I bought one recently after test riding back to back with 1250. This is more fun, is really agile, handles great and much better value for money. I love it.
One of the best review of F850GS on YT. Loved the casual talk over all important features including ride height. I am from India, planning to buy this bike soon. Thanks a lot.
Nice review, thanks! For many riders the main difference between this and the big GS will be chain vs shaft drive. Some riders just love shaft drives and never look back to using chains again.
Great review, as always. I test rode the F850GSA and R1250 GS Rallye X back to back in Aus a couple of months ago, and l agree 100% with your thoughts. I was very impressed with the 850. Great sound and performance, and typical BMW build quality. No initial fork dive as on the Africa Twin either. I did get a chance to do some dirt road and was very impressed with the handling, (it too had a full tank). It sure made my old 05’ 1200GS, (which I’ve owned 8 years), feel like an old tractor, and not much difference in HP! Enjoying your reviews, all the best, Grant.
Timely review indeed. Wonderful machine there. Just last night I rolled my spanking brand new 2019 Triumph Tiger 800 XCA into my garage. Side note...... Thank You Great Britain for giving the world Triumph Motorbikes !!!!!! 👍🏼. Words cannot describe how much I LOVE this machine. Thanks TMF for allowing me to go on about my new ❤️ love. 🇺🇸
Really like the look and the price of the 850GSA rallye sport. Then I saw the chain drive. I think this would’ve been a serious contender for my next new bike if it had a shaft. Love the review Andy, great job as always. Keep up the good work.
I recently traded my 1200 GSA LC for that same bike. I wouldn't have considered it, or purchased it for the MSRP price of $19.9k US. Mine has the factory Akrapovic pipe bringing that price up to 19.9. Since the dealer knocked off $5k it made more sense. So far I really like it and it definitely is better on the dirt than the 1200 GSA.
Thanks for coming back on the review of this bike! No surprises on this one! LOL Even the bike looks fantastic is never gonna have that nice deep sound of the big brother 1200 or 1250! After I sold my 1100 gs I got a 700 gs but i miss the sound of the big boxer engine! Nothing wrong with the 700 other the small tank but my next bike will be probably a used 1200 gsa! Great job on review of the 850 gsa! Cheers!
Definitely my next bike. I've only just brought my first "big bike" but once that no claims build up over a few years I'm going straight for the 850 GS. Such brilliant bikes
Screamingtilltheend I’ve just bought a 2014 r1200gs te after 8 months of riding the insurance wasn’t bad and I was only paying £120 for my bandit for the year.
@@jonathanlees5241 I only have a year no claims and im 24 so insurance is quite insane, I currently have an 02 Triumph sprint RS 955 and insurance is about £600 a year which is pretty average out of all the bikes I was looking at, hopefully another year or two on the no claims and getting over the 25 year age bracket should bring it down enough to where its possible
Thank you for posting. Great video. A couple of questions. Why would a person objectively prefer to purchase the 850 vs the 1250 and vice versa? Also, how would you compare the 850 to the equivalent KTM bike?
I'm thinking of buying brand new for the first time. The plethora of bikes to choose from is really confusing and hard to make any decisions. My own TH-cam channel talks about this. I'm stuck between the BMW gs850 and the vstrom1000. Everyone seems to want these BMWs but I'm not sure if these warrant a premium price over other bikes available?
One difference you didn't mention between the Boxer & this model, this one is chain final drive versus shaft drive for the larger bike. That might put some folks off.
I never understood why people shy away from chain drives. Takes 2 mins to tighten/lube and better fuel economy. I had an old cruiser with shaft drive years ago. When the shaft busted, it cost me the cost of 10 chains and sprockets to fix.
I do wish they'd design some sort of pivoting bits on the screen which could point forward and scoop air towards the rider. Rather like the opening vent windows on old cars. That would be of great comfort here in the tropics.
Great review TMF. One thing that does worry me about the bike is that side stand and the slightly alarming angle it puts the bike at on what looked like a level surface. On a slight camber or my local Edinburgh cobbled streets that would worry me. My Africa Twin Adventure Sport is quite upright on the stand but because of it carrying its weight a bit higher like the 850 appears to, if you try to get the stand down with a few cm less of road underneath you it dips alarmingly and is bloody murder to get back off the stand. Do you think that’s an issue here?
Thanks for posting..great review as ever. Nice bike in isolation but its just too heavy (way more than my non LC GS that has shaft drive, & more than standard boxer LC). If I didn't already own a R1200GS & was in the market I don't see any reason why I'd buy this over the boxer unless I was determined to buy new & needed to save the cash. Having said that I'm a road rider, but surely for those doing more off road the Yamaha Tenere 700 would be a lighter & cheaper option?
Another cracking review Andy I’m loving mine I was out riding with a few really quick boys the other weekend and they couldn’t shake me off and they all said how capable the bike was especially on the twisties Keep up the good work pal ride safe 👍
I've been looking at this bike lately, as i've been looking for a more "long travels" bike. The basic F850 GS stock is pretty cheap. But of course you want all the good stuff on it, and the price follow the wish list. I feel like they messed up a bit with the F750 GS and F850 GS though. The 750 is more street friendly, while the 850 is more offroad focused. They have the exact same engine, but the 850 is a lot more powerful. But the logic says you'd be better of with that extra power and torque that's in the 850 on road. You're not likely to do tight twisties with nobby tires and adventure kits. Why not call them all 850 and call them Road, Adventure and Offroad/Rally versions? They already have a lot of letters and names already...
I pity you guys in the northern climes. Where I am in Australia we can ride all year round. Here on the coast we can get glorious Winter days with 15-18 degC, even 20 degC days.
Jurgen Treue Here in New York I can ride about seven months out of the year, but still can get in the odd ride in March and November even being a fair weather rider. It sure makes you appreciate the nice days of spring summer and fall though!
