6,000 km On A BMW - Still In Love?

Doin' time on the 900XR is an absolute joy, it's easy, simple, intuitive and allows me to focus on the ride and not the bike. With that said, in this video I get into the "nitpicks" and the things that bother me the most and may also bother you over time.
Thank you Motorsport Burgdorf: www.motorsport... for making me "an offer I can't refuse" on this bike.
Location: Colle Valcavera, Sambuco, Province of Cuneo, Italy (2700m above sea level)
Note: If you see any factual errors in my videos, please feel free to politely let me know in the comments. For any questions/enquiries please send an e-mail to [e-mail], I'm not on any other social media platforms.

[@rideanddive]

Great review... Thanks a lot. Getting my F900XR in 10 days, can't wait!

[@jonnybegood4848]

I LOVE the outdoor settings you do on your reviews. I miss the Northern territories when seeing these videos. You're articulate, thoughtful & soft spoken which is delightful as well.

[@jeffreyscott4564]

Your observation and opinion on the quick shifter is spot on. I've had it on 3 BMW's and it's one of those things,, Glad I have it when I want it, but I definitely don't use it every shift. It's just not refined enough. Great review!

[@leonesterhazy8355]

all my BMWs have done that.. and its not just BMW quick shifter.. happened on KTM.. and Yamaha if you are on high revs.. then perfect.. normal riding.. sometimes happens

[@bwkern3]

I had the same issue with my quickest shift on my RT. But the issue is only because it’s not being used when it should be. The shift Assist pro is designed to be used under extreme acceleration and extreme deceleration it’s a performance feature. It even tells you that in the owners manual. From my experience if you use it with mid RPM or lower RPM it’s really clunky and it does what is being reported. Next use it under full throttle and stay on the throttle then hit the shifter Higher in the rev range and it’s smooth as butter.

[@ray8328]

@@bwkern3 , I have it in my F850GS and agree 100% with your comments.

[@czechbeer7714]

The quickshifter on BMW XR 900 or R1250GS needs to be more direct and fast when you are shifting gears (not gently and slowly). If you are shifting up, then only under throttle, if you are shifting down, then absolutelly without throttle. Then it works good...

[@manfredhettenkofer282]

I own a F900 XR and did not use the quick shifter much because it felt hard to engage the gear changes. After a while, I start using it again and it got better with time. Now I have 16.000km on it and use it more often than shifting with a clutch. I would get this feature anytime again on this bike. The increase in fun having it is tremendous. I also encountered faulty upshifts, however, I contributed it to my too-soft or unprecise shifting attempts. Interesting to attribute it to a software glitch as the gear is not shifted via a program, just the power cut-out is.

[@mvigue8693]

I just put a Pirelli Angel GT 2 on the rear of my Triumph Speed Twin. Wet and dry grip are both excellent, and it doesn’t feel much different than the stock Rosso 3. I still have the stock Rosso 3 up front, but they seem to play nice together, no weird shimmies or issues. I only have about 500 miles on the rear so I can’t speak to tread life, but so far so good.

[@andrewedmond7738]

I replaced the Angel GT on the front of my GSX 1400 with the new GT 2 and it is just perfect. Will replace the rear with the GT 2 when it's time. Great tyre for all conditions.

[@pistolpete6321]

Incredible scenery, can’t wait for more videos this fall! I’d recommend Pirelli Angel GT 2’s, good wet and dry grip and decent longevity.

[@06szymonszymanski]

Completely agree. Pirelli Angel GT 2 is amazing.

[@christianknapp4475]

Fully agree with PistolPete - Pirelli Angel GT 2 in front and GT2A in the back - I usually get 10-12k kms with a heavier bike

[@terryallen3550]

Never have I thought that your videos are too long. This is a subscriber that votes you as the best mootorcycle reviewer I've ever witnessed. Two thumbs way way up. You may not have noticed I paused for a second there to think, and yes I did think you are number one in the three pillars of motorcycle opinions and then some. God bless you Scott and your beautiful family. :-) ride safe, and ride like there's nothing to prove, truce :-)

[@SoDakTwisties]

I'm happy with the Road 5s. I had them on my Yamaha Super Tenere, and I wasn't any less satisfied than with the previous Pilot Road 4 tires. I'll be putting the Road 5 tires on my Yamaha FJ-09 when the PR4's have worn, and once the OEM Pirelli Scorpion Trail II's burn off on my new KTM 1290 SAS, I'll be going Road 5 on it as well.

[@dorusduchateau9559]

Changed after 9.500km my worn out Michelin for a set of new Pirelli Angel GT2’s on my 900xr in gold. More stability on higher speeds (also with the original panniers) and more feedback in cornering. Quicker steering and neutral behavior by braking in corners. Did 2.500 with them now. Absolutely improved the Bike!

