Living with the BMW R1300GS for 6 Months (EP.8)

[@BigRockMoto]

If you have any questions about the R1300GS, I'd be happy to help. Would you like to see more GS videos in the future, or focus more on the smaller and cheaper bikes? ➕R1300GS Upgrades: ⚡ Denali D7 Pro Lights: tinyurl.com/vj4p52fz ⚡ Denali R1300GS Bundle (save $): tinyurl.com/mt5ksvxe ⚡ Denali CanSmart Controller: tinyurl.com/4ad2ncb7 ⚡ Denali Crash Bar Light Mounts: tinyurl.com/3vytet3s ⚡ Denali B6 Brake Light: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Chigee AIO-5 Play for BMW: collabs.shop/4rmr1m ⚡ Touratech Crash Bars, Pannier Rack, Skid Plate, Radiator and Headlight Guards: tinyurl.com/5yta2bcd ⚡ Mosko Moto BackCountry Panniers: tinyurl.com/mtdmdjbp ⚡ SW-Motech Pannier Racks, Pro WP Tank Bags and Accessories: sw-motech.us/ ⚡ BlackDog pegs: tinyurl.com/bdhkmwk5 ⚡ Motoz GPS Tires: pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ Cool Covers Seat Cover: www.coolcovers.co.uk/ ⚡ Hepco Becker Handguard: tinyurl.com/3bvk4jnr ⚡ Dabrabbit Graphics Kit: tinyurl.com/y4kwfrjm ⚡Denali Lights Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4fbo5aNgcaclbs ⚡2024 Gear Guide Download: tinyurl.com/3jtkmdvz ➕SUPPORT➕ (affiliate links) ⚡ Link Tree: linktr.ee/bigrockmoto ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Carpuride: tinyurl.com/bdmjxacc (use code BIGROCKMOTO for 30% off) ⚡ Lone Rider: bit.ly/4erYJeC ⚡ MotoCampNerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=tv7aUA86wYMVPp ⚡ Veridian Cruise: veridiancruise.com/?coupon=bigrockmoto ⚡ Insta360: tinyurl.com/whtd6ubt ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Chigee: tinyurl.com/486mm38k ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@exploringnations269]

love the mix of big bikes and small ones the way it is, that´s why its my go to channel when changing bikes!

[@RockerMotoRental]

Hi, I just wanted to ask you about how do you like the sound of the engine (not exhaust) because when I test road the bike for 20 min I was quite disapointed with the sound because it sounded more like a tractor then any gs before. I now own a 2023 1250 gs rallye and it does not sound like that. Also it looks like there are more vibrations from the engine than on the 1250 gs. One other quite concerning thing is the gearbox which makes quite load noise when changing gears. Did you notice that and did you have any problems with the gearbox? Thanks, Chris from Croatia, Europe

[@RockerMotoRental]

Just to add that I realy like your reviews which are honest, very detailed and professional :) Keep up with the good work!

[@johnalbone3372]

More on the 13GS please

[@papertiger795]

I watch everything you put out there... But I'd think the smaller bikes would be better for the channel. The potential buyer pool for the new Himalayan, or something similar, has to be orders of magnitude larger than prospective 1390 KTM owners, or whatever. But you have the analytics at your disposal, both KZbin and for your business, so... Do more of what works for you.

[@Met201101M]

I found that my GS R1300GS is a game changer. I've had GSs for years and I see how they improved the suspension and balance for better enduro riding. Can't wait to tackle BDRs with it soon!

[@ChainBrothers]

Greetings from Germany. For your Information: 1. The first Service 600mi/1.000km is not free of charge here, of course not :D 2. The final drive change is due to the fact, that some of the previous versions broke. So now it`s easier for BMW to claim its a wear part and they are not responsible for these costs. 3. Most BMW bikes don`t have a tail-light anymore, thats just cost saving. It started with the RR, because it was easier to modify it for the track. But now the implement it everywhere.

[@GCTO239]

Hallo Chain Brother! Cool, dass du auch hier bist. Gut, dass du das hier aufklärst. Wollte ich auch schon machen. 😉 Viele Leute in den Staaten wissen nichts von den gebrochenen Kardanwellen und den resultierenden Unfällen. GS is not for me. Ich habe mich inzwischen übrigens für die T7 World Rally entschieden und könnte nicht glücklicher sein. Weiter so, Junge! Du hast einen genialen Kanal.

