BMW R1200R Ride Review
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 มี.ค. 2016
- BMW R1200 R Test ride review.
I finally got my grubby hands on the R1200R, so here I am giving it a solid test ride.
NB. Pinch of salt warnings:
1. This bike has a quick shifter called 'Shift Assistant Pro'. Cost is about 200 Euro extra. I waffled on about the DCT transmission, but that's not an option with this bike so I've cut it all out! Utter nonsense!
3. If it isn't essential to the running of the bike, assume it's an extra!!
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Great review, I bought the same bike 4 months ago and and have 5,600 miles on it so far and absolutely love it!
+PistolPete63 That's great to hear, thanks Pete! Nothing like hearing that my rushed sort term observations have some truth to them! I'm sure you're having a fabulous time on that beauty. Cheers!!
just now finding this bike, this review Thank you Andy Man and your awesome Cam - just in time i'm hoping to buy my next last bike this year 2018 and this is the clear leader in the clubhouse
Cheers! It will be a very solid contender. Awesome bike.
At last. A decent video with sensible comments. Thanks man.
+Steve Bennett Cheers Steve!
I know I'm tad late watching this 4 years late but good informative & fun review on a bike I've owned for just 4 weeks. Spot on with your observations in such a short period of time. Thank you!
Thanks very much! Good to hear that i was going in the right direction, and all in such a short time! Cheers! Awesome bike by the way. Still one of my favorites up til now. 👍🏻
3 months in, do you still like it? I'm considering buying one - used, 2015.
@@boilerdam 100% Really really impressed. Nice torque, low down weight so you really don't notice it, handles like a dream once you get used to it and comfy! Pretty good on MPG too.
Once you have that keyless ride (GS) there's no wanting to go back. Hang on. When I ride my Kwakasaki now I'm forever going back to get the key. Same with the GPS and the wurly knob, changing music tracks, zooming in and out of the map, skipping waypoints, phone and tyre pressures it's the dogs danglies but as you say cost a good few bob. Don't reckon much on the shin ding on the starboard pot, and most of the bike out of the GS parts bin, test rode one and yours is a spot on cracking review. Nice one.
+Steve Kennett Cheers Steve, that's good to hear! Even in 2 hours i could feel myself trying to justify the money für keyless start. It is a great faff eliminator! I think I'd take more convincing with the rubber ring though. I prefer the d-pad affair that the KTM's have. Cheers mate!
Nice Bike. Thanks for the great Review. Keep having fun.
+Idaho Rider My pleasure IR. Thanks for stopping in. Ride safe yourself mate.
She's a beauty. Great review, Andy.
+BigRedYeti Cheers BRY. She really is. Very very nice machine. Possibly top of my wishlist right now.
I have this bike with all options ticked by the previous owner. It’s a fantastic bike. I had the F800R before. I love all the luxurious options the bike has, center stand, luggage rack, and all electronic assistants and gadgets. I’m very happy the speedometer is analogue though.
I removed the windscreen bc the airflow hit my neck which was uncomfortable. I like the even airflow on the full naked bike more.
I installed Bar risers, grip puppies and a phone cradle in the BMW navigator holder. It’s a fantastic bike and we did a lot of adventures so far!
Ah, extras ordered by the first owner are music to my ears!! It is a great bike and I’m not surprised you’re loving it!
I have a F800R, and watch the video read your comments, my desire is even worse now.
really enjoyed your review and had a great laugh also. had the pleasure to ride this bike for a day. the cylinders are a real pain in the shin but you forgive them immediately when twisting the throttle! I thought the gas mileage was amazing too. I averaged under 5l/100km and didnt go easy on it..
+Tom Weg Thanks Tom! You had the exact same experience as me then! Fabulous bike with a gem of a motor. I'd gladly endure the bruised shins!
Cheers Andy, as always.
+addictedtopiano My pleasure, entirely! :D
Thanks for a great review....
I'm very close to purchasing one....drooled over BMW's for many years but never had one....
Wondering about the higher windscreen option....have had several 'screens over the years and they usually end up as a compromise....
Interesting to read that the power and torque are almost the same as Honda's 1200 V4 Crosstourer.....a great trailie but very top heavy....
+En3usiast My pleasure! They are very drool worthy. It's easy to forget just how much torque twins throw out over 4's. This bike felt extremely light and easy to handle.
Excellent commentary!
+Nick Heinz Thanks Nick! Helped along in no small part by a really great bike!
