Have ridden this new RT and I was absolutely blown away by the whole ride experience. In referrence to the sporty ergonomics, BMW have a Tall seat available, and bar risers to decrease the sportier angle of your knees if you are over 6 ft like myself. Very torn between the RT and the GSA for touring. Bugger!! Great review as usual mate. Thanks.
RT is smoother at highway speeds because it has a different rear end ratio, keeping you out of the buzz zone. Plus the weather protection is so much better on the RT. GSA is popular but it’s not a great road bike when sitting next to the RT. Off road adventures in your venues than GS for sure.
Dan positions the bike on the road beautifully. He is obviously a student of “Roadcraft”. Sometimes he’s too in the centre of the road on the straights but coming up to a corner the bike position is perfect
BMW has always made the best touring bikes! This one is the cats arse in comfort and handling! The quick throttle response is the highlight. The electronic gadgets are secondary. This one gets the blue ribbon for comfort on the long hauls!
I had this bike in 2016 and absolutely loved the bike, and I’ve ridden most bikes out on the road. FJR1300, Harley Ultra, Goldwing 2014, but I regret selling this bike. As far as the knees....that was one of things I didn’t like...the Goldwing had a better sitting position. However I would own this bike again. Enjoyed the review and great content !
@@Englishbikerdan amazing ride…It was a beautiful ride through Colorado, but I’m looking forward to riding back in my home country of England. 👍 I bought the bike with bar risers and a lowering kit on the foot pegs, which made a huge difference from my previous RT.
I rode one yesterday and thought I would add a few points here. First of all, the clutch is horrible. Lets out way late and is very hard to get used to especially when shifting under a lot of throttle. Maybe this can be adjusted, but it would be close to a deal breaker for me. Secondly, I think you understated the handling ability of this bike. It is nothing short of amazing. Very light front end, tips in and out like butter and would make a very good track time. Next is the riding position. I was able to raise the seat to its highest limit, which helped a lot, but my knees are still bent enough to make them slightly uncomfortable. (I have bad knees too). The wind protection is really good. Lastly, this thing is a BEAST at full acceleration. Pulls the front tire off the ground easily even in third gear. Goes from zero to holy shit in a hurry!!!
Yes, the clutch is adjustable, but with Shift Assist, why are you using it under high throttle shifts? ;) For $23 US I fixed the peg issue. th-cam.com/video/G2hHytluvpk/w-d-xo.html
LOL @ pipe and slippers :). There is a very good reason these bikes have been the choice of many police forces. I have this model in the LE model. Love it.
I have an R1200 RT ,a few ponies less and less torque, expect the spread of power to be less too. If you only think of 200 miles range, even the 1200 makes at 640km indicated, using 98 Ron fuel. Have only ridden to 580km, nerves ruled out further (Australia) still had more than 2 litres left. Like the look of new one, but only trade/ give away when reaching 250 to 300K so it's going to be a while! Prev was K1100 and the relaxing R12 is just so easy to ride, 1000K plus days are a breeze. Found the knee bend not a problem, hot days (35C) are a struggle with the lack of air flow around the riders front, paid back when it's cold! All in this is the best bike I've ever had except for being unable to service myself.
Riding position of authority indeed! No wonder the blue and fluorescent checkerboard yellow is popular :) Talking of knees my CBR650R below 10’c within an hour makes both knees feel like they’ve been beaten with a cricket bat
Nice review. I went from a ‘17 model to the ‘21 on April 17th. NO ONE should purchase this bike without a proper understanding of how the navigation system works! The system has three components the bike’s NAVI and TFT display, your smartphone and your communicator. All three can bring the system to a halt! If you have an iPhone the BMW Connected app must be called up and connected to the bike via WiFi with the app displayed on top of the phone. If for any reason the app is not displayed on top of the phone you immediately lose the map on the bikes TFT display. Getting the bike, the app, the smartphone and your communicator (did I mention the system will not work at all without a detectable communicator!) working together is no mean feat. A glitch anywhere in this entire system can easily bring the entire system crashing down. A review of this aspect of the bike would be doing your audience a tremendous service.
I got it working briefly and it seemed to be pretty easy to set up, but I'm on Android. Not sure about Apple. I'd have to have the bike on a long term basis for a thorough review. Hopefully in the future. Cheers!
Thanks for the insight, sometimes the helmet batteries die on a long run especially if listening to music on the motorway at high volume. Interesting to know that the sat nav function fails if the helmet head set fails, normally I just follow the visual information. How much data does the BMW app use, the added problem is that while the phone and data are switched on all the other apps will update using data allowance, expensive if free roaming is lost in time. Maybe I’ll stick with the Garmin, sod the wonder wheel!
I'll be honest, I'm not really a fan of sportsbikes on the road and I don't really see what I could show that would be interesting. It's a track weapon afterall.
I've got a 19 plate Rt am thinking of getting the new one , you can buy lower foot pegs and handle bar risers , they do make a massive difference to your legs and arms if you feel they are too low , brill video 😊
I had a 2017 and recently bought the 2021. Before you bight the bullet I highly recommend that you experience the navigation system as much as possible. I’ve had the bike for almost a month with about 600 miles on it and the Navi system is so painful I’m thinking of dumping the bike for a 2021 Multistrada. The system uses a smartphone, a communicator and the the bike’s TFT display. Getting them all to work in concert is no small feat! I’m on a four day trip now and I have yet to obtain visual or verbal route guidance! Any time you shut the bike off you then need to reestablish WiFi connection before a map will display. If you have a working smartphone but the bike doesn’t detect a communicator too bad, the entire Navi system will be unavailable. One glitch in any of the three components (bike NAVI/TFT, smartphone & communicator) can bring the Navi process to a dead stop. I’ve yet to figure out how to add a new destination from the bikes Navi menu! Frustrating is an understatement. Take heed. Also compared to the 2019 unit the cockpit display is pure torture. I have yet to figure out how to get it to display tire pressure! My recommendation would be to wait for another year or two or three!
