2022 BMW R1250GS 'Short Guy' 1,500 Mile Review. Pros-Cons. Best Motorcycle EVER!?

A short review of the 2022 BMW R1250GS Rallye. The pros, cons and overview of accessories, also a short tutorial on the proper usage of the quick-shifter. Enjoy!
Also a few items I missed...MPG's are approx 30mpg in city and 45mp highway.
no place to hang your helmet! had to buy a $25 accessory to hang it from the frame.
Thanks again!

[@rbrucerogers]

You might want to try the "footpeg mount": put your left foot on the peg and then swing your right foot over. Gives you a little more height, which can be especially helpful if you have a topcase on. There is a video on KZbin that covers it.

[@MrRodwatson]

I'm 6.2", and I do this on my AT. No shame. I'm also 49 years old and the legs just aren't what they used to be...😔

[@dennisgreene7164]

Nothing wrong with the Champion the WonderHorse mount - works well for me.

[@jeancpt]

Running up to the topbox, frog jumping it and double somersault is another option.. 🤣🤦

[@yaz5627]

I was literally going to comment that lol you gotta hop on like its a horse 😄 No need to throw ur leg over the entire thing everytime u get on

[@denny6281]

@@dennisgreene7164 Just like getting on a horse! I have the exact same bike as Micah.

[@maxkunzke8995]

Congratulations on your GS, it is really an awesome bike, but as you pointed out, it is expensive. I hope you do not mind if I give you a recommendation that makes a very big difference, no matter if someone is short or tall. Try getting on and off the bike by first stepping on the footpeg. Hope it helps. Safe riding.

[@maxflight777]

Its not expensive..its amongst the cheapest to own. Why ? Its so easy to sell when you change it.

[@maxflight777]

Thats a really bad idea.. over time, stresses will fuck up the sidestand.

[@maxkunzke8995]

@@maxflight777 that can potentially happen, over a long time I guess. But the good news is that the GS, like so many other bikes, does have a center stand, so there are two options to choose from. I am sure that it can take that kind of abuse for many years… providing that one knows how to get the bike off the center stand while already being on it.

[@MrRodwatson]

@@maxflight777 side stands are cheap Max.

[@christopherbarden4913]

Did not know how to use quick shift correctly so I wasn’t using it. I’m old school and still use the clutch. When I purchased it dealer did not give me much information. Basically “read the manual” and watch videos works. Bike is excellent. Like that it was the end of model. Bugs worked out

[@ardwg_]

5'6"? No way, it's me LOL. What is your inseam? _sorry if actually I missed that part in the video_

[@MicahPotts]

No worries! I'm 30" inseam. Don't hesitate to ask anything else!

[@AndyGSATractor]

Nice review mate i to have done a review on my lower GSA im only 5ft8 and the lowered version is the way to go ..just subbed you to

[@mattingray5651]

It is nice to see BMW make a short version for 75% of the population (only 25% are 6ft). However, I wish if they do that on a smaller/mid size cc bike instead. I have 30-inch inseam, 150lbs, this bike is too heavy for me.

[@MicahPotts]

I agree! This thing is actually easier to hop on than their 'smaller' bikes!

[@dubbeljubobby]

Congratulations on your new bike Micah. I might be biased but I think you made a great choice. 😁 I really like to hear others perspectives and opinions on their bikes. I believe every bike offers a different ride and gives different value to their owners. That being said, the GS/GSA at 20-30k is one of the higher priced Adv bikes on the market and 1st & 2nd services will run you about $900-$1,000 dollars. It will also keep it’s asset value higher than any other bike in the market. Compare that to say one of the lowest priced Adv bike on the market, the Royal Endfield Himalayan at about 8-10k. This bikes 1st & 2nd services will run you approximately $1,300-$1,400 while it’s value considerably drops in a faster % rate. Also, as you pointed out purchasing premium parts for a premium motorcycle can be costly, but I guess you get what you pay for, right? You mentioned bags, BMW has a few to choose from, but because of this bikes popularity there is a plethora of aftermarket bags available too. Can’t wait to see what you end up with and what you think of them. Now for my favorite question; What’s you favorite road you’ve taken the bike on so far, and why? And what is your “dream” road you can’t wait to take your GS on? Thanks for sharing, be well and ride safe my friend. 🤙🏼