Good review , they are a great all round bike with lots of speed , comfort & handling , like u said u can live without some of the extras which is what I did , but there is some good ones to add on such as gear shift assist , ESA suspension & heated grips for the cold weather , those add ons will add to the value of the bike later , led indicators also tidy up the clean lines to the bike , I didnt get the keyless ride I prefer to have the key where I can see it , it's not a big job putting it in and turning it lol
+montha123 Haha! So true! I'd always be worried about dropping the key and not knowing til I'm a tank of fuel away! Though the lack of faff is pleasant. In any case, fabulous bike. Enjoy yours you smug sod! 😉
Nice review Andy, I have been a BMW flattwin fan for many years, you will get used to the twin layout and save your shins. Looking at your great travelling videos and the fact that you mentioned you are quite tall, I believe the GS/ GSA would suit you better...but I did a eurotrips on the R too many years ago, its the most agile boxer, even more than the GS imo, great for riding the Alps or Pyrenees, in the end any bike works. The only thing is, the mountains are so far away, I live in Amsterdam, then the GS is more comfy. The older aircooled version are still excellent value without the modern gadgets! The paralever, well I got so used to it so much that I hate normall forks. By the way, the extras are not that expensive, and its worth it when freezing your hands off..
+vriendelijkegroet Many BMW owners have said the same about the paralever forks. Must try some. I'm a bit turned off by the GS range, purely because every man and his dog appears to have one lately! Plus even the old ones hold their value so well here in Germany that I'll never afford one! Being in hamburg also makes the twisties impossibly far away for me too, so i feel your pain mate! I used an Auto-train to get down to Vienna on my last trip. Amazing.
Thanks for that spiffing review Andy old bean. (Only just watched as I am in gathering as much info as I can on the R1200R, as its on my short list) As a longus limbus chap, like myself, was the ride height okay for you?
Many thanks Jim. My pleasure entirely! I found the size of it very agreeable indeed. If it weren't for the cost, I would have considered one as an alternative to the CB1000R that I ended up getting.
nice review, already wanna one to buy :)
+MotoDeer Thanks mate! These bikes are so good, they just sell themselves!
Nice in depth review again Andy. I do like the multi viewpoint camera work, I appreciate how much of a faf it can be to set up and edit, so well done you. P.S a question from one who still ides in the technological stone age- does the keyless ignition turn the bike off if the key fob becomes out of range ? any ideas on that.
+Gavin Skipp Cheers Gavin. Glad the multi cam nonsense is worth the faff! Tbh I'm not sure about the keyless thing. I do know for sure that with BMW cars, once the engine is started, you can throw the keys down a well and the car will run until you turn it off or it runs out of fuel (been working for a hire company and its happened!)
+Andy Man Cam So...umm...where would one find this well?
Nice video, quite entertaining. Came across a tempting 2015 R1200R on Craigslist.
Thanks! It's a truly beautiful bike! Go take a look!
Great video. I got one of these last summer and posted a review on my channel. Best bike I ever owned! I love it. I disagree with you about the comfort. I find it perfectly comfortable but then I prefer to have some wind on me. Although, towards the end of the video you said you could ride it all day so I guess I find it as comfortable as I do.
Did your test bike have the quick shift option? That's a great feature.
+Michael Brashier Thanks Michael! I can fully understand how you feel! This bike currently sits an easy top position in my list of bikes I've ridden. Fantastic machine. I think i could ride it all day in the twisties, no trouble. For any motorway i think I'd be looking at a slightly bigger screen. Though it would be a shame to spoil the look of it! Yes it had the quick shift and it was very inobtrusive. Though i think I'd opt out if i had to pay extra for it!
Quality as always....😆👍🚵
+P Topping Cheers very much!
Finall, what seems like an honest bike review, not one that panders to the dealership just to make sure they get asked to do another!
Thanks Paul. Sadly this is probably why I'll never be invited by the bike companies directly to give reviews!! :D
Great review , I like that idea with the valve on the wheel spoke. RSM8
+02bigkev Cool right! Until you change your tyres and only BMW stock the valves...
Andy Man Cam bugger! never thought of that, I thought they were a standard fit. trust BMW to think of that.
+02bigkev I could be wrong. But i wouldn't be surprised if your high street dealers just said no and then you have to go to the bmw dealer who will also give you their 'generous' mark up for the 'exclusive' service!
Good job with the review !
Are you planning on reviewing the Bmw f800r ? The f800r and the r1200r are bikes that I'm looking at mainly because I am interested in a bike for commuting. The f800r seems to have a lower bar for entry as far as DIY maintenance is concerned mainly because it's chain drive. What are your thoughts?
As a side note, this is becoming one of my go to channels for bike reviews and bike maintenance so I'm waiting with bated breath for any more videos that you may be putting up !
