Top work! I'd be interested to see the other half of our dynamic duo ride it also for thoughts. Perhaps both out together on English roads, they are always fun even without something like this to chat over.
Switching to N (neutral) and revving as much as you want to impress ladies 😄Another thing is when you filtering in tight traffic, on low speed, and wants to warn car drivers about your presence - this is not an option anymore😅
I have an Africa Twin DCT and it’s brilliant, particularly as I’ve had a left knee replacement and don’t have to worry about gear changes. As you said in commentary Chris, it’s the way to go for an awful lot of people. Thanks for the video; cheers, Andy.
Due to falling off a bike my left leg does not work, so I have to drive automatic cars and bikes would be a problem too obviously. However with the advent of new tech in cars even sporty cars now have excellent gearboxes that let you manual or easy auto modes and are quicker than humans, so it is nice with a peg leg to have a choice. Hopefully the same will happen with bikes. Manual clutch control is useful of course for dumping the clutch for dicking about though !! But these automated manuals etc allow the best of both worlds other than that. It's a lifetime away from dull auto boxes of yore.
I like it. I’ve an SFV4s grey nero. Use the quick shifter up and down, only ever need to use the clutch in slow control. So handy. Gear shifts are faster. Arguably smoother than u could do manually
Soooo enjoyable…. Honda DCT owners from the 2010 VFR to the 2016 and onward Africa Twin are just loving all this!!! Laughing our asses off!!😂🤣 Love how complicated and absurd BMW made something Honda did so simple. 😂🎉 In my best Bruce Willis voice……Welcome to the party pal!!😂🤣😂
Im a Future Honda Africa twin owner but wont Take the dct because of the extra 10kg BMW does it with 2kg and ktm even with only 1kg extra. So manual africa Twin für me. Even thiugh the system Works great
@@xMROHNZx Ahhh-hahahaha…. Throwing 14years of Honda engineering, real world riding and thousands of miles of reliability into thinking BMW or KTM is worth up to 10kg lighter!!🤣 They’re all just oversized street bikes!
I’ve had 15k miles of this genius on my AT DCT. But the AT has the shifting linked to the IMU so it doesn’t shift when you’re leant over. It’s a brilliant system (and you don’t notice the extra weight because it’s so low down)
@@xMROHNZx thats why Honda also offer the eClutch on some bikes now and its still a much more simple system... classic BMW over complicated and late the the party
I did have this exact model on order in Australia with the ASA, total on road cost was $43,000. At the same time of order, they had the R1250 model run out at considerably less. I ended up purchasing the R1250GSA Rallye model for $31,000 . Not sure I could justify an extra $12,000 for an auto. This is now my 4th GSA 1250. I just know them well and have never had a failure. After reading about the issues with the GS 1300, I think I will give the 1300 adventure a few years in the market before i make the change, and of course the $12,000 saving over the 1300 was also a major decision maker.
42yr old 100 mile a day London commuter checking in. I'm speccing the shit out of this bike. Give me radar, asa, high screen, anything to make my life easier. Comparing the cost to a train from my location, (I know... they're safer, but we're all bikers here) it's an easy purchase.
Excellent choice. The great thing about this is that not only makes your commute easier it also improves your smoothness from what Chris said, so its a double whammy and nothing being sacrificed. You would be likely quicker point to point as well than a none equipped bike being able to react quicker to gaps and traffic control devices.
Honestly Chris, I’ve got an H2SXSE which is superb, been all over Europe two up on it too, it’s now in sunny days only mode, but I also have a Honda Crosstourer DCT for touring two up fully laden now and it’s superb. It’s the way to go for this type of motorcycle👌🏽
Your enthusiasm has definitely sold the ASA version to me however I’ll wait patiently until the R1300GS comes with ASA in my part of the world to upgrade. (Penang) Great video and excellent quality! Well done and keep them coming! Cheers!
The one review I've been waiting for! when asked what i think about auto GSA i said ill wait for Chris from 44 teeth to tell me, love the feed back! " its like a ferrero rocher" new favourite line
I could actually be tempted. I reckon the foot shifter is the bit that has finally softened me up. The modern sports tourer perhaps? Long days in Auto and manual in the mountains.
The Honda Super Cub had no clutch lever on the handle bars in 1958, & DCT available on some of their bikes for over 10 years all at a price far lower available to most, in the form of Super Cub 125 & the newly re-release of the Dax 125. Well done BMW following it is what we need 👍
While I don’t plan on switching away from a manual bike yet, I’m glad this tech is improving and coming out from more manufacturers. I’ve got a left foot injury and if it were to get worse, having options like this from manufacturers would be nice
And what about Yamaha's FJR's automatic clutch? I've been owning one from 2007. Nice tech but unconfortable bike for me personally. Ended up with 1200rt, as confy as a sleepers. I didn't like 1250rt upgrade for sportier ergo, I hope 1300RT will do better.
I have a '16 Honda VFRX Crosstourer with the DCT transmission. 47k trouble free and fun miles. Just oil changes. Honda came to the show over a decade ago!
