I live in the USA where there are a LOT of highways> I have ridden and considered the GS, the R, other sport tourers but bought the RS. I think it's the best of the bunch, but I always ride pavement. I do long miles and take my time on longer trips. Some factors: lockable hard bags, tires, modern tech suite, relative ease of finding a mechanic, and frankly these engines last forever. For me it is just big and stable enough that I feel comfy on the endless interstates filled with F150's and Semi's and it is nimble and fun in the twisties. Does it make my heart sing when I push the button to turn it on and I can't hear it over my headphones? No. Do the memories of fun miles on a great bike make my heart sing? Yes. Does it inspire confidence no matter the situation? Yes. So all in all I totally agree with you sorta but I love my RS. Also no one else has one.
Considered the RS, but the seating position was odd for me. When compared to the R and GS. Love Boxer engines since riding an R1100 S. Boxer Cup replica. When I see a 1250 RS parked I have a look and find a lot of riders are using bar risers. How do you find the seating position?
Love my old 02 r1150rt. A couple long trips . About 2000klm . Usually 150 -200 klm around the peninsula. 🇨🇦. But also enjoy the k1200rs 03 yr loads of klms 138,000 when I found it . It is very much faster than the oil head
After a midlife of motorcycle road racing and exclusively riding sport bikes on the road, my 67th birthday present to self was trading in a BMW S1000RR for an R1250RS. One of the better decisions in my life. As I got older I began searching for a sport-touring bike but that genre seemed to have disappeared. At 5’7” and 150 pounds, and spending my last decade of racing on an RS125, the thought of a 600 plus pound behemoth was unappealing. The KTM Super Duke was a consideration, but I couldn’t get both feet on tarmac when stopped. I tested an R1200RS and found it agricultural after hopping off the Swiss watch S100RR. The R1250RS is a huge step up from its predecessor. The S1000RR was thrilling 1% of the time on the road, painful on any long ride, and frustrating 100% of the time on the road, being way too fast to enjoy. The R1250RS hits the sweet spot with enough usable power, competent handling and braking, manageable weight, useful technology and 2-up comfort. There was a learning curve to dealing smoothly with the massive engine braking, but my only lingering minimal complaint is that the foot pegs stick out right where my legs want to be when stopped. That’s it. Everything else about the bike is perfect, at least for me in my dotage.
The RS is, to my eye, beautiful. I use mine for commuting, touring, basically all things. It is well made, can be customised, and rewards you with every ride. AND I don't need to look like a dog relieving himself to get on it.
@@paulh6101 my guess is it will be fine. My 1998 R 1100 S was unremarkable at 180 kph for spurts and the 1250 motor has a balance shaft and contra rotating clutch and gearbox, and it is smoother at lower speeds.
@@paulh6101 depends on gear. I also put on weighted bar ends. 90mph in 3rd or 4th has some vibration. I generally run mine at 4500-5500 rpm, so I’ve not used the full capabilities much. I was getting up to 8k rpm today and it does accelerate well
The GS is overkill for 90 percent of people. In reality the RS is what they would use, but people like the GS package and image. ADV tourers are the rage right now. I like the RS for a more sporting feel, and it feels very comfortable for me as well.
I rode this bike for three years, 40,000 km and absolutely loved the power and the luggage space big enough for stuff to get you through a week-long tour. It is nimble, the seat is so comfortable and it's just the right weight. The only issue for me was the ergo - the slightly forward crouching posture and having to raise your head, long rides were often painful. I thought about the handle bar raiser which a lot of people who have this bike seem to get, as that seemed to take care of that issue easily but never got around to getting it.
Now! Here's a bloody good argument. I have been riding a K1300S since 2014. This bike is the undeniably most reliable bike I have ever owned. Recently I have not been doing the kilometres that I have done in the past, not only but probably due to COVID. The bike has done 130,000 km. I live in Australia and the bike has taken me from Townsville to Hobart, not once but several times and it still goes like the clappers.
Mat gave his usual thorough and balanced thoughts on the RS and as a prospective buyer of such a machine, it was well received. What I really like about Mat's presentations are the distinctions between facts, impressions and emotions; his conclusion that the RS left him full of admiration for its abilities while failing to ignite his passion is very clear in its distinction between objective assessment and subjective conclusion, as far as answering the question of 'would I buy this bike with my own money?'. So very much appreciated but the RS is still near the top of my shopping list, along with the keenly-awaited Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello. Thanks from a UK expat looking forward to heading home and getting back on two wheels
Slap an aftermarket exhaust on it and some sportier rubber, and I guarantee you'll change your opinion. All it needs is an owner to unlock a bit more of its sporty nature and its an absolute riot and loads of fun. It certainly deserves more love and attention.
XR is way too vibey to live with (pillion refused to get back on it after only 10 minutes) where the RS feels smoother and more refined. The GS felt a bit mundane and very ‘Germanic’ although an incredibly capable tool. The RS works for its ability to convert a sports bike rider to a way of life where they can travel a great distance in comfort and then have a bit of rock n roll in the passes. All in all at 6ft2 I find it a very good compromise to a mix of riding and I can highly recommend living with one.
I've got a 2021 XR. Hated the first one, the second is a lot better however its time I got back onto something with more torque, character and less 'need' to thrash to have fun.
Hey, so I see that you're 6'2 and own this bike. I'm looking to upgrade later this year to a sports/adv tourer. I'm 6'6 and concerned that this bike may be a little small for what I'm looking for. I currently have a kawasaki z1000, but it's just too small nowadays and sometimes bothers my knees on long rides. Any help would be appreciated. I'm also considering the xr, ktm 1290 super adventure s, and the ktm duke GT.
I never thought of myself as a non-conformist but I’m actually going the opposite way to the tendancy you describe in your feature. I have a 2020 R1250GS which I use for touring (several trips a year, one long one to the Alps every summer) but last november I fell in love with a Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx I bought second-hand with very few kms on the clocks and which I tested on a whim. I must say that I much more enjoy riding the Ninja (except for when the weather is lousy). As much as the shiftcam boxer is a big progress on previous iterations of that engine, I prefer the smoothness of the torquey inline 4 with which the Ninja comes equipped. I can ride at 40km/h in sixth and accelerate without any lugging from the engine or the drivetrain. The gearbox is in another league and the engine is way less noisy. The boxer engine still vibrates a fair deal and generates a lot of mechanical noise. Of course the GS is more comfortable and plush but it’s also heavier and way more difficult to manhandle at standstill. The GS would be my choice for two-up touring (which I don’t do). I don’t know about South Africa where your programme I think is based but over here in Europe it’s very difficult to go off-road. It’s forbidden in most of the countries to even take a fire trail. On the other hand we are blessed with an inmense network of very appealing blacktop roads. So with the off-road out of the equation, the Ninja checks most of the boxes the GS did, it has panniers (which you can remove in two seconds), cruise-control, heated grips, you name it. Of course you have a chain drive and no center stand, nothing is perfect, there are ways around. I find sport-touring motorcycles more engaging and manageable than adventure-style bikes. Thanks for the beautifully edited review shot in my home country. Cheers
BMW loaned me an RS whilst my RT was in for service I was happy to return the RS and be back on the RT. I commute daily with the RT taken all the luggage off fitted akrapovic exhaust. The handling and comfort levels are enough to keep you entertained on even the most mundane of journeys.....
The lost Triumph Sprint RS it's a gone but not forgotten worthy motorcycle. That Yellow sample you showed looked amazing and that 955 engine was a peach.
I am not a fan of "adventure bikes", bikes on stilts or SUV's on two wheels as I call them. Not a big fan of this one but I very much like the naked R1250. Great review by the way.
I recently acquired the slightly older R1200RS after parting with my Honda ST1300 which I owned for 15 years. I loved that bike, obviously, but now in my 60's I found the weight a bit of a challenge in certain situations. I'm not a fan of the 'adventure styled' touring machines but still wanted a comfortable upright riding position with SOME weather protection. The 'real' touring bikes did not offer any relief from the 'weight factor', of which I consider the RT to be one. The GS, and similar, I find too tall and I don't require any off-road capabilities. I hadn't really considered the RS until I saw one in the bike shop and thought "What a nice looking 'traditional styled' bike"'. I'm loving it. Not perfect, but suits my needs at this point of my life. Clunky gearbox, but only between 1st 2nd & 3rd, is definitely a disappointment from a premium manufacturer. Not sure how they haven't got that right with all of their R & D over such a long time with that drive line. I no longer require a bike that caters for 'nights away' so the RS is just fine for me. Just putting my view point forward from someone who has just purchased an RS. I enjoy your reviews. Cheers from Australia.
I had to check for a minute that I hadn't written this... ST1300 to R1200RS due to weight. Didn't like the adventure bike style (too tall). And now onto an R1250RS. It's a little better in many ways but what I really like is that it looks better, and the TFT dash and connectivity are superb.
I agree that the R1250R is as good a tourer as the RS or the GS. You can in fact fit the same luggage to both bikes. I added the BMW touring screen and can happily spend all day riding at motorway speeds. Finally, and most importantly I found the R to be more comfortable than the RS, which feels to have an odd riding position.