[@MicahPotts]

Sorry about the VERY late response but I wanted you to know that I appreciate your thoughtful comment. I know have over 33,000 miles on this thing! I'm lucky to live in the Bay Area, California where I'm surrounded by amazing roads everywhere! I love highway 1 up north and highway 35 South of SF and all the roads around the popular, Alice's Restaurant! My dream is to take it everywhere! All over the world! Maybe someday. I found an extra-tall windshield too, making longer drives much, much more bearable! Hope you're well! Cheers! 😊

[@kramer2965]

Great review! I keep hearing the Low Suspension models have a harsh ride compared with standard suspension. What do you think?

[@MicahPotts]

I haven't ridden the regular suspension model nearly as much, but in road mode the suspension is pretty soft and supple to me!

[@kramer2965]

Thank you for your insights!

[@playmay35]

Since when 5foot6 is short?

[@martinfitzsimons9539]

Hello from the Republic of Ireland. As a 5'3" man, I feel your pain with the short legs. I'd like to suggest you try a Yamaha MT-09 or a Ducati Diavel as your next bike, although the Ducati might stretch your funds to the limit. Good luck with the GS and stay safe on the road. Martin

[@rivencsky]

Is that with the low seat or standard seat?

[@MicahPotts]

Low-heated seat

[@Resort_Fans]

Amazing review!

[@MicahPotts]

Thank you so much! I'm over 30,000 miles now so I think it's time for another one! 🏍️💨

[@godafatheradventure7516]

nice ride bro, one of the best Adventure Bike, ride safe

[@karenalexandre9778]

Thanks for this review! Im 5'2" with a 28" inseam and will be riding one in a few weeks. Looks totally doable!

[@MicahPotts]

Congratulations you're gonna love it! 😊

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Awesome bike buddy! I went with a Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer which I think is an awesome bike but a part of me wishes I would of gave BMW more of a look.

[@johnarvinclavecillas1971]

I'm 140 pounds 5ft 4 on a good day, love my 1250gsa, taking it on the gnarliest BDR just fine. A little wide for the single track but it's the SUV of motorcycles for sure.

[@MrJhuber]

Baddy is GS confortable for ride it? I’m 5,5”

[@johnarvinclavecillas1971]

@jhuber cristian vásquez irigoín the main thing is you have to be comfortable on the bike to ride it well and you have to ride it well to get comfortable on it. It may not race the enduros on the single tracks, but it will finish the ride.

[@kevinnguyen6456]

What bar riser do you have ?

[@MicahPotts]

Just cheap $65 ones off Amazon. They work great and super easy to install! 😊

[@MicahPotts]

For BMW R1200GS LC 2013-2019 , R... www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYC1GDL?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

[@binobuenas321]

Thanks for the great review buddy. I owned the little brother of yours, F850 GSA, and do agree with you about being expensive in service,parts and accessories. However, those were gone once you sat on the bike. The feeling is somewhat different especially when you're driving it on the street where everyone is looking at your bike. Superb!

[@MH-rj1kg]

Great review! BMW is crazy expensive but the way you talked about this bike has me considering it!

[@juefie3621]

How do you rank with your toes? I'm only 170cm tall myself ;-). Greetings from. Germany 🇩🇪 (Sorry, Translation from Google)

[@MicahPotts]

I'm 167cm, so you should have no problems! But remember, this is with the 'low' suspension model

[@OntarioAndrews415]

[ Like ] :)

[@ShineBright__]

I think the only downside of her is everything you buy ( OEM ) accessories and services are unreal expensive....