Ah the R1250RT. For the BMW dad that saw 'Long Way Round', liked it, but is honest with himself. "You know, Ewan and Charlie looked so cool and I liked the GS. But do I *really* need the round-the-world-do-everything GS, when all I would use it for is going up-and-down motorways?" *sees the RT in the same showroom* "Now, *that's* more like it. It's comfy, pretty quick, and suits what I would actually use it for." Not knocking on it. I actually quite like it!
any bike engine with the crankshaft in line with the length of the bike will try to rotate the bike with a neutral rev. like BMW's 750 three cylinder back in the 90's.
Nice review and video. I have a 2015 F800GT and am very pleased with it, but I am interested in upgrading to the RT for a number of reasons. My only concern is the weight. However I noticed you said once you are moving on the RT, the weight is tolerable.
Thanks for this review, would love to see what you think about the K1600 compared to this. I wonder if the price difference is worth it or if you actually like the feel of this better.
A review I left on my FB page. I was given one while my RT was in the shop.....Well, the BMW K1600 was an experience. Not often I can say that a bike makes mine feel small. For what was supposed to be a drop my bike off and pick up a loaner and go home, turned into a 200 mile blast. So, would I have one? ....Yes and No. The engine is incredible and the power addictive - 5th gear overtake of 2 fast moving lorries in one go was like the Enterprise going to Warp. It has so much power that it makes you lazy. I found myself short shifting and running around in 5th gear ....even pottering along in town at 15mph in 5th at 1.5K was a doddle. However, although it does a good job of hiding its 400KG weight and I was easily able to do feet up U-turns, there were times when pushing it hard that the weight and length made things a little squirrely. Overall a fantastic machine to take you across continents with ease and still make you smile in the twisty bits
@@krytenLister Gotta agree with all you point out about the K16. Great bike but hard to live with at very low speeds unless you're built like a heavyweight boxer. I traded my GT for a R1200RS after experiencing filtering on the M25 with pillion and full luggage on a hot day. Exhausting. I didn't have the reverse gear either so you really had to pay attention parking as well. Sadly the RS had to go as the missus reminded me every ride how much more comfortable the GT was. I've settled on the R1200RT for now.
On the fence between the RT and the GS.The RT is appealing,the GS is appalling looks wise,imo.The GS is a better all arounder I would think.I'll give one a go,and decide.Great review Dan,thanks.👍👍
My dad got one of these 2021 with the "normal" seat height. He is 6'4 and loves the ergos. My short, only 5'10 ass with a 30" inseam can barely touch the ground after making sure the seat is in the lowest position. Anyway it is literally impossible for me to park on any sort of slope because I can't get the thing off the kickstand. Also can't lean over at all without dropping it. Way too heavy and too tall for a lot of riders, especially considering your knees are so bent while riding it. When my dad went to test drive I took the R1250R instead and absolutely loved the thing and it had great ergos. Really wish BMW would realize not all of its potential customers are giants.
@@TheMaximBond a few. after 8 years, the fuel pump went out, then the fuel gauge , then the radio stopped working.... also I am getting too old to keep lifting it up when i dump it in the driveway because its so damned top heavy at low speeds.....I love the New RT. check out my youtube channel. I have already posted several videos showcasing its tech. th-cam.com/channels/GVMwB0TAUIyb3Bkh-sHwJw.html
Excellent review as always- 2 things which I noticed- Firstly large phones like iPhone pro Max don't fit the pocket unless you remove the phone cover so needs to go in tank bag...Im sure at least one guy designing the bike would have had a large phone and thought maybe it don't fit. Secondly if you are using the maps via the phone and your phone keypad locks the map on the screen on bike will stop working....So basically you leave your phone unlocked and you end up ringing all your mates while phone is tank bag...hopefully software update will solve that. Mark
Hi Mark, I didn't have the phone lock issue. The map seemed to work well with my phone attached in the cubby hole (Andriod). Maybe they've updated the software already. I guess some phones are just a bit too big! Cheers!
The gov in the UK spent a lot of money deciding on the most unappealing colour possible to put on cigarette packs to discourage people from smoking. The colour they picked looks exactly the same as the one BMW decided was great for a bike that can cost £20,000 and upwards. Strange world.
It gives me the feeling that the engine is louder compared to other models that you have tried, such as Harley or Honda, these being larger displacement. Great review.
The tech and comfort features on this bike are incredible, and the geek in me is salivating over it all. One problem though, the racer boy in me is also comparing this to the R1250RS with the same motor but much better power to weight ratio. Question is, which side will win in my fantasy face off? 😆
Just wish the suspension didn’t eat tires for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also the bikes at idle sounds like a tractor. One last thing, which you also mentioned, the knee thing. I’ve owned the K1200gt and have been on a few test rides with the RT, I just can’t stand not being able to stretch out a bit. By the looks of the RT, I want to ride it, yet when I do…… I don’t :(
Great review. I agree with you on knee pain. I had the k1600 and felt the same. Ended up having to take it back and traded it in for a new 2021 gsa which has the best riding position for my aching knees and doing bigger miles. That new boxer engine has plenty of torque I love it.
