I think your the only person along with a few others that are totally honest about your reasons for selling your GS. I like your honest approach. Big respect for you for that. Many GS owners are lie harley Owners. They wont give an honest review of their bikes. All bikes have something wrong with them in some way. Thanks
Awesome. I’m in high school and I’ll be getting this bike for my Christmas present. I’ve worked and saved up all my money for this bike. Thanks for the review. I’m excited
Hi Matt - thanks so much for posting this video. How refreshing it is to see an honest, sincere review, rather than a BMW sponsored video full of glorious things that are just (way) too hard to believe. I've owned Ducati's for years and now will purchase a BMG GS 1200 Rallye 2017 this Saturday. I'm as stoked as you were !! I do love my Ducati Enduro, and now I'll experience the GS too. I live in Mexico so the roads are pretty rough (to say the least). I know the GS can handle it. Many BMW serious riders here I look forward in meeting. I'm off to Baja shortly, then perhaps thru USA to meet with family in Kansas. Looking forward to the quick shifter. I'll continue to follow your postings and just wanted to say Thank You for your inspiration. Please keep up the adventure postings as I learn a lot from you !!! Keep me posted on your soft luggage panniers - looks interesting. I'm only familiar with hard aluminum cases - soft is better?? I noticed your barkbusters too - good idea. UPDATE: I just purchased my new BMW Rallye 1200 - 2017 model. Bike is incredible - coming from Ducati, I was worried about the lack of power. I'm no longer worried. It has plenty of power. Compared to the Ducati Enduro - this BMW is super smooth and a refined machine. I am very relieved and pleased. The bike is super good looking WOW. Man I get a ton of looks on the road - I'll need to be careful and keep it safe. It has hard panniers which are too big for me (with Roto Pax gas containers on the sides to boot) - so I'll need to look into the GIVI or BMW Atacama soft panniers - especially for off road use. It's a well engineered machine - it even has crash "breakaway" slots on the clutch and brake levers (which will still function if I crash and snap a lever) so I don't need to replace the factory levers for expensive folding ones. The Nav 6 is awesome. Seat is comfortable and I enjoy the one piece for more flexibility. Crash bars to protect the Boxer head a must. I'm not crazy about the quick shift because I enjoy clutching (but it is smooth). It's a well balanced machine and the boxer dynamics thru the curves will take some getting used to. Headlights are OK (with fog lights) but still not as bright as the Ducati Enduro. Cruise control is good. No handlebar switch back lighting unfortunately so I'll need to memorize them quickly. Emergency light switch should be more accessible though (we use these a lot in Mexico). Footbegs feel good. Thanks again Matt for your video and encouragement.
Thanks for this very honest and useful feedback. I am not surprised that you will lack time to ride the bike on and on. These bikes are made for riding and you can never get enough of it!
I've had my 2016 1200 gsa for a little over a year now. I absolutely love it. I've had a few other bikes mostly honda cbrs and dirt bikes. I've rode to and then around the Mojave. Its not for everyone I got mine used from the dealership and it was under 1200.00 out the door. I rode off and never looked back. Good job on the video moto brother.
Nice work Matt. That bike looks great with those blue crash bars. Great tip about using Rever to plan routes, I'll have to check that out. Thanks for posting!
Thank Tim. The Rever is app is great. I reallyt like the Challenges for crossing passes and visiting national parks. I have modified routes to grab some of these locations. The Butler map overlay makes it worth it to find some really great routes. Cheers.
Mat you make some excellent points. In late October 2017 I bought a BMW S1000XR it had 340 miles on it (but was never titled) when I got it so it sold as new. I put it away for the winter with just over 11,000 miles on it. BMW makes incredible bikes I rarely get on my XR with out it going at leat 100 miles. Three days ago my wife let me purchase a 2018 R1200 GS Adventure Rally. Just from riding it around the parking lot at the dealer, hopping their curb and a few things I can tell this bike is going to call me away from home a lot. I am lucky though my wife likes to ride about as much as I do either beside me on her KTM or behind me on the XR, as a matter of fact most of the miles it has have been two up. I heard you mention leave, thank you for your service, I am also a vet and am in my 24th year as a cop (not a traffic cop) and I now get five weeks off a year so a lot of riding will be had. I now can't wait till the roads are clear of salt ( I live in Ohio) and I can get this new bike broke in. Take care, have fun and enjoy the ride.
He's right, they are killer! I've ridden around the country and am putting in many miles. For a 500 + lb bike, it rides light as my road racing bike. It also does a great job of social distancing.
Great overview Matt (just subscribed). I have an order in for the 1250 GSA and after watching this I am wondering if I should re-consider! Best, Darren.
I've been a Cruiser rider (Yamaha V-Star 1300 and a new Yamaha Eluder) for the last 6 years with almost 75,000 miles ridden. I have the same feeling about "needing to go ride". Lucky for me, I work a week on, week off so I can always find the time. If you haven't seen his channel check out Shawn Smoak. He actually has to channels, one's a daily vlog, the other is more of a moto-vlog. He's a certified Master Mechanic for BRP and BMW in Vancouver, WA. He just did a moto-vlog on the new R1250GSA HP! Now I want one REAL BAD, but I'm still paying for my 2018 Yamaha Eluder!
