BMW F850GS ADVENTURE 2019 REVIEW

After riding it for a week or so, here is my BMW F850GS Adventure 2019 Review.
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[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I loved the F850GSA much more than you did Bruce - contrary to your review I found the power fine but I agree on the weight and balance - no advantage with the 850 over the 1200/1250 there (the boxer engined bikes do hold their weight lovely and low).....another reason to go for the 850 over the bigger bike is of course cost! I don't know about you but I can't afford £18K on a new 1250GSA, the 850GSA has all the same bells and whistles and is a big saving.....I really liked it and am hoping to get another go on one soon! Differences of opinion aside, great vid as ever sir!

[@teapotone]

Cheers bud 👍

[@donovanwylieful]

I agree with MissendenFlyer. The thing you have to remember is the 1250 Adventure is way heavier than the 850 Adverture.... you get 300 miles off the tank, it has off potential, it is more touring oriented than the former F800. Where KTM and Yam are making light adverture bikes that really are for off road with limited touring, the new F850 GSA , really sits in the middle of these new adv bikes, and the bigger 1250 gsa. Incidentally, I was a f800 gsa rider for several years, then went to 1200 GS, then went back to F800, and got the F850 gsa.... completely love it, despite the slight weight issue, but balances better i felt than Triumph Tigers....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@donovanwylieful ....having had one on loan for the last week, I can tell you the F850GSA doesn't feel lighter than the 1250 when you're moving it around....the only bike I've ever had where the sidestand has sunk into my tarmac driveway (on a cold day before you ask!!)....feels like a very heavy beast to me.....

[@teapotone]

Yep that’s what I found and said in the vid, the smaller 850 actually felt heavier and heftier to lug around than the bigger 1200/1250’s?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@teapotone Agreed - a nice bike but lardy...

[@drewiliffe4855]

A couple of reasons to buy the 850 instead of the 1250 - offroad the 21" front wheel rides over tree branches, rocks and holes better. The slimmer engine allows the 850 to get between obstacles eg large rocks that the 1250 would not get through. If you only ride on road then the 1250 would be better but off road the 850 does have advantages.

[@davereinhart9933]

Agreed. I made the switch from the 1200 to 850 for similar reasons and I am absolutely in love of the 850 GSA for my uses. It is quite a bit more fun than the big bike also.

[@calebhughes9443]

Love my 850 switching it from a 17 tooth to 15 tooth front sprocket can't wait!!!

[@davereinhart9933]

Just switched from a 1200 to a 850 GSA. I ride about 50/50 off road/ road. I bought it because of the lack of mass at my legs, a 21" front tire, felt more manuverable and $8,000. It was the right choice for me.

[@darekvans4592]

Do you feel big difference on the street between 1200 and 850 GSA?

[@RobWormaldPlus]

I bought an F850GS, and three weeks later traded it in for a R1250GSA - and I completely agree with you. The 1250 is feels much, much lighter, easier to shift around. The 850 felt top-heavy and much heavier. Can't imagine how the 850GSA feels...

[@dantedias4064]

In my country , that bike costs exactly half the price of the 1250 adventure . That's reason enough for me . You can buy the bike and spend the rest exploring

[@paul_dobson]

Great review thank you, as a new rider i opted for the 850GS over the 1250GS - as tempting as the 1250 was i thought it wise to learn my trade first...

[@teapotone]

Yep that’s fair enough, welcome to the biking family, stay safe 👍

[@barkinsahin]

I have ridden the old f800gs for 6 years. When I traded it for a 2015 R1200GS LC, I realised how much it is easier to ride the 1200GS than f800.

[@jefta88]

Just ordered one. 40 years Edition in black and yellow. Will be in my garage in about a month. Can't wait. I had 1200 GSA before it and I decided to downsize for several reasons. On my 1200 I had drive shaft problems where water came in differential and completely destroyed it. It was 2000 euro fix, and I had to get the knew drive shaft. I wanted to avoid that, so I went with chain drive. Second reason is 21 inch front wheel. Third reason is the width of bike low down. I was always afraid on my 1200 that if I drop it it will damage the engine even with crash bars, so 850 is a little more protected in that way. I like extra range that you get on GSA models. I will always chose that instead of normal GS. To bad that front forks aren't adjustable, but that can also be sorted out with aftermarket parts. Here deference in price is more than 8000 euros. For that difference I can travel and ride my bike for 2 years... Great video btw.

[@MAPPED]

Bruce, I totally agree with all your points in the comparison between the 1250/1200 and the 850/800 - I felt the same when I took the 850gs out! Great vid as always!

[@teapotone]

Thanks bud

[@neilb4297]

Agreed Bruce, you can’t beat the boxer for heaps of grunt and perfect weight distribution. Still top of the pile for me.

[@danielmo6738]

Where is offroad test...wtf..?

[@teapotone]

I can’t ride off-road for toffee Daniel, there’d be no point in me reviewing a bike for that as I couldn’t do it any justice! 😬

[@danielmo6738]

@@teapotone your videos is good, or GS is „Gelände/Straße“...road test is not justice for this bike.

[@villaincatcher]

Great review and yes, I see your point about the big GS comparison re weight, handling and power over the 850. You and TMF might be on to something there.