[@NothingToProve]

You got 9.5k out of yours, that is great mileage! Thank you for the real world feed back with the tires. I'm Tallying up the votes and so far the GT & Roadtec 01 are fighting for first place. But I am leaning towards the GT because I had the GT on my 1290SDR and it was not the best for grip (it's a super naked of course not) but it was a good compromise for getting some mileage out of them and still having some performance and if I can get 6,000 km out of them on this bike, I'd be happy with that. On the SDR I only got 4.5k but that eats rear tires...torque monster. 😒😁

[@TR5T]

I discovered the F series with the 800R and ST. Having ridden 57 years and owned 60+ bikes sll the way back to the British twins and singles I find these BMWs are gems. I do not want to ride one of these because I will be juggling my bank accounts with my retirement income to get one. Beautiful bike, fantastic region to ride!!!

[@spetersonmusic]

Wow - that's how you do an owner review. Seriously, I learned a ton from this.

[@NothingToProve]

Thanks Scott, This is prime time riding season there in Michigan now! How's the weather there? Here it's barely hitting 80° for a high each day and not so nice wind/rain about 4 days a week 😒

[@spetersonmusic]

@@NothingToProve It's been crazy good the last 2-3 weeks, hot in the '90's (F) and no rain but for once here and there. I cannot complain!!! Keep riding!!

[@markellott5620]

I finally got mine. Only put 400 miles on it so far, but what a delight. Tyres - mine came equipped with Bridgestone Battlaxes. I'll be swapping them out for Michelin Street 5s as soon as one of them wears. I'm a little disappointed that they weren't fitted as standard. Seat - yes, it's firm, but spending all day in the saddle, I prefer a firm seat. I spent all day last Sunday on the bike and felt fine. No complaints on that score. Quickshifter - they seem to have improved over the one fitted to my RT, but still a bit clunky if you don't rev it enough. However, I find it comparable with the Tracer, which only up-shifts. Generally, I change gear manually anyway.

[@nemesisabaddon5628]

Great review Scott, thanks... Pirelli Angel GT2's, really much sportier than their predecessors (Angel GT's that you had on your 1290SDR), excellent grip in the wet, dirty bumpy roads and more mileage also... To be honest, I don't see the difference with Diablo Rosso 3's on dynamic twistie road ride... Ride Safe. V

[@stanparton1735]

Came from an rt...then gsa....now 900fxr....and loving it👍

[@alachaniotis]

1200RT, then 1200GSA? I would love your comparison between the 2

[@danieljanecek7637]

Yes, original seat is like a piece of wood, I'm waiting for comfort version. However I love the machine:-) Thanks for our great reviews!

[@NothingToProve]

I just got the comfort seat yesterday, it's wider, softer and higher(more padding I guess). Just rode it home from the dealer but first impressions of it is good, improvements were greatly needed.

[@danieljanecek7637]

@@NothingToProve Yes, it's much better compare to the original one. Thanks!

[@dennism1919]

Hey Scott. A true test is what you gave this bike. Man, what a journey. I know what you mean about not having to think about the bike, especially when you are out in more isolated territory and going hard! It's great to have that confidence in your kit. This bike has proven that it is up to the task. It will be most interesting to see what hijinks you decide to get into next! As for tires... For what it's worth I ride the Angel GTs. I have ridden both the GTs and the GT II's and personally I like the GTs better. GT front and GT II rear might be the ticket! I have also ridden Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interacts as well. Great tires, really grippy and have great feel (high Silica content). But when they go they go quickly! They may not deliver the same range as some of the others but I love how they feel. Cheers!

[@Thorsten_Kueppers]

Great insights into this bike! I can highly recommend the Continental Road Attack 3 for your bike. Many riders, including me, consider these as the best choice for sporttouring. I have them in "GT-spec." on my big old heavy FJR and they do a fantastic job! The grip is excellent an the handling feels, like the bike has lost 30 kg of weight at the front :-D

[@deminerm1041]

Please review the new Tracer 900 GT. Thank You in advance. Nice update by the way.

[@stephenchapman8344]

Great honest review Scott. Looking forward to the mini series in October. Metzeler roadtec 01 se are great sports tourers.👍

[@johnrocker2986]

Quick shifter will give the best when the chain is clean and well lubed otherwise it is very agriculutural. Wunderlich seat cures butt burn! Great and accurate review.

[@simonlutt9849]

I clearly like to recommend the Conti Road Attack 3. Almost instant grip from day one and it holds up like forever! Only downside of this tires is a little shimmy on some bikes, but not in every one! Sadly I had this effect on mine, but it didn't bother me. Especially when you consider the performance this tire delivers.