@@Englishbikerdan I tried to avoid it as everyone has one now but it is such a Complete package. Keep up the good work dan been watching your videos for a long time now. You are very good at getting over the real world experiences.
Can you please tell me benefits or pros and cons of Boxer Engine? I heard from TH-cam that these are very Old type 2 stroke engines? What is your review on it?
Thanks for the review. I hope my vlog can be as good yours someday. I'm buying the RT this weekend by the way. Your review helped me decide between this and the GS and GSA. By the way, what is it you said? I know a lot of British slang, but the one you said got past me. You said that people might look at the RT and think it's a "___ and sniffer" bike. Please teach me the slang and meaning.
Haha, pipe and slippers bike. Meaning it's only for older men. That's the kind of impression people had about the big beemers. Glad my review was helpful and enjoy your machine! 👍
Good review Dan I like 👍 it style very nice even the starter price for BM is not that eye watering. She’s heavy but so is the Goldie .Gotta say never 👎 overtake on a junction been there as a kid and got bitten crazy 😜 . Enough !! good vid man as ever very much enjoyed : ) .
Thanks Malcom! Funny thing is, all those guys were a lot older, late 40's early 50's I'd say. I saw them at Loomies. I think a good example of one person making a questionable overtake and the rest just following.
Great review as always Dan! Really like your easy narrating style and the length of the videos! Congrats on 40k! Many more to come! PS Are you going to treat yourself to a new pair of gloves to celebrate it? 😅
I've got a new 1250 Gs with gear shift pro, it was recommended that you don';t use it between 1st and 2nd. it's not as good as some others but it's the only thing about the bike i'm not fond of!!
generally has more grunt than i thought it would. Love your reviews you helped me sort out my next bike with your reviews and i love the fact you have the attention span of a squirrel when you see something nice when riding just like me lol
Between this and the k1600gt bmw have the tour market to themselves, hondas new nt1100 sadly ditched the shaft which sucks for touring miles hassle free and super high seat out of the market for many owners what was Honda thinking
@@GJS-live 5,10 31 inside leg and I was bearly touching my toes , where on the st1300 I’m flat footed on high seat , I had to lean the bike more than I felt comfortable to , to get a footing at the lights going from a 770 seat hight to 810 is just too high for most
Taller riders like to put spacers in to lift the bars a bit, but this new design looks to make that more difficult. Or maybe it's adjustable on the fly now ...?
I went to test drive this bike two weeks ago I used. To own the R1200GS engine pretty much the same 1-Recommend quick shift for sure given the normal gear version is a bit rustic as usual in bmw boxer compared to Honda for example 2-Recommend if you drive it in the city a lot not so elastic engine like a four cylinder I found this less elastic than the Gs for some reason in London I did not manage to stay in the third gear it is all 1 and 2 gear in the city something quite annoying 3-really the engine is a bit noise when you drive in the motorway compared to a four or six cylinder so in my opinion having had all the various engines I would prefer a a six cylinder or four for a touring due to the noise. I used to put ear plugs to avoid hearing the excessive noise of the boxer engine on the motorway So all in all in my opinion great bike all around, expensive if you wish all the amenities is gets to 24K £ Maintenance expensive long term and a bit too noise for a touring motorcycle if you do 1000 Kms you will definitely agree with me Legs position is also not comfy enough for long journey In my opinion BMW knows that the majority of people buying the motorcycle so very little miles so they thought to create a torturing that is fun for the weekend 2 hrs drive BMW collected millions of data from its clients so they are able to judge what it the real needs of the customer instead of creating a product that fits 100% in a motorcycle category by the book If it was me to buy a touring bike I would by a Goldwing 2021 and maybe wait next year for the driving laser assistente yeah he bike is more expensive but different planet of comfort if you Trully plan long journey
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I always ride with earplugs in and have ridden some very noisy bikes. This one seemed very quiet to me but it's all about what you are used to. Cheers!
Main question I have is how far can you go on a full tank? my R9T uses high test fuel and can vary from 230KM around town and up to 350KM on reserve on the highway.
The daylight driving lights are an 'optional extra'. Just imagine if car drivers were told, "if you want DLR's it will cost you extra". I enjoy my motorbiking tremendously - BUT the prices, from accessories, clothing to servicing have a 95% markup in comparison to 4-wheeled vehicles.
I would like to ask you if you have to choose between Honda NT1100 and BMW ? I am going to change my bike (NC750X) after 5 seasons. I am looking for touring bike. With regards
I've got a GS, trading for an RT. I test rode the NT, a fantastic bike, but when I got back on my GS, the Boxer engine is compelling. £13-£14K NT price will get you a 2019 RT. If you can test both you can decide. Cheers
Really enjoyed this video. Really professional and very informative. You made me laugh several times I was enjoying it so much. I’ve just booked a test ride for Saturday. Those 3 guys were idiots. Look after your chirping bottom 😂.
Hey man, with this video you’ve got a new subscriber of your channel! Shouldn’t you go for a new pair of gloves? The ones you show on this video were in contrast (a little used, I think) with that new beautiful machine you tested! It’s not a critique, it is just a thought, hope it’s useful. Anyway, I enjoyed the video and your enthusiasm cruising on the RT. The video is competent and well done. So, keep on the nice work. Be well and stay safe my friend!