The GS is the perfect bike for ASA. If you're using your bike for touring, this makes perfect sense. Obviously you're not going to fit it to a Panagale, but this type of tech laden bike is probably the way forward
I think it’s interesting that they went with the traditional gear lever rather than buttons on the switch gear. Didn’t occur to me at first but I prefer the gear lever.
Makes total sense especially on an adventure or touring bike - let’s face it, how many high spec road cars do you see now? Should be buttery smooth with BMW’s background. Okay Chris, I’m sold on it - you do realise you have done more PR in a very positive sense than BMW’s marketing wing could ever achieve 😎
Even though I am not vertically challenged being a solid 5’10”, I would still spec with the height control as it would make things more stable on tricky ground. I.e. those rare occasions ground is a bit further away on one side than the other, stopping ina poorly laid lay-by, with dip in the surface or off road. Like you say, go all in!
I test rode the Honda transalp and then tried the Africa Twin DCT. I loved the DCT Africa Twin, such a good bike, at no point did I ever want a clutch lever. I eventually bought the CF Moto 800MT due to the value for money but I think when I start to do more euro touring, the DCT or E clutch will be my next move, they’re so good.
Was waiting for your review of this! I’m impressed how impressed you were 👍🏻 I road a 1300gs with the ASA, loved it. Only went for the clutch twice whilst riding it, nearly forgot to put my feet down at one point though 😂 I’ve ordered a 1300GSA with ASA, it’s amazing (Red the best colour)
Sometimes it can be a struggle to feather the clutch and change the indicator at the same time when on a roundabout, this would no longer be an issue. Personally i think this is cool and im looking forward to test riding a "clutchless" bike.
Great review Chris, I'm not currently shopping for a GS\A but do own a 2010 VFR 1200 F DCT and my opinion (for what it is worth) is that when you 'get it', you really do 'get it'. When you live with it (and it does take a few months) it grows on you, I LOVE the handlebar buttons. As you you head towards a corner, you touch a thumb button and the bike rev-matches perfectly. Good riding is about being smooth, nothing better than a DCT or auto-box\clutch. Welcome to the future 😁😎
Yeah, I'd have an ASA equipped bike. I definitely get a demo and when I come to change my current 1250, it's more than likely the way I'll go. I think the handling difference is due to the GSA having slightly more aggressive steering geometry. I believe this was to compensate for the extra weight.
Those of us with thousands of miles under our belts with the old GSA understand your enthusiasm for this tech completely. ASA is indeed the way for the GSA. I'd take the radar system for sure though, how often have you found yourself making micro adjustments to your cruise control or simply turned it off altogether because of the erratic drivers in front of you? Another annoyance solved. This bike is all about that easy living on two wheels. Getting weak over here, this video definitely helped.
@Waldo1122 no offense fella but christ you probably shouldn't be biking if this is the experience you've had. 7 bikes in now. Never had any of this. Although I did change the clutch basket on the dl650 I had after 80k miles.
@@listerthat You've never had the experience of pulling a heavy clutch lever to shift gears? You never had a false neutral? You've never practiced slow speed maneuvering? You've never rode a 1200-1300GS and experienced the very well known janky quickshifter?
@Waldo1122 ya maybe about 15 years ago. Modern bikes aren't like that. Let's be real the last GSA is perfectly fine. I'm tackling your premise that it's not. also questioning your skill levels frankly.
Watching this video, it wasn't clear by the end whether you liked it or not🤣 I tested the regular GS1300 and thought it was a huge improvement on the 1250 in nearly every way. It does look like an amazing package but it is still huge and heavy and I do quite a lot of urban riding/parking and short trips. As someone with just one bike, I'm not sure I'd get my adrenaline rush with a GSA so I've just pre-ordered the Triumph Tiger Sport 800 as I think it'll be more fun on a daily basis. Time will tell.
Interesting - you appear as impressed with it as I was with an Africa Twin with DCT. I bought one and sold it quite quickly though as ultimately I didn't like not being in full control - even in manual mode. A lot of people love them and I dare say on a long tour when you're knackered and in a place you don't know at night etc etc it would be nice to have. But I didn't like it. That said, this was 8 years ago so things might be a bit better nowadays.
IMO, BMW GS's/ GSA's are still king of the road & a slight step ahead of "all" the competition. Fortunately "for me" there are a couple of $10K and below adventure bikes that tick all my boxes/ riding needs, thus saving me lots of money.
Automatic mode sounds great but would prefer a clutch. You need this as a secondary brake when pushing a bike around, especially a bike Adventure bike.
I have owned the DCT Honda wing and it's also as you described the new GSA. However where the DCT needs a bit of work at times is in the mountain twisters. Once it learns your riding style for the most part Sport mode works well. I look forward to your thoughts when you can get her out on some more challenging roads.
Love to hear it Chris. Great video. I know different tech, but Aprilia did this with their Mana in 2008 and I'm riding an MV Turismo 800 SCS on a '68, so more BMv playing catch up 😂😉
33 year old that owns a 2014 Honda CTX700 fully faired with DCT (PERFECT daily commuter imo) smiling from ear to ear watching this. 1199s Panigale is my other bike btw.