[@CHuzz7777]

Good review, I’ve just tested one of these and opted for a nearly new 1200 instead - a much better bike all round. For me the 850 engine would have given me enough power but I found the bars a bit vibey and I actually found the slow speed fuelling poor. The suspension in the 1200 was a revelation, I’d forgotten just how good it is.

[@garywalk1969]

Always great to see another good straight talking vid from you bud.

[@teapotone]

Cheers Gary, it’s the only way I know 😬

[@garywalk1969]

@@teapotone wouldn't want you any other way 👍

[@chrislecouteur2360]

Bruce I'm 5'7 I got a low 1200gs love it

[@IanWheldale]

I bought a Drift Ghost X last year purely to use on the bike based on your experience with the Ghost S. Very happy with it, OK it's 1080p max but for £80 it's great value and the 5-hour battery life is a blessing.

[@teapotone]

I didn’t go for the GhostX as it’s only 30fps - unfortunately these days you need to film in 60fps to get the best kind of quality footage that gives you some scope in the edit. But yeah, Drift have nailed the battery life 👍

[@thelikeablerider8800]

Great review Bruce! I agree with you on how it sits in the market, you gotta go with the big bike, unless budget is an issue of course.

[@BulldogGaz]

Great video again Bruce, just love your honesty and blunt opinions definitely legitimate. Hope you can over this year sometime be nice to meet up again, Thank you for the mention and Link 👍😉

[@teapotone]

Cheers Gaz, yeah I’d love to come over again this year if I can. As usual time is a very precious commodity this year, but if I can do it, I’ll be there 👍

[@markkennedy2521]

Good honest review as always Bruce, totally agree with your thoughts on this bikes place in the market?? Maybe BMW are trying to create one, who knows? Keep up the great work!

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Good review Bruce. I agree with you. The other bias I have against the 850 besides not understanding where it fits is its Chinese made engine...I just can't see past that for a pricey bike...irrational I know as Q C looks good enough and less problems reported over the ktm 790. Compared with the Triumph 800 tiger it feels sluggish, tall and not as planted and has less character. The engine isn't a patch on fhe triple. You have an island drop in named after you😂...you have to visit! An 850 boxer would have made more sense...in the good old days I had both a 650 boxer and a 1000. The little one had all the good attributes of the bigger bike without some if the bad points....are BMW missing a trick here?

[@teapotone]

That’s a good point, an 850 boxer engine would be great 👍

[@beemer4950]

I rode the 1250 GSA and 850 GSA back to back a few days ago and have to say after having a number of 1200 GSA's in the past I actually preferred the 850. It was more fun and I found it more agile and engaging to ride. The big GS still feels vague to me when cornering. Giving the 850 a good rev was giving reasonable pace and plenty enough for UK roads. Just pricing it up a full spec ones (nearly new) is 5k cheaper that is hard to ignore. I think the 850's are not selling so well so there are bargains to be had. Also everyone has a 1200 or a 1250 - nice to be a bit different.

[@peterlewis968]

I found the review of the GSA 850 a little disappointing, it was more of a comparison with the 1200/1250 GS than an objective view of the 850. If you have had a 1200 GS nothing much compares!! Just my opinion, for what it is worth.

[@teapotone]

No that’s true Peter, but what else can I compare it to really when the only thing close I’ve ridden IS the 1200 and 1250, and that’s what people who watch the channel regularly are used to me riding these days. But I get your point. 👍

[@Coldgecko]

Dude, you keep pushing the R1200GSA over the f850GSA. I have both. Why? Well, I took my R1200GSA on an 17,000 km ride to South America with 6 guys -- and right now, I'm in a hotel on a 12,000 km ride. I live in the USA. 1200 is awesome and so comfy and everything you said, except I'm only 5'9" and 175 lbs. The bike sucks for smaller guys on OFF ROAD riding. South America is full of gravel, sand, mud and I dropped my bike probably 30 times. On roads, its a dream. 3 guys had F800GS/A and they loved them as much as the R1200 guys. Ok, so I'm off on a 25,000 km ride in August around the top of Europe, Russia, China, Laos, Thailand... to Bali. I can't take the huge and massive R1200 again. So I bought a lighter F850GSA and weight makes a huge difference to most people. Maybe not a Dude at 6'3". It's all about weight on sketchy roads for smaller guys.

[@Gaz1za21]

Spot on Bruce, walking the GS (Standard not ADV) around it was un-weilding and trouble to get on the center stand as the balance is all front heavy; going to keep the Boxer a while longer, unless Jack can do me an upgrade deal on the 1250!!!

[@teapotone]

Good luck! I’ve tried 😉👍

[@Arachnoid_of_the_underverse]

Good review Bruce I went from the old 800 to the 1200 GS which still is a superb and comfortable ride.You should get over to Sweet lamb and try the KTM 690 off road,a great and nimble bike to ride.

[@mikedignum1868]

Bought my first ever GS in Feb (1250 Exclusive) after years of poo-pooing them I have to say i now understand why owners love them. It does sneak up on you..Grin factor 9/10. Did consider the 850GS but it has a chain and diving f/end and the small screen made me stay with the bigger sister.