[@ChainBrothers]

@@GCTO239 ja das ist guter ehrlicher content, das gibt es ja aus Deutschland gefühlt nicht mehr 🙂

[@GCTO239]

@@ChainBrothers da stimme ich dir komplett zu. Bis auf deinen Kanal schaue ich nur englischsprachige Kanäle. MAD TV, Dork und Chris von Bike World mag ich beispielsweise auch. Ian ist unschlagbar, wenn es um gründliche reviews geht. Nur die GS mag er ein bißchen zu sehr. 🤣 Aber das verzeihe ich ihm, weil er unfassbar integer ist. 😉 P.S.: 1000 PS hat sich leider völlig disqualifiziert

[@crystalpipic772]

I'd like you to address why you removed the short-lived video about positive bike reviews. I figure either you reconsidered what you said or didn't like what the commenters were saying. I think it's an important topic and kudos to you for bringing it up - even though it lasted less than 24 hours. 🤐 Love your reviews!

[@andewgoodale7499]

I didn’t realize that video was gone, I enjoyed it

[@kevinmorphet8083]

It was probably not a good business decision to leave it up. Big Rock Moto is probably in the top 3 when it comes to journalistic integrity for this industry. But he identifies the biggest issue with all ‘review’ channels, maybe unwittingly. Namely, that regardless of industry, to keep their business model viable, reviewers must carefully nurture relationships with their related manufacturers. This makes genuine objectivity practically impossible. Consumer beware. Always. BTW, I want to thank Big Rock Moto for informative and thorough content.

[@johnalbone3372]

The seat on mine seems OK

[@johnalbone3372]

I'm getting 55 to 62 mpg imperial galon I paid for the parts on first service labour is free in England

[@johnalbone3372]

I've been told by my dealer the drive shaft replacement will be free as long as you have the bike serviced at BMW

[@PeterBaumgart1a]

The drive shaft replacement every 48k miles will cost about $3k for parts and labor at my dealer in California. This is 10% of the bike price! And for me personally it will be quite an incentive to keep my 1250GS for as long as possible, where the replacement will be free every 36k miles. Not a very smart sales strategy IMO. (Plus the 1250 has a better seat! :-)

[@big566bunny]

Calling the shaft drive a consumable item mostly sours my interest in this bike. Do other manufacturers make such "delicate" drives? Honda Goldwing, VFR1200? Super Tenere, Triumph Tiger 1200, others?

[@josecaeiro2631]

10% of a new bike… By the time you reach 80k km, it will be much more.

[@martintownley5803]

Shocking that the drive shaft would even need replacing that often. Yamaha aren’t that weak. How can you call something a premium product that is not really fit for purpose?

[@adrianw3985]

My father in law had a 1200GS, those are nice bikes to ride. I enjoyed riding it.

[@chrisvito007]

Best Adv / dual sport channel online! Keep up the great work Ian!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks 👍

[@jameswright1797]

I can also add that if you have adaptive cruise on following a motorcycle, with speed set maybe 10 mph faster, and that motorcycle moves to the left of the lane and you are closer to the right the bike will go into "automatic passing mode" quite abruptly

[@fireball36]

'Probably the best overall motorcycle I've ever tested' - I think this sums up your review pretty well! I currently have 7 registered and rideable bikes and there's no doubt that my R1300GS is by far the best all-round bike I own. I love the thing. If I didn't have an irrational soft spot for my old GSXR-1000 the 1300 would easily be my favorite bike. By far.

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

NEVER should have sold my 06 Gixer thou… I feel the same way brother

[@DB-sd3cw]

What's your threshold for when a bike gets too big?

[@fireball36]

@@DB-sd3cwI can say this, the 1300 FEELS lighter and shorter than my F850GS did. And on my 850 I rode the WABDR, the WYBDR and the Continental Divide ride from Alberta to Mexico, dirt the entire way. For me this bike is easier to ride off road than the 850. I now have over 6000 miles on it with zero issues and it’s done a few trails including the IDBDR. So what makes a bike too big? Well, it’s a great size for an adventure bike. It’s too big for a dual sport and way too big for motocross. Choose the tool for the task you’re doing. I do adventure riding and it’s not too big.

[@davidlutton4560]

A superbly presented overview, with the bikes's most significant attributes and weaknesses, very well explained, including aspects for BMW to address. If I was fortunate enough to be in the market for a new, premium bike like the GS1300, you'd be the guy I'd like to contact for an honest opinion. Keep up the great work and I look forward to your next upload. Take care for now.

[@christopher9626]

I appreciate all the work that you have done to give us an accurate, data driven, review of the R1300GS, Ian! But, if anything, you've convinced me to get the 1250 instead. There isnt enough of an advancement to warrant the price tag and the 1250 is simply too good of a bike to pass up on the used market.

[@BigRockMoto]

Fair enough!