I wouldn't chose a bike because of DCT or ASA. I want the boxer so dct never was s point. Now I'm curious if I'll like the ASA. It doesn't cost too much and adds not much weight. So perhaps it's somthing for me.
Totallly agree. My R1250GS is +3years and +42.000 km and also owned Honda DCT bikes for the last 11 years and +150.000 km. If i am going to buy the 1300GS it will be with ASA
Which honda? GW? I have a gw dct I tested the asa the other day and it is NOT smooth in D mode 2 to 3 is violent and jerks like you're riding a bull , may cancel my order.
Ordered mine five weeks ago to replace my 1250 GSA, and for me ASA is a must, as is the radar cruise if you do a lot of touring miles it will make a huge difference. Also had the fancy up and down suspension at 67 years old I do like feet planted with a bended knee. Thank you enjoyed your take on the bike...
Try before you buy, sure. Maybe something for a travel bike. I think I can get behind Honda's e-clutch a bit more because you still have to option to operate a clutch. You won't stall it either. I get that it is easier but I like the involvement. Spec it if you want it!
Thank you for this vid. Initially I thought you were driving the 13 with ASA, after watching your other vid on the Clutched Adventure. Wow, I'm sold, in about 2 years when I can afford it.. but will my trade-in on my BM be less then? lol Love it, want moar vids :)
I have no doubt that it's an amazing machine with excellent engineering. ...But it's an SUV. lol At least now you can sip your Starbs while you ride! And that's what adventure motorcycling is all about. :)
Glad the bike rode well for you. I was thinking it would have been nice to have a semi auto on my K1600 when I did the Alps last year. Sounds like Bimmer done a good job on the GS platform.
😅 It is a safety precaution to remove the clutch when you have to fiddle with switches, dials toggles and two touch screens... Don't forget to answer cell phone calls 🤙... On the go-go
I get it if people like the automatic, however, I struggle with accepting the idea myself. Part of what makes riding enjoyable to me is the rider engagement. Give me a quick shifter and I’m good. Although, I guess it could be argued that if you have a quick shifter you might as well just go automatic.
@@firstbloood1 Glad these auto systems are able to keep you on two wheels. I agree that they are a great thing for biking, just not for me…yet. Surely we’ll all be there someday. Ride safe.
I just got my first bike with a quickshifter and in my mind it's definitely what has paved the way for systems like this. After a short adjustment period the only time I'm using the clutch is when riding really gently because the quickshifter doesn't work well - that being the case, why would I really need it...
I had a 23 plate GS1250 Rallye, sold it and went back to a new Africa Twin. I found the GS a bit bland. This new 1300 looks interesting, might have to go test ride 😁 Great video ❤
I was a motoauto skeptic until shopping for a touring bike I tried Honda's. I told the salesman, that "thing is psychic," and bought it. Agree, not for the sports bike. The Honda one has transmission modes and they make a huge difference.
That's the thing about autos, good ones are brilliant and change when you would anyway. Bad ones do their own thing and drive you mad. (French car autos)
What's it like when moving the bike around slowly, where you would be slipping the clutch? It's the one place I miss the clutch on my DCT M4 BMW car. You have to tap the throttle to engage the gear, something you get used to but its not quite got the finesse of using the clutch. Once moving its brilliant and the shifts are brilliant and driving fast it makes total sense.
There is a reason maxi-scooters are HUGELY popular. If you just need a two wheeled vehicle to get around… why not. Without trying to be facetious, the auto GSA is basically a big maxi-scooter, for longer distance.
Would be interested to see how the ASA handles in situations where you ordinarily need to feather the clutch like on some slightly more technical sections of off-road tracks. I wonder how clever the BMW engineers have been in that respect. I suspect that might be a reason to spec the clutch on the GSA if you ride a bit of that stuff like I do on my 1250 GSA. Happy to be proven wrong. If you get a chance in Spain to give it a crack.... Thx. Enjoy the trip!
Maybe it feels nicer because it keeps the frame under tension...in the same way riding the rear brake at slow speeds gets you stability from gyro inertia.
I have a Honda NC 750 DCT and honestly it's fantastic. Proper lazy rider. The Hondas have like 3 sport modes and a fully manual mode too, where it won't change up unless you tell it but it will change down and won't stall either which is pretty cool. Its not hard to change them either and they're pretty self explanatory. Might go for the Twin Africa DCT next.
Even in manual the NC should change up to protect itself and stop you damaging the engine in the red zone, plus it will change down eventually if you don’t to stop the bike stalling.
This freedom to use your left hand for anything, launch instantly without even putting your hand back; just that feeling of not having to worry, is why I love my zero. But this Beemer has character and a visceral feeling the electric is obviously lacking. after this test, I'm really tempted to spend the children's inheritance. However... it is an over-complicated BMW, with loads of things to go wrong; I may just ride vicariously on this one... Stick to my Guzzi when I want to feel more alive (uncomfortable) and the effortless Zero when I want my left hand back - 95% of the time.
I've been out on my sons 2005 Aprilia RS 125 stroker with his L plates on today on the North Yorkshire moors, it was absoloutly brilliant, the handling,the brakes the feeeel...but above all the soundtrack..oh yes and I even turned around once to see if I could sniff myself and if I'd kept my lid on nobody would have known I'm 57 on Sunday .. two stokes make you think, automatics make you , er , automatic ?
