The 'modes' change when you engage the clutch. The idea is that you set the mode as you see conditions change up ahead, you are running down a paved road, for example, and you see a dirt road coming up, or on the navigator screen or you know the area. You press the mode button a few times to the mode you need. In the mean time you stay in the mode you were in, because you haven't changed your driving needs yet. As soon as you engage the clutch it changes into the new mode instantly. The modes really just vary the safety equipment, like ABS and throttle control so you have more chance of staying upright. Turning the modes to 'Enduro Pro', for example, pretty much shuts off all the safety defaults so you can ride like a Real Man, as we all did back it the '70s when we were kids. No techno safety net, just guts and knowhow and learning the hard way with many injuries that were all part of the deal of riding in the woods and rocks, no helmet or fancy boots, just a stripped down bike and shorts, and it was worth it!. Those were the days, before everything had to 'protect you from hurting yourself', because you have no clue how to ride a motorcycle. Anyway, I am 55 years old and still push the bike pretty hard and this bike gets the job done and then some. If you go off road, I suggest you understand that this beast is heavy, and it carves a rut in the soft ground that can bring you down if you're not in good shape and are too timid. Intuition tells you to slow down because you can feel the weight and your mind does the 'math'. But in most cases, assuming you have the proper tires, you're better off using the torque this thing has, lifting the front up a bit and riding through the rough. But again, you better be in pretty good shape and have confidence in holding the line or you may get a rude awakening. Then you have to pick this thing up, and when it's muddy and on a steep incline, you're going to have to earn it. This is a great bike, but it's a heavy bike, and that weight as it's advantages, on the highway, and it disadvantages, in soft ground and when you drop it. But It is a Man's Machine. Go hard, or go home. P.S. The shift assist both up and down is beautiful!
Nice and honest appraisal from an owner. Big difference to a bike reviewer who doesn't want to upset the manufacturer. Am currently looking at the adventure bike market purely for the comfortable riding position. Test rode the new R1200R just for the engine while in Portugal but it's a naked which is not for me. The dealer didn't have a GS or RT for testing. Looking forward to a test ride when I get back to the UK. Keep the reviews coming as you are doing a good job and your comments are worth a lot more than most professional reviewers. As I said earlier, (honest). Thank you
Trevor Herrington Hi Trevor, you're more than very welcome, Thank you ever so much for a brilliant comment I truly do appreciate you taking the time to do respond, it's nice to know that someone is getting something from my videos. I like the R1200R but I'm not a fan of the naked style either, the new R1200RS looks amazing and I really could be tempted onto one of these, the 1200GS engine in a S1000RR style bike. Thanks again Trevor for the view and response, as said I truly do appreciate it my friend.
Hi Doug, thank you my fiend for the view and brilliant comment I really do appreciate it. I always struggle for real down to earth real person reviews so thought I would do a couple on this what I still think is a perfect bike, the only down side was the price, but now when you compare it to the multistrada and even the new Honda its actually a great buy, with great second hand value. I hope you get sorted mate, thanks again and ride safe my friend.
I have to say that this video is of excellent quality, it is great to watch, there is no useless special effects show, no music you wouldn't want your worst enemy to be submitted to; just - so it appears to me - honest good reporting. It also whetted my appetite for driving one myself, as I am likely to at the end of October. Drive safe (and have fun)
Hi Steven thank you for the view and brilliant comment my friend I really appreciate it, yeah the Yorkshire accent is a bit of love it or hate it, Yorkshire misses you mate.
My words exactly, except in an English accent. 6k on my new GS and I'm loving it ! So sad my season is pretty much over. It's definitely hard not to give 'er the beans regularly. I'm thinking of changing out the windscreen next year, the Missenden Flyer fitted a more " useable " one his GS. Anyway, new sub. Thanks for the effort ! Look forward to more !
Hi mate thanks for the view and great comment, English accent had me chuckling to myself. I've not been well so not been out recently, i will check out that screen too. again my i friend appreciate the comment and the sub.
I just traded my BMW K1300S in (after 9 years on it) for this 2014 model with low milage. Absolutely love it. It's totally different, but as you said, it ticks all the boxes, and it really does! Cheers!
Great review.....Down to earth, funny at times and truthful...... Looking forward to getting my first GS....I'm from Malta (married to a Yorkshire lass)....Might be coming over to the UK to get a used one.... Can't wait.....Will definitely get the Satnav....heard great things about it and saw a great review on TH-cam.
Well after watching your videos, you could almost be me ! I have one, a 2013 TE same colour, same wheels same foglights and I live in Yorkshire. Mine is my first GS after having a Fazer 1000, a VFR 800 and a Suzuki 1000 V Twin. Like you say the GS is just a fun bike to ride. I tell people, forget the "Adventure" tag, ride one. I have just done a 2700 mile Europe trip including France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and back into France, all in 9 days and it was just great. Some of the trip out of necessity was on the Peage and the cruise control was a truly useful feature. I have the Navigator 5 on mine. I wouldn't have bought it but the as I bought it used, it came with one on and That also has some great features that I would miss if I didn't have it now.What I think needs emphasizing is just how good this bike is down twisty roads with its unique suspension.Mine has surprised quite a few sports bike riders. So yes, thanks for the videos, I enjoyed watching them.
Hi Andrew my friend, yeah i think me may be the unknown Yorkshire twins. I agree with you 100% a well ridden GS will out perform and average ridden sports bike and all in comfort, I'll keep my eyes peeled for you, sorry for the delay in responding i've been off line for a while, but i really do appreciate the view and brilliant comment, ride safe my friend.
Thanks for this review; I wish other reviews were as enjoyable and as useful as yours. Great practical info, opinions and a sense of humour to boot. Hope you continue to enjoy your awesome bike and please update if you have a chance. Ride safe!
Hi Diddley wow! thanks for the brilliant comment my friend I really do appreciate it a lot. i have been a little under the weather but i will definately update. Thanks again buddy.
Hey man thank you ever so much for the brilliant comment, I can't describe how great it is for people to watch then take the time to comment so thank you, yeah the northern accent is a bit like or dislike, so thank you buddy.
Just subscribed. Thanks also for the honest reviews. I ordered a new GS last week and am in that state of anxiety while waiting for it to arrive, wondering if I've done the right thing. Your reviews have put that to rest. Swapping a nearly new Street Triple R which I love, but reckon I'll get much more out of the GS. Was also a bit worried about the 'old man stigma' but will happily brush that off (I'm not old). I also like your high-vis stickers. I've ordered the black metallic version and reckon they'll suit it well so may do something similar. Keep up the good work. Cheers
Hi Marcus, thanks for the sub and great comment my friend, I really do appreciate it. I'm stoked for you this bike really does not have any boundaries, it really is about giving it a chance. I love mine, I love where it takes me, I love how sport bikes come tearing past to prove a point only for me to pass them in comfort a few miles down the road :) I would tell everybody to go for the hi vis on the beak it really does make the bike pop and get you seen. enjoy it mate and let us know how you get on.
Thanks for posting . I'm looking to buy one for touring next year must admit the size is a bit intimidating but I have been assured they are great once you start riding. Must admit they look great
+MrRw59 they do only look big, actually could handle mine easier than any other bikes have owned, I even took this off road without any worries. you will be fine after the 1st 2 miles. thanks ever so much for the view and comment my friend.
Nice good video, had my s1200 the now for 18months love it, a few flaws has you have pointed out. But can't see me getting rid of it as it has all the good bits from every bike I've ridden and put it into this one fantastic machine. keep up the great reviews.
ThePlymouthbikers hey there my friend thank you for the great comment, and taking the time to view, I really do appreciate it. I am with you all the way on that, its just a great all rounder as you say all the good bits from very bike, nicely put. Thanks again mate and ride safe. Just subbed your channel too, I am in Cornwall 4or5 times year as my daughter lives in Newquay some great edits on your first video.
+6r4metroman Hey there thank you very much for the view and great comment I really do appreciate it. I bet you can't wait, I was so anxious the day before I got mine, It's still the best bike I have owned for general messing about and touring around Scotland. Ride Safe My Friend.
Great review! had mine about 3 months now and absolutely love it. Actually traded in a 3 week old repsol fireblade. It's just a different type of biking as you say, plan to do a lot of touring in Europe and think it's about perfect for that, did Spain and Italy on a fireblade years ago but fuck that! wouldn't even make it to Dover now. Agreed with just about everything you say even about having a test ride and not really liking it that much, it is so different from a sportsbike, so happy I went for it though, like my speed too but I find on the GS it's not as important, sometimes a nice chilled ride on a good day is the just what you need Keep it up mate
Hi Danny, thank you ever so much for the view and brilliant comment. so glad you took the leap too and gave it a chance, i did europe on a cbr6oo and know what your saying too funny man., you just need to strap a gopro on now mate, thanks again for the view and taking the time to comment.