Hey TMF! Doing some research on a rainy Sunday. Looking to change my Tracer 700 this year. Currently considering this fab GS in Adventure spec plus the Tiger 900, Africa Twin and even the Moto Guzzi V85 Travel, (which I know you don’t like the look of!). Thanks as always to your excellent and comprehensive reviews, I think I’m swinging towards this F850….To be continued! Cheers!
TheMissendenFlyer I testdrove both and the Ducati gave more of a quality feel compared to the BMW. But felt like the BMW was more comfortable. I thought you were a BMW lover !?
Would you be able to contact triumph and try to get your hands on a brand new triumph 1200 rally 2022, I think they come out in march they claim that it is a BMW GS beater, and it would be good to have a opinion on one before people go out to buy one all your video's are very good.
Im curious if the model you rode had lowered suspension as well as a lower seat? I'm hoping it doesn't because I'm getting an almost new 2021 F850GSA - and I'm 5'8" too - and hope I won't need a lowering kit as long as I'm using a factory low seat. Thanks for a lovely quick first impression 😀
Entry level 14k? Am i alone here? bought a Vesys 650, luggage hand guards and other extras 200kg 250 tank range . Under 7k Ok no fancy electrics but excellent front brake great intuitive abs, silky smooth fueling No euro 4 juddering! have come to realise pushing its limits now bedded in, why this dark horse under the radar bike is such a hoot to ride. Adam Childs, MSN loves his and thats saying something. Enjoyed the Motorrad BMW roadshow last Sunday at Whyteways cafe bury hill. Excellent live band! Felt sorry for the blonde young lady who as one of the test ride posse's was leaving dropped the s1000rr ouch!!! Enjoying your reviews as always Mr TMF.
Chain drive is great, how can it put some people off of buying one because of chain drive? ? Never understood it, I love chain tensioning, cleaning and lubing procedure 😀
Again, one of the better reviews, thanks! In a few months it will be time to replace my Tiger 800, I was looking forward for the new Tiger 900, but this should be an interesting alternative!
I test rode one of these the other day and the wind protection is about to my chest and I couldn’t keep my visor up the wind pushed it down at motorway speeds. I’m 6.2 and would need a larger screen but it is very nimble but it’s a heavy bike to ride around town and filter on but it’s so planted at faster speeds you could munch up the miles and the seat is pretty comfortable
Fantastic review! Would you reccomend this restricted to an a2 license? Furthermore please could you do a full in depth look and review of the BMW TFT just like you have done with the triumph one? Many thanks in advance.
I have always wondered why BMW didn't put a boxer engine in the 850. By all accounts it is one of the best engines out there. The adventure riders seem to love it for it's low center of gravity. The shaft drive seems to be nearly bullet proof. Why didn't they just down size the boxer and make the 850 a smaller version of 1250? Do you have any thoughts?
Yes I completely agree, if they did a smaller capacity boxer with shaft drive on this bike it would be a world beater!! As it is it's just too heavy to shift around even compared to it's bigger heavier brother the 1250 GS....
@@TheMissendenFlyer I think boxer engine is a bit low and can hit the surface in bad roads. So this bike is a bit more oriented towards off road. But I agree I would prefer smaller boxer engine, and use it in city or highway
I’ll need advice- I have the R1200 GS Dec/17 with everything ESA & hillstop assist. What are your thoughts on trading it in for the Triumph RS Street Triple? Help. I tour once a year for 2 weeks & city riding rest of the time in Sunny & wet Singapore
Have not. But I believe it has pretty much same power , lighter & just as economical. It would be a slimmer Diavel that I had before. It’s 30k Singapore dollars here , my Gs was 48k 7 months old. I can’t get rid of it now at 41k.
Nice bike....I love these mid-sized ‘tall-rounders’. Sensible power, sensible price, great tank size and parallel twins are brill. Looks like you could ride it all day, though I’d prefer a quadrophonic swing arm for that price! 😉😉. Very nice review!
Yep I've just gone for one , tried the standard gs and was desperate bad on wind noise but rest of bike was great so the Adventure spec will be better for wind I hope!
Nice review & bike. Looks good too. To me this makes a lot more sense than the 1250 in most ways, especially in the UK unless you ride two up most of the time or you're in Europe going up and down the Autobahn frequently.
@@neilb4297 Yep. Agree totally. There are so many great middleweights of every make and type flooding the market now. Plus the performance of middleweights now is practically the same as "big" bikes only a few years ago, which incidentally is more than enough for the road.
I forgot to mention that the screen and seat you have on this bike is not standard. The Rallye comes with a really small screen (more for off roading) and a bench seat that is quite high and hard for that matter (like a KTM). I think the screen was taken off an exclusive model and as you say a low seat was put on for you. I have put one of those clamp on screen extenders for now and it works fine for me at 6ft tall.
Hey, once again a very good test ride video. I value them very much as I am working on my licence (Germany) at the moment and am in the market for a motorcycle. So your test rides help me a lot to figure out what kind of bike could be something for me. And I was looking for that wiper thingy you have on your left hand but couldn't find it anywhere. Could you please provide a link to that item as I consider to have one of these for me as well? Thx very much and keep up the great work. I am looking very much forward to some new tours which I am sure you will share sooner or later. I love the Scotland tour and Norway. Awesome videos from there! Greeting from Germany
Just rewatching this review TMF. How does the weight distribution compare with the recent Africa Twin AS you reviewed, ie low down weight vs high up weight ? Is it more similar to the big GS ? Great review by the way. Thanks
How is this Beemer in crosswinds? I currently ride a Yammie XT660R, and that one is really like a bucking bronco in crosswinds. That would be on the top of my list for requirements as the coastal winds here in summer are a bit rough.
Actually no - the "normal" GS actually feels much lighter to ride than the F850 as it carries it's weight much lower, the normal GS is a joy to live with, the F850 is a pain IMO!
I just did a test ride on the 850…. You are so right…It felt like such a pain in the backside… no comparison with the Tiger. The gear changes felt awkward and I could feel a thump in the clutch on every up and downshift from 15mph. Felt much less nimble and agile than the tiger 900. The GS offers a fairly plush ride overall but I would never take it off road. My choice is made Khaki Tiger 900 Rally Pro it is!