Thanks man! My gloves are actually ok. The fluffy bit is just the touchscreen friendly tips. Plenty of leather underneath. Thanks for your concern though and thanks for watching! 👍
Caveat: I ride a 2009 RT and had to put peg lowering. kit, bar risers and a Calsci XL to make it work for me. I thought I'd be in love with the new one. I've seen pictures and I love that blue. The manhattan metallic...no. I hate neutrals. Went to see one at the dealer. Way more cramped than mine/sportier. Don't care for the LCD. I don't need a nav or stereo. I mean, it's 25k+ tax, title, tags and dealer convenience fees. It just didn't hook me. I prefer analog clocks I am not sure that even with peg lowering kit, bigger screen and bar risers it would match mine. As far as this being a big bike...Not really. Not on this side of the Atlantic at least.
@@800Viffer The seat and screen can be changed. I'd have to get an aftermarket no matter what. BMW has three seat options on the RT, low, standard and high. The one I saw had the standard seat and that's what they come with unless it is ordered that way.
@@my.motorrad Hi. You're right. When I first looked at the Configurator I got the impression that the Blue one had the sports package with low screen and seat as defaults. Since seen they can be specced differently
I detect bad drivers in 2 seconds and with all the respect you are one of those...you did not even warmed up the engine before hitting the gas like crazy!You dont break smooth and you dont domain the machine well...anyways i have an R1250RT and i really love it!Please drive safe and smooth!
I'm very young and I still really like these big comfy bikes
Have ridden this new RT and I was absolutely blown away by the whole ride experience. In referrence to the sporty ergonomics, BMW have a Tall seat available, and bar risers to decrease the sportier angle of your knees if you are over 6 ft like myself. Very torn between the RT and the GSA for touring. Bugger!! Great review as usual mate. Thanks.
Yeah it's an impressive beast! I do think the GSA would be better for me, because of the knee angle. Cheers!
RT is smoother at highway speeds because it has a different rear end ratio, keeping you out of the buzz zone. Plus the weather protection is so much better on the RT. GSA is popular but it’s not a great road bike when sitting next to the RT. Off road adventures in your venues than GS for sure.
As i truck driver i am used to that adeptive cruise control. A verry nice feature. For motorway use espacially...
It's very handy in your trucks I bet!
Dan positions the bike on the road beautifully. He is obviously a student of “Roadcraft”. Sometimes he’s too in the centre of the road on the straights but coming up to a corner the bike position is perfect
Thanks, yeah not always on point as so much going on in the mind. But I do try! Cheers! 😊
this channel keeps getting better and better. keep going buddy
Thanks my friend. ❤️
BMW has always made the best touring bikes! This one is the cats arse in comfort and handling! The quick throttle response is the highlight. The electronic gadgets are secondary. This one gets the blue ribbon for comfort on the long hauls!
Terrific review, I pick up my fully loaded 1250rt on Saturday. Thank you 🙏
Very nice Gregg, enjoy the bike! 👍
Congratulations Man 😁
I had this bike in 2016 and absolutely loved the bike, and I’ve ridden most bikes out on the road. FJR1300, Harley Ultra, Goldwing 2014, but I regret selling this bike. As far as the knees....that was one of things I didn’t like...the Goldwing had a better sitting position. However I would own this bike again. Enjoyed the review and great content !
"...because I do suffer with knee pain"
The way you said that, I felt it. 😅
I ran out to Lakewood, CO over the weekend and picked up an RT. Drove it back 863 miles to Scottsdale, AZ.
Nice, I bet it was comfy!
@@Englishbikerdan amazing ride…It was a beautiful ride through Colorado, but I’m looking forward to riding back in my home country of England. 👍 I bought the bike with bar risers and a lowering kit on the foot pegs, which made a huge difference from my previous RT.
I rode one yesterday and thought I would add a few points here. First of all, the clutch is horrible. Lets out way late and is very hard to get used to especially when shifting under a lot of throttle. Maybe this can be adjusted, but it would be close to a deal breaker for me. Secondly, I think you understated the handling ability of this bike. It is nothing short of amazing. Very light front end, tips in and out like butter and would make a very good track time. Next is the riding position. I was able to raise the seat to its highest limit, which helped a lot, but my knees are still bent enough to make them slightly uncomfortable. (I have bad knees too). The wind protection is really good. Lastly, this thing is a BEAST at full acceleration. Pulls the front tire off the ground easily even in third gear. Goes from zero to holy shit in a hurry!!!
Yes, the clutch is adjustable, but with Shift Assist, why are you using it under high throttle shifts? ;) For $23 US I fixed the peg issue. th-cam.com/video/G2hHytluvpk/w-d-xo.html
You do such amazing reviews
This channel is amazing
LOL @ pipe and slippers :). There is a very good reason these bikes have been the choice of many police forces. I have this model in the LE model. Love it.
That intro was fire 🔥
Cheers Phil 👍
I’ve been dreaming about this bike cause it’s the next step I wanna take and go for long trips. Great review man🤙🏾
Thank very you EnglishbikerDan... i liked your video... after this work i am 80% decided on RT and 20% GSA... because i am in terrible dilemma...