The RS is my favorite of all the BMWs, I've owned. There are minor issues with rider geometry, TFT being too complicated, Bluetooth, choice of helmet etc but I have no real complaints. I tend to ignore all the bells and whistles anyway-- my 2021 R1250RS is a great motorcycle.
@@windyrun7979 ah yes..for my body size and arm length, I've had to experiment with risers, seating position, helmets, mirrors, and screen position and I still don't have a sense of optimality that I had with the R1150R. Even so, it's the best motorcycle I've owned so the complaints are minor.
I just want to put forward since NONE of the BMW reviews compared to other bikes mention it, most reviews say the BMW bikes cost considerable more than most other touring bikes, however NO reviews ever mention that most touring bikes are made to run for 100 000 miles (160 000 km) while the BMWs are built to go for 200 000 miles (320 000 km)! So what you pay is actually paying for two of the other bikes. Thought I mention this since nobody ever does.
100% agree, I won´t ever understand why someone would buy a 1250GS over a 1250RS for 100% road usage, the RS looks way better and is lighter, handles better.....BTW, where are those roads? they look like Italy or Spain
Great review keep up with the great content and style. I love my RS so much I have just gone and replaced it for another one after a year notching up 8500 miles. This bike is just about perfect for me, I am 59 years old and only been riding for 2.5 years. I previously owned a Triumph Tiger 800 (Low). The balance and handling coupled with a standard seat height of 790mm makes this bike for me a confidence inspiring machine to ride.
Loved my years of ST riding, and in that time this was one bike I really wanted. Yet over time my knees and carpal tunnel wrist issues pushed me back to a floorboard cruiser.
As a former long-term Beemer aficionado, the main reason I left the brand had much more to do with the cost of ownership than the purchase price and/or quality of the product. There always seemed to be a haughty hubris at the service & parts counter, and I know I’m not the only person who felt the burn. All that said, the RS certainly has its appeal. But, so do other addictive drugs . . .
That is exactly why the other two obvious Japanese choices are so compelling. Why spend the time and money on keeping it on the road when you can, well, be on the road all the time!
Thank you for saying, I've been a rider for close to 40yrs. And that's one of the main reasons why I won't go near BMW. Cost of ownership way too high.
I have a 2020 Exclusive R1250RS. I like it very much over the R1250GS and S1000XR. It’s a fantastic sports tourer. Mine also has the option 719 classic billet pack, classic forged alloy wheels, panniers painted in matching colour, Akrapovic muffler and a 760mm low seat. I also set the adjustable foot peg to the lowest position. I am 5’7” with a 29” inseam. Only thing I don’t like it’s the recommended cruising speed is limited to 180kph with the panniers attached. 😬
I subscribed to your channel right after hearing you say, "... if you're so inclined to ruin a good ride." You were discussing the connectivity. Very cool. I'll check all that after I'm done riding, thank you!
I've tried the RS both 1200 and 1250 on a number of occasions but always returned to the equivelent GS as the comfort, riding position and all round visibility are better. In the UK the TE version of the GS also means you're not adding "packs" to the configuration so the trade in value is always higher. Apart from being a bugger to clean the only downside to the GS is it's so common, but that's for a reason 😉 Well, 12 months on I have an RS😂 why the change of heart? There were several reasons for leaving the GS fold after 8 years 1 I fancied a change 2 I no longer carry a pillion so passenger comfort isn't a consideration 3 In the 8 years of GS ownership I've never ridden off road 4 As I get older and being on the small side the GS was becoming just a bit of a handful to move about and control at low speed 5 Cost, the price of a GS has risen considerably in the last few years with the gap between it and the RS (and R) getting bigger and bigger with similar spec'd GS' being £4000 more than an equivelent RS now. 6 it's nowhere near as common as a GS, sometimes it's nice to be different. 7 At last a decent colour option for the RS SE (BMW Motorrad sport colours) Add the option to have the tubular sports handlebars from the R makes it a nice package
The roadster has always been my favorite boxer engined BMW and I agree with you that with a windscreen it makes a more fun sport tourer than the RS. When I test rode the R1250R I was surprised to like it so much. In fact, as a Aprilia Tuono V4 and Triumph Street Triple owner, I was expecting preferring the 2021 S1000R over the R1250R but found the S1000R souless and would buy the R1250R more easily. Nonetheless there is a new arrival in the ST segment that is exciting me more than the R1250R and that is the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello
Having been tempted by the RS for many years, I agree now that it's for people who really want a GS but can't bring themselves to go along with the crowd. Personally I've got over the GS stigma thing, I don't care anymore, but being a 5'8 short arse it'll always be off my list. I go too many places with off cambers and potholes unfortunately.
I love my KTM Superduke GT and also sport tourers in general. They are capable to drive fast and also far with at least a bit of wind protection. Also Kawasaki H2 SX with the 200 hp comressor engine needs to be mentioned!
Just had my 12k service on my 1250RS, they gave me a 1250R loan bike for the day. That's my next bike. I love the torque and shaff drive, but the way they've kicked out the front wheel from the bottom of the forks, I now know has ruined the handling on the RS. The 1250R with the front wheel in line with the forks is just so much more fun... Handling is so much quicker... The only other thing is don't get one from new with those Metzlers fitted! They wear so unevenly it's a joke... fitted the Mitch Road 5 initially, now on the Road 6 and these really help the comfort and handling from the Devil's Metzlers... Basically a great bike, but spoilt by the front wheel position....
cool testing as always, I love the R1250R, it gives me all and for longer tour I put on the marathon screen provided by the German "Wunderlich" and there she goes. 5000km tour just enjoyable. 😉
In my humble opinion, among all the motorbikes of the R1250 bunch, RS is the perfect choice if you don’t go by the dirt. Tested the naked one, I discarded it in 2 minutes for its lack of weather protection. I like RT veeeery much but it is too massive in my opinion and GS I simply don’t like (apart than pavement is where I like to ride). RS is very enjoyable in the twisties, you can feel it, smooth as well as full of power and personality, nimble also in the city, perfect for commuting, has enough wind protection and is very comfortable unless you are extraordinary tall (I am 179 cm)…. Now it is more than 35 years I own/ride on 7 different big motorbikes including Kawasaki ZZR600 ❤️ in the 90’s and BMW F800S the last years before I bough my R1250RS one year ago…, and it really has it all…, I would definitely buy it 1000 times again. ✌🏼✌🏼
5:08 : You can ride one of these down a dirt road just fine. Lots of people do it all the time. Perhaps not in the sense of "cross a desert on unmarked sand roads" or "1000km on an unserviced logging road through Siberia", but you can certainly do "Oh there's a nice unpaved road through here to the next village".
Great review, intelligent and objective, I’m getting an RS ‘cos I’m old (63) and short, GS is just to big and top heavy, can get my feet down flat on the RS.
@@alanpennykid133are you happy with it? Im 1.63m so am very inclined to the RS and maybe grind the standard seat a little bit so i can feel more confortable. Did you use raisers or lowered seat?
Loved my R1200RS but having come from a K1600GT my pillion let me know nearly every ride how much more comfortable that bike was. Ended up with the R1200RT as a compromise and my ears and neck now thank me.
@@Jpizzle925 Both great bikes but if you take a pillion regularly I'd go with the RT (unless they have never experienced the comfort of a bike like the RT), then you might get away with the sportier RS.
Interesting vid. Personally, when I'm traveling on the road with a sport tourer, not once have I thought my ride would be better if I had a little more hp or torque, or if only my suspension was a little harder or softer, or if only I had more electronics. But what I did realize is that my ride is only better if I had the right "fit" on the bike. I realized that the right fit determines all the difference, when the bikes are set up back to oem standard. Tall riders over 6 ft should find european tourers as a better fit, while riders under 6 ft will fine jpn tourers a better fit. And for heavy riders, harley will fit them better. With the right fit, the body will be more relax, thereby making any sport touring ride ideal and less fatigued. Anyway, ride safe, god bless u.
I have the earlier R1200RS and I came to it from a life long diet of angry sportsbikes and nakeds. It's a slow burn, the longer you have the bike and the further you go the better you live it. So easy, so capable. Tour, commute or scratch It's very close to flawless. An RT would make me feel like life was over. A GS says long way round wannabe, yes we see you standing on the pegs ... in Waitrose car park. The plain old R has less wind protection. In summary the RS is the correct choice.
I had many hrs on a demo RS, and I disliked it. The ergos are too far forward and the front is raked out from the R, so that it steers slowly. As a former GS and RT owner, I completely agree with your conclusions - the GS is simply the best BMW all rounder...and if you want to tour, the RT is hard to beat. And, of course, The Katoom 1290 SAS is a far better bike than the GS, IMHO... 🙂
Nice bike, tested few months ago.. but I'll stick with my K1300s. Shame BMW doesn't do a new version of it, but they probably think the RS cover that segment of sport/touring. In my opinion, the RS is more touring than sporty, and for long distance I prefer the in-line 4 rather than a twin boxer.
I have the RS’s naked brother, the R1250R, a 2020, and it’s the best bike I’ve ever owned (and my first BMW). I did testride the RS a couple times before opting for the R, since the RS is what lured me into the dealership, but its ergonomics and heavier cornering with the longer rake just wasn’t for me.