Hi! Mr. TMF, I am going to buy either the BMW F850 GS or the F850 GSA. Could you please help to decide which one is a better all around motorbike, considering that whichever I will pick would be fully equipped. I will very much appreciate your opinion. Thanks in advance. Guillermo
@@TheMissendenFlyer Ok. One more question Mr. TMF: If there is one mid-sized adventure bike (650-900cc) that you could recommend, what would be this? Yet again, thanks in advance, I value your opinion.
Nine months after buying my F850 GS Sport in September 2018 and commuting into central London every day over the winter I felt that the weight was too high up and the bike didn't feel as stable at low speeds as I would like. I am also not tall at 5ft 7in. I also found the fork dive had become disconcerting and the font forks on these are non-adjustable. Yes I appreciate it's an adventure bike but I preferred the up-right position for commuting. On that basis the F850 GSA is a non-starter for me. I was already being drawn to the 1200 GS by the lower weight and the telelever suspension (the latter TMF didn't mention) and felt these would cure my issues. However, insuring the 'big' GS on a London postcode is ridiculously expensive. An accident when commuting home at the end of May wrote the bike off and I am now undecided what to buy next. Also learned a lesson: buy gap insurance! My non-fault accident will likely see me £2-3k out of pocket. Any suggestions TMF?
Hi TMF - so it would be fair to say that in comparison with the 1200 or 1250 it lacks top end grunt? I guess that the drawback wouldn’t just apply to speed but also to pick up etc when fully loaded for a tour? A friend had one of the earlier models and toured all over Europe but now knows what he was missing with the 1209GS - a fair comment? Anyway, a fine review as always and thanks from Portugal! Yours aye, Alan
Great video and all, but I have a q. You did now 2 f850GSA videos, and 0 F850GS videos, why is that? I'm really interested in the lighter and cheaper 850. Is there a chance you will do it in the future?
Love your reviews ,but wish you would mention first service cost and major service costs especially given B.M.W.'S prices. It is becoming more of a consideration when purchasing a new bike . My Triumph dealer servicing I have found out since purchasing my bike is pretty horrendous ,don't think I will be keeping the bike long term .
Michael Evans agree completely triumph main dealer prices are outrageous. There are alternatives in England? Check out “ muddy sump” great independent triumph mechanic
That middleweight adventure category is getting very competitive, but that scaffolding at the back is fugly compared to other manufacturers that are doing integrated panniers
Good review, although at 5ft8in with a 30inch inseam this is way too tall for me. The din socket in 12v, usb is 5v so the din supports a range of other accessories other than mobile phones or sat nav (heated clothing springs to mind) that aren’t supported by usb. The din is also much more stable and less likely to jiggle loose. Maybe the question should be why don’t manufacturers provide both?
Anthony Price . I know right?? It really makes taking these bikes off road a struggle. I have a GSA which is factory lowered, but it’s still just a bit too tall and makes some off road riding a bit hairy!
Hi Sir, a submission from India. I am out to buy one of mid size adventure bikes. I believe this video is before the 900 Rally Tiger was launched. If you were to put your money today between 850GS Adventure and Tiger 900 Rally, which one would you choose. I ride bike for almost the same reasons as you do. Lots of weekend rides and short trips and twice a year I take out for long 8-12 days trips. The ratio of road to offroads is about 75:25 I would say. Hoping a comment on an old video catches your attention. Thanks in advance.
Great review TMF and I agree, at standstill loving around it feels such a heavy bike and not well balanced especially getting it onto the centre stand. I’ve a 2018 GS Adventure so know what heavy feels like but this is at the limit. Also dives so much in those standard forks, just didn’t like it but I do live the looks of the GSA version of the 850👍
Interesting to see that the side stand is considerably shorter than on my standard F850 GS which is a nightmare - you really have to be careful where you park up.
@@andrewwatson9586 Intrigued by this - I have seen the same comment on an F850 Forum. The side stand on my F850 is approx 325mm - are they fitting different stands to the same bike or am I missing something?
Looks like a good bike and another great couple of reviews. I'm glad BMW have put the exhaust on the right on this model, having it on the left on several older models always spoilt the looks. This looks much better. The only real disadvantage I can see over the bigger GS's is the lack of shaft drive, particularly if it's being used as a long distance tourer. That said, as a mid sized tourer I still wonder if the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, is much better value or money.
Mmmm....I’m more and more drawn to the middleweight division TMF. It’s hard to justify the extra cost of ‘BIG’ bikes when these are so good. And when I was younger 850 was a BIG big bike!
Thanks for this video Andy, even if spring is well past sprung. I've been curious about the F850GS or a 1250GS to replace my V-Strom 650 next season. It took a fair number of additions and edits to make the V-Strom pleasurable to ride, and even now that I like it, it's not a long termer as it's not sufficiently quick to avoid some of the dangerous manoeuvres made on the 400 series highways here at home. Will be arranging demo rides at my dealer but this was a good introduction so thanks again.
I have the opportunity to purchase an adventure bike. I have $25k (AUD) to spend. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro is just shy of that and the GSA Rallye is on special here (in this spec) at £22k. Additionally, I could put the Akropovic exhaust on the GSA and still come out below cost of the Rally Pro. What would you lean towards Mr. Flyer? ...I'm a Adventure bike novice but would certainly be looking at offroad schooling as time passes. I'm 182cm and 82kg. Thanks in advance!
I would never change my Vstrom 1000 XT for this BMW, sure it has a lot of good electronic stuff but when ridding it probably does not come close. And Made in China is also not my thing, price is also an issue.
@@jurgentreue1200 I wonder about Vins. My Triumph seems to indicate made in the UK. But then I am told that it was made in Thailand. Maybe final assembly on the frame was in the UK with lots of Thai components. Triumph do not seem to want to say.
Vehicle manufacturers source parts from other companies and often from other countries. Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension for example. The country of manufacture is where to assembly line is, one would think.