I have an R1200 RT ,a few ponies less and less torque, expect the spread of power to be less too. If you only think of 200 miles range, even the 1200 makes at 640km indicated, using 98 Ron fuel. Have only ridden to 580km, nerves ruled out further (Australia) still had more than 2 litres left. Like the look of new one, but only trade/ give away when reaching 250 to 300K so it's going to be a while! Prev was K1100 and the relaxing R12 is just so easy to ride, 1000K plus days are a breeze. Found the knee bend not a problem, hot days (35C) are a struggle with the lack of air flow around the riders front, paid back when it's cold! All in this is the best bike I've ever had except for being unable to service myself.
You can adjust suspension in all modes. I use soft in dynamic. Great ride.
Finally got the dash upgraded! still wouldn't give up my GSA '19.
Riding position of authority indeed! No wonder the blue and fluorescent checkerboard yellow is popular :) Talking of knees my CBR650R below 10’c within an hour makes both knees feel like they’ve been beaten with a cricket bat
Fantastic bike! unfortunately still out of my reach for the moment, but loving my R1150RT very much as well.
Lex I had a 1150GS, best bike I ever had, not fast, handled GREAT and carried a load... The one I never should have sold.
Lex, I have a 1999 R1100RT which im still enjoying. Out of my reach as well but maybe someday
Nothing wrong with the 1150. Could have done with traction control maybe? But a solid bike
Nice review. I went from a ‘17 model to the ‘21 on April 17th. NO ONE should purchase this bike without a proper understanding of how the navigation system works! The system has three components the bike’s NAVI and TFT display, your smartphone and your communicator. All three can bring the system to a halt! If you have an iPhone the BMW Connected app must be called up and connected to the bike via WiFi with the app displayed on top of the phone. If for any reason the app is not displayed on top of the phone you immediately lose the map on the bikes TFT display. Getting the bike, the app, the smartphone and your communicator (did I mention the system will not work at all without a detectable communicator!) working together is no mean feat. A glitch anywhere in this entire system can easily bring the entire system crashing down. A review of this aspect of the bike would be doing your audience a tremendous service.
I got it working briefly and it seemed to be pretty easy to set up, but I'm on Android. Not sure about Apple. I'd have to have the bike on a long term basis for a thorough review. Hopefully in the future. Cheers!
Thanks for the insight, sometimes the helmet batteries die on a long run especially if listening to music on the motorway at high volume. Interesting to know that the sat nav function fails if the helmet head set fails, normally I just follow the visual information. How much data does the BMW app use, the added problem is that while the phone and data are switched on all the other apps will update using data allowance, expensive if free roaming is lost in time. Maybe I’ll stick with the Garmin, sod the wonder wheel!
Awesome video 👏 Can you do a video on the S1000RR M Sport?
I'll be honest, I'm not really a fan of sportsbikes on the road and I don't really see what I could show that would be interesting. It's a track weapon afterall.
Thanks for the great ride , i enjoyed it a lot 😁🏍️
I've got a 19 plate Rt am thinking of getting the new one , you can buy lower foot pegs and handle bar risers , they do make a massive difference to your legs and arms if you feel they are too low , brill video 😊
I had a 2017 and recently bought the 2021. Before you bight the bullet I highly recommend that you experience the navigation system as much as possible. I’ve had the bike for almost a month with about 600 miles on it and the Navi system is so painful I’m thinking of dumping the bike for a 2021 Multistrada. The system uses a smartphone, a communicator and the the bike’s TFT display. Getting them all to work in concert is no small feat! I’m on a four day trip now and I have yet to obtain visual or verbal route guidance! Any time you shut the bike off you then need to reestablish WiFi connection before a map will display. If you have a working smartphone but the bike doesn’t detect a communicator too bad, the entire Navi system will be unavailable. One glitch in any of the three components (bike NAVI/TFT, smartphone & communicator) can bring the Navi process to a dead stop. I’ve yet to figure out how to add a new destination from the bikes Navi menu! Frustrating is an understatement. Take heed. Also compared to the 2019 unit the cockpit display is pure torture. I have yet to figure out how to get it to display tire pressure! My recommendation would be to wait for another year or two or three!
Thanks for that info , I will 're think 😊
very vivid presentation of dynamic cruise control
SPOT ON !!!! .........easy on that right twisty thingy. You were having too much fun. 😁😁 Cheers, 🥂
You should definitely try the K1600 GT as the ultimate tourer.
Ah the R1250RT. For the BMW dad that saw 'Long Way Round', liked it, but is honest with himself.
"You know, Ewan and Charlie looked so cool and I liked the GS. But do I *really* need the round-the-world-do-everything GS, when all I would use it for is going up-and-down motorways?" *sees the RT in the same showroom* "Now, *that's* more like it. It's comfy, pretty quick, and suits what I would actually use it for."
Not knocking on it. I actually quite like it!
Pretty accurate I imagine! 😂👍
any bike engine with the crankshaft in line with the length of the bike will try to rotate the bike with a neutral rev. like BMW's 750 three cylinder back in the 90's.
Nice review and video. I have a 2015 F800GT and am very pleased with it, but I am interested in upgrading to the RT for a number of reasons. My only concern is the weight. However I noticed you said once you are moving on the RT, the weight is tolerable.
It's the choice of motor officers around the world, weight is more than manageable even at the slowest speeds :)
@@Silidons91 Thank you.
Thanks for this review, would love to see what you think about the K1600 compared to this. I wonder if the price difference is worth it or if you actually like the feel of this better.
