As a matter of interest, an essential extra here is the kickstand sensor protector. Honestly, I’m not sure why this doesn’t come as standard? If it’s damaged by a rock the engine cuts immediately, which in my mind is a safety issue. If damaged, it’s easily bypassed by cutting then joining the red and white wires, but I’d prefer not to be doing such things if I don’t have to!
Great review. Lots of data. A very clear explanation of the characteristics and the feeling of the GS. Just one thing, you speak very fast ! Thanks we have subtitles. Congrats once again.
Smiled at your comments about the perceived image.... So true! And completely unjustified in my opinion. Amazing what jealousy will do as it's an amazing bike. I enjoy all your vids- articulate and unbiased... Keep up the good work!
They call it old man's bike because no young chap in his 20's can usually aford one... its as simple as that. Same as 'old age crisis car' 'look at this guy driving Mustang he must be having mifdle age crisis of his late 40's. Fecking true... what guy in his 20's can usually aford brand new sportscar. ... GS got its name but it doesnt desetve it
If it wasn't for the running costs of these toys, I'd definitely own a 3rd and 4th bike by now, but I already run a car, van, boat and 2 motorcycles, oh plus a wife and 2 sons, lol. Great review TMF, merry xmas to you and the family. regards, Paul.
A year ago, I saw your one-year review of the R1200GS and it certainly influenced my decision to buy one. As a fellow GS rider, I think your comments then and now are spot-on. This bike is a versatile, well-engineered machine that's capable of doing many things well. I commuted, toured and even attended a track day on it. It reminds me of the 8" chef's knife in my kitchen. Its unique look isn't for everyone. Personally, I find it masculine. Curiously, people here associate riding a BMW GS with stranger things than the folks in the UK. Not "Ewan and McGregor wannabe", but "refuse to grow up" and "single and rich". Regardless of that, I am having a great time on this bike and I hope to keep riding it for a long time. And by the way, I bought the Navigator V partly because of your stellar review, too.
+James L Great stuff James, I'm so glad my review turned out to be true for you too! Interesting that you think the bike says "young and rich" as here they are very much "old mans" bikes!! Whatever the image, I love mine and wouldn't be without it - if I could only have one machine, that would be the one. Thanks for watching and stopping by, appreciate your kind comments - all the best - TMF
I wish it meant that! Unfortunately it actually translates to "This man is probably middle-aged and unable to get married. That's why he has enough spare cash to blow on an expensive man-toy like a BMW GS." It's seen as an "old man's bike" here just like everywhere else. However, GS riders are getting younger these days. I was 31 when I got mine. In any case, enjoy your ride and stay safe!
You should change to white lights in your garage. That way the colors in your bikes (specially the Ducati) will really shine. I really enjoy your videos btw.
Just seems like yesterday that I commented on your 1 yr anniversary on the GS! I have enjoyed your commentary on the GS. I will be buying a GSA next year. Look forward to your upcoming travels!
Another great video thanks! Mine will be two years old end of Feb. 45 000 Kms on it so far no problems at all to report. All services done myself from day one , no shims required on second valve check at 40 K either. Did a nice ride last year at the MOA in Billings and that is why I highly recommend taking the GS to the US , we were a group of 3 ,two other older1200 GSA's and myself. Going up the mountain in Wyoming in a National Park up to 10 000 ft it was a Stelvio like experience and I was nearly scraping foot pegs on the way up , ( Anakee 3's ) panniers and all ,and at the very top we went off - road through some pretty rough stuff to look at some Native American monuments, what an incredibly versatile machine, best bike ever, a keeper. Regards from Calgary..
+zubtf .....wow sounds like a great trip - very nice having the Rockies on your doorstep too I would imagine. A big road trip into the US is definitely on the card for me - but it's 5 years out (a retirement adventure!). Glad to hear you're still loving the bike after all those miles, I agree, the GS is a super versatile long term keeper. All the best and thanks for stopping by - TMF
I went to Bahnstormer for an Akrapovic fitted to the new RT. Fitted free, 20% discount on exhaust and posted stock exhaust back to me. Everyone in the dealership came to talk to me. Best personable service at any BMW dealers I've been to. Bit far for me but enjoyed the visit.