Thanks for the suggestion, I have seen Shawn's channel. Impressive mileage, you might feel compelled to ride even more on an R1250GS. That could be good and bad.
@@advmatt - Only I've NEVER done ANY off road riding! I live and work along the Gulf Coast... Not too many off road adventures available. So a GSA might be a waste of money... But I still want one!
Nice video! Love the caution at the end about it becoming an obsession. Gonna have 90 days of terminal leave plus TDY this summer… I hope my KLR keeps up! May have to trade it in for a GS somewhere across country!
I rode back in the mid to late 60s, and it was on a BMW too. An R/51/3. 500cc twin. The pleasure of riding never goes away. I can safely say you're hooked. I still have a love for bikes and honestly, BMW has been on the forefront. I'm 68 years old and have no desire to put it all behind me. Ride Safe and enjoy it. It really sounds like it's getting time for you to make a Coast to Coast ride and check out as many sights as you can. That bike you have now can do it with ease. Enjoy!
Thank you for your comments. I have been riding on and off my entire life but this bike changed me. I having been thinking about a coast to coast, maybe the TAT, but I think I might do a border to border through the Rockies this summer. Ride safe and I will see you out there.
Canada's just as nice as any Country. Be sure you have your passport current when you go, but you will not be dissappointed. The roads are beautiful, the natives are really friendly, food is delicious, and you'll love it!! Even if you dont stop until you go deep into Quebec. English is spoken almost everywhere and even if not, you will be loved no matter what. Summer is the best time to make a trip like that. Exchange your money at the border. Be sure to take enough, but you will find Canadian dollar goes a little further than here. Fuel is sold by the liter there, but on a motorcycle you will still do very well on the price. Mexico border towns are crap, so be careful down south. I'd carry if I were headed there just to have an extra bit of personal security. Anywhere deeper South of the border and its quite different, but still be careful. God Bless and have fun on your trip!!
I completely agree about wanting to ride a lot more with this bike. A dream to ride. Fortunately I am retired and have the time 8-) albeit tempered by being married 8-)
Sounds like you are hooked on riding as much as I am. I just took early retirement earlier this week so watch out next year. It will be hard to find me home.
You said it was not a review of the bike. At first I wanted to bust your chops, but yea, MAN you were correct. It is about expectations and surprises! WELL DONE. You even took the effort to fade in the music at the end. GOOD MUSIC. SO so many do that all wrong. I have to Sub and a big T-up. * * * * RIDE LONG-RIDE FAR-RIDE SAFE * * * * About the FREE time needed to go riding, yea, thats a tough one. Finally in my mid sixties, I have the time, but not the health or money to take big trips. But getting to ride once in a while, is better than nothing. Gone are the iron butt rides. But that is ok, great memories ! A few tips, if you don't mind. I was at the top 1/10 of 1% ... skillz ...in my prime. ( 1990's) I even swam one hour a day to have the physical stamina. Seems to me you might be doing all this... but just in case... 1. Riding since 1969, I learned the hard way that ATGATT is of most importance. I ride "MOTOPORT". Used up all the others. Nothing even comes close. That said, ARAI helmets, if you value the noggin. 2. You are invisible, never forget that! Light given off is way more effective that light reflected. BEST MONEY spent for safety, other than MOTOPORT, Clearwater Lights... Darlas or Ericas. Both way more gooder...lol 3. If you have not, take all the schools you can!! C.L.A.S.S, all the MSF courses, even race school. Off road schools. After 20 yrs of riding, I found out i pretty much knew nothing compared to what schools can teach. 4. Read TWIST OF THE WRIST! and any other stuff to become an awesome & safe operator. 5. When it comes to riding a M/C or flying a plane, you can not know to much. The learning curve ease's up, but you never stop learning. There are old pilots ( also m/c riders) bold pilots,.... but old bold, not so much. 6. I would be honored to one day meet you on the road. 7. Why didn't you get the GSA? Your bike with all the protection bars is almost the same weight when dry. The extra gas only adds about 14 pounds.
Thanks for advice, good nuggets of wisdom. I have started implementing a few of these since filming this video nearly 2 years ago. I chose the Rallye because it has the same travel as the GSA with a slightly stiffer spring rate. I wanted this for offroad riding. I dont need the extra fuel capacity (most of the time) and wanted to choose my own luggage rack and crash bars. I know I still have lots to learn about riding and the learning will never end. Thanks for tuning in. I am trying to keep it fun and real from an average riders perspective.
@@advmatt Thanks Matt! AND thank you for your Service ! How has the reliability been with the GS? I forgot to mention my Expectations and Surprises. I have owned cruisers, 180 hp super bikes and MANY GS's. YES INDEED, once you get into the ZIN of the mighty GS, nothing even comes close. To do better one would need 3 bikes. Something around the 200~ 300 pound range for off road and a dedicated track bike. That is the only way to extract more from the riding tasks/ fun at hand. In case you did not know, check this out brother! th-cam.com/video/zYp1zXyc0fA/w-d-xo.html&feature=emb_logo
Possibly the best "ALL ROUNDER" BMW has ever made. But I am biased.. However,,, I'm totally enjoying my 2020 R1250R as my other choice when I walk in the garage and choose a bike to ride for the day.
