BMW F850GS: TOURING with a PILLION... do you need a bigger GS? 

In the 1950s and 60s, lots of people used to go touring 2 up with camping gear on bikes and sidecar outfits that probably had no more than 50 bhp. Touring 2 up is not about how much power your bike has but about enjoying the experience and scenery.

Very interesting video. We are surprisingly similar although I’m well into my 60s. I have a R 1250rt which is 1 year old now and a Guzzi V7 850 which is 8 months old. I love both bikes but the time is fast approaching when I need to go back down to one and downsize too. I was considering what you have here and also the V85tt. I don’t think there’s much in them really but the shaft drive is a big pull for me as I’m so lazy. That said the jury is still out at least for another 12 months. I’ll watch with interest how you get on.

Sometimes you need a break from the shaft

Even the F750 is good for 2up. If it's hard for your passenger to climb up, let her get up first using your peg and seat, then move back up. I don't like the wide handlebars of the adv bikes. Wide bars are good for the off-road, but on a pavement narrower are better. Otherwise, I lived riding the Tiger 900. But BMW F-series in my opinion have the best-looking display, yet the right case is smaller and is bothersome. Also, when expended - they're really (car) wide :) Have you tried the F900GS? I also think this bike is more comfortable for a passenger. All big touring bikes have short suspensions travel, and have to be sturdier for not bottoming out, hence harsher on bumps. All in all, it's a great bike. Enjoy it! Cheers.