… you’re in a highly privileged position to be able to ride this brand new machine for an extended period of time, and assess how it is likely to work in the real world… and it comes across that you’re taking the opportunity seriously to try and be as subjective as possible about the experience. I found myself intrigued but also wondering just how having to dive into ‘layered menus’ on the screen to activate features whilst riding ever got signed off as safe??!! The design of the rear lights borders on the unsafe at best (and it’s been covered in the previous model on other channels as potentially dangerous due to its confusing lack of clarity)… and the phrase ‘cruise control radar’ had my eyes rolling… I mean wtf has happened to bikes??!! That said, good job and looking forward to more updates 😁😁👍🏼👍🏼
I decided against getting a triumph explorer after the salesman showed me how"easy" it was to adjust the windscreen...its not easy so "no sale". I don't have a smart phone, I don't play computer games, and I don't buy from anyone who says "it's easy" when it isn't. That Enfields looking better and better .🏍️💨💨💨💨💨💨
Didn't you mean 'objective' as possible? Yah, I don't think layered menus were ever intended to be accessed in urban traffic. What's confusing or unclear about dual rear lights? Yah, interactive cruise control seems over-kill, but customers are buying it, and it does help prevent collisions.
@@garymaclean6903 However, the rear end can be brilliantly resolved while retaining full large head/center lights and separate side turn signals, while also adapting the radar for adaptive cruise control. Just look at how seamlessly Ducati has done it with the Multistrada V4 series
@@hewlett62 The assumption seems to be there is something inherently wrong with dual rear brake and signal lights. Again, these have existed successfully on most other vehicles on the road for a century or more. Does BMW need to make them brighter? Maybe. Do they need to switch to a single centre light and separate turn signal lights? No...
The design of the rear lights for models that have a large centre light (i.e. models introduced since late 2020) presents no safety issues whatsoever, from either a recorded or logical point of view. All that matters is that the following vehicle has seen that the bike is braking, hence why having an large rear light matters. In having removed the rear light the question now is, is the difference in luminosity sufficient such that all drivers would see that the rider is braking, under all conditions. Change in the luminosity in the rear brakes is what matters, whereas the whole argument about whether one can see the indicators or not is a red herring.
Agree 100% that compound rear light and indicators is a massive safety issue, especially when braking at the same time, as will so often be the case. It’s a danger on cars with even bigger light clusters, so even moreso when compressed closer together on a bike.
However, the rear end can be brilliantly resolved while retaining full large head/center lights and separate side turn signals, while also adapting the radar for adaptive cruise control. Just look at how seamlessly Ducati has done it with the Multistrada V4 series
You just confirmed two of my initial observations about the new GS. The rear lighting is minimal at best, and down right dangerous ⚠️ at worst ! And from the front, it has a “face” only a mother could love 😱! But then I guess I’m not the market audience, as it’s just too much money for me to feel comfortable spending on a “guilty pleasure”. (But then you covered that too 😉.)
Well, if 1250 GS Adventure is "The father" perhaps BMW has thought that 1300 should be "The mother's ugly boy". Can't wait to see how BMW thinks about how "The mother" will look like.
Surprised you didn’t pick up on the gold handlebars - I know they tie in with the wheels but I still think they look awful. The price is bonkers, but there are people who will pay it so as long as that’s the case they’ll get away with it. Your point about PCP is spot on and it’s why people who don’t have £1,000 in the bank can run around in £50k cars they’ll never own. Looking forward to the next update.
Totally agree with your thoughts on PCP deals. In my mind it’s the main reason why cars and bikes have become so expensive. Dealers are even advertising cars/bikes by monthly payment instead of price. I went as far as making an inquiry about such an advert and they wouldn’t tell me the price of the vehicle or indeed how much I was getting for a trade in. They just wanted to tell me the alteration to the monthly payment. Sorry but that’s not the way I like to do business. Another grip is the fact they expect you to spend many thousands of pounds on the strength of an hours test ride. Ask for a longer test and they look at you as if you’ve just asked for an hour with their wife. Why can’t customers who are looking to spend hard cash get the bike for a few days to make sure it’s the right one for them. For that keep up with the vids - they’re an enjoyable watch.
The quick shifter on the new Transalp is literally like silk! As for PCP’s it’s all part of the manufacturer/ retailer scam by keeping the actual cost from customers!
Because it’s not your bike and if you damage it it’s out of their bottom line just ride it for an hour 24 times if that’s how long you need . I bought a Triumph Speed Triple Rs and I didn’t even test ride it, I just thought it’s a Triumph it’s got 180 bhp and it’s got Brembo brakes so I bought it, simple really!
