BMW GS Review | All you need to know from a long term owner | My bikes Episode 2

[@jonnofretinthai]

Had my 2013 GS since November and it’s by far the most comfortable bike I’ve ridden! People are entitled to their opinions about the GS, but I love it and really don’t care about the stereotyping. Like you said, there’s a reason why it’s such a popular machine!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Exactly - that's the spirit!

[@steveabrahams8353]

I’m on my 3rd GSA. I’ve just (yesterday) ordered my 4th, a Triple Black 1250 GSA. My 2018 GSA that I’m trading in has been to 20 countries, covered 31000 miles and it still puts a smile on my face when I ride it! The only people who slate the GS either can’t afford one or have never had one.

[@sorena1973]

@@steveabrahams8353 3100 miles in 20 countries ??? were you flying with it instead of riding it ??!!! :-)))))

[@DelCotton]

I’ve been following your channel since before I passed my test last October. 3 bikes and 12000 miles later I ordered a new low suspension 1250 today. I hope I get to take mine on as many adventures as you’ve taken yours Andy. An inspirational channel by a thoroughly decent bloke. Thanks and keep up the good work sir.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow thank you Del! ….and congratulations on the new bike!

[@RikkyTang]

The screen "is manually adjustable via this knob here"... Andy don't be so hard on yourself! 😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oi"!

[@Prince-gu8or]

Lol

[@hudsonrilke]

haha, he cant help it :)

[@bonzaralph]

Boom boom

[@stephenpotts8170]

Yes I have to agree with you, I have had many bikes over the years, but my 2020 1250 GS ADV TE exclusive is without doubt the most accomplished motorcycle I have ever owned, it just does everything so amazingly well. Hopefully when this awful pandemic is just a horrible memory I will do many touring miles on it. And I would just like to thank you for the time and effort you put into the videos you post on your channel, very informative. Stay safe...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure Stephen - please do continue to watch them!

[@bikerdadandy5218]

Have been watching your vids for a few months. Only got my GS in December and not done many miles due to lockdown, but your vids are tempting me further afield. The miles I have done I am really happy with the bike - I’m into biking for touring and visiting places. Nice round up of the bike.. keep them coming!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear Andy - and will do!

[@ranty13]

Don't forget the added 'hugger' rear mud guard ! Thanks to your channel I am also 13500 euros poorer. A 2018 R1200 GS. At 64, I wanted something more upright, but always thought the GS was just too enormous. Finally was convinced to take a test ride. After 10 meters I knew I had found the bike I wanted. Had tried a Multistrada and loved it, but the engine was a bit too jumpy. Had to go to the north of France to pick it up, then rode it from Nancy to Marseille in the rain and fog to bring it home. The bike handled it all like a champ. Thanks again for the channel, good work ! Ciao!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Brilliant - and yep, I forgot the hugger!

[@Bikerwren]

I’m a 16 almost 17 year old girl who dreams of getting the GS1250. I have my CBT at the moment and I’m really looking forward to upgrading. My boyfriend is 17 and has his CBT and also loves the GS. I definitely haven’t ever thought of a GS as a “old persons bike”. Great bike and great video!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad to hear it - good luck with your bike tests to both of you!

[@Bikerwren]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thank you!

[@OCCUPIEDNATION]

Such an elegant and honest review - I especially liked the "You're pigeon-holed into a group people don't want to associate with..."

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you enjoyed it - thank you!

[@philearl7614]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Great review, considering one for my next bike. Forget "groups", it's better to be "unique" ;)

[@bruceleong9534]

You’ve kept it in beautiful condition. Congratulations! Ever since I watched your “Two buckets” method of cleaning a bike I’ve followed your practice. Thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Bruce - it seems to have worked! That plus ACF50....

[@Alanroch51]

First you wheeled out the RE and I thought "What a lovely bike", then you wheeled out the Triumph and I thought "What a lovely bike", then you wheeled out the triple and....ah, you know the rest.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes - I realise I'm very fortunate!

[@Alanroch51]

@@TheMissendenFlyer True, but your good fortune is the result entirely of your own endeavour, so all credit to you - keep it up!

[@opichocal]

I want a BMW but the high cost/maintenance and dealer only repairs have kept me from owning one. My Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki bikes almost never fail me. My highest maintenance bike is a can am spyder. It costs more to run but I love it.

[@jonpram1737]

I must admit when I saw the video on how to change the clutch in a GS, I decided then and there I’d never own a BMW R bike lol. Besides I don’t need a 1.2L+ adventure bike; the F’s are big enough and light enough for me...though I’d take a tiger 900 over any of the current line up.