Hi Yatin! Thanks very much! I can see why the F800r would seem more attractive from a maintenance point of view. Personally I'm desperate to get away from chains because of the mess and the faff! But luckily I'm not afraid to get REALLY dirty changing shaft oil and such! :D
It's worth also considering that if you plan to by new, the warranty will cover any problems with the shaft, and you'll have to let BMW service the bike anyway fro the first couple of years to keep the warranty valid. Against that, with an F800r, you'll have to adjust/clean/lube the chain yourself. SO with the simpler bike, you might well end up doing MORE maintenance than with the fancier one!
I'm not really sure where the test riding will go next. Everything stops dead here in Hamburg in winter as far as test rides go, but thanks very much for your kind words and I hope the next test rides prove useful or at least entertaining!
Andy Man Cam thank you for the info ! Keep up the good work, cheers :)
So .....a new bike coming then?........when you win the Lottery eh Andy?😉Nice review as always mate.😎
+ninjanelly350 Cheers mate! Yeah, sadly the latter will have to happen before the former! 😂
Sold !! I bought the Blue and White R today!! Safest bike on the planet!!
+Michael Kastner Oooh, you jammy sod! Now you're just trying on purpose to make me jealous! Rise well and enjoy the new toy!
Another entertaining vid. Are there any future plans for a Triumph Tiger 1050 Sport review? I Haven't had the opportunity to sit on one yet. Thanks and ride safe amigo! :)
+jhezbeat Thanks mate! I was never too taken by the 1050 sport, but i guess you can't knock it until you've tried it! :D
Ahem. Just sayin' :D
Hallo...danke für das wertvolle rewiew.
Ich wollte fragen was für eine freigespräch einrichtung du dabei hattest? Super qualität..etwa integriert in dein helm oder original austattung vom helm?
Dankeeee
Grüsse
+SaMuRai Ötzi76 Hallo! Danke! Ich habe ein Lavalier Mikro in mein Helm eingebaut. Es ist dann an den Sony AS200 Action Cam angeschlossen. Funkioniert ziemlich gut! Helm ist ein MSR S8.
Ok I'm laughing pretty often now. Well done, you've got another sub. Looking at a 2015 r1200r now, where someone else has already mortgaged the house and sold the organs...
Thanks mate and welcome aboard! I utterly loved that bike. Seriously considered one when I bought my CB1000R. Sadly I couldn't find a 'post-donor' example to save the money on!!
Enjoyed your review on the R12R. I swapped to one just before lockdown. Can't understand how you kept banging your shins into the head though ?
Cheers Ian and congratulations. I’ve just got stupidly long legs mate!
"Thrusted towards the future" with a "stressed member". OMG, AMC, you are a sick man. :DDDDDDD
+disekjoumoer I tried to get help but apparently it's incurable. 😷
So, after all the thrusting, would you have bought one of these instead of the FZ1 if you'd have had the lolly?
+disekjoumoer I certainly would have considered it. It's definitely a more refined ride than the FZ1. And despite being a twin, it's only marginally more buzzy. Then there's the shaft drive and the torque curve! It would've been a close one!
Thanks. Your opinion matters to me :P You know what drives me mad? Choice. There are so many fantastic bikes, both new and used, and somehow we are expected to cope with this.
+disekjoumoer My pleasure! Things were easy for me, until i tried out the Scottoiler and reopened the door to chain driven bikes. Though tbh budget was the biggest constraint for me and as far as bang-for-buck goes, the FZ1 is simply unbeatable.
Good review Andy. It's a shame there are so many optional extras, granted you don't need them, but it's how they make their money...
+metalhead18241 Thanks! Yeah it is annoying. Just like the tyres it makes it impossible to get a true idea of the bike you'll actually buy. Arrogance on BMW's part too i suppose as they assume everyone will have everything!
+metalhead18241 but.......the options are pretty great. If you can get one used you could get all the options at the price of the base model. That's what I did but admittedly, I got lucky. You don't see many recent model used r1200r's.
Nice review. Looking to swap my Triumph Explorer for one of these... was just wondering, when are you going to do your next bike review? I kind of miss them.
Thanks! Tell me about it! I haven't ridden a bike that wasn't mine for TOO long! Sadly there won't be anything til March at the earliest as the Garages around here stop test rides during Winter. Soon, I hope!
Just to add - in case someone here is interested - I used to own the base model (Blue) which had no extras at all, so basic suspension and standard riding modes (road/rain) and I have to say it was awesome. I now have the Sport model (white/red) which as a ton of extras (dynamic ESA, extra riding modes) and I don't really notice any difference lol.
+The Sunseeker Hahaha! That's actually really good to know! I might one day have a chance of actually getting one AND enjoying it after scrimping on extras! Thanks!
I have this bike too and kept it longer than any previous bikes just so hard to find a better bike that copes with everything so effortlessly
That’s the most telling thing isn’t it! When there’s nothing that draws you away, then you’ve got a Winner!