The cash buyer gets the worse deal nowadays. I was looking at buying a 1 Yr old vw tiguan and asked about a deal for cash and they wouldn't budge a penny on a 32k purchase yet offered me £250 contribution and 2 free services if I took it on pcp . Cash is no longer King .
Agree , if we went back to a cash only society the roads would certainly be alot quieter . I don't think u really appreciate something when ur just renting it , not the same as when u save up for something, everything now is easy come easy go .
@@DucatiDale Crazy. During the last recession the most reposessed car in the UK was a Q7. It seems people getting lured into going up the ladder too far.
As a 1250 gsa owner the large frontal area was what attracted me at 6ft 4in gives much better wind protection than others. Also like the beefy looks that new light looks awful and I guess doesn't tilt like 1250. As to price guess new gsa will be £25k plus fully loaded. Will be interesting to see how well these sell and if front end redesigned at some point not changing mine for one of these anytime soon. Another great real world video thanks Andy
The National Observers in my IAM club are all having the same niggle re the rear lights on their various BMW'S. Associates are claiming the indicators are not clear during instruction rides.
I think combining two extremely important lights into one is not a positive move….this is a retrograde step IMO. I think I would rather forgo blind spot and distance cruise over dedicated acted stop and indicator lights. You might argue that the front indicator is the most important (comments I have seen elsewhere) but one of the most dangerous moves is waiting to turn right on a busy road. With rear light and indicator combined I think this is a recipe for disaster and for that reason alone I would not buy this motorcycle….price being the other. I should say that I have had a GS of some description or other since 1984 so I am probably not the target market for the new model.
@@mac22011964 I agree with you. On the Tiger 1200, Triumph was able to incorporate the radar sensor at the rear without deleting the main tail light. This latest design option for the tail lights by BMW is irresponsible.
Niggly rear lights , but you still bought the bike, and then complain about safety. Coming from a safety orientated organisation, bit strange I think. Ist rule of risk assessment don't do it if you don't have to. In this case you definitely don't have to, it is a personal choice. Have you taken this up with BMW?
great report, I absolutely share the 5 points that you don't like, but I would add one more that particularly bothers me on my GS 1300 TRIPLE BLACK and that is the lack of backlighting on the buttons
Fair review, bear in mind it’s a shaft drive adventure bike not a chain driven naked or sports bike. The quick shifter will not compare to an R1/ s1000r etc- due to the delivery a shaft drive gives to a chain driven bike. I run an R1200R with GA and yes it is a little clunky compared to a chain driven bike- especially in lower revs, wind it on and it’s silky smooth.
With the burger button, set the heated functions to the hold button and the screen to the direct button. Those are the features you'll need most on the road. Greetings
@@belousoa9330 3 functions! Screen, handlebar heating and seat heating. If you want to operate more functions on your handlebars, you need a bigger handlebar. 😆
I have them the other way round- I need to fiddle with grip and seat heating far more than screen height. In winter anyway. You can still change up to 4 riding modes too, on the right hand bar. Plenty enough I think
Hates a strong word fella . Dislike intensely sounds better . Had many variants or the 1200/1250 and won't be buying this abomination! Personally I dislike it intensely 😜
There are too many on screen controls on many bikes tbh when riding you should be concentrating on the road not the screen just my opinion All the best 👍👍👍
The same with many new cars, they advertise a touch screen the size of a TV where most of the controls are situated, and you are distracted trying find various controls. A definite safety hazard.
Agree entirely with you, (apart from using the hate word!) on the points you raise regarding the bike. I actually rode to my nearest dealer on my 40+ yr old RS to take a look at one in the flesh yesterday. I have to say the model you’re riding, in the green and gold, does look much better in the flesh but certainly not worth over £23k. I also agree with you that PCP type finance deals are to blame for the increase in prices of both bikes and cars to ridiculous levels as all people seem to look at are the monthly figure. This of course traps them effectively into replacing their bike/car every 3yrs 😔
I openly admit that I tend to go for for the latest fully loaded model and replaced my previous 1200 at 11k miles 😊 The 1300 unfortunately just doesn’t create any desire to change and the marginal improvements are more than offset by points you raise. The final straw for me is that the luggage is awful and adds more complexity/cost. I intend to keep my 1250 longer and may even try and purchase another low mileage 1250 when I get to 25k.