I definitely think all large adventure bikes and big tourers like the goldwing and bmw rt should be semi auto those bikes are used long distances and for comfort in mind.
How do you get on doing a U-turn at slow speed? I was taught to spin the engine and slip the clutch, against some rear brake. This keeps the bike balanced in a tight turn. I don't think you can do this without a clutch control.
I went out for a test ride on the standard 1300 GSA this afternoon. Agree with most of what you summarised. Found the raised front of seat a bit of a ball cruncher though if I’m honest. Really want to try the ASA now having watched this. Could be the clincher. Wonder how good the ASA is on a hill start though? Wonder if it holds bike in a hill like an auto car does?
Does the ASA version change gears when going around roundabouts? This has really put me off buying an Honda DCT bike - Is the BMW ASA system any smarter? I.e, Can I ensure the ASA system will not change gears when slow cornering? The latest 2024 DCT system changes gears when going around roundabouts. This destabilizes the motorbike and has put me off DCT bikes altogether. Yet i really want an auto. It baffles me how manufactures have missed such a fundamental behaviour which you'd think would be elementary for an auto box on a motorbike.
I think the clutchless thing works well with that type of bike, My car is auto and prefer it but if i was after a little sports car i would probably want a clutch? It will probably catch on but the price may stop a lot. I think the new KTM 1390 adventure as this feature.
Yeah,all great but we are in a cost of living crisis and the cost of these new bmw,s is crazy.sticking with my 1250.its fine for me still.i couldn't take the Financial hit
I can't believe that you have never riden a Honda with a DCT gearbox, they've been available for years. My 2021 Africa Twin has DCT and it's literally the best thing ever for touring and playing on a weekend. Only issue is slow speed manoeuvring takes a bit of getting used to. You have to use the rear brake to control the power input.
I'm impressed by how impressed you are with it👍
right? I would expect chris to say "is good but if don't know how to operate a clutch, shouldn't have a license" 😝
I'm impressed by how your impressed by him being so impressed by the impressive ASA functionality….very impressive BMW😉
@@MrRodwatsonI’m impressed by how impressed you are with him being impressed with Baron being impressed with the very impressive GSA! Impressive! 😃
@@ktmtravels3727 it is impressive!
Yeah I would be impressed too if my relationship with bmw depended on it.
All the vid drops last few days, loving it 👍🏼
Top work! I'd be interested to see the other half of our dynamic duo ride it also for thoughts. Perhaps both out together on English roads, they are always fun even without something like this to chat over.
All good until the kid at the crosswalk gives the universal sign for rev it up...
Switching to N (neutral) and revving as much as you want to impress ladies 😄Another thing is when you filtering in tight traffic, on low speed, and wants to warn car drivers about your presence - this is not an option anymore😅
It’s a GS, nobody wants to hear it
😂@@Caksy12345
@@Caksy12345 lol
😂@@Caksy12345
I have an Africa Twin DCT and it’s brilliant, particularly as I’ve had a left knee replacement and don’t have to worry about gear changes. As you said in commentary Chris, it’s the way to go for an awful lot of people. Thanks for the video; cheers, Andy.
First signs of Middle age, Searching out the automatic transmission and radar assisted cruise control :-D
Perhaps it comes with the age, that you can afford it.
You are probably not wrong, but having switched to a ZF 8 speed auto in my BMW car I would never go back to a clutch.
@@223Sakointeresting. As I approach 40 I want to move away from an auto back to manual.
@@223Sako Exactly. That transmission is so good and shift faster than I can with the M
Due to falling off a bike my left leg does not work, so I have to drive automatic cars and bikes would be a problem too obviously. However with the advent of new tech in cars even sporty cars now have excellent gearboxes that let you manual or easy auto modes and are quicker than humans, so it is nice with a peg leg to have a choice.
Hopefully the same will happen with bikes. Manual clutch control is useful of course for dumping the clutch for dicking about though !! But these automated manuals etc allow the best of both worlds other than that.
It's a lifetime away from dull auto boxes of yore.
I like it.
I’ve an SFV4s grey nero.
Use the quick shifter up and down, only ever need to use the clutch in slow control.
So handy. Gear shifts are faster. Arguably smoother than u could do manually
Soooo enjoyable…. Honda DCT owners from the 2010 VFR to the 2016 and onward Africa Twin are just loving all this!!! Laughing our asses off!!😂🤣 Love how complicated and absurd BMW made something Honda did so simple. 😂🎉 In my best Bruce Willis voice……Welcome to the party pal!!😂🤣😂
Im a Future Honda Africa twin owner but wont Take the dct because of the extra 10kg
BMW does it with 2kg and ktm even with only 1kg extra.
So manual africa Twin für me. Even thiugh the system Works great
@@xMROHNZx Ahhh-hahahaha…. Throwing 14years of Honda engineering, real world riding and thousands of miles of reliability into thinking BMW or KTM is worth up to 10kg lighter!!🤣 They’re all just oversized street bikes!