Excellent review... thanks for posting this and your other quality videos. I have the exact same '14 R1200GS and have to say that your assessment / review is spot on... I would say almost the exact same about my bike also two years in. Will look forward to your 3 year review. Also - would be interested if you could compare to others in your videos, such as your new Pangale. While obviously they are very different bikes, am interested in your perspective comparing as I consider other bikes as well. I believe other viewers likewise would appreciate. Again - thanks for posting such excellent quality reviews.
+Sean Kantorow Thanks Sean, appreciate the positive comments and glad you concur with my assessment of the splendid GS.....and as you say my other bikes are very different machines, so not quite sure how the comparison would run but I'll have a think about it and add it to the list...stay tuned!
+TheMissendenFlyer Hey Mate! Happy New Year! Interesting question from Sean. When I open the garage door it's the Double Bl**dy R every time, mainly because it's so good in traffic - much better than a GS (see Von Grumble's vids for proof)... Unless the weather's shite, or I've been issued with a LONG shopping list and then, of course, it's the trusty, old-man's GS. Next time you're heading for Yarksheer, give me a shout and I'll buy you a coffee at Squires.
+Buzz Shiteyear Yes on the garage door test my eyes are only for the Panigale, but if I could only have one bike then the GS wins hands down! Cheers and Happy New Year to you too! - TMF
Hi TMF. Gave the GS a good test this morning with a 100+ miles ride in poor weather including strong winds. The bike just took everything that was thrown at it and remained solid as a rock. New MRA screen performed well on all roads, particularly impressed on the A1 at speed; I have the spoiler extended to its tallest position and that works for me. Being 6' 2" I've fitted a high seat and may have to fit bar risers to maintain good ergonomics. Overall, I'm very impressed with the mighty GS, works better for me than the 2014 RT did. Hope you're well and getting out and about. Cheers for now, Andy
Hi Andy, glad to hear you're getting on well with the GS, it's not by chance it's so popular is it. If I could only have one bike it would definitely be the GS. Roll on summer eh? All the best - TMF
Like you I am very impressed with the R1200GSW. Picked mine up May 10, 2014 and now have 25,450 miles. The original Anakee III tires were replaced at 13,500 miles with Conti Trail Attack II. The GS has replaced my car as a daily driver, rain or shine. Love the electronics and the different riding modes. I installed the BMW crash bars for head protection; Touratech radiator guards; Wunderlich offset bar risers for a little more comfort and no adjustment on the clutch and brake lines. No doubt, I would buy this bike again.
+Scot Pleski Yes me too...glad you concur with my findings. Strange how BMW fit different OEM tyres, mine came with the Conti Trail Attacks fitted from the factory - I've been impressed with their longevity. Thanks for watching and for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Very well produced video. I enjoy all of them not just for the great insights on the different bikes but because I spent 5 years living in that part of the world and I enjoy the trip down memory lane.
Pretty similar to my 3 years of 13 & 15 GS ownership. I often look to change bikes, even take a test ride and invariably compare it to the GS I rode in on and then ride away on the GS, it is just an amazing machine that is hard to replace.
+Jim Magel Cheers Jim, enjoy your new ride, awesome machine - you made a good choice! ...and yes, that I intend to do (in fact I haven't stopped, I just don't film everything I do on the bikes....). All the best - TMF
Looking forward to the 3 year review - it's been watching your videos that prompted me to take a look at the GS - glad I did - picking mine up this coming weekend - can't wait !!! Keep the vids coming - thank you.
Thanks for the kind comments Gary -I so wish I was on commission with BMW as you're certainly not the first to say that!! They are great bikes, you'll love it....have fun! All the best - TMF
I don't own a GS (i have the XR) but still i watched the whole video. Your videos are some of the most informative and useful videos out there. Keep up the great work and ride safe!
+TheMissendenFlyer I'm loving the XR except for those vibrations around 5K rpm. I solved it to a certain extent by putting on some heavier bar ends from HVMP. It's still there, but much less than earlier. I just love the incredible power and handling of the XR. I added the Navigator V after I saw your review ;) Got my eye on a GS now, perhaps next year!