[@adventurebeforedementia2090]

Ian. In my opinion the GS1200 ticked most if not all of the boxes for 80% of customers and the 1250 succeeded in polishing a few “rough edges” which, I suspect most average riders weren’t too fussed about!? However, I suspect the 1250 hit the sweet spot. The 1300, although a technical step forward has now put the GS into a financial no-man’s land. Yes, the Multistrada is comparable in both tech and price but the price has now moved the customer demographic into an increasingly small segment. Add to this the “consumable” nature of the prop shaft and I suspect BMW have inadvertently disenfranchised a big customer base. As for the GSA1300…….well FUGLY doesn’t even come close!

[@philipTOMPSETT]

I’ve almost given up on BMW Motorad (i’m in Isle of Man) as I’ve been waiting for the spare key since new, Aug 2023 and a replacement head unit (so Nav can work) since April 2024. No wonder they need a 3 year warranty. 1250GS ultimate. Great vids as always. Thanks

[@xseal053]

Great review and I agree with all of it. I ordered a GS after testing riding and being surprised by how much I liked the adaptive suspension and CC. I got it just the way I wanted it, made some tweaks to optimize it for solo ADV touring and really have nothing but great things to say. It’s not a KTM500, but it the hands of a skilled rider it rips on the street and will go most places off road. I’m keeping mine.

[@papertiger795]

I think its finally settled in. That is what a GS looks like now. And thats okay.

[@JBGeoscience]

Sterling commentry with solid integrity thanks Ian on your experience with the R1300GS. The fact that you are unlikely to keep it long(er) term speaks volumes. Appreciate the efforts and commitment you make for the motorcycling community and hoping manufacturers are taking note. Thank you

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

I have multiple bikes. I was just looking at the pan America yesterday. It feels pretty good. I have not sat on a gs. I know they are very nice as well. I’d like to get down too 2 bikes. My 300l and something else. Getting a bit older. My full dress Harley is nice for long trips but suck on secondary roads where I find myself a lot these days. Still would like to have the ability for a long trip. Dealers are limited where I live. Harley or Honda it seems. I’d have to drive over 2 hours for anything else. Oh well. That’s my dilemma. Love your reviews Ian. Thanks for the hard work. It seems like you’re having fun but it is also a weight you carry because of your honesty.

[@victorp5491]

I sold my BMW r1200 rt . Made me feel free from frequent high cost basic maintenance. Expensive parts, dealers that can't schedule a repair in a reasonable time. Expensive hourly labor $ ...Sooooo the leads me to my Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro, Suzuki Dr 650 . Low cost maintenance . easy to reach the manufacturer , flexible repair options low cost parts. Never will I own a BMW. What a relief

[@MV-XD2]

The shaft recall is for all 1200/1250 watercooled bikes and is a free replacement for the lifetime of the bike. For the 1300GS, the customer pays to replace it. In terms of price it’s hard to be clear as BMW pricing has never been that transparent - for example the 1250TE model in the UK came with every extra, but the 1300 doesn’t include the “newer” features like ride height adjustment or ASA. In other territories it’s a base bike plus optional packs, so like for like is not easy. Then there are the discounts on the outgoing model making the price difference seem larger than it really is. Whichever way you look at it, it is a very sophisticated motorcycle, but it is also the equivalent cost of a pretty decent car. I no longer want to spend such huge sums on a leisure toy, so thank goodness for the rapidly expanding small to mid capacity market.

[@12masterr]

The bike will brake for you if you have the "brake assist " turned on. The seat was bad a first, but it feels a lot better now. The low beam is fantastic, but the high beam is kind of weak, and on my bike, I have to manually adjust it myself!. My bike used 750 ml of oil at 2500 miles. The seat was uncomfortable for me, because the angle of it points it down at the front. My solution was to use the " lowering pucks" they sell on amazon for the r1250gs, but installed backward, so they raise the front of the seat.is perfect now!

[@BigRockMoto]

thank you for sharing

[@NachoGS]

@@BigRockMoto the BMW tall comfort seat is the way to go if you want that extra 1250-like comfort. And the bike will still be accessible for a rider of your height thanks to the adaptive height control. A whole new spectrum of configuration possibilities.

[@Ijusthopeitsquick]

Bean?

[@12masterr]

@Ijusthopeitsquick yes mister internet police, my bike is super special like you, and have beans.

[@Ijusthopeitsquick]

@@12masterr Good to know.