Also have a R1250R and there's no deying it's just a fantastic, all-around bike. I still kinda miss the 'cool' of a retro but this BMW does everyting so well
Perhaps it's been mentioned here (not bothered to go through all the reviews) but I've installed the Wunderlich handle bar conversion. In addition I also have the slightly higher Wunderlich sadle. This makes the RS for me the perfect bike. It combines all the advantages of the RS, that great boxer engine, conventional front suspension and just enough wind protection, with a bit more upright sitting position. It's all personal but this bike is a keeper for me after riding Multistrada for a fair bit of time.
My 16 RT was the best bike I ever had. I have a 21 S1000XR and a 18 k1600b. Both awesome... But I miss the R engine actually... The weight and power and especially the lower rpm torque is awesome.
I had a 2021 RS in gold. It did everything it was made for perfectly. Only downside, and my gripe with all BMWs, was that they are so incredibly bland. I felt that way about the s1000rr I had for two years prior. I ended up trading this bike for a 22 Harley low rider s. The Harley is worse at everything except for the fun department for me. Plus I like to customize.
The effort is my wife's, not mine. And I've herad this but I've owned and even raced BMWs and never had a problem. Not that I'm doubting you or others, but I do feel that some sweeping statements tend to become memes, often without any genuine justification.
@@IgnitionBikeShow Unfortunately I'm basing my views on personal experiences. Having owned a K16GT, the switch gear failed, two coils (and yep, this baby has 6 of them), a coolant leak and TPS all within 9 months. When seeking reassurance from fellow BMW owners all they kept saying was, "make sure you get an extended warranty, you'll need it". Its a shame from a premium brand like bmw, to fall down on reliability like that. Anyway, keep up the great content, your wife is a very talented editor! Cheers.
The RS was the first of the 4-valve per head oil/air-cooled BMWs in the R1100RS guise in 1993. Often overlooked, even then. Maybe the reason was the introduction of the R1100GS a year later. Good review.
I rode an R1100RS when it was released but it didnt suit my needs. Had an R1100GS for 6 months(we didnt get along) and an R1100R for quite a few years, to me it was the best all rounder. Ive recently bought a very low mileage R1250RS and loving it. I'm not tall and the RS is far more suited to my riding these days than the GS, besides I have a K100 sidecar for the rough road stuff when needed. My wife is likely to get a 1250R so I'll get to try that every now and then too. Only had K-RSs before, this is the first R series RS in the stable.
Tried the RS, but it quickly reminded me that BMW builds their big bikes for big people. A nice ride, but too stretched-out for me. Chose a low-mileage Norge, which fits my shorter reach. Hopefully MG will have a replacement for it someday.
I fully share your analysis. Sensible bike, it can be a passion for some as the flat is great, it's sporty but not too demanding on the wrists. I considered the RS 1250 over the GS when I bought my last bike. I liked the look and wanted to keep the flat that had grown on me with my R9T. I had previously tried a GS 1250 when the RS was not yet available, no wonder once you buy one of these you hardly want to drive anything else, ever. It's not only for the image, it just does it all perfectly. Maybe too perfectly and I was not ready to buy a bike I would only replace by its successor ;). I also tested the Superduke GT to compare with the RS, less plush but so much fun and craziness. Then on the suggestion of the dealer I tried a second hand Super Adventure S: at 1,80m, lot of added comfort for very little compromise on beastiness... It was a heart beat choice. When I'm alone I enjoy being "reasonably stupid" (if that makes sense), and when we are two my wife likes it more then the RS we also tested 2 aboard. The RS is a good bike, it makes sense on its own. But when you're putting that kind of money, the competition is at such a level it wasn't good enough for my sporty kind. But you know what's great? As motorcyclists we have all this choices to find what suits us best!
Own an early 80's BMW R100RS.... still looking for the the 21st century iteratation, with the boxer power delivery, while in a protective cocoon from the cold and wind blast, with the gorgeous RS fairing style... haven't found it yet. ;)
Excellent review, and a great overview of where it fits the market, in other words "How did we get to here!" - The common theme in the comments blow seems Cost of Ownership and not the purchase price - Anyway I'm still going to buy one, but a 2 to 3 year old model, and I WILL enjoy every mile on it! Thank you for the food for thought here!
THe explanation is valid. Although the naked r1200 comments are personal because you always favor naked bikes, maybe the handlebar height of the naked bike does it for you better? Your right in that the adv bikes have taken over. I just purchasded the predisessor to the 1250RS bike, the old R1200ST with its stacked headlights. A fairly lightly used sample with full Ohlins suspension for $5000 us dollars. A bargain for sure. It will do all the same stuff the R1250RS does but with ought all the electronic wizbang features. With a raised handlebar the bike is supremely comfy now. All three bags plus tank bag. For me its the perfect backup sport/touring bike,of course, to my Multistrada ADV sport touring bike! Ironic isn’t it?
Almost bought this but ended up with a GS which is a surprisingly capable all rounder. It has been to a track day at Las Vegas Motor Speedway & stuck to the frame in deep River sand on a 2 track in Joshua Tree Park. Next time I’ll buy an RS & a KTM EXC.
Sport touring bikes are great if you’re 25. If you’re not, get thee to a lowered GSA. The wheel size of the GSA does not limit your tire selections, in my experience. It increases them.
I have a 2020 RS with almost 6000 miles on it so far (and so far, no reliability problems at all). A few points. Yeah, the quick shifter isn't always the greatest, but you overstate how bad it is. I use mine regularly in lower gears and at lower RPM. The trick is when upshifting, you have to be on the throttle at least a little bit and you have to be purposeful with the lever. Also, while I've seen other boxer BMWs with the Hayes calipers, I've never seen one RS with them. Also, assuming they don't have any leaking, the Hayes calipers are reported to function as well as the Brembos. Admittedly, I'd rather have Brembos. I do think BMW should have made either bar risers or the tubular bars from the R as a factory option. I put risers on mine and it improved the long distance ergos a lot. Finally, another thing to factor in is price. A GS or RT, in the US at least, is likely another $4000 similarly equipped vs the R or RS. The R and RS also weigh quite a bit less.
Great review, and I have to agree with you Matt. I think putting conventional forks on the RS doesn’t help it, but I personally own a 1250GS and if I was going to change it for another BMW I would be looking at the RT and K1600GT. The problem for the RS is the GS and RT are just too good, after all why have the RS when both of the other two handle just as nicely and have greater luggage capacity and a telelever front end that allows you to ride like a hooligan?
I would prefer the RS over the GS. The 17" wheels, taller gearing, panniers make it the better road bike in my opinion. Plus, now you va order an RS with a tubular handlebar from the R model, which will give it the quicker handling like the R model.
Now here's a little tip about the RS. Try changing the seat. I found the standard Sargent seat a speedy little surprise, in that the big twin was considerably more nimble around town and on the twisties. However that was not enough, so I bought the tall Sargent seat, which brought the height and styling I was after... now I am a happy camper.
I look at all these different options and after some time on a 1250gs can only confirm I made the perfect decision buying an s1000xr, the do it all superbly bike 😁
I’m 75. I’ve ridden since I was a boy. Bikes are too big now. They’re massive. It’s crazy to drive a bike you can’t lift up. That are so fat that your legs feel like a chicken wishbone being wrestled over by two siblings at Thanksgiving.
I have an R1250R, with a small BMW fly-screen, and absolutely love it. But yes, changing up in the lower gears is a clunky affair that I still haven’t managed to ride around.
Try “pre-charging”. I put some pressure on the shift lever shortly before I engage the clutch, so as to have some sort of tension, then pull the clutch and you’ll see that the gear will engage more softly
It's a dog shifted gearbox with a tonne of torque running through it. Every shift must be completed quickly and the force on the shift lever must be high and followed through completely. Lazy and sloppy shifts will feel "clucky".
A great summary of the R1250RS and the market as a whole -- Well done. Despite owning an R1250GSA, I think the RS is the prettiest bike in the range (maybe my R100RS still swings me that way) and I would love to have one parked in my shed! I very strongly disagree with one point, however: The comment made at 4:55 regarding the inability of the bike to "travel on anything dirtier than a dusty hairpin" is, I must say, pure nonsense! My wife and her R1250R (which is, in effect, an RS without the fairing) regularly traverse gravel roads -- and not many of them are super smooth dirt highways. The R, and by extension the RS, is extremely capable on theses roads. The single biggest limiting factor is actually the tyres, as sporty road tyres these days have such a thin carcass that they are prone to punctures and cuts from sharp rocks and stones. A set of Continental TKC70s or similar fixes this, however, whilst still allowing excellent sporting performance. The assumption made in the video is akin to the current madness that dictates even a gravel driveway these days requires a 4WD or SUV.......
Yeah...and no - as you state about the tyres. And the gravel roads I've experienced tend to have sudden dips and potholes that bottom-out suspension and cause any number of problems as a result. Not impossible as you and many a superbike rider have proven in the past, but there are better ways to skin that off-road cat!
@@IgnitionBikeShow 🤣😂🤣. My wonderful, vertically challenged wife and riding partner would laugh at being rated a superbike rider!! She will tackle dirt roads as a means to end and occasionally will admit to have liked a particular gravel road. Roads, including gravel, don't always have to be attacked at full tilt. Taking road conditions and bike limitations into account still means that the R (and RS) is more than capable of tackling lengthy gravel road sections without threat to rims or pride. With a country that abounds in nearly as many gravel roads as sealed (Australia), sometimes we just have to use what we have! Keep the reviews coming!