@@Pcfly im Not complaining about the tech, which is great, Just the weight. Which is in my opinion quite alot.
I’ve had 15k miles of this genius on my AT DCT. But the AT has the shifting linked to the IMU so it doesn’t shift when you’re leant over. It’s a brilliant system (and you don’t notice the extra weight because it’s so low down)
@@xMROHNZx thats why Honda also offer the eClutch on some bikes now and its still a much more simple system... classic BMW over complicated and late the the party
I did have this exact model on order in Australia with the ASA, total on road cost was $43,000. At the same time of order, they had the R1250 model run out at considerably less. I ended up purchasing the R1250GSA Rallye model for $31,000 . Not sure I could justify an extra $12,000 for an auto. This is now my 4th GSA 1250. I just know them well and have never had a failure. After reading about the issues with the GS 1300, I think I will give the 1300 adventure a few years in the market before i make the change, and of course the $12,000 saving over the 1300 was also a major decision maker.
42yr old 100 mile a day London commuter checking in. I'm speccing the shit out of this bike. Give me radar, asa, high screen, anything to make my life easier. Comparing the cost to a train from my location, (I know... they're safer, but we're all bikers here) it's an easy purchase.
Excellent choice. The great thing about this is that not only makes your commute easier it also improves your smoothness from what Chris said, so its a double whammy and nothing being sacrificed. You would be likely quicker point to point as well than a none equipped bike being able to react quicker to gaps and traffic control devices.
Commuting 100 miles 5 days a week sucks in any possible scenario tbh
Yeah you should probably wait a year or two and buy a lightly used one to not get hit by depreciation too hard..
Honestly Chris, I’ve got an H2SXSE which is superb, been all over Europe two up on it too, it’s now in sunny days only mode, but I also have a Honda Crosstourer DCT for touring two up fully laden now and it’s superb. It’s the way to go for this type of motorcycle👌🏽
Your enthusiasm has definitely sold the ASA version to me however I’ll wait patiently until the R1300GS comes with ASA in my part of the world to upgrade. (Penang) Great video and excellent quality! Well done and keep them coming! Cheers!
The one review I've been waiting for! when asked what i think about auto GSA i said ill wait for Chris from 44 teeth to tell me, love the feed back! " its like a ferrero rocher" new favourite line
More I look at it and watch the reviews, ASA looks a good fit for me, and Vines are great, on my 3rd GS from them now, great review Chris.
I could actually be tempted. I reckon the foot shifter is the bit that has finally softened me up. The modern sports tourer perhaps? Long days in Auto and manual in the mountains.
You boys always working your socks off. R9 , this beast, likely lots more launches! Love to all and us 44T crew
The Honda Super Cub had no clutch lever on the handle bars in 1958, & DCT available on some of their bikes for over 10 years all at a price far lower available to most, in the form of Super Cub 125 & the newly re-release of the Dax 125.
Well done BMW following it is what we need 👍
While I don’t plan on switching away from a manual bike yet, I’m glad this tech is improving and coming out from more manufacturers. I’ve got a left foot injury and if it were to get worse, having options like this from manufacturers would be nice
Yep I ride an NC750X because of foot drop so can’t use a lever, shame BMW have decided not to put paddles on though.
Remember the Goldwing of 20 years ago? They have stuffed all the buttons that that bike got on the tank in the bars on any current bike... Amazing.
Honda DCT says welcome to 2010 BMW, I owned a 2010 VFR DCT, loved the DCT! Only took BMW 14 years!
This is not just DCT, same with the eClutch, this is the good stuff.
And what about Yamaha's FJR's automatic clutch? I've been owning one from 2007. Nice tech but unconfortable bike for me personally.
Ended up with 1200rt, as confy as a sleepers. I didn't like 1250rt upgrade for sportier ergo, I hope 1300RT will do better.
I have a '16 Honda VFRX Crosstourer with the DCT transmission. 47k trouble free and fun miles. Just oil changes. Honda came to the show over a decade ago!
makes you laugh... honda has had DCT for years and now eClutch and now BMW has finally caught up its suddenlly the best thing ever ROFL
A lot of it is also mindset, most are stuck in their ways.
Great review - your joy is felt.
Very much looking forward to your trip to Spain and thoughts afterwards!
The GS is the perfect bike for ASA. If you're using your bike for touring, this makes perfect sense. Obviously you're not going to fit it to a Panagale, but this type of tech laden bike is probably the way forward
That was a hormone calibrating experience, thank you! I want one!
So glad I found your channel. So fun. Thank you
I don't know if you've had the chance but watch the budget bike battles They're awesome
I think it’s interesting that they went with the traditional gear lever rather than buttons on the switch gear. Didn’t occur to me at first but I prefer the gear lever.
Makes total sense especially on an adventure or touring bike - let’s face it, how many high spec road cars do you see now? Should be buttery smooth with BMW’s background.
Okay Chris, I’m sold on it - you do realise you have done more PR in a very positive sense than BMW’s marketing wing could ever achieve 😎
Next BMW, a bike that rides its self and I stay at home in front of telly watching it.