I know however I’ve only got so many years left to haul big bikes like a loon before either my legs or the Green Agenda removes the option
Get it in while you can!
Nice review thanks. Better than many of the others, who try too hard to be funny.
+ewooll Thanks! I try not to force it, just enjoy riding the shiny new bike and see what happens!
I really like this bike as well and would likely get the base model. I can just see dropping the key from my pocket during a ride or having the gas cap or steering lock malfunction after a few years. TPMS batteries could be an issue as well over our 6 months of winter storage here. I don't care for the gold forks either and would most definitely go for the base model and add my own GPS and accessories. Lovely engine, and I imagine it has some of the character of my TLS.
+Jimo368 We are of one mind here. I don't mind the gold forks so much, colourblindness helps there though! But everything else I would prefer to leave out and add things as and when I wanted them. The best feature was by far and away the awesome engine. Everything else was just trimming!
+Jimo368 I own a fully loaded 2015 model with the GPS. I got my bike slightly used (5k miles) at the price of a base model bike so I got all the options without forking over the cash.
My take on all the options is this:
You don't need them because the base bike is pretty awesome. However, the options are pretty damn cool. Particularly cruise control, Electronic suspension adjustment, and quick shift.
The best feature about the Nav system isn't the navigation. Its that it connects to the bikes computer so you can see at a glance pretty much every data point the bike has from tire pressure (both wheels) to engine oil temp, trip computer, average speed, average mpg, etc etc.
Still, its not a must have but its pretty cool.
+Michael Brashier That's a real stroke of luck and certainly how I'd prefer to pick one up too. All the extras, already broken in, no first service cost and money saved too! I guess the cool extras are like upgrading from captain America to iron man! 😂 I can imagine getting seriously attached to having that much data available though. That said, i really disliked that rubber wheel thing!
Hi Andy, hesitating between the r1200r and the Triumph 800 xrx (and even the Street Twin!). 90% city riding and some weekend trips in the country. Very occasional pillion riding. What's your take? Cheers, Tony
90% city riding sucks for any big bikes.
@@ljonathan304 Yes, I've ended up with a Zero FXE, which is amazing for commuting, filtering and also the most fun bike I've ever ridden in terms of acceleration and handling, including CBRs, GSXs, Aprillias...Everything is in the perfect sweetspot. Obviously not designed for longer trips or motorways, although it will do motorway speeds very comfortably.
@@tonydare7614 Wow congratulations, I was going to say some light E bikes, but seems your choice is much better. Easy and Fun! I am happy for you!
@@tonydare7614 Wow last comments was 6 years ago!
@@ljonathan304 Thanks, ride safe and take care
I didn't see any fuel stats come up on screen during the refill and I have had to write to my MP.
+Sullybiker I'm very sorry. I really dropped the ball on this one. Normal service should be resumed presently.
How does one choose between all the great standard/ naked bikes these days? My god, Ducati monster, BMW r1200r , triumph street/ or speed, R9T, aprilia shiver, Kim Duke, & on and on !!!
It'S definitely cool to be naked lately! And the manufacturers are smashing it with the different options too!
ah, the joys of the huge-longitudinally-mounted-crankshaft-torque-induced roll. friend of mine low-sided his almost new R1200R during his first run in the twisties. can be quite...interesting if you do not anticipate it during cornering.
+DJS4000 That's a worrying thing to hear! Makes sense though. All that torque and Newton's laws don't go away just because you're having fun!
true. but you get used to everything i guess :D plus, i _really_ dig the looks of this thing. say what you will about BMW pricing, it's a gorgeous machine.
I did my bike test back in the 80s in Berlin on a R45. It took a while before I stopped dropping it on the right turn of the figure 8s.
You seem to be getting a lot of wind noise on that bike, I have the same issue with my Street Triple and its tiny screen.
Have you got a new camera? There seems to be a lot of crushing on the blacks losing detail.
+The Swiss Motard Because it has a screen the size of a 50p coin!
+The Swiss Motard Just new software. Plus the sun was very bright so, as ever, the small sensor struggles with the high contrast. I think I'll switch off the vivid setting next time to try and retain a little more detail. Fix it in post!!
+Andy Man Cam I've recently started playing with the protune settings on the GoPro which gives you a very highly detailed but washed out image. You can do some incredible things with that in post so I think you're onto the right track there.
+The Swiss Motard Agreed. Sony has 'Vivid' and 'Natural'. I'm looking forward to seeing how the Olfi cams HDR feature looks.
now i have my own one, bought today and i like it really, its a great bike, expensive but very nice to handle and to drive! maybe i will make also a Review within Schleswig Holstein!
