BMW R1300GS | In-Depth Test/Review On & Off Road (Best GS Ever?) (EP.2)

[@BigRockMoto]

⚡Long video ... but you can use the chapters/timestamps. Episodes 3,4 and 5 will focus on answering your questions, early modifications and accessories, comparisons to similar bikes in the category, and a buyer's guide. Stay tuned! Lot's more to come. Thanks for being here! 🏍TODAY’S GEAR: ⚡ Alpinestars Bogota Pro Jacket: imp.i104546.net/nLzME6 ⚡ Sidi Adventure 2 Boot: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx ⚡ Klim Krios Pro Helmet: imp.i104546.net/WD9gOM ⚡ Garmin inReach Communicator: bit.ly/3ybN1Bc ⚡ Mosko Moto Backcountry 25L Panniers: tinyurl.com/mtdmdjbp ⚡ Mosko Moto Nomax Tank Bag: tinyurl.com/244bryap ⚡ REV'IT! Echelon Pant: imp.i104546.net/ZQDZPR ⚡ REV'IT! OffTrack2 Glove: imp.i104546.net/xk3dVd ⚡ DJI Osmo Action 4: amzn.to/48O1F2b ⚡ DJI Osmo Pocket 3: amzn.to/3Pcqeik ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ 2024 Gear Guide: tinyurl.com/3jtkmdvz ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Cardo: tinyurl.com/yrjyy5yx ⚡ Chigee: tinyurl.com/486mm38k ⚡ Carpuride: tinyurl.com/bdmjxacc (use code BIGROCKMOTO for 30% off) ⚡ Lone Rider: bit.ly/4erYJeC ⚡ Insta360: tinyurl.com/whtd6ubt ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Lights: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Denali Lights: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@goatsmakesoapco.9113]

Maybe I missed it. Will the bike auto shift during the changes in adaptive cruise control? I know you manually did. Wasn't sure if you "over road" that feature with your manual shift? Top notch review! Been sharing your channel with others to join.

[@BigRockMoto]

​@goatsmakesoapco.9113 no, it can't shift on its own, you'd need a Honda with the DCT to do anything like that

[@AdventureAryck]

Great video!❤ tons of info. Blur out the speedo though…. We don’t need you getting in trouble 😂

[@davidr430]

Really appreciate all the great content! How would you say this bike compares to your MT-09 SP in handling and overall "fun factor"?

[@SWTrailsAndWheels]

From you, the longer the better!

[@vasilisk1985]

"R1300GS" the movie.

[@carlgressel574]

As it should be

[@christofonobrown3659]

❤

[@Rickmac22]

Uh….

[@ManuelM107]

Best comment ever

[@zeus5544332211]

Thank you Ian for taking the time to try to explore all this Swiss Army knife of bikes has to offer. I’m sure it could be an unwatchable 4 hours long if done by someone less professional and diligent than you.

[@thouseinthehouse]

I will likely never own a BMW GS. I will still watch every minute of this because I appreciate good work when I see it. Thanks Ian!

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks

[@davidmallia628]

Never say never!

[@dancarlin5434]

You can make a gs happen, they are worth the price tag, they are some of the best made adv bikes.

[@ajojoseph6052]

Never say never. I did and had to eat my words!!

[@martythompson6509]

To add balance to this discussion, I've been there...twice.... You'd think I would have learnt the first time. Amazing bikes to ride. But reliability and dealer competency are lacking greatly. I also have many friends with them. When you ask how their bikes going the default answer is always it's been perfect. Then you start asking more detailed questions and find they have all had multiple components either fail or wear out prematurely. The reputation and the realities do not match.

[@thegreenman2030]

The negative comments come from people who feel jealous or inadequate because they can’t afford something like this plain and simple. I just bought a Himalayan Scram for $4000.00 so that’s the kind of bike budget I have. Unless I hit the lottery tonight something like this is never going to be in my future and I’m okay with that and I still enjoy learning about it as well as seeing what it can do in the hands of a capable rider. Last week you had a KLX300 on this week you have this. I believe that’s something for everyone. Keep doing what you’re doing, I watch because I love bikes. I would think that’s the majority of your viewers.

[@BigRockMoto]

thank you

[@AndrewAtkinson1]

Enjoy the scram. The look like fun and invite a certain type of adventure that a GS won't (Ryan F9 was hilarious on one). I love both of them.