[@andrewedmond7738]

Thank you so much for your honest review Scott. A little small for me personally, but seriosly interested in big brother version. Great video brother. Tyres to use? Pirelli Angel GT 2. Perfect for all road and weather conbditions. Take care.

[@bh_357]

My selection criteria for my tyres: fast heating time, dry and wet performance, consistent performance despite wear. My personal choices: THE START AND FORGET : Continental Trail Attack 3, THE START AND DRIVE HARD : Metzeler M7RR / M9RR. My opinion on the Michelin ROAD 5: very good, but are not constant against wear. At 50% they are no longer as effective. But it would be necessary to make a comparative between road 5@50% VS the competition. Opinion on the Bridgestone Battlax T41 : wear is not uniform (rear in the middle and front on the sides), unlike Attack 3 and MxRR . I have heard good feedbacks from Angel GT2. Don’t even think about any tyres from the Michelin Anakee series 🤢. Opinion based primarily on my experience on a Vstrom 650, 1200GS and a heavy 1200GSA with a heavy guy upon her. F900XR and the rider are undoubtedly lighter so the wearing and feeling may differ. Otherwise very good reviews, new subscriber from the southern France, thinking of a transition to a F900XR next year✌️

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

The 170mm of travel front and rear is actually VERY good for a sports tourer , as a comparison the Suzuki VStrom 650 only has 160mm front and rear ( and it’s an ADV bike ) but let down by 17inch rims - essentially front . Tyre are and easy fix . And weight is pretty good to.

[@clausbrager2748]

Hey Scott - Dankeschön für Deine ausführlichen und detaillierten Berichte. 👍👌 Ich habe mich jetzt für die S 1000 XR gekauft - trotzdem ist die F 900 XR ein tolles Moped. Vielen Dank und Grüße aus Hannover 👋

[@felipecadavid3200]

Hey Scott, thank you for such a great review. I should get Continental Road Attack 3, awesome tires, great grip.

[@marcelisujecki4707]

I have the BMW 850 adventure and my opinion on the quick shifter (I call semi automatic shifter) is that to work great I need to back off the throttle just for a second to change smoothly, just like when you using the clutch! Works like a dream up shifting and ok on down shifts! This is my first bike with this system so I cannot compare with another bikes but if I buy another bike is a must to have again because it is awesome! I have on my bike on the stock Windshield a spoiler extension that is adjustable! It is cheap and do a great job to create a nice air flow above the helmet! Nice review! Cheers!

[@guido_laremi]

the way you said"buongiorno" to the hikers ahahah (I'm italian). It does seem a nice bike.. I'm considering it

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Mate iv ridden lots of sports touring bikes ( from Australia 🇦🇺) used all the Michelin Pilot & Road 5 series. They are VERY sticky but believe they have reduced there wear life from the 4,s . Also the front sculps out bad . My recommendation is the Dunlop Roadsmart 3 or 4 ( the rear isn’t quite as sticky as the Road 5 , but I use the Metzler Roadtec 01 rear and Roadsmart front ( perfect combo in grip ) the front will outlast 2 rears but doesn’t sculp .

[@jeman022004]

Nice review! I am new to on-road two wheel riding and plan to get into sport touring as my experience grows. I started with an MT07 but just switched to the Duke 790. Your Duke 790 review helped my decision! Look forward to the updates on your BMW experience.

[@tonibeitlich9948]

Danke für den ehrlichen und aussagefähigen Test 👍

[@pacanduc]

I bought my F900XR without the quick shifter because I didn't like it when I first tried the bike. I am not sure I regret it. All the rest is overall pretty good and I am really enjoying the bike! Thanks for the video.

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, the QS is kind of a luxury item, especially this one because it only works well under certain conditions. So you won't miss it. Most of the time I shift using the clutch simply because I want a smooth shift and I don't get that using the QS :( Thanks for the feed back and ride safe, Scott

[@pacanduc]

@@NothingToProve I forgot to mention you are completely right about the seat. Too hard!

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, I just got the comfort seat right after this video and it is softer but I think it could be a little more soft but it's close enough.

[@StromerYoutube]

I would suggest you try the Conti Trail Attack 3. Yea it's a "Adventure" Tire, but performance wise I can scrape the footpegs on my DL650 all day long and they have a very good "wear behavior"(keine Kantenbildung). So far I've got about 3k km on this tires and I think another 5k km are easy doable! Where do I ride? Mostly twisty roads in the "Mühlviertel" in Upper Austria, or the alps 70km away. Greetings from Austria!

[@stonesie81]

I had the Road Attack 3 on my SuperDuke GT and they handled the torque of that 1290 engine with no complaints in all weathers, I loved them. They would be a better bet for the F900XR as it uses a 17" front wheel so doesn't need trail tyres.

