Better than a GS? 2023 BMW R 1250 RS Review

[@jeffreyscott4564]

All the Boxer models in BMW's lineup has it's own personality. I've owned them all and R, RS, GSA, and now again on my 2nd RT. I enjoyed all of them.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

If I could only pick one from the boxer line up, it would be a hard choice and would be between the RS or the RT. I’ve owned them all now and am just about to replace the RS for a 1250 RT. It does everything the RS does but in more comfort. Despite its bulk it handles better than the gs range and is almost a match for the RS on the twisty bits, and better at slow speed surprisingly. Stability and balance at slow speed is better and I can flat foot it easier. The RS has been great but after some very long stints in the saddle, it just doesn’t have the same weather protection or comfort/ergos as the RT. RT is Still plenty quick enough too.

[@MickBla]

Wow! Who knew that one of the best ever RS review will come from the adventure riders community! I've got R1200rs... love it!

[@ABRmagazine]

Thank you, that means a lot.

[@dougiequick1]

BMW with the boxers remind me so much of Porsche boxers the way those German engineers have just kept developing and improving them generation after generation for so many decades

[@RF-dg4ib]

I bought the RS over the GS because...I don't ride off road; I prefer the style of the RS; it's less intimidating - lower COG, a bit lighter, easier to flat foot. Great bikes; I really like the RS.

[@ABRmagazine]

I think that's the key. For me, the GS was just as good (in some cases better) than the RS on road, but it's a big beast to handle. Plus, like you said, if you prefer the styling of the RS

[@wallyedmunds5643]

I fall into the RS camp for a number of reasons. I'm 5'7" so the sheer size of a GS, never mind a GSA is not practical for me. I ride exclusively on the road, so the RS is the horse for the course in my opinion, and I doubt that the GS is better than the RS as a pure 100% road bike from every aspect. From a purely aesthetic POV, in my opinion adventure bikes in general are just plain UGLY. Having said the above, if I was into adventure riding, I would probably re-think. Horses for courses above aesthetics and all that. BTW, I cringe when I see GS wank**s standing on the pegs riding through the traffic.

[@Bazza47]

@@wallyedmunds5643 I'm 5'7" too and have had 3 GS' although each of mine was the factory lowered one so the seat was actually slightly lower than the standard RS. The GS is better in some respects, the all round visibility is better, it rides nicer over poor surfaces thanks to the increased suspension travel and telelever front end. It's also more comfortable than the RS, especially for the pillion so if you were going to do lots of 2 up touring and don't want a (more expensive) RT then the GS makes sense. BUT.... the GS rider image isn't good, many hate it (though have never ridden one) because it's so common (there's a reason for that, it's because it is VERY good). It is also damn expensive now, a new 1300 in an equivelent spec to my just traded in GS TE is £20,500 my RS SE was 5k cheaper, plus I'd hope the 1250 is now prity much sorted. The RS has a more direct feel both in the suspension department and throttle response which makes on off throttle overtaking a joy and it's far easier to handle at low speeds and when filtering. Both are great bikes, it just depends where your priorities lie, mine have changed which is why I've swapped to an RS.

[@nevillelake1403]

Your 6,2 yes a GS is better suited

[@thechamp73]

@@ABRmagazine What exactly dose the GS do better other than be taller. RS will take corners better, the GS you have a more relax leg. Other than that, they are the same.

[@MR-vt3np]

After 4 GS bikes I have an RS. Still miss the GS (sometimes) but I find the RS more manageable, especially touring. I have tubular bars which help the ergonomics. All the weight is low down. On the GS 2 up and luggage it becomes hard work. Weather protection it’s not bad but you do get sprayed on the back of your legs. Even with a huggers. Wind buffet solved with a MRA screen deflector. I can filter better with the the RS in traffic, otherwise the review is spot on.

[@Dream-Academy]

Yes the wind is an easy fix. Obviously a 6'2" guys will need a bigger screen

[@paulyflyer8154]

The best RS review I've seen. Love the style of presentation, in the same vein as TMF with no stupid graphics camera angles and loud music. Also giving all the feedback I want from an experienced no-axe-to grind reviewer. I'll now be watching your other videos and subscribed. Cheers!

[@nickfry7705]

And don't forget the R1250R, with BMW panniers and a Top Box it makes a great tourer as having the added benefit of looking great (Like a real bike) and being a bit more upright than the RS. All a matter of what you want. I do tour but I'm happy to bimble up to 80mph which the R will do fine, above that it naturally gets a bit windy, if you need more speed then it'd need to be one of the other R's.