+porti01iz Awesome! Jetzt bin ich sehr neidisch! You're going to have a lot of fun! Maybe see you out on the streets!
well, i live in Itzehoe, a Smalltalk town at the westcoast area, 60km from Hamburg
+porti01iz Ah yes! I've been through there a few times! 😆
A review with no idiotic jokes and with a normal narration voice as well.Well done!
"I like wide bars and I can not lie?"
Thanks, I think! Not sure if you're comparing me to other reviewers or to my own other reviews!! :D
That was merely a statement of fact. In a 90's hip hop style. With a silly voice.... You win.
Just show that after a year. Comparing to other reviewers of course :)
Cheers John.
I think style-wise the new R1200Rs are a massive leap over the previous version which were definitely catered for the more senior gentlemen lol.
+The Sunseeker Haha! Very true! I never really thought about them too much, but this one is a looker!
i have a 2016 r1200r with everything , and i put 160 miles on rides , and it is comfortable, total mileage is 36k miles. michelin tires going on 14k miles on them, probably change them in 1~2k miles. 2 batteries changed under warranty. i use the heated grips, quick shifter a bunch. the left hand side foot peg rubber gets destroyed easily, and bmw does not sell them anymore, so i zip tie it to the foot peg, problem solved. the mirrors are useless at highway speeds due to the vibration. i get 50 mpg at 65mph ( i like to cruise at 65mph, cause gasoline prices are close to $5.00 here in northern california and also to keep down tire wear ) gear shifting is smooth compared to my formerly owned japanese sportbikes. on twisty roads, it turns quickly, but i am always aware of the engine cylinders and i try not to lean in so hard( i had the dealer install the bars for the cylinders cause i never know when i might drop it,anyhow, i scrubbed my leftside peg feeler once and my right boot a couple of times.it is easy for me to do left/right u turns, and i am amazed that i can do so on a bike that is 500 pounds +, i guess it is well balanced. the ESA is not that great , i keep it in single rider no luggage or extra rider, road mode, ABS on, i did have the fork oil changed at 20k miles . the acceleration is great , i just leave it in 6th gear and feed in the gas and it goes. i haven't gone to it's claimed top speed cause i don't want a ticket, besides i've gone 170 mph on my ex~ 2003 R1 a few times and i played with fate those times, so no more high speed runs.....i do have the lowest seat available, cause i am only 5 ft 2 inches tall , but i use the middle seat at 29 inches for comfort. besides i wear logger boots which give me an extra 3 inches, i still can only touch one foot at a stop, but i have adapted to it just like every bike i have owned. i do have a middle height wind screen mounted , it helps a little. i toggle the display between tire pressure and engine / ambient temp. the fuel gauge is very useful and it has gone as low as 1/2 tank. i think the fuel tank holds 4 1/2 gallons. road noise is bad so i use foam ear plugs,and i can still hear the engine so i don't have that isolated feeling. i wish i could wear an open face helmet , but bug strikes are painful so i go with a full face arai or shoei. i leave all the maintenace to the dealer , although maintenance costs are pricey. oh, the price of the bike when i bought it was $21k in december 2015 with every option available, no discounts whatsoever. i'm a lousy bike buying negotiator. by the way, i had a 2013 gsxr 750 at the same time and after riding the r1200r , i really thought there was something wrong with my gsxr~ the gear shifts, the suspension, cause the r1200r was so smooth and the gsxr felt like a clunker..... real quick, but clunky~ highest speed on the gxsr 750 i did was only 120mph , no need to do a top speed run.....
Any plans to get a test ride on a R1200GS? Would be a rather splendid thing to see...
+external influences It would be a rather splendid thing to do aswell! I'd really like to but I'm a bit scared it would stop me liking anything else ever again!
Probably quite sensible to think that way, as the 1200GS does seems to be the apotheosis of the practical motorcycle.
+external influences I suppose the only saving grace might be a lack of character or excitement. But with the same core as the R1200R and being the lightest GS ever, I'm afraid that's unlikely!!
Can you tell me what upside down forks means?
+TheJtkirk Short answer: They're like normal forks, bit upside down! Long answer: with conventional forks, the thinner fixed part of the forks (the stanchion) is held by the triple clamp and the larger part (the slider) which slides over the stanchion is connected to the wheel. With upside down forks (often written as USD forks on spec sheets) the larger slider part is at the top and clamped by the triple clamps. The stanchions are then connected to the wheels and slide up into the fixed sliders. This reduces unsprung weight because the stanchions are lighter than the sliders (because they're thinner and less complicated). It also gives a more rigid front end because the of larger diameter of the sliders. The trade off is that now the fork oil is being forced downwards by gravity and so any fork seal problems result in quick leakage! Also i think the internals are a bit more complicated due to the mechanics of flipping everything on its head! But that's why they aren't often on cheaper bikes.