I'll see what I can do! Thanks!
A review I left on my FB page. I was given one while my RT was in the shop.....Well, the BMW K1600 was an experience. Not often I can say that a bike makes mine feel small.
For what was supposed to be a drop my bike off and pick up a loaner and go home, turned into a 200 mile blast.
So, would I have one? ....Yes and No.
The engine is incredible and the power addictive - 5th gear overtake of 2 fast moving lorries in one go was like the Enterprise going to Warp. It has so much power that it makes you lazy. I found myself short shifting and running around in 5th gear ....even pottering along in town at 15mph in 5th at 1.5K was a doddle.
However, although it does a good job of hiding its 400KG weight and I was easily able to do feet up U-turns, there were times when pushing it hard that the weight and length made things a little squirrely. Overall a fantastic machine to take you across continents with ease and still make you smile in the twisty bits
@@krytenLister Gotta agree with all you point out about the K16. Great bike but hard to live with at very low speeds unless you're built like a heavyweight boxer. I traded my GT for a R1200RS after experiencing filtering on the M25 with pillion and full luggage on a hot day. Exhausting. I didn't have the reverse gear either so you really had to pay attention parking as well. Sadly the RS had to go as the missus reminded me every ride how much more comfortable the GT was. I've settled on the R1200RT for now.
@@stevecade857 The RT is more than capable mate th-cam.com/video/dyzF2SLBX40/w-d-xo.html
Great video. Bmw Paralever has been around since 1987 on their R100gs.....
Ah nice. I was only 10 back then, how time flies!
@@Englishbikerdan maybe you should ride the RS with upside down forks and compare the tech!
Can't decide this or a Honda NT 1100 DCT
On the fence between the RT and the GS.The RT is appealing,the GS is appalling looks wise,imo.The GS is a better all arounder I would think.I'll give one a go,and decide.Great review Dan,thanks.👍👍
I have the new 1250 GS at the moment. Review coming soon! Cheers!
@@Englishbikerdan
I look forward to that.Thanks Dan!
My dad got one of these 2021 with the "normal" seat height. He is 6'4 and loves the ergos. My short, only 5'10 ass with a 30" inseam can barely touch the ground after making sure the seat is in the lowest position. Anyway it is literally impossible for me to park on any sort of slope because I can't get the thing off the kickstand. Also can't lean over at all without dropping it. Way too heavy and too tall for a lot of riders, especially considering your knees are so bent while riding it. When my dad went to test drive I took the R1250R instead and absolutely loved the thing and it had great ergos. Really wish BMW would realize not all of its potential customers are giants.
Im actually going to trade in my K1600GT for one of these this week.Thanks for the great review. just like i was riding it myself.
What's the reason for such a downgrade?
@@TheMaximBond a few. after 8 years, the fuel pump went out, then the fuel gauge , then the radio stopped working.... also I am getting too old to keep lifting it up when i dump it in the driveway because its so damned top heavy at low speeds.....I love the New RT. check out my youtube channel. I have already posted several videos showcasing its tech. th-cam.com/channels/GVMwB0TAUIyb3Bkh-sHwJw.html
@@KimMoonbmwmoonie subscribed!
@@TheMaximBond thanks, welcome to the inside of my mind... LOL
Excellent review as always- 2 things which I noticed- Firstly large phones like iPhone pro Max don't fit the pocket unless you remove the phone cover so needs to go in tank bag...Im sure at least one guy designing the bike would have had a large phone and thought maybe it don't fit. Secondly if you are using the maps via the phone and your phone keypad locks the map on the screen on bike will stop working....So basically you leave your phone unlocked and you end up ringing all your mates while phone is tank bag...hopefully software update will solve that. Mark
Hi Mark, I didn't have the phone lock issue. The map seemed to work well with my phone attached in the cubby hole (Andriod). Maybe they've updated the software already. I guess some phones are just a bit too big! Cheers!
All your videos are awesome, but that intro man... It's a masterpiece
The gov in the UK spent a lot of money deciding on the most unappealing colour possible to put on cigarette packs to discourage people from smoking. The colour they picked looks exactly the same as the one BMW decided was great for a bike that can cost £20,000 and upwards. Strange world.
I quite liked it on this bike, there's no accounting for taste!
It gives me the feeling that the engine is louder compared to other models that you have tried, such as Harley or Honda, these being larger displacement. Great review.
The tech and comfort features on this bike are incredible, and the geek in me is salivating over it all. One problem though, the racer boy in me is also comparing this to the R1250RS with the same motor but much better power to weight ratio. Question is, which side will win in my fantasy face off? 😆
Just get the new M1000RR :D
279KG O.O that's definitely not a town friendly machine lol. Nice review as usual, cheers mate.
Yeah, don't drop it! 😁
Please a RS660 review ❤️
Just wish the suspension didn’t eat tires for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also the bikes at idle sounds like a tractor. One last thing, which you also mentioned, the knee thing. I’ve owned the K1200gt and have been on a few test rides with the RT, I just can’t stand not being able to stretch out a bit. By the looks of the RT, I want to ride it, yet when I do…… I don’t :(
Great review. I agree with you on knee pain. I had the k1600 and felt the same. Ended up having to take it back and traded it in for a new 2021 gsa which has the best riding position for my aching knees and doing bigger miles. That new boxer engine has plenty of torque I love it.
Glad it's not just me, I think the GSA could be a future bike!