[@stevesanelli90]

Great review of your bike Scott! Loved seeing those beautiful alpine roads you have on your doorstep! We’re back in lockdown again, so riding anywhere is out of the question! Lucky you! With respect to tyres, either Michelin or Pirelli GT tyres. Incredible to see 224km/h on your autobahn. Again, we’d be arrested & bike impounded & or crushed

[@tomassmatlava7164]

Great review like always Scott. Enjoy your bike nothing in this world Is perfect,,

[@luckylarrikin1439]

Sounds like a great holiday. I'd love to see you compare the F900XR to a KTM 890.

[@joseluisruiz8526]

A great, comprehensive and honest review, thank you very much. The “off-tarmac” part was funny and, except cruisers of course, every bike has a degree of off-tarmac capability…we were doing the same thing 40 years ago (with a Yam XJ-600 BTW)…it’s a matter of adjusting the speed and assuming you were going to hit some rocks anyway ;-). Regarding your new set of tyres, you may try Dunlop Sportsmart MK3. Great on-road sporty performance with convenient mileage.

[@joaosenagoulao]

Hi Scott. I´m really happy with my Dunlop qualifier II, double compound with good grip and satisfactory wear. Good video, lots of info. Keep up with the good work.

[@NiclasDr95]

Many thanks for your reviews, Scott! I really like the videos and especially the way you convey your experience on the 900XR! I also got one and after roughly 3.500km I can only share your opinion on the bike and its features - even though I’m not yet that experienced in riding ;-) Keep it up and thanks! Schönen Gruss aus Hamburg

[@SuperGinkgo]

Hi Scott Great review! I look forward to your Alps trip getting posted though I would love it if you made them 20/30 mins (or more) as opposed to 15 mins, the Alps are premium eye candy, you are an easy host to watch and I prefer long form for "roadtrip" videos. I understand though if the algorythm/viewing stats say keep 'em short, I will watch 'em all anyway! All best from North Yorks UK. 🖖🏍😊

[@jaimeriveras]

I ride a 1250 GS. Yes, the quick shifter is tricky and often clunky. Best way I have found to be consistent on the up shifts is to be quite decisive with my right foot. Downshifts, at anything other than closed throttle, are still a mystery to me

[@jaimeriveras]

I meant left foot. Sorry.

[@mikedignum1868]

Tiger 900 GT Pro is silky smooth. Much better than my GS.

[@grayjohn1906]

That's no achievement! Most bikes are smooth compared to a GS! 🤔

[@Milen4u]

My F900R arrived a few days ago. I am looking forward to many miles on it. As far as sport-touring tires, my suggestion would be Metzeler Roadtec 01.

[@SimonFishley]

Great review thanks. I am about to test ride one and make a decision on buying one. Good insights.

[@martink9270]

Great review. I have a Tracer 700 and put Pirelli MT60RS tyres on it and very happy. They seem to wear about 1mm per 1000.

[@Kevin-px7so]

Great review and keep these coming. Will you notify BMW about the quick shifter issues? Kind of a big deal and they need to fix that. Cheers!

[@NothingToProve]

False up-shifts is not unusual, they just happen more often on this than other bikes, imho.

[@luisazinheira]

Nice to read a review like this, a review of this bike makes more sense if it is made on a long trip like you did. I would like to know about rear seat comfort.

[@joseelizondo3255]

The passenger experience in this seat is very bad, it has a curve at the top, my wife complained a lot, she got stiff, I am going to make modifications,

[@roythompson2632]

My local bmw dealer says better not go with the confort seat, better and a lot cheaper to go to your local shop and for 80 euros get them to reupholster the original with a decent/gel/foam upgrade.

[@borissciaroni53]

I tried this bik for 1h and I felt the following problems: - Quick-Shift - Hard seat For the rest the bike is super!

[@thieubv1354]

Thanks for your great review, Scott, I am going to get the F900XR soon and most likely I will not pick the quick shifter option

[@NothingToProve]

Great! You will love it. I still love mine, just like I love my wife and she loves me with all our short-comings. :)

[@wiperiser1]

I've been watching your reviews of this bike and decided to take it for a test ride yesterday, slept on it and today I pulled the trigger on this bike. I'm really happy with my purchase. Thank you for your effort, and your well made videos. I hope BMW send you a gift or something, haha. Also, you remind me of Peter Gallagher in American Beauty. :D

[@brucekendall52]

Nice to get a real update on the life of the new XR.Thanks.JHB_SA.