@@TheMissendenFlyer Agreed and that may be a problem when I almost certainly go looking for a low mileage 1250 🤣 Great video and I really enjoy the excellent content that you produce 👍
Deep dive user interfaces are my absolute pet hate. As motorcycles have become more unnecessarily complicated with all the gew gews and gadgets and "must haves" they become less relevant to me. I have contended for quite a while now that menu driven functions are way more dangerous to use on the road than a few simple switches. As a previous BMW GSA owner (1200) this bike is not one that interests me at all, as good as it may be. I will stick with my 2016 Africa Twin for a while yet I think. Good review Andy.👍
For 24 grand you don't get illuminated buttons! Big miss on safety. I would have liked the wide display they use on the GTL with nav on this bike at this price. Ducati and Triumph offer all these "premium" options as standard. Only the accessories are optional.
Safety ? From illuminated buttons? Never had a bike with illuminated buttons in my life, and did quite mileage in 38 years, own 11 bikes today, none of them has illuminated buttons… nice yes but safety feature? Not IMHO
Didn’t mind the looks initially thinking it’d be a grower but sadly that’s not happening for me yet. But the impact it’s having on the value of my 1250 ( according to a large BMW dealer) means i’ll stick with what i have for a while yet . No bad thing
The lights on these GSs are going from bad to worse. The existing multi-function indicators on the 1250 are already bad enough as they make the turn signal less visible when braking and now they've completely done away with the tail light. Why not stick to how it's always been and have a much clearer separate tail/stop light and single function indicators? Crazy. And there's no excuse either, because the V4 Multistrada demonstrates that you can have rear facing radar whilst still retaining a separate tail light.
Affraid the looks haven't grown on me still, tho I've stll to see one live but not expecting my opinion changing. Especially as you have highlighted the rear lights area. I find it hard enough seeing the indicators/running light combination on most cars these days, especially during daylight, so on a motorcycle I would imagine it to be even harder to see. So refreshing to hear your views of things to dislike about this bike, being a GS admirer and long time owner that you are sir.
When BMW released the first images of the new 1200GS I found it gorgeous at first sight, and I kept this sensation after years of ownership. For the 1300GS I think you'll get accustomed with its face ugliness but the rest of the world won't and they will think of you like you think of men who (somehow) married an impossibly ugly wife. Although if you are self confident enough you won't give a cake about it.
I totally agree with the comment by adamnun9723 regarding the rear light or lack of one. How the hell did that get type approval for this country. It is not many years ago that bikes had to fail the MOT if fitted with multi function LED rear lamps. It was regarded as interaction between the side, stop and indicator lamps. Personally that would prevent me from buying the bike even if I had the £24,000. Your riding was definitely affected by you trying to access that menu it was very clear on the video. Both things not safe in my opinion.
@mikethebikemt07tracer Yeah. Some of our American friends have already announced that this taillight design will not pass homologation in their country because the law requires a separate main brake light - as I understand it. How BMW will/won't sell it there is a mystery to me. Relying on an exemption is probably not an option?
I spent a few months with the older version 1990s as a co worker went over seas for a holiday in Europe, they are amazing good bikes. But for us cash strugglers in theory for the cost of the new GS you could potentially get two 310 GS and the 310 naked Roadster and jacket and helmet kit all BMW of course. I it’s sad because they would sell more now the big Harley clones suffer from the same problem. And I must say Harley do as well. They have priced them selves out of reach of the common man or woman
PCP’s filter bikes into the used market and no doubt you’ll be able to pick up a used 1300 with 3000 miles for £15k. That said, I’m not defending BMW for their pricing.
Thanks Andy for another honest impressions video. Your comments about the integration of rear running/brake lights and indicators in my view also applies to a similar trend in cars. I agree it makes indicators less obvious to following drivers.
Nice video! Concerning point 3...... you can set your windscreen as "long press" on the hamburger button. So short press -> heating; long press -> windscreen. With this manner you can allocate two functions without having to go in the menu.
The windshield could've been manually adjustable in the same manner as on the Multistrada V4s. All it takes is one finger for 1 second, at any speed. Also, bmw could've kept the button for the ignition from the 1250, and with that, left the button for heating as before.
Interesting video, Andy. I've always used the term "false neutral" to refer to the selection of a neutral gear where the selector forks are incorrectly positioned between two gears such that neither set of cogs is properly engaged. If the N light comes on it can't be a "false neutral" although it might be an "unwanted" or an "unexpected" neutral. 😉 Richard
Thanks Andy for your sterling work reviewing bikes. I've recently retired at a youthful 66, seriously contemplating buying my first new bike ever (always bought used). I own 3 bikes, my favourite being a 2005 XL1000 Honda Varadero, simple, no ABS, no fuel gauge, no gear indicator....very basic. I love it to bits. It's an old iron horse that's never let me down, ridden thousands of miles on it, a keeper, but it's time to give it some pasture. I'm taking a keen interest in you mentioning the 1300GS base model. I wonder how many guys like myself might find the base model the right bike for the job. I watched you hauling through the test bike's menus. That will drive me crazy. Maybe you could expand on this line of thinking as you continue evaluating.....thanks
Great comment, Mark. I agree with you entirely. Simpler, the better. I have the Varadero's cousin, the VTR 1000 Firestorm. No ABS, no traction control, no power settings, no cruise control, etc. I could go on. Just swing a leg over, turn the ignition on, pull the choke (if cold), into gear and away you go. Simple as. Wonderful.