It's funny how the same bike is perceived so differently in different countries. In UK, you say everyone thinks it's an old mans bike, in Australia it's perceived as an unreliable coffee shop bike, and in South Africa its perceived as the ultimate adventure tourer. Would love to see the Scotland trip video!
johnnste1 Hi my friend thanks for the view and comment, you're absolutely right I guess it's down to peoples experiences with them, if mine had broke down a lot this video would not exist, but I have been lucky to have 2 now both problem free. My audio failed on my Scotland land trip and I am not a great lover of bike tour music videos, but I am putting something together, thank you ever so much for taking the time to comment.
Thanks for the reply. I am a Honda man and have owned a VFR for 13years ;-) however I've always hankered after a boxer engined GS since the 1100. I do love the look of the Africa twin and loved the original one. I feel as though I have to scratch the GS itch.
Hey your welcome mate. I can't say a bad thing about the GS I have had 2 the air cooled and the LC, the LC was amazing with all the electronic toys you could hope for. I did 12hrs in the saddle all the way around the isle of Skye and back to Yorkshire in one go with ease. I know what them itches feel like mate, you'll have to scratch it :) all I can say is I prefer the Africa Twin, but maybe would have both if my numbers came up :D
Good info and great video. I would of loved to see different angles of the ride, I can't get enough of it, Ive seen almost all the videos on YT. I'll put some of mine when it arrives. Ive actually went for the adventure version after testing the standard GS. Mainly because of the tank range.
Hi my friend thanks for the view and great comment, and great to hear you've gone for the adventure version, look forward to seeing it. i should have really done some different angles good advice.
good on you mate they are an amazing bike, I loved both of mine and can't say a bad word about them (well other then the price) but you do get what you pay for with the GS :) I've now got the New Africa Twin.
Yeah the $$! The new bike is out of my reach so I opted for a quality used r1200GS. Had it for 4 days now and put on about 150 miles riding in town and out in the country getting accustomed to the bike. I love it!
They are something special, torqey and comfortable, i could keep up with most everything on normal roads, i'm glad your loving it mate, ride safe buddy.
Thanks for the video. I can tell you love this bike. I will be getting the 1200 soon stepping up from my F8. I now have a passenger and I know this bike will fit the bill for two up as well as much desired solo riding. Again, thx for the great video.
Leslie Sofarelli Hi Leslie, you're more than welcome, and thank you ever so much for taking the time to view and comment, you can hardly tell you're carrying passengers on this bike due to it's size and balance, a perfect step up from the F8 (I had one of those too) it means so much that you enjoyed my video and took something from it. Thank you so much and ride safe.
looking forward to the larger CC's and having a passenger once in a while lol ...love your sense of humor. Hey, when some in France curses what do they say? Pardon my English? ;-)
+chris bolwell Hi Mate thanks for the view and comment, I do appreciate it yeah the new LC version is far better bike than the 2010 I too had a 2010 (GS) I really love the adventure but have never took the plunge
Nice video, and you’re right about the first ride experience. I own the RR and at first i didn’t like the GS at all (’11. model). Too big, too heavy, too soft, clunky gearbox... However I’m attracted to the Idea of traveling on a bike more and more. Getting old I suppose :) I do travel on my RR but to be honest, while I enjoy fast curvy roads everything over 350 km a day is a pain. I think the RR may become a track only bike in the future.
Thank you my friend, I really appreciate the comment, I had a yellow RR what a bike really capable and loads of fun but your right when you get to touring mileage it can be too much, thats the reason i got the GS and after getting used to it, i love it i have done 12hours in the saddle and over 500km days in absolute comfort, and seriously had loads of fun hooning around hung off it too. thanks again man.
looool!! Your video cracked me up!! You're a funny man lol... Thank you for the review! This is my dream bike and you just confirmed that I should get one :-) Cheers to you Surf Pilot... #Hero
Hi there skyblu, thanks so much for the view and brilliant comment, i really do appreciate my friend. I would suggest everyone at some point has a play on one of these and hang off it like a loon :-) thanks again buddy made my day this comment.
Great review mate ! I've got a 12 plate gsa that I'm chuffed to bits with but after seeing your video the wife's barred me from going anywhere near Rainbow !!! (I'm liking the extras) Are you local to Selby ? I'm just up the road in Thorne. Recognised the roads.
+duncan buckley Hi Matey yeah I'm from Castleford but head over that way on ride outs either short squirts or heading to the east coast. I've now got the New Africa Twin, I'm going to do a viddy of that soon, I loved and miss my GS, saying that I'm still in the I love my Africa Twin stage at the minute :)
Forgot to ask do the handlebars fit you ok. I had to put risers on my Vstrom 650 much better I'm 5' 11" 220 lbs. Awesome video, keep them coming cant wait to see your 6 month review!
hi again my friend, the handlebars adjust (tilt forwards) with ease to riase them i did this so that they were more comfy when stood on the pegs, thanks again i appreciate the great comments:
Hey up mate :-) it's a brilliant bike but I have just got the Africa Twin and being honest i prefer it, a fair bit cheaper too, thanks for stopping by my friend i appreciate it
Stigma ? Unfortunately we have a bad habit in the U.K. of jealousy and stereotyping people where bikes and cars are concerned , I’ve had every bike imaginable, including Harley’s and BM’s (including GS’s ) loved them all 👌🏻😎 nice review 👍🏻
Great video keep em coming lad 👍 iv been on a Harley Heritage for years and just bought a 2016 RT Iconic number 11 love it but the GS looks nice 😉 maybe one day 😊
Enjoyed your video. Also noted the excellent sound quality during your vlog...would you please share set up namely, external microphone brand and make as well we overall set up process. Thanks, Al from Canada!
Hi there Al thanks for stopping by me friend and picking up on the audio, I spent some time getting it right. Its really is just a cheapish lapel mic of eBay about £9, but then I use dead cat (fur mic cover) also from eBay over the mic and foam. This is then where the real weird part comes in, I use a piece of dense foam from the cup of a women's bra (seriously) between the dead cat and chin part of the helmet to dampen the voice and not over distort. The mic is then directly in front of your mouth and not buried behind the foam cheek liner to the left or right as most do. No wind noise and nearly perfect audio on the cheap. Hope this helps and makes sense.
cheers for this buddy; really helped in making my mind up and this will be my next bike! I'm looking at a 15 plate which doesn't seem to have the same gear such as LED lighting, I guess these were added later?
Hi there, thank you very much for taking the time to view and the great comment. I thought LED headlamps were fitted to bikes from 2014 unless they were model specific, I'm certain the TE version did, from 2015 I thought all did unless it was an option. The LED aux lights were definitely an option on all GS's so maybe not specked by the purchaser. I know you'll love it my friend ride safe...
Great review, I have just brought one I must admit I am not keen on fours but love twins, I agree its a fun bike told to ride one by severial friends (expensive mistake listening to them lol) . I managed to get a satnav on Ebay less than half the price of the dealers
Watched this and your Tracer vids so far. Like the way you review the bikes. I'd love a GS but for my use I think a Tracer is the sensible option. Was that Monk Fryston? Not far from here, Kelfield
+hudsonrilke Hi Mate really sorry for the delay in answering it never showed in my feed, and thanks ever so much for all the views and comments, yeah that is Monk Fryston I had been through Fairburn and Squires I'm guessing your local.
Excellent video, I really enjoyed it. Were you serious when you said 60 to the gallon, was that 60mpg? I don't have a bike at the moment, I had two r1100gs's I put over 40,00 on each of them, loved them to bits, I imagine this is a similar concept just massively improved where it counts? all the best, ride safe tony cheers
antonoat Hi Tony, thanks ever so much for the brilliant comment I really do appreciate it my friend, yes I was clearing 60mpg, there is a live view feed in the display of current mpg, to help you ride like a tight arse lol. I had the older 1200gs 2010 version before this, but the new lc model really is perfection, other than the price of course, thanks again for the view and taking the time to comment, ride safe too my friend.
Hi my friend, thanks for the views and great comment, its a small bottle of visor cleaner stuck on with sticky velcro. I put it there so it was easy to use on the move for scotland trip, thanks again appreciate it mate.
hi dervman thanks for the view and comment, yeah i had a 2010 version and this new lc version is such a better bike, i loved my older one too. thanks again i do apprecaite the great comment.
They're not too bad are they. I've just got a new en. Had a few before over the last 4 years after various other bikes. Where in Yorks are you based then?
***** hi mate, they really are a great bike, I know a lot don't get them, but I have done the sports bike thing to the point I stopped enjoying riding. it was all about how quickly I could get somewhere and then thinking I was lucky to get home. since having the GS's I have started to love the ride, the thing I passed my bike test for, I'm from well near Wakefield mate. Thanks for the view and taking the time to comment.