[@teapotone]

Yeah absolutely Mike, it’s only once you ride the big tractor that you appreciate just how capable a machine they are 👍

[@mikedignum1868]

@@teapotone Ever thought of doing a review of Job bikes and why they have those bikes? Or would they not allow that?? Last time i was in a job garage i saw three BMWs (RT/RS & Electric) not counting the Piaggio three-wheelers.

[@teapotone]

We used to ride 1200RT’s in Diplomatic Protection, but then went to 800’s as some people complained they were too big! 🙄 They’re no good for what we need, so looks like we are going back to the 1200RT’s again all going well. Not sure if I’d be allowed to review them???

[@ItsBeenDanBefore]

I think (and this is probably a really shoddy guess) this bike is BMW's answer to an A2 friendly touring machine with BMW quality. In essence, for one price you're getting two bikes over four years, both of which have the same feature set, quickshifter and autoblipper and grunty engine but with a bit less poke. It's like how Yamaha are the go-to manufacturer for an A2 friendly naked bike (MT 07), Suzuki has the A2 friendly supermoto (DRZ 400), Kawasaki has the A2 friendly sportsbike (Ninja 650, 400) and Honda has the A2 friendly commuter (NC750). Every manufacturer wants a consistent customer, even with the shoddy licences we have in the UK, so they show what they're best at (with the exception of Suzuki) to draw in customers

[@teapotone]

Good point 👍

[@12masterr]

Having a 2014 1200gs,and now also a 2019 850 gsa, I think people are missing the point here. Is not obviously powerful as the 1250, but the size,weight and power is almost perfect,a least here in the states, were is a lot of open road. And the difference in weight with the 1250 is 50 pds by the way.

[@teapotone]

Yes but it didn’t feel any lighter to me as the weight distribution is higher compared to the bigger bikes. To me it was slower, less powerful, not as well balanced, had a horrendous front end and just didn’t have the finesse or ‘feel’ you get from the bigger, boxer engine machines. But each to their own 👍

[@12masterr]

@@teapotone I paid $17000 for my fully loaded 19 850 gsa,cheapest 1250 gas around here is $24000,so for $7000 less I'm very happy! And still have my 2014 1200 gs!. The 850 have about 40 hp less than the 1250 so again it will be slower,but I dont need to be the biggest baddest fastest guy in the neighborhood anymore! Good review! And I dont know how long you benn riding, but for me is 40 years,some roadracing and motocross too,and I can tell you the balance of the 850 is very close to the 1250. The 1250 engine is not siting lower than the 850 by any means,and the 7.9 gallons of fuel on top move the center of gravity maybe more than you think. The point I want to make is that both bikes are very well balanced, and familiarity to the bigger one make you believe is better balanced than the smaller one!. Now,I love both bikes,buy my 1200 is already at the 50k miles mark,so is going to be sold.take care my friend.

[@Dukevares1]

@@12masterr have you taken the 850 gsa 2up? If yes, what are your thoughts?

[@12masterr]

@@Dukevares1 ues,I have it 2 up with luggage, in the mountains, runs fine,is obviously not as powerful as the 1200,but still plenty of power to go, 850 is still a big engine, and vibrates less than my 2014 gs.

[@Dukevares1]

@@12masterr awesome, picking up my 850 GSA Friday from Texas and riding to Cali to ship home to Hawaii. My gal is only a buck 10. 850gsa will be perfect here on the big island.

[@jonboy-kb1jj]

The only thing stopping me getting the big GS is getting that boxer engine through my gate! I could alter the gate and fence but it’s a lot of faffing about so after lots of test riding of various big bikes I’m edging towards the new Kawasaki Versys 1000, took one out yesterday, absolutely loved it!

[@teapotone]

I’ve never ridden one actually, but heard good things 👍

[@craigmorrison7937]

Top review Bruce, agree totally as you need that initial grunt 👍

[@teapotone]

Cheers Craig 👍

[@richardd1350]

I have an F800GS and I agree, it's a pain to move off the bike. Its not a million miles away in terms of weight to the 1200 and the 21" front wheel makes it a bit of a mare.

[@twogotikitouring6940]

Enjoy the solo course Bruce. Mr Elvidge said you had one in the pipeline. Best course in the job 👍

[@teapotone]

Cheers 👍

[@robkyle]

Thanks for the comparison Bruce. I was thinking of the 850 for weight and handling but you just dispelled that. I guess if I change from my Tiger 1050 it will be for a 1200/1250.

[@teapotone]

Thanks Rob, is always suggest you test ride for yourself, but it’d be the 1200/1250 all day long for me 👍

[@deanchild9848]

Price ?maybe 18K verses 12k ?

[@teapotone]

Yep, I mention that in the vid too. There’s a big difference in price for the two models, but there’s also a huge difference in performance all round too 👍

[@backwheelbob46rr]

Boxer all day long 👍 and spec'd right the 850 is nrly 15k. get a used 1200 and love it. Better bike in every way

[@jamesfisher1827]

You’ll love the job bike course, if you love motorcycling it’s great. (Thought you would have done it before now.) You’ll probably have a moment where you’ll smile that someone is actually paying you to do the course. Just a shame they don’t do the loose surface appreciation day anymore. ☹️

[@teapotone]

Ha Ha cheers bud, really looking forward to it 👍

[@adv_rider]

Nice video. The thing you are missing about the difference between 850 and 1250/1200 is the off road ability. The 850 family is more off road oriented with the front 21” tire and non telelever suspension. You guys in the UK ride mostly on road and commute. Other places in the world where they ride more off road get the big picture with these bikes. Personally if i want to ride mostly on road i would get the 1250 and if someone spends more time off road and in the desert 850 is the bike to ride as the previous owner of both bikes i can say 850/800gs is much better off road. 1200gs has become so road oriented that people already forget what GS stands for!