That sub-Fender must go, mine is in a plastic box in my garden shack since day one. It doesn’t show on your video, but the bike is probably on the center stand, lots of weight I don’t need, but sometimes it’s useful... Nice blue crash bars, they match perfectly,.
Nice video Matt. I’m buying the 2021 GSA on Monday! Going from a 2020 RS that I didn’t find particularly comfortable on a 1300 mile trip I took last year.
Thanks for the feedback. I’ve got one too and feel it’s a bit saggy on the throttle in enduro pro. Didn’t know there were settings!! I will remove that rain mode (or whatever it has) first thing tomorrow!
I have the same bike and I love it!!! I like the upper and lower crash bar matching the color of the frame! Looks awesome! Would you mind telling me where you purchased them from? Thank you for the video!!! 😎👍🏻🏍
The dealers in my area sold all their Rallyes but have a few Rallye GSA - outside of a handful off camping trips i'm mostly in for commuting and joy riding. Is the GSA overkill? - plus the extra $ not sure if its worth it. Otherwise I'll have to order it from out of state from a dealership I found thats selling their demos. Thanks for all the great info
Based on what you are planning to do, you have to evaluate whether you need a fuel tank with two more gallons, want the BMW stock crash bar protection package and also get the BMW stock luggage racks. There are lots of options for crash protection depending on your needs and lots of luggage options. I don't think the cost of aftermarket crash bars and luggage racks will come close to the added cost of the GSA. I also don't think the added fuel range is necessary. There are plenty of options for carrying extra fuel when you go camping if you think you need it. I prefer the narrower profile of the GS over the GSA, but the GSA did not fell terribly wide while riding. Just my thoughts. Good luck finding the bike you want.
Hi Matt Thanks for the info they are things that I would not have known otherwise (no one seems to mention that kind of stuff). I am interested in the R1250GSA and sat on one in minimum suspension setting with my feet flat on the ground so it felt good. I have not ridden one yet (scared I would buy it!). Can I ask you do you get much heat from the boxer engine heads on your legs when riding (it’s been 30 to 40 degrees C here this summer so any unwanted extra heat would be a pain). Cheers.
Yes, in those temps you will feel the heat, I only have water proof boots so it can be pretty hot in summer heat. I think in a good vented boot it will be fine, especially at speed.
I havent found spring replacements only complete shocks but you can try contacting the guys at the website beemershop.com, they are suspension specialists. I plan to upgrade the suspension in the future and I will go through these guys.
I completely removed the garmon gps bracket & hardware. Problem solved. Only thing on the GS. That sucked I thought. Besides, so many better hand held GPS’s. That you can always mount on bars with a RAM device. That’s NOT SMACK DAB IN YOUR FIELD OF VISION.
I havent used it for navigation in over a year. I use phone app REVER for that. I found the BMW Garmin to have issues with screen jumping that was replaced under warranty. Need to do it again. I do like having the bike data.
@@straightpride442 that's the beauty of an app like Rever, you can build your route from your computer, download it to your phone and never need cell service. Just have to remember to download before leaving. I have been using it for years and it was primary navigation to Baja and back, as well the BDRs.
@@advmatt Cool. Thx for heads up. Just downloaded it. But if there’s no cell signal. Even on a downloaded map on REVER. How does the app. Know where you are on the map ?
I use Rever.co on my phone and do the route mapping from the Rever.co website on my computer. I upload the .GPX files from Rever.co to the Garmin using the Garmin software. I pay the annual fee on Rever.co which provides some more features. I am not sure if this completely answers your questions.
I do have the sport suspension, I think it is a bit under damped offroad with the automatic tuning. The offroad suspension cant be remapped. I would more compression damping and faster rebound.
@@advmatt So i know the sport suspension feature a bit heavier spring rate and also .8" more travel. I wonder if the slow and high speed dampening is also increased on the sport Suspension?
@@superflycatchermtb I wasnt able find any information on compression and rebound settings for each of the different suspension modes. I know for $5k I can get a tuned touratech suspension, but that is a lot.
Isn't your bike a Rallye? The one in the video you mention going round a mx track is the rallyx it has an extra 20mm of suspension travel as it's out of the GSA bike.
The rallye version doesn't have longer travel suspension. It has the possibility to mount the adv suspension - the optional is called "SPORT suspension". In fact I own a normal version 195mm (vs 215) because I mainly ride on tarmac 😉
If you have the Rallye it has the GSA suspension, which sits taller than a standard GS. If I remember correctly it is 30mm more travel. It is a tall bike.
So I just saw this video for the first time. I have watched most of you 390 Adv videos. I have one too. I live this bike. So you went from a BMW to a 390 ktm? I don't want a big bike either.
@@Froggy-jn9mu I have looked into it to replace the BMW, not the 390. I am waiting to see if a new smaller adventure bikes will be released. I was holding out for the KTM 490 Adventure but it's not coming. Honda might have a middle weight coming so I might weight for that.