I was considering the RS, but eventually choose the S1000XR. It's more alive, more exciting and maybe no that much torque, but man he screams at 8k and the generated power is very addictive. Also the butter smooth response of the 4 inline made me decide to go for the XR
screams sreams s1000 xr accelerate much better than rs 1250 thanks lower weight slightly chain instead off shaft + more power 100-200 in 6 sec vs 8 sec 🤭 however rs 1250 have better lowend up to like 6-7 k rpm from idlle os + maintenance less shaft 👍🏻 personally would choice rs 1250 👍🏻 yea egzacly the same they concluded what im say here 👉🏻 m.th-cam.com/video/avaXFuwNWlk/w-d-xo.html so s xr is much weaker at low to modrange rpm 😁👌🏻in race s xr beat rrs thanks lower wieght and more top end power + lil less drove train losess but daily all day long r rs 😉👌🏻👍🏻 rs 👉🏻 m.th-cam.com/video/fsorsX_Gkp8/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUbYm13IHIgMTI1MCBycyBhY2NlbGVyYXRpb24g vs xr 👉🏻 m.th-cam.com/video/-qvWCqGAYUk/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUbYm13IHMgMTAwMCB4ciBhY2NlbGVyYXRpb24g .
G'day Mat. Love the video as usual brother, but how come you forgot to mention the Yamaha fjr 1300? Electronic suspension, cruise control, electric screen, very comfortable and bloody sporty when you want it to be. The perfect sport tourer in my opinion. Cheers mate.
As the miles keep ticking up on my r1100s and I dream of my next steed, I am hugely enamored with this bike - and with good reason, it's the modern iteration of my current ride [funny how many people in the comments own/ed these bikes, though I guess it's predictable too]. I find the GS amazing but... not as roadbike planted/aggro as I like, particualry in terms of how it corners [not whether, again, but how]. I still own and have ridden Ducati Monsters for over 20 years... good fun as I'm sure the R bikes can be, but again... not as plush, not as well packaged for the real ST stuff. I'm really hoping that someone has or is buying the perfectly outfitted blue r1250rs I so desire and is riding it only enough to keep it fresh and properly depreciate for me to steal it of them in 3-5 years when I NEED it. :) Great piece, great review, thanks!
I so nearly bought a R1250RS, but went with another GS. It was great fun, and maybe now after two GS’s I might revisit the RS itch!! And I’ve never had any plans to take a GS off road so why not go with an RS route? Or perhaps a K1600……..
If you want to go far, fast get a sport tourer. The RS would be my pick if it was 100 lbs. lighter. My R1200 S put out 124HP, had heated grips, fully adjustable Ohlins, weighed 70lbs less than the RS and it was relatively affordable. It was a true sport touring bike and that was 15 years ago. I wish BMW would try again.
I testdrove it when it was still the 1200 rs right after riding my dream bike the ninja 1000sx which was good but felt heavy at low speed the rs was on another level to be honest i havent tried the latest models of both but im thinking my conclusion will be thesame only thing with the rs was i kept hitting my shins against the cylinders but thats something you need to get used to i guess.
Interesting video. This is the second time that I watched it and like you said it might seem disjointed. I was surprised again I guess I forgot. But, on one hand it seems like you were for it but as the video continued it seemed like you were not for the RS. I think that is the issue with the bike people either like it or not but is is an exceptional bike from fit and finish to components etc. I just purchased a 2023 RS and I think it is one of the best bikes out pound for pound and it is an all arounder. It can be ridden around town where frequent stops happen or on the HWY.
I really like the look of the RS and would at the least like to see and sit on one in person, but have not seen one at any dealer on the east coast. Do you have to order them???
They need to make a fully faired version of the S1000R similar to what the GSX-S1000F was. Would be the perfect bike for me. I dont want a Supersport track bike, or a sports touring or adventure bike. I want somethjng smaller and lighter but not a naked.
Brilliant review. This level of insight is what makes a channel like yours worth following and subscribing, thank you! 🙏🏽 Shame you forgot the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce in your round up. You tested it when first launched in 2015/2016 and it’s been developed since into a unique and very focussed sports tourer that is woefully overlooked. It superbly refined and practical and the quickshifter is one of the best going. There’s also a Rekluse type clutch less system developed specifically for this bike that makes it unique in the sports touring world. The panniers take a full face helmet each but are no wider than the bars thanks to the clever subframe design. Worth a new review I reckon but maybe wait until you can do a group test with the bike that may yet save the sports tourer sector from oblivion: the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello! 😆
I wanted to try the RS, but it didn’t fit me. I can ride the RT (my current bike) and the GS, but the RS and R have a slightly different setup/riding position that means I cannot get my feet down properly and the width of the bars puts my shoulders and neck into a very uncomfortable position. Mos people wouldn’t notice, but I think these minor position changes can make a big effect on how the bike feels on the road.
Gving away 20kgs and 40bhp to the orange one doesn't impress me, nor does the shaft. And BMW's shaft drive has some serious reliability problems. I'd prefer a sporting bike with touring pretensions over a touring bike with sporting pretensions any day of the week. After all, I may have the opportunity to tour once or, if I'm lucky twice a year, and I'd be compromising all my other riding just so that I could tour in "Ultimate comfort". OTOH, I've never had problems with 1000 mile days, even when I "Toured" on an EXUP. I may no longer be up to doing quite that, as age no longer creeps up on me, rather I can hear its hoofbeats galloping alongside, but even that speaks in favour of something like the SD1290GT because, with the loss of mobility, I have found it increasingly difficult to swing a leg over one of those monstrous ADV bikes.
The only difference between the R and the RS is the fairings / screen and handle bars. So if you want comfortable touring on your list of options the RS is the best choice.
Yeah, I know, which is why I said there's no reason for the difference in feeling other than what I presume must be the riding position and the effect that has on weight distribution; but even that is subject to rider size and style. Difficult to explain, but I really, really felt more connected to the 'R' than I did with the RS. But, as you rightly point out, and I referred to in the test, the ingredients are so similar that there's no obvious reason why that feeling might exist.
I live in the USA where there are a LOT of highways> I have ridden and considered the GS, the R, other sport tourers but bought the RS. I think it's the best of the bunch, but I always ride pavement. I do long miles and take my time on longer trips. Some factors: lockable hard bags, tires, modern tech suite, relative ease of finding a mechanic, and frankly these engines last forever. For me it is just big and stable enough that I feel comfy on the endless interstates filled with F150's and Semi's and it is nimble and fun in the twisties. Does it make my heart sing when I push the button to turn it on and I can't hear it over my headphones? No. Do the memories of fun miles on a great bike make my heart sing? Yes. Does it inspire confidence no matter the situation? Yes. So all in all I totally agree with you sorta but I love my RS. Also no one else has one.
Considered the RS, but the seating position was odd for me. When compared to the R and GS.
Love Boxer engines since riding an R1100 S. Boxer Cup replica.
When I see a 1250 RS parked I have a look and find a lot of riders are using bar risers.
How do you find the seating position?
@@yomstergilla7683 I find it a little hard on the wrist around town and about perfect once you get going, and it's great for extended sporty riding.
@@yomstergilla7683 I also had an R1100s which is why I bought the RS.
@@bloodworthG yep can't go wrong with the Bavarian Boxer👍
Love my old 02 r1150rt. A couple long trips . About 2000klm . Usually 150 -200 klm around the peninsula. 🇨🇦. But also enjoy the k1200rs 03 yr loads of klms 138,000 when I found it . It is very much faster than the oil head
After a midlife of motorcycle road racing and exclusively riding sport bikes on the road, my 67th birthday present to self was trading in a BMW S1000RR for an R1250RS. One of the better decisions in my life. As I got older I began searching for a sport-touring bike but that genre seemed to have disappeared. At 5’7” and 150 pounds, and spending my last decade of racing on an RS125, the thought of a 600 plus pound behemoth was unappealing. The KTM Super Duke was a consideration, but I couldn’t get both feet on tarmac when stopped. I tested an R1200RS and found it agricultural after hopping off the Swiss watch S100RR. The R1250RS is a huge step up from its predecessor. The S1000RR was thrilling 1% of the time on the road, painful on any long ride, and frustrating 100% of the time on the road, being way too fast to enjoy. The R1250RS hits the sweet spot with enough usable power, competent handling and braking, manageable weight, useful technology and 2-up comfort. There was a learning curve to dealing smoothly with the massive engine braking, but my only lingering minimal complaint is that the foot pegs stick out right where my legs want to be when stopped. That’s it. Everything else about the bike is perfect, at least for me in my dotage.
The RS is, to my eye, beautiful. I use mine for commuting, touring, basically all things. It is well made, can be customised, and rewards you with every ride. AND I don't need to look like a dog relieving himself to get on it.
How is the vibration cruising at 90+?
@@paulh6101
Kph or mph?
Kph no issue.
Mph will get the bike impounded with loss of licence.
Sad but true down here in Victoria, Australia
@@marklapirow5473 145kph
@@paulh6101 my guess is it will be fine. My 1998 R 1100 S was unremarkable at 180 kph for spurts and the 1250 motor has a balance shaft and contra rotating clutch and gearbox, and it is smoother at lower speeds.