[@teapotone]

Hi Hadi, I’m not missing it at all, I even mention that some would say the smaller bike is better for off-road. But I countered that with my thoughts on it - that the bigger bikes are better balanced and easier to manoeuvre (for me), so in my opinion the bigger bike is still the better option for me personally. Each to their own bud, it would be boring if we were all the same. Stay safe 👍

[@adv_rider]

teapotone I’m with you also, I like the bigger bike better. Just saying some people choose the (slightly) smaller bike for the off road advantage. Thanks again for the nice video

[@allanmethven9238]

Good honest no bullshit review .was thinking of changing my explorer 1200 for a gs 1200 .how would you compare them having done he same thing ..Cheers Al..

[@teapotone]

I absolutely loved the Explorer when I first rode it.... but then I started having lots of technical issues with it (went back to dealership 6 times in 8 months) so I lost faith. Switching to the GS it instantly felt more athletic and dynamic, the weight is all low down so it feels really flickable. The Triumph rode like it was on rails, incredibly planted and it just stuck wherever you put it. The GS feels sportier, much more nimble, and I prefer that personally.

[@wickedtwix]

Because the 850 GSA with all packages and RDC/SOS included costs me 15'400 CHF, the 1250 GSA with all packages and RDC/SOS would cost me 25'230 CHF. I call 10 grand a good reason...I just bought one last week.

[@teapotone]

Fair one, I personally don’t ever buy a bike, I always get them on finance as I intend to change them every 2-3yrs. I’d still rather take a lower spec’d GS over the 850 personally 🤷‍♂️

[@wickedtwix]

@@teapotone the naked 1250 is 17'900 over here 😉 still a bit more

[@allanmethven9238]

Cheers Bruce might go ahead and make the change .tmf rates them very highly too ..

[@bigbiketrip9182]

Great video Bruce. I just cant see why i would want to take the 850 over my current 1200. Its talker, heavier up top and less powerful; ill stick with the one i have. However, i like the fact you do note that its a good bike, and not everyone can stomach the eye watering £17-18k for the GS/A. On another note, where have you mounted that god awful mic adapter?

[@teapotone]

Thanks bud, the mic adaptor is attached to the side of my lid. I got some 3M backed strips of ‘velcro’ and put one bit on the lid and another on one side of the adaptor. Then I just stick it on and off we go. I’ll be doing a vid on my setup soon 👍

[@mototakahe836]

@@teapotone I will look forward to that little episode.

[@FenTour]

Another superb VLOG, I still watch every one of your vids to the end, you are concise and the quick editing keeps interest. Yup the GoPro Hero 7 is a great tool, makes my videos and yours much more watchable. I am still editing vids from last summer with the Hero 5 and the footage is so much worse. I have the same bike as you the R1200Gs Rallye and have recently changed the screen over to the GSA one, trouble is I am, now going 10 mph faster everywhere! Ehhmmmm. Re your comment ref small channel VLOG'ers (me) if you fancy exploring gorgeous Norfolk or Rutland give me a shout... We are linked via Instagram I think.... Cheers and safe riding.

[@teapotone]

Absolutely bud, be great to meet up, let’s do it. 👍

[@FenTour]

@@teapotone Cool will drop you a line...

[@mrcintheuk4641]

I like the fact that you have an opinion and tell it how you see it. I just happen to disagree with you on this occasion. I wouldn't buy either! 😂. Keep up the good work! 👍

[@teapotone]

Ha Ha cheers Michael, it would be boring if we all thought the same and agreed on everything though wouldn’t it. 🤣👍

[@MrSimonfoz]

Great review thanks mate, are you going to continue the 1250GSA review again after the breakdown drama ?

[@teapotone]

Yep I’m hoping to get this done over the summer/autumn all going well 👍

[@MrSimonfoz]

@@teapotone rgr cheers mate.

[@maxfella]

Because it is lighter and the best for long distance adventure !!!

[@markgr1nyer]

I use an F800 for a blood bike (personal bike was an RT12 before a zzr14) and I used to do the blood bikes on my own RT (so costing me running costs over no costs on the F800) because of the power and torque, always useful going for those sneaky overtakes....ZZR is a different ball game but not insured for blood bike work so back to using the F800....until May 27th when I turn 30 and can ride the FJR1300s As for the job bike course, if its the initial 3 week course then that will should get you somewhere near an IAM F1rst standard I believe. When I passed with a first it was with a police biker and he said a first means you would do very well on the more advanced police courses over the initial 3 week one (don't know if the met have the same system)

[@moody9931]

I was considering a big GS but, every time I watch one of your videos Helga seems to be having work done. She's a high maintenance girl that one! Think I'll give BMW a miss altogether.