[@waltermitty7452]

@@BigRockMoto Congrats on the promotion to Head Janitor. I’ve been watching since you were just a lowly young apprentice janitor. Your adv jacket makes you look like Caption ADV! Lol! But no worries, I wear one too, but I haven’t made it to captain yet. Keep the great vids coming.

[@enricohagn]

Or from people who already experienced BMW's redundancy policies...

[@Cult1022]

My landrover brought me into adventures i wasn't expecting. Not because it was the best fourbyfourbyfar, no, because it was a shitbox. To travel 50'000 miles overland is something only few manage to cram into life. So many of the adventures we enjoy are small weekendtrips, where we overcome obstacles like breakdowns, inadequate tank-sizes or our first trials offroad. And for those adventures, the scram will more than do. It will bring you anywhere, if you gift it time and love. You're good!

[@brucekendall52]

You have made it very clear several times why you do what you do in terms of your business model.You are free to do as you please as far as i'm concerned and you do a good job on top of it.Cheers.

[@christofonobrown3659]

And you provide fantastic information that people looking at bikes are interested in.

[@gilmashalim9918]

Big Rock Moto is one of the channels that whenever they upload a video you know it’s gonna be good. Keep up the good work!

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@kevinyoung5841]

They? Is there a they?

[@TheFbiFilesRepeat]

@@kevinyoung5841word police 👮

[@motormichael5831]

Seeing this video pop up on my feed reminds me of when I was a teenager and a new Cycle World showed up in the mail. Thank you for what you do and how you do it!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@jbassbike1111]

You are crushing it, Ian. Your no-nonsense reviews are extremely valuable and much appreciated. And while all of the information is presented in a thoughtful professional manner, I get the biggest kick out of your enthusiastic laughter when you pin the throttle. We all can relate to the butt dyno.

[@castigo1986]

Technical note: thanks for going the extra mile offering chapters to navigate the video. Top video as always!

[@stephenmarks1490]

Great review and, while I haven't ridden one off road, I did ride a 1300 for about an hour yesterday and I concur with you on every point. I wouldn't worry, or even address, the haters. This is a product of the internet having normalized negative behavior. Fine for someone not to like a bike, but most are opining without having ridden one or even seeing one in person. My advice is never to try to placate people who are insecure, irrational and uninformed. Just do your reviews and keep being as honest and informative as you always are. I have several friends who are Moto journalists and I've even done a bit of my own in a few magazines. You are one of the best. Period!

[@GrIrTi]

Without doubt, Ian is the benchmark real world motorcycle tester. I’m 99% sure I wouldn’t buy a bike unless Ian had rubber stamped it with his insightful, transparent and uncompromising review.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@ajojoseph6052]

The most honest moto YTber by a big margin. See how Ian says it’s a business how he won’t buy the bike now. Keep up the great work. Your video helped me decide on the GSA and this one will when I upgrade in 2yrs or so.

[@MatahRod]

I got my R1300GS Triple Black about a month ago after owning a R1200 and R1250. This is definitely the best and most comprehensive review I’ve came across so far! Thank you and congrats

[@MrTeslaX]

How do you like it so far. I have one on order and expect to get it next month.

[@arthurzielinski8187]

You’re doing an awesome job, Ian. Keep up the good work! I just picked up a Norden 901 Expedition and I’m in love! All the best.

[@chriscleland7008]

I’ve got a 2023 901 standard for sale if you know anybody in need. Completely decked out!

[@davidwood301]

If there one thing that is the most revealing in the entire review it’s the sheer joy evident in the laughter Ian has on and off road when he’s twisting the throttle. That’s the most honest review ever. My next bike for sure. No real hard core off road aspirations so I really appreciate how good this bike is on asphalt. Really like the comparison to the RT. I sold mine a few years ago but loved it dearly. Thanks Ian.

[@jolebole-yt]

This is the most comprehensive in depth and longest motorcycle review I have ever watched. As as amateur photographer and videographer I know how much work goes into a making a 1hr 20min video from all the raw footage. You deserve a big fat check from BMW MotorAD for all your hard work promoting their new GS. Well done!👏🏻

[@tacticalwaffle2734]

I will never purchase a 1300 GS, but I do appreciate your great content Ian! Kudos!