I guess yeah al go test rides probably my best bet really like the look of the 850 gsa alot of bike.whats the on the road price of the one you were on buddy
Even if I ride a Honda, I have to admit that the 850 GSA is the best buy in Europe... Probably the V Strom 1050 might be an alternative option, but the GSA has more of road skills!
I had the 800gs, good bike, but traded it in for the Africa Twin. Found the gs really buzzy and lacking low end torque. Sounded like a sewing machine, as well. I wonder how much improved this newer version is? Love the new display. Enjoying the Honda much more. The one main advantage the 800gs had was better cornering due to lighter weight.
Great review Mr. I've just configured one on the BMW site, 13K, which I think is great value, for the same spec Tiger it is close to 14k. You are giving me a lot to think about , I've got a 2017 Tiger xca, which is good but not great.
The 12 volt socket can be used for a compressor not just for phones and sat nav if it was usb important on a proper adventure bike why don’t BMW make a navigation app for your phone that shows up on the main screen like ktm that you could control through the wizz wheel to save having to install the separate navigation the bracket for which spoils the look of all there bikes great review as always
@@TheMissendenFlyer i guess the f850gs rallye has no cruise control....just teesing you...keep up the great work...look foward to the air/ground race vid.
Finally a good video on my dream Adventure bike, would be cool if these got a Boxer engines as well. how tall are you? i am 181 and in store these bikes look kinda tall and difficult to handle in town traffic.
And we're having nice riding weather in my part of Australia lately. Not bad for the first week of Spring. It's been sitting around 24-25 degC the last few days.
Morning. Do patreon people get to see the vlog before everyone else? This could explain the thumbs up and comments only moments after the vlog has been released.
I bought one recently after test riding back to back with 1250. This is more fun, is really agile, handles great and much better value for money. I love it.
One of the best review of F850GS on YT. Loved the casual talk over all important features including ride height. I am from India, planning to buy this bike soon. Thanks a lot.
My pleasure - glad I could help!
Nice review, thanks!
For many riders the main difference between this and the big GS will be chain vs shaft drive. Some riders just love shaft drives and never look back to using chains again.
Great review, as always. I test rode the F850GSA and R1250 GS Rallye X back to back in Aus a couple of months ago, and l agree 100% with your thoughts. I was very impressed with the 850. Great sound and performance, and typical BMW build quality. No initial fork dive as on the Africa Twin either. I did get a chance to do some dirt road and was very impressed with the handling, (it too had a full tank). It sure made my old 05’ 1200GS, (which I’ve owned 8 years), feel like an old tractor, and not much difference in HP! Enjoying your reviews, all the best,
Grant.
Thank you Grant - appreciate the kind words!
Timely review indeed. Wonderful machine there. Just last night I rolled my spanking brand new 2019 Triumph Tiger 800 XCA into my garage. Side note...... Thank You Great Britain for giving the world Triumph Motorbikes !!!!!! 👍🏼. Words cannot describe how much I LOVE this machine. Thanks TMF for allowing me to go on about my new ❤️ love. 🇺🇸
Congrats on the new bike!
My new Triumph is the best bike on the planet. Britain is a top notch bike builder, bar none. 🇺🇸
@@bradleyalexander5821 yep,but your bike was made in Thailand!
Really like the look and the price of the 850GSA rallye sport. Then I saw the chain drive.
I think this would’ve been a serious contender for my next new bike if it had a shaft.
Love the review Andy, great job as always. Keep up the good work.
Thank you Gary...
Blooming heck, if Spring has sprung that's one hell of a lie in I've just had 😱
That’ll teach me to make reference to the time of year when I record these things! This one has been “in the can” for some months...
@@TheMissendenFlyer Have you got so far ahead of yourself that you're now out of date 🤔.
@@TheMissendenFlyer Trees are a bit of a give away!
HAHA I thought the same thing "Spring has sprung?" The leaves are falling!!
Ian H I assume the “ H” is for Holmes 🔎🧐
I recently traded my 1200 GSA LC for that same bike. I wouldn't have considered it, or purchased it for the MSRP price of $19.9k US. Mine has the factory Akrapovic pipe bringing that price up to 19.9. Since the dealer knocked off $5k it made more sense. So far I really like it and it definitely is better on the dirt than the 1200 GSA.
Yet again - a great review, thanks. I bought an F800GS when they were new about 10 years ago(?). By gum things have moved on a bit since then!
Thanks for coming back on the review of this bike! No surprises on this one! LOL
Even the bike looks fantastic is never gonna have that nice deep sound of the big brother 1200 or 1250! After I sold my 1100 gs I got a 700 gs but i miss the sound of the big boxer engine! Nothing wrong with the 700 other the small tank but my next bike will be probably a used 1200 gsa! Great job on review of the 850 gsa! Cheers!
No one does bike reviews like you do. Love your videos.
Definitely my next bike. I've only just brought my first "big bike" but once that no claims build up over a few years I'm going straight for the 850 GS. Such brilliant bikes
Screamingtilltheend I’ve just bought a 2014 r1200gs te after 8 months of riding the insurance wasn’t bad and I was only paying £120 for my bandit for the year.
@@jonathanlees5241 I only have a year no claims and im 24 so insurance is quite insane, I currently have an 02 Triumph sprint RS 955 and insurance is about £600 a year which is pretty average out of all the bikes I was looking at, hopefully another year or two on the no claims and getting over the 25 year age bracket should bring it down enough to where its possible
Screamingtilltheend yeh I don’t have any no claims yet but suppose being 30 helps
Thank you for posting. Great video. A couple of questions. Why would a person objectively prefer to purchase the 850 vs the 1250 and vice versa? Also, how would you compare the 850 to the equivalent KTM bike?
The one hell of a review ..I've been waiting for ...cheers
Me too
I'm thinking of buying brand new for the first time. The plethora of bikes to choose from is really confusing and hard to make any decisions. My own TH-cam channel talks about this.
I'm stuck between the BMW gs850 and the vstrom1000.