[@teapotone]

Not at all - I do about 2-3,000 miles a month so she’s in for her 6k service fairly frequently as standard

[@paulpartridge2674]

Very enjoyable vlog, interested to see what you think of the KTM 1290 SD GT if you get a chance to test one out 👍🍻

[@teapotone]

Thanks Paul, just trying to figure out when I can get some of the KTM’s. Really looking forward to trying them out 👍

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Nice review and i understand your thoughts of the 850 vs 1250 Beemer. I was going through a similar dilemma late last year. I wanted a Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport and thought it was perfection. I'm fairly remote for living on the coast of California and there weren't any within a reasonable distance. I never saw them on the road, but oh the reviews... I finally made my way to the closest Honda dealer (3-4 hours away) that had both the Standard AT and the ATAS in the showroom. I'm 5'8" tall. They were gigantic and heavy enough that if I were alone and had to pick it up a half dozen times, I'd be done. Disappointed I road my H-D Ultra Classic back home to think. I have a huge long distance road bike, the Harley. I wanted something to take to Alaska, Canada, and tear up nor-Cal's off-road routes. So I bought a new KLR 650. I didn't gain anything as far as feet touching the ground (Low seat from Seat Concepts helped there) but the weight savings was dramatic. My gal doesn't want to ride at break neck speed so the 650 is large enough. If I go alone I can just enjoy the scenery more, and get to more remote places on the lighter, thinner bike. I'm imagining, and that is all these thoughts are, that most people are thinking the same way with the 850 instead of the 1200. Thinner, lighter, more off-road focused machine... and less expensive.

[@deviantrider9309]

Totally agree with your conclusion on the bike bruce, wouldn't swop my tiger 800 for one of these but that 1250 hp might tempt me, By the way just subbed you from richy's vids been following him for years, Hope your going to do some more with him you two guy's seem to have a good rapport together

[@teapotone]

Thanks for your support bud and welcome to the channel, glad you’re enjoying the vids! Aye Rich is a top lad, we will definitely be doing more together in the future, it’s just a matter of finding the time as we both have pretty demanding jobs to fit all this around. It will happen though 👍

[@bioni76]

850GSA is about 75% cheaper then the GS1250, so it's a no brainer over here at least :). I agree the power of the 1250 is well beyond.. But the old 1200, i don't feel it's THAT much of a difference to be honost. And if you would take it off-road, despite the boxer have lower center of gravity, the 850 feels much lighter and more fun off the tarmac :).

[@aspectcarl]

That hero 7 produces fantastic video

[@teapotone]

Amazing eh, I love’m 👍

[@stephenedwards1278]

Maybe 800cc its best for new riders who would find 1000cc+ too much for a first bike which everyone on these channels say (600cc max). What do you think as an ex Police rider?

[@teapotone]

I think it’s entirely down to you personally as a rider. If you think you have the self control and maturity to deal with a 1000cc bike as your first bike, then go ahead and get one. Just don’t be surprised if you end up in a ditch fairly soon afterwards, or worse. Litre bikes, even 600cc bikes, have incredible amounts of power available at the short twist of a wrist - way more than most cars out there. They require respect and a lot of personal restraint so you can learn how your bikes engine performs with the throttle. Then you can have a play 😉

[@stephenedwards1278]

@@teapotone Oh yes !! - I'm a Class 1 HGV driver in his late 40s so already been through the "speed freak" stage and I am all aware of the dangers out there not to respect it. Thought about a Tracer 7/9 GT. Thanks.

[@AManAstray]

Thanks for the review and also mentioning your height and weight . As I'm the same height but not as fa....Errmmmm I have slightly lighter gear :-) it's a great like for like comparison. I'm looking to get a 2nd bike so your reviews will be of great interest.

[@teapotone]

Cheers George 👍

[@mabsbry1318]

Good video. Why buy? Better off road, particularly if it gets rougher and/or you’re riding alone. Cheers

[@markshirley7639]

So, what would you have ? as I have just done, an F850gs adventure sport and a 2019 aprilla tuono factory or a 1250 gsa. Like you I hankered after another sports bike and on the back bumpy twisty roads in the North Yorkshire Moore’s and dales the 850 is much more fun than my older gs1200 .

[@teapotone]

I wouldn’t bother with the 850GS and just stick with the Tuono for everything - I’d NEVER get off it.... EVER. EVERRRRRRRRRR! (I like the Tuono 🤓👍)

[@FLoaB]

On the job bike course vs IAM, I'm going to be very interested! I've started the RoSPA system, and I'm thinking that the Police course - class 1, is it? - makes sense in terms of IPSGA, mostly the positioning, because of the speeds a Police rider can/needs to achieve, but I'm not convinced about we plebs who can't blue light it all... I'll be very interested in your thoughts on this. Also wondering whether the Insta360 One X might feature in your camera comparisons, given the angles I've been getting over my own channel.

[@teapotone]

Funny you should say that, I’ve just bought one so will be trying it out soon 😉 The main thing for ‘civvy’ riding is positioning I think really, and reading the road up ahead. I’m already a police driver and I incorporate that into my riding. I’m looking forward to developing that through the police riding instructors, their input is second to none on the road 👍

[@FLoaB]

@@teapotone I really do hope they let you vlog the police riding course - as I recall, @advancedbiker has done a few in the past, and it would be most interesting to compare and contrast the IAM/RoSPA take vs the "official" line. Is it wrong for me to be excited? (BTW, being an R1200GSA rider, as well as K1600, I'm with you on your take on the 850GSA.)