[@MarkDutrisac]

At first I thought a 1:22h video would be long, but I found it very useful and fun to watch. I appreciate your honnest opinion, intelligent comments and nuances, and always being respectful of other opinions. Keep up the good work and eager to watch Ep#3. Thanks

[@tdog2225]

As a Brit watching your vids, I appreciate the way that you go into everything deeply and give a good honest judgement. Your knowledge of the subject and respect that you pay is top notch. Keep up the good work and try and ignore the people trying to disrespect you and your work. There are always negative people out there. I say if you don't appreciate something don't watch. The guy is doing a Job and a good one at that.

[@laceyunderall68]

As usual, the most comprehensive reviewer in the motorcycle industry. I'll wait to purchase the GSA. Thanks Ian!

[@theeschatechannel2854]

I’m not even interested in the GS but I saw the 1:22:00 time frame and knew it was going to be a good review. Manufacturers need to just start giving you bikes if you are putting in this kind of work to get the word out. Fair and balanced assessment as usual.

[@Play_Streams]

That GS engine low rumble just does it for me. Beautifitul machine

[@SeanD2937]

We appreciate you brother. Thanks for all the hard work 🤙 don’t worry about the haters😂

[@chiptaxfree]

You are quite the professional! And I love the transparency.

[@rjsalameh]

Hands down the best reviewer on YT! The right context setting, the detail, all of it!!!

[@BigRockMoto]

Wow, thanks!

[@theR0ck]

Hey Ian 👋🏽, thanks for the video it’s very informative. Just bought mine at the same place you bought yours at BMW Motorrad Riverside, Rick will deliver it to my house probably today or tomorrow, still being put together (just got taken out from the crate). Looking forward to your next videos👍🏾

[@BigRockMoto]

Great to hear!

[@DirtObseXXion]

I bought a 23 1250GSA a year ago, which was tough because the 1300s were all but confirmed at that time. Ultimately, with no release date for the 1300 and the dealer saying it would be at least a year (which was spot on) I went ahead with the 1250. Now that the 1300 GSA is still a ways out, and the buttons/controls are something I really like about the 1250 GSA, I'm glad I didn't wait. The 1300 certainly looks like an improvement but price disparity is about 7k OTD (GSA Enduro Package compared to what Ian bought). The front end feel is very different on a GS than any other bike. Ian does a great job explaining the pros/cons but I still wasn't prepared for how different the feeling in the front end is.. Still getting used to it a year and 13k miles later. There's nothing I'd rather be on for cross country trips with some forest roads and gravel, but it's offroad performance is a compromise. It's more like a jeep in that it can do it, but it's bulky and slow going if it's technical. Suspension and weight are definitely the limiting factors.

[@BigRockMoto]

Very well said

[@MRGS48]

I also bought a Trophy GSA cause I did and still don’t like the new GS… I might haunt me when they’ll show us the new GSA1300 but I do enjoy mine even off road with minimal dirt skills…

[@DirtObseXXion]

@@MRGS48 I really enjoy mine too.. The off road experience on it is just much different than the middles weights. I also have a dual sport which makes the GSA feel that much more foreign off road.. It's still a lot of fun, it just doesn't have the off road performance that traditional well sprung forks provide on a lighter bike... But I suppose that almost goes without saying.

[@MRGS48]

@@DirtObseXXion it’s built for comfort not performance🤣🤣 It’s literally 3-4 bikes in one if you think about it and also have the skills to ride her that way😀

[@stephencrofts5349]

Possibly best bike review by someone who can actually ride, in depth & constructive

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks

[@johannvanromburgh3971]

I like your attitude. We cant all afford nice things. But I can certainly appreciate them. I have a 2016 R1200gs which was 4 years old when I bought it. Cannot afford to upgrade, and that is okay. I still love my bike. It is my 3rd BMW bike and second GS. Only an enormous winfall will see my buying a new bike, but if I could, it will be a new GS... biased? Yes I am biased. Gotta love the GS

[@carlosbenitez6438]

Literally the absolute best channel for reviews. Hands down. I’m buying a GS based off this. So good. Thank you for all the awesome work!!!!

[@BigRockMoto]

awesome! enjoy it!

[@brentrichardson3366]

Everything i have come to like about your videos, precise and in depth, but above all honesty, appreciate it, thanks Ian

[@chriss8620]

I sorry you're getting enough negative comments to make it worth your time to talk about. I appreciate the work you do and also really appreciate the wide variety of bikes you test. I'm just as interested in your reviews of the crf330l as the 1300gs and everything in between. Keep up the good work.