Professional as ever. You mentioned the image problem, and highlighted some of the common gripes. I know the GS would suit me perfectly, I had the 1150 version, but; and here it is, BM's are not built to the level of days yore. Component failure is common, and that bevel box bearing will fail. I don't trust the media hype surrounding BMW/KTM's, and by judging the respective forum comments, neither do the buying public. You obviously look after yours, but have you seen the condition of a lot of nearly new GS's at dealers- definately not premium quality. Keep up the good work. Jeff Birchall
Nice honest review TMF and to hear the figures you quoted had me hiding behind a pillow but that's maybe because I'm still stuck in the late ninety's early 2000 with my road bike which is an old BMW which I love and don't care if anybody thinks it has an old man image,I even joined the BMW owners club. Don't ride with them very much but they have a massive wealth of knowledge of these machines and have only been to pleased to help. The GS/GSA doesn't appeal to me personally but then a lot of modern motorcycles don't but I can tell you if I was given one I'd only be too pleased to have it, they are popular for a reason and that's because they are (and every body knows it) a fantastic motorcycle. Thanks for all your videos and have a great new year and keep it rubber side down.
Thank you Peter, and yes, like ford Mondeos, there is a reason why these are so popular - as you say, they are bloody good! Thanks for your support and watching my videos this year, here's to a great biking 2016 - all the best TMF (PS I now regret the Mondeo comparison!)
Excellent video. Just about to buy my first GS from Barnstormer in Alton so just what i wanted to hear. Was blown away with the quality on my test ride.
When I hear about the prices of the accessories, for motorcycles in general, just screams of ripoff. £300+ for a top box? It's a plastic box that costs a few quid to make in China..
John from across the pond. Just put the BMW charger on my GS today, nice piece of kit. My wife likes your choice of wine on your workbench. Have a Merry Christmas.
Hi John, wow, well done on getting your wife to watch a video like this one! .....I know from my stats that my views are only 5% from women.....story of my life really!!
TMF it must take forever replying to all the comments! A great review as always and bike looking pristine. Mine is up for 2 years old in Feb (18,000 miles on the clock) dont know if I should sell / keep it. Quite like the look of the Triple Black. Have a great Xmas and hope we get some dry days over the festive period for a "Run Out". I feel for those poor folk up in Cumbria ! Steve, Bristol
+Steve Williams Thanks Steve - Replying to comments is all part of the fun, plus I get to learn loads. If you sell what will you replace her with?? That black does look good but for me I'm not sure it's worth the depreciation hit after 2 years!!! Fingers crossed on the weather - all the best and Merry Christmas - TMF
Thanks for the review. In Australia we don't have any image issues with the GS. Another accessory is the GS tank bag (small) which is a very handy piece for storage for camera, phone etc: plus waterproof. Doing a trip around Tasmania soon which really looking forward to putting the GS through its paces. Total return trip from Brisbane around 5,000km's. Keep up the good work with these reviews. Cheers
+Grant Devine One of these you mean Grant :0) >> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-K71262dFlSc.html Thanks for the kind words, and Happy New Year!
Hi TMF. Ah yes - the review I’ve been waiting for! Very comprehensive indeed. Like me you’re clearly meticulous :) If you’re interested in a few comparisons: my fuel consumption is around 4.9L/100km, if my calculations are correct slightly better than yours. That’s no surprise since I do far more open road riding. I already have 9,000km on the clock after just four months. Annual insurance for just the Beemer is around £385, but your service costs appear to be substantially higher. I’m expecting to pay around £115 for the upcoming 10k service at the dealer. As I mentioned once before, here the Navigator V would set you back around £425 at the dealer. The powers that be here feel we shouldn’t have options, so all we get is the GS with most of those extras you mentioned fitted as standard, which probably amounts to your TE model minus one or two bits. My GSA was sold as a ‘full spec’ machine and came with everything except shift assist and keyless ride. My favourite feature hands down is cruise control - an absolute lifesaver when travelling cross-country on our long dead straight roads. Either way, thanks for the review. And best wishes for Christmas! Cheers, Andy.
