4 Things I Hate about the BMW R1200GS 

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In Norway there is a joke that goes around when somebody can not lift its own weight or run fast enough ... They simply say " you need to grow stronger"..

For me the sound is delicious

The weight is fine. I like the stability in fierce winds. The sound is even better. It’s loud enough to be heard without being obnoxious to everyone else. I don’t want my GS to sound or look like a Japanese bike. Let’s keep it BMW? Traction control? Splitting hairs. I would agree that she’s an expensive mistress. It’s a very expensive way to travel. But no bike I’ve ridden comes close to its beautiful engineering. So we pay. Judging from the video, perhaps the 310 would be a better fit for you?

I could live with everything except the high cost of parts and maintenance.Even the chain saw sound.😊Thanks Ian.👍🏻👍🏻

That sound makes me smile when I hear someone else's go past, because it is an auditory reminder of how much better life is on my bike.

i have the air/oil cooled version from 2008, now 70000km on it without any issue. i will go for 200 000km 😎

BMW became a religion, but unlike HD, they sell you a complete motorcycle

I love the weight of the gs, especially on highways, it doesn't move even while approaching trucks

I love the GS for its sound.... the boxer engine sets it apart from it rivals.

Can't agree with the sound comment. My 2014 sounds good to me with the stock can on.

I have always enjoyed a quieter motor sound. Not silent, but an efficient air sucking sound with a little grunt mixed in. Like the old RS's with stock pipes. Loud pipes really annoy me and everyone (non riders) around me. I used to get good comments on the sound of my old RS.

"The BMW Tax" lol i like it and fully understand what you mean. Harley Davidson must use the same tax man lol

I'm sure BMW has thoroughly considered everything in this video. The stock sound is perfect for long rides and louder sexier exhaust would get VERY old. In fact many have gone to aftermarket exhausts and returned to stock.

Can't hate it to much, you bought a heavier and more expensive version.

Always loved the thumpy boxer sound, probably why I’m on my 3rd “R” and looking at getting one like in the video

The BMW Boxer has always been marketed as “the *quiet* well-engineered bike” since at least the early ‘60s. A triple or inline 4 does “sound” better, but horses for courses.

Great video. Agreed, although no bike is perfect and as far as bikes go, the GS beats every other bike, overall IMO. Like you i have owned (or ridden) almost every adventure bike ever made. On the1200 gripes, I can add one more thing, which is bike specific, and that is oscillating vibrations through the driveline. Just gave my bike back to bmw - they admitted that the 1200 LC vibrates and lot, and mine more so. Gave me my money back (i rode it 8 months) and a great deal on the new 1250, which is MUCH smoother. Thank you BMW

I keep looking at your house in the background... Many of us can only dream about having such a view from a deck!

Now make a video about the 5 things you love about the R1200GS. The boxer engine comes to mind. The ABS is fantastic! Brake hard with only the front brake from high speed. Awesome!! Totally unexpected perfection. (Just did a BMW riding course)

totally agree (mine is a 2008 so its pretty much unrideable off road with the tc on) $30 for turn signal is beyond gouging. On the other hand I have been riding with a few friends that have new 790 and even my old BMW doesn't give up much on them. I came into the GS fold begrudgingly and expected to sell my bike after a few months but as it turns out I fell in love.

I certainly agree with the weight issue - not a problem until it is, and it gets that way often if you ride off road. I own an 04 1150 GS so I can't say about the newer ones, but one of my biggest gripes is that first gear is not low enough. If we're riding off road and using these things like tractors, then it should have a tractor-like first gear. Then you might (just maybe) be able to crawl through the tight places instead of blasting and crashing or abusing the clutch to find the right speed.

Great channel Ian , living my dream 👍🏻👍🏻🍻

I'm a Harley guy,but I like how you show all the honest opinion on it! Like for you and subscribe !

I like all your vedios man , thanks alot , You are an honest man.