[@12masterr]

Totally wrong about that! The only reason to take it to the dealer is because it is under warranty! If not, you can do your own maintenance easier than most other bikes. Like, you can do your own valves on the gs, did you try a Japanese bike? Also, the cluch on the water cooled bikes is in the front and easily accessible!. I don't get married to any bike,if something is better I'll change in a instant!

[@PetrolJunkie]

@@12masterr I only took mine in for the 600 mile check because it was free and they unlocked the rest of the rider modes and took off the governor. I know I could have easily done it myself but it was free. 🤷‍♂️

[@Tomahawkfalcone]

Whens the goldwing arriving..... 🤣

[@opichocal]

@@Tomahawkfalcone funny I bought a goldwing last summer. I’ve wanted one for years and it’s a very reliable touring machine. I did my first Iron butt in October 1156 miles in 20 hrs. April I’m doing over 1500 in 24hrs

[@ironmanmichael]

"This is a bit anoraky.." - it's all a bit anoraky! Marvellous. Please, please, please keep the vids coming - for the sake of all our sanities.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I will don't worry about that!

[@colindeans5972]

I'd love to own a GS and will someday soon hopefully. I think they look, sound great and I don't understand the haters. PCP ain't for me so it's a saving game for now. Thanks again TMF, enjoyed that one.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The good thing about PCP is that there are lots of well maintained GS' on the market Colin! Get yourself a decent second hand TE for £10K and enjoy some else's depreciation.....

[@spetersonmusic]

The image of that bike here in Michigan is a snobby old man's bike; just being honest. It isn't just the UK. The reality is horses for courses, tools for the job at hand. I've seen some of the journeys you have shared with that bike and IMHO - you did well with that one. Supermachine.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes funny how bikes get an "image" isn't it Scott - luckily I'm old enough now to not really care what anyone thinks!

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

A superb fully comprehensive and unbiased review. I'm more of an FJR man, but I appreciate the many missions a bike like this can offer. Take care and let's hope we can get out riding again soon.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Amen to that!

[@Rpcustodio7]

Not sure if it’s been said before, but Sir, you are a bloody legend!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nope, don't think I've been called that before - plenty of other stuff, but I'll take that, thanks!

[@RazorRamone02]

Look at the subtle showing off of the bikes.. I was thinking, couldn't you have just edited it so you're taking the GS out. 😅 love it!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Apologies if it came across that way - I included that section because I wanted to show off the Guardsman barrier, when I watched it back I too thought it might be a bit much, sorry about that....

[@RazorRamone02]

@@TheMissendenFlyer @TheMissendenFlyer ohhhhh ok. No worries, been watching a long time & you don't usually show off so it's cool lol Besides, there're some good horses in your stable anyway & who doesn't like to see the horses 😅 Oh & nice guardsman then.. looks useful.

[@paulgtravers]

Never apologise for having too many bikes. I believe the old saying is, the perfect number of bikes to own is what you already have +1.

[@nickholmes2464]

Just a bloody show off ! On a another note I'm thinking of getting one. I was going to get the 1200gs with tft 2018 onward especially after watching fortnine review but for poss a 1k more I could get the 1250gs interested in your thoughts ?

[@chrishart8548]

@@nickholmes2464 only £1k more for the 1250 that can't be right are they both like for like? Unless the person selling the 1200 is being greedy with the asking price.

[@andrewgibbs5135]

I’m definitely a GS/BM admirer but I wouldn’t spend £18/20k on a new one and would be afraid of the maintenance costs of a used example, which are still relatively expensive. One day though 🤔 Many thanks for the comprehensive and detailed review, as always 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@glenns6923]

Its Great to see that you still enjoy that awesome machine!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I do!

[@trevorlewis8316]

Hi TMF! without wishing to be too controversial. you identify the steering damper as a new addition incorporated on your bike's model year. I think it is worth mentioning the occasional tank slappers earlier versions had without this additional item.

[@rogerthelodger]

I’ve tried quite a few bikes since I retired recently, (Honda Dominator, street triple 765RS, Kawasaki Versys, Multistrada 950s) and they all had issues for me. The last 2 were a bit top heavy and I’ve almost dropped one of them. I had a test ride on the R1250GS and it was another level,well balanced and low down weight and confidence building when coming to a stop. So I traded I the Multistrada and bought a GS. Thanks for the great tips on your Chanel.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure Roger....