+Andrew Harvey Hi Andy - I have a couple of earlier reviews of the GS too if you check out my channel and are interested - thanks for the words of encouragement. Sounds like all round you get a better deal than we do!! Have a great Christmas - TMF
Thanks for the effort and honest professionalism you put into your videos, you speak my language. I'm very seriously considering buying one of these (From BMW Maidenhead also) sometime in the next couple of months and your reviews are a great and very appreciated help. You live very near me which mean your reviews are done in a practically identical riding environment to mine, hence my avid interest. The other contender for me is new soon to be released Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200, I have a very interested eye on one of those also! I currently ride a 2015 Daytona R (which I'm keeping) every day but with all my winter gear on it's a bit cramped and it isn't up to the job of long journeys. Keep up the great work! PS Nice Cheeky Panigale you have there ;)
+Adie Kitachi Thanks Adie - I'm a Triumph fan (hence my Street Triple) but I think the GS is the better bike than the Tiger Explorer 1200 - although that's just my opinion of course, the answer is to test ride them both. The guys at Hertfordshire Triumph are very accommodating (up in Hemel) as are the Bahnstormer boys...thanks for the kind words, let me know which way you eventually go? Cheers - TMF.
I rode a GS from Maidenhead to Henley (nice route) today and I loved it! Amazingly agile for its size and with plenty of power of tap! I'll let you know which I choose :)
The 1250 gs review: The verdict: Bigger motor making more power and torque than a R1200 GS, significantly smoother. It is stronger down low, has it got more midrange and ofcourse the top end is what impresses me the most. But it sure is creamier than the 1200,didn’t expect that. Again the engine is mechanically quieter, less lumpy arguably. The combustion strokes are more masked than before, you can’t feel the engine on idle throttle. Quieter exhaust note than the 1200 - deeper growl. BMW’s Shiftcam is entirely undetectable in use.No surging, no change in engine note. Same Telelever front end, same Paralever shaft drive, same frame, tank, seat, and same semi-active suspension option The 1250 doesn’t feel any heavier than the 1200 while its 5kg heavier in specs than the 1200. Offroad -the smoother low-down performance will make the GS more manageable The 1250’s brakes are as per the 1200 despite the caliper change on the front end. No change in its riding position-wide black bars which is a very, very good thing. I’d say the 1250 is fitter than a 1200 GS off the bottom end less noticeably so in the midrange at part throttle, but significantly more powerful wide open at the top end... so, fitter everywhere.
Currently driving a r1200rt also considered as an old mans bike!! Maybe it's because at 20k plus it's too much money for the younger generation ( I'm 43 btw). Personally I think they're fantastic bikes. Thank for another great video and merry Christmas!!!
Nice review. Love my 2008 R1200GS. I've been thinking of changing it for sometime but can never work out what for, so I just keep running it. 60,000+kms and still goes oh so well.
+Motorcycle Mumbling ...no point in changing for the sake of it, if you like what you have, stick with it! Thanks for the kind words and for stopping by - all the best - TMF
Yes they are great machines, I reckon you'll get a good deal on one of these in a few months as BMW release details of the heavily revised new model for 2017....
Great video , I'm hopefully going to get one come the spring and this reinforces my belief that I'm getting a decent bike , I've enjoyed your videos this year and look forward to next year particularly now you have the Panigale ! In the meantime have a great Christmas !
+Adrian Rigby Thanks Adrian, you won't regret getting a GS, they are just brilliant bikes. Thanks for the kind words and have a happy Christmas yourself, all the best - TMF
Your best vid yet, and that's saying a lot. Trying to figure out why I'm only getting about 47 mpg on my GS. It has 5100 miles so will be going to the shop for service soon. I don't ride it hard but almost have the luggage on for all the stuff it takes to be me so maybe that's it. Anyway keep up the great work.
+Gregory Beckner Thanks Greg...in truth my MPG does vary depending on what I'm doing, my 55 may have been optimistic - I think that was as indicated on the bike so may not tally with reality...I'll pay better attention and report back. Thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF
Have an identical GS.Same Colour.Agreed it a lovely bike.Old man image,well I am an old man! Never found that I get less nods from other bikers.I nod to anyone,scooters,mopeds,learners.Who cares what they ride!If they don't want to nod back, hey!! Probably, surprised that a rider of a big bike nods at them in the first place.Old guys on classics are usually the worst.I won't mention a certain person on a Vincent!!! Well perhaps I will.Gave him a wave in the petrol station.Looked at me like something the Cat dragged in! Then he couldn't Kick start it.I thought well! Your the owner of a Classic Vincent,you won't need my help.But the GS! If it wasn't for the on/off throttle at slow speed it would be the best bike I have ever owned.