+Andy Man Cam Very comprehensive answer.Thank you
Are we too tall for all but the GS?
+Fibroboy It's looking more and more like that is the case. Unless we start down the lowered pegs/raised seat route. But then we're getting ground clearance issues and crappy Handling. Rubbish. #WishIWasALittleBitSmallerDontWannaBeABaller
It does looks like a nice bike, but I'm not a fan wind blast. Ride safe.
+vac0002 Agreed. My first move after purchase would be looking into larger or adjustable screen options.
nice review !
+paul whitehead Cheers Paul. To be fair the bike pretty much reviewed itself! At the risk of sounding a bit evangelical, i was just a vessel for its tremendousness!
How would you compare the power to the MT09 tracer?
+Bikers Quest The BMW is a lot more torquey from much lower down. In contrast the MT-09 was a lot faster revving and revved higher so felt a bit more racey with more room before you get the limiter. The MT-09 was more exciting because of the roar and the buzz but the BMW was more relaxed and grunty. Hope that helps!
Ah interesting, thanks this sounds like it's slightly better in the city
+Bikers Quest---Here is a dyno test done by Cycle world for a 2015 model of this bike. www.cycleworld.com/2015/09/03/2015-bmw-r1200r-naked-motorcycle-dyno-run-video-and-performance-chart
+Bikers Quest Surprisingly yes! But purely because of the torque and low kerb weight. Also the Tracer is very wide, though at the same time I think the seat height is a little higher and so your view in traffic is a bit more commanding. Of course, with my lazy riding style, I think the BMW would be better in pretty much all situations, as far as performance is concerned. But the Tracer is just a bit more exciting, a bit more interesting and sounds better too! Plus there's the wind protection which is the best (standard) setup of any of the bikes I've tried recently. Throw into the equation the fact that you could buy the Tracer with EVERY extra, Panniers, Fog lights, everything, insure it and probably fuel it for a year on the same money that the BMW will cost.
All in all it's a toughie because, though very different, you've randomly picked what I think are my 2 favourite bikes right now! It's a question of head versus heart, but unfortunately they both want both bikes!
Lol I would probably go with the tracer simply because the cheaper price and ridiculous valve clearance intervals. But if i had the money the BMW would most likely take it.
Heated grips are stock in Australia lol
AHAHA! Brilliant. Vital extra right there!
"Heated grips probably cost the blood of your first born". That sums up BMW costs! Very witty mate!
+Stuart Morton And that's a cheap extra! 😉
Think I will buy one.
And I’m sure you’ll be very happy 👍🏻
I just did. 😊 Waiting for nephew to bring it to Bordeaux then I can ride it home (the long way) to Alicante.Then ride to Slovenia for the summer hols.
Congrats on the new wheels!!
quality review! subbed and whitelisted ;)
+Simon Jensen Thanks very much! Cheers for watching and again for sticking around for more!
i like the Bike, but in this Video i like the landscape, its very near from my home in the northern Part of Germany!
+porti01iz Aha! You're the first local to recognise the area! Whereabouts are you located?
+porti01iz Aha! You're the first local to recognise the area! Whereabouts are you located?
+porti01iz Aha! You're the first local to recognise the area! Whereabouts are you located?
Great review, as always, and like I said on twitter, no bullshit!
Lovely looking bike, would not own one, though, as I just don't trust BMW shaft drive bikes.
Also not a fan of "optional extra's" just sell the bike as is, if you ask me.
+Sunfrancks Cheers mate! I just try to think of the things that I would want to know! Of course while editing i thought of thousands of nuggets of info i missed out! Only so much you can squeeze in the already too long 20 minutes that they always seem to last! :D
+Sunfrancks I've never heard of a shaft breaking. I suppose it has happened at some point since they have sold millions of them but I wouldn't rule out getting one based on the assumption the shaft would break. I've had 3 shaft drive bikes (Honda and BMW). All performed flawlessly.
+Michael Brashier Good to know. I guess it's true that a couple of disaster stories hold more weight than thousands of fairy tales. We only take the bad amazon reviews into account!
i could have done without knowing the cyls are offset. my ocd is going to go ham on me whenever i ride mine, now.
Ooops! Sorry! Hope you have gotten over it!
@@AndyManCam very much so... daughter got hit by a car, got brain damage and now requires care... can't risk myself by riding anymore. :(
Oh my. I’m so sorry to hear that mate.
Nice. Not a big fan of beemers but nice.
+vitaly deuterium Very nice. I've always looked upon them as expensive machines for the older gent. Either they've upped their game, or I've inadvertently stumbled into the older gent category!