Everyone seems to want these BMWs but I'm not sure if these warrant a premium price over other bikes available?
One difference you didn't mention between the Boxer & this model, this one is chain final drive versus shaft drive for the larger bike. That might put some folks off.
Back to Moto guzzi v85tt then :)
I never understood why people shy away from chain drives. Takes 2 mins to tighten/lube and better fuel economy.
I had an old cruiser with shaft drive years ago. When the shaft busted, it cost me the cost of 10 chains and sprockets to fix.
Another great review TMF, thank you for sharing it!! Safe rides!
I do wish they'd design some sort of pivoting bits on the screen which could point forward and scoop air towards the rider. Rather like the opening vent windows on old cars. That would be of great comfort here in the tropics.
Nice review as always TMF. Really good looking bike in that colour scheme. Thanks again.
It is like an Africa Twin, but with T/L tyres, modern dash, centre stand, sat nav enabled and high tech suspension.
I’ve been looking forward to your thoughts on this bike. Love the look of it. Perfect bike in my mind
Another thumbs up review. Whiz wheel. A new phrase to me. I love it. Hang on while I play with my whiz wheel.
Definitely a BMW fanboy! You were gushing 😂
Great review! Enjoyed from a sun lounger in Cape Verde..... England sure lost its leaves quickly, I only left on Monday 😜😆
Yep - frosty here today....enjoy the sunshine....
Great review TMF. One thing that does worry me about the bike is that side stand and the slightly alarming angle it puts the bike at on what looked like a level surface. On a slight camber or my local Edinburgh cobbled streets that would worry me. My Africa Twin Adventure Sport is quite upright on the stand but because of it carrying its weight a bit higher like the 850 appears to, if you try to get the stand down with a few cm less of road underneath you it dips alarmingly and is bloody murder to get back off the stand. Do you think that’s an issue here?
Thanks for posting..great review as ever. Nice bike in isolation but its just too heavy (way more than my non LC GS that has shaft drive, & more than standard boxer LC).
If I didn't already own a R1200GS & was in the market I don't see any reason why I'd buy this over the boxer unless I was determined to buy new & needed to save the cash.
Having said that I'm a road rider, but surely for those doing more off road the Yamaha Tenere 700 would be a lighter & cheaper option?
Another cracking review Andy I’m loving mine I was out riding with a few really quick boys the other weekend and they couldn’t shake me off and they all said how capable the bike was especially on the twisties Keep up the good work pal ride safe 👍
You too Pete - good to hear from you mate!
I've been looking at this bike lately, as i've been looking for a more "long travels" bike. The basic F850 GS stock is pretty cheap. But of course you want all the good stuff on it, and the price follow the wish list. I feel like they messed up a bit with the F750 GS and F850 GS though. The 750 is more street friendly, while the 850 is more offroad focused. They have the exact same engine, but the 850 is a lot more powerful. But the logic says you'd be better of with that extra power and torque that's in the 850 on road. You're not likely to do tight twisties with nobby tires and adventure kits. Why not call them all 850 and call them Road, Adventure and Offroad/Rally versions? They already have a lot of letters and names already...
Love the barnstormer logo and back roads leading to the local airport! I like the single sided swing arm.I miss the analog tachometer.
What single sided swing?
My local dealer loaned me the F860 GS Adventure as my R NineT was in for its 6,500 service ; i have to say i was totally impressed with it
Ahhhh spring... I remember you so fondly. Now summer and riding season here is coming to an end and it's a bummer.
Tell me about it!
I pity you guys in the northern climes. Where I am in Australia we can ride all year round. Here on the coast we can get glorious Winter days with 15-18 degC, even 20 degC days.
Jurgen Treue Here in New York I can ride about seven months out of the year, but still can get in the odd ride in March and November even being a fair weather rider. It sure makes you appreciate the nice days of spring summer and fall though!
Hey TMF! Doing some research on a rainy Sunday. Looking to change my Tracer 700 this year. Currently considering this fab GS in Adventure spec plus the Tiger 900, Africa Twin and even the Moto Guzzi V85 Travel, (which I know you don’t like the look of!). Thanks as always to your excellent and comprehensive reviews, I think I’m swinging towards this F850….To be continued! Cheers!
The F850 feels heavier than a 1250GS be warned!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes I think that might be a deal-breaker. Africa Twin test ahead!
@TheMissendenFLyer Great review! If you had to choose between an Multistrada 950S (2019) or the F850gsa which one would you choose and why?
Possibly the Multistrada - looks better, feels lighter and it’s a Ducati!
TheMissendenFlyer I testdrove both and the Ducati gave more of a quality feel compared to the BMW. But felt like the BMW was more comfortable. I thought you were a BMW lover !?
The increased fuel range is a major selling point for riders worried about getting stranded on the way to their local starbucks.
Very nice review of the BMW and a good day out
Would you be able to contact triumph and try to get your hands on a
brand new triumph 1200 rally 2022, I think they come out in march they claim
that it is a BMW GS beater, and it would be good to have a opinion on one
before people go out to buy one all your video's are very good.
I'm on the list to borrow one once they're available....
Im curious if the model you rode had lowered suspension as well as a lower seat? I'm hoping it doesn't because I'm getting an almost new 2021 F850GSA - and I'm 5'8" too - and hope I won't need a lowering kit as long as I'm using a factory low seat. Thanks for a lovely quick first impression 😀
I think this was standard suspension with low seat IIRC
Thanks for the review! Good that I can count on you for my biking fix, it just started raining here :(
Entry level 14k? Am i alone here? bought a Vesys 650, luggage hand guards and other extras 200kg 250 tank range . Under 7k Ok no fancy electrics but excellent front brake great intuitive abs, silky smooth fueling No euro 4 juddering! have come to realise pushing its limits now bedded in, why this dark horse under the radar bike is such a hoot to ride.
Adam Childs, MSN loves his and thats saying something.
Enjoyed the Motorrad BMW roadshow last Sunday at Whyteways cafe bury hill. Excellent live band!