@@paulh6101 depends on gear. I also put on weighted bar ends. 90mph in 3rd or 4th has some vibration. I generally run mine at 4500-5500 rpm, so I’ve not used the full capabilities much. I was getting up to 8k rpm today and it does accelerate well
The GS is overkill for 90 percent of people. In reality the RS is what they would use, but people like the GS package and image. ADV tourers are the rage right now. I like the RS for a more sporting feel, and it feels very comfortable for me as well.
Or alternatively, they are 6ft 3in, 15 stone and look like a performing elephant on an RS.
@@thewoodster8607 I am 6'5 265 pounds on an RS mate. Fits me fine.
It’s also about riding position. I can ride for 19 hours at a time. Not on an RS where my shoulders and hips hurt.
@@robertlee8042 I had a GS, sitting upright KILLED my back... I tried everything. The slight lean forward on my RS is good.
I'm 6'3 and I much prefer sitting IN a ST like this one than perched high on a top heavy thing like the GS.
I rode this bike for three years, 40,000 km and absolutely loved the power and the luggage space big enough for stuff to get you through a week-long tour. It is nimble, the seat is so comfortable and it's just the right weight. The only issue for me was the ergo - the slightly forward crouching posture and having to raise your head, long rides were often painful. I thought about the handle bar raiser which a lot of people who have this bike seem to get, as that seemed to take care of that issue easily but never got around to getting it.
@jackkim, I have an 2023 RS and it came with the tubular bars which are more upright, comfortable and allows for sporting riding. Check them out.
Now! Here's a bloody good argument. I have been riding a K1300S since 2014. This bike is the undeniably most reliable bike I have ever owned. Recently I have not been doing the kilometres that I have done in the past, not only but probably due to COVID. The bike has done 130,000 km. I live in Australia and the bike has taken me from Townsville to Hobart, not once but several times and it still goes like the clappers.
Mat gave his usual thorough and balanced thoughts on the RS and as a prospective buyer of such a machine, it was well received. What I really like about Mat's presentations are the distinctions between facts, impressions and emotions; his conclusion that the RS left him full of admiration for its abilities while failing to ignite his passion is very clear in its distinction between objective assessment and subjective conclusion, as far as answering the question of 'would I buy this bike with my own money?'. So very much appreciated but the RS is still near the top of my shopping list, along with the keenly-awaited Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello. Thanks from a UK expat looking forward to heading home and getting back on two wheels
I'm really surprised this isn't a more well known and popular bike. It makes sense to a lot of people and looks great.
Slap an aftermarket exhaust on it and some sportier rubber, and I guarantee you'll change your opinion. All it needs is an owner to unlock a bit more of its sporty nature and its an absolute riot and loads of fun. It certainly deserves more love and attention.
Yes, got mine mapped to punch 164
Agreed!
XR is way too vibey to live with (pillion refused to get back on it after only 10 minutes) where the RS feels smoother and more refined. The GS felt a bit mundane and very ‘Germanic’ although an incredibly capable tool. The RS works for its ability to convert a sports bike rider to a way of life where they can travel a great distance in comfort and then have a bit of rock n roll in the passes. All in all at 6ft2 I find it a very good compromise to a mix of riding and I can highly recommend living with one.
Never thought anyone could ruin an inline 4 until I came across the XR..smh..
I've got a 2021 XR. Hated the first one, the second is a lot better however its time I got back onto something with more torque, character and less 'need' to thrash to have fun.
@@Chazaxl Try a ZZR1400....
@@BibtheBoulder Thanks, too sporty / aggressive for my liking.
Hey, so I see that you're 6'2 and own this bike. I'm looking to upgrade later this year to a sports/adv tourer. I'm 6'6 and concerned that this bike may be a little small for what I'm looking for. I currently have a kawasaki z1000, but it's just too small nowadays and sometimes bothers my knees on long rides. Any help would be appreciated. I'm also considering the xr, ktm 1290 super adventure s, and the ktm duke GT.
I never thought of myself as a non-conformist but I’m actually going the opposite way to the tendancy you describe in your feature.
I have a 2020 R1250GS which I use for touring (several trips a year, one long one to the Alps every summer) but last november I fell in love with a Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx I bought second-hand with very few kms on the clocks and which I tested on a whim. I must say that I much more enjoy riding the Ninja (except for when the weather is lousy). As much as the shiftcam boxer is a big progress on previous iterations of that engine, I prefer the smoothness of the torquey inline 4 with which the Ninja comes equipped. I can ride at 40km/h in sixth and accelerate without any lugging from the engine or the drivetrain. The gearbox is in another league and the engine is way less noisy. The boxer engine still vibrates a fair deal and generates a lot of mechanical noise. Of course the GS is more comfortable and plush but it’s also heavier and way more difficult to manhandle at standstill. The GS would be my choice for two-up touring (which I don’t do). I don’t know about South Africa where your programme I think is based but over here in Europe it’s very difficult to go off-road. It’s forbidden in most of the countries to even take a fire trail. On the other hand we are blessed with an inmense network of very appealing blacktop roads. So with the off-road out of the equation, the Ninja checks most of the boxes the GS did, it has panniers (which you can remove in two seconds), cruise-control, heated grips, you name it.
Of course you have a chain drive and no center stand, nothing is perfect, there are ways around. I find sport-touring motorcycles more engaging and manageable than adventure-style bikes. Thanks for the beautifully edited review shot in my home country.
Cheers
BMW loaned me an RS whilst my RT was in for service I was happy to return the RS and be back on the RT. I commute daily with the RT taken all the luggage off fitted akrapovic exhaust. The handling and comfort levels are enough to keep you entertained on even the most mundane of journeys.....
Fair enough, our choices are legion these days, and if you're happy that's all that matters.
Just so we’ll done and spot on. I had a loaner RS for some time last year. I pick one up tomorrow. It’s that good. 🙏
The lost Triumph Sprint RS it's a gone but not forgotten worthy motorcycle.
That Yellow sample you showed looked amazing and that 955 engine was a peach.
This is such an underrated bike in their lineup.
I am not a fan of "adventure bikes", bikes on stilts or SUV's on two wheels as I call them. Not a big fan of this one but I very much like the naked R1250. Great review by the way.
I recently acquired the slightly older R1200RS after parting with my Honda ST1300 which I owned for 15 years. I loved that bike, obviously, but now in my 60's I found the weight a bit of a challenge in certain situations. I'm not a fan of the 'adventure styled' touring machines but still wanted a comfortable upright riding position with SOME weather protection. The 'real' touring bikes did not offer any relief from the 'weight factor', of which I consider the RT to be one. The GS, and similar, I find too tall and I don't require any off-road capabilities. I hadn't really considered the RS until I saw one in the bike shop and thought "What a nice looking 'traditional styled' bike"'. I'm loving it. Not perfect, but suits my needs at this point of my life. Clunky gearbox, but only between 1st 2nd & 3rd, is definitely a disappointment from a premium manufacturer. Not sure how they haven't got that right with all of their R & D over such a long time with that drive line. I no longer require a bike that caters for 'nights away' so the RS is just fine for me. Just putting my view point forward from someone who has just purchased an RS. I enjoy your reviews. Cheers from Australia.
Me too 👌👌
I had to check for a minute that I hadn't written this... ST1300 to R1200RS due to weight. Didn't like the adventure bike style (too tall). And now onto an R1250RS.
It's a little better in many ways but what I really like is that it looks better, and the TFT dash and connectivity are superb.
I agree that the R1250R is as good a tourer as the RS or the GS. You can in fact fit the same luggage to both bikes. I added the BMW touring screen and can happily spend all day riding at motorway speeds. Finally, and most importantly I found the R to be more comfortable than the RS, which feels to have an odd riding position.
I raised the bars on my R1200ST fro that very reason. Its so much better now. Plus it looks snazzy with that stacked headlight fairing.
The RS is my favorite of all the BMWs, I've owned. There are minor issues with rider geometry, TFT being too complicated, Bluetooth, choice of helmet etc but I have no real complaints. I tend to ignore all the bells and whistles anyway-- my 2021 R1250RS is a great motorcycle.
What are the minor rider geometry issues? I don't have one but find them intriguing
@@windyrun7979 ah yes..for my body size and arm length, I've had to experiment with risers, seating position, helmets, mirrors, and screen position and I still don't have a sense of optimality that I had with the R1150R. Even so, it's the best motorcycle I've owned so the complaints are minor.
I just want to put forward since NONE of the BMW reviews compared to other bikes mention it, most reviews say the BMW bikes cost considerable more than most other touring bikes, however NO reviews ever mention that most touring bikes are made to run for 100 000 miles (160 000 km) while the BMWs are built to go for 200 000 miles (320 000 km)! So what you pay is actually paying for two of the other bikes. Thought I mention this since nobody ever does.
100% agree, I won´t ever understand why someone would buy a 1250GS over a 1250RS for 100% road usage, the RS looks way better and is lighter, handles better.....BTW, where are those roads? they look like Italy or Spain
Great review keep up with the great content and style. I love my RS so much I have just gone and replaced it for another one after a year notching up 8500 miles. This bike is just about perfect for me, I am 59 years old and only been riding for 2.5 years. I previously owned a Triumph Tiger 800 (Low). The balance and handling coupled with a standard seat height of 790mm makes this bike for me a confidence inspiring machine to ride.
for what reason?