[@inspireddroneimaging8797]

Only had my RS 3 weeks and already I’ve got a feeling this is my ‘forever bike’ so pleased I didn’t follow the crowd and buy a GS

[@johnalbone3372]

I'm on my 3 Rd RS a having had 2 GSs I absolutely love it mines a 2023 in red white and blue and I've coved well over 6000 Mike's in the last five months

[@ABRmagazine]

The best colourway that, it looks bloody loverly

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Having owned both, hell yes it’s better than a GS!!! Even the 1200 version feels a lot quicker than its headline piwer figure suggest. Immense mid range shove due to lighter weight and different gearing to the GS, much better handling too. Bar risers a must (I recommend Helibars) and a better screen, either a Puig touring or MRA screen. Satnav relocation a myst too. Sort those issues and it’s a stunning sports tourer with real presence and all day comfort. Very economical too. 60mpg plus.

[@ljj808]

+1

[@Dream-Academy]

Yes and his criticism around town as not practical well eco mode.. great mpg sure less power but less power is the point of being appropriate around town now?

[@leonardotaggio6995]

I live in Alcester and I own a R1250RS SE. Nice to see some of the scenery I run and ride through. But I have only ran and walked the green lane. Don't think I will be taking my RS down that lane anytime soon.

[@theR0ck]

Just bought my r1250rs, 5’ 6” and riding it good. Love boxer engine😻

[@Bazza47]

Thanks, I'm about to jump ship to the RS. After having 3 GS' (all lowered) the GS is just getting a bit big for me now as I'm 5'7" and 67 years old and because I no longer carry a pillion or tour I've gone for an RS instead as it's easier to manage at low speeds plus the SE is significantly cheaper than a GS TE even if you add the comfort pack so makes the cost to change less painful if you're not on a PCP. I have gone for the tubular bars for a more upright riding position and will probably add an MRA screen and possibly lower pegs once I get it. There's nothing wrong with the GS far from it they're great bikes, I just fancied a change ragher than pay a lot more for a bike I already have. I did consider the 1250R but for me the lack of wind protection put me off.

[@ABRmagazine]

I think you'll be more than happy with the RS. Enjoy it!

[@robb8773]

I wouldn't give up my 1250GS for the RS just due to the too forward seating position on the RS. Love the new R1300GS so may be time for an upgrade.

[@ABRmagazine]

It is noticeably further forward - you do get used to it, but if you prefer an upright position, the GS reigns supreme

[@fearhand12]

Look at this tank of a lad reviewing these tanks. Makes the bikes look small. 😂

[@ONEly-uc4et]

Very comprehensive review. Thank you.

[@feloniousmonk3049]

I wanted to buy the RS, originally, but at 6'5" with a 36" inseam, the GS was a much better fit. Cost me a fair bit more, too, but ended up with a 2023 GS Trophy. Had 600 miles on it in 12 days. Must say, puts my HD Sport Glide to shame, in the comfort department. No burnt crotch anymore.

[@markhunt7218]

R1250R (or even R1200R) is extremely underrated and even more comfortable

[@TheDennzio]

no it isn't underrated sheesh

[@thumbthumb5998]

The handle certainly but the R has no fairing which is crucial for touring and many people simply swap the handlebar of the r onto the RS

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Nice videoo. Rode this bike and also the R1250R. I wonder if you rode it with the normal bars? If I am getting it right... you are 6ft 2. Would you go for the sport seat which is 2 cm higher (being 840 mm). Thanks for the answer. Take care, cheers.

[@ABRmagazine]

Sorry for the late reply to this comment! Yes, it was with the normal bars. I don't think I considered changing the seat when I rode it, but I'm not sure that being 2cm higher would be a worthwhile reason.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@ABRmagazine I see. Thanks a lot.

[@mikedignum1868]

I had the 1200 version a few years back. Then I had the 1250GS and like others of my age, I found the GS getting too heavy/big for me now. At the moment I have the F800GT (2016) and love it...its a baby RS in my opinion. But with the 1300GS out eventually, there will be some nice deals on the RS when that 1300 comes out. PS- Glad to see you have a moved satnav on the bike.

[@dagaines152]

You should balance your audio. The music is booming, but your voice is inaudible without turning the volume WAY up.

[@TheDennzio]

Thanks so much for a rider review.