Felt sorry for the blonde young lady who as one of the test ride posse's was leaving dropped the s1000rr ouch!!!
Enjoying your reviews as always Mr TMF.
Absolutely fantastic review. Thank you. Excellent work sir, very professionally carried out. I’m impressed. Neil C
Thank you Neil
Chain drive is great, how can it put some people off of buying one because of chain drive? ? Never understood it, I love chain tensioning, cleaning and lubing procedure 😀
Again, one of the better reviews, thanks! In a few months it will be time to replace my Tiger 800, I was looking forward for the new Tiger 900, but this should be an interesting alternative!
Defo worth a go I reckon....
.......very distant bell ringing about the 12V power socket....Wasn't it intended to be used by a battery conditioner/charger?
Yep, CANbus Optimate 4 works though the socket without the need for the usual adaptor
I test rode one of these the other day and the wind protection is about to my chest and I couldn’t keep my visor up the wind pushed it down at motorway speeds. I’m 6.2 and would need a larger screen but it is very nimble but it’s a heavy bike to ride around town and filter on but it’s so planted at faster speeds you could munch up the miles and the seat is pretty comfortable
Yes it feels heavier than the 1250 when you push it around.....
Fantastic review! Would you reccomend this restricted to an a2 license? Furthermore please could you do a full in depth look and review of the BMW TFT just like you have done with the triumph one? Many thanks in advance.
I have always wondered why BMW didn't put a boxer engine in the 850. By all accounts it is one of the best engines out there. The adventure riders seem to love it for it's low center of gravity. The shaft drive seems to be nearly bullet proof. Why didn't they just down size the boxer and make the 850 a smaller version of 1250? Do you have any thoughts?
Yes I completely agree, if they did a smaller capacity boxer with shaft drive on this bike it would be a world beater!! As it is it's just too heavy to shift around even compared to it's bigger heavier brother the 1250 GS....
@@TheMissendenFlyer I think boxer engine is a bit low and can hit the surface in bad roads. So this bike is a bit more oriented towards off road. But I agree I would prefer smaller boxer engine, and use it in city or highway
Blimey did you rediscover this vid at the back of the cupboard, spring?
Something like that - I do tend to record well in advance, I have videos already recorded that aren’t scheduled to be published until next Spring!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Slovenia! 👍👍👍
I’ll need advice- I have the R1200 GS Dec/17 with everything ESA & hillstop assist. What are your thoughts on trading it in for the Triumph RS Street Triple? Help. I tour once a year for 2 weeks & city riding rest of the time in Sunny & wet Singapore
Hmm, I'm thinking maybe the Street triple would be a better choice then - I take it you've had a decent test ride?
Have not. But I believe it has pretty much same power , lighter & just as economical. It would be a slimmer Diavel that I had before. It’s 30k Singapore dollars here , my Gs was 48k 7 months old. I can’t get rid of it now at 41k.
Nice bike....I love these mid-sized ‘tall-rounders’. Sensible power, sensible price, great tank size and parallel twins are brill. Looks like you could ride it all day, though I’d prefer a quadrophonic swing arm for that price! 😉😉. Very nice review!
Yep I've just gone for one , tried the standard gs and was desperate bad on wind noise but rest of bike was great so the Adventure spec will be better for wind I hope!
I see they are using the 850 gs for the International GS Trophy in Feb 2020 in New Zealand its, going to be interesting to see.
Really? I wasn't aware of that....
Nice review & bike. Looks good too. To me this makes a lot more sense than the 1250 in most ways, especially in the UK unless you ride two up most of the time or you're in Europe going up and down the Autobahn frequently.
I agree - this size of bike hits the sweet spot for real road riding...
Rage Rider I agree, think I’ll be down sizing next time I change bikes. So many great middleweights out there and much better vfm.
@@TheMissendenFlyer,, in my opinion, 90-100hp is just about right for everyday road riding.
@@neilb4297 Yep. Agree totally. There are so many great middleweights of every make and type flooding the market now. Plus the performance of middleweights now is practically the same as "big" bikes only a few years ago, which incidentally is more than enough for the road.
I had the old F800GSA, it was a nose diver... How about the new one?
I forgot to mention that the screen and seat you have on this bike is not standard. The Rallye comes with a really small screen (more for off roading) and a bench seat that is quite high and hard for that matter (like a KTM). I think the screen was taken off an exclusive model and as you say a low seat was put on for you. I have put one of those clamp on screen extenders for now and it works fine for me at 6ft tall.
Yes I think you're right - I hate those useless small screens!
Hey,
once again a very good test ride video. I value them very much as I am working on my licence (Germany) at the moment and am in the market for a motorcycle. So your test rides help me a lot to figure out what kind of bike could be something for me.
And I was looking for that wiper thingy you have on your left hand but couldn't find it anywhere. Could you please provide a link to that item as I consider to have one of these for me as well?
Thx very much and keep up the great work. I am looking very much forward to some new tours which I am sure you will share sooner or later. I love the Scotland tour and Norway. Awesome videos from there!
Greeting from Germany
Thanks for Another nice review Andy and for pickling my head 😂 I have been looking at this one and the R1250RS
Get a 1250.
I prefer the R1250RS if the budget stretches....less heavy feeling and more go!
Nice review as always. Bike seems really good too. Cheers!
Just rewatching this review TMF. How does the weight distribution compare with the recent Africa Twin AS you reviewed, ie low down weight vs high up weight ? Is it more similar to the big GS ? Great review by the way. Thanks
No - more similar to the AT but worse - the 850GS is very top heavy IMO - feels heavier than a 1200/1250GS to move arouind
How is the pillion seat compared to the bigger 1250? Asking for my mrs!
Very similar….
Good little review (as always)
How is this Beemer in crosswinds? I currently ride a Yammie XT660R, and that one is really like a bucking bronco in crosswinds. That would be on the top of my list for requirements as the coastal winds here in summer are a bit rough.
I dunno unfortunately - didn't get to try it on a windy day...