[@jameslee5428]

Ian your laughter is true enjoyment of what you love doing. Great review. In my book, you are simply the best at what you do. PS you’re the reason why I’m riding my brand new Honda 750 TransAlp. Again thank you for the great content.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you kindly

[@craigcooper8810]

nice! jacket Ian :)

[@dennisquinn2317]

Huge help. Thanks for your thorough review/analysis. Expecting delivery on mine (triple black) within the next 2 weeks. Can't wait!

[@pedrosouzalima5167]

Amazing review! No questions left unanswered… no compromise, very pondered critics and complements. 1 plus hour that went by in a flash. Thanks 🙏

[@RetiredAdventureRider]

Wow, what a video. I'm glad I stuck around to the end. I'm impressed by the off-road, especially your points about the braking downhill. That was one of my biggest challenges riding an adventure bike off-road. I'll probably never get to own a bike like this, so I appreciate the chance to experience it vicariously.

[@nicholasshaw7672]

Totally support you Big Rock, we need your expert insight into latest bikes so we can see pros & cons. I understand your business model- it's cool, and it works for us- your viewers in the UK, we benefit from all your entertaining videos too, we love Big Rock content- thank you. Nick p.s test rode the new GS 1300 ('triple black') today at Preston BMW (Bowker) & loved new experience. Never ridden a GS before! Rode there on my trusty Ducati Multistrada Enduro 1260 - awesome fun!

[@majorlee1]

Yes! Thought I was going to have to wait until Monday for this. Grabbing a cup of coffee and watching. Thank you Ian master shoeshine janitor!

[@clayfarnet970]

The video was posted minutes ago and your comment says it was posted a day ago. Are you the future speaking? Is the price of bitcoin going up or down? 😜🤣😂

[@majorlee1]

@@clayfarnet970 Haha 😂 I wish I knew! I go to the playlists on Ian’s channel Saturday mornings before I ride and found this vid early I guess.

[@4LowRocks]

Ian, this was a supremely comprehensive review - no wasted time, no fan-boy love, etc. You well covered the entire bike. Yes, at this price point and with years of customer feedback, the lack of backlit switch gear has become unforgivable. That, and locking the configurable switch to your last selected option in the settings screen is also unforgivable (sure would be nice to have the four configurable buttons on the RT, right?). Imagine bringing some of these features to the RT platform - the new engine, a bit lighter, adaptive right hight, the forged wheels, more tuning to the suspension, etc., and I think that platform will bring great renewed interest to riders not looking for off-road use. Oh yeah, and BMW really needs to just give in and put CarPlay and Android Auto into these two wheeled computers.

[@deon1978]

Thanks Ian. I've watched a few videos on the new 1300GS. And I've written it off based on that. I've even been thinking of getting a 1250Adv before it goes off sale. But this has been by far the best snd most complete review I've seen. And so much more informative than anything else out there. That you have made me consider this bike again. I have a 1200GS but the 1st LC model. Like you though my preference is to wait as I already learned my lesson with my 2013 model and I want the adv next time round. Anyway, thanks for the great work. One of your best videos yet. I was amazed when I saw the lengthf of the video. But the entire video was great and it never got boring or repetitive. Watched it from to start finish. Well done and thanks again.

[@joeybobbie1]

Hi Ian, Thanks for making this Video. This is by far the Video I have seen about the R1300GS. I still Ride a 2006 R1200GS and have no complaints. It’s been so reliable and doing my own Maintenance is easy. I may move up to a newer Model one day, but as long as this one keeps giving me problem free Miles, I can’t complain.👍👍

[@cowmath77]

With the average priced motorcycle being so good these days, and the average wage of Americans sitting stagnant, I understand why more people find it silly to drop $30k. Luxury goods do exist, but the joy of motorcycling is being on 2 wheels in the open air, the experience of riding is 80% of it, 20% of it is the bike.

[@Roberta_Esposito]

$30k insane

[@cowmath77]

@@Roberta_Esposito it is, but probably not for someone like Ian. Look where the guy lives, his property must be $800k; southern Cali with land? Come on… maybe even a million.

[@ScenicRiderAdventures]

The laughter in the helmet. I did that with my first motorcycle a year ago. Now I am saving up for this beast. I hope to own it by 2026

[@tango165]

Always makes me laugh that people bark at the price point, this is the most popular model BMW sells, people are buying them as fast as they can make them- go price out a Ducati, HD, Goldwing etc etc the price is not for everyone but there is a huge market for this price point and beyond bike- price isn’t an issue for these bikes…. Great review Sir..😎👍🏼

[@MrJihadkoplo]

thank you , this is the most detail review about this bike i find in youtube

[@SideQuestStijn]

Thanks for this amazing video! One of my favorite YT motorcycle channels 👍👍

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@bengd3785]

As always, you're thorough and thoughtful. You hit the nail on the head for some of us (engineer life myself). Keep it up and don't fret with the negativity, it's the Internet in 2024, everybody has an opinion and everything is horrible according to some. You're doing great and I love to see your channel grow. Reminder, have fun along the way, you're living your dream and some of ours.