[@thepaperkings]

Whatever anyone says this bike will always appeal to the childhood appreciation of Street Hawk and I loved riding my 2008 version! Have the KTM1190 adventure now just for because i wanted that pedigree..... Thanks another great video - you don’t make a bad one do you! 🤙🏻

[@aher89able]

Are you happy with your 1190? Some bigger issues to take care of?

[@Graimthu1]

As a GS owner myself, your review is SPOT-ON. Well done young man! 👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you William, glad we concur!

[@TheSteelerider]

Have exactly the same bike. Mine is a first gen, with no damper. It feels as good as they day I bought it, and see no reason to upgrade. 37K miles, no corrosion, and it still runs very well. Only issues I have had was with the switchgear. All was repaired at no charge both in and out of warranty. A fantastic machine.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What happened to the switchg ear - mine gets a bit "sticky" sometimes.....???

[@TheSteelerider]

@@TheMissendenFlyer the ESA switch and cruise control stopped working. Both were swapped out, and seem to be fine.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hmmmm, will keep an eye on that then......

[@Bush0r]

With all those lights, your GS shines brighter then the sun itself. :o

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I like to be seen!

[@Bazza47]

An accurate review as usual Andy. I've had 3, a 2016 1200, 2018 1200 and a 2020 1250. Things I found better/worse across the 3 were the 1st one seemed more agile than the 2nd, that may have been down to the v1 and v2 suspension. The Gearbox on the 2nd was better than the 1st and if you're of a certain age the TFT is definitely worth in with all the speed cameras about as the old style clocks can be difficult to read. Across all 3 the GSAP is worth having, the SOS button can be a PITA bringing up warnings on the TFT because it's lost the mobile signal. The hillhold on the 1200 is a bit naff as it takes a good fistful of throttle to overcome it. The 1250 is a better bike than the 1200, aside from the engine being more powerful everywhere it's smoother too. Things like the GSAP and hillhold are better too so if I was looking for a used GS I'd go for a 2016 or earlier or the 1250.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes agreed on all counts Adrian.....

[@theheroblob5036]

Great retrospective review, TMF! I've just bought an RT... another bike that comes with an image problem, old mans bike etc. But frankly , i don't care coz a) I think it looks great, b) it's the most awesome bike I've owned, c) its waaaayyyyy more sporty that anyone (excpet RT riders) gives it credit for. Roll on Covid-free times!! 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Right on!

[@ruisantossilva9078]

Mr. Flyer! Just like you, the GS is my favorite bike. Love it. An amazing machine that confort us on the road. Thanks for the review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@joedonnelly387]

Absolutely loving your videos during lockdown, keeping me sane haha. One note though, I actually prefer the non-wide angle lens on the phone camera during the walk around, your usual is wide as it is, and it was always nice for the phone section to be a closer look at the bike. Just a thought! Keep up the amazing work mate

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Noted! Thanks for the feedback Joe!

[@chrissteer7333]

I agree with one of your comments I bought my first Gs 1250 last year aged 74 and absolutely love it after saving for a a while and I acknowledge all riders but there a few riders who don’t bother to reciprocate after all we’re all enjoying biking

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Odd isn't Chris....

[@nellytheelephant7794]

Great video as always. Your garage is looking like a showroom! Five bikes, I counted 12 helmets and 12 jackets...... you’re a lucky man.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I like to think of it as fortunate 😉

[@grizzlystr3445]

As a Gs owner agree with your comments, they just do everything well. I’ve started to find it a little heavy moving around & getting off side stand, and the latest ones aren’t any less weight, but otherwise brill. Good honest review 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Grizzly, glad we concur!

[@ThePaulHopwood]

Great Vlog, yet again. I ended up buying my GS1250 after watching you vlogs in Scotland and Norway. I’ve always been a sport bike rider, but must say the GS is the best all round bike I’ve ever owned. Just got too get some tours in once covid buggers off. Keep the excellent Vlogs coming.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Will do Paul - glad we concur!

[@BillLivingstone]

Great video! At 29, I'm hoping to drop the average age of people who own GS by a few years! Of course because of the price like you mentioned mine is the 96' 1100GS but it still counts! :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sure does! Welcome to the old mans club!

[@travelinben1966]

I've never ridden a GS,but must do that when I have the opportunity.I appreciate your feedback as a GS owner TMF.Owner experience on a machine is valuable information to have.Thank you for sharing yours here.👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure....

[@splodge57]

Nice bike, I had one for 4 years, so practical but didn't light no fires. Had to go, no regrets. Great review.