[@smurik1]

Wow you did 227 km/h ? 😦😮😧😦😯 I did with my f900r 173 km/h and I barely kept my head straight here in Canada LOL I guess all depends the roads surfaces. I drove a Ferrari in Italy in 2003 (when still Lire was coursing instead of Euro) about 225km/h and some bikes were passing me like rockets Great video as usual Thank you 😊

[@geoffsmith1616]

Hi ntp, on your review and vlogs I test rode one yesterday.... and man it was NOT for me, the seat was rock hard, the mirrors were unusable at 60-70 because of the vibes, the rear brake was next to as useful as a chocolate tea pot , the clutch basket rattled like a Skelton in a dustbin, (until you pulled the lever in) it was however up on its toes and the mpg was good .. that’s it , I was disappointed, I am pleased you are happy with yours tho all options are obviously subjective and bikes vary.. look forward the videos coming in the fall and thanks for your constant reviews on your channel man

[@roythompson2632]

I test rode one 2 days ago and understand about rattling and vibrations. Mirrors are too small too. Seat will be going for a refoamimg immediately I get mine in a few weeks. The BMW comfort seat is extremely expensive and not much better than the original according to my BMW dealer. .

[@roythompson2632]

My Angel GTs are fantastic on my Versys 650.

[@kiwiabroad8390]

Great review thanks Scott. You’re right about ‘real men not needing enduro mode’ on their bike BTW. 😀

[@moocow2179]

I changed my oil from the recommended Castrol (R 1200gsa) to Penrite MC4ST (Aus) and found quick shift working better. Continental Trail/Road Attack, expensive but great compound

[@NothingToProve]

Hmm...interesting. Cause my QS is not getting better after 16,000 km and I have not tried those tires as of yet either, maybe on my next set 😊

[@MrJohnnynapalm7]

Good, detailed, review - thanks for sharing 👍

[@chrisk.1195]

Conti roadattack 3 and you can ride it sumo style or conti trail attack 3 nice for touring

[@battsonbikes1919]

Greeeat review, answered a few concerns i had about the bike, Ordered mine 6 weeks ago and it still hasn't come, maybe they are concentrating on making your comfort seat :) Really can't wait for it to arrive. i did order the comfort seat straight off the bat after taking one for a test drive. Those standard seats are hard as hell. Even the comfort seat seemed a little hard as it was on another bike i got to sit on, time will tell. What luggage did you strap to the bike? Guess i will have to wait and see. Looking forward to the epic Alpine footage to come. Keep up the great work Batts XXX ( dont tell the wife) haha Edit: The bike is due for delivery on Saturday, at long last. Whoo Hooo! Look out for my views on the bike soon ;)

[@vandred87yt]

Hey! Did you received the bike with the comfort seat yet? Very interested to know if it makes it good enough.

[@battsonbikes1919]

@@vandred87yt Still not arrived yet, due on the 24th of August, feels like christmas was put back a couple months. Will let you know.

[@GaryJohnWalker1]

Fascinating stuff - experience of real usage is always good to see and hear. Tyres - Metz Roadtec 01 SE - see this week's (uk) mcn, group test of the top sports-touring market. Nice if you'd confirm or counter their verdict.

[@Klebemeister1967]

I really love your reviews. Thinking about stepping down from a GSA to the XR900. Just go on like this mate.

[@alexadrossotoglou1413]

Suzuki gsa?

[@Klebemeister1967]

@@alexadrossotoglou1413 Well, no, like a different kind of bike, I realize. But: Made up my mind already. Bought a new GSA 1250!

[@vromogata3807]

When it happens it's very dangerous in my opinion...New bike trying to get the feel of things how she riders responds and then that quick shifter hiccup....yiiikes... I love my 1250 GS HP and I've been riding it here in Az and noticed that at 60+ miles per hour it gets me awesome consumption at 52mpg!!! Beautiful machines...I'm glad I didn't get a Harley as initially was the plan..hahah. Take care awaiting the series brother...Ride safe ride long... True that about us GSrs....ahhahaha

[@ronnywang218]

almost make my mind to go for the 900xr after this video, Many thanks

[@darvelbidenisapuppet7275]

Thanks for the Videos! This bike has made my short list.

[@Greggspies]

After watching you XR vid booked a test ride. After 15 mins I returned the bike thought the seating and engine wasn't my cup of tea. I'm a GSLC rider too. Each to their own suppose. Week before took the Tiger 900 rally pro and rated that much higher, great engine and ride position

[@NothingToProve]

Yea the stock seat is really hard and thin, I just got the comfort seat yesterday, just rode it home but first impressions is that it is softer and wider and higher, I'll probably do an update video once I get the hard cases & engine spoiler too & new tires too.

[@sorauman939]

I did a test ride yesterday was not impressed how engine worked on low rpms. On 1st, 2nd and 3rd gear without a throttle the engine was choking and made some strange noise. Did you experienced something like that?