Try out the K60 tires next time. The only bad thing about them I can find is the front tire is noisy. One thing is for sure, with tires like that nobody is gonna think you are an old goldwinger or harley man. They do great on the tarmac and better on gravel. I haven't been in mud yet, but just look at them. They are directional tread like mudder tires. :) Great review and I agree with all your stuff. I had to raise the handlebars and lower the pegs to improve riding position and reduce knee and shoulder pain on extended rides. Mine had about 6500 miles, and the only things so far needed are a bulb and tires. The stock rear tire got me stuck on a muddy back road. I thought I was going to have to walk out. There was probably 2500 miles left on them, but they had to go.
Thanks for the video TMF, very informative. Looking forward to taking delivery of my GS in January, will try to keep it looking as immaculate as yours. Merry Christmas to you and look forward to more riding and features in 2016.
Seems like BMW makes amazing bikes. This one goes fast and will pop wheelies all day long, too. Your choice in motorcycles is intelligent indeed, friend. Stay safe!
Sad to say that outstanding BMW service standard is not everywhere for everyone. I purchased RT sometime ago here in Eire and they loved me as long as I kept cash in my hand, when bike started breaking down suddenly there was noone to return my phonecall. It all depends on particular dealer/people...
Great and honest review as usual. As a fellow GS owner I can relate to the strange attitude from some other bikers, not all. Will your foreign trip take you to the BMW Festival at Garmisch? You should be a VIP guest of BMW! I hope to make the trip in 2016.
+Rob Gutteridge Hi Rob - thanks for your kind words, if I'm heading abroad then I'm heading South in search of sunshine! Have a great biking 2016......TMF
You have a fantastic bike there! I have a 2009 BMW F650GS, lovely bike, been riding it for about 1.5 seasons now, had a bit of an accident with it, started repairing it myself. Quite costly!
TheMissendenFlyer Didn't have a scratch one me, I would say it was a miracle! Went too fast in a curve, panicked, didn't look where I wanted to go so I fell off the bike. Had to replace the handle bar, foot peg, and the left button assembly.
Very informative yet again. Thanks for the tip about the steering damper! Not sure if to go new or second hand in the spring. Keep 'em coming! Kind regards, Jon.
Thanks JLO staff, good to hear from you again.....whichever way you go you will love the GS it's a brilliant do it all bit of kit.....all the best - TMF
Great review and agree. I've just had mine for 1 year now and have done 25,000 km - lots of tar and lots of dirt. My only regret is not getting the factory lowered option (too impatient). Only failures have been 1 battery and the start switch, both fixed under warranty. Too many extras fitted and I'm not going to add up the cost :-( Bottom line: Fabulous bike to go anywhere.
i know what you mean by the 'old man' image and the touring only thing, i had much the same thoughts when i was originally looking. I didnt even contemplate the GS for those reasons and some others, that is, until i rode it! Its been 4 months for me, 2.5k miles, i love the thing, everyone who asks me about it, i just say, get one, you wont regret it! I intend to do spain next year myself, beginning of july! Fingers crossed you get the chance too, i think it will be a blinder of a trip! atb M
TMF....merry xmas Just a quick post re switches on the GS and GSA, after a 2500 elm ride a month or so ago I too noticed both the kill switch and the cruise control switches were playing up, took my bike (R1200 GSA LC )into my local dealer a couple of days before xmas and apparently there was a recall on them and so the dealer replaced both switches free of charge.... happy days. So if you still have problems it might be a plan to get them replaced as when I cut the engine in a fairly remote location I could't get the bike to start as the kill switch was locked, (sprayed some water into it, actually it was carbonated water which I shook to get a bit of extra pressure) seemed to work but used the ignition after that :-) All the best for the new year. Blackhawk
+Black Hawk Hi again Black Hawk - how interesting, I never heard about that recall! If that is the case and mine do play up (I don't have serious issues, just once in a while I notice the one switch doesn't quite return to where it should) at least I may be able to get them swapped without having to pay! Cheers for that intel and Happy New Year to you too....TMF
Greetings from South Africa. Great review of the bike, can't believe how much you guys are paying in the UK for stuff! I do a lot of touring with Charley Boorman over here......Keep well
Hey SA adventure! Good to hear from you, don't tell me all this stuff is much cheaper in South Africa too?? It seems we Brits are being ripped off a bit....I hope you are enjoying the Summer, have a great Christmas down there! TMF
Hey Dad, I recognize the image problem. I am 32 and after 11 years sportbikes I now own a 2015 gs. I love it! (Your video's also helped me making the choice for a GS) You could have a chance to make a video of how you do the big cleaning and with what resources? Keep making videos! Regards, Roger (NL)
+R-E-S Thanks Roger - a few people have asked that, I don't want to teach anyone how to suck eggs but maybe I'll add that to my list of pending videos! Thanks for stopping by, Happy Christmas - TMF
Regarding your disappointment with price. I would also like to reduce the damages if possible. I wish you would do a comparison In the feel and complexities from a base GS to one with Dynamic ESA (like yours). There is a scant amount of Information online. I feel you would do an excellent job at explaining and demonstrating the difference for those of us who have a lesser than impressive budget. Please explore & investigate for us if possible/based on your resources, if one could own a base GS and if there could be money saved without regret. Thank-you in advance for even the slightest effort. Very few own a newer Base boxer twin, however because of the lower price, the Base model is so much more accessible to the majority of us! This would also reduce the amount spent in possible maintenance.