[@duncanorr5926]

That bike can be limited to a2 licence. That could be the first gs

[@teapotone]

Yep that’s very true, tbh a didn’t even think of that originally 👍

[@iallso1]

I like your review, but it comes from a perspective of having ridden the big brother. I have been riding a 250cc Suzuki as my first bike, so what may be a lack of power or slower acceleration to you, may be all that is required. I'm looking for a bike on which to commute 65km per day on roads with a max speed limit of 100kmph, with some shingle roads to ride on the weekend. This sounds more than capable, but may be a little expensive compared to something like a Vstrom650. I'm looking forward to getting my full licence later in the year and having the opportunity to test ride a range of bikes.

[@teapotone]

Hi Ian, yep absolutely, my opinion is coming from my own background on bikes as that’s how I can quantify it. But yep you’re right, for you this bike may well tick the boxes, however as you say, I reckon something like the VStrom 650 would be ideal 👍

[@LoneRiderTravelDiaries]

This is one of the best reviews I have seen on the 850gsa... this is going to my next bike for sure... thank you very much for the awesome video! 🙌🏻🤟🏻

[@teapotone]

My pleasure bud, glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@hobbitbiker9100]

I don’t see what everyone’s beef is with the 1200 or 1250 GS, it’s a very intimidating bike to look at but it’s an absolute dream to handle, I am 5ft 4” with a 29” inside leg and now ride the 1250GSA and it’s a it’s a dream ride, the hill start assist pro enabled me to move from the GS to the GSA on a low chassis, so I have moved to a heavier bike, bigger bike and have never been happier, you need to ride a GS for a few months to get over the size that and the fact that KTM, Ducati, Honda do not do anything for shorter riders. Hobbit Biker forever 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@stephenmcqueen4029]

Hobbit Biker is it lowered

[@hobbitbiker9100]

Stephen McQueen yes low chassis

[@Oldfogey2014]

Hi..how do you find the weight of the bike? It looks quite heavy to me; do you ever worry about dropping it?

[@hobbitbiker9100]

Oldfogey Oldfogey it’s not that’s bad, yes it’s a heavy bike to push about and picking when you drop it, riding it is fantastic as it has such a low centre of gravity. I can stop and hold my balance with both feet on the pegs for a good amount of time, picking it up is all in the technique and find which work best for you and in which circumstance

[@Oldfogey2014]

Many thanks for replying. Not a big fella myself, but always fancy a big touring bike. Might visit a BMW dealer and see if I can cope with a GS1200. Cheers mate.

[@aidebethune]

I'd love it if you could vlogg the job bike course. I'd get so much out of that

[@teapotone]

I’ll have a chat once I’m there and see if it’ll be possible 👍

[@digger8180]

Great honest review, thank you. I have a bit of a question for you, having had a couple of BMW's yourself and doing the tour leader bit have you purchased their extended warranty for any of your bikes and if so is it worth the £££. I ask as I bought my bike second hand from a dealer, one year old with BMW'S 2year warranty, it is about to run out. Have you purchased their extended warranty? Is it worth the high price? I know how much they charge at dealerships for parts and work it's a gamble.

[@teapotone]

No I’ve not actually, I got 2yrs free with Helga and it’s now 3yrs free with new bikes. I don’t plan on keeping Helga for more than 3yrs, I’ll probably just hand her back and take a new one, continuing on the finance - unless something better comes along 😉

[@Tolandur]

you don't have a great track record for running bikes until the warranty runs out :D

[@digger8180]

@@teapotone Thanks for getting back to me. I suppose there is two ways of looking at buying a bike; use it as a tool, which indeed it is or get attached to the bloody thing like I seem to do. I suppose the first is with your head the latter option with the heart. I bought a 1999 Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird a year ago for 1K as a replacement for another winter commute, I now prefer that bike over the other two I have. It's fantastic on modern tyres, bring it back Honda. Feck BMW's extended warranty one thinks at £350!

[@teapotone]

Yes but IF something goes wrong, it will likely cost a LOT more than £350 to fix it. That’s the dilemma isn’t it 😬

[@teapotone]

Ha Ha, you write one bike off and all of a sudden your Evel Knievel!!! 🤣😂 Never mind the 100,000’s of Miles I’ve ridden before that eh 👍

[@semajohn]

As the BOS meet was last weekend. Would you consider coming along to the EOS meet (if work permits)?

[@teapotone]

Absolutely, I was gutted I couldn’t come along, would be great to meet everyone 👍

[@gerardomusano6919]

We can hear from your voice that Helga is the bike for you but try the Ducati v4 and you can touch the stars and you will have a fantastic smile

[@teapotone]

Ha Ha, yes I’d love to try some Ducati’s - I’ve never ridden any. 👍

[@2wheelzarebetter]

I did that ride a few weeks ago ended up in tenterden, looks like you are in the maidstone area.