You get what you pay for and in the GS world, you're paying for one of the greatest all-around bikes in motorcycling history. NO other bike does so many things so incredibly well with such ease. The Boxer motor has a pleasant, throaty unique sound. Like a Piper Cub.

I remember a few years back I rode a 2007 R1200GS 2200 kms over Australia’s Snowy mountains. It had a stock exhaust. I really grew to love the the subtle tone of the twin. Just something about it.

Sound is perfect.

Love review, spot on except the sound of the bike, of everyone has there option and mine is I love the sound, boxer rattles the grunt out the tail pipe when you get on it, and the quite when cruising , but like said great review. Thanks.

I have a 2018 gsa. The only thing I agree with is the weight but I knew that getting on it. Obviously protect everything on the bike especially if you’re doing a lot of off road like me.

I have a 1200 from 2005 and will never replace it with a later model. It is simple (no traction control, only ABS) I can do all regular maintenance by myself, and can go anywhere I care to go. Mind you, I am not an adventure rider, that is, one of those who aim at every water puddle that they find on a trail, so that they can splash it. You got the drift .... Some of the points mentioned in this video are inherent to the bike and / or subjective. As the sound for example: it is distinctive, it depends on the engine and firing sequence. The real issue with the bike is its height. One is towering the road, which is OK-ish on a paved road, but when things get unpaved .... I'd rather be lower. I am 182 cm tall BTW

Sounds like you CHOSE the wrong bike! BMW’s are not for everyone. I own a 2007 R1200 G/S. After 62,000 miles I am still in love. I have ridden every R1200 since as a test rider for an after market windshield manufacturer. Loved everything about them as well. The G/S is the best handling motorcycle out there. There is NOTHING BETTER on a twisty mountain road. I am 5’-8” tall with a 31” inseam. I have never had an issue with seat height or weight of the bike. One just needs to learn the proper way to pick up ANY motorcycle. I think YOU would be much happier with a 350 Kawasaki verses……. JMHO…. P.S. I have ridden this bike in the dirt many times and have had nothing but FUN!!!

The sound? That's what you're complaining about? Lost me at that point

I would never be able to own a bike whos sound I dislike. To me, boxer sounds delicious, even with the original can.

Despite the exhaust sound part I agree with you.

great vid. put in some long days in the saddle and a quiet bike becomes very desirable. the big beemer has its place and it not on trails. that bike is designed to slay desert crossings at 100 mph with no care about gas.

Its a 1200 with a lot of stuff. Its power or weight. Once you realy go off road a lot. A lightweight bike is a must. Like you said. Dropping the bike in a non frendly environment is gonna be a lot of hussle.

Thanks for the vid man just wondering what your thoughts are on this vs the Africa Twin off road and in the twisties?

I like the sound of it. I do think you've got the wrong muffler on it though. The SC Project sounds a LOT better.

On my second GS now(‘18 1200GSA), they are sort of awesome… they do everything I need and are so very comfortable. Just a great bike.

Parts may be expensive to discourage owners from keeping the vehicle on the road for a long period of time. Buying a new bike is what 's preferred. There also may be agreements with other stakeholders governing such.

Loved the sound of the stock exhaust on my '07 1200 GSA but after fitting Metal Mule balanced ali panniers (both panniers the same size) and the MM specced Scorpion exhaust the sound is sooooo much better.

Great review! New subscriber with a brand new ATAS (purchased last week). Beautiful area...what part of the country?

I like the sound just fine. In fact, I prefer the stock muffler over the akro muffler. I had a Vstrom 650 before my 1200GS and that was even more uninspiring. My pet peeve is why only have one turn signal indicator vs. 2 independent indicators like on previous model years. WTF!