The 800gs was horrible in crosswinds, the Africa is way better.
Thanks for the great review. I am having a hard time deciding between the Tiger 900 Rally pro and the F850GS…. Any thoughts for me MrFlyer?😊
I’d have the Tiger, the BMW feels way to heavy…
@@TheMissendenFlyer thank you.👍 I guess touring 2 up even on the normal GS (not adventure) is a big no no ?!
Actually no - the "normal" GS actually feels much lighter to ride than the F850 as it carries it's weight much lower, the normal GS is a joy to live with, the F850 is a pain IMO!
I just did a test ride on the 850…. You are so right…It felt like such a pain in the backside… no comparison with the Tiger. The gear changes felt awkward and I could feel a thump in the clutch on every up and downshift from 15mph. Felt much less nimble and agile than the tiger 900. The GS offers a fairly plush ride overall but I would never take it off road. My choice is made Khaki Tiger 900 Rally Pro it is!
Hi! Mr. TMF, I am going to buy either the BMW F850 GS or the F850 GSA. Could you please help to decide which one is a better all around motorbike, considering that whichever I will pick would be fully equipped. I will very much appreciate your opinion. Thanks in advance. Guillermo
I find them both too top heavy personally - out of the two I’d have the GS - the GSA will be even more top heavy!!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Ok. One more question Mr. TMF: If there is one mid-sized adventure bike (650-900cc) that you could recommend, what would be this? Yet again, thanks in advance, I value your opinion.
Nine months after buying my F850 GS Sport in September 2018 and commuting into central London every day over the winter I felt that the weight was too high up and the bike didn't feel as stable at low speeds as I would like. I am also not tall at 5ft 7in. I also found the fork dive had become disconcerting and the font forks on these are non-adjustable. Yes I appreciate it's an adventure bike but I preferred the up-right position for commuting. On that basis the F850 GSA is a non-starter for me. I was already being drawn to the 1200 GS by the lower weight and the telelever suspension (the latter TMF didn't mention) and felt these would cure my issues. However, insuring the 'big' GS on a London postcode is ridiculously expensive. An accident when commuting home at the end of May wrote the bike off and I am now undecided what to buy next. Also learned a lesson: buy gap insurance! My non-fault accident will likely see me £2-3k out of pocket. Any suggestions TMF?
Move?
Hi TMF - so it would be fair to say that in comparison with the 1200 or 1250 it lacks top end grunt? I guess that the drawback wouldn’t just apply to speed but also to pick up etc when fully loaded for a tour? A friend had one of the earlier models and toured all over Europe but now knows what he was missing with the 1209GS - a fair comment? Anyway, a fine review as always and thanks from Portugal! Yours aye, Alan
Great video and all, but I have a q. You did now 2 f850GSA videos, and 0 F850GS videos, why is that?
I'm really interested in the lighter and cheaper 850. Is there a chance you will do it in the future?
Love your reviews ,but wish you would mention first service cost and major service costs especially given B.M.W.'S prices. It is becoming more of a consideration when purchasing a new bike . My Triumph dealer servicing I have found out since purchasing my bike is pretty horrendous ,don't think I will be keeping the bike long term .
Michael Evans agree completely triumph main dealer prices are outrageous. There are alternatives in England? Check out “ muddy sump” great independent triumph mechanic
@@johnward3490 Just booked a service with the motorcycle barn Swanbourne Aylesbury . Ten thousand mile service £175 .
That middleweight adventure category is getting very competitive, but that scaffolding at the back is fugly compared to other manufacturers that are doing integrated panniers
Good review, although at 5ft8in with a 30inch inseam this is way too tall for me. The din socket in 12v, usb is 5v so the din supports a range of other accessories other than mobile phones or sat nav (heated clothing springs to mind) that aren’t supported by usb. The din is also much more stable and less likely to jiggle loose. Maybe the question should be why don’t manufacturers provide both?
Anthony Price . I know right?? It really makes taking these bikes off road a struggle. I have a GSA which is factory lowered, but it’s still just a bit too tall and makes some off road riding a bit hairy!
Hi Sir, a submission from India. I am out to buy one of mid size adventure bikes. I believe this video is before the 900 Rally Tiger was launched. If you were to put your money today between 850GS Adventure and Tiger 900 Rally, which one would you choose. I ride bike for almost the same reasons as you do. Lots of weekend rides and short trips and twice a year I take out for long 8-12 days trips. The ratio of road to offroads is about 75:25 I would say. Hoping a comment on an old video catches your attention. Thanks in advance.
I'd have the Tiger in a heartbeat - so much lighter feeling and much easier to live with....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks for the prompt reply. 🙂
I’m looking at this exact model used or the tenere 700. Thanks for the great review as always
No problem 👍
Great review TMF and I agree, at standstill loving around it feels such a heavy bike and not well balanced especially getting it onto the centre stand. I’ve a 2018 GS Adventure so know what heavy feels like but this is at the limit. Also dives so much in those standard forks, just didn’t like it but I do live the looks of the GSA version of the 850👍
Interesting to see that the side stand is considerably shorter than on my standard F850 GS which is a nightmare - you really have to be careful where you park up.
Same here, BMW wouldn't replace mine even though they know its to long, strange thing is, they have replaced for others.
@@fastfrankee Interesting to know - I will try BMW Carlisle and let you know how I get on.
@@robindown, Thanks would appreciate that.
Lol I’ve just asked a question about the opposite problem. I guess it must all be a compromise
@@andrewwatson9586 Intrigued by this - I have seen the same comment on an F850 Forum. The side stand on my F850 is approx 325mm - are they fitting different stands to the same bike or am I missing something?
Looks like a good bike and another great couple of reviews. I'm glad BMW have put the exhaust on the right on this model, having it on the left on several older models always spoilt the looks. This looks much better.
The only real disadvantage I can see over the bigger GS's is the lack of shaft drive, particularly if it's being used as a long distance tourer. That said, as a mid sized tourer I still wonder if the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, is much better value or money.