Bloody good vid mate, got my fourth GSA coming on 1st March, having had a K1600 for 2 years in-between.. liked the K but the GSA just has soul.. you sound just like me when riding but I've got a staffs twang lol.. Get out up around Yorkshire quite a bit in summer as I've got family in Harrogate... Keep up the good work.. are you still enjoying it?
Hey man thanks ever so much for the view and great comment, I so wished I had gone for GSA, I know exactly what you say about it having soul. I love the bike having had a 2010 version the new lc does feel better, for me I guess its the perfect do it all bike and it was so at home around Scotland, I still review my pics and vids today lol, hey my friend thanks again for taking the time o comment and view. Do you vlog? I will check your channel out that would be the quick way to find out lol, but if not strap a cam we need more GS vloggers :-)
***** Sorry bud, no volging here and I'm not on Twatface either lol. We are off to Norway in August with White Rose Tours, can't wait for that one, wanted to got there for ages.. Will take plenty of pics tho.. Are you all recovered now, just been reading the other comments and sounds like you have had a rough time of it!!
Hi my friend, I joined twitter and that's about all I did i don't get on with I too well lol, I am so much better mate to be honest better than I was in some ways another month will see me back to full health, thanks ever so much for asking, it came totally out of the blue no warnings just Bam.. hey I here the White Rose do some great stuff, so that should be great adventure, definitely worth sharing the pics 😊
+fish and banana hi there I'm so sorry for the delay i guess you got sorted by now, i have never ridden the 800GS so i cant say I guess it is a lighter version of this and should be pretty good a few videos on here and the owners love them.
Hi Surf Pilot great review seems a cracking bike, I'm ready for change from my K1200s (08) but only a budget for 2011 at most, would you say your new bike is massively superior to the old one or actually a good place to start ?
Hi Graham thanks for taking the time to view and commenting i do appreciate it. I cant pretend this new version is not a better bike, but I had the 2010 version and they are not a million miles apart, and being honest I had as much fun on that as this one, I would without doubt say that the previous vesion is more than a great place to start.
+1mikaax Hi mate sorry for the delay, bough a sheet off ebay and then cut it to shape myself, pretty easy to DIY. Thanks for the view and comment my friend.
Hello SP I pick up a TE on saturday, storm black. A few concerns about filtering, what with the width. Any issues or experience, good or bad? Really excited, and am hoping that this may be the bike I stay with in my advancing years! Your reviews are fab. A touch of northern humour and very straightforward. Cheers
Hey man thank you ever so much for the brilliant comment, and good on you man, you will love it the more you ride it. I had no problems filtering, to be honest I found it easier than my cbr6. The high upright position gives you a great view ahead looking for gaps and the leverage you get from the bars makes it easy to move. I worried about the width too, but once on board you find in truth its not much wider than other bikes, and another plus I found cars do move out of the way more, even BMW car drivers. Enjoy it my friend and let me know how you get on.
***** Well, here we go. I like it. I'm not in love with it, but I believe the bike will get a lot more use than the S1000rr. The sat nav is superb. The seat is not as comfy as I had imagined, although I did work this out on my demo ride. It seems to dig in to the inner thigh. Maybe because I'm carrying a few 'holiday pounds'. From Christmas 2013. Ride seems a little snatchy on the first part of the throttle. Needs a bit of clutch fed in to smooth it out. Pillion is a great success. Mrs loves it, and the top box back rest. I've had a few comments that it looks like I'me delivering pizza, and that it's very grown up (old man). Steering lock means it is actually easier to get into the garage than the sports bike. Otherwise big and heavy. It is also nice to be able to go to the shops for beer, put your lid on the top box, and the beer in for transport home. I reckon they could make it almost perfect, with some tinkering. Bars are about 200mm too wide, and it doesn't float over the bumps like the KTM. Think I shall sign up for some live traffic etc, and start using it for the commute. Then France beckons!! Tally ho...
grumble1968 Hi mate great write up, I found it snatch at first but I put that own to fly by wire throttle, I just put it in rain mode and that smoothed it out perfectly. I played around with the angle of the bars to better suit me too. I had a s1000rr too in yellow, I got so many grown up comments too, but as you say I found myself using the g's for everything, I wished now I had gone or the box. Glad to hear you got one md hope you can find love somewhere down the road. Ride safe my friend
***** Hey Mr SP! I believe I may be developing a modicum of love for the GS. I do wish the bars were a tad narrower though. Does yours make a slight ticking / clacking noise at low speeds and tickover? Almost like a tappet noise? I also think I'm suffering from either road noise or wind noise from the screen. A bit of a drone. I shall monitor and hope it's my huge imagination. I must say with the nicer weather I feel way more inclined to just 'pop out' on it than the previous bikes. I wonder if you can ever get so accustomed to the size that they start to feel like you can chuck them about? How are you currently getting on with yours? Any must have additions or adjustments? The seat is still not comfy. My fat legs.
grumble1968 hi mate great to hear, I never got a ticking noise at low speed, I did have to play with the screen to get the screen just perfect for wind noise, but not really a drone, I have the Arai tour4 and that is a bit of a noisy lid. The size will soon feel perfect i sling mine about like a sport bike, and it feels more rewarding somehow, when you get used to putting your trust in the tc you really can unleash that torque at really impressive angles. The bike is far more capable than your mind allows you to think it is. The soft suspension setting is comfy but removes the feel and feedback, in normal mode I really got the best out of it, I found hard too much, The brakes are amazing you really can get it to stop quick rubbing loads of speed off before the bend the tip it in and let the tc handle a hand full on the way out, I know this sounds like an hooligan riding technique but it will blow our mind when you get used to it, just take your time and when you start to feel at one with it then try the limits it really is a super capable bike. Honestly it will perform beyond your expectations, you really can hang off these things, I started riding enthusiastically with my toe stuck out to gauge the lean angle when it touched the road. I know this makes me sound like an idiot, and 97% of my riding was nice easy touring, Sunday rides out, but when you do want to play with your mate on his gixxer it will let you ;-)
Hi Mate thanks for the view and great comment, I just bought a small length of hi vis decal off ebay I think it was a 1meter length x 800mm and cut it myself with a Stanley knife wrapping it under the beak really easy and very cheap :)
+Surf Pilot No worries mate.... I'm just researching my next bike and I'm pretty much sold on the 1200gs Adventure, in a large part thanks to honest reviews from real world owner/riders like yourself.
+Gabriel Rd you are more than very welcome, you won't be disappointed with the GS, albeit the new Honda Africa Twin looks nice, I have placed an order already :)
antonoat Hey man thank you very much for this comment, I know the length of a video often puts people off as there life's are too busy for my ramblings, so thank you.
Great review! Currently riding the F700gs and looking forward to upgrading to a 1200 gs in a few years time. Not sure about whether to go for the standard GS or the GSA.
Anti electrons hi there thanks very much for the View and comment, sorry for the delay, if i had the money i would have gone for the GSA just to say i had got the best version, and not because i needed one. but being honest the GS TE is perfect in everyway it really does it all.
***** Cheers, the GSA looks pretty good value when you consider the stock package and what is included... But it is pricey...Going to get a demo ride at some point on each to see how I feel, but reading your reviews and others on the web the GS with a couple of the packages thrown in does look to be pretty dam good. Has pretty much the same BHP and a lot more torque than my old RSV MIllle! Amazing.
Great Vid. I'm going to get one in the spring and was just wondering how good the windshield is stock. Do you get blown off the seat or is it tolerable? I,m getting older and that wind in my hair thing is over, especially since there isn't much left! Thanks
hi my friend thanks for the view and comment, the screen is perfect for me at 5'10" it adjust up for motorway work, and removes all wind buffeting, thanks again for the view.
Great vid. I'm considering the GSA (or possibly the new 1290 Super Adventure). I've got the Triumph Explorer 1200 XC at the minute and love the engine. I've just had quite a bit of bad luck with it and want a change. I've noticed you gear up on a few overtakes you make. Does the bike run out of puff early like the older engined one? I hated the old air cooled boxer engine and note you talk about power band being different on this one. What's your view on overtaking and the bike being in the right power band for that on UK roads? Keep up the vlogging, great watch. Cheers.
Hi Rob thanks for the view and great comment. This new lc version is bonkers, it revs right through pulling hard all the way, but because its a toque monster I just use that hence the changes. I had the 2010 air cooled version and this one just out performs that in everyway, it just revs straight through to the limiter. I test road the KTM, but it did not compare the GS lc, (in my opinion) the GSA would have been my main choice but funds did not allow it, try and get a test ride on the new LC version, it such a better engine, thanks again and ride safe my friend.