“Make sure your marriage is strong and kids don’t hate you” - absolutely right. On the other hand though, when your marriage is weak and your kids hate you, you need this bike even more. So you need this bike anyways 😁
Do have the sport suspension? That option (installed at factory) It gives 2cm (0.8 inch) higher suspension and a stiffer suspension (comes of the Adventure)
@@advmatt I have the same bike and I am 6'3" and 200 lbs, and think the dynamic ESA adjusts just fine. When you set the ESA to dynamic, you get a stiffer ride. Last option would be to buy new suspensions, e.g. Touratech. You will still keep the ESA function, just get custom suspension to your liking.
@@larsv6144 I agree with you. The dynamic suspension is fantastic in Dyna Pro for road riding. However, in the Enduro/Pro mode the suspension on my bike is limited to the Enduro suspension settings. I asked the dealership if the suspension settings could be changed for Enduro mode and was told it could not be changed. I the struts/shocks only have one compression dampening circuit. I think the slow speed compression response is really good, I would just like to have a second circuit for high speed compression dampening to absorb the bigger hits that eat up the suspension. Touratech may be in my future at some point but it is expensive. Thanks for commenting. I like to see other peoples thoughts.
When you buy anything make sure you do your research correctly, because i bought a 2018 Zx10r and i shit you not the salesman didn't know shit!!! Not saying all but sometime you just in a area where not much options are available and you have to go to that place to buy it Specially with this new bikes so much technology comes with it they are useful in many ways, but you need to know first
Great vid - when I upgrade my 700 it'll be this or an AT. I am looking into the Voyager Pro for a GPS - looks much better for off-road stuff (which is mostly wat I do) - worth a look I think. th-cam.com/video/yTsf2ierA9c/w-d-xo.html
![R1200GS / R1250GS | Complete Buyer's Guide [2005-2020]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9arUyUFD5wk/mqdefault.jpg)
![[UNCUT] ลูกหมี-ลิลลี่ เหงียน เปิดใจฟาด ปู มัณฑนา I คนดังนั่งเคลียร์ I 15 ก.ค.67](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FKQ60Y7bJ6s/mqdefault.jpg)
On my second GSA and love it. Best motorcycle I’ve owned in all my 68 years. I agree on BaseCamp, not user friendly.
I think your the only person along with a few others that are totally honest about your reasons for selling your GS. I like your honest approach. Big respect for you for that. Many GS owners are lie harley Owners. They wont give an honest review of their bikes. All bikes have something wrong with them in some way. Thanks
I appreciate the feedback. I get roasted for saying anything negative about this bike from the loyalists. Cheers.
Awesome. I’m in high school and I’ll be getting this bike for my Christmas present. I’ve worked and saved up all my money for this bike. Thanks for the review. I’m excited
I'm in the proces of working and saving. Have fun with this amazing bike!
Dude. This is a bike for 25 years old and above . Go for the 380 and learn to ride first. Believe me . please .
This was 10 months ago so you've probably crashed it by now ??
@@athiestwales I reckon he was trolling. Full of bull in shit
Hi Matt - thanks so much for posting this video. How refreshing it is to see an honest, sincere review, rather than a BMW sponsored video full of glorious things that are just (way) too hard to believe.
I've owned Ducati's for years and now will purchase a BMG GS 1200 Rallye 2017 this Saturday. I'm as stoked as you were !! I do love my Ducati Enduro, and now I'll experience the GS too.
I live in Mexico so the roads are pretty rough (to say the least). I know the GS can handle it. Many BMW serious riders here I look forward in meeting. I'm off to Baja shortly, then perhaps thru USA to meet with family in Kansas.
Looking forward to the quick shifter.
I'll continue to follow your postings and just wanted to say Thank You for your inspiration. Please keep up the adventure postings as I learn a lot from you !!!
Keep me posted on your soft luggage panniers - looks interesting. I'm only familiar with hard aluminum cases - soft is better?? I noticed your barkbusters too - good idea.
UPDATE: I just purchased my new BMW Rallye 1200 - 2017 model. Bike is incredible - coming from Ducati, I was worried about the lack of power. I'm no longer worried. It has plenty of power. Compared to the Ducati Enduro - this BMW is super smooth and a refined machine. I am very relieved and pleased. The bike is super good looking WOW. Man I get a ton of looks on the road - I'll need to be careful and keep it safe. It has hard panniers which are too big for me (with Roto Pax gas containers on the sides to boot) - so I'll need to look into the GIVI or BMW Atacama soft panniers - especially for off road use. It's a well engineered machine - it even has crash "breakaway" slots on the clutch and brake levers (which will still function if I crash and snap a lever) so I don't need to replace the factory levers for expensive folding ones. The Nav 6 is awesome. Seat is comfortable and I enjoy the one piece for more flexibility. Crash bars to protect the Boxer head a must. I'm not crazy about the quick shift because I enjoy clutching (but it is smooth). It's a well balanced machine and the boxer dynamics thru the curves will take some getting used to. Headlights are OK (with fog lights) but still not as bright as the Ducati Enduro. Cruise control is good. No handlebar switch back lighting unfortunately so I'll need to memorize them quickly. Emergency light switch should be more accessible though (we use these a lot in Mexico). Footbegs feel good.