Agree with you on the aesthetics and other points. I have a 2018 BMW GSA, I think it looks way better than this new model. Motorrad needs to go back to the drawing board. Keeping my 2018 model, was the 1st year with TFT & really like it.
Sorry to hear you don't like the looks of it. I think it's one of the most important things in a bike. One must LOVE his bike and be excited to see it every morning If the bike doesn't grow on you, I'd buy it off of you any time 😊 Cheers mate! Drive safe and keep the vids coming
Excellent points made as usual. The cost of new bikes is getting silly and for younger and or new riders it is already a very complex and expensive process to get into motorcycling as it is. You have all the tests to pass, the clothing to buy and then the bikes are getting daft money. This is a very nice bike and I would not expect a new rider to buy one but the whole cost thing is across the board and this just drags the cost of cheaper bikes higher by manufacturers setting higher and higher benchmarks on cost.
You forgot to mention the lack of backlit switchgear …..oh…..and the small matter of the worldwide recall of bikes to fit a new start button so they don’t all catch fire.Good old BMW , releasing a bike too early and letting the PCP lemmings be the beta testers 😜
Some very interesting points raised. Unfortunately I’ll never be in a financial position to own one. As an engineer I can really appreciate the technology in this machine but as a motorcycle traveller I feel the technology merely masks the essence of motorcycling . I for one would much rather be engaged with the spectacular scenery and chatting to locals rather than thumbing my way through menus . Motorcycling is pure escapism from the screen infused tech filled world . Fantastic video sir and to those who earn enough money to buy one enjoy it and I hope it takes you on the adventures you want to see through .
The headlight thing while not the best looking, you don’t see it when you’re sat on the bike. Does it put a smile on your face when riding? If so a winner. As you say there’s no bad bikes. Like beers really, some better than others. Look forward to the next video
Yes it definately puts a smile on your face when you ride the bike, it is a lovely thing to ride for sure....defo the best GS from a riding perspective no doubt about that.
Doesn't matter that you don't see it when riding. I think most people want that curb appeal, that buzz when you're walking up to the bike or looking at it parked from the cafe window. (imo)
Interesting point regarding the most basic bike you could buy. When I was looking to purchase the then new R1250GS, I was told by Bahnstormer BMW, Alton to think very carefully about the basic model, as they would not take one in part exchange should I ever wish to trade it in. I believe that it was because they thought they would struggle to resell it due to the fact, as you highlight, its got none of the features that anyone would want.
That mirrors my experience with Bahnstormer exactly. When I was interested in a (then) new 1200 GSA with none of the extra packs they basically suggested that they would not order it - and if I forced them it would take many many months to be made/delivered as it was virtually unheard of. Bizarrely about 3 months later I traded my standard GS for a 2nd hand low mileage nearly new basic spec GSA at Bahnstormer- so go figure!
@@TheMissendenFlyerIn a few months, check the registrations when the Q4 data is published. Up to the end of Q3 - again in relation to the RT - there were just 10 RTs registered compared with 337 RT LEs.
If you double click the burger button, the heated seat and grip menu come up, then use the rocker to adjust. This is standard, then you can program the rocker by going into the menu by highlighting a function....
Great synopsis as always. The rear lights set-up looks a real safety issue, even a danger. Not sure what can be done about the radar block as I guess the size can't be reduced with current tech? The front light is hideous and the menu looks a total nightmare. As for the price, well it does have a badge with BMW on it....
The radar block can't be reduced in size, but more effort can be done to camouflage/integrate it more into the styling. On the front BMW could raise it a bit higher and hide it behind a proper cowling. At the rear, grouping the tail lights around it would already integrate it more: bolt the indicator stalks on the sides of the radar block, bolt the rear light underneath teh block and bolt the brake light on top of the block and it already looks far more harmonious.
@@tjroelsma Can't be reduced in size??? I recommend to take a look at the Ducati Multistrada V4. I have a PikesPeak and the radar block is almost half the size of this one on a BMW 1300. So a full size tail light, plus separate turn signals, fit perfectly on the rear :-)
@@hewlett62 I'm not saying it can't be done, your Ducati being an example of this, but I guess it depends on multiple factors: 1. the range of the radar 2. the sensitivity of the radar 3. the redundancy (larger radars are less sensitive to dirt, rain etc.) You'd have to do a comparative test with both bikes to see what the difference between the two radars is. I simply can't imagine BMW mounting a radar that is twice the size without (a) good reason(s).