[@carloalbertoranzani8041]

Shaft drive, it was obviously a consumable item on the long run, and the error was not officially addressing the “issue” until now. That made them replace our 1250’s drives for free for life, because it wasn’t explicit when we bought them, but it’s understandably not an option on newer models

[@colinclugston4757]

In the uk bmw changed the maintenance schedule, they sent a letter with the changes to the 1250 gs&gsa. The shaft problem is now to be charged every 36,000 miles for the life of the bike & bmw will cover the costs . Can’t remember it off hand but something like I said above .

[@antonoat]

Your bike looks great Ian with the extras you have fitted! Really interesting listening to your opinions re it's ownership. The shaft drive is suddenly very concerning, if it's service life has been or is being reduced to a certain limit then BMW need to rethink it's viability or come up with a more reasonable solution for replacement. I'm not a lover of chain drive like most riders but it's reliable mostly and everyone knows it's limitations and service life, chains and sprockets are considered consumables and for most parts they are considered reasonably priced. All the best from the UK, Cheers!

[@rbrown1339]

Thanks Ian. Fair evaluation.

[@RichDunn]

Replacing the drive internal components was always a maintenance requirement, it's just that dealers didn't tend to do them unless the customer asked, and that was required were more frequently than on the 1300. The 1300 has a recall for a defective Relay, along with the panniers/top case (Shad) being on stop sale.

[@jesucristo1870]

Congratulations 🎊 🎉 you're the first to know that my family and I are currently accepting donations of 6 month old bmw r1300gs models. We can re-home your bike and let it carry new generations around the world 🌎 we can be on your doorstep faster than you can dry your riding boots. See you soon 😊 keep making the good videos 😘

[@CAJLAMB]

So much great info on this channel, thank-you! I’m in Australia and have just had the 1st service done on my Trophy. The 1st service here is not free. The consumables & labour added up to AUD$500 (USD$330) which is decent in comparison to other bikes I’ve owned - my Multistrada 1198 services were $$$$!

[@gillianbrodie6807]

Firstly, thanks a lot for your videos. 😃👍 They're great. I would love to see lots of videos on the GS 1300 as I'm going to buy one, and I think your one looks great! I also would like back lit buttons etc. and a proper rear brake light!! I can't see why anyone would want the current system as a replacement to that. Keep up the good work! 😃👍🤗

[@Ole.Schultz]

I am keeping my 2021 R1250GS. Free drive shaft replacement every 60.000 km

[@davidrussell6544]

Thanks, as always, for the good and honest feedback. For me, the series on this bike has been especially helpful as I am considering trading my 2016 GS 1200 in for a 2025 GS 1300 next year.

[@aao331]

A shaft drive for the 1200GS can be had for as little as 150usd its actually cheaper than a f800 transmission.

[@rd4k04]

Honda figured out how to make a driveshaft last 300k on a gold wing. Why can't BMW make one last longer than 48?

[@jonathanbonner1672]

Previous owner of a 2023 f750gs. You CAN NOT get a service manual for any new production BMW motorcycles. I had to email BMW Munich to get a special software flash JUST FOR KPH ON THE HUD. I sold the bike after 8 moths of ownership.

[@vplph]

The driveshaft on BMW motorbikes was introduced in 1923 (R32)... Making it a wearable item in 2023 is a great way to celebrate a century of progress, no?

[@TheLastCrankers]

The more I look into the GS, the more convinced I am that the 1200GS is the one to have

[@jjjjjjjjrifufjssjosskenf]

I was going to say the same about my 1250

[@green_genie]

I still have a 2008 oil cooled 1200gs nearly sold it a few times but every new model that comes out makes me appreciate the old girl more

[@scottfyfe1369]

@@green_geniesame, and still lighter.

[@redman2751]

Hey are you planning on doing a review on the new GS models with the ASA system? I'd love to hear your opinion on that system. I currently own a 22 model year R1250 GSA and love it, I got it thanks to your reviews. Now after owning it I feel your opinions of the bike were spot on so thank you. With that said I'm sort of liking the idea of the new GSA with the ASA on it. Especially for my riding style but not sure. I'm on a wait list at the dealer for when comes in for a test ride.

[@marcelodc8801]

I fertinf old....53.....one big trip a year....15000km. i have a Gsa and a Xtz250 and more and more i discoverinf that is not about the bike. Its ok to feel all the power...etc...but motorcycling is more than that. I went with a Gs and with Xtz to Ushuaia and rhe two was amazing and different. I don t need to always change the bike anymore. Mu last 2 bikes i rode more than 100000km. Its good to broke the chain of the addict to change bike all thw time. But this its just to me....anyone has to decide your path....

[@markodom1974]

Thanks for the content. I have the same bike and the seat isn’t just bad it’s inexcusable. At $29k a miss like this should never happen. It is also horrible in a crosswind. So bad I don’t see myself buying another BMW.