[@teapotone]

Yep I am 👍

[@Pococnosurvival]

not sure why everyone is always comparing a 1250 to a 850, its like comparing a sportster to a road king. 2 different bikes. I had both, and the 1250 is heaver and more laboring in the dirt. the 850 gsa is 17,000 vs 25,000 for the 1250. for 17,000 your getting the same features in a smaller bike for 8,000 less. the 850 is capable on and off road. I did over 4000 miles in 10 days on the 850, no issue. the 1250 is nicer for touring, but again, 8,000 bucks

[@jj356]

I own a g650 gs and its my first ever bike. It's the perfect starter bike imo. I'd love a bigger bike but a 1200gs is just not gona happen and the 850 would feel like moving sideways in terms of bike purchases. But I do think it looks beautiful.

[@teapotone]

Yep great bikes to start on, and welcome to the family bud 👍

[@leecourt8509]

G650GS is a seriously underrated bike and handles brilliantly - so easy to ride. I haven't tried F850GS but ridden F700GS for a couple of days and would say it's a smoother G650GS with more oomph. So a definite upgrade. Had a R1150GS and R1200GS (water cooled) and did lotsa miles. They can have expensive issues (all well known). Surging is common and the water cooled R1200GS needed a $3K gizmo to trick the oxygen sensors so the ECU calms down. I learnt all this the hard way. I wish I'd googled on Advrider etc to check out issues. Anyhoo....They were great machines otherwise. With the F750GS or R1250GS, if I was you, I'd be waiting a year or two to see what issues pop up.

[@chrissunde1104]

One good reason to buy the 850 is the $9500 you get to keep.

[@vernonosborne9975]

I'm getting this as my first big adventure bike, so this would be a better idea than getting a 1250 straight away, right?

[@teapotone]

Depends mate on you? If you aren’t intimidated by the 1250 then I’d just get that

[@stuartknowles6160]

Bruce what was the diagnosis on Helga? i'd be struggling with the answer from them saying it just needed a software update, that would infer you could be riding RTW and the software just craps out. As an engineer i like to understand what's going on.

[@teapotone]

They still don’t know bud, nothing came up on the diagnostics and the software update seemed to solve it initially. However after leaving the dealership, about 45 mins later as I was riding through central London into work, she stalled on me again (not done it since). But she still won’t idle if you switch her on after being left for an hour or so??

[@stuartknowles6160]

@@teapotone odd eh? I'm not surprised just updating the software hasn't cured it completely. I hope it gets sorted one way or another mate!!

[@teapotone]

Cheers, me too! She rides lovely at speed under power, but is definitely running rich and not happy at idle or very slow speed. I may take her back to HillTop and get them to take off their software to exclude that, then BMW can get her tip top as standard before I put the HillTop back 👍

[@theavangelist]

Classic KAMG route there

[@mardelplatalimousines3423]

A2 driving licence in Catalonia!

[@johna6968]

I would buy it because Iv never liked the boxer engine.

[@Dukevares1]

Thoughts of this bike regarding 2up long distance??

[@tonydmm26y0]

You are quite fun and interesting to listen to!

[@FrilledNeckDragonUK]

The 1250 is just too bulky for me and my size plus boxer engine not for me. I upgraded from my 1200 to the 800gsa now the 850gsa :)

[@cpuuk]

Helga: A software update, really ¬_¬

[@teapotone]

Yesssssssss, didn’t sit right with me either but she did ride fantastically well for the first half hour or so away from the dealership. Needs looking at now though

[@cpuuk]

@@teapotone Reminds of my new Mondeo, the battery went flat 3 times in the first month (put the meter on it). It went in, had a "software update" fix, came back fine. A check of the battery showed they had done 100% charge... was fine after that. Yea Ford, software ¬_¬

[@Christopher-yh5lh]

How's that Chinese Lincon engine treating ya?

[@robsonenduro3316]

My biggest problem with that bike is lack or fully adjustable forks, at that price point it's weird and I agree this bike is kinda characterless.

[@fregg34]

I wonder if traveling in duo with full luggages, you will miss power to accelerate

[@teapotone]

100%

[@fregg34]

100%missing or 100% enough power? :) 😝

[@teapotone]

@@fregg34 if you're two up with luggage, this will definitely lack grunt

[@fregg34]

@@teapotone thanks!

[@rickb5590]

Like i said a while back if it wasnt for that diving front end ,poor screen and height, Id have one over the Tiger 800 XRT

[@tolga1cool]

Those are all fixable though

[@Invis_Space]

Aimed at riders that maybe don’t have the experience for the 1200 grunt yet or maybe some riders that are just intimated by that level of power? I can understand some people taking the 850 as something to test the GS water with. Haha

[@12masterr]

Not at all! I still have my 2014 1200,and I bought the 850 gsa,after taking 2 test rides, coming from sportbikes the 1250 doesn't have that much power really, if people were foing for power alone they will buy the ktm 1290,no tje BMW!..however the 850 has a almost perfect balance of size,weight and power.

[@BN1960]

I think it appealsto those that want an ADV bike but NOT a Boxer GS derivative for whatever reason - and can you believe there are people out there that think like that! Unfortunately, the bike comes across as what you get when you can't afford a Boxer GS...which is daft 'cos it's only about 50p less. BMW do this a lot - Scarver anyone?