@@Englishbikerdan I tried to avoid it as everyone has one now but it is such a Complete package. Keep up the good work dan been watching your videos for a long time now. You are very good at getting over the real world experiences.
@@theonlyredspecial I can't wait to test one! Cheers for the continued support. 👍🍻
Can you please tell me benefits or pros and cons of Boxer Engine? I heard from TH-cam that these are very Old type 2 stroke engines? What is your review on it?
Spot on. Drove one myself last weekend. Thanks.
Thank you for a very interessting presentation.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.
Thank you sir for such an awesome review!!! 👍🏼
Thanks for watching!
Have you ever drive test a Goldwing it would be nice to hear your view I have test driven one last week a dream in a touring cathegory
Yeah, I did. Check out my videos 👍
Thanks for the review. I hope my vlog can be as good yours someday. I'm buying the RT this weekend by the way. Your review helped me decide between this and the GS and GSA. By the way, what is it you said? I know a lot of British slang, but the one you said got past me. You said that people might look at the RT and think it's a "___ and sniffer" bike. Please teach me the slang and meaning.
Haha, pipe and slippers bike. Meaning it's only for older men. That's the kind of impression people had about the big beemers. Glad my review was helpful and enjoy your machine! 👍
That TFT screen should be in all new expensive bikes
Great Review...
Love from India Kolkata....😍😍😍😍😘😘😘🤗🤗🤗🤗😎😎😎😎😎
Loved the new intro
Cheers 👍
Good review Dan I like 👍 it style very nice even the starter price for BM is not that eye watering. She’s heavy but so is the Goldie .Gotta say never 👎 overtake on a junction been there as a kid and got bitten crazy 😜 . Enough !! good vid man as ever very
much enjoyed : ) .
Thanks Malcom! Funny thing is, all those guys were a lot older, late 40's early 50's I'd say. I saw them at Loomies. I think a good example of one person making a questionable overtake and the rest just following.
@@Englishbikerdan Crazy kust like lemmings : D
Another one to consider for me Dan - out of interest, are the panniers detachable?
Hey Huw, I am not 100% sure but I'd imagine so.
Yes they are Huw, and it looks tidy with them off, no scaffolding.
Great video! Is that speedometer showing in MPH?
Great review as always Dan! Really like your easy narrating style and the length of the videos! Congrats on 40k! Many more to come! PS Are you going to treat yourself to a new pair of gloves to celebrate it? 😅
Haha thanks! The gloves are fine. The fluffy bit is just the touchscreen tips.
could you do a vid on aprilia rs 660?
Thx, Dan, great job as always.
I've got a new 1250 Gs with gear shift pro, it was recommended that you don';t use it between 1st and 2nd. it's not as good as some others but it's the only thing about the bike i'm not fond of!!
Ah right. Yeah it's pretty agricultural between first and second!
Impressed... subscribed.
How easy is it to rip off the fancy TFT? Problem on the GS/A. When is the 1300 boxer engine due? Already under recent copyright by BMW.
Love your intros
generally has more grunt than i thought it would. Love your reviews you helped me sort out my next bike with your reviews and i love the fact you have the attention span of a squirrel when you see something nice when riding just like me lol
Haha, yes! I've always had a really short attention span ever since I was a kid! 😂
dint know it has radar cruise control like the multistrada v4
Tour de Surrey .. I’m thinking you were in Hampshire at that point 😂 (makes a change to see a vid on roads I know ) great review , nice bike 👍👍
Haha yeah, Tour de Hampshire doesn't sound as catchy! 😊
Brilliant video!
Superb & cool review keep going brohh❤️
Between this and the k1600gt bmw have the tour market to themselves, hondas new nt1100 sadly ditched the shaft which sucks for touring miles hassle free and super high seat out of the market for many owners what was Honda thinking
I'm 5'9" and the seat was fine? Right about shaft though.
@@GJS-live 5,10 31 inside leg and I was bearly touching my toes , where on the st1300 I’m flat footed on high seat , I had to lean the bike more than I felt comfortable to , to get a footing at the lights going from a 770 seat hight to 810 is just too high for most
Taller riders like to put spacers in to lift the bars a bit, but this new design looks to make that more difficult. Or maybe it's adjustable on the fly now ...?
Good suggestion. Will consider electronic handlebar adjustment for future models 😅
In my opinion this bike looks like a giant scooter, especially the front. I think it’s a good bike but you have to like the design
Can't see it myself but I don't often look at scooters!
Nice review, curb your enthusiasm :)
Damn straight ❤️
Pretty pretty pretty good 😊
😁
Looks like a cool cruiser!!!!
I went to test drive this bike two weeks ago I used. To own the R1200GS engine pretty much the same
1-Recommend quick shift for sure given the normal gear version is a bit rustic as usual in bmw boxer compared to Honda for example
2-Recommend if you drive it in the city a lot not so elastic engine like a four cylinder I found this less elastic than the Gs for some reason in London I did not manage to stay in the third gear it is all 1 and 2 gear in the city something quite annoying
3-really the engine is a bit noise when you drive in the motorway compared to a four or six cylinder so in my opinion having had all the various engines I would prefer a a six cylinder or four for a touring due to the noise.