Great Review - You briefly mentioned cleaning the difficulty with cleaning, your bike looks brand new! Any chance you could do a video about how you clean it?
+TheMissendenFlyer unfortunately yes and very common. The recovery chap said to me if he had a pound for every one that had switch problems... And I thought German technology was good. Gulp!
I get the comment about image I even shocked the dealer and other gs riders that I wanted a gs. Being 29 people don't expect it, which I don't understand it performs, it can be an exciting ride, it's comfortable and practical... A do it all bike!
+Damian Faulkner Yeah I agree...funnily enough a few years ago I was buying a car and was at a BMW dealer and told him I was undecided between a Mercedes and a BMW and the sales guy said "you're far too young for a Mercedes" (great sales line eh?) - funny how that doesn't work for bikes! Funnily enough I bought the Beemer and then a few years later replaced it with a Mercedes, I still have the Merc and it is a far more enjoyable drive than the BMW ever was!!!! There's some irony in here somewhere...anyway, thanks for stopping by, enjoy the GS and stay young!!! - TMF
Great review! Don't worry about the 'Old Man's Bike' rubbish from the whinging 'Casey Stoner' wannabees! I still adore my 2001 R1150GS, regardless of the comments I receive. I take mine to Europe and she is in her element, you would love it to on your bike, I recommend the BMW meet in Garmisch Partenkirchen in July. Thanks again for a great review, keep it shiny side up!
+Garry Clark Thanks Garry for your words of encouragement - I find it amazing the different reactions I get on each of my bikes, on my dirt bike the horse riders and ramblers think I'm the devil, on my GS other bikers think I'm a sell out, on my Panigale other sports bikers love me, on my Triumph every one loves me!! Just have to pick a bike to go with my mood :0) I'm definitely going to get the GS to Europe this year, stay tuned for the video record....cheers and all the best - TMF
hi there, great video as usual. I just wanted to point out one thing though. I know your videos are viewed by people all over the world and it would appear there are regional differences in the price of BMW servicing. my GS Adventure is due for its 6000 mile service and I was quoted £180 including vat and all materials from my local BMW dealership (this also included the brake fluid change) . Obviously the prices are higher in your neck of the woods. I live in the north east. just thought this was worth a mention as the prices you quoted may give people in other regions an innacurate idea of the running costs!
+stuart fillingham Hi Stuart, thanks for the kind words and good point - it does of course depend on where you have your servicing done. Now my machine is out of warranty I'm less inclined to go to my local BMW dealer and fully expect servicing costs to come way down using my favourite independent engineer. Cheers for stopping by and here's to a great riding Summer ahead eh?
Stuart and TMF, I am a proud T120 owner and watch both your channels religiously. I am mid 20's and would love a big GS, not phased by the old bloke image haha. Thanks for all the work you both put into your videos, keem them coming! Queensland, Australia.
As always, another wonderful review. I live in California and I don’t think BMW has the same “old man” image that you mentioned is common in the UK. I am asked about how often I take it off-road or travel across the US on it. I absolutely adore my R 1200 GS and it is by far the best motorcycle I have ever owned.
+Terry Blanchard It's definitely on the bucket list and loosely planned for 3 years time......but I suspect I will be renting a Harley (got to for that one really).......