Thanks again Matt for your video and encouragement.
Thanks for this very honest and useful feedback. I am not surprised that you will lack time to ride the bike on and on. These bikes are made for riding and you can never get enough of it!
Great review, looking at moving up from a G310GS to the 1250. Your video was very helpful.
thanks for the info, picking mine up Thursday
I've had my 2016 1200 gsa for a little over a year now. I absolutely love it. I've had a few other bikes mostly honda cbrs and dirt bikes. I've rode to and then around the Mojave. Its not for everyone I got mine used from the dealership and it was under 1200.00 out the door. I rode off and never looked back. Good job on the video moto brother.
Nice work Matt. That bike looks great with those blue crash bars. Great tip about using Rever to plan routes, I'll have to check that out. Thanks for posting!
Thank Tim. The Rever is app is great. I reallyt like the Challenges for crossing passes and visiting national parks. I have modified routes to grab some of these locations. The Butler map overlay makes it worth it to find some really great routes. Cheers.
Mat you make some excellent points. In late October 2017 I bought a BMW S1000XR it had 340 miles on it (but was never titled) when I got it so it sold as new. I put it away for the winter with just over 11,000 miles on it. BMW makes incredible bikes I rarely get on my XR with out it going at leat 100 miles. Three days ago my wife let me purchase a 2018 R1200 GS Adventure Rally. Just from riding it around the parking lot at the dealer, hopping their curb and a few things I can tell this bike is going to call me away from home a lot. I am lucky though my wife likes to ride about as much as I do either beside me on her KTM or behind me on the XR, as a matter of fact most of the miles it has have been two up. I heard you mention leave, thank you for your service, I am also a vet and am in my 24th year as a cop (not a traffic cop) and I now get five weeks off a year so a lot of riding will be had. I now can't wait till the roads are clear of salt ( I live in Ohio) and I can get this new bike broke in. Take care, have fun and enjoy the ride.
Thank you, it sounds like you are living the good life. Keep riding and keep up the good fight!
All of your comments ring absolutely true. The bike is more than amazing.
He's right, they are killer! I've ridden around the country and am putting in many miles. For a 500 + lb bike, it rides light as my road racing bike. It also does a great job of social distancing.
Yes, if you want to distance yourself from other people it is definitely the bike to go for 😂👏👏👏
Great overview Matt (just subscribed). I have an order in for the 1250 GSA and after watching this I am wondering if I should re-consider! Best, Darren.
i hope i have a bike like that huhu so nice bike ❤️
Thanks man. I'm looking to make the move from sportbikes to one of these and your thoughts and views are much appreciated.
I just got the 2018 rallye! can't wait to hit the roads!!
It is a great bike. I dont think I would ride as much as do I now if I had bought any other bike. Have a great time on your new bike.
I've been a Cruiser rider (Yamaha V-Star 1300 and a new Yamaha Eluder) for the last 6 years with almost 75,000 miles ridden. I have the same feeling about "needing to go ride". Lucky for me, I work a week on, week off so I can always find the time. If you haven't seen his channel check out Shawn Smoak. He actually has to channels, one's a daily vlog, the other is more of a moto-vlog. He's a certified Master Mechanic for BRP and BMW in Vancouver, WA. He just did a moto-vlog on the new R1250GSA HP! Now I want one REAL BAD, but I'm still paying for my 2018 Yamaha Eluder!
Thanks for the suggestion, I have seen Shawn's channel. Impressive mileage, you might feel compelled to ride even more on an R1250GS. That could be good and bad.
@@advmatt - Only I've NEVER done ANY off road riding! I live and work along the Gulf Coast... Not too many off road adventures available. So a GSA might be a waste of money... But I still want one!
That's my dream bike. Although that new 1250HP looks kinda cool. Great video.
Thanks. I love my bike. It has by far exceeded my expectations.
Colt Foley
The model is called a R1250 GSA HP!
Colt Foley hey dumbo the hp is a model of the bike
The gs comes with all the go goodies on it. Why are you being a dick chill out.
Colt Foley R 1250 GS HP or High Performance... who’s the dumbass?
picking my 1250 up next week...great!!! lol i just cashed in some of my PTO!!!! LOL!!!
Nice video! Love the caution at the end about it becoming an obsession. Gonna have 90 days of terminal leave plus TDY this summer… I hope my KLR keeps up! May have to trade it in for a GS somewhere across country!
You have time to knock out some big miles and see some fantastic places on your bike.
I rode back in the mid to late 60s, and it was on a BMW too. An R/51/3. 500cc twin. The pleasure of riding never goes away. I can safely say you're hooked. I still have a love for bikes and honestly, BMW has been on the forefront. I'm 68 years old and have no desire to put it all behind me. Ride Safe and enjoy it. It really sounds like it's getting time for you to make a Coast to Coast ride and check out as many sights as you can. That bike you have now can do it with ease. Enjoy!