[@stevedavies-pp7dp]

Coming from a K1200s I decided I didn’t need 170bhp , don’t get me wrong as I come from a sports bike background , indeed used to race when younger so I enjoy a bit of fun/power . The obvious choice was an XR but that’s chain and I wanted to keep a shaft so that left the longway round to Tescos and a GS , or the RS … real forks again instead of those weird things BMW fit that don’t really give you any feed back if pushing on , shaft drive but low handlebars … decisions decisions … then I came across an RS with a handlebar riser kit … hmmm I thought , the comfort of a GS but all the best bits ( I never ride off-road ) of the RS and that’s what I did … bought an RS had new taller bars fitted and I think I can say this is my ‘forever bike’

[@davewilton3101]

Interesting your comment on the K1200s. I bought one of the first ones in 2005 and rode it to 2012 when I simply wanted something different. Couldn't make a deal at the BMW store for a GT so I ended up on a Concours14 for 8 years. Put a good cruise control on it. Switched to Indian cruisers 4 years ago again for something different and currently on a Challenger. Next birthday is 72 and I am finding it is getting a little heavy to deal with. So I am looking for something lighter but still fun. Considering a S1000XR but like you mentioned I don't need or particularly want 170hp but the ergos on a low suspension are good. My only thought with the RS is the knee angle re comfort. Maybe a peg lowering kit and handle bar risers would modify it sufficiently. I live in Canada's prairies with not an over abundance of really fun riding roads so ground clearance with lowered pegs probably wouldn't be an issue. The hunt for the next bike continues......

[@LiborKroupa]

Someway somehow you forgot to mention the best Beemer in the 1250series - The R 1250R!

[@paulyflyer8154]

Yes I overlooked that too when I bought my second GS. At 63 and a shortarse that would have suited me better.

[@InterimExec]

Thanks for the review. BTW you have to adjust your camera. RIght now all that can seen thru most of the video is that useless Bmw GPS rack

[@keweenawbee]

Hi! What nav relocation kit are you using? It looks like it might have lateral adjustment for centering the nav insert's screen with the TFT? Thanks!

[@stuipooey1]

That is by a company called Motomate in the UK. The position is fixed

[@prinzeugen1503]

never felt that this bike is not nimble enough, tight bends included.

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

Getting buffeted by wind is what biking is all about.

[@fearhand12]

Also keeps you cooler. All he british reviews mention the heated grips and seats but here in Southern US wind is your friend

[@douglaselliott8298]

I owned 6 BMWs over my 40+ years of riding. I have a framed 500,000-mile award and medallion from BMW North America. I lost all respect for BMW when they replaced their history of pragmatic engineering with trendy electronic gimmickry. Replacing the 1200/1250 R and RS's front suspension with common telescopic suspension(Inverted or not) rather than the clearly superior Tele-Lever enjoyed on the GS and 1200/1250 RT vindicated they had lost the faith(along with my longtime patronage).

[@markmottershead646]

The wind noise is the biggest difference between the GS and the RS for me having switched. 2 months in and I'm still trying to solve the turbulence issues so if anyone has any suggestions...

[@ABRmagazine]

Only thing I've found so far is belly flopping over the tank so I'm fully behind the screen!

[@IanTed]

Puig touring screen works apparently…

[@markmottershead646]

@@IanTed - The very tall one? I’ve got the Givi version which has cut a lot of the noise but there’s still a lot of buffeting

[@windyrun7979]

Grumpy Goat has a review of screens and the one he likes best on his RS.

[@RF-dg4ib]

MRA screen with spoiler is perfect for me. And I'm not tall, so a lower seat also helped.

[@dougiequick1]

I dont get why BMW does these handlebars....why? Just styling? Why not just normal handlebars like on naked bikes? Bars you can swap to something else that suits you better etc? Its one major demerit for me

[@caferacerqu33n]

Normal handlebar is optional. The next one I order will have rearsets and proper clip-ons because I want more sport in my sports tourer.

[@nativebikers]

Handling in moutain curves?

[@GCTO239]

Why do you say even Honda? The quickshifters on most of the Japanese bikes are superb.

[@ABRmagazine]

Admittedly it does sound like a dig at Honda, but in reality I was running through manufacturers in my head with good quickshifters and almost forgot Honda, so said 'even Honda!'.

[@GCTO239]

@@ABRmagazine ah, okay, fair enough. Thanks for the answer, mate!

[@terrellgarren7125]

The boxer motor is excellent for the GS and RT. Relatively low on the excitement scale for a sport bike though. I still don’t get the purpose of the RS.

[@IanTed]

It’s not a sport bike, it’s a sport tourer for most GS riders who never leave the tarmac especially if you have short legs. Much sharper than a GS round corners too.

[@terrellgarren7125]

@@IanTed Sure dude. The RT is a sport tourer.

[@steveread6843]

Um, no. The RT is a barge.@@terrellgarren7125

[@alrightdave6135]

​@terrellgarren7125 it's a tourer dear.

[@alrightdave6135]

Are you new to bikes?

[@angelwink]

poor quality

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 what a silly comment. Do you own one or are you just regurgitating crap from a forum?