasons (I have worn the T-shirt myself, numerous times).
From now on I tow *two* bikes on a bike trailer, while I munch the miles in my car, with more than enough space for all my kit, including a big enough tent that I can stand up. Touring has never been more fun...
Looks like in some areas BMW is trying to have the cake and eat it 😂
Smile 😊
Listen up people here is the BIG truth about this
1300 is way more comfortable
Congrats on the nice video! Regarding the 1300GS , a big NO from me! Even the title of this video wisely matches the bikers' general feeling and invites people who believe that BMW has gone the wrong way. The 1300GS is not an adventure motorcycle, is a general sport touring motorcycle mainly suitable for one (short) person, not two with luggage. It is also a very ugly motorcycle, no one so far in my knowledge made a statement that this is a beautiful bike! I drove the bike, it lost the plush quality and comfort feeling of the GS. And it is VERY UGLY. I believe I had a great idea and I propose the same to you. Keep your old GS and buy a S1000r or similar to get the real agility and fun. GS is the touring adventure bike that can take you to nice places in comfort alone or with your partner and luggage. In BMW they sell also agile enduro, it is the F900GS. Sport bikes they sell as well, s1000 range. The R1300GS is in my opinion a marketing mistake executed from bad designers and will be soon revised from BMW.
Thank you for sharing your own thoughts and feelings on the new 1300. Many owners have shared a similar feeling about the new bike. Let’s see what BMW do with the GSA due out very soon.
Best wishes Carl
Is unbelievable all this talk about seat comfort, what sane person would expect a OEM or aftermarket seat to be comfortable, is simply silly talk.
Just get whatever seat you have re uphologestered, a good dedicated motorcycle seat uphologester will change padding to dual density, change shape & recover for aprox 1/3 the cost. Its a no brainer yet virtually no one does it, madness.
Honda 😂
GET A PAN AMERICA PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Take the car 🙄
LOL