I have an R1250RS and I agree with this assessment.
Loved my years of ST riding, and in that time this was one bike I really wanted. Yet over time my knees and carpal tunnel wrist issues pushed me back to a floorboard cruiser.
As a former long-term Beemer aficionado, the main reason I left the brand had much more to do with the cost of ownership than the purchase price and/or quality of the product. There always seemed to be a haughty hubris at the service & parts counter, and I know I’m not the only person who felt the burn. All that said, the RS certainly has its appeal. But, so do other addictive drugs . . .
Not just beemers, but most european bikes are just like that. Anyway, ride safe, god bless u.
That is exactly why the other two obvious Japanese choices are so compelling. Why spend the time and money on keeping it on the road when you can, well, be on the road all the time!
i agree 100%. I left the brand because the cost of ownership was getting outrageous.
Thank you for saying, I've been a rider for close to 40yrs. And that's one of the main reasons why I won't go near BMW. Cost of ownership way too high.
You wanna feel ripped off? Buy a Harley. Anyhow, yes my RS costs money to own. But, i can afford it.
I have a 2020 Exclusive R1250RS. I like it very much over the R1250GS and S1000XR. It’s a fantastic sports tourer. Mine also has the option 719 classic billet pack, classic forged alloy wheels, panniers painted in matching colour, Akrapovic muffler and a 760mm low seat. I also set the adjustable foot peg to the lowest position. I am 5’7” with a 29” inseam. Only thing I don’t like it’s the recommended cruising speed is limited to 180kph with the panniers attached. 😬
I subscribed to your channel right after hearing you say, "... if you're so inclined to ruin a good ride." You were discussing the connectivity. Very cool. I'll check all that after I'm done riding, thank you!
If I close my eyes and listen it's as if John Noakes is reviewing motorcycles, which is a surreal and rather pleasant experience!
I've tried the RS both 1200 and 1250 on a number of occasions but always returned to the equivelent GS as the comfort, riding position and all round visibility are better. In the UK the TE version of the GS also means you're not adding "packs" to the configuration so the trade in value is always higher. Apart from being a bugger to clean the only downside to the GS is it's so common, but that's for a reason 😉
Well, 12 months on I have an RS😂 why the change of heart? There were several reasons for leaving the GS fold after 8 years
1 I fancied a change
2 I no longer carry a pillion so passenger comfort isn't a consideration
3 In the 8 years of GS ownership I've never ridden off road
4 As I get older and being on the small side the GS was becoming just a bit of a handful to move about and control at low speed
5 Cost, the price of a GS has risen considerably in the last few years with the gap between it and the RS (and R) getting bigger and bigger with similar spec'd GS' being £4000 more than an equivelent RS now.
6 it's nowhere near as common as a GS, sometimes it's nice to be different.
7 At last a decent colour option for the RS SE (BMW Motorrad sport colours)
Add the option to have the tubular sports handlebars from the R makes it a nice package
I love my RS being a short person works for me and my god it can shift in the road when you need it to.
The roadster has always been my favorite boxer engined BMW and I agree with you that with a windscreen it makes a more fun sport tourer than the RS. When I test rode the R1250R I was surprised to like it so much. In fact, as a Aprilia Tuono V4 and Triumph Street Triple owner, I was expecting preferring the 2021 S1000R over the R1250R but found the S1000R souless and would buy the R1250R more easily. Nonetheless there is a new arrival in the ST segment that is exciting me more than the R1250R and that is the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello
Having been tempted by the RS for many years, I agree now that it's for people who really want a GS but can't bring themselves to go along with the crowd. Personally I've got over the GS stigma thing, I don't care anymore, but being a 5'8 short arse it'll always be off my list. I go too many places with off cambers and potholes unfortunately.
I love my KTM Superduke GT and also sport tourers in general. They are capable to drive fast and also far with at least a bit of wind protection. Also Kawasaki H2 SX with the 200 hp comressor engine needs to be mentioned!
I love Superduke GT!! I tried before I bought my R1250RS and this KTM made my decisión really difficult. I agree with your comment 100%.
Just had my 12k service on my 1250RS, they gave me a 1250R loan bike for the day. That's my next bike. I love the torque and shaff drive, but the way they've kicked out the front wheel from the bottom of the forks, I now know has ruined the handling on the RS. The 1250R with the front wheel in line with the forks is just so much more fun... Handling is so much quicker...
The only other thing is don't get one from new with those Metzlers fitted! They wear so unevenly it's a joke... fitted the Mitch Road 5 initially, now on the Road 6 and these really help the comfort and handling from the Devil's Metzlers...
Basically a great bike, but spoilt by the front wheel position....
cool testing as always, I love the R1250R, it gives me all and for longer tour I put on the marathon screen provided by the German "Wunderlich" and there she goes. 5000km tour just enjoyable. 😉
In my humble opinion, among all the motorbikes of the R1250 bunch, RS is the perfect choice if you don’t go by the dirt. Tested the naked one, I discarded it in 2 minutes for its lack of weather protection. I like RT veeeery much but it is too massive in my opinion and GS I simply don’t like (apart than pavement is where I like to ride). RS is very enjoyable in the twisties, you can feel it, smooth as well as full of power and personality, nimble also in the city, perfect for commuting, has enough wind protection and is very comfortable unless you are extraordinary tall (I am 179 cm)…. Now it is more than 35 years I own/ride on 7 different big motorbikes including Kawasaki ZZR600 ❤️ in the 90’s and BMW F800S the last years before I bough my R1250RS one year ago…, and it really has it all…, I would definitely buy it 1000 times again. ✌🏼✌🏼
Top recommendation from an actual owner, I can understand why you're so happy.
5:08 : You can ride one of these down a dirt road just fine. Lots of people do it all the time. Perhaps not in the sense of "cross a desert on unmarked sand roads" or "1000km on an unserviced logging road through Siberia", but you can certainly do "Oh there's a nice unpaved road through here to the next village".
Great review, intelligent and objective, I’m getting an RS ‘cos I’m old (63) and short, GS is just to big and top heavy, can get my feet down flat on the RS.
Just bought one for the same reasons :)
@@alanpennykid133are you happy with it? Im 1.63m so am very inclined to the RS and maybe grind the standard seat a little bit so i can feel more confortable. Did you use raisers or lowered seat?
Loved my R1200RS but having come from a K1600GT my pillion let me know nearly every ride how much more comfortable that bike was. Ended up with the R1200RT as a compromise and my ears and neck now thank me.
i want the RS so bad but also want the RT ... sucks i can't have both lol
@@Jpizzle925 Both great bikes but if you take a pillion regularly I'd go with the RT (unless they have never experienced the comfort of a bike like the RT), then you might get away with the sportier RS.
Interesting vid. Personally, when I'm traveling on the road with a sport tourer, not once have I thought my ride would be better if I had a little more hp or torque, or if only my suspension was a little harder or softer, or if only I had more electronics. But what I did realize is that my ride is only better if I had the right "fit" on the bike. I realized that the right fit determines all the difference, when the bikes are set up back to oem standard. Tall riders over 6 ft should find european tourers as a better fit, while riders under 6 ft will fine jpn tourers a better fit. And for heavy riders, harley will fit them better. With the right fit, the body will be more relax, thereby making any sport touring ride ideal and less fatigued. Anyway, ride safe, god bless u.
Very valid observation
I have the earlier R1200RS and I came to it from a life long diet of angry sportsbikes and nakeds. It's a slow burn, the longer you have the bike and the further you go the better you live it. So easy, so capable. Tour, commute or scratch It's very close to flawless. An RT would make me feel like life was over. A GS says long way round wannabe, yes we see you standing on the pegs ... in Waitrose car park. The plain old R has less wind protection. In summary the RS is the correct choice.
I had many hrs on a demo RS, and I disliked it. The ergos are too far forward and the front is raked out from the R, so that it steers slowly. As a former GS and RT owner, I completely agree with your conclusions - the GS is simply the best BMW all rounder...and if you want to tour, the RT is hard to beat.
And, of course, The Katoom 1290 SAS is a far better bike than the GS, IMHO... 🙂
Nice bike, tested few months ago.. but I'll stick with my K1300s. Shame BMW doesn't do a new version of it, but they probably think the RS cover that segment of sport/touring.
In my opinion, the RS is more touring than sporty, and for long distance I prefer the in-line 4 rather than a twin boxer.
I have the RS’s naked brother, the R1250R, a 2020, and it’s the best bike I’ve ever owned (and my first BMW). I did testride the RS a couple times before opting for the R, since the RS is what lured me into the dealership, but its ergonomics and heavier cornering with the longer rake just wasn’t for me.
Also have a R1250R and there's no deying it's just a fantastic, all-around bike. I still kinda miss the 'cool' of a retro but this BMW does everyting so well
Yeah the R is pretty good 😁
Perhaps it's been mentioned here (not bothered to go through all the reviews) but I've installed the Wunderlich handle bar conversion. In addition I also have the slightly higher Wunderlich sadle. This makes the RS for me the perfect bike. It combines all the advantages of the RS, that great boxer engine, conventional front suspension and just enough wind protection, with a bit more upright sitting position. It's all personal but this bike is a keeper for me after riding Multistrada for a fair bit of time.