Thank you for your comments. I have been riding on and off my entire life but this bike changed me. I having been thinking about a coast to coast, maybe the TAT, but I think I might do a border to border through the Rockies this summer. Ride safe and I will see you out there.
Canada's just as nice as any Country. Be sure you have your passport current when you go, but you will not be dissappointed. The roads are beautiful, the natives are really friendly, food is delicious, and you'll love it!! Even if you dont stop until you go deep into Quebec. English is spoken almost everywhere and even if not, you will be loved no matter what. Summer is the best time to make a trip like that. Exchange your money at the border. Be sure to take enough, but you will find Canadian dollar goes a little further than here. Fuel is sold by the liter there, but on a motorcycle you will still do very well on the price.
Mexico border towns are crap, so be careful down south. I'd carry if I were headed there just to have an extra bit of personal security. Anywhere deeper South of the border and its quite different, but still be careful. God Bless and have fun on your trip!!
I completely agree about wanting to ride a lot more with this bike. A dream to ride. Fortunately I am retired and have the time 8-) albeit tempered by being married 8-)
Best way to keep the spark alive is some time apart, at least that is what I tell my wife. Time to ride.
Sounds like you are hooked on riding as much as I am. I just took early retirement earlier this week so watch out next year. It will be hard to find me home.
You are a lucky guy!
You said it was not a review of the bike. At first I wanted to bust your chops, but yea, MAN you were correct. It is about expectations and surprises! WELL DONE. You even took the effort to fade in the music at the end. GOOD MUSIC. SO so many do that all wrong. I have to Sub and a big T-up.
* * * * RIDE LONG-RIDE FAR-RIDE SAFE * * * *
About the FREE time needed to go riding, yea, thats a tough one. Finally in my mid sixties, I have the time, but not the health or money to take big trips. But getting to ride once in a while, is better than nothing. Gone are the iron butt rides. But that is ok, great memories !
A few tips, if you don't mind. I was at the top 1/10 of 1% ... skillz ...in my prime. ( 1990's) I even swam one hour a day to have the physical stamina. Seems to me you might be doing all this... but just in case...
1. Riding since 1969, I learned the hard way that ATGATT is of most importance. I ride "MOTOPORT". Used up all the others. Nothing even comes close. That said, ARAI helmets, if you value the noggin.
2. You are invisible, never forget that! Light given off is way more effective that light reflected. BEST MONEY spent for safety, other than MOTOPORT, Clearwater Lights... Darlas or Ericas. Both way more gooder...lol
3. If you have not, take all the schools you can!! C.L.A.S.S, all the MSF courses, even race school. Off road schools. After 20 yrs of riding, I found out i pretty much knew nothing compared to what schools can teach.
4. Read TWIST OF THE WRIST! and any other stuff to become an awesome & safe operator.
5. When it comes to riding a M/C or flying a plane, you can not know to much. The learning curve ease's up, but you never stop learning. There are old pilots ( also m/c riders) bold pilots,.... but old bold, not so much.
6. I would be honored to one day meet you on the road.
7. Why didn't you get the GSA? Your bike with all the protection bars is almost the same weight when dry. The extra gas only adds about 14 pounds.
Thanks for advice, good nuggets of wisdom. I have started implementing a few of these since filming this video nearly 2 years ago. I chose the Rallye because it has the same travel as the GSA with a slightly stiffer spring rate. I wanted this for offroad riding. I dont need the extra fuel capacity (most of the time) and wanted to choose my own luggage rack and crash bars. I know I still have lots to learn about riding and the learning will never end. Thanks for tuning in. I am trying to keep it fun and real from an average riders perspective.
@@advmatt Thanks Matt! AND thank you for your Service ! How has the reliability been with the GS? I forgot to mention my Expectations and Surprises. I have owned cruisers, 180 hp super bikes and MANY GS's. YES INDEED, once you get into the ZIN of the mighty GS, nothing even comes close. To do better one would need 3 bikes. Something around the 200~ 300 pound range for off road and a dedicated track bike. That is the only way to extract more from the riding tasks/ fun at hand. In case you did not know, check this out brother!
th-cam.com/video/zYp1zXyc0fA/w-d-xo.html&feature=emb_logo
@@davidfalgout7304thank you. The GS has been extremely reliable. I have seen Jocelyn Snow videos. She is remarkable. Cheers, see you out there.
Great info and I'm the same on mine ☺️
Possibly the best "ALL ROUNDER" BMW has ever made. But I am biased.. However,,, I'm totally enjoying my 2020 R1250R as my other choice when I walk in the garage and choose a bike to ride for the day.
Nice video. It is always the same problem. Not enough time for riding...
That sub-Fender must go, mine is in a plastic box in my garden shack since day one.
It doesn’t show on your video, but the bike is probably on the center stand, lots of weight I don’t need, but sometimes it’s useful... Nice blue crash bars, they match perfectly,.
Thanks, no center stand, bike didn't come with it. Dont really miss having a center stand either. I prefer to be without it too.
Nice video Matt. I’m buying the 2021 GSA on Monday! Going from a 2020 RS that I didn’t find particularly comfortable on a 1300 mile trip I took last year.