[@georgilondon5877]

Great review Scott, you're honest is every each of them and i enjoy it! I just wanted to ask you does this bike has instant consume. My 11 years old F650GS does have it and when i test rided last year's S1000XR suprisingly saw that didn't. I think that it's an important feature that allows you to see consuming on real time and not only average. So i would like you to inform me if this bike and the S1000XR does have it. Thanks in advance. Cheers!

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

As for sport touring tires, honestly, they're all very good. Only suggest to stay with a known brand and avoid cheapo Chinese knockoffs. Your Michelin Road 5's are great and you can't go wrong with Pirelli Angel's. Bridgestone, Dunlop, and Metzeler are other highly regarded makers of sport touring tires. All VERY good. Go with whatever is on sale 😃

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, I call them the "big 5" of OEM tire mfg. None of them make a really bad tire, if they did, they'd be out of business. Competition is good and in this case it's good for us guys, the riders!

[@meattooth1303]

Thanks for the vid this AM. It inspired me to ride to the Blue Ridge Parkway NC/VA which is about an hour way this AM.

[@NothingToProve]

I've been up and down the Blue Ridge Parkway a few times, love it there, enjoy the ride!

[@JavierPerez-tb4zy]

Scott Nice and honest review. Congrats.

[@caseyworthington7092]

Another nice review. Thanks!

[@drive4pleasure417]

I own a F800ST. I am looking to change it by spring 2021. The F900XR is on my short list essentially because of all the reviews you’ve done about it. Thank you! For tire, I will recommend the Metzeler Roadtec 01. I used 2 sets already. They are excellent in the rain and cold temperatures (I leave in Canada). When you lean on them, the feeling is good and they grip is there. Thanks for your reviews

[@NothingToProve]

Thank you. I just had the Roadtec 01 SE put on the bike, only got about 100km on them so no real experience on them as of yet. Looking forward to trying them out. Ride safe, Scott

[@jenshashansauholmen3611]

I have the brigdestone S21 one my MT-07, really good tires both in the wet and dry conditions. They are a bit expensive but ill say there worth it, i seen some rewievs on it before i bought them and they say its a really good tire as well for sport touring use so i really recommend thoose. And keep up the good content ! :D

[@andymcclurg9524]

Just stumbled across your page and I have to commend you on an excellent review!! I currently own a 2019 Honda CB500X and I truly love the bike but am looking at maybe upgrading to a f900XR next year for a bit more grunt !! Could you possibly give a couple of locations for trip as I am hoping to organise a little trip to Europe from Ireland once this pandemic allows!! Once again great review and I will be subscribing !

[@TerraMagnus]

BMW finally reclassified the XR twins as sport bikes for 2024, and stopped describing them as adventure bikes.

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, they are a little slow sometimes but usually they come around to reality.🤣

[@paul.vanhout57]

It will be interesting to see if the quick shifter issues can be resolved with a software update. Agree with the others on the Angel GT II as a tire choice.

[@glennslatter2139]

The scenery is fantastic good job .

[@oliviermissal8739]

Great video as always, looks like a great trip too 👏🏻

[@neilashby4588]

The comfort seat is no more comfortable than a standard! I have both and wished I had saved my money.

[@alexadrossotoglou1413]

It's true!

[@beano6452]

Hello my friend. I have a similar XR to yours and I found the wind protection from the stock screen was poor at higher speeds. I fitted the MRA Touring Screen with spoiler and it’s was game changer! Also, I agree the QS is terrible.

[@NothingToProve]

Thank you! Yes, I had an MRA wind screen on my 1290SDR and was thinking about the MRA or Givi for this. Now you've given me one vote towards the MRA 👍👍

[@gpzfan5272]

NothingToProve I also have the MRA Vario on my F900XR and it makes a world of difference

[@bh_357]

@NothingToProve. I had big Harleys, GS, GSA. I am in my « downsizing time » with a VStom 650. Great bike. But lacks a bit of juice and spice. I’m looking toward the upper category with the V850TT, F900XR or the Tiger 900. I am looking for a bike : 1. with no frustration and not boring ar the legal speed in France (mostly 70 and 80 km/h) (one-bike-do-all, lots of commuting + road trips), 2. that don’t want to push-forward-by-herself. I don’t want those bikes were you have to go fast or you don’t even notice you are at a « vehicule-seizure » speed, 3. with low end torque, enjoy-able even at low speed, 4. flat footed (or so) for my 178cm. So far, the F900XR has my preference. According to your experience, what do you think about the Moto Guzzi vs BMW for my needs ?