@@tjroelsma But come on: by reverse logic, I could say that I can't imagine Ducati making a small plastic cover for the rear radar just for aesthetic appeal, and thus also greatly reducing range and sensitivity. If I'm driving and have ACC set, I can see the warning in the left (right) rear view mirror by the LED indication - depending on the speed of the vehicle overtaking me in the fast lane. The speed vector of that vehicle is compared in the control electronics to my motorcycle and then according to some implemented logic, that Blind Spot Detection light comes on for me (whoever, the system is a derivative of known systems from cars). It works perfectly, neither too late nor too early. Just enough so that if I start carelessly overtaking into his lane, I don't fly in front of him. So BMW would (if I concede your point) the increased sensitivity and range - because a much bigger piece of plastic - would achieve what extra in practice? As far as I can tell, both manufacturers use the same Bosch system in principle. It's very hard to assume that BMW got or made (along with electronics) a better Bosch based radar system than Ducati uses a Bosch based radar system. My opinion is that the much larger piece of plastic on the rear of the BMW 1300 that covers the actual radar unit is not any more sensitive, nor does it have much more range than the Ducati - in fact, it will not be more effective. Yes, there will be some reason for BMW's size, but adequately increased efficiency of the actual system probably won't be it :-). We'll see - I'll ask Ducati directly about it, I'll have that option soon.
5) Lights fully agree. Dangerous 4) Disagree. Operative word is "Quick" so for use when getting a lick on not bimbling around the highstreet. That is what a clutch is for. 3) Agg yes but better than no adjustment at all. Go with most of us. Set and ride 2) As a non GS rider, I think the looks are great and would actually consider one in this guise. The old one looks like riding a huge topbox. You call it presence. I call it bulk. 1) Price is nuts and remember £4k plus of that 20+k is tax. Also why is PCP 9%? that is mad. On PCP the repayment would be closer to £30k. How can Suzuki PCP be 2.5% and yet BMW is 9% plus? FInance companies are ripping riders off.
UUH-OOH, Andy you are a brave man, messing with the Scottish Flag, normally I warn people about Hoodies,but you better watch out for skirts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I dont understand all the "RU-vidrs" complaning about quickshifters on BMWs, without anybody mentioning that the bike is shaft driven, and that BMWs have been clunky for almost a 100 years, it is much easier to make a quickshift smooth on a chain driven bike,where you can incorperate cushions!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Another vote against the rear light configuration. I think it's a safety issue and I hope the aftermarket comes up with a solution. Also, I think it was a mistake to move the power button away from the center to the right switch gear. That's a non standard place to have it and it takes away a spot that could have been used for something you use more often, like heated grips.
Your comments about BMW pricing are very valid. The word "hate" is more suited to social media influencers, not readily associated with a highly respected motorcycle journalist.
Well I don't regard myself as a journalist, just a hobbyist but that's very nice of you to say! Sadly if you want to get through the noise of RU-vid you have to use stronger language to trigger the algorithms....
A lot of 1250GS owners who have integrated rear lights have bought a converter kit to separate brake lights and indicators. No backlit switchgear. Great deals on the 1250s now in my local dealerships.
I have done >80K miles on 3 GS's before the R1300, so like you I am a fan. The biggest thing I have noticed with the R1300 is that the point that the previous GS's said no more power, i'm getting buzzy and you don't have any more handeling left, the new bike goes a bit further with all of that and is fun doing it. Wait till you have a dry road in dynamic and spank it. :)
Just out of interest, how much have you used the radar cruise control? Is it really something that we all need on our bikes??? I get it's prehaps branded as a safety feature, but it clearly comes at a premium price
I agree with all your points, I’d also add it’s lost some character and the ride is harsher and has definitely lost its appeal somewhat. I’d also say these integrated light are dangerous !!! they have been around a while now . I’ve sometimes missed my mates indications and could of easily hit them 😢
When it is generally accepted that using a mobile phone while driving is a dangerous distraction how can big colourful displays with involving menu options possibly be OK? (As you demonstrated on that roundabout).
Yep spot on. Scrolling through your phone when riding/driving is considered so bad here in England that it's points on your licence and fines if caught.
Andy, I totally agree about the lack of a dedicated rear light. I regularly ride with my wife , mother of my children. It is very important to me to be as visible as possible from both front and rear bikes are already difficult to see it would seem..