[@mikekunze9042]

Best motorcycle-revews you can find on yt. 👍

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you think so!

[@emfl4437]

The amount of options that BMW has for the GS is overwhelming. You did a great job highlighting the various options packages and which ones came with your bike. Crazy the BMW optioned even the foot-pegs too, seems like that should be a standard. Seems like an amazing bike. I look forward to your additional reviews

[@paul.vanhout57]

Excellent , thorough and honest review. Hopefully a stout battery if using centerstand assist with the engine off😬

[@johnandrobinmccoy8305]

I can tell you put a lot of work into this video (and others you do). You sold me my 22 R1250GSA. Keep up the good work.

[@vamsi9432]

Holy.... It's a feature length film. Appreciate the effort. Thank you

[@m.z.h1484]

You are one of the top go to guys for our sport! I have found all your videos invaluable, this is coming from a guy who's owned over ten ADV bikes in the past twelve years. And once again I am considering a new bike, yes it's the R1300GS. So, keep up the great reviews, you serve a large and growing community of enthusiasts who share your passion.

[@BigRockMoto]

Wow, thanks!

[@erickmontero6222]

I just picked up a Tuareg after going through that series. Not considering a GS but love all the content regardless. Thanks!

[@BigRockMoto]

Good choice!

[@MotoFishy]

I almost got a Tuareg before getting the 800DE. It was that, the Transalp, and the 800DE I was looking at. All excellent motorcycles to be fair.

[@MrTeslaX]

Why did you not consider 1300 gs?

[@erickmontero6222]

@@MrTeslaX a bit too large and expensive for my tastes. I’ve had the lightweight and heavy weight ADVs already it’s time for the sweet middle weight.

[@randycoleman6065]

I love your work. I can’t imagine a more complete, balanced, objective reviewer. Thanks for all you do!

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@dstubby82]

1:22:19?😮 "Dian, I'm gonna need you to move my 930 to 1100. Also, make a note that I'm to be at the BMW dealership on Friday."😁

[@got_to_roll]

Great review of a fascinating product. This particular bike is very intriguing to me. Your integrity is more apparent in each video. I really appreciate your dedication to quality production, realistic evaluations, and trying to walk the line of not offending people. Tough job very well done. Thanks!

[@GCTO239]

This video makes my desire for the simplicity and rock-solid reliability of a T7 even greater. Man, adv biking is about the pure experience of riding or getting to remote places without thinking about useless electrical devices. If you like it...enjoy! Happy for you. And this has nothing to do with insufficient funds or jealousy. Couldn't care less. People just have to understand that not everybody capable of spending this crazy amount of bucks desires this kind of overkill. A T7 or a Transalp can generate more fun in the hands of an experienced and skilled rider. This is an opinion and not hating. The GS is just another bike...don't forget that!

[@purificator1004]

Ameen. Adventure is not the obsession of showing off or looking at the bike...it is indeed about going to the remotest places and have memories instead of reliability drama...I have seen owners not sleeping well during trips as they were so concerned about the bike being stollen or driveshaft failure at high-speed...what is really mind bogging is just how the owners are in deep denial...it shows really an extreme low self esteem to possessed by a bike brand instead of being a truly free adventure rider.....so sad

[@szoe139]

​@@purificator1004 In fact, what nobody needs are people telling others how their "adventure" should be.

[@purificator1004]

@szoe139 it happens only to those that say "this bike is the best for adventure and haters are there because they cannof afford it *poor them*"....sorry for any offence!

[@GCTO239]

@@purificator1004 agreed, mate!

[@szoe139]

​​@@purificator1004 Unfortunately, that's not entirely true. Most people who ride a big bike know the limits and consciously accept them. For example, I don't know anyone who would claim that it's the best concept for technical stuff offroad, but otherwise there are a lot who really believe that's the only way where "adventure" can be found. As long as everyone just evaluates which bike is best suited to their own intended use, everything is fine. It becomes difficult when one person denies the others ability to judge for themselves. I also wonder why there are "haters" of any concept in our scene at all, because it shouldn't really matter why or what someone enjoys.