Cheers, well you must have liked them to get two. I have a R6 as well as the VFR and I think the revy 2 stroke o'n it all the time nature of the R6' has made me want to go the other way with some torque ;-) Have you done a clip with your new Africa twin? Ta Richard
Yes mate, I've got 3 videos up on this channel, episode 1 talk, Episode 2 Road and Episode 3 light off road. The AT has more low down torque that the GS and is as smooth as an inline 4
looks good ,they are very popular on the European tours ,might have to try one very soon ,Tiger Sport not that sporty I think its just a badge !!!!! not a quick bike gear ratios are all f****ed up .
hi Eric thanks for the view and great comment, i do appreciate, they do seem popular as you say but I guess this is because they do exactly as BMW wanted them to, i do love mine still, it does hooligan and touring perfectly.
Thanks for another video SP. Perhaps you can answer this question ; why is it that when we get a bike everything about it is so wonderful ie its so comfortable great in traffic etc etc and we step back to look at it and see gleaming stars are bouncing off of it and then some months or perhaps a year it suddenly loses its appeal and others look far more attractive. Would you believe that an extreme of this is that a mate of mine as owned 32 bikes since 2009. Oh and of cause when you do decide you want another bike SWMBO reminds you that you said " don't worry love this really is the one ".If you can answer that one then you really are clever.
+john smith I know the feeling albeit it's not quite as bad as 32 bikes since 09 that's brilliant, I had an heart attack so had to let this GS go at the time, I still loved that bike, I got an MT09 then to get me back on the road.... and then Honda announced the Africa Twin, wow I am so glad hey did i prefer this over the GS both bike and cost, and that's a bold statement as the GS was fantastic.
I had to sell it 2 years ago now, I had a bit of a life drama :( I could not fault the bike, and still have no bad things to say about it. I've now got the New Africa Twin and like this bike just as much, maybe a little better to be honest.
Hi Surf Pilot, thanks for the really great video. I will shortly be in the market for a bike and really do like the R1200GS, as a bit of a novice would you recommend it for a 46 year old who hasn't rode for the at least 15 years? I used to have a YZF750R which I bought just after passing my test and scared myself half to death on and soon parted with. I'm 100% more sensible now and would love to do some touring. Any advice would be greatfully accepted? Keep up the great work from a fellow Yorkshireman, by the way Subbed
Hi Peter, first of all thank you for the great comment and taking the time to view. I would absolutely recommend this bike, although it does rev straight to the limit it more about the torque so rides really easy, the seating position and high big handlebars make it easy to control. It does fast if you want it to, but its more about low revs short shifting and eating up the miles in absolute comfort, it has several engine modes to chose from a press of a switch to keep you safe and wheels firmly on the road. the twin cylinder feels so very different to the inline 4's but give it a chance and it will reward you with thousands of comfortable safe miles. I too am 46 and recently went around Scotland in 3 days riding back from Aviemore to yorkshire in one go in absolute comfort and ready for more. Let me know how you get on my friend (there is also an 800GS) if you fancied something smaller, but for me the 1200 is perfect.
Hi Max, thanks for the view and great comment, you are right there to be fair. I'm 5'10 and 98kgs and have no problem touching the ground with the standard seat on the low position.
Hi Neil, you're not wrong my friend i could never afford one out right, but BMW do an options type deal where you can have one for in my case less per month than i was paying for a cbr on finance, but you are right mate you need the free cash every month. appreciate the view and comment.
Hi SurfPilot, I had mine for 10 days now and already noticed 4 problems, or I am just too fussy? - shaking speedometer when trying to keep steady speed, somewhere between 75 and 80 mph (I will probably post a video) - some silent ringing from the front when accelerating (between 1500 and 3000 revs) - some squeaking from the front on the potholes/road bumps (not all the time) - gearshift assist doesn't work very well when shifting down
hi there, i would be tempted to tske it back to the shop and get it checked out, i have not experienced any of those problems. i dont have gearshift assist on mine, but on bikes i have had it on, i've never used it for downshifts just speedy upshifts, it just seems too aggressive on the gearbox for changing down more so on a twin, hope you get it sorted mate
***** Thanks for the response. I asked the service and here was the reply: "we have to experience it ourself". I wonder what if mechanic is a bit deaf? ;) I have 600 miles service next Thursday so will see what comes. About downshifting, blipping the throttle can work well, but you are most likely right and it's better to do it traditional way so clutch and blipping. I would like to sort everything out and really enjoy the ride. Have you thought about Acrapovic on yours?
Patri kos hi there sorry for the delay i have been a bit unwell, the 2 things i wished had got on mine are the shift assist and the acra they do sound a lot better, i hope you have got the problems sorted my friend.
Why u accelerate hard and than brake? Anyway, its a realy nice bike! I have the the KTM 1290 SA (please dont hit me with your baseballbat) Thanks for the review, it gives me a kind of BMW perspective. Like this bike. Keep reviewing, and ride save. Geetings from Germany.
+Tobias Schmidt Hi there Tobias my friend, I kept braking to keep the speed down, not that I was speeding of course but just in case :) I have just ordered a CRF100L Africa Twin I pick that up on March 1st, I hope this is as good as it feels. Thanks for the view and more importantly the comment it made me smile, ride safe my friend..
Now then, how's the grand kids 😂 that's the trouble with getting older, it feels like your going fast 😂 I thought you got these free with ya bus pass😂 Ride safe!!
Stan the man, how you doing matey. You're not too wrong, GS and Triumphs old men bikes ;), and they never sent the bus pass, so I went and bought an Africa Twin, young mans adventure bike :D
antonoat I know mate I did think afterwards I was glad I was not closer to the bend, some people have no concept how crossing the line on a blind bend could end up with someone's life being ended. serious scary stuff. I really did keep it calm really, normally I'm waving my arms and swearing like a loon lol.
Hey William thanks for the comment and your expert opinion but most importantly the view, I truly do appreciate advice from advanced motorcycle riders like you. I sincerely hope you have a brilliant day.
![R1200GS / R1250GS | Complete Buyer's Guide [2005-2020]](/img/n.gif)
The 'modes' change when you engage the clutch. The idea is that you set the mode as you see conditions change up ahead, you are running down a paved road, for example, and you see a dirt road coming up, or on the navigator screen or you know the area. You press the mode button a few times to the mode you need. In the mean time you stay in the mode you were in, because you haven't changed your driving needs yet. As soon as you engage the clutch it changes into the new mode instantly. The modes really just vary the safety equipment, like ABS and throttle control so you have more chance of staying upright. Turning the modes to 'Enduro Pro', for example, pretty much shuts off all the safety defaults so you can ride like a Real Man, as we all did back it the '70s when we were kids. No techno safety net, just guts and knowhow and learning the hard way with many injuries that were all part of the deal of riding in the woods and rocks, no helmet or fancy boots, just a stripped down bike and shorts, and it was worth it!. Those were the days, before everything had to 'protect you from hurting yourself', because you have no clue how to ride a motorcycle. Anyway, I am 55 years old and still push the bike pretty hard and this bike gets the job done and then some. If you go off road, I suggest you understand that this beast is heavy, and it carves a rut in the soft ground that can bring you down if you're not in good shape and are too timid. Intuition tells you to slow down because you can feel the weight and your mind does the 'math'. But in most cases, assuming you have the proper tires, you're better off using the torque this thing has, lifting the front up a bit and riding through the rough. But again, you better be in pretty good shape and have confidence in holding the line or you may get a rude awakening. Then you have to pick this thing up, and when it's muddy and on a steep incline, you're going to have to earn it. This is a great bike, but it's a heavy bike, and that weight as it's advantages, on the highway, and it disadvantages, in soft ground and when you drop it. But It is a Man's Machine. Go hard, or go home.
P.S. The shift assist both up and down is beautiful!
Nice and honest appraisal from an owner. Big difference to a bike reviewer who doesn't want to upset the manufacturer. Am currently looking at the adventure bike market purely for the comfortable riding position. Test rode the new R1200R just for the engine while in Portugal but it's a naked which is not for me. The dealer didn't have a GS or RT for testing. Looking forward to a test ride when I get back to the UK. Keep the reviews coming as you are doing a good job and your comments are worth a lot more than most professional reviewers. As I said earlier, (honest). Thank you
Trevor Herrington Hi Trevor, you're more than very welcome, Thank you ever so much for a brilliant comment I truly do appreciate you taking the time to do respond, it's nice to know that someone is getting something from my videos. I like the R1200R but I'm not a fan of the naked style either, the new R1200RS looks amazing and I really could be tempted onto one of these, the 1200GS engine in a S1000RR style bike. Thanks again Trevor for the view and response, as said I truly do appreciate it my friend.