[@NothingToProve]

Hi, I'm also in the process of downsizing, in power especially by going to the 900XR. Between the V85 & 900XR, there is no comparison, the 900XR has a lot more torque and punch than the V85. Also because of the shaft drive on the V85 and lower torque numbers at the crank, it's really not fair to the V85. The 900XR will walk away from the V85 in just about any gear and any RPM. But the V85 is a "do all" bike but the 900XR just does everything the V85 does but does it better in every way. But the V85 has one thing that the 900XR does not and that is character and has it in spades. The reason that I purchased the 900XR is because I wanted a "do all" bike and does it well and with out having to think...at all. I been on all the middleweights in the last two years and the 900XR beats them all, sure you may have one bike that is better in a certain aspect but I'm talking about over-all and the 900XR wins, hands down, no question in my mind. Take them both out for a test ride and chose the one that suits you! Good luck and ride safe, Scott

[@bh_357]

NothingToProve, thank you for your answer. I already tested the F900XR, relatively low seat and low weight, nimble and good torque / no need to overplay the gearbox. Indeed, I short-listed the Guzzi for her character and the shaft drive. But, on the paper, the performance 0-100/60-100km/h ... is on par, at most, with the vstrom. So not a big upgrade. I will testdrive her anyway, but I think the die is cast 😁. Thanks again for your help and your complete/relevant reviews ✌️

[@snap-happy]

I love the look of this bike and have spent hours watching every video review and even built my perfect online spec. All was going well until I arranged a demo... within 10mins I knew it wasn’t to be. The demo bike hadn’t been cleaned which served to highlight just how inadequate the front mudguard and rear hugger are. The muddy spray was everywhere - and was tank high! Imagine spending in the region of £12,800 on a bike that could only be used in dry weather, unless you want a look that suggests it has been dredged from a canal. An expensive riding suit and boots would also suffer. Admittedly the bike rode well and was very responsive, however, the next unexpected annoyance was the metallic engine noise which makes it sound like it is lacking oil or needing tappets set. Not good! Lastly, it was the tingling in my hands after only 10 minutes of riding. That was it...my dreams, well and truly shattered. For now, I will be keeping hold my 3yr-old NC750XA. It also has a hard seat...but has much better weather protection and carrying capacity - and definitely no tingles.

[@suppersready4you]

Nice review Scott, beautiful scenery up there in The Alps I have one suggestion: Metzeler Roadtec O1 , great st tires, great on the wet, very confident in the twisties with good life span

[@sprockoz]

Ditto on the Roadtec 01s.

[@sprockoz]

Forgot to say thanks for the good review. Like your reviews, cheers.

[@deg050607]

Have you seen the video "Why I sold my BMW F900XR ? I was set on this bike until I watched that video.That was a 2020 model.Have some of the bugs been worked out on the 2021 model and especially the engine heat issue on the 2020 model? What worries me is that I live 35 miles away from the nearest Bmw dealer and only 5 miles from a Yamaha dealer.I also like the Yamaha Tracer 900.I am currently riding a Yamaha 1982 750 Maxim I kid you not.It still runs great. Indecision is driving me nuts..........Any thoughts would be appreciated......................................

[@NothingToProve]

Well, I can only give you my personal experience with the bike. In which I have over 10,000 km on it and have had no problems with it what-so-ever. Believe me I wish I had some problems to report so that I can make a video about them. But to no avail, nothing, no oil leaks, no "heat problems", no nothing 😢 In fact I'm taking it in next week Friday for it's 11,000 km, first BIG service and I will film it and then do a 11k owners update video soon there after. Now I don't want to talk about any other guys and their experience, be it bad or good. And yes I've watched this video, that you refer to, last summer and let me just say it is a "rant" more so about the BMW dealer than the bike itself. Also he says that this bike has several "needless gadgets", one of which is cornering ABS. Now on any bike that costs over 10k, cornering ABS is pretty much standard equipment, or at least should be in this day and age. He continues to state that he has never used cornering ABS, now that is funny to me. I hope I never use it either but the one day that I need it and it's not there, then I'm in the hospital or worse yet, dead. He even makes a claim about a "serious" problem with the engine and then never explains the problem or what the problem is in fact. So this is how I come to the conclusion that this video is an emotional "rant" video and this emotion originates from his relationship with the dealership and not the bike. Sad. Also, he never states in the video as to actually how many km he put on the bike, all that is stated is that he took it in for the first service, which is anywhere between 600-1000km. So experience level on the bike is also in question. And most of his video is complaining about his experience with the BMW dealer and BMWs in general and not the bike. Also he is from the U.K. and has a heavy bias towards Triumphs and Hondas, so needless to say, sure if you want a biased view of a guy that does not like BMWs to begin with, then great video. If you want an un-biased view of this bike, go somewhere else. This is why I approach all my reviews with a Brand-less every bike is different mentality, looking at what the OEM is shooting for and what the competition is doing against the bike, regardless of brand. take care, Scott

[@deg050607]

@@NothingToProve Thank You so much for your input. May I ask you if you ride your Bmw F900 XR in really warm 80 degree weather, and if so is there any heat issues from the engine then? I'm what you might say a fair weather rider and even in Wisconsin 25 miles north of Milwaukee where I live it still gets warm here.