I thought it sounded great. You did remind me to get some protection for the headlight so thanks for that. As for the under-seat module, though it's a bit of a nuisance you could wire it to a wee switch.

wow sounds awesome :p

I agree with the maintenance and parts cost...but not so much on weight and sound. It sounds very unique and never fails to turn heads (although maybe its because people wonder what that weird sound is lol). It's heavy, but thats a lifesaver on the road, and after looking at weights for scramblers and other adv bikes, Im not seeing how 20-30 lbs really makes a difference. That said, I didnt buy mine to tear it up on rutted, muddy trails... I'd buy something far smaller and less expensive for that.

agreed - these correlate with my experiences owning gsa, and gs bikes

Agree about all except the sound it sounds awesome lol

If you like the Tiger more . . . buy a Tiger!!!

I got a 2011 Tripple Black GS and I wouldn't trade it for anything. It's lighter then the 2013+ versions (a lot less top heavy). I don't have 'modes' on traction (on, S and off) The exhaust sound is ok even original. And once the engine is truely warmed up (after several hours) , the engine sound is just yummie :3 But I do agree on the costs, it's ridiculous,...

don´t care about the weight. Rides like a bycicle. But always greate to hear opinions against the hype. Well done !

i love my gs sound man

Interesting points. Writing to point out my reaction to the video quality -- colors appear washed out and things look extra contrast-y. Wondering if the video was recorded with a smartphone.

Engine sound is something that isn’t engineered into the bike. It’s what happens when the EPA regulates how much db is allowed coming from the exhaust. The High cost of parts isn’t a problem, you bought the bike knowing parts would be expensive. It isn’t a British bike! Traction control is somewhat over rated. As far as it goes, it is more of a farkle than a necessity. Finally the weight is there on the spec sheet. Fifty pounds lighter still makes it a quarter ton motorcycle... if you can pull 500 pounds out of a mud bog, then you can pull out 550 pounds. I don’t see any of your “points” as valid, more nit-picking than anything else. Maybe the new BMW 310 is a better fit for you. So, here you have a nice GS. I have one too. I like the sound, I enjoy the ride height too. Replacement parts are only an expensive if you buy them new. I like the heavy feel. I feel safe and anchored to the road when a huge truck stirs up a vortex. Finally, the traction control on most bikes are a relative to where you want to ride a heavy, funny sounding, expensive motorcycle. ........ in this instance a BMW. Not trolling, just not agreeing with you on your assessment of this very nicely engineered Motorcycle.

Love the conversation with your stock broker. If I hadn't already subscribed, I would have. :)

I don’t think you are correct about traction control. On my 2018, I have the Pro plug installed and I can go into settings and CHOOSE either Enduro OR Enduro Pro for DTC setting. All the plug does is allow me to EDIT the mode. It doesn’t eliminate any mode options.

I have a 2020 Africa Twin Dct. I have the Outback_Mototech upper,lower crash bars and there bash plate. Plus I have there pannier racks which are like rear crash bars. is makes for a bike as heavy as the 1200GSA. My AT is a real chore to pick up alone. From the videos I've seen, the GSA looks easier to pick up. I can get a 2016 GSA for 16K.

The expense to us also allow stability of the manufacturer to produce highest quality. Never complain about prices of a quality item.

Hi Ian, nice to see you have stepped up your RU-vid game with more frequent videos. I'm sure, a lot of your viewers agree, that you have really beautiful backdrop to your driveway and house. I hope that at some point you can show us a bit more of the surroundings where you make your videos at.

I agree the R1200GS IS a top of the line bike & a best seller-but for some of us the initial cost + hi maintenance $, super expensive fluids & parts, & you said it, the weight, + higher insurance is a turn-off now driving me from my BMW toward the mid-sized 700-1000cc brands, HKS -Honda Kawa Suzuki. And even with all the above, the BMW can have a few really annoying issues that I didn't expect to see with such a "hi-quality" product. But I still give it an A- rating overall.

Agree completely. Also, I would add that they are too high. If the word "medium" is common in the world why to BMW's have to be "tall"?

With a big bike there is only so much they can do to cut weight. But I agree about the sound, that's why I went with the triple, there is just no way I could listed to that boxer engine all day.