[@MicahPotts]

You aren't kidding! $$$

[@danojason333]

Congratulations Micah!! 🔥👍🏼

[@austinmatthews347]

I toyed with gs vs xr and in april i bought xr from chester motorrad in uk. Found it top heavy also nowhere to put feet down cos of pegs etc found fully liaded 2 up struggled to pull away uphill stalled many times. Noisy engine. Got it £2500 discounted due it being ex display bike. Decided 3 weeks ago to ask trade in price xr has 3.5k miles on it and dealer in rotherham offered £400 less than i paid in april against a r1250gs adventure te rallye so i ordered it and instead of 7 weeks he said one is pre ordered so its mine this saturday i test rode there demo bike 3 weeks ago and i agree with you best bike of all time hands down . Also 600 service is £100

[@AJG76]

I had similar near London. GS is more useful for UK roads I think, XR more too heavy and you’re breaking the speed limit instantly 😂

[@nicolaantrilli-bi6tv]

Thank you for that info. It was so clear, especially compared to a couple others I viewed first. It allowed me to ride for the first time in weeks on my bike safely even though it is raining.

[@MicahPotts]

Really glad I helped! I'm usually unsatisfied with others as well so I wanted to be extra detailed!

[@xcaliber7779]

I actually love the way my GS pops/bucks when doing a quick shift from 1st to 2nd. You really feel the torque when it jumps forward. Great bike!

[@MicahPotts]

It sure is! Thank you! 😁

[@choice9572]

Good review, info that really helps. Enjoy your ride, safe riding.

[@MicahPotts]

Thank you! 😊

[@rudypou1277]

Great review. I’m 5’8” and you made me feel good about going and test driving one of these bikes. They do say the adventure is 2” taller. It’s a GS for me.

[@MicahPotts]

Thanks! I'm happy to have helped and good luck on your journey. 😊

[@russellaird1858]

Thanks for the really good review 👍 Russ

[@MicahPotts]

Thank you! 😊

[@cinageransayeh]

Just wanna say thanks from another Short Guy

[@MicahPotts]

Happy to do my part! 😁

[@EDP1]

congrats . i would do same mods as you .

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

EDP I wish there was more mods for my 23 Tiger 1200. I really want an exhaust.

[@yaz5627]

😂😂 this cracked me up man sick bike!!!

[@MicahPotts]

Thank you! 😆

[@mick0601]

Great video! Thanks. I have the same height. I wonder if you tried to sit on the standard suspension GS at dealer shop and if that worked for you?

[@MicahPotts]

For me it was way too tall. The standard model is a full 2-3 inches taller and the Adventure another inch on top of that! I barely make it on the low suspension model, so that's what I recommend for short people. No real downsides outside of lean angle which for me is not a problem at all

[@mick0601]

@@MicahPotts Thanks. What about replace a low seat and use ESA to set preload to min? will that lower a standard one with 2 inches?

[@MicahPotts]

@@mick0601 you might get an inch max. I have the low seat on mine and am comfortable on automatic setting, sometimes put it in minimum though, I'd say the suspension settings changes it maybe a half inch

[@MRGS48]

I have the 2019 and absolutely love it! Actually mine is the Low Suspension. Try playing with the suspension as is and you’ll see that it actually lowers a little bit😉😉 Great choice for 3/yrs warranty and 36000 miles including road assistance!! Well done brother. I Am subbing too. PS got links to the headlight protector and the other “non bmw” alternatives? Ohh the bar risers: Did you have to changes lines or not?? Thanks again

[@MicahPotts]

This is the low suspension and I usually keep it on low, but occasionally put it in Auto with no issues. Here are links to the accessories: Headlight protector: www.ebay.com/itm/115465183438?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=WmvrqMAnTtG&sssrc=2349624&ssuid=zHKtm3QoT56&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=SMS Handguards: www.ebay.com/itm/334232060214?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=1gVsMYRiSbm&sssrc=2349624&ssuid=zHKtm3QoT56&var=543234639951&widget_ver=artemis&media=SMS Bar Risers: For BMW R1200GS LC 2013-2018 R... www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYCYMYC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share No changes of wires needed. 😊