[@exploringnations269]

One thing I will always appreciate ever since joining the channel, is the honesty Ian, for the good or the bad, just the way it is!

[@danilonunez9363]

Great bike! I would like to hear your thoughts about the 2024 ATAS. awesome content!

[@NicholasForsa]

I’ve also seen your review of the Ducati Multistrada Rally, which you seemed to really like. I’m debating between the GS 1300 and the Multistrada Rally and haven’t seen any head to head reviews on these bikes. Would be great if you could put one out (road and off-road). Would appreciate your view (and ultimately your opinion as to which you’d buy if you could only take one or the other).

[@DaveBoothroyd-ej5in]

The great thing about really expensive MC's such as the GSs is the depreciation: within a couple of years or so you can always find one, usually in very good, little-used-off-road condition for almost half the price. At that point you don't have to worry too much about dropping them.

[@903lew]

Hell, you usually find one that’s hardly been ridden other than one weekend a year and to the service. People who can float that type of money for a bike are usually either old, really busy or both. I find three years old and about 8-10k miles to be where I step in to buy a bike, as long as the service history is there (and it usually is) I’ve not gone wrong yet.

[@dorotapaluszynska5457]

hi, you gonna review Kove 450, Kove 800x and CFMoto 450mt? Cheers

[@RandomGRK]

I posted this on FB. Unpopular or popular opinion I don’t know. I test rode the R1300GS today and didn't like it that much. • I hate sitting on the bike as opposed to into it. On my LC, I feel like I'm in command of a powerful ship. On the 1300, it feels like I'm on a sportbike • I didnt like the engine as much as my 2013. The 2013 LC is more characterful, agricultural and I like it. Explains why I like Moto Guzzis and I miss my old DR650. These are bikes that shake and rattle. I like that. • The screen is horrible for me. Granted I'm comparing the stock screen to mine which is perfectly set up for me. • The center stand...I dont have room to move my foot around. Very strange placement. • Not sure if there is a limiter on the 1300 bike or something since it has 38 miles on it but I felt like my 2013 has more immediate torque. Strange since we know the 1300 kills the 1200. • The heated seat kept turning itself on. Too much gadgetry for my liking throughout. No dedicated heated grips or aux light button. • I found handling to be similar at slower city speeds which is what I rode. • My stock headers and pipe sounds much nicer than the 1300 which had the Akro pipe on it. All in all, I feel zero reason to upgrade. In fact, in a couple of years I'll pick up a 1250 even if I could get the 1300 for the same price. My old girl has done me proud!

[@SP-xd8gs]

its light years better than the 1250 to me, im 1000 miles in on my triple black. night n day

[@cowmath77]

@@SP-xd8gslight years… please. It’s modest improvements at best. Anything you could do on a 1300 you can do on a 1250.

[@SP-xd8gs]

@@cowmath77 nah its a totally different bike

[@franciscoluna9596]

You don’t need to explain anything Ian. I enjoy every single second of all your videos about the hottest bikes out there. Those are just foolish comments of people without a real life. What a shame!….your channel is hands down one of the best channels about Adventure bikes, keep it up!

[@omaewanani3887]

People whos asking moto reviewer WHY he bought 1 GS instead of 3 transalps, just imagine review of 3 transalps over and over again....

[@Carlisho]

Only 4,300 rpm at 80mph that is so good 😌, that alone would be an upgrade worth looking for if you already have a GS, but man what a phenomenal bike. Definitely will be my next and probably last bike I will ever own. Thank you for your hard work BigRockMoto.

[@BERZERKER888]

For the @$35k for this BMW, I purchased a 2023 V85TT AND a 2023 Aprilia Tuareg 660, with a few thousand $$$$ left over…since 99% of the GS/A owners spend 99% of their ride time highway/paved road droning , the V85TT is perfect for 1/2 the price…and it comes with 3 hard cases/racks …BMW gets what @$3k? For their cases/racks… as for the Aprilia… The GS/A owners can only dream that their grossly over priced and bloated BMWs had 1/10th the off road prowess as the Tuareg….and this observation comjng from a GSA owner for the last 10 years….

[@stephenmitchum5864]

That was a lot to write just to say you have never owned a GS.