This bike will be very comfortable for long road trips. 500 mile days are very easy. Good luck with the new bike.
@@advmatt hope so. Thoughts on the 40th anniversary bumble bee color scheme? I’m trying to decide between that and the rallye red/white/blue
Bumblebee has nostalgia.
Thanks for the feedback. I’ve got one too and feel it’s a bit saggy on the throttle in enduro pro. Didn’t know there were settings!! I will remove that rain mode (or whatever it has) first thing tomorrow!
I have the same bike and I love it!!! I like the upper and lower crash bar matching the color of the frame! Looks awesome! Would you mind telling me where you purchased them from? Thank you for the video!!! 😎👍🏻🏍
I painted them myself. Here is a link to the short video I did for these. th-cam.com/video/fq2UdfR3QdE/w-d-xo.html
The dealers in my area sold all their Rallyes but have a few Rallye GSA - outside of a handful off camping trips i'm mostly in for commuting and joy riding. Is the GSA overkill? - plus the extra $ not sure if its worth it. Otherwise I'll have to order it from out of state from a dealership I found thats selling their demos. Thanks for all the great info
Based on what you are planning to do, you have to evaluate whether you need a fuel tank with two more gallons, want the BMW stock crash bar protection package and also get the BMW stock luggage racks. There are lots of options for crash protection depending on your needs and lots of luggage options. I don't think the cost of aftermarket crash bars and luggage racks will come close to the added cost of the GSA. I also don't think the added fuel range is necessary. There are plenty of options for carrying extra fuel when you go camping if you think you need it. I prefer the narrower profile of the GS over the GSA, but the GSA did not fell terribly wide while riding. Just my thoughts. Good luck finding the bike you want.
Try Furkot to map out your trip and send as GPX to your unit.
Thanks for the suggestion, I will take a look.
Hi Matt
Thanks for the info they are things that I would not have known otherwise (no one seems to mention that kind of stuff). I am interested in the R1250GSA and sat on one in minimum suspension setting with my feet flat on the ground so it felt good. I have not ridden one yet (scared I would buy it!). Can I ask you do you get much heat from the boxer engine heads on your legs when riding (it’s been 30 to 40 degrees C here this summer so any unwanted extra heat would be a pain).
Cheers.
Yes, in those temps you will feel the heat, I only have water proof boots so it can be pretty hot in summer heat. I think in a good vented boot it will be fine, especially at speed.
Look at Wilbers suspension. Worth it.
Thanks for the suggestion, I will take a look. I really want high and low speed compression dampening adjustment.
I love those blue crashbars where did you get them?
I painted stainless steel bars. I did a video on them that explains the paint color I bought from home depot. Look for the custom crash ar video.
I also wish I could a get stiffer springs. Have you found a source for these ?
I havent found spring replacements only complete shocks but you can try contacting the guys at the website beemershop.com, they are suspension specialists. I plan to upgrade the suspension in the future and I will go through these guys.
Hello;) Great video with tons of useful informations!! What saddlebags are you using? Thanks in advance
At that time I had the Nelson Rigg Sierra saddlebags.
@@advmattthanks! 👍
I completely removed the garmon gps bracket & hardware. Problem solved. Only thing on the GS. That sucked I thought. Besides, so many better hand held GPS’s. That you can always mount on bars with a RAM device. That’s NOT SMACK DAB IN YOUR FIELD OF VISION.
I havent used it for navigation in over a year. I use phone app REVER for that. I found the BMW Garmin to have issues with screen jumping that was replaced under warranty. Need to do it again. I do like having the bike data.
@@advmatt Cell phone is great. Up until you don’t have a cell phone signal. Which I found is just about the time I need GPS for off-road.
@@straightpride442 that's the beauty of an app like Rever, you can build your route from your computer, download it to your phone and never need cell service. Just have to remember to download before leaving. I have been using it for years and it was primary navigation to Baja and back, as well the BDRs.
@@advmatt Cool. Thx for heads up. Just downloaded it. But if there’s no cell signal. Even on a downloaded map on REVER. How does the app. Know where you are on the map ?
@@straightpride442 satellite GPS signal from phone.
Nice video. Can you write down the name of the apps for off roading and how to install them? 👍🏻
I use Rever.co on my phone and do the route mapping from the Rever.co website on my computer. I upload the .GPX files from Rever.co to the Garmin using the Garmin software. I pay the annual fee on Rever.co which provides some more features. I am not sure if this completely answers your questions.
You discuss suspension and mention you wish it was sprung a bit heavier. Curious if you have the “Sport” suspension option on your Rallye.
I do have the sport suspension, I think it is a bit under damped offroad with the automatic tuning. The offroad suspension cant be remapped. I would more compression damping and faster rebound.
@@advmatt So i know the sport suspension feature a bit heavier spring rate and also .8" more travel. I wonder if the slow and high speed dampening is also increased on the sport Suspension?
@@superflycatchermtb I wasnt able find any information on compression and rebound settings for each of the different suspension modes. I know for $5k I can get a tuned touratech suspension, but that is a lot.
I know the feeling !!!