[@MRGS48]

@@MicahPotts thanks brother🤘

[@jonathancordero9719]

Did you ever test the new tiger 1200 before purchasing the gs? Or you just knew that you wanted the gs? I’m in the market for one of them. Still haven’t ridden the gs yet. Really liked the tiger

[@MicahPotts]

Actually no, I did not test the Tiger, that may be it's closest competitor but have not ridden it to compare directly

[@welfordxxx]

You can’t beat a shaft drive though

[@tractortoys9914]

I just test rode a 2023 Tiger 1200 rally explorer. Beautiful bike. I like it more than the GSA I think...bmw screen and menu is nicer with more options on what you see. Tiger quick shifter is much better. Power seems about the same to me.

[@navindranv]

Bro I have been wanting to own this bike for more than 8 years.. currently owning Honda CB500X.. hopefully can buy one by next year

[@MicahPotts]

Almost there!

[@navindranv]

@@MicahPotts thank you so much brother

[@StanForAdventure]

Nice piece of content....S.F.A.

[@MicahPotts]

Thank you! 😁

[@loganmason0201]

Seems like you have lots of energy like Blippi 😅👍 Thanks for the vid

[@aidychad4140]

hi. where did u get the set of bar risers?

[@MicahPotts]

Found them on Amazon, only about $65!

[@Ma6roshi23]

Gumball sticker fades fast

[@MicahPotts]

It sure does. 😩

[@asmith8092]

Luv my 2020 GS....Yes it is expensive to maintain......but you got the best! If you mainly ride in the city, that is an interesting choice of motorcycle. I think it is a beautiful functional bike because it won't break your legs if it falls over, you can easily do rear tire hole repair, it is balanced, rides crazy smooth and list goes on and on.....total utility bike with sporty feel. AND IT LOOKS VERY STEAMPUNKISH!!

[@brents1643]

I step on the peg first to get on. Super easy. No need to try and throw your leg over from ground

[@MicahPotts]

I've been told by the BMW dealer that that is NOT good for the kickstand as it's only being held on by a few bolts.

[@brents1643]

I've not heard that. That bike weighs 550 lbs. If that kickstand is that crappy then we gotta problem. Lol

[@austinmatthews347]

I jave the adventure and i get on by steping on my left foitpeg with left foot then standing up and swing leg over much easier also when solo i ride with suspension on min

[@graffigdesign8977]

Thank you so much for the review Micah - I'm just considering getting this bike, however, despite being 5'11" I only have an inseam of 29-30". would you mind sharing what your inseam, as to test the bike out I need to travel quite far from home and don't fancy a wasted journey - thnaks again

[@MicahPotts]

My inseam is 30". Good luck!

[@graffigdesign8977]

@@MicahPotts Ah perfect! Thanks for letting me know Micah - have a great weekend when it comes.

[@MicahPotts]

@@graffigdesign8977 thank you you too!

[@mikemerrill175]

I’ve ridden for nearly 60 years with a 30” inseam & am riding a standard GS just fine.

[@graffigdesign8977]

@@mikemerrill175 Fantastic Mike - many thanks for confirming 👍

[@dougbushong979]

What brand are your bar risers.

[@MicahPotts]

Got a generic brand on Amazon. They fit perfectly, didn't have to make any adjustments with the wires

[@thesaurusrex7919]

Damn! It’s equally as expenses to own a bmw motorcycle too !

[@zorroad]

Nice review. Thanks man. I have the exact height as you and wanna buy one. Just one worry. Have you tried it off road? Since it is lowered, I thought that would be issue on dirt.

[@MicahPotts]

I'm sorry I haven't but I've heard from many others it doesn't make any difference

[@zorroad]

@@MicahPotts Thanks man. You are the best 🙂

[@MicahPotts]

@@zorroad happy to help 😊

[@Denis-gk8dj]

is this the low suspension version of the motorbike? and you said that this is the automatic height, so if you lower it to the lowest will you be able to flat feet?