I'm in the process of picking between 3 different bikes, 2 of them BMW's. This real world, honest review just sold me this one. Thank you ! Doug
Hi Doug, thank you my fiend for the view and brilliant comment I really do appreciate it. I always struggle for real down to earth real person reviews so thought I would do a couple on this what I still think is a perfect bike, the only down side was the price, but now when you compare it to the multistrada and even the new Honda its actually a great buy, with great second hand value. I hope you get sorted mate, thanks again and ride safe my friend.
I have to say that this video is of excellent quality, it is great to watch, there is no useless special effects show, no music you wouldn't want your worst enemy to be submitted to; just - so it appears to me - honest good reporting. It also whetted my appetite for driving one myself, as I am likely to at the end of October. Drive safe (and have fun)
Thanks for the video. That BMW GS looks to be amazing. I lived in Yorkshire for awhile back in the 90s. Love the accent. It brings back memories.
Hi Steven thank you for the view and brilliant comment my friend I really appreciate it, yeah the Yorkshire accent is a bit of love it or hate it, Yorkshire misses you mate.
Did a test ride today and fully agree with all of your comments. What a brilliant bike. Thanks for the video.
Sky Rider love the name mate, your more than welcome, thanks for the great comment I do appreciate you taking the time to view it.
My words exactly, except in an English accent. 6k on my new GS and I'm loving it ! So sad my season is pretty much over. It's definitely hard not to give 'er the beans regularly. I'm thinking of changing out the windscreen next year, the Missenden Flyer fitted a more " useable " one his GS. Anyway, new sub. Thanks for the effort ! Look forward to more !
Hi mate thanks for the view and great comment, English accent had me chuckling to myself. I've not been well so not been out recently, i will check out that screen too. again my i friend appreciate the comment and the sub.
I just traded my BMW K1300S in (after 9 years on it) for this 2014 model with low milage. Absolutely love it. It's totally different, but as you said, it ticks all the boxes, and it really does! Cheers!
I have the Honda Africa Twin now, it's no GS, just lots cheaper, glad you're enjoying the bike my friend.
Love the slight road rage at 4:45, LOL. Great bike and great review.
Great review.....Down to earth, funny at times and truthful...... Looking forward to getting my first GS....I'm from Malta (married to a Yorkshire lass)....Might be coming over to the UK to get a used one.... Can't wait.....Will definitely get the Satnav....heard great things about it and saw a great review on TH-cam.
Well after watching your videos, you could almost be me ! I have one, a 2013 TE same colour, same wheels same foglights and I live in Yorkshire. Mine is my first GS after having a Fazer 1000, a VFR 800 and a Suzuki 1000 V Twin. Like you say the GS is just a fun bike to ride. I tell people, forget the "Adventure" tag, ride one. I have just done a 2700 mile Europe trip including France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and back into France, all in 9 days and it was just great. Some of the trip out of necessity was on the Peage and the cruise control was a truly useful feature.
I have the Navigator 5 on mine. I wouldn't have bought it but the as I bought it used, it came with one on and That also has some great features that I would miss if I didn't have it now.What I think needs emphasizing is just how good this bike is down twisty roads with its unique suspension.Mine has surprised quite a few sports bike riders.
So yes, thanks for the videos, I enjoyed watching them.
Hi Andrew my friend, yeah i think me may be the unknown Yorkshire twins.
I agree with you 100% a well ridden GS will out perform and average ridden sports bike and all in comfort, I'll keep my eyes peeled for you, sorry for the delay in responding i've been off line for a while, but i really do appreciate the view and brilliant comment, ride safe my friend.
Thanks for this review; I wish other reviews were as enjoyable and as useful as yours. Great practical info, opinions and a sense of humour to boot. Hope you continue to enjoy your awesome bike and please update if you have a chance. Ride safe!
Hi Diddley wow! thanks for the brilliant comment my friend I really do appreciate it a lot. i have been a little under the weather but i will definately update. Thanks again buddy.
My Dream Bike.
Good review dude. Thanks for posting. Gotta love that northern accent.
Hey man thank you ever so much for the brilliant comment, I can't describe how great it is for people to watch then take the time to comment so thank you, yeah the northern accent is a bit like or dislike, so thank you buddy.
Just subscribed. Thanks also for the honest reviews. I ordered a new GS last week and am in that state of anxiety while waiting for it to arrive, wondering if I've done the right thing. Your reviews have put that to rest. Swapping a nearly new Street Triple R which I love, but reckon I'll get much more out of the GS. Was also a bit worried about the 'old man stigma' but will happily brush that off (I'm not old). I also like your high-vis stickers. I've ordered the black metallic version and reckon they'll suit it well so may do something similar. Keep up the good work. Cheers
Hi Marcus, thanks for the sub and great comment my friend, I really do appreciate it. I'm stoked for you this bike really does not have any boundaries, it really is about giving it a chance. I love mine, I love where it takes me, I love how sport bikes come tearing past to prove a point only for me to pass them in comfort a few miles down the road :) I would tell everybody to go for the hi vis on the beak it really does make the bike pop and get you seen. enjoy it mate and let us know how you get on.
Great stuff and thanks for the dash walk around that will help me tomorrow when i have my test ride on one of these babies.
Cheers mate, I'm interetsed to know how you got on with it.
Thanks for posting . I'm looking to buy one for touring next year must admit the size is a bit intimidating but I have been assured they are great once you start riding. Must admit they look great
+MrRw59 they do only look big, actually could handle mine easier than any other bikes have owned, I even took this off road without any worries. you will be fine after the 1st 2 miles. thanks ever so much for the view and comment my friend.
Nice good video, had my s1200 the now for 18months love it, a few flaws has you have pointed out. But can't see me getting rid of it as it has all the good bits from every bike I've ridden and put it into this one fantastic machine. keep up the great reviews.
ThePlymouthbikers hey there my friend thank you for the great comment, and taking the time to view, I really do appreciate it. I am with you all the way on that, its just a great all rounder as you say all the good bits from very bike, nicely put. Thanks again mate and ride safe. Just subbed your channel too, I am in Cornwall 4or5 times year as my daughter lives in Newquay some great edits on your first video.
Excellent review, can tell you really love it. My 2013 is being delivered tomorrow :-)
+6r4metroman Hey there thank you very much for the view and great comment I really do appreciate it. I bet you can't wait, I was so anxious the day before I got mine, It's still the best bike I have owned for general messing about and touring around Scotland. Ride Safe My Friend.
Great review my friend. I've just bought a 2016 TE model. Can't wait to get some miles on the clock.
Great review! had mine about 3 months now and absolutely love it. Actually traded in a 3 week old repsol fireblade. It's just a different type of biking as you say, plan to do a lot of touring in Europe and think it's about perfect for that, did Spain and Italy on a fireblade years ago but fuck that! wouldn't even make it to Dover now.
Agreed with just about everything you say even about having a test ride and not really liking it that much, it is so different from a sportsbike, so happy I went for it though, like my speed too but I find on the GS it's not as important, sometimes a nice chilled ride on a good day is the just what you need
Keep it up mate
Hi Danny, thank you ever so much for the view and brilliant comment. so glad you took the leap too and gave it a chance, i did europe on a cbr6oo and know what your saying too funny man., you just need to strap a gopro on now mate, thanks again for the view and taking the time to comment.
It's funny how the same bike is perceived so differently in different countries. In UK, you say everyone thinks it's an old mans bike, in Australia it's perceived as an unreliable coffee shop bike, and in South Africa its perceived as the ultimate adventure tourer.
Would love to see the Scotland trip video!
johnnste1 Hi my friend thanks for the view and comment, you're absolutely right I guess it's down to peoples experiences with them, if mine had broke down a lot this video would not exist, but I have been lucky to have 2 now both problem free. My audio failed on my Scotland land trip and I am not a great lover of bike tour music videos, but I am putting something together, thank you ever so much for taking the time to comment.
Thanks for the reply. I am a Honda man and have owned a VFR for 13years ;-) however I've always hankered after a boxer engined GS since the 1100.
I do love the look of the Africa twin and loved the original one. I feel as though I have to scratch the GS itch.
Hey your welcome mate. I can't say a bad thing about the GS I have had 2 the air cooled and the LC, the LC was amazing with all the electronic toys you could hope for. I did 12hrs in the saddle all the way around the isle of Skye and back to Yorkshire in one go with ease. I know what them itches feel like mate, you'll have to scratch it :) all I can say is I prefer the Africa Twin, but maybe would have both if my numbers came up :D
brilliant review! Well done. Waiting to get a brand new one soon (R1200GS 2017)
Hey man thank you very much, I really do appreciate it, you will love it my friend, i wished i could get another :(
Every thing nicely explained great video
***** Hi Joe thanks for the great positive comment and the view, i really do appreciate it my friend.
Good info and great video. I would of loved to see different angles of the ride, I can't get enough of it, Ive seen almost all the videos on YT. I'll put some of mine when it arrives. Ive actually went for the adventure version after testing the standard GS. Mainly because of the tank range.