[@ccwzagnut]

Your videos are always great, but I found this to be overly negative compared to my experience with the 1300. This bike rules against anything else I've owned and is a joy to ride. I've started riding more now because I like this bike so much. Lights? Final drive replacement at 50k? To each his own, but these aren't problems for daily riding; when you get to 50k reassess. If I'm as happy then as I am now riding it, I'll pay the $1500. But that's a future-problem. Anyway - thanks for the insights. 🙂

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks for sharing

[@ferkuzuel]

I saw a video from ' Life is a ride motorcycle gear' where he reported the problem with the electronic suspension failure and how to detect the issue, also looks like some of the viewers also had the same problem with their 1300gs, but looks bmw hasn't announced any recall yet.

[@barnstorm100]

nice when you know the roads.

[@Beta200F]

I’ve been watching your videos since I bought a 690 in 2020 or 2021. Main thing is just don’t talk about the business side or defend it much. I’ve started back watching after not being into bike reviews for a while and it seems like it’s regularly mentioned now on this channel. I just watch for your take on bikes and stuff. Whatever you’re getting paid for really isn’t my business and am just digging around on KZbin looking at bike stuff. If the review sounds bias then it does but generally they seem objective regardless of the financials. Most of the observations you make can’t really be biased anyway. They’re just observations not marketing narratives.

[@Porsche996driver]

You’re getting a lot with this GS. A legendary bike with the latest advanced systems. I like those forged wheels too. My only experience is putting them on a 911 which really decreased the unsprung weight and everything was sharper-quicker. Haven’t heard much about shaftdrive issues in the past - maybe due to the increased power? Also, I wouldn’t be surprised if they add in the proper rear brake light again next year. Germans are very big on safety obviously so I’m not sure what they were thinking there.

[@MRGS48]

After I have owned the first 1250GS HP and without any off road experience for a little under 4 yrs and moving onto the 1250GSA Trophy I believe that taking the smaller GS off road is the best GS you can ride off road for what it is. The GSA can easily go off road (Ive done it again with no experience) going over ruts and stuff needs someone with quite the experience/skill for off road. I didnt drop her so kudos to me I guess😂 Live my GS but the GSA is more like it CAN go off road but Id rather not kinda bike. Thats MY experience with both off them. An expensive toy yes but a very good at that… Thank you Ian and gotta remind you that the TOUR package in Greece from example with an extra tag of $1000 gets you ALL three piece luggage where here the Stealerships are charging north of $2500+…😳

[@kevinlaprocina1861]

Everything you have said is spot on! When I was in the market for my 1300, I specked the bike out comparable to a 1250. The 1250 was 24,500 and the 1300 was only about $1300 more. Hmmmmm I wonder if that was intentional???

[@jamescurrie1285]

Excellent info and explanation 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@deltaskyhawk]

Nothing is "FREE"!

[@new_story]

Just tell us please - is Multustrada v4s better then new 1300gs? You start talking about it and forgot.

[@jhonnydumeny9816]

Another great video Ian. What bike do you think you’re getting next? Maybe the BMW 1250 RT.

[@groverw7507]

Touratech upper and lower bars look sweet! Are they and the other options included in your 31k cost?

[@craigg4246]

Wow, new $1500 driveshaft every 48,000 miles? You gotta be kidding me! The more I learn about BMW’s, the more I like my 1050 Vstrom…

[@GCTO239]

Agreed

[@toddsorel-pg4hr]

Exactly. I put well over 100,000 miles on each of three older BMWs. Why is it getting more and more difficult for them to make durable drive shafts? Meanwhile, I can stretch the chain life of some of my other bikes to 48,000 miles with replacement costing me $100.

[@craigg4246]

@@toddsorel-pg4hr i just replaced my chain and sprockets on my Vstrom. It cost $400, doing it myself. Not $100. I think it’s been awhile since you have bought a chain and sprockets… but my OEM chain went 22,500 miles. So roughly half what BMW’s shaft will cost per mile

[@GCTO239]

@@toddsorel-pg4hr easy answer: greed!

[@LMO169]

Motoscan is a cheaper alternative to GS-911 for android phones only. Doesn't limit the number of bikes registered to the account. Software is 50 and the scanner is another 50

[@GSAirTherapy]

Most of the reasons you noted, are why I’m staying with my ‘21 GSA 40th Ed. The 1300 GS isn’t appealing, and the 1300 GSA…I guess when I’m ready to get a new bike (7’ish years down the road), I won’t have any other choices.