+TheMissendenFlyer We shipped 2 x 1200GS from Oz to USA last September (for the whole month) and did 9500km up the coast into Canada and back. Two others in the group were on Harleys.... all I can say is *take your GS*. Harley's cant go around corners ;-)
Interesting, the GS does not have the "old man image" here in the USA. Everywhere I take mine, people come up to me and ask me about it. Ice had younger folks tell me it's "badass". Which it is!
Norfolk Enchance.......never underestimate the Flat Lands! Fair bit of GS bashing does go on. As you say, brilliant bike, iffy image, but that's mainly down to people who cannot afford them.......
Also, my old bike instructor Kevin Sanders from Cambridge (now runs Globebusters) had a GS when I was learning and he had a Guinness World Record for going around the World (with his wife as pillion) in less than 20 days on his GS - so can't be to shabby!
Morning Tris, funnily enough you're not the first to mention that.....glad you approve, not entirely sure there's a video in it, or if there is, it would be a very short one!! All the best and thanks for watching and stopping by......
Yes, I can imagine it would be difficult to make a video on the garage and keep it interesting... Maybe a brief supplementary at the end of another vid...
Interesting comment about the image some have, "an old man's bike", honestly I've been a Harley rider since the 80's Superglides. Even Harley owners critize big baggers as "old man's bikes. I've sold my Harley and bought a 2016 R1200 GSA. Mostly because I got tired of the brand. Personally I believe those who critize do so out of jealousy...who really cares, I love the BMW!,and at 53 I guess I am an old man but with an adventurous heart. If anyone says to me blah blah..I'll give me a dirt shower on my way to my next adventure!, Dave from Canada. Oh love your vids thx
+Dave McMahon Hi Dave, welcome to the GS club! Yeah it's funny how people pick certain bikes and seem to have negative views against them, I agree with you and think there is a lot of jealousy at play here, personally I like all bikes! Thanks for your kind words and for stopping by - All the best - TMF
+TheMissendenFlyer oh, because the bike was only 6 months old when it had its 6000 mile service, it only required an oil & filter change as the brakes etc aren't required until its a year old. Started again now though, with the GSA. Actually, because its the second GSA (first one had a gearbox issue and was replaced) I've now had to run in 3 bikes this year!
Hi mate, if I'd known you were having a ride over Holme moss you could have called in for a brew, only a few miles away. My first service was only £160. Had same problem with sat nav barrel lock & had new front brake fluid reservoir cap but all under warranty. Planning Scotland with wife & friends for next year. Thanks for vids & have a great Christmas. PS. Think I can spot a GoPro under the tree lol.
+TheMissendenFlyer just checked bank statement to make sure I wasn't giving you duff info. 1st annual service was £136.61 that was at rainbow BMW dealership Rotherham. So yes think you need to shop around mate. I put my first RU-vid vid on a few months ago. Wales trip with mates. It's only stills but worth a look. Will upload more when I get hold of the GoPro. Cheers, Karl.
Plus I live in a sea of Harleys, and they don't wave too much either. BMWs are so rare in these parts, I actually had someone say to me that they didn't know BMW made bikes, only cars! Wow, you don't get out much bud!
+ladyknieval Crikey! It's the other way here, hardly ever see a Harley! ...and although I've nothing against them, it seems here in Blighty Harley riders are the very bottom of the food chain, well below us GS jockeys, just above the Goldwing crew :0)
Great video great review, I think a lot of none biking folk out there assume we ride bikes because they are cheap. They'd get quite a shock if they saw this review :-) I nod/wave to all bikers, we all enjoy our various machines. Thanks for sharing your thoughts :)
Just watched this and the follow-on videos included one from "shadetree surgeon" (related to his new-found desire for a GS), which is very much on-point regarding negative opinions of the GS. Personally I think BMW bikes have always been deceptively efficient and well-executed; and for years simply under the radar of most bikers. Now they're a whole different ball of wax. Love the look of the GS as much as the 1000RR. Your cylinder protectors if anything make the bike even more classy, at least to my eyes. Perhaps it's my eyesight! Any interest in a classic bike? Number five? Might crowd the garage somewhat though! Later TMF...