Ha ha - what could be the answer ?
+vitaly deuterium Probably a little of A, a little of B!
72 ft lb of torque from 2,000 is very obvious when riding this excellent bike, max torque of 92ft lb at 6,500rpm
cheers
tony
+antonoat Really!? 72 @ 2000 rpm?! No wonder it pulls so hard! That's a really flat torque curve. Impressive stuff. Hats off to the engineers.
Hi Andy, yeah it's a very impressive engine, rev it out and it goes surprisingly well too, plenty fast enough for me on public roads. I recently bought one and I love it. take the screen off and it's a really serene quiet ride, the screen speeds up the airflow right at helmet level which doesn't help the noise levels. Thanks for the review, I enjoy how you do these tests, amusing and informative. Cheers
tony
+antonoat Thanks again Tony. I can totally understand no screen being quieter than a small one. They always seem to work perfectly for about 5% of the customer base!! I reckon that engine would suit me for a good long time. My versys felt like a tractor in treacle after this ride!!
Quite a balanced review, a few errors with the features and functions, but then it's not your bike. (why do dealers give bikes to people who have no intention, or the money, to buy?)
The R1200R is a great bike in every respect except for wind protection where it is merely good, it's a naked bike so that is almost irrelevant anyway. Touring is certainly possible and holding 80 MPH/130 KPH for extended periods isn't a problem at all. BMW list a higher accessory screen that doesn't totally blow the looks, and of course there's a choice of 4 seats. Two tours to Germany (from the UK) on my R1200R Sport last year with two trips to Austria, plus Spain/Portugal later in the year.
I'm coming round to conventional forks after numerous "funny front enders" the last being a K1600GT, and the ESA helps with that. Much prefer the R to the GS, the GS is too tall, there's too much noise coming up from the front wheel/tyre, and there's millions of 'em! The R is definitely more fun as an everyday bike, although arguably the GS may be better for touring due to slightly better weather protection. Get saving, you won't regret it!
Thanks Buster. I think they gave me the bike because I let them believe that i DID want to buy it! If I'd just said that I was having a jolly for my channel they'd have showed me the door! Agreed about the R vs GS thing. Especially here in Germany. Everybody has a GS and the matching Rukka gear! Overkill for the city commute I think! Any shortcomings of the R1200R can easily be overlooked because it's such a great bike! *ching* another 1 euro coin in the jar. Just another 50 years and I'll have enough!! :D
I wish you had at least familiarized yourself with the electronics on the bike. It makes all the difference in the world. And as far as all the things you mentioned as an "add-on", 99% of all that stuff is included in the model. The Dynamic suspension is an add on, which brings so many other things along with it. The GPS mount is an add on and rather inexpensive. And the small windscreen is an add on. There are 3 sizes to choose from if you need one. From that one which is the small version, all the way up to a damn near full car windscreen. Oh, and the R and the RS are the same bike except for the added fairing on the RS. It's not until you get into the RT that things get bigger, heavier, longer and wider. And one of the most exceptional Sport Touring bikes in the world today.
I can only go on what the salesman tells me Bob. The extras are only included if you pick the relevant ‚Paket‘ that includes those accessories. The base model has no heated grips, no ESA, No GPS, no cruise control and no keyless ignition. Also the R and the RS have completely different handlebar setups resulting in very different rider ergonomics. All in all, this was more about the core rider feel of the bike than a test of spec and equipment lineup. Would be impossible to cover all of the available options in the very short time that i have. Plus specs and packages differ from country to country.
Parabéns.. vocês só não mostraram a moto ...só o velocímetro
infelizmente não tive a moto por muito tempo. Existem muitas fotos da moto por aí, então eu queria me concentrar em pilotá-la em vez de olhar para ela!
Nice but I think the RS would suit me better. Maybe one day I'll trade in my trusty Guzzi.....maybe.
+Neil Burton I can imagine that's a big maybe! If i could out normal bars on the RS, it would be my choice too. I like the idea of a roadster, but I've gotten used to wind protection!
+Andy Man Cam likewise Andy, I love the fairing and adjustable screen on my Norge, don't think I could go back to a naked bike now. I must be getting soft in my old age.
+Neil Burton It's not old age mate. It's knowing what we want, through 'experience'!
Ah yes, the wisdom of experience. If only we knew back then what we know now eh!
Honestly some of you modern riders the wind is hurting you , the little screen doesn’t help much. I used to ride a Kawasaki 1000st everywhere , down to London , all round whales , I used to do it 12 months of the year , rain or shine and many times in the snow. I had no heated grips no fairing , for 11 years , I used to do 120 down to London as the cops were not about like they are today. You modern lot need to get some back bone.