[@JS-nf1sn]

BMW does not sell the service manual for any bike starting a year or two ago. That's a great bike, I have two BMWs, but I'm going to stay the course with my Tenere 1200 for ADV as it's bulletproof and cheap to own, buy (used), and maintain. The GS outfitted how you'd want it is a huge chunk of cash. Maybe I'll win the lottery.

[@johnmacdonald1878]

If you have a 1200 or 1250 GS or GSA (I think RT as well), There is a recall on the driveshaft they will replace drive shaft at 60000Km, and continue to replace, every 60000 k (I guess it was supposed to last for life of bike). The new bike its on you.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Ian I was working on same type video…as you know Im not a fan of the 1300…but personal preference…since I own a 21’ GSA (60K) and 23’ GS (2.7K) miles respectively BMW replaced my GSA drive shaft at 52K they are suppose to inspect at 37K and replace….I was told by my dealer that after every 37K miles BMW will replace the drive shaft for FREE on 23’ models and older…24’s and 1300 it is on the owner….again thats from my dealer. It’s expensive to operate the BMW’s I know trust me…hahah….thanks for sharing and great info!!!…maybe I should be your bike..ha!!

[@PisgahGravelProject]

Great content. Major let down from BMW on the controlls not being back lit. That is wildly unacceptable imo. I never would have even thought to ask. I figure a premium priced motorcycle would include every premium feature and oem accessory

[@jameswright1797]

I bought my 1300 in Canada (first one registered in this country ) but had the break in service done in St Louis MO while travelling. It was not free. Free break in service was never mentioned to me at any time

[@slamboy66]

I installed Hyper-Lites Red 8 LED Flashing Brake lights under my top case. Flash's then goes solid.

[@_Makanko_]

Its crazy to me how against the tide BMW is. A lot of pressure is being put on companies to have longer support and better/easier repairability on their products. I really want a service manual available.

[@ADV_Agenda]

The one thing I didn't like about the last gen BMW was the front suspension. Did they improve the suspension on the new model?

[@1993kramer]

I have to customize every seat and my 1300gs is no different. Comfort wasn’t bad but the forward lean is a no go for me. Similar to the Tiger 1200. My Ktm was the absolute worst, even the “comfort” seat I bought as an accessory.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing!

[@chrisbrown6059]

You are correct, the stock seat hurts! I ordered a Corbin. Let me know if you’d like to know the result.

[@ruudruud8758]

25K km on my 1300 now. It’s my 9th GS and on a functional level probably the best one. I find the riding experience…sterile, where’s the joy? The front “sports” brake is disappointing, it needs some heat braked into it before it really bites. Talking about build quality: plastic pedals, really??? I’m on my second high comfort seat, the first had a broken seat pan. Seat comfort is BAD. The electronic suspension(sports suspension, I’m 6.6 ) is starting to get softer. Pint on part of the frame is scoffed by mij knees. Maintenance is more expensive than my previous 1250’s. Will buy a new bike for 2026(this one will have done 60K by then) but I wonder if it is going be a GS again.

[@Originalsinn_AO]

Hey Ian, Thanks for the in-depth 6 month owner review. While larger ADV bikes aren't my bag, I can totally get why people love them and get them, especially for Adventure Touring. How do you feel the accessibility is for home maintenance and simple repairs or installing addons? Is this something you'd be comfortable wrenching on at home and using a printed (or online) manual, or would you still bring it to the dealer?

[@TheHooligan-5]

Hey Ian, I have a question for you. My better half is trying to move from a Tiger 850 sport to a GS bike. We do 70/30 road/ off-road travel. She has ridden a Honda 650 dirt bike in the past. She tried the 900 and it was too top heavy. What bike would you recommend? 1250 or 1300? GSA or GS. She is 5'10". We were planning on the 1250 GSA Rally, but I'm not sure if that makes sense 😊 Hope to hear from you, Ian!

[@butlersg1]

Excellent channel

[@Golfshot762]

It looks great except that headlight, what were they thinking? Put the old one on it.

[@dcmsr5141]

BMW’s are maintenance Beast and to consider the Drive shaft as a consumable is almost criminal, what is criminal is the inability to have access to a manual. After my own research I find Honda Goldwing although expensive upfront is actually cheaper in the long run with cost of ownership .

[@TooCheezeyTV]

Recently came across your page and love your content! I would absolutely love to hear you break down the Moto Guzzi v85 adv. really considering getting one but I can’t find anyone that will give it a real off road test. I’m between the Moto Guzzi, desertX and transalp. Love the channel! Keep it up!