Even though I am not vertically challenged being a solid 5’10”, I would still spec with the height control as it would make things more stable on tricky ground. I.e. those rare occasions ground is a bit further away on one side than the other, stopping ina poorly laid lay-by, with dip in the surface or off road. Like you say, go all in!
Good to hear Chris having a laugh 😊
I test rode the Honda transalp and then tried the Africa Twin DCT. I loved the DCT Africa Twin, such a good bike, at no point did I ever want a clutch lever. I eventually bought the CF Moto 800MT due to the value for money but I think when I start to do more euro touring, the DCT or E clutch will be my next move, they’re so good.
Was waiting for your review of this! I’m impressed how impressed you were 👍🏻 I road a 1300gs with the ASA, loved it. Only went for the clutch twice whilst riding it, nearly forgot to put my feet down at one point though 😂 I’ve ordered a 1300GSA with ASA, it’s amazing (Red the best colour)
Sometimes it can be a struggle to feather the clutch and change the indicator at the same time when on a roundabout, this would no longer be an issue. Personally i think this is cool and im looking forward to test riding a "clutchless" bike.
Great review Chris, I'm not currently shopping for a GS\A but do own a 2010 VFR 1200 F DCT and my opinion (for what it is worth) is that when you 'get it', you really do 'get it'. When you live with it (and it does take a few months) it grows on you, I LOVE the handlebar buttons. As you you head towards a corner, you touch a thumb button and the bike rev-matches perfectly. Good riding is about being smooth, nothing better than a DCT or auto-box\clutch. Welcome to the future 😁😎
Well, you’ve made me feel very excited with my bike purchase, it arrives next week, not ASA though.
Yeah, I'd have an ASA equipped bike. I definitely get a demo and when I come to change my current 1250, it's more than likely the way I'll go. I think the handling difference is due to the GSA having slightly more aggressive steering geometry. I believe this was to compensate for the extra weight.
Those of us with thousands of miles under our belts with the old GSA understand your enthusiasm for this tech completely. ASA is indeed the way for the GSA. I'd take the radar system for sure though, how often have you found yourself making micro adjustments to your cruise control or simply turned it off altogether because of the erratic drivers in front of you? Another annoyance solved. This bike is all about that easy living on two wheels. Getting weak over here, this video definitely helped.
The Old GSA clutch wasn't bad though (isnt) .
@@listerthat Shifting gears is bad, false neutrals are bad, burnt clutches are bad, janky quickshifters sre bad.
@Waldo1122 no offense fella but christ you probably shouldn't be biking if this is the experience you've had. 7 bikes in now. Never had any of this. Although I did change the clutch basket on the dl650 I had after 80k miles.
@@listerthat You've never had the experience of pulling a heavy clutch lever to shift gears? You never had a false neutral? You've never practiced slow speed maneuvering? You've never rode a 1200-1300GS and experienced the very well known janky quickshifter?
@Waldo1122 ya maybe about 15 years ago. Modern bikes aren't like that. Let's be real the last GSA is perfectly fine. I'm tackling your premise that it's not. also questioning your skill levels frankly.
Watching this video, it wasn't clear by the end whether you liked it or not🤣 I tested the regular GS1300 and thought it was a huge improvement on the 1250 in nearly every way. It does look like an amazing package but it is still huge and heavy and I do quite a lot of urban riding/parking and short trips. As someone with just one bike, I'm not sure I'd get my adrenaline rush with a GSA so I've just pre-ordered the Triumph Tiger Sport 800 as I think it'll be more fun on a daily basis. Time will tell.
Interesting - you appear as impressed with it as I was with an Africa Twin with DCT. I bought one and sold it quite quickly though as ultimately I didn't like not being in full control - even in manual mode. A lot of people love them and I dare say on a long tour when you're knackered and in a place you don't know at night etc etc it would be nice to have. But I didn't like it. That said, this was 8 years ago so things might be a bit better nowadays.
IMO, BMW GS's/ GSA's are still king of the road & a slight step ahead of "all" the competition. Fortunately "for me" there are a couple of $10K and below adventure bikes that tick all my boxes/ riding needs, thus saving me lots of money.
Automatic mode sounds great but would prefer a clutch. You need this as a secondary brake when pushing a bike around, especially a bike Adventure bike.
I have owned the DCT Honda wing and it's also as you described the new GSA. However where the DCT needs a bit of work at times is in the mountain twisters. Once it learns your riding style for the most part Sport mode works well. I look forward to your thoughts when you can get her out on some more challenging roads.
That was cool, made me want to try one, won't be getting rid on my MT10SP but would definetly try one for sure.
Definitely going to try one of these… On an Africa Twin DCT and wouldn’t go back to that clutch Malarkey anytime soon…
It’s overrated 😂
Love to hear it Chris. Great video. I know different tech, but Aprilia did this with their Mana in 2008 and I'm riding an MV Turismo 800 SCS on a '68, so more BMv playing catch up 😂😉
Brilliant. I'm seriously thinking about buying the Yamaha MT09 Y-AMT in the new year.
Game changer?? Honda Africa Twin! Done this for a couple of years. But...you are right...who needs a clutch. I'm on the Honda DCT and it's brilliant.