According maintenance schedule of the gs 1300, drive shaft need to be replaced. Due to all the problems with the old models, also rt, they are free serviced every 60.000km under warranty. Bmw changed there policy.
Absolutely spot on Andy. That multitude of gizmos should come with a 'do not adjust whilst riding' warning. I don't like the chinese headlamp look, efficient as it seems. When one pays top dollar, it surely must be impeccable, and that, it is not. Rear lights too small. Non-illuminated switchgear. Extra for a centre stand. I hope Motoraad haven't shot themselves in the foot with the 1300. I am soooo content with my simple 1200LC.
I agree on safety....drivers in cars don't pay attention to begin with and with smaller and not as noticable - throw in the use of the whizzy wheel while riding to change multiple items....not good. COMPLETELY agree that they took the GS out of the GS....when I did my video on it at the GS Trophy selection competition in the US this past fall it's the first thing I realized - looked like a 310GS on steroids....ha!!....agree on pricing - in the US here if custom one out it's $27-30K....end of the day - I feel they are chasing Ducati instead of stay with the Spirit of the GS....enjoy it...can't wait for more!!!
Good one, Andy. Another aspect of PCP is that the acquisition of high end products has been made so easy, that any exclusivity and uniqueness has just gone out the window.
Enjoyed the honest vid. There have been 2 recalls. It's the IHS (Involuntarily Heated Seat) system at fault. BTW 3:11 That was a genuine neutral, you've not been farming long enough to get used to the gearbox. @@TheMissendenFlyer
Great summary, My Flyer. I must say that I agree with everyone of them. after more than 20 years and nearly 300,000kms across a total of five GS/GSAs, these are some of the reasons that I seriously doubt that my next bike will be GS or GSA again, sad to say.
It’s a fair point IMHO - likes and dislikes works for me. There was an explanation within the piece, putting the comments into context about the bike overall, but I really agree with the back lights, complex tech (not just a BMW issue) and the cost! Oh my! 😮 I’m old enough to remember when biking was a cheap form of transport as well as a laugh. Hey ho - first world problems and all that. 😊
It is just a word mate. It has to be said, I farkin hate that it doesn’t have a designated rear stop light. Plus I hate the front end, looks like crap.
My 1300 has been delayed untill March and have now decided to cancel it Im buying an F750 GS instead Totally agree with you on the rear lights and front looks Also the button/ menu layout The price is way to high mine came in just short of 23k and controls need back lighting
100% agreed with everything you said. And thank you for the honesty unlike many so called influencers sucking up to the Manufacturers for free trips and dinners. If BMW hired selected current and past owners of the 1250, 1200 GS GSA Models as consultants, this bike would have never ever been released for sale. But, BMW Designer's arrogance and lack of paying attention and listening to the actual owners could have prevented this outcome. This is a pretty sad outcome.
Hate, is a strong word and hardly applicable. Try, things I dislike about.. Things that annoy me a bit about….etc. BTW I agree with some of your points! Although I like the new headlight and the menu button can be programmed for two features. I’ve found the quick-shifter smoother than the clutched gear change. But we both should remember that the bikes will loosen up and bed in with time. Another slight annoyance is that the bash plate under the engine is not a solid plate, it is full of holes, so will need to be removed to properly clean the underside of the bike. Keep up the good work!! Real world reviews.
I'm with you on every one of those negative factors. Those rear lights are really a bad idea. I'm going to continue to ride my 2018 BMW R1200GS and not give another thought to the new R1300GS. Plus, I have a factory service manual for my bike and now no one can obtain a factory service manual for a BMW motorcycle.
Ditto, for me the 1200 gives me all I want from a motorcycle to enjoy the pastime. I reckon that the prices have been deliberately engineered to maximise profit while they can.
I guess my top beef is I don't own one. I like the looks. I agree that rear light set up is unnecessarily inadequate. The menus need to be more configurable to personal priorities. If the windscreen is useless down, then why make it adjustable. But for me, the biggest niggle, very silly I'm sure, is the size of the key fob. You could paddle a canoe with it. Or grill a full breakfast on it.
There are definitely a few things that I don't like about that bike as a 1250 owner. However, I took it for a test ride for a day anyway and was very surprised. Driving experience is highly refined, and when I came back to my 1250, the 1250 immediately looked "old". Didn't expect the bike to convince me so quickly. Ordered a triple black, looking forward to delivery in March.
I think a lot of people tend to overdo it with the options on their BMW R1300 GS. For me, the sweet spot is the TE version equipped with the comfort package and finished in triple black, coming in at £19,290. This choice offers a motorcycle loaded with both features and technology.