Hi my friend thanks for the view and great comment, and great to hear you've gone for the adventure version, look forward to seeing it. i should have really done some different angles good advice.
well done - by this time next week I'll have my 2012 BMS 1200GS - cant wait
good on you mate they are an amazing bike, I loved both of mine and can't say a bad word about them (well other then the price) but you do get what you pay for with the GS :) I've now got the New Africa Twin.
Yeah the $$! The new bike is out of my reach so I opted for a quality used r1200GS. Had it for 4 days now and put on about 150 miles riding in town and out in the country getting accustomed to the bike. I love it!
They are something special, torqey and comfortable, i could keep up with most everything on normal roads, i'm glad your loving it mate, ride safe buddy.
Great review. Thanks!
Hi Tom thanks for the view and great comment.
I'm just across in Huddersfield. Gimme a shout if you want to go for a run sometime.
Thanks for the video. I can tell you love this bike. I will be getting the 1200 soon stepping up from my F8. I now have a passenger and I know this bike will fit the bill for two up as well as much desired solo riding. Again, thx for the great video.
Leslie Sofarelli Hi Leslie, you're more than welcome, and thank you ever so much for taking the time to view and comment, you can hardly tell you're carrying passengers on this bike due to it's size and balance, a perfect step up from the F8 (I had one of those too) it means so much that you enjoyed my video and took something from it. Thank you so much and ride safe.
looking forward to the larger CC's and having a passenger once in a while lol ...love your sense of humor. Hey, when some in France curses what do they say? Pardon my English? ;-)
Leslie Sofarelli You so very nearly got it, but its when us polite English curse we say "pardon my French" I find myself saying that a lot, lol
***** we say pardon my French here too lol
Getting my 1200 tomorrow 👍
great review, I'm hoping to pick one up next year.
Dali113 Hi Dali sorry for the delay thank you for the view and brilliant comment I do hope you get to own one soon my friend
Great review thanks, had a 2010 Adventure think I will def try one
+chris bolwell Hi Mate thanks for the view and comment, I do appreciate it yeah the new LC version is far better bike than the 2010 I too had a 2010 (GS) I really love the adventure but have never took the plunge
it's bloody quick that! Cracking review matey!
Hey man thanks for stopping by and the great messages, i really do appreciate it mate.
Excellent review mate :)
Thanks my friend I know it's aimed at GS owners or buyers a bit so I appreciate the comment.
A review as good as that will probably tempt a few people to try one where they hadn't considered it before mate, really good review :)
Great review, thank you.
you're more than welcome, and thank you for the view and great comment i do really appreciate comments like this.
Nice video, and you’re right about the first ride experience. I own the RR and at first i didn’t like the GS at all (’11. model). Too big, too heavy, too soft, clunky gearbox... However I’m attracted to the Idea of traveling on a bike more and more. Getting old I suppose :) I do travel on my RR but to be honest, while I enjoy fast curvy roads everything over 350 km a day is a pain. I think the RR may become a track only bike in the future.
Thank you my friend, I really appreciate the comment, I had a yellow RR what a bike really capable and loads of fun but your right when you get to touring mileage it can be too much, thats the reason i got the GS and after getting used to it, i love it i have done 12hours in the saddle and over 500km days in absolute comfort, and seriously had loads of fun hooning around hung off it too. thanks again man.
looool!! Your video cracked me up!! You're a funny man lol... Thank you for the review! This is my dream bike and you just confirmed that I should get one :-) Cheers to you Surf Pilot... #Hero
Hi there skyblu, thanks so much for the view and brilliant comment, i really do appreciate my friend. I would suggest everyone at some point has a play on one of these and hang off it like a loon :-) thanks again buddy made my day this comment.
Great review mate ! I've got a 12 plate gsa that I'm chuffed to bits with but after seeing your video the wife's barred me from going anywhere near Rainbow !!! (I'm liking the extras) Are you local to Selby ? I'm just up the road in Thorne. Recognised the roads.
+duncan buckley Selby in Yorkshire? I stayed there once, '74? spent a night in the Mill House. The roads don't seem to have changed much around there.
+duncan buckley Hi Matey yeah I'm from Castleford but head over that way on ride outs either short squirts or heading to the east coast. I've now got the New Africa Twin, I'm going to do a viddy of that soon, I loved and miss my GS, saying that I'm still in the I love my Africa Twin stage at the minute :)
Forgot to ask do the handlebars fit you ok. I had to put risers on my Vstrom 650 much better I'm 5' 11" 220 lbs. Awesome video, keep them coming cant wait to see your 6 month review!
hi again my friend, the handlebars adjust (tilt forwards) with ease to riase them i did this so that they were more comfy when stood on the pegs, thanks again i appreciate the great comments:
Great clip. Good old Yorkshire man, saying it like it is. 'Rev for England' lol I want one even more now ;-)
Hey up mate :-) it's a brilliant bike but I have just got the Africa Twin and being honest i prefer it, a fair bit cheaper too, thanks for stopping by my friend i appreciate it
Stigma ? Unfortunately we have a bad habit in the U.K. of jealousy and stereotyping people where bikes and cars are concerned , I’ve had every bike imaginable, including Harley’s and BM’s (including GS’s ) loved them all 👌🏻😎 nice review 👍🏻
Great video keep em coming lad 👍 iv been on a Harley Heritage for years and just bought a 2016 RT Iconic number 11 love it but the GS looks nice 😉 maybe one day 😊
Enjoyed your video. Also noted the excellent sound quality during your vlog...would you please share set up namely, external microphone brand and make as well we overall set up process. Thanks, Al from Canada!
Hi there Al thanks for stopping by me friend and picking up on the audio, I spent some time getting it right. Its really is just a cheapish lapel mic of eBay about £9, but then I use dead cat (fur mic cover) also from eBay over the mic and foam. This is then where the real weird part comes in, I use a piece of dense foam from the cup of a women's bra (seriously) between the dead cat and chin part of the helmet to dampen the voice and not over distort. The mic is then directly in front of your mouth and not buried behind the foam cheek liner to the left or right as most do. No wind noise and nearly perfect audio on the cheap. Hope this helps and makes sense.
Thanks...will give it a try this coming spring. As always, safe driving!
cheers for this buddy; really helped in making my mind up and this will be my next bike! I'm looking at a 15 plate which doesn't seem to have the same gear such as LED lighting, I guess these were added later?
Hi there, thank you very much for taking the time to view and the great comment. I thought LED headlamps were fitted to bikes from 2014 unless they were model specific, I'm certain the TE version did, from 2015 I thought all did unless it was an option. The LED aux lights were definitely an option on all GS's so maybe not specked by the purchaser. I know you'll love it my friend ride safe...
Great review, I have just brought one I must admit I am not keen on fours but love twins, I agree its a fun bike told to ride one by severial friends (expensive mistake listening to them lol) . I managed to get a satnav on Ebay less than half the price of the dealers
I never got the sat nav, but wished i did, a friend had it on his and it did all sorts of col things. I hope you're enjoying it mate
Watched this and your Tracer vids so far. Like the way you review the bikes. I'd love a GS but for my use I think a Tracer is the sensible option. Was that Monk Fryston? Not far from here, Kelfield
+hudsonrilke Hi Mate really sorry for the delay in answering it never showed in my feed, and thanks ever so much for all the views and comments, yeah that is Monk Fryston I had been through Fairburn and Squires I'm guessing your local.
Excellent video, I really enjoyed it. Were you serious when you said 60 to the gallon, was that 60mpg?
I don't have a bike at the moment, I had two r1100gs's I put over 40,00 on each of them, loved them to bits, I imagine this is a similar concept just massively improved where it counts?
all the best, ride safe
tony
cheers
antonoat Hi Tony, thanks ever so much for the brilliant comment I really do appreciate it my friend, yes I was clearing 60mpg, there is a live view feed in the display of current mpg, to help you ride like a tight arse lol. I had the older 1200gs 2010 version before this, but the new lc model really is perfection, other than the price of course, thanks again for the view and taking the time to comment, ride safe too my friend.
Great Review, but I do hope these blokes realize that they're riding on the wrong side of the road ??
+BeaglePower G haven't you got the picture inverter on your comp? works a treat
Great vids on the new GS. May I ask what that is on your tank?
Hi my friend, thanks for the views and great comment, its a small bottle of visor cleaner stuck on with sticky velcro. I put it there so it was easy to use on the move for scotland trip, thanks again appreciate it mate.