[@mickfisher7513]

get transalp

[@advredbikes]

Thanks again for that great information, very interesting to hear about changing a driveshaft. As you have said not many owners are gonna have a bike for that long but a number of people do so what would the cost be for labor? You’d have to factor that into your ownership of the bike

[@TheStammeringBiker]

First service in the UK isn’t free unfortunately (by default), some people manage to negotiate it as part of their deal but it’s not automatically free for us over here 😢 I’ve had to pay for the first 600mile service on all 3 of my BMW’s from different dealers. Love the videos!

[@scootjockey]

On the 1000ps KZbin vlog it shows them riding the 1300 gs in Austria off road, and a simple fall over broke the gear shift ,finding out that such gearshift is made of plastic !

[@GCTO239]

Yeah, I saw it as well. What an embarrassment!

[@markland8588]

I have owned a R1300gs for 7 months now and find the gearbox to be the worst part of the bike. I currently own a R1250r and a R100gs and both of these have a better shift in my opinion. The 1300 is clunky and stiff in the shift, the dealer tells me they are all like that and the 1250 has the better box, what have you found? Cheers Mark Australia

[@DavidRodriguesOfficial_]

Hi, is possible to have a review on a 1300 GS with ASA? Thank you. Greetings from Portugal

[@markbertoli4173]

I have a question about the engine noise of the 1300 went on cruise control between 60 and 70 miles an hour and sixth gear. I get a real drone sound that is quite loud. I immediately went back to my 1250 and the bike is very calm at that same speed. For long distances, I don’t know that the 1300 would be my choice. Has the motor got more quiet as time has gone on and you’ve broken it in? To categorize the two different motors I think the 1250 is quite calm where the 1300 seems to be more excitable and as many people have said more of a sport bike feel.

[@Taz368]

Regarding the driveshaft change. The driveshaft is improved compared to the 1250. Now, considering that for most owners, the bike will be out of warranty, one could simply make the decision not to proceed with the change and take the small risk of failure.

[@hunkyleepickle]

Sorry, that’s not better than having lifetime inspection and free replacement on the 1200/1250. Any mechanical part has some risk of failure, this part has a history of greater than avg, and lifetime care by BMW is far better than shelling out huge money out of warranty for any failure. I’ve been quoted at least 1700$ just parts for a 1300 shaft replacement btw.

[@Taz368]

​@hunkyleepickle I never said it is better than having lifetime warranty and replacement. However the 1250 has been out since 2019 and the lifetime replacement came in effect in 2023.

[@hunkyleepickle]

@@Taz368 the vast majority of boxers from back to 2014 and before never had any issues with their driveshaft for the life the vehicle. Now 2014’s and up get free lifetime care. The 1300, every owner is on the hook for any failure or replacement. Both events have always been rare, but one costs me a shit load.

[@Taz368]

@hunkyleepickle Maybe, but the driveshaft on the air-cooled GSs had a lot less power and torque to handle.

[@yossibonomo9647]

Would be helpful if you could compare the off-road capabilities to the 1250 and how the driving modes are different if they are.

[@maciejaszemberg2241]

Hi. Really nice overview. What tires do you have?

[@BigRockMoto]

Motoz GPS

[@jasgsxr2726]

I have no interest in this bike, but I enjoy your video's, thanks Ian.

[@ex0b1t]

Any advice on a custom seat or accessory to make it more comfortable for long distance?

[@ahmeda.3198]

Also, with the rise adjustment, can you disable it lowering itself while at a stop sign?

[@danielbarel]

Great and helpful information! Thank you. So after owning the GS for 6 months… if you were to choose today between it or the V4 Rally (assuming you’d be doing the same on/off road like in the V4 Rally launch), which one would you choose???

[@BigRockMoto]

id' honestly have to coin flip, i love them both

[@danielbarel]

@@BigRockMoto I think the Multi wins on beauty and the GS on offroadiness …. Let’s see on which I get the better deal ;)

[@User_cc]

Why did you delete last video about reviews?

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

In my opinion, Ian has quality character that does the talking. Viewers and manufacturers have seen his many reviews and believe this channel is trustworthy.

[@realcundo]

Re drive shaft, I have a R1200R in the UK and I had mine replaced free of charge. They put a new leaflet/schedule in the owners manual with new item "at 36k miles replace cardan shaft". From what they told me, for R1200 and R1250 this is free of charge. Don't know what happens at 72k service, whether it needs replacing and who pays for it.

[@samhill3496]

RTW motorcycle off the showroom floor. Very few can say that. You get what you pay for, I have that much in my Yamaha Tenere 700 getting it up to the level I want for RTW travel. Over double the retail price in accessories. My BMW's, pretty much get on and go. I spring them to my load. Very few inexpensive accessories.