[@szeriman13]

@@maxflight777 i have the GS also, buuuut ktm 1290 or ducati 1260? 😉

[@joshuapedlow6209]

@@maxflight777 Suzuki v strom 650 or 1050 far better bike for the money and more reliable

[@szeriman13]

@@maxflight777 its not true, ive had a vstrom before the gs. reliable, yes. good big no. It was not comfy and the wind buffeting was extrem. ive tried 6 windshields, and no luck. if you are above 186cm then you are lost.

[@szeriman13]

@@joshuapedlow6209 in your dreams maybe. better no, maybe cheaper. suzuki is still in the last century with vstrom's. just check the electronics, the ergonomy, etc etc i know ive switched from the vstrom to an older gs, and still better.

[@szeriman13]

@@maxflight777 right.

[@stevenpburnip4672]

I have a GS and use the strob flashing lights when filtering..... you find traffic moves instead of blocking when filtering...great idea👏🏻👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it does work, but id the old bill saw you I suspect you'd be nicked....

[@anthonyfox2836]

Definitely glad I’ve found this channel. One of the positive experience of Lockdown number whatever! Great review Mr. Fly. Serious piece of bike for £8,000. Really enjoy used motorcycle reviews about iconic bikes. Great professional quality! Better than anything on the telly. Bikes save lives! Looking forward to the next video. Thanks 🙏

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Welcome along Anthony - what kept you!?

[@m4tblz]

I don't care about image really but there is something to it. I just bought one, I'm 30yo (1250 from 2020). Got good deal on it so I took it. Thought about this and 1290 adv r. Beemer is easier to ride and better for 2up (important for me) and it is outstanding upgrade for me as I was previously on middleweight naked from 2006. Also the thing that when offroading this elephant is easier to pick up than other elefants is also relevant imo, if of course, somebody wants to take it offroad. Lastly the avability of the 1290adv in poland was not that great when I was shopping for one so it sealed the deal (probably new model will appear soon). KTM is definitelly more of a hotrod, bmw will I think be equal to it, up to maybe 140km/h but there is no option for it to keep the pace in higher speeds. Maybe the next one will be KTM, who knows :) I definitely like both brands and their ideas for different things.

[@laurencefaux6451]

Glad you mentioned the back brake problem. Has prompted me to take off and service mine to avoid the same..thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'm not sure what the cause was - might just be that my poor ol' GS tends to sit in the garage for a long time between being used - one of the unintended consequences of being a motorcycling KZbinr....I rarely get to ride my own bikes!

[@stuartowen6794]

Great bike, I'm currently 4 episodes into the Artic Circle tour videos you made and sat debating trading my V4Tuono Factory in for an adventure bike.. My friend has just bought a 1200 tiger and he wants to do longer trips that my Aprilia probably would like but my knees/wrists wouldn't. Subscribed and Enjoying the videos, Thanks TMF

[@adaptableadventurerider]

It's an interesting one isn't it I've had a 1200gsa te 2014 spec one which I absolutely loved did some big tours on what let it down was the reliability, first day the clock assy failed, then in year 2 it went in for a service they left the rocker gasket off and it trashed the engine, that was followed up by another 2 engines then swiftly by another gearbox after the 2nd replacment engine had a box full of neutrals, then a final drive. I dread to think of the cost if it hadn't been on warranty. Left me with no gs for 7 months while it was all ongoing. If it hadn't been for it being on finance I would have been left to deal with it by myself. Since then I've had a f800gs (headstock bearings were a pain) an I've ran my 1967 Norton 650ss for the past 3 years inc winter riding and its been perfectly reliable. I agree with your lists of positives and negatives tbh it's a shame they can't get the gearbox better, the one on my Norton an 350lc is like silk crazy to think how much older they are compared to the gsa. Would I have another GSA yep but I'd self service the issues I had apart from the dash were all caused by the BMW dealer network. Oh an the esa rear shock failed on mine to. Out of interest do you have any idea how much you have spent on servicing and extended warranty over the period you have owned it? An what have you got on the clock now I had 18k on mine :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You were unlucky - Ive had very few issues and no extended warranty!

[@gazgleeson5669]

Thanks for another great vlog TMF.. just bought my first GS.. 2019 1250 Rallye TE with less than 1k miles on clock so almost brand new.. ive came from a S1KR and S1KRR before that.. over 50 now so time to chill out and take it easy... looking forward to a break in the weather so I can actually ride her.. dreading the stigma they get.. as you say "old man's bike