[@mikemerrill175]

Which proves that there is something out there for everyone. I love my beat to crap 1250 GS for what it’s designed for as I love my K1600 for long distance touring. That’s what does it for me

[@OnMyWayBack888]

It all depends where you are located and what you drive. There is something for everyone. As long as you ride it’s awesome. You are wasting your time in trying to prove an unprovable point.

[@brettroman3218]

I don’t think I’ve watched a better motorcycle review Ian.Just keep doing what you’re doing.Exemplary.Thorough.Thanks,

[@GCTO239]

Well, you dropped the Transalp without any form of protection...I missed that in this video.

[@ne-adv]

It was a TA. Bic disposable. The GS is more a limited-edition Zippo.

[@GCTO239]

@@ne-adv so what? Still a freaking lighter. 🤣

[@TheSar]

Amazing as always Ian. Easily the most comprehensive, unbiased and real-world moto content on KZbin. Go well!

[@ronseguin7289]

Too big and bulky for an adventure bike. I test rode one and didn’t buy it but if this is your cup of tea, enjoy!

[@GCTO239]

Agreed

[@gamingdog65]

Do you consider the 1250 gs as too large?

[@purificator1004]

Amen....expensive load of scrap...

[@dynomike4142]

I think about those that live in Midwest states or further east. If you want to BDR, you are riding 2-3 days to Colorado. I would much rather be on a 1300gs than a 690 or even a T7.

[@mcnuggetapple]

I see a lot of guys saying this that don’t ride a lot. That’s fine. If you do a ton of riding across the US and like to hit some trails. Big bikes rule, also they CAN be pretty capable if you aren’t scared

[@AF-O6]

I’m getting one! I do want to watch your options and configuration video first. Even after watching, I’m not totally convinced on auto ride height and forged wheels. I’ve owned for big GSes…and haven’t missed those features…but suppose I don’t know any better. Fantastic reporting. The best I’ve seen (and I’ve watched them all).

[@beborodner930]

Love this channel! You cover all the details so well. As. Mechanical engineer I really appreciate that. I can't afford this bike, in fact im still riding my tiger 800 xc. but still very interested in the tech from a GS, since it forces the industry to get better. My dream is to own a GS and a KLX but my reality is another used bike.. Thank you BMW and Harley Davidson for adding adjustable ride heigt to mix.

[@Porsche996driver]

30:52 That is cool to tuck away the centerstand. Every detail is thoroughly thought out. That perfect windshield with lower deflectors. Also love the higher gearing for the highway. Impressed. Hate to lose fuel capacity but let’s see the mpg for you.

[@sukhbuyanl3368]

Great!. Next time, I wanna to see deep sand test.

[@Rickmac22]

Ian, I love your content. This review is spectacular, like many of your other reviews, you are THE leader in the motorcycle review Vlog space… thanks for your commitment to reviewing every ADV bike in the market. Based on decades of negative experience with BMW, I would NEVER consider this bike much less any BMW offerings. I also feel that no one covers the 40% major mechanical failure rates in the first four years of BMW ownership… hope you include this in your final summary.

[@BigRockMoto]

Wow, thanks!

[@troygalbraith625]

Thank you, best and most in depth review online

[@packfan1946]

Beautiful bike and great improvement over the previous models but it's too much for me in both power and price. Would you recommend a used one from the recent past like the last seven years? The 1200 or the 1250? Which is better? Thanks.

[@rotasaustralis]

Great honest, info pact review. You do one of, if not the best motorcycle reviews on the net. Been watching your reviews for some years now, excellent.

[@christopherroach6865]

Best R1300GS review yet! I can see the evolution of your reviews as I watch several seasons. Keep it up Ian. Bravo.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks 👍

[@DavidODonnell-Breck]

Excellent as always. From the point you wiggled in the rain grooves all the way through the onroad sections I kept yelling at you to tell everyone you are on Karoo 4s

[@קוביריש]

As usual, the bad guy from LOST makes the best in dephth reviews... well done.

[@fanismarg1977]

Dream bike! Really nice presentation Ian! Keep up the good work mate! Greetings from Greece!

[@thebigoaktree8401]

Great content Ian. If I didn’t live in a BMW dealership desert I would have purchased the 1250 last spring (ended up going with the Tiger 1200 Rally Pro). Both choices were thanks to you and your previous in depth reviews of both bikes. For me anything less than the flagship models of either of these brands wouldn’t do. And, it cost me a pretty penny as granny used to say. The new GS is super expensive, even compared to my maxed out TRP. That being said I won’t buy/can’t justify the GS at that price. But it is a beautiful bike and looks to be able to do the business as well. It will change industry …again. Your channel’s business model separates your content from most every other motorcycle journalist on the platform. You aren’t selling, you are teaching. I appreciate how you present the information, and I look forward for the rest of the series. You are off to a stellar start.