...yeah I'd love a classic bike, in fact I've been to a museum full of 'em today....the subject of a video "coming soon"....thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF
really interesting video, I'm on the look out for one of these,.after watching this video and giving the costs, I'm hoping to get one already specked up.thanks for the info great video infact all your video,s are good to watch
Hello,, We are off in May to the South of France/Spain to ride some of the Pyrenees passes for 10 days. Then in July we are going to Switzerland/Austria to ride the Amazing Alpine passes again !!! taking in the Black Forest in Germany, thats for 3 weeks. Then at the end of September we are going over to Ireland to ride The Ring of Kerry. Cant wait lolol. Regards Rob.
I am i know that lol,, your not here long mate so enjoy what we have today !,,, i smile all day long when i'm away with my mates on the bikes,,,, I love it !!!. Cheer's Rob.
Fantastic review THF! shocking servicing costs though! On the cleaning front would the use of a airline air duster not help? Drying it out etc That's what I'm planning on using👍
+Gsman Thanks GSman - I have a hot air bike dryer that works a treat for getting in all the nooks and crannies....still a right faff though as you blow moisture from one nook to another cranny!......thanks for the kind words, glad you liked the review, all the best - TMF
what really bugs me about BMW dealerships is prices for maintenance services! your first service was rip off in day light if you compare it to price of your 6k one and 2nd year. I paid 350 for 6k and 450 for 12k. I didn't have 600mls one as I bought it ex demo with 2kmls on the clock. when buying S1000r this summer I asked 600mls to be added as part of a deal... and they agreed to it😀 I think with BMW dealers in UK you just need to shop around to avoid overpaying. Good review.
+Pawel Kisiel Thanks Pawel, and yes I agree with you on dealer service costs - it's not only BMW that do this....I can refer you to my Triumph Street Triple long term review, same thing. Local independent guy is half the cost of the dealer and gives great service.....
TheMissendenFlyer I'd expect from BMW dealership same cost for regular service everywhere in UK, as time it takes and materials are calculated by BMW mothership😀 I was recently shocked by servicing my MT09 Tracer at 6kmls service which took 315£ from my wallet, whereas colleague of mine did his at his local Yamaha dealer for 195! Will definitely shop around at 12k which is approaching soon. Yamaha isn't premium brand, but the dealer I went with seems to think otherwise... 😠
I use Wollaston for my bike purchase and aftercare , 600 mile service was £110 and most I ever paid for any kind of service is £235 and that included an MOT after 3 years so I would say your dealer is overcharging you!
That is pretty pricey I must admit but it's quite an amazing bike with everything set up, I would probably keep it till it stops running after all the work on the mods. Also good call on the tracker you definitely don't want that going walkies!
Excellent Review mate, and i couldent agree more about the image of owning the GS, and like you say from other bikers !!!, it's as if we arent riding a REAL motorcycle FFS ,,,, i even get the pee taken out of me by my mates,, until i go past them on the twistys lol. i did 7k miles on mine in Europe last year and am going back twice this year and i wouldent go on anything else !!!. Keep up the good work matey !.
Just stumbled across this clip, and may I say it's a educational step by step talk through that answers all and more questions I had regarding purchase, up keep cost, and reliability. Not only that I got individual parts cost which is excellent. So this is were I go and spend my hard end cash on a bike that hopefully looks like this one. Only one question Steve , is there a reason why you haven't put a complete engine crash unit on (crash cage) ? Thanks Tony
+anthony mcdougall Hi Tony - thanks for your kind words, glad you enjoyed my efforts! I have added cylinder head guards and engine crash bars but held off the crash bars for the top of the bike only because I didn't like the look of them (and felt - maybe incorrectly - the engine is the most vulnerable part on these bikes). Not only that but I've clearly already spent too much on this machine :0) Good luck on finding your new bike, they are fabulous bits of kit - all the best - TMF.
+TheMissendenFlyer Morning, i switched models mainly because i do lots of miles in europe and 70% of the time my wife comes with me, yes the bike is heavy but i find easy to move around and most of the extras i had on standard bike i just transferred on to this one, the bike is not for everyone but it suits my purpose your right thet are not easy to clean but for me thats part of the enjoyment.
+Tony Wheeler Fair enough Tony, did you find the "standard" GS no good for a pillion then? ....I ask as I'm thinking about taking a pillion on mine for the first time (both for me and the pillion!)....