Even the weight of the f850gs (229kg) is now surpassed the weight of the old air cooled r1200gs. The f850gsA is just a crazy weight now is it like 242kg or something. And even the kawasaki led headlight unit for the z1000sx is £1400 +vat. I expect there all that expensive. OEM

I agree with all of these, except the sound... Mine sounds absolutely great. And to think that it is because of the fact it's a boxer motor? What about the sound of a posrche 911? Or Subaru? It's the Katalysator (it's that the English word as well) that kills your joy of the sound. If you want it to sound more aggressive, you'll have to replace it with an open Y-pipe... I really wish it had a button with like 3 different modes for standard quick settings, for off-road or something. Set it to 3 and abs and traction control is all off and STAYS OFF after you restart the bike. It's super annoying to change everything again after the engine stalled in off-road

The exhaust sounds good. Look, it's not a Ducati or Triumph triple, but it ain't bad at all.

Recommend you the Africa Twin :)

nice video, i onw a 1250 and think the same

I agree point 1. Is BMW using lead parts in bike? I'd replace your 2 and 3. With: 2. Position of muffler. Why uppright? It prevents using proper pannier on muffler side. Same issue in older oil heads and new wet heads. People install big pizza boxes outside of muffler which makes wide bike even wider. On non-muffler side the BMW vario pannier is really good. 3. Why extra universal joint at rear? This has left so many riders alone in dark when the joint or shaft splines give up. And w´two more issues in general: Why BMW changed the shaft drive to left side when the water cooling was introduced to boxers? To sell more panniers since the old ones don't fit ?? And last not least. BMW sales organisation. They have 'killed' small dealerships with good customer service and skilled and motivated service persons. Now there has to be marble desk and and lot of bling in Beemer shop, they certainly make bikes so expensive but don't give any extra value to customers. BR JJ there are 10 kinds of people. those who understand binary and those who don'T

Subjective,of course,but the looks of this motorcycle are enough to put me off regardless of how good/ or bad, it may be.

The boxer engine should sound like the old Triumph, Norton, BSA double thumpers because they work similar

I agree about the sound. Boxer twin sounds OK overall but it's one of my least favorite sounding engines after Honda VFR1200F (VFR800 was amazing).

You know a bike has to have low amounts of real problems when something as small as the sound can factor in. It's not like it sounds like a lawnmower, sounds better than Africa twin and Yamaha to me. The only two competitors for sound is Triumph and KTM

I think the sound is due to preferences I for example like it a lot.

I agree the stock sound is a bit muted. On mine I’ve gone full Akrapovic. Get the headers as well. It sounds awesome especially above 7000 RPM. And the headers go an amazing purple/green colour. Apart from the price it’s a win all around.

Your video was VERY Useful! I've been looking at upgrading my '08 KLR650. Recently, I was on Cycletrader for a 2010-13 or so BMW, thank you, now I'm Not.

Where was this filmed? Like the mountain bike and the scenery in the background.

Agreed on all points! It’s sad that BMW has gone the wrong direction on weight, as opposed to just about every other manufacturer. I think it’s more a reflection of the demographics of who they’re customer base is. The folks buying these more and more are men in their 50s, 60s and 70s who want its touring comforts and rarely take it off road. Almost no one under the age of 50 can afford these bikes that now go for $22-30K, plus the parts. The fact you need to buy a lens protector that doesn’t come standard is just asinine, just to avoid replacing a $1,500 part. And if you get the 1250GSA, you’re looking at 600 pounds in wet weight! Not to mention, if you’re a woman, weight is one of the most critical features of these ADV bikes. BMW used to be the leader in ADV bikes, with its GS being more of an esoteric funny looking bike that was strangely useful to those who knew about it. Now it’s just a very nice touring bike. Which is fine, but KTM will fill the void over the next 10 years.

Gotta say I like the GS sound actually. I like that boxer raspy ricer sound quite a bit. Fulfills my teenager dreams of owning a WRX with a big fart cannon on it.

I'll offer one more issue. I want more adjustability of the suspension. I would also like to have dampening circuits (high/low speed) and rebound control, not BMW's factory settings. Unfortunately it cant be retuned.