33 year old that owns a 2014 Honda CTX700 fully faired with DCT (PERFECT daily commuter imo) smiling from ear to ear watching this. 1199s Panigale is my other bike btw.
I wouldn't chose a bike because of DCT or ASA. I want the boxer so dct never was s point. Now I'm curious if I'll like the ASA. It doesn't cost too much and adds not much weight. So perhaps it's somthing for me.
Africa twin not in same league though is it ? 😂
@@PNH63Correct, it’s between £5-7K cheaper and is fantastic!
@@mclarnonc2002 If it's enough for you, fine.
Totallly agree. My R1250GS is +3years and +42.000 km and also owned Honda DCT bikes for the last 11 years and +150.000 km. If i am going to buy the 1300GS it will be with ASA
Which honda? GW? I have a gw dct I tested the asa the other day and it is NOT smooth in D mode 2 to 3 is violent and jerks like you're riding a bull , may cancel my order.
@@SP-xd8gs NC700X DCT 56.000km and now NC750X DCT with +95.000km. Have not tried ASA yet, but i do not expect it to be as smooth as DCT
@Ole.Schultz it's very violent shifts u can't do it w one hand
Ordered mine five weeks ago to replace my 1250 GSA, and for me ASA is a must, as is the radar cruise if you do a lot of touring miles it will make a huge difference. Also had the fancy up and down suspension at 67 years old I do like feet planted with a bended knee. Thank you enjoyed your take on the bike...
The green is nicer than the triple black this time around
When I test rode the 2024 ATAS DCT, I love it, especially in shitty ass traffic.
Try before you buy, sure. Maybe something for a travel bike.
I think I can get behind Honda's e-clutch a bit more because you still have to option to operate a clutch.
You won't stall it either.
I get that it is easier but I like the involvement.
Spec it if you want it!
Thank you for this vid. Initially I thought you were driving the 13 with ASA, after watching your other vid on the Clutched Adventure. Wow, I'm sold, in about 2 years when I can afford it.. but will my trade-in on my BM be less then? lol
Love it, want moar vids :)
Imagine how many old gits are going to rear end someone cause they are trying to figure out the menus
The sensible old gits will sort it before setting off not like this bloke.
I’m told, the ASA is a game changer by a BMW Sales guy! I wasn’t sure what he meant until I watched this!
Key words “sales guy”.
Did not expect it to be so refined. HIGH FIVE VER NICE
Looks great, 1 bike with clutch for off road, 1 bike without for cruising.
Great vid, love the enthusiasm, what's it like for real slow work, tight u-turns, etc?
I have no doubt that it's an amazing machine with excellent engineering.
...But it's an SUV. lol
At least now you can sip your Starbs while you ride! And that's what adventure motorcycling is all about. :)
Glad the bike rode well for you. I was thinking it would have been nice to have a semi auto on my K1600 when I did the Alps last year. Sounds like Bimmer done a good job on the GS platform.
Wait ‘til the new R1300RT debuts possibly at EICMA.
😅 It is a safety precaution to remove the clutch when you have to fiddle with switches, dials toggles and two touch screens... Don't forget to answer cell phone calls 🤙... On the go-go
I’ve been changing gear for decades so I’m ready for a change to trying this for my next bike. Looks like a logical progression.
I get it if people like the automatic, however, I struggle with accepting the idea myself. Part of what makes riding enjoyable to me is the rider engagement. Give me a quick shifter and I’m good. Although, I guess it could be argued that if you have a quick shifter you might as well just go automatic.
@@firstbloood1 Glad these auto systems are able to keep you on two wheels. I agree that they are a great thing for biking, just not for me…yet. Surely we’ll all be there someday. Ride safe.
I just got my first bike with a quickshifter and in my mind it's definitely what has paved the way for systems like this. After a short adjustment period the only time I'm using the clutch is when riding really gently because the quickshifter doesn't work well - that being the case, why would I really need it...
Wow, you forgot to use the "paid advert" in the movie ;)
Looks pretty interesting though on that kind of bike.
I had a 23 plate GS1250 Rallye, sold it and went back to a new Africa Twin. I found the GS a bit bland. This new 1300 looks interesting, might have to go test ride 😁 Great video ❤
You should definitely try new 2025 Africa Twin Adventure Sports😉
But, there’s a mode button on the right handlebar, just above the start button. It’s been there for years :)
I was a motoauto skeptic until shopping for a touring bike I tried Honda's. I told the salesman, that "thing is psychic," and bought it. Agree, not for the sports bike. The Honda one has transmission modes and they make a huge difference.
Had a go on an asa ..was swayed . But the trade in on my 3 month gs1300 was terrible ..so will wait a short while
That's the thing about autos, good ones are brilliant and change when you would anyway. Bad ones do their own thing and drive you mad. (French car autos)
What's it like when moving the bike around slowly, where you would be slipping the clutch? It's the one place I miss the clutch on my DCT M4 BMW car. You have to tap the throttle to engage the gear, something you get used to but its not quite got the finesse of using the clutch. Once moving its brilliant and the shifts are brilliant and driving fast it makes total sense.
really cool stuff I must say
That looks well impressive for the sort of biike. Plus you get to listen to all the 'bikes have too much tech' people every time you stop
When you changing riding mode it makes ASA engine map act different and change gears completely different
There is a reason maxi-scooters are HUGELY popular. If you just need a two wheeled vehicle to get around… why not.