You can address the problem of complex controls, and the very high price by buying a less specked out version. For myself I am tempted by the new 400cc Triumph. I think it’s beautiful, and I think it’s all I need, and it looks like a spectacular bargain in a world where prices have largely gone insane.
Brilliant honest review. Thanks. I just cannot commit to the 1300, so think I'll end up with the 1250, or stick with my 1200. I just don't need all the electronic aids. Another thing I hate is that I have to buy all new panniers, they changed the design.
And finally, I totally agree about the integrated rear lights. There's plenty of room below the rack for a strip of LEDs for rear and brake lights. I'm expecting a slew of GS riders being rear-ended before too long.
Totally agree with your negative points very well said. Its absolutely crazy how BMW keeps giving us features that we dont particularly ask for and they charge us a pretty penny yet the gearbox and quick shifter is still lagging behind
Whilst I know some of your observations are personal, here is my thoughts of your findings. 1. Windscreen - surely navigating through a simple menu using a quick button is easier than trying to reach over and manually adjust the screen. On the fly. 2. Quick Shifter - I find the quick shifter is a big improvement over previous and would never expect the boxer engine to be as good a 4 cylinder. 3. Rear Lights - Personally I like the rear tail lights integrated as one, something you see often on cruiser bikes, so can only assume there was a requirement for it by others to tidy it up. 4. Front Design - The light that is defo the marmite one, but it is very bright, again I like it however even more now that it looks like the St Andrews Cross 🏴🏴🏴😀😀😀 5. Price - The listed price of the Black Edition full spec is the same as a Multistrada V4 Radar with similar specification so would appear that’s the going price for such spec although I accept it’s getting ridiculous expensive to own some bikes. 6. The only thing I would have really liked to have seen for me as a GS owner would have been backlit controls, disappointed they never made it to the upgrade. I’m looking forward to your next review 👍👍👍
I quite like the way the new GS looks. I admit, though, it doesn't look as rugged as the out-going version, but it probably is just as capable. It's a matter of symbolism and there is a long history of making off-road vehicles deliberately unattractive even if they are rarely taken off road. BMW is acknowledging this is primarily a commuting/touring motorcycle.
I'm with you Andy, I can forgive the slightly ugly front light but the radar front and back looks stuck on with no thought. Maybe if they had colour coded them in some way it would look more integrated. The tail light issue does seem dangerous to me. The best looking of the adventure bikes I think.
I have a R1250 GS (and a 1992 R100GSPD) the lighting set up on the 1300GS for the rear is absolutely shocking all because the need to fit more pish on your motorcyle ie radar etc.I do find the BMW configurator for the GS more of an 'anti configurator' never seem to get the bike I want.Enjoyed your vid .Keep telling it how it is .Thankyou .
Yes, those rear lights are just dangerous as far as I am concerned. Agree with you on other points too - nothing wrong with a manual screen height adjuster (cheaper, less to go wrong as well) and as for trying to do all that switch-gear stuff while riding - difficult and dangerous. Be good if you could do a direct comparison between this and, say, a similarly-spec'd Tiger 1200 and/or Multistrada...
Glad to see a real world review, Andy. I concluded many years ago that BMW gearboxes/gear changes could only be compared to BMW. Hardly great but it’s a matter of balancing the downsides to the up. With you totally on the menu driven grips and screen. Utterly daft and so often criticised but still not listened to. The GS/GSA looks have always been quirky in a purposeful way. I’ve always liked the asymmetry of the headlights. The new headlight and that bland expanse of radar plastic look dreadful. I hear that the light is that shape to meet some new Euro nonsense. The price is ludicrous and, like you, a bit of tapping on the configurator got me north of £25k. Won’t happen. I’d go for a late GSA 1200 with the TFT screen and save more than half of that. Unless the new GSA ticks more boxes…….. Cheers, Ian
I own a 2020 Suzuki VStrom 650 XT Adventure, I bought it a year and a half ago for $8500 with only 1900 miles on it. It does everything I want and besides traction control has no gimmick I know of and I don’t miss it. It lets me ride which is what I bought it for. No distractions or complicated electronics that are often the reason the bike ends up at the dealer($$$$$😩). The money I save lets me take a couple of nice trips and still have lots of money left. The fascination with big complicated bikes is fed by the big bike makers advertising campaigns. My V easily does 80 mph and I really don’t need to go any faster, apart from the fact that more than 70 mph is illegal most places. I understand Mr Fly makes a living reviewing these things and he reviewed the V as well as the N.C. 750 CD which I also have and love and he gave both of them a favorable review, to his credit. My vote is to keep it simple, affordable and out of the dealer shop topic the myriad niggles that go wrong on those bikes. Enjoy the ride!