[@MAPPED]

FYI - Team MAPPED are well up for a meet!

[@teapotone]

Awesome, let’s get it sorted 👍

[@dventureseeker]

Tyres will last longer on 850

[@snafusnafu7409]

Bloody work get in the way of fun hehehehehe

[@teapotone]

Every time 😔

[@sirfaffalot9136]

I'd suggest that on smaller capacity bikes, you're not in the most responsive gear available. I see you in third and fourth a lot of times that on a bike like this (800 odd cc, not a huge amount of bhp/torque), when I'd be in second. That roundabout near the end is a classic example. Fourth gear was way too high, third would've been fine if you'd carried more speed in, but given the car in front slowed you down I'd have entered in second to have more umph to exit and get on the gas. You've been spoiled riding the 1200 matey. 🤣👍

[@whitedrguy6503]

I must admit I would not but either the 850 or 1250, way too much tech and weight for the real world, but if push came to shove I would go the 850, 21 inch front wheel is so much better off road than a 19. Off road does not just mean a dirt road but a track with ruts and fallen trees, rocks and so forth, unpredictable surfaces. No matter how good the 1250 is on the road, get into some rough stuff and the 1250 would be floundering like a beached whale, mud and deep sand can do in most big bikes in no time. After all these are allegedly adventure bikes, not just touring bikes, adventure begins when the bitumen stops.

[@teapotone]

That’s true for most I’d say, but the bigger adventure bikes are surprisingly capable in ‘proper’ off-road conditions in the right hands - not mine I hasten to add 👍

[@poden3863]

What about the 1000XR?

[@teapotone]

Already done a review of it a while ago, it’s fast but didn’t do anything for me personally

[@lucadelley9992]

I just sold my S1000XR 2day ago for a 850GSA. Take a bike you love tha'ts all. But the XR is too much powerfull and the maintenance is expensive

[@kostaspapazoglou478]

It's totally wrong to compare the 850GS with the 1250GS. Different category, totally different price range, different suspension. It's just a different bike.

[@teapotone]

Yes but people ALWAYS ask which I’d go for between the two - so I’m simply answering the questions people ask.🤷‍♂️

[@cpunto]

Keep referencing the 1200/50, why no comparisons to the 700/750 of the same F range?

[@teapotone]

Because I’ve never ridden them

[@cpunto]

@@teapotone great frugal commuters

[@stephenchapman8344]

👍

[@motogusnz]

I really like this review, as on paper I just don’t think the 850 stacks up compared with the 1200. The weight higher up, the power less, and probably not as much comfort for long distance

[@teapotone]

Yea it’s unfair of me to ha e compared the 850 against the 1200/850 as I think they are meant for 2 distinct markets - but for me personally I just don’t see it’s purpose, especially when there are other bikes in the BMW smaller CC range?

[@motogusnz]

@@teapotone I think it 'is' fair, the review. That's the point. As, if the 850 were say much lighter you'd think about it as more of a true dual sport - and therefore as having more of an 'other' purpose. Instead it is still heavy and carries the weight high - so if you wanted more dual sport you'd need to be going to lighter bikes and other marques (e.g., DR etc). Not that I've ridden one. But I have looked at the 800 and 850 on paper and thought I should consider them. But then I see the specs and hard to find a reason why. Your video was great because you've ridden heaps (so you offer a great perspective) and explained how it is.

[@teapotone]

Thanks 👍

[@Jonas_Fager]

360p squad lol

[@neilwiddison6529]

Hey bruce you big gs riders dont nod to us other bikers .lol.

[@teapotone]

Ha Ha yeah I know a lot don’t, but I nod to almost everyone..... except cyclists 🤦‍♂️

[@zap5936]

I don't see how you can do motorcycle first impressions in the environment you're in forgot to leave the country go where real riding takes place. The BMW 850 has a rattling engine and if you ride off-road first gear is way too high you will end up burning up the clutch

[@caroldave4037]

Your a big whimp can't man handle e wee thing like that😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉 only jokn......agree to all you gs riders out there hard going back to other machines..even tho I havnt ridden one...just remember the humungeous cost of gs's. ...cheers from dave..

[@teapotone]

Aye the initial cost is fairly big - although most other similar level bikes are around that mark now anyway. But the surprising thing for me is that the GS is actually CHEAPER to service than my GSX-R1000?!?!

[@mauricioteixeira9234]

This bike is not made to compare the big GS1250, also for the price point is the best one in the market.

[@diogomorato]

Seriously wtf... You do know BMW is making these to go up against other brand models not the 1250 GS. Africa Twin, Multistrada 950, KTM 1090, etc. ...

[@teapotone]

Yes but people are also looking at buying these in place of a 1200 or 1250 - just read a lot of the other comments.

[@diogomorato]

@@teapotone Fair enough. Still thats a big wallet leap. When i was looking to buy a new bike i never considered the 1200 still i did try the 850 before buying an Africa Twin. Im just saying it would be nice to see your input outside the BMW bubble.

[@teapotone]

Absolutely, but it’s only BMW who are offering their bikes to review at the moment 🤷‍♂️ Hopefully I’ll be able to develop some connections with other manufacturers 👍

[@petermuller74]

WEIGHT!

[@teapotone]

?