[@MicahPotts]

Yes, it is the low suspension model with the low seat, if I lower it all the way, I can just barely flat foot it at 5ft6 and a 30 in inseam

[@Denis-gk8dj]

@@MicahPotts okay thanks

[@MicahPotts]

​@@Denis-gk8djno problem

[@boydrc]

Got the same bike in August and its fantastic... i amd 1 inch tallerthan you and have no issues with the bike at all

[@odinnsbane1338]

I wrecked my harley back in November and just got it back. Don't really have the confidence in it as I did before. Really been looking into these. Thank you for this awesome review, helped me out

[@mullman]

Good review. Ordered my 22 in December and picked up April 8th and 10k miles ago. It’s an amazing machine.

[@YAOZYVIDEO]

I am 5’6” too. I want to buy this model with low suspension. Too bad LED headlamp is not available. $20k+ bike with halogen headlamp is a joke in this day.

[@MicahPotts]

Yeah I've heard the 2023s won't have it due to the conflict in Ukraine. The 2022 and below DO have the LEDs

[@thedevmachine]

grats. hoping to get one also.

[@SamuelBSR]

How many years of riding experience you had when you bought this bike?

[@MicahPotts]

11 years

[@naz2774]

Are you Mclovin from Superbad? Nice bike btw

[@MicahPotts]

Lol yeah I get that all the time, even carry the 'McLovin' ID in my wallet. Cheers!

[@augustbrante8117]

I'm 5'10" and have been wondering if tis is just to big to get my feet down at intersections! Thanks !

[@MicahPotts]

Happy to have helped!

[@DonaldLL825]

I'm 5'6 w 30" inseam so this is something that is very relevant for me so Thank OU! Hat is the sat height in the current setup? Is that low suspension AND a low seat?

[@MicahPotts]

Yes exactly. Low suspension and low seat. Very doable height. Good luck!

[@traitorhatergetarope3163]

Sweet bike. Good video.👍

[@chrismcallister2]

Great initial review. As the owner of a 2022 R125 GSA I agree with your assessment, really enjoying the bike. FYI, the first service here in Tucson AZ was $303, so definitely location/dealer dependent. I use a Givi Outback 42 L tope case and really like it, run about $400.

[@MandrilSolo]

Love the video Micah.. I am 5.8 I’ll be going with that set up and riser. Great video ! First bike for you ?

[@MicahPotts]

Probably 20th bike. NOBODY should have this monster 1250 as their first bike!

[@Sim0es]

No one knows that unit of measurement. Give us centimeters.

[@MicahPotts]

167.64 centimeters 😜

[@Centauri-bw1kg]

Is your bike set on the lowest suspension setting and lowest seat height?

[@MicahPotts]

Yes

[@baconator4555]

is the dynamic esa set to minimum?

[@MicahPotts]

Sometimes it is. I keep it on regular most of the time. I'd say it MAYBE makes a half-inch difference

[@baconator4555]

​@@MicahPotts in the video 5:36, is the dynamic esa set to minimum?

[@MicahPotts]

@@baconator4555 I believe it was minimum. Honestly, it's about a half inch difference, you can barely tell the difference

[@garywinkworth3380]

nice bike mate

[@mike8748]

I bought 2022 1250 gs standard and so far so good since I am new to motorcycle, I did ride Harley's new softail on highway few times and the Harley seemed more stable on highway, I would imagine the full sized Harley would be even more stable. Maybe it is hard to compensate for weight that Harley has.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Congrats on your new bike Mike! Ride safe. Cheers 🍻

[@muhamedtoromanovic6188]

Are you a new rider in general or only new to the GS? I am a new rider and started with the GS but I am very happy so far, however, I dropped mine on the first day but luckily no damage :) Ride safe!