That makes sense. Thanks for the reply bud.
brillant video what I wanted to see about a GS I'm looking at getting one what year is yours ?
i enjoyed that mate
Hi Jim thanks very much for the view and great comment mate, I really do appreciate it.
More vids please!
hi my friend i've a bit unwell but more in the pipeline. thanks for the view and brilliant comment
Get well soon pal.
Great vid, I want to upgrade my 2007 GS now 😱
hi dervman thanks for the view and comment, yeah i had a 2010 version and this new lc version is such a better bike, i loved my older one too. thanks again i do apprecaite the great comment.
They're not too bad are they. I've just got a new en. Had a few before over the last 4 years after various other bikes. Where in Yorks are you based then?
***** hi mate, they really are a great bike, I know a lot don't get them, but I have done the sports bike thing to the point I stopped enjoying riding. it was all about how quickly I could get somewhere and then thinking I was lucky to get home. since having the GS's I have started to love the ride, the thing I passed my bike test for, I'm from well near Wakefield mate. Thanks for the view and taking the time to comment.
Bloody good vid mate, got my fourth GSA coming on 1st March, having had a K1600 for 2 years in-between.. liked the K but the GSA just has soul.. you sound just like me when riding but I've got a staffs twang lol.. Get out up around Yorkshire quite a bit in summer as I've got family in Harrogate... Keep up the good work.. are you still enjoying it?
Hey man thanks ever so much for the view and great comment, I so wished I had gone for GSA, I know exactly what you say about it having soul. I love the bike having had a 2010 version the new lc does feel better, for me I guess its the perfect do it all bike and it was so at home around Scotland, I still review my pics and vids today lol, hey my friend thanks again for taking the time o comment and view. Do you vlog? I will check your channel out that would be the quick way to find out lol, but if not strap a cam we need more GS vloggers :-)
***** Sorry bud, no volging here and I'm not on Twatface either lol. We are off to Norway in August with White Rose Tours, can't wait for that one, wanted to got there for ages.. Will take plenty of pics tho.. Are you all recovered now, just been reading the other comments and sounds like you have had a rough time of it!!
Hi my friend, I joined twitter and that's about all I did i don't get on with I too well lol, I am so much better mate to be honest better than I was in some ways another month will see me back to full health, thanks ever so much for asking, it came totally out of the blue no warnings just Bam.. hey I here the White Rose do some great stuff, so that should be great adventure, definitely worth sharing the pics 😊
What do you think of the F800R ?
+fish and banana hi there I'm so sorry for the delay i guess you got sorted by now, i have never ridden the 800GS so i cant say I guess it is a lighter version of this and should be pretty good a few videos on here and the owners love them.
Hi Surf Pilot great review seems a cracking bike, I'm ready for change from my K1200s (08) but only a budget for 2011 at most, would you say your new bike is massively superior to the old one or actually a good place to start ?
Hi Graham thanks for taking the time to view and commenting i do appreciate it. I cant pretend this new version is not a better bike, but I had the 2010 version and they are not a million miles apart, and being honest I had as much fun on that as this one, I would without doubt say that the previous vesion is more than a great place to start.
Nice fluo stickers on front, where did you get them??
+1mikaax Hi mate sorry for the delay, bough a sheet off ebay and then cut it to shape myself, pretty easy to DIY. Thanks for the view and comment my friend.
Hello SP
I pick up a TE on saturday, storm black.
A few concerns about filtering, what with the width. Any issues or experience, good or bad?
Really excited, and am hoping that this may be the bike I stay with in my advancing years!
Your reviews are fab. A touch of northern humour and very straightforward.
Cheers
Hey man thank you ever so much for the brilliant comment, and good on you man, you will love it the more you ride it. I had no problems filtering, to be honest I found it easier than my cbr6. The high upright position gives you a great view ahead looking for gaps and the leverage you get from the bars makes it easy to move. I worried about the width too, but once on board you find in truth its not much wider than other bikes, and another plus I found cars do move out of the way more, even BMW car drivers. Enjoy it my friend and let me know how you get on.
*****
Well, here we go.
I like it. I'm not in love with it, but I believe the bike will get a lot more use than the S1000rr.
The sat nav is superb. The seat is not as comfy as I had imagined, although I did work this out on my demo ride. It seems to dig in to the inner thigh. Maybe because I'm carrying a few 'holiday pounds'. From Christmas 2013.
Ride seems a little snatchy on the first part of the throttle. Needs a bit of clutch fed in to smooth it out.
Pillion is a great success. Mrs loves it, and the top box back rest.
I've had a few comments that it looks like I'me delivering pizza, and that it's very grown up (old man).
Steering lock means it is actually easier to get into the garage than the sports bike. Otherwise big and heavy.
It is also nice to be able to go to the shops for beer, put your lid on the top box, and the beer in for transport home.
I reckon they could make it almost perfect, with some tinkering. Bars are about 200mm too wide, and it doesn't float over the bumps like the KTM.
Think I shall sign up for some live traffic etc, and start using it for the commute. Then France beckons!!
Tally ho...
grumble1968 Hi mate great write up, I found it snatch at first but I put that own to fly by wire throttle, I just put it in rain mode and that smoothed it out perfectly. I played around with the angle of the bars to better suit me too.
I had a s1000rr too in yellow, I got so many grown up comments too, but as you say I found myself using the g's for everything, I wished now I had gone or the box.
Glad to hear you got one md hope you can find love somewhere down the road. Ride safe my friend
***** Hey Mr SP!
I believe I may be developing a modicum of love for the GS. I do wish the bars were a tad narrower though.
Does yours make a slight ticking / clacking noise at low speeds and tickover? Almost like a tappet noise?
I also think I'm suffering from either road noise or wind noise from the screen. A bit of a drone. I shall monitor and hope it's my huge imagination.
I must say with the nicer weather I feel way more inclined to just 'pop out' on it than the previous bikes. I wonder if you can ever get so accustomed to the size that they start to feel like you can chuck them about? How are you currently getting on with yours? Any must have additions or adjustments?
The seat is still not comfy. My fat legs.
grumble1968 hi mate great to hear, I never got a ticking noise at low speed, I did have to play with the screen to get the screen just perfect for wind noise, but not really a drone, I have the Arai tour4 and that is a bit of a noisy lid.
The size will soon feel perfect i sling mine about like a sport bike, and it feels more rewarding somehow, when you get used to putting your trust in the tc you really can unleash that torque at really impressive angles.
The bike is far more capable than your mind allows you to think it is. The soft suspension setting is comfy but removes the feel and feedback, in normal mode I really got the best out of it, I found hard too much,
The brakes are amazing you really can get it to stop quick rubbing loads of speed off before the bend the tip it in and let the tc handle a hand full on the way out, I know this sounds like an hooligan riding technique but it will blow our mind when you get used to it, just take your time and when you start to feel at one with it then try the limits it really is a super capable bike.
Honestly it will perform beyond your expectations, you really can hang off these things, I started riding enthusiastically with my toe stuck out to gauge the lean angle when it touched the road.
I know this makes me sound like an idiot, and 97% of my riding was nice easy touring, Sunday rides out, but when you do want to play with your mate on his gixxer it will let you ;-)
great video ! just wanted to ask were did you get the hi viz stickers for the front of
your bike ? can,t seem to find them any where ?
Hi Mate thanks for the view and great comment, I just bought a small length of hi vis decal off ebay I think it was a 1meter length x 800mm and cut it myself with a Stanley knife wrapping it under the beak really easy and very cheap :)
It revvs for England!
:D
Great vid.
+Gabriel Rd Cheers my friend I appreciate the view ad comment, I really don't know where I came up with that or why I said it :)
+Surf Pilot No worries mate.... I'm just researching my next bike and I'm pretty much sold on the 1200gs Adventure, in a large part thanks to honest reviews from real world owner/riders like yourself.
+Gabriel Rd you are more than very welcome, you won't be disappointed with the GS, albeit the new Honda Africa Twin looks nice, I have placed an order already :)
PS not everyone gets bored with a long video, lol
cheers
antonoat Hey man thank you very much for this comment, I know the length of a video often puts people off as there life's are too busy for my ramblings, so thank you.
Great review! Currently riding the F700gs and looking forward to upgrading to a 1200 gs in a few years time. Not sure about whether to go for the standard GS or the GSA.
Anti electrons hi there thanks very much for the View and comment, sorry for the delay, if i had the money i would have gone for the GSA just to say i had got the best version, and not because i needed one. but being honest the GS TE is perfect in everyway it really does it all.
***** Cheers, the GSA looks pretty good value when you consider the stock package and what is included... But it is pricey...Going to get a demo ride at some point on each to see how I feel, but reading your reviews and others on the web the GS with a couple of the packages thrown in does look to be pretty dam good. Has pretty much the same BHP and a lot more torque than my old RSV MIllle! Amazing.