Isn't your bike a Rallye? The one in the video you mention going round a mx track is the rallyx it has an extra 20mm of suspension travel as it's out of the GSA bike.
I have the Rallye X version as well, or what ever version was released in the U.S. it has the longer travel and stiffer springs.
The rallye version doesn't have longer travel suspension. It has the possibility to mount the adv suspension - the optional is called "SPORT suspension".
In fact I own a normal version 195mm (vs 215) because I mainly ride on tarmac 😉
Where did you get the blue crash bars from
They are stainless Givi bars that I painted. Rustoluem Gloss Brilliant Blue is a really good match.
Hey Matt what brand of crash bars are those. They real nice
They're Givi crash bars. I custom painted them. Here is a link to video. th-cam.com/video/fq2UdfR3QdE/w-d-xo.html
@ADV Matt excellent. Thanks.
Sports suspension or standard suspension? I have the Sports suspension and it sits higher than standard bikes, apparently it's the Enduro suspension.
If you have the Rallye it has the GSA suspension, which sits taller than a standard GS. If I remember correctly it is 30mm more travel. It is a tall bike.
The "Rallye" has the 'sport' suspension by default. Yes, it's something like 1.5 inches more travel.
Not in the UK it doesn't, BMW off road skills in Wales confirmed this, the sports is an upgrade, stiffer better shocks... Anyways cracking bike....
So I just saw this video for the first time. I have watched most of you 390 Adv videos. I have one too. I live this bike. So you went from a BMW to a 390 ktm? I don't want a big bike either.
I dont miss riding the big bike.
@@advmatt have you thought about upgrading to the 790/890 adventure? I haven't because the engine is much hotter.
@@Froggy-jn9mu I have looked into it to replace the BMW, not the 390. I am waiting to see if a new smaller adventure bikes will be released. I was holding out for the KTM 490 Adventure but it's not coming. Honda might have a middle weight coming so I might weight for that.
As if i wasn't sold already.
Anyone know where can I get crash bars like the ones on the Rallye on the video?
I custom painted Givi crash bars. I made a video talking about the crash bars.
@@advmatt Thanks Mat. They look really great. Please drop me an email at allmansholdings@gmail.com
“Make sure your marriage is strong and kids don’t hate you” - absolutely right. On the other hand though, when your marriage is weak and your kids hate you, you need this bike even more. So you need this bike anyways 😁
Totally agree. It helps to clear your head.
hi, please what crash bars are those?
The crash bars Givi bars
I painted them myself. I did a quick video on them. "Custom Crash Bars".
@@advmatt ah! Lovely! Was going to go after them but painting here is a chore! Will settle for Wunderlich blue 😁 thanks.
whats the manufaktur of the crashbars
Givi makes the crash bars I have installed but I custom painted them. I did a video on the bars two years ago.
Nice crash bars
Thanks.
1200gs kr 1250gs? I think 1200gs Would be good?
I would not trade my R1200GS for a R1250GS. They are both really good bikes.
Wouldn’t trade my 1200gs for the 1250. Plenty of grunt and don’t need all that top end 😎
Do have the sport suspension? That option (installed at factory) It gives 2cm (0.8 inch) higher suspension and a stiffer suspension (comes of the Adventure)
Yes, I do have the sport suspension.
@@advmatt I have the same bike and I am 6'3" and 200 lbs, and think the dynamic ESA adjusts just fine. When you set the ESA to dynamic, you get a stiffer ride. Last option would be to buy new suspensions, e.g. Touratech. You will still keep the ESA function, just get custom suspension to your liking.
@@larsv6144 I agree with you. The dynamic suspension is fantastic in Dyna Pro for road riding. However, in the Enduro/Pro mode the suspension on my bike is limited to the Enduro suspension settings. I asked the dealership if the suspension settings could be changed for Enduro mode and was told it could not be changed. I the struts/shocks only have one compression dampening circuit. I think the slow speed compression response is really good, I would just like to have a second circuit for high speed compression dampening to absorb the bigger hits that eat up the suspension. Touratech may be in my future at some point but it is expensive. Thanks for commenting. I like to see other peoples thoughts.
When you buy anything make sure you do your research correctly, because i bought a 2018 Zx10r and i shit you not the salesman didn't know shit!!! Not saying all but sometime you just in a area where not much options are available and you have to go to that place to buy it
Specially with this new bikes so much technology comes with it they are useful in many ways, but you need to know first
Hey guys, someone please share Adventure Mat's contacts. Picking up my R in two weeks
You can reach me at advmattx2@gmail.com. I am also on Facebook at Adv Matt but I am not good at checking it.
I got an 06 don't need all that shite.
It comes at a price for sure. Older bikes have value beyond measuring.
Yep thnx for the review and yes the Navigator is really bad, considering the price even worse….
Great vid - when I upgrade my 700 it'll be this or an AT. I am looking into the Voyager Pro for a GPS - looks much better for off-road stuff (which is mostly wat I do) - worth a look I think. th-cam.com/video/yTsf2ierA9c/w-d-xo.html
You should drink a coffee before recording. You sound like each word you are saying is the last thing you are ever going to say.