My 16 RT was the best bike I ever had. I have a 21 S1000XR and a 18 k1600b. Both awesome... But I miss the R engine actually... The weight and power and especially the lower rpm torque is awesome.
I had a 2021 RS in gold. It did everything it was made for perfectly. Only downside, and my gripe with all BMWs, was that they are so incredibly bland. I felt that way about the s1000rr I had for two years prior. I ended up trading this bike for a 22 Harley low rider s. The Harley is worse at everything except for the fun department for me. Plus I like to customize.
One slight issue overlooked here, BMWs break. A lot. Thanks for the review though, it must have taken some effort to edit this all together!
The effort is my wife's, not mine. And I've herad this but I've owned and even raced BMWs and never had a problem. Not that I'm doubting you or others, but I do feel that some sweeping statements tend to become memes, often without any genuine justification.
@@IgnitionBikeShow Unfortunately I'm basing my views on personal experiences. Having owned a K16GT, the switch gear failed, two coils (and yep, this baby has 6 of them), a coolant leak and TPS all within 9 months. When seeking reassurance from fellow BMW owners all they kept saying was, "make sure you get an extended warranty, you'll need it". Its a shame from a premium brand like bmw, to fall down on reliability like that. Anyway, keep up the great content, your wife is a very talented editor! Cheers.
I’ve owned 3 BMW’s with nary a problem that wasn’t covered under a recall or the result of “owner error”.
the fact that it can compete with all the other bikes says it all for me :)
The RS was the first of the 4-valve per head oil/air-cooled BMWs in the R1100RS guise in 1993. Often overlooked, even then. Maybe the reason was the introduction of the R1100GS a year later.
Good review.
Not by me. Had an '03 R1100RS, and then a K1200RS when the R wasn't fast enough. Meeting with my dealer to order a new R1250RS tomorrow.
I rode an R1100RS when it was released but it didnt suit my needs. Had an R1100GS for 6 months(we didnt get along) and an R1100R for quite a few years, to me it was the best all rounder. Ive recently bought a very low mileage R1250RS and loving it. I'm not tall and the RS is far more suited to my riding these days than the GS, besides I have a K100 sidecar for the rough road stuff when needed. My wife is likely to get a 1250R so I'll get to try that every now and then too.
Only had K-RSs before, this is the first R series RS in the stable.
Brilliant analysis. Test rode an RS, but have decided to keep my RT for the reasons you make. Thanks!
Tried the RS, but it quickly reminded me that BMW builds their big bikes for big people. A nice ride, but too stretched-out for me. Chose a low-mileage Norge, which fits my shorter reach. Hopefully MG will have a replacement for it someday.
I fully share your analysis. Sensible bike, it can be a passion for some as the flat is great, it's sporty but not too demanding on the wrists.
I considered the RS 1250 over the GS when I bought my last bike. I liked the look and wanted to keep the flat that had grown on me with my R9T. I had previously tried a GS 1250 when the RS was not yet available, no wonder once you buy one of these you hardly want to drive anything else, ever. It's not only for the image, it just does it all perfectly. Maybe too perfectly and I was not ready to buy a bike I would only replace by its successor ;).
I also tested the Superduke GT to compare with the RS, less plush but so much fun and craziness. Then on the suggestion of the dealer I tried a second hand Super Adventure S: at 1,80m, lot of added comfort for very little compromise on beastiness... It was a heart beat choice. When I'm alone I enjoy being "reasonably stupid" (if that makes sense), and when we are two my wife likes it more then the RS we also tested 2 aboard.
The RS is a good bike, it makes sense on its own. But when you're putting that kind of money, the competition is at such a level it wasn't good enough for my sporty kind. But you know what's great? As motorcyclists we have all this choices to find what suits us best!
Great analysis, I agree. As bikers we are living in a golden (if expensive - but maybe I'm just too poor!) time.
Own an early 80's BMW R100RS.... still looking for the the 21st century iteratation, with the boxer power delivery, while in a protective cocoon from the cold and wind blast, with the gorgeous RS fairing style... haven't found it yet. ;)
I feel like you forgot to mention the FJR1300 when you were comparing all the competitors. There is a reason a lot of cops around the world use them.
Excellent review, and a great overview of where it fits the market, in other words "How did we get to here!" - The common theme in the comments blow seems Cost of Ownership and not the purchase price - Anyway I'm still going to buy one, but a 2 to 3 year old model, and I WILL enjoy every mile on it! Thank you for the food for thought here!
I go for the XR, I find the RS to sporty in body stance for my 55 years, 6"3 and 250lbs
I understand that big fella, but much as I absolutely adore the XR, the torque of the Boxer motor grows on me more each time I ride it.
Put the R bars on the RS. Problem solved.
The RS is amazing. I did love my RT. But Im happily married now to my Tiger 900 GT Pro, chewing up the miles.
THe explanation is valid. Although the naked r1200 comments are personal because you always favor naked bikes, maybe the handlebar height of the naked bike does it for you better?
Your right in that the adv bikes have taken over. I just purchasded the predisessor to the 1250RS bike, the old R1200ST with its stacked headlights. A fairly lightly used sample with full Ohlins suspension for $5000 us dollars. A bargain for sure. It will do all the same stuff the R1250RS does but with ought all the electronic wizbang features. With a raised handlebar the bike is supremely comfy now. All three bags plus tank bag. For me its the perfect backup sport/touring bike,of course, to my Multistrada ADV sport touring bike! Ironic isn’t it?
I’m leaning toward the RT, took delivery on a 2022 triple black 1250 couple weeks ago. This is my 6th Rt I’ve owned.
Pretty spot on analysis, great video!
Almost bought this but ended up with a GS which is a surprisingly capable all rounder. It has been to a track day at Las Vegas Motor Speedway & stuck to the frame in deep River sand on a 2 track in Joshua Tree Park. Next time I’ll buy an RS & a KTM EXC.
Sport touring bikes are great if you’re 25. If you’re not, get thee to a lowered GSA. The wheel size of the GSA does not limit your tire selections, in my experience. It increases them.
I have a 2020 RS with almost 6000 miles on it so far (and so far, no reliability problems at all). A few points.
Yeah, the quick shifter isn't always the greatest, but you overstate how bad it is. I use mine regularly in lower gears and at lower RPM. The trick is when upshifting, you have to be on the throttle at least a little bit and you have to be purposeful with the lever. Also, while I've seen other boxer BMWs with the Hayes calipers, I've never seen one RS with them. Also, assuming they don't have any leaking, the Hayes calipers are reported to function as well as the Brembos. Admittedly, I'd rather have Brembos.
I do think BMW should have made either bar risers or the tubular bars from the R as a factory option. I put risers on mine and it improved the long distance ergos a lot.
Finally, another thing to factor in is price. A GS or RT, in the US at least, is likely another $4000 similarly equipped vs the R or RS. The R and RS also weigh quite a bit less.
Great review, and I have to agree with you Matt. I think putting conventional forks on the RS doesn’t help it, but I personally own a 1250GS and if I was going to change it for another BMW I would be looking at the RT and K1600GT. The problem for the RS is the GS and RT are just too good, after all why have the RS when both of the other two handle just as nicely and have greater luggage capacity and a telelever front end that allows you to ride like a hooligan?
I would prefer the RS over the GS. The 17" wheels, taller gearing, panniers make it the better road bike in my opinion. Plus, now you va order an RS with a tubular handlebar from the R model, which will give it the quicker handling like the R model.
Now here's a little tip about the RS. Try changing the seat. I found the standard Sargent seat a speedy little surprise, in that the big twin was considerably more nimble around town and on the twisties. However that was not enough, so I bought the tall Sargent seat, which brought the height and styling I was after... now I am a happy camper.
So did I 👌👌👌👌
I look at all these different options and after some time on a 1250gs can only confirm I made the perfect decision buying an s1000xr, the do it all superbly bike 😁
I’m 75. I’ve ridden since I was a boy. Bikes are too big now. They’re massive. It’s crazy to drive a bike you can’t lift up. That are so fat that your legs feel like a chicken wishbone being wrestled over by two siblings at Thanksgiving.
I think, ADV bikes are so popular (in the UK at least) due to the poor condition of the roads.
I would go for the R 1250 R model, and just in case of serious travel, add some screen and luggage.
I have an R1250R, with a small BMW fly-screen, and absolutely love it. But yes, changing up in the lower gears is a clunky affair that I still haven’t managed to ride around.
Try “pre-charging”. I put some pressure on the shift lever shortly before I engage the clutch, so as to have some sort of tension, then pull the clutch and you’ll see that the gear will engage more softly
@@carlosalonso9866 thanks. I will give it a try.
@@bruceleong9534 I should have said “pre-loading”, excuse my English
@@carlosalonso9866 no problem, I understood exactly what you said. Thanks
It's a dog shifted gearbox with a tonne of torque running through it. Every shift must be completed quickly and the force on the shift lever must be high and followed through completely. Lazy and sloppy shifts will feel "clucky".
Which would you suggest r1250rs vs r1250r?