Great Vid. I'm going to get one in the spring and was just wondering how good the windshield is stock. Do you get blown off the seat or is it tolerable? I,m getting older and that wind in my hair thing is over, especially since there isn't much left! Thanks
hi my friend thanks for the view and comment, the screen is perfect for me at 5'10" it adjust up for motorway work, and removes all wind buffeting, thanks again for the view.
Great vid. I'm considering the GSA (or possibly the new 1290 Super Adventure). I've got the Triumph Explorer 1200 XC at the minute and love the engine. I've just had quite a bit of bad luck with it and want a change. I've noticed you gear up on a few overtakes you make. Does the bike run out of puff early like the older engined one? I hated the old air cooled boxer engine and note you talk about power band being different on this one. What's your view on overtaking and the bike being in the right power band for that on UK roads? Keep up the vlogging, great watch. Cheers.
Hi Rob thanks for the view and great comment. This new lc version is bonkers, it revs right through pulling hard all the way, but because its a toque monster I just use that hence the changes. I had the 2010 air cooled version and this one just out performs that in everyway, it just revs straight through to the limiter.
I test road the KTM, but it did not compare the GS lc, (in my opinion) the GSA would have been my main choice but funds did not allow it, try and get a test ride on the new LC version, it such a better engine, thanks again and ride safe my friend.
Cheers buddy. That explains it perfectly thanks. I'll get myself down the dealership and go for a gentle pootle ;) Ride safe.
Cheers, well you must have liked them to get two. I have a R6 as well as the VFR and I think the revy 2 stroke o'n it all the time nature of the R6' has made me want to go the other way with some torque ;-)
Have you done a clip with your new Africa twin?
Ta
Richard
Yes mate, I've got 3 videos up on this channel, episode 1 talk, Episode 2 Road and Episode 3 light off road. The AT has more low down torque that the GS and is as smooth as an inline 4
looks good ,they are very popular on the European tours ,might have to try one very soon ,Tiger Sport not that sporty I think its just a badge !!!!! not a quick bike gear ratios are all f****ed up .
hi Eric thanks for the view and great comment, i do appreciate, they do seem popular as you say but I guess this is because they do exactly as BMW wanted them to, i do love mine still, it does hooligan and touring perfectly.
Thanks for another video SP. Perhaps you can answer this question ; why is it that when we get a bike everything about it is so wonderful ie its so comfortable great in traffic etc etc and we step back to look at it and see gleaming stars are bouncing off of it and then some months or perhaps a year it suddenly loses its appeal and others look far more attractive. Would you believe that an extreme of this is that a mate of mine as owned 32 bikes since 2009. Oh and of cause when you do decide you want another bike SWMBO reminds you that you said " don't worry love this really is the one ".If you can answer that one then you really are clever.
+john smith I know the feeling albeit it's not quite as bad as 32 bikes since 09 that's brilliant, I had an heart attack so had to let this GS go at the time, I still loved that bike, I got an MT09 then to get me back on the road.... and then Honda announced the Africa Twin, wow I am so glad hey did i prefer this over the GS both bike and cost, and that's a bold statement as the GS was fantastic.
any issues by now? still going strong?
I had to sell it 2 years ago now, I had a bit of a life drama :( I could not fault the bike, and still have no bad things to say about it. I've now got the New Africa Twin and like this bike just as much, maybe a little better to be honest.
Hi Surf Pilot, thanks for the really great video. I will shortly be in the market for a bike and really do like the R1200GS, as a bit of a novice would you recommend it for a 46 year old who hasn't rode for the at least 15 years? I used to have a YZF750R which I bought just after passing my test and scared myself half to death on and soon parted with. I'm 100% more sensible now and would love to do some touring. Any advice would be greatfully accepted? Keep up the great work from a fellow Yorkshireman, by the way Subbed
Hi Peter, first of all thank you for the great comment and taking the time to view. I would absolutely recommend this bike, although it does rev straight to the limit it more about the torque so rides really easy, the seating position and high big handlebars make it easy to control. It does fast if you want it to, but its more about low revs short shifting and eating up the miles in absolute comfort, it has several engine modes to chose from a press of a switch to keep you safe and wheels firmly on the road. the twin cylinder feels so very different to the inline 4's but give it a chance and it will reward you with thousands of comfortable safe miles. I too am 46 and recently went around Scotland in 3 days riding back from Aviemore to yorkshire in one go in absolute comfort and ready for more. Let me know how you get on my friend (there is also an 800GS) if you fancied something smaller, but for me the 1200 is perfect.
*****
Thanks SP, can't wait to get back on two wheels now ;-) Keep up the great videos
New sub ☺️
thank you very much i appreciate it :-)
Where did you get hi viz sticker for 1200gs 2014
Good video - unfortunately it makes we want to have one more and more!
Hi Nick thanks for the view and great comment, it is great bike just get saving up :-) and you'll get there.
nice video, thanks. wish more vloggers would say their height and weight though.
Hi Max, thanks for the view and great comment, you are right there to be fair. I'm 5'10 and 98kgs and have no problem touching the ground with the standard seat on the low position.
I would love one!! But there not cheap!
Hi Neil, you're not wrong my friend i could never afford one out right, but BMW do an options type deal where you can have one for in my case less per month than i was paying for a cbr on finance, but you are right mate you need the free cash every month. appreciate the view and comment.
good vid man
I don´t know how fast an sporty bike is but my R1200GS LC is more than I handel ;-)
hey man cheers, I appreciate the view and brilliant comment. I agree with you mate the gs12lc is all things and more than capable.
Hi just about to buy one of these ...has the bike been 100% reliable have you had any faults/mechanical issues with the bike ...thanks mark
100% mate, and given i have even been off road on it, i simply can not fault it, even if i tried, thanks very much for the view and comment my friend.
Hi SurfPilot,
I had mine for 10 days now and already noticed 4 problems, or I am just too fussy?
- shaking speedometer when trying to keep steady speed, somewhere between 75 and 80 mph (I will probably post a video)
- some silent ringing from the front when accelerating (between 1500 and 3000 revs)
- some squeaking from the front on the potholes/road bumps (not all the time)
- gearshift assist doesn't work very well when shifting down
hi there, i would be tempted to tske it back to the shop and get it checked out, i have not experienced any of those problems. i dont have gearshift assist on mine, but on bikes i have had it on, i've never used it for downshifts just speedy upshifts, it just seems too aggressive on the gearbox for changing down more so on a twin, hope you get it sorted mate
***** Thanks for the response.
I asked the service and here was the reply: "we have to experience it ourself". I wonder what if mechanic is a bit deaf? ;)
I have 600 miles service next Thursday so will see what comes.
About downshifting, blipping the throttle can work well, but you are most likely right and it's better to do it traditional way so clutch and blipping.
I would like to sort everything out and really enjoy the ride.
Have you thought about Acrapovic on yours?
Patri kos hi there sorry for the delay i have been a bit unwell, the 2 things i wished had got on mine are the shift assist and the acra they do sound a lot better, i hope you have got the problems sorted my friend.
Why u accelerate hard and than brake? Anyway, its a realy nice bike! I have the the KTM 1290 SA (please dont hit me with your baseballbat) Thanks for the review, it gives me a kind of BMW perspective. Like this bike. Keep reviewing, and ride save. Geetings from Germany.
+Tobias Schmidt Hi there Tobias my friend, I kept braking to keep the speed down, not that I was speeding of course but just in case :) I have just ordered a CRF100L Africa Twin I pick that up on March 1st, I hope this is as good as it feels. Thanks for the view and more importantly the comment it made me smile, ride safe my friend..
Now then, how's the grand kids 😂 that's the trouble with getting older, it feels like your going fast 😂
I thought you got these free with ya bus pass😂
Ride safe!!
Stan the man, how you doing matey. You're not too wrong, GS and Triumphs old men bikes ;), and they never sent the bus pass, so I went and bought an Africa Twin, young mans adventure bike :D
+Surf Pilot I'll check out your review on that one then 👍
Major D'head at 58sec!
What's wrong with these people, can they see the white lines?
Thought you remained quite calm, lol.
antonoat I know mate I did think afterwards I was glad I was not closer to the bend, some people have no concept how crossing the line on a blind bend could end up with someone's life being ended. serious scary stuff. I really did keep it calm really, normally I'm waving my arms and swearing like a loon lol.
Lol, hopefully the idiot realised the error of their ways!
Keep riding like that and the end is nigh.
Hey William thanks for the comment and your expert opinion but most importantly the view, I truly do appreciate advice from advanced motorcycle riders like you. I sincerely hope you have a brilliant day.