[@ranty13]

Great Review. I live in southern France and was in the Alpes a week before you. Incredible views!! I'm looking really closely at the 900xr, that and a Ducati 950 Multistrada. Question- Do you have the ESA suspension? Does that help some with off-road? I'm riding an older sibling of the F models, a F800ST. Yes, the Pirelli Angel GT tires are excellent. Long wearing as well. In many of the tests they have come out first. Thanks again! Ciao!

[@dpcservices]

Drove it today on a test drive, seating position too much to the front. Suspension really dives. Great bike but not for me got sour wrists after 30min. Keep up thé great work !

[@ad78]

XR is a little bit of everything. Now im leaning towards more on it Vs R

[@tonyross5799]

I think the Michelin GT tyres are more designed for heavier bikes. I have Michelin PR 4 Road tyres for my now NC 750X. I might try the PR4 Trail supposedly for ADV bikes ridden only on the road next.

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, I've heard that too but why on earth would BMW put them on the stock bike, I don't get it.

[@harryballector]

Great reviews, thank you

[@alachaniotis]

I really cannot decide which one to chose, between a '17 S1000 XR and this F900 XR.. If I would only be using it for travelling, then no discussion, S1000 XR would be my choice, but for mixed use, summer trips in Greek island and also city commuting I am thinking the 900 would be more suitable. I would love to hear your opinion.

[@ChelseaFanJosh]

Hi Scott, thanks for the really insightful video on owning this bike. I'm a relatively new biker and I'm looking to upgrade from a 200cc so that long distance trips are less strenuous than they are on my current machine. I think I've almost made up my mind on the Beemer; all that's left is a test ride! Just a small request, could you kindly advise what it's like to do two up touring on this? I can't seem to find anything on the net about this. I'm from Malaysia by the way, so hit me up if you come to do a South East Asian tour one day.

[@davidmallia628]

Not an Enduro bike, not an adventure bike. I see it as a versatile bike, just as the Kawa 650 versys, but I assume just that much better in all respects, hopefully in fun also. Can you agree having experienced both??

[@chrishart8548]

Has a slight bit more suspension than the verseys. Very similar weight. 900 has more engine 650 caries more fuel

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, what Chris said...😁 And, TFT, connectivity, BMW app, fit/finish, quality, over all ride, power and a few other things are better on the XR but you have to remember that you also pay more for the XR too.

[@chilangoson]

On my BMW r1200r went from a Metz to Road5 and love them. My next set? Staying with Michelin.

[@arnofrom9350]

Whyndomyounprefer the road 5?

[@kkarpovs95]

I'm getting tired of the jerks at idle . Because of the ignition, the engine is unstable (+- 200 rpm) and when braking, the motorcycle jerks when you close the gas. It is a pity that the review does not say a word about it.

[@NothingToProve]

This review does not say that because I don't get that on my bike. Maybe you need to have yours checked by a BMW mechanic. 👍😁

[@_Makanko_]

Nice to hear your follow-up with your new bike. Seems like an amazing trip. You intend to go abroad again this summer? Did you have a big box on the back or sides for your trip in the Alpes? How was that experience in riding? I must add that your address was still quite visible on your invoice shown at 21minutes20seconds unless of course you do not mind it being out there.

[@NothingToProve]

Na, if someone really wants to find me they can if they really try, just like I can find you too, if I really wanted to. 😁 But most of us have our own lives to live so the ones that don't I can deal with them, no problem. 😊

[@t38talontr]

awesome review, thanks!

[@The333]

Stunning riding footage! Amazing.

[@like2wheels]

Very nice 6000km review. For the tyres try the Bridgestone T31

[@TheDresdner]

The comfort seat is just as hard as the standard one, it just higher and just a bit wider. Waste of money, i returned it and will go for custom seat or wait for the one from Wunderlich.

[@NothingToProve]

Thanks for the suggestion, I just checked them out, they don't have one yet 😢 so yea, wait and wait...

[@TommezCats]

I changed from a low seat to the comfort one. And I can assure: It really was a big improve in ass friendliness! Especially on longer tours with more than 200km. Dunno how big the difference is from a standard seat, but the low one was a pretty hard thing and a pain in the ass after only 100km.

[@smtsslt7468]

The seat on the 900R fits the XR. Don’t know first hand if it would be better long distance but certainly feels that it might be. My dealer happy to fit an R seat to XR for no cost. I’d be interested to know what people think of that seat.

[@TheDresdner]

@@smtsslt7468 The foam is the same foam, very hard! what you will feel better is the seat hight which is higher on the comfort seat. There is allot of placibo effect with it. I returned it as it was just the same just higher.