Without trying to be facetious, the auto GSA is basically a big maxi-scooter, for longer distance.
pretty much, with good off road ability, higher speed and carry capacity
Would be interested to see how the ASA handles in situations where you ordinarily need to feather the clutch like on some slightly more technical sections of off-road tracks. I wonder how clever the BMW engineers have been in that respect. I suspect that might be a reason to spec the clutch on the GSA if you ride a bit of that stuff like I do on my 1250 GSA. Happy to be proven wrong. If you get a chance in Spain to give it a crack.... Thx. Enjoy the trip!
Maybe it feels nicer because it keeps the frame under tension...in the same way riding the rear brake at slow speeds gets you stability from gyro inertia.
Watching this with my vfr 1200 (albeit manual version) looking over my shoulder . Its got a sort of " I told you all" look on it's face.
I’ve had some Dirtbike’s with recluse and it’s pretty sick.
I have a Honda NC 750 DCT and honestly it's fantastic. Proper lazy rider. The Hondas have like 3 sport modes and a fully manual mode too, where it won't change up unless you tell it but it will change down and won't stall either which is pretty cool. Its not hard to change them either and they're pretty self explanatory. Might go for the Twin Africa DCT next.
Even in manual the NC should change up to protect itself and stop you damaging the engine in the red zone, plus it will change down eventually if you don’t to stop the bike stalling.
This freedom to use your left hand for anything, launch instantly without even putting your hand back; just that feeling of not having to worry, is why I love my zero. But this Beemer has character and a visceral feeling the electric is obviously lacking. after this test, I'm really tempted to spend the children's inheritance. However... it is an over-complicated BMW, with loads of things to go wrong; I may just ride vicariously on this one... Stick to my Guzzi when I want to feel more alive (uncomfortable) and the effortless Zero when I want my left hand back - 95% of the time.
Will have to have a go to see if it’s as good as Honda’s dct ✊🏻 I’m now intrigued!
Wish you had filmed your initial thoughts going back to the clutch. Very interesting for adventure and touring bikes.
I've been out on my sons 2005 Aprilia RS 125 stroker with his L plates on today on the North Yorkshire moors, it was absoloutly brilliant, the handling,the brakes the feeeel...but above all the soundtrack..oh yes and I even turned around once to see if I could sniff myself and if I'd kept my lid on nobody would have known I'm 57 on Sunday .. two stokes make you think, automatics make you , er , automatic ?
Great vid!
Now we got full auto rear brake at lean, auto gearbox. Maybe next we get gas pedal or auto lean for track, but at least an auto stoppie😂😅
Cant wait for them to bring it in the RT!
How to disengage the clutch and let it cruise for a short distance? Like you pull the clutch without changing gears on a regular bike
Can you try Honda Africa twin DCT and make a comparison video?
44T need to test a KTM 1390 SA AMT model back to back with this!
I'd love to see how it handles off road
can imagine this being very appealing to someone that maybe nervous about having a bike of this size and weight.
Totally agree it´s a game changer
just ordered :-) in triple black WITH ASA :-)
I definitely think all large adventure bikes and big tourers like the goldwing and bmw rt should be semi auto those bikes are used long distances and for comfort in mind.
How do you get on doing a U-turn at slow speed? I was taught to spin the engine and slip the clutch, against some rear brake. This keeps the bike balanced in a tight turn. I don't think you can do this without a clutch control.
Love it mate🤤
I went out for a test ride on the standard 1300 GSA this afternoon. Agree with most of what you summarised. Found the raised front of seat a bit of a ball cruncher though if I’m honest. Really want to try the ASA now having watched this. Could be the clincher. Wonder how good the ASA is on a hill start though? Wonder if it holds bike in a hill like an auto car does?
Does the ASA version change gears when going around roundabouts?
This has really put me off buying an Honda DCT bike - Is the BMW ASA system any smarter? I.e, Can I ensure the ASA system will not change gears when slow cornering?
The latest 2024 DCT system changes gears when going around roundabouts. This destabilizes the motorbike and has put me off DCT bikes altogether. Yet i really want an auto.
It baffles me how manufactures have missed such a fundamental behaviour which you'd think would be elementary for an auto box on a motorbike.
I think the clutchless thing works well with that type of bike, My car is auto and prefer it but if i was after a little sports car i would probably want a clutch? It will probably catch on but the price may stop a lot. I think the new KTM 1390 adventure as this feature.
Yeah,all great but we are in a cost of living crisis and the cost of these new bmw,s is crazy.sticking with my 1250.its fine for me still.i couldn't take the Financial hit
Great video again thanks….nice jacket?
I can't believe that you have never riden a Honda with a DCT gearbox, they've been available for years.
My 2021 Africa Twin has DCT and it's literally the best thing ever for touring and playing on a weekend.
Only issue is slow speed manoeuvring takes a bit of getting used to. You have to use the rear brake to control the power input.