Jeez Donna, get out of the wrong side of bed this morning? You’ve got a real bee in your bonnet over this one. Nobody said anything about the wind hurting them. The question is more about buffeting and noise. I rode a naked bike back then and i ride a naked bike now. But this is a review, so people want to know what the riding experience is like. Just like they might want to know that the cylinder heads are in the way of where somebody who isn’t used to a boxer engine might put them. Therefore, I’ve mentioned it a few times. It’s no news to me that they’re not going to move anywhere, but after 15 years of muscle memory, it’s hard to remember not to move my legs forward in the 1 hour that i had the bike. And speaking of cylinders, they 100% are offset from each other. If they weren’t, the two conrods would be connected at the same point on the crankshaft. Not possible. So one cylinder is slightly further forward than the other.
@@AndyManCam sorry sometimes I go off on one its just me having a rant mate 😅 👍
VFR 800F I will always keep, BUT i WILL have this in my evil stable some day.......some.....day
+acsolares2 That I can fully understand! Fine machine.
:D You should have a go on a Moto Guzzi Griso or Stelvio if you're looking for something similar but cooler :D.
+Gunnar gbtw Not a bad shout. Definitely cooler. Though i do like the idea of that german reliability!
Andy Man Cam :D What german reliability?
+Gunnar gbtw Haha! All that money has to be for something though right?! Maybe german reliability is like german efficiency, a fantastical memory!
Andy Man Cam :) All bikes have issues, but BMW's image and the reality are conflicted, really doesn't deserve all the reliability praise they get. I unfortunately own one of these junkers :D.
+Gunnar gbtw I have heard stories to that same tune. Also the cost of BMW servicing scares me well away from ever getting one from the showroom!
I really enjoyed my test ride on that bike. Pity I cannot afford it.
+Andrew Spooner We are 100% singing from the same hymn sheet there mate! :(
+Andy Man Cam The only problem with that bike, apart from cost, is the can. Though it sounds nice its bloody huge! and I could not find a decent looking smaller one. What is the point of having a single sided swing arm if you cannot admire the dam thing?
+Andrew Spooner My thoughts exactly! Though it'd be a shame to spend a small-medium fortune on a bike and throw 5kg of exhaust straight in the bin and drop another 500 smackers on what should have been there in the first place!
Another great, expensive naked is the Ducati Monster 1200 S. Try and get a test ride. Sublime.
So admit it, deep down u love those fat asymmetric cylinders no matter how many times u hit them :D
+MaxTryk I did. In spite of the throbbing welts on my shins, i really really did!
The roads are so dirty , what do you want the council’s to wash them for you. First thing I would do is remove that screen
As always Donna, OBSERVATIONS!!!
360° firing order twin cylinder engines are SO BLAND sounding. None of the raspy, burbbly, barky noises from the 180º or 270° firing order. I guess that's what you get with a perfectly even number of explosions happening every 4 cycles. Kind of boring.
I agree that the 180 and 270 motors sound a lot more exciting and who doesn't love a bubbly popping barker of a bike!? But personally I find something else appealing about these engines. They sound composed but grunty. Like the Merlin in a Spitfire!
Hahaha.
Well I've read a lot of comments on social media every time the subject of a parallel twin comes up, where most people loath them. It's probably one of the most universal and widely unique engines ever put in a motorcycle because it's been configured in no less than 4 firing orders to my knowledge. Even the most common engine in the world, the i-4, has only been configured two different ways to my knowledge.
+Lifted_Above us bikers do love to argue about the little things that we can't even see! 😆 Great that so much character can be imparted upon so few cylinders though!
Yeah I know. 180°, 270°, 360°, 315° are all variations of the lowly p-twin. I prefer 270° the most.
Nuda 900R had that funky 315° variation, which is the same firing order of a Harley Davidson, hence the sound.
Rider distraction thing... lol
Bikers chew-toy! ;D
Is that all you can do is moan and find fault , the truth about that BMW is it’s outstanding , nothing wrong with shaft drive , mirrors are great , new tyres are not slippy as you say , the old tyres I had to put up with you modern riders couldn’t handle , it’s your lack of confidence not the new tyres are slippy . Yes you have to run new tyres in but they are not slippy , it’s you?
This again? Really? Didn’t you pretty much say all of that already on a different video Donna? Once again, i very much enjoyed this bike. Even considered buying one. Those aren’t complaints, they’re observations. This is a review after all.
You modern riders the wind is blasting me , not the most comfortable . You modern riders are all hairy fairy. In my day fairings didn’t exist , I used to ride hundreds of miles in rain all we had was leather suits and waterproofs , winter or summer no fairing.
When I were a lad, we used to live in shoe box, in't middle o' 't road...