BMW like to charge large numbers for everything on all their vehicles. I had my 2018 530 serviced under a service package a few weeks ago and while that was free, they said I needed rear brake PADS, which cost me $341.50.

The biggest down as owner of k1600 is the gps. I haven’t seen such crap thing before. As such I use my old iPhone and google maps on it. Now working on 3D print to replace bmw gps for iPhone. Do not use your daily use phone as gps if you mount it on handlebar as the new phones have stabilization in cameras and do to constant vibration it fail and is expensive to replace

What crash bars do you have on the bike?

Your house looks amazing

I completely agree with most of your bitch list, but not sure why you said you can't have both the Enduro and Enduro Pro modes. With the 'chip' in (actually can do it with a paper clip; it's just a contact bridge), my '15 GS has 5 modes: Road, dynamic, rain, Enduro, and Enduro Pro. I cycle between the Enduro and Enduro Pro regularly.

I rode a 2020 1250 GS a few weeks ago. The thing that drove me nuts was the shifter. On my 790 R my toes slips under the shifter easily and allows for smooth shifting either sitting or standing. On the GS, it didn’t fit, and did not appear to be easily adjustable. The guys I was with said to shift with the side of your boot and toe, not the top. So swinging my foot out. It was tough. I accidentally down shifted or put it in neutral more than once while flying down the California Aqueduct. Not fun. Honestly it keeps me away from buying one

When are you buy the 790?

Sounds ok to me just ride it dude

Hi Ian, I have an idea I'd like to talk to you about, how can I contact you?

Has anyone put the Akra headers on their GS to match the silencer? Most don’t and just leave stock headers on. I bought my GS new but it was a demonstrator and it came with the Akra silencer fitted. [also came with stock silencer in a box]. After reading up a bit I discovered that Akra made their own larger bore headers which gave a few extra horses. As one who thinks a few extra ponies can’t hurt I purchased a pair. However the db level increased quite a bit which I initially liked but after a couple of k miles, I tired with the noise quite quickly. As for the extra hp the new headers were meant to produce, I’d either have to have a stock bike to ride alongside mine or put it on a dyno as tbh I couldn’t tell for sure how much of a difference it really made. I will add however that several more knowledgeable people than me advised me that to get the extra hp the bike needed a different ignition/file module and setting up properly on a dyno. However for general riding I’d say my GS has enough power but on the occasions I want to nail it, I find I can have the throttle pinned and hitting the rev limiter too soon which is often disappointing. I’d be interested in comparing the 1250?

2014 I have all modes with plug in.

haha, seems we have a lot in common on motorcycles. I traded in the AT for the 2018 GS 1200 Rally edition. love the blue paint scheme. been hearing a lot about this legendary motorcycle but to be honest a bit disappointed. to sum it up it's a pretty boring bike. I traded it in for a 2018 Ducati Multistrada Pikes Peak in less than a year. lot more fun and lighter. u r also right on the expensive parts. I also have this R9T, thinking of adding the back seat cowl and it costs 800 $ ! so crazy. didn't buy.

There is no "perfect" motorcycle. That's why I ride a bicycle.

The same price for Africa twin led headlight ;)

Yeah, the high cost of parts and the weight is stopping me from buying a GS.

Love the GSA. The big Bertha. These bikes are for escaping when the Zombies are chasing us. Weight does not bother me. Are kidding, the sound is awesome with the Akrapovic. Since this bike sees a higher percentage of road miles than off-road I would like to see a much better horn, electric windscreen, an optional additional set of high lumen LED lights. All else I agree.

But reducing weight means increase in cost. I'm sure they can build the entire frame out of carbon fiber, but then no one can afford it And regarding sound, using a full exhaust system without catalytic converter fix it

I can access all the modes on my GS??

I see your difficulties but for me I want a good shaft driven tourer but bikes are so expensive especially BMW.

Why not just buy a new headlight from eBay? There are loads of them for around 200-400$. No need for genuine when you change something a lot.