I used to put ear plugs to avoid hearing the excessive noise of the boxer engine on the motorway
So all in all in my opinion great bike all around, expensive if you wish all the amenities is gets to 24K £
Maintenance expensive long term and a bit too noise for a touring motorcycle if you do 1000 Kms you will definitely agree with me
Legs position is also not comfy enough for long journey
In my opinion BMW knows that the majority of people buying the motorcycle so very little miles so they thought to create a torturing that is fun for the weekend 2 hrs drive
BMW collected millions of data from its clients so they are able to judge what it the real needs of the customer instead of creating a product that fits 100% in a motorcycle category by the book
If it was me to buy a touring bike I would by a Goldwing 2021 and maybe wait next year for the driving laser assistente yeah he bike is more expensive but different planet of comfort if you Trully plan long journey
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I always ride with earplugs in and have ridden some very noisy bikes. This one seemed very quiet to me but it's all about what you are used to. Cheers!
Great review.Thanks
Thanks for watching
Very good video. Shame you didn’t show how the nav on the TFT works. And sometimes bugs.
Annoyingly, I showed it on my first video but my GoPro 7 decided not to record any audio so that one went in the bin.
Fantastic video!
Thank you 👍
Dream bike
Main question I have is how far can you go on a full tank? my R9T uses high test fuel and can vary from 230KM around town and up to 350KM on reserve on the highway.
The daylight driving lights are an 'optional extra'. Just imagine if car drivers were told, "if you want DLR's it will cost you extra". I enjoy my motorbiking tremendously - BUT the prices, from accessories, clothing to servicing have a 95% markup in comparison to 4-wheeled vehicles.
Ah but one day it'll all be standard, like abs and traction control.
@@Englishbikerdan We all live in hope Dan :)
You should mention that the horn is so loud that it belongs to a truck not a bike! I love my one and have had it for 2 months now
You know I actually didn't try it. Good to know!
IM CONFUSED !! Are the panniers wider than the mirrors?? According to other reviewers the mirrors are the widest part of the bike! Which is correct?
Maybe, tbh I can't remember. I might have got it wrong.
I would like to ask you if you have to choose between Honda NT1100 and BMW ? I am going to change my bike (NC750X) after 5 seasons. I am looking for touring bike. With regards
I've not ridden the NT1100 yet. Hopefully May.
I've got a GS, trading for an RT. I test rode the NT, a fantastic bike, but when I got back on my GS, the Boxer engine is compelling. £13-£14K NT price will get you a 2019 RT. If you can test both you can decide. Cheers
Really enjoyed this video. Really professional and very informative. You made me laugh several times I was enjoying it so much.
I’ve just booked a test ride for Saturday.
Those 3 guys were idiots.
Look after your chirping bottom 😂.
Haha cheers Greg!
when are they gonna update the 1600 dash
Is it true the 2021’s don’t have radios in the US because of computer chip shortages?
It's interesting you say that. This one's radio function wasn't available.
That's a plane, not a bike. What an machine!
This should make Yamaha update it's FJR 1300
The intro to that video was pukka 👏🏻👌🏻
Thank you 😊
Wonderful, engaging and unpretentious review.
Thanks for the kind words Nick!
Hey man, with this video you’ve got a new subscriber of your channel!
Shouldn’t you go for a new pair of gloves? The ones you show on this video were in contrast (a little used, I think) with that new beautiful machine you tested! It’s not a critique, it is just a thought, hope it’s useful.
Anyway, I enjoyed the video and your enthusiasm cruising on the RT. The video is competent and well done. So, keep on the nice work. Be well and stay safe my friend!
Thanks man! My gloves are actually ok. The fluffy bit is just the touchscreen friendly tips. Plenty of leather underneath. Thanks for your concern though and thanks for watching! 👍
Try turmeric for your knee pain.
Wouldn't it blow off in the wind?
@@battsonbikes1919 😂
😂😂😂😂😂
Caveat: I ride a 2009 RT and had to put peg lowering. kit, bar risers and a Calsci XL to make it work for me. I thought I'd be in love with the new one. I've seen pictures and I love that blue. The manhattan metallic...no. I hate neutrals. Went to see one at the dealer. Way more cramped than mine/sportier. Don't care for the LCD. I don't need a nav or stereo. I mean, it's 25k+ tax, title, tags and dealer convenience fees. It just didn't hook me. I prefer analog clocks I am not sure that even with peg lowering kit, bigger screen and bar risers it would match mine. As far as this being a big bike...Not really. Not on this side of the Atlantic at least.
The blue one is marketed as 'sportier' so definitely has a lower screen and possibly a lower seat so ergonomically more cramped I'd say
@@800Viffer The seat and screen can be changed. I'd have to get an aftermarket no matter what. BMW has three seat options on the RT, low, standard and high. The one I saw had the standard seat and that's what they come with unless it is ordered that way.
@@my.motorrad Hi. You're right. When I first looked at the Configurator I got the impression that the Blue one had the sports package with low screen and seat as defaults. Since seen they can be specced differently
Is it reliable ?
I detect bad drivers in 2 seconds and with all the respect you are one of those...you did not even warmed up the engine before hitting the gas like crazy!You dont break smooth and you dont domain the machine well...anyways i have an R1250RT and i really love it!Please drive safe and smooth!
🤣
Says the guy who has full gear but no gloves. Oh dear, I detect numpties in 2 seconds as well. My radar is pinging my dude.
Not much an off the bike walk-talk around, but overall a good video. :)
Yes my journey was a lot longer than usual. Thanks for watching!
What do you prefer Gs or RT ?
GS.