[@MicahPotts]

Been riding for 11 years. I don't think this is an appropriate bike for a new rider. Too big and powerful

[@muhamedtoromanovic6188]

@@MicahPotts It is indeed big, but the point about too powerfull depends on your personality and how much you are willing to risk. I am 45 years old and I enjoy slow and easy riding, more like a sight-seeing tour. And the bike measures the lean angle for the ABS and the Traction Controll and many other features that can make your ride a lot safer which old bikes do not have. So all in all I think it still is not too bad for a beginner, at least there are some valid arguments for my point of view.

[@Loiczzr]

You could be 5"6 with 32 inseam and 6 feet tall with 28" inseam

[@MicahPotts]

You are right. To be fair I'm 5'6 with 30 inch inseam

[@Loiczzr]

@@MicahPotts thank you, it does help a lot !!!

[@briankuehn8048]

Micah, where did you get your bar risers? I have the same problem with the reach. Great video!

[@MicahPotts]

Got them on Amazon just under $80. They're great! amzn.to/3Xqg5kF

[@briankuehn8048]

@@MicahPotts thank you. I have the same bike and love it.

[@richardkeeley6927]

Hi there. Great video. So, if I understood right, the bike has the std suspension and seat?

[@MicahPotts]

No. This bike has the LOW suspension and LOW seat

[@richardkeeley6927]

@@MicahPotts thank you.

[@dwwphoto]

Good summary of an incredible motorcycle. I have a ‘21 R1250GSA. It is the perfect bike. You might want to also try the cowboy mount to climb on. Less energy needed and easier on the knee joint.

[@MicahPotts]

I was told by the dealership NEVER to do that as the kickstand with all the weight on it is only being held by a couple of bolts. I'm usually parked on a hill anyway, making it sitting up straight afterwards pretty much impossible

[@malusadv]

Do you have central stand?

[@MicahPotts]

Yes, it's included with all GSs

[@Nomad-Drifter]

So u can’t adjust the shifter not the rear brake pedal… see ya!

[@MicahPotts]

Well the shifter WAS adjusted And I personally did the rear brake so you may need to get a second opinion!

[@JoeS97756]

@@MicahPotts Be careful adjusting the rear brake pedal, you don't want to be activating the brake 100% of the time.

[@davidkitching6154]

Thank you for a nice honest review, I am a similar height and considering purchasing one. Just wondering where did you get your bar risers from?

[@MicahPotts]

Amazon! They push up and towards me. They're great and were just under $80. amzn.to/3Xqg5kF

[@davidkitching6154]

@@MicahPotts thank you for the information.

[@MicahPotts]

@@davidkitching6154 amzn.to/3Xqg5kF

[@shreyasdubas2369]

Ur height

[@MicahPotts]

5ft 6in

[@shreyasdubas2369]

@@MicahPotts what's the seat height

[@MicahPotts]

@@shreyasdubas2369 I think it's 31 inches

[@JoeS97756]

I thought the left cylinder tick was fixed with the 2022 model. It's a fairly easy fix with a different length camshaft tensioner I think it is.

[@MicahPotts]

Not sure as it's definitely still doing it on my late model '22. I definitely plan on bringing it up at my next service though!

[@JoeS97756]

@@MicahPotts Here's the video I saw about it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXiXg2aBe9CIjNU. I love the colors of this bike..it's the rallye model, right? Does that also come with the sport suspension option?

[@MicahPotts]

@@JoeS97756 very helpful! Thank you!

[@jamesthreader2270]

best bike ever made. i have 2015 1200GS and i can't wait to upgrade to the 1250GS.

[@welfordxxx]

Interesting vid, but you really need a body microphone for when you are not next to the camera. It is difficult to hear with sound volume changing so much.

[@MicahPotts]

You're right, this is really my first REAL video trying this all out. I'm confident the videos will only get better and better. 😊

[@welfordxxx]

@@MicahPotts good luck to you. It’s a busy subject so you need to be as good as you can. Look at Itchyboots for inspiration