A great summary of the R1250RS and the market as a whole -- Well done. Despite owning an R1250GSA, I think the RS is the prettiest bike in the range (maybe my R100RS still swings me that way) and I would love to have one parked in my shed!
I very strongly disagree with one point, however: The comment made at 4:55 regarding the inability of the bike to "travel on anything dirtier than a dusty hairpin" is, I must say, pure nonsense! My wife and her R1250R (which is, in effect, an RS without the fairing) regularly traverse gravel roads -- and not many of them are super smooth dirt highways. The R, and by extension the RS, is extremely capable on theses roads. The single biggest limiting factor is actually the tyres, as sporty road tyres these days have such a thin carcass that they are prone to punctures and cuts from sharp rocks and stones. A set of Continental TKC70s or similar fixes this, however, whilst still allowing excellent sporting performance. The assumption made in the video is akin to the current madness that dictates even a gravel driveway these days requires a 4WD or SUV.......
Yeah...and no - as you state about the tyres. And the gravel roads I've experienced tend to have sudden dips and potholes that bottom-out suspension and cause any number of problems as a result. Not impossible as you and many a superbike rider have proven in the past, but there are better ways to skin that off-road cat!
@@IgnitionBikeShow 🤣😂🤣. My wonderful, vertically challenged wife and riding partner would laugh at being rated a superbike rider!! She will tackle dirt roads as a means to end and occasionally will admit to have liked a particular gravel road. Roads, including gravel, don't always have to be attacked at full tilt. Taking road conditions and bike limitations into account still means that the R (and RS) is more than capable of tackling lengthy gravel road sections without threat to rims or pride. With a country that abounds in nearly as many gravel roads as sealed (Australia), sometimes we just have to use what we have! Keep the reviews coming!
Yeah...and i would go for the ninja1000sx or the new 1000gt...the Sport on sport-touring is a must!
I was considering the RS, but eventually choose the S1000XR. It's more alive, more exciting and maybe no that much torque, but man he screams at 8k and the generated power is very addictive. Also the butter smooth response of the 4 inline made me decide to go for the XR
screams sreams s1000 xr accelerate much better than rs 1250 thanks lower weight slightly chain instead off shaft + more power 100-200 in 6 sec vs 8 sec 🤭 however rs 1250 have better lowend up to like 6-7 k rpm from idlle os + maintenance less shaft 👍🏻 personally would choice rs 1250 👍🏻 yea egzacly the same they concluded what im say here 👉🏻 m.th-cam.com/video/avaXFuwNWlk/w-d-xo.html so s xr is much weaker at low to modrange rpm 😁👌🏻in race s xr beat rrs thanks lower wieght and more top end power + lil less drove train losess but daily all day long r rs 😉👌🏻👍🏻 rs 👉🏻 m.th-cam.com/video/fsorsX_Gkp8/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUbYm13IHIgMTI1MCBycyBhY2NlbGVyYXRpb24g vs xr 👉🏻 m.th-cam.com/video/-qvWCqGAYUk/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUbYm13IHMgMTAwMCB4ciBhY2NlbGVyYXRpb24g .
Rode it. A very nice bike, but the riding position is a bit too much on the wrists. Otherwise almost no bad point. :) Can check ti. Keep up.
Matt finally something I can agree with you.👏 I knew if I hung around long enough you find that lucid moment. 😄😄😄😄
Damn, must have been a mistake. I will reconsider my opinion immediately.
@@IgnitionBikeShow 😁😁
Nice video. Well done opinions and cinematography.
G'day Mat. Love the video as usual brother, but how come you forgot to mention the Yamaha fjr 1300? Electronic suspension, cruise control, electric screen, very comfortable and bloody sporty when you want it to be. The perfect sport tourer in my opinion. Cheers mate.
Maybe cause Yamaha I believe discontinued the brand.
@@frankmalone8389 Not true. 2022 FJR1300 ES still for sale at dealer today in Canada.
@@brianlindsay1386 okay but I don't live in Canada.
As the miles keep ticking up on my r1100s and I dream of my next steed, I am hugely enamored with this bike - and with good reason, it's the modern iteration of my current ride [funny how many people in the comments own/ed these bikes, though I guess it's predictable too].
I find the GS amazing but... not as roadbike planted/aggro as I like, particualry in terms of how it corners [not whether, again, but how]. I still own and have ridden Ducati Monsters for over 20 years... good fun as I'm sure the R bikes can be, but again... not as plush, not as well packaged for the real ST stuff.
I'm really hoping that someone has or is buying the perfectly outfitted blue r1250rs I so desire and is riding it only enough to keep it fresh and properly depreciate for me to steal it of them in 3-5 years when I NEED it. :)
Great piece, great review, thanks!
What about yamaha fjr 1300 ?
I so nearly bought a R1250RS, but went with another GS. It was great fun, and maybe now after two GS’s I might revisit the RS itch!! And I’ve never had any plans to take a GS off road so why not go with an RS route? Or perhaps a K1600……..
If you want to go far, fast get a sport tourer. The RS would be my pick if it was 100 lbs. lighter. My R1200 S put out 124HP, had heated grips, fully adjustable Ohlins, weighed 70lbs less than the RS and it was relatively affordable. It was a true sport touring bike and that was 15 years ago. I wish BMW would try again.
5:27 wasn't the Honda VFR 800/1200 the classic Honda sport tourer?
I testdrove it when it was still the 1200 rs right after riding my dream bike the ninja 1000sx which was good but felt heavy at low speed the rs was on another level to be honest i havent tried the latest models of both but im thinking my conclusion will be thesame only thing with the rs was i kept hitting my shins against the cylinders but thats something you need to get used to i guess.
Interesting video. This is the second time that I watched it and like you said it might seem disjointed. I was surprised again I guess I forgot. But, on one hand it seems like you were for it but as the video continued it seemed like you were not for the RS. I think that is the issue with the bike people either like it or not but is is an exceptional bike from fit and finish to components etc. I just purchased a 2023 RS and I think it is one of the best bikes out pound for pound and it is an all arounder. It can be ridden around town where frequent stops happen or on the HWY.
I really like the look of the RS and would at the least like to see and sit on one in person, but have not seen one at any dealer on the east coast. Do you have to order them???
They need to make a fully faired version of the S1000R similar to what the GSX-S1000F was. Would be the perfect bike for me. I dont want a Supersport track bike, or a sports touring or adventure bike. I want somethjng smaller and lighter but not a naked.
Brilliant review. This level of insight is what makes a channel like yours worth following and subscribing, thank you! 🙏🏽
Shame you forgot the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce in your round up. You tested it when first launched in 2015/2016 and it’s been developed since into a unique and very focussed sports tourer that is woefully overlooked. It superbly refined and practical and the quickshifter is one of the best going. There’s also a Rekluse type clutch less system developed specifically for this bike that makes it unique in the sports touring world. The panniers take a full face helmet each but are no wider than the bars thanks to the clever subframe design. Worth a new review I reckon but maybe wait until you can do a group test with the bike that may yet save the sports tourer sector from oblivion: the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello! 😆
The FJR1300 is also a perennial champ in this segment. In markets where it's still available (?).
I wanted to try the RS, but it didn’t fit me. I can ride the RT (my current bike) and the GS, but the RS and R have a slightly different setup/riding position that means I cannot get my feet down properly and the width of the bars puts my shoulders and neck into a very uncomfortable position. Mos people wouldn’t notice, but I think these minor position changes can make a big effect on how the bike feels on the road.
Gving away 20kgs and 40bhp to the orange one doesn't impress me, nor does the shaft.
And BMW's shaft drive has some serious reliability problems.
I'd prefer a sporting bike with touring pretensions over a touring bike with sporting pretensions any day of the week. After all, I may have the opportunity to tour once or, if I'm lucky twice a year, and I'd be compromising all my other riding just so that I could tour in "Ultimate comfort". OTOH, I've never had problems with 1000 mile days, even when I "Toured" on an EXUP.
I may no longer be up to doing quite that, as age no longer creeps up on me, rather I can hear its hoofbeats galloping alongside, but even that speaks in favour of something like the SD1290GT because, with the loss of mobility, I have found it increasingly difficult to swing a leg over one of those monstrous ADV bikes.
I had one of the first R1250R in the Uk and rode a very quick 4k miles. It was epic
So - curious. Now that the Guzzi v100 is out, i don't suppose you are planning a head to head are you?
You missed the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello, a comparison would be very interesting
This year I'm replacing my Versys 650 and it will be either tracer 9 or this BMW rs... Been on tracer and that's great bike now I have to try BMW
For most people, the RS is the best choice over a GS if road is all you do. Less cumbersome 2up, better handling and just as versatile.
Great video, as allways!
The only difference between the R and the RS is the fairings / screen and handle bars. So if you want comfortable touring on your list of options the RS is the best choice.
Never better said! 👍🏻
Yeah, I know, which is why I said there's no reason for the difference in feeling other than what I presume must be the riding position and the effect that has on weight distribution; but even that is subject to rider size and style. Difficult to explain, but I really, really felt more connected to the 'R' than I did with the RS. But, as you rightly point out, and I referred to in the test, the ingredients are so similar that there's no obvious reason why that feeling might exist.
Is this bike okay for shorter riders? 5’8”, 31inch inside leg.
For this height, that bike will be okay
Exellent and honest review, thank you.