[@mariocassiovieiramarquesma5551]

Congratulaions for the excellent and independent review. We can see you had fun doing this one. Keep up with the great work.

[@jimwhitfield184]

People like to hate. Personally, I enjoy your videos and support your objectivity. I think that you are achieving your journalistic goals. Good on you and game on!! 🙂

[@verktools731]

Hi, your reviews is the best you can get on youtube by a mile. I owning a Honda Transalp 750 now, but thinking to go over to a R1300GS. And its no other place to get qualified info as in your channel in my opinion. Extreme quality. Cheers from Norway!

[@FaysalMotovlogs]

Hi Ian, Good work I appreciate, your videos are very informative and helpful. I would like to say thankyou for your allanvideos I have been watching since couple of years and it helped to make decision which motorcycle I must purchase. I bought 1250 GSA Trophy last year. It was your experience I got to have bike finalised. Thankyou very much and keep going.

[@rockyk3973]

Thanks Ian, for the effort you out into trying to be as informative and as direct as you possibly can. Please keep it up. I have watched and read every review I can get my hands on regarding the new 1300 GS. Yours are some of the most informative. Two things, one, thank you for covering the adaptive ride height in detail. This area often gets glossed over because it seems many GS reviewers are taller riders who don't seem to appreciate how very important this is to short inseam riders such as myself. Second, even though I have thoroughly researched the 1300GS (going so far as to read the owner manual even before having taken delivery of mine), I learn a little something each time I tune in to your channel. Case in point, not one review (until yours) mentioned the lower rpm at freeway speeds (i.e. the taller 5th and 6th gears over the outgoing 1250 model). A detail that is worth mentioning given the implications for long distance touring. Also, a personal experience to relate to to all those shorter GS riders out there with regards to the lack of awareness on the part of some industry professionals regarding the challenges short inseam riders face: An instructor (quite tall and long of leg) directed his sarcasm at me at an off road riding class last year when I asked where the low seat was on the GS that I had trained on the previous day. He quipped sarcastically that since it was an "off road " class where we would be standing much of the time, why did it matter? I replied (in all seriousness), that I would prefer not to high center and fall over (even on flat ground) every time I came to a stop. He just stared at me blankly. That made it evident that he was lacking in the all important ability for an educator or coach ( or journalist ) to grasp the issues facing riders who are not physically similar to themselves.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing. Having the right seat height is so important.

[@GeorgeOutThere]

Ian, we watch you, because we want - we appreciate your depth and honesty as being one of us. There will always be people talking, but you don't need to explain how you finance and why you do stuff.

[@rogerparkes1393]

Like the summary. :)

[@davidsnipes7297]

Ok, I haven't watched this just yet but I notice that it is an hour and 22 minutes... tell my you luv this bike without saying I luv this bike... Always enjoy your videos Ian so let me grab a meal to sit with this one all the way thru! Thank you sir - keep up the excellent work.

[@nestortorres5458]

Your videos are truly helpful when I am researching details of a new bike I may be considering for purchase. I am grateful for the details you explain and demonstrate, leading to interesting and surprising details learned from your videos. In my humble opinion, your videos are the closest I can get to learn about a motorcycle without buying it to find learn about it afterwards. With that said, I look forward to enjoying more of your videos and using the information from them. Thank you and keep recording 🙂.

[@antonoat]

This will be the definitive review of this bike anywhere, just what many of us have been waiting for, thank you Ian you're a star! To my mind this is probably the best all-round motorcycle ever made!

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ChrisMag100]

I test rode one over the weekend. I liked it. It’s not as agile as my Multistrada 1200S, but I enjoyed it. The engine mapping is great and the torque is fantastic. Also, looks better in person. Also, the brakes felt nice. Overall, much better than the 1200GSA I had ridden previously.

[@Robinsbro17]

By far, the best GS review ever. Thank you for the in-depth analysis. This should really help anyone who is considering this bike. Thanks again.

[@DragoniteMotoJP]

bit off topic, do you have an indepth longterm review of the klim helmet? its a lot of money in Japan, but i trust your reviews

[@SWTrailsAndWheels]

That is the best quickshifter demonstration ever recorded!