I think you have talked yourself into keeping your current R1250. I would with all those Arctic memories. Agree about the tech: had an S1000R and traded for a new CB500X and haven't looked back. Simplicity in action.
Great video TMF, love the bike, not going to cancel my order just yet. Been told today it’s built and on its way to the uk. I wont tell my new bike you’ve dissed it when it arrives....(just pulling your leg). Ride safe pal.
I've never ridden a GS and only owned a new BMW K1100LT back in the 90's. I appreciate what I believe are your honest comments and I agree the price is high for this kind of bike. I definitely have a difficult time with the visuals and some of that is probably connected to my geezer age. Finally, and as you mentioned several times, these are things you dislike about the bike; maybe "hate" is a little strong, although that front visual could be construed that way. Enjoy the bike while you have it.
Will do Janes - it is a lovely thing to ride for sure. Sorry about the use of "Hate" - sadly the RU-vid gods don't look favourably unless a bit of sensationalism is used - everyone is at it on RU-vid these days.....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Andy, I completely understand what you meant, but I know there are some sensies out there who would take umbrage with this comment. Thanks again for all the videos.
Our local bmw bike garage is closing here in Norwich. We mainly think it’s because of the prices of these bike and it’s not so much a wealthy area. People who have brought one have cancelled their orders.
They've also closed the Harley dealership. People don't want or can't afford £20,000-£30,000 bikes. You can buy a new Kawasaki Z1000SX with 4 year warranty for £9,999. A much better bike.
Great review of a real world ownership experience, thank you. A fair point about scrolling through menus to find functions, maybe a step to far putting everything in a menu system, a manual screen doesn't feel that much of an inconvience compared to the danger of taking our eyes off of the road, which let's face it, is never a great idea. I totally agree on the pricing structure/pcp effect. It seems to me we are coming to a fork in the road moment. We can go all in with something like a fully loaded GS (if you have the pockets to finance it) or we can go a more back to basics route with something like the Transalp. Fair enough, none of the gadgets but a solid bike and until a few years ago it has more electrics that we could have wished for, is the GS really worth two and half times the asking price of a transalp. Maybe, but it is becoming an interesting choice to make. At least there is a choice which is at the end of the day all that really matters.
Hey TMS! Great video! I did a little research and shopping and the 2023 GS loaded is around 20,400 euros here in the US, converted dollars to euros. That's not cheap but the R1300GS is 24,000 euros (25,590 USD). That's specked out on BMW website. What the dealers actually charge is something else. I'm seeing them in showrooms for 28,000 euros (30,300 USD) here in the US. My 2023 GSA Triple Black was 22,711 euros (24,600 USD). That's the adventure model. It had everything on it except the adaptive headlights and heated seats. I actually wanted both those options but the dealership here did not purchase any GSAs with those two options. I did a search and found some like mine with those two options, but add another 3,000 euros. I chose not to pay that. And the price quoted was the out the door price at this dealership. No dealer price ad ons. It was the MSRP on the sticker. I paid my own tax, title and license fees in my home State. I bought the bike in a different State. All that was around 2,200 USD which is about 2,031 euros. I chose to pay that myself and not have it added into the financing. I paid a nice downpayment up front and got great financing and I'm extremely happy. I certainly do not need anymore power. I'm an older fart and don't need that thrill anymore. And yes, the gearbox is a bit clunky when using the gear assist pro (GAP), however, I did see a video where it was said to get the best use out of the GAP, do not let off on the throttle when shifting. Up or down shifting. I know you want to as we all have learned to let off the throttle when shifting with a clutch. But don't do that using the GAP. I tried that and it was much smoother. Even on more accelerated gear shifts, it wasn't bad at all. But if I let off on the throttle, even a bit, clunk! I think you know this though. So...picking a model, if you want a new one, find a used 2020-2023 GS and go that route. Even a new 2023 is going to be close to 9,000 euros cheaper and it looks great! I still think your 1200 looks great though.
@@riom5 It’s not much different at a lot of dealerships in the USA either. Back in October of 2016. I went to buy a GS Adventure and the people at that dealership were so rude to me! Dude asked me if I could afford it. I was wearing jeans and a t-shirt. I told him I made $120,000 a year and had $5,000 cash in my pocket. But it would be a cold day in hell if he ever got a penny of it! I went and bought a Harley Davidson FatBoy S about an hour later. But I finally got my GSA this past September. I love both of these bikes. Take care over there! I got to visit Germany twice back in 1995. I was in the Air Force and went there for some training. Ate a ton of Jaeger schnitzel and drank a lot of the famous beers there. Gained about a pound a day! 🤣🤣 It was worth it!