Was this shot I’m the Norwich area? I recognized the bridge and the boats. I visited a friend there in March.
No....Marlow in Buckinghamshire.
Nice review, man!
I think I would buy one just for that Sat Nav configuration and control. Thanks again Sir.........Sal : )
Mmmm....I’m more and more drawn to the middleweight division TMF. It’s hard to justify the extra cost of ‘BIG’ bikes when these are so good. And when I was younger 850 was a BIG big bike!
Yep Absolutely agree. There are so many to choose from, and i think maybe easier to live with?
Agreed, best get some test rides sorted 🤔👍🏼
Thanks for this video Andy, even if spring is well past sprung. I've been curious about the F850GS or a 1250GS to replace my V-Strom 650 next season. It took a fair number of additions and edits to make the V-Strom pleasurable to ride, and even now that I like it, it's not a long termer as it's not sufficiently quick to avoid some of the dangerous manoeuvres made on the 400 series highways here at home. Will be arranging demo rides at my dealer but this was a good introduction so thanks again.
Did you ride this bike before or after the F750GS Sport?
Thinking of getting the 750.
Much difference between the two?
After - not a lot of difference to be fair, I preferred this though due road presence, extra tank capacity, etc...
TheMissendenFlyer
Cheers
Good deals on BMW F750GS
Standard bike £1500 deposit £69 a month
I have the opportunity to purchase an adventure bike. I have $25k (AUD) to spend. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro is just shy of that and the GSA Rallye is on special here (in this spec) at £22k. Additionally, I could put the Akropovic exhaust on the GSA and still come out below cost of the Rally Pro. What would you lean towards Mr. Flyer? ...I'm a Adventure bike novice but would certainly be looking at offroad schooling as time passes. I'm 182cm and 82kg. Thanks in advance!
Rally pro - much lighter and sportier feeling....
@@TheMissendenFlyer That's where I'm leaning. Thanks for your input
Hey, awesome review! This can be restricted for A2, right?
Err, not sure - best check on that one....
I would never change my Vstrom 1000 XT for this BMW, sure it has a lot of good electronic stuff but when ridding it probably does not come close. And Made in China is also not my thing, price is also an issue.
Fair enough!
Going by the VIN number, my '15 BMW F800R is made in Germany. It's very easy to check where a bike is made by the VIN number.
@@jurgentreue1200 I wonder about Vins. My Triumph seems to indicate made in the UK. But then I am told that it was made in Thailand. Maybe final assembly on the frame was in the UK with lots of Thai components. Triumph do not seem to want to say.
I wouldn’t change my V Strom 1000 for this either, better value for money and far cheaper to run, lighter and faster plus it’s a V twin 👍
Vehicle manufacturers source parts from other companies and often from other countries. Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension for example. The country of manufacture is where to assembly line is, one would think.
Oh now you've got me thinking do I go for this or its bigger brother or the African twin for my first adventure bike coming from a z800
So many great choices!
@@TheMissendenFlyer I know I'm stuck ha
Good problem to have!
I guess yeah al go test rides probably my best bet really like the look of the 850 gsa alot of bike.whats the on the road price of the one you were on buddy
@@jamiefetter5251 I did trade in my 800gs for Africa Twin and I am enjoying the Honda way more, but never tested the new 850.
Been hoping you'd do the 850! Cheers!
Lots more to come on this bike Dan!
Even if I ride a Honda, I have to admit that the 850 GSA is the best buy in Europe... Probably the V Strom 1050 might be an alternative option, but the GSA has more of road skills!
I had the 800gs, good bike, but traded it in for the Africa Twin. Found the gs really buzzy and lacking low end torque. Sounded like a sewing machine, as well. I wonder how much improved this newer version is? Love the new display. Enjoying the Honda much more. The one main advantage the 800gs had was better cornering due to lighter weight.
Great review Mr. I've just configured one on the BMW site, 13K, which I think is great value, for the same spec Tiger it is close to 14k. You are giving me a lot to think about , I've got a 2017 Tiger xca, which is good but not great.
The 12 volt socket can be used for a compressor not just for phones and sat nav if it was usb important on a proper adventure bike why don’t BMW make a navigation app for your phone that shows up on the main screen like ktm that you could control through the wizz wheel to save having to install the separate navigation the bracket for which spoils the look of all there bikes great review as always
Yes I agree - only a matter of time surely?
BMW make a lot of money from their sat nav 👍
Big tank, recon the range would be good. Would you bother getting the 1260 when this is available? 🤔
Err, which 1260 Scott?
@@TheMissendenFlyer 1250 then, must have been thinking of the Multistrada. 😁
spring! I had to check the posted date.!
...well it was Spring when I recorded the video...apologies if it confused you...
@@TheMissendenFlyer i guess the f850gs rallye has no cruise control....just teesing you...keep up the great work...look foward to the air/ground race vid.
Finally a good video on my dream Adventure bike, would be cool if these got a Boxer engines as well.
how tall are you? i am 181 and in store these bikes look kinda tall and difficult to handle in town traffic.
I'm 5'8" in old money....
Spring is the new Fall.Probably.
Another GS review. I was hoping for the norton review. # patiently waiting
...currently scheduled for October the 7th...sorry for the wait...
Wonder why they moved away from the shaft drive?
The older mid range bikes were never shaft drive, just the 1200/1250s.....
It's Spring in Australia if that's any consolation.
;0) ...sadly it's not!!
And we're having nice riding weather in my part of Australia lately. Not bad for the first week of Spring. It's been sitting around 24-25 degC the last few days.
That would be great for our Summer!
Morning. Do patreon people get to see the vlog before everyone else? This could explain the thumbs up and comments only moments after the vlog has been released.
Nope, everyone gets to see my videos at the same time...I often get comments before the video could possibly have been watched too!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Careful, with fans like that you'll be needing security when you go out! 😬
glad to see this one TMF thanks
do an comparison to the africa twin adventure sports to this bmw...
Nice one Tmf good review .good looking bike in blue as well.thanks from Danny