[@jaytownjunkyardfiles1999]

Is it possible for you to do a comparison of all fuel injected V-Twin Dualsport/Adventure bikes? I'm going in circles trying to justify one over the other or one over a parallel twin and afraid I'll miss out on something because I bought the wrong bike due to lack of information.

[@ccwzagnut]

Funny - I find the 1300 GS seat MILES better than the 1250. I guess we have different asses.

[@adinovak2352]

So do i

[@xseal053]

@@adinovak2352 Agree. I’ve ridden every gen of GS in the last decade, this was the first one I wanted to own.

[@halfcabnut321]

Me as well , the seat just fits me better than my old 1250.

[@AkansasRIDER]

Ian, you didn't comment on the higher engine / mechanical noise, other KZbinrs have even said they're selling thier 1300 over that issue specifically. Did you not find it to be an annoyance?

[@ahmeda.3198]

When you say those wheels handle better, do you mean for people who go off road, or for standard freeway riding or curves, etc, on the street?

[@adrianpineda621]

Motorcycle builders only build a seat good enough to get it out the door and dealers know test riders are very unlikely to test ride a bike far enough to consider seat comfort in a purchase. I have had 3 seats made for my BMW’s. I love the bikes for thousand mile a day rides, but an aftermarket seat is required.

[@max___power]

The only thing I havent seen is anyone testing the radar cruise control with other motorcycles in front. Have you tested this? Did it work?

[@nkwd007]

How would you rate this GS against 2024 base model Africatwin please?

[@JustinRepo29]

I'm the person who bent the front wheel. But, to be fair, the ant was frickin huge.

[@JohnL-qx4mi]

Maybe you may sell it because you are concerned with the adaptive vehicle high control "reliability issues", also need to review asap the adventure version, which you make keep because of that automated shift assistant ;-) Regarding the VHC, there is a UK guy who had some serious issue with this option (bike bouncing all around). Luckily, I didn't go for it. Did you encounter any issue with yours?

[@jamesthompson6723]

How many miles do you have on the GS? I ask because your comment about the lack of backlit controls being inexcusable seems a bit dramatic...lol I mean, I have 7500 miles on my GS since I picked it up 4/24/24, and I don't look at the buttons to operate them. I understand that at this level of motorcycle , it is something you would think would be obvious, but is it really needed as you basically claim? Also , I have had many motorcycles. My 21 GSA I traded for the 1300 had 36k miles. It was the first bike I didn't feel I needed to change the seat. And this includes bikes like Goldwings. After 7500 miles on my 1300, I feel the same way. So maybe I just have a easier to please posterior...lol But that flies in the face of me having spent thousands of dollars for seats on other bikes, IDK.

[@simonrichardson3167]

The main buttons (ignition/turn signals) are second nature, albeit I don't ride at night, how many riders do suspect very few. Non issue for me. Seat I find ok for longer rides but not overly plush, I find myself standing up on the pegs at times.

[@jamesthompson6723]

@simonrichardson3167 I stand from time to time too, but not anymore than I did on the 1250GSA.

[@johnaustin2292]

Just had my first service done. Definitely not free in Charlotte, cost me $580!

[@terryomara9403]

Great vid

[@Wollestar]

I have the bike for 2.5 months now and put 10,000km (6,200 miles) on it and so far absolutely zero issues, which of course is nothing special. There are very little things I don´t like about the bike. Most things are just great and I love the bike for them. It is a bike to stay in my garage for a longer time. There are two things I don´t like. The seating comfort is really not good. For what this bike is supposed to be, it is pretty bad to be honest. I will look into a solution now. I have had multiple 8-10h days and once 13.5h in the saddle and that is absolutely no fun. I am a bit younger for a GS rider at 34 so I just push thru it. But realistically speaking, after an hour I could easily have a break from riding already. My bottom starts to hurt and my knees aren´t really happy either. And that is with the high comfort seat and the enduro package footpegs at 190cm (6ft 2in). And the original cases. In 2025 they are supposed to be available. That is simply not okay for me. Not at a price of close to 1000€. I went with the Touratech case holders and the EMD Adventure Gear soft paniers now. I am very happy with those and after 3000 km and a good mix of weather, I can´t say anything negative about them. Off road I can´t say much jet. That I will do next year.

[@henrymardirossian9390]

Hi Ian, let me start by saying Thank you for your KZbin Cahnnel. Love your Honesty & content. Question; If I want to order the Cool Cover Seat Covers for my 2022 BMW GSA for both the rider & the Passenger Seats, Do I just click on the link you provided & you will be compensated for the referral (I Hope which is well deserved) and also, can I use YOU to get the Part numbers I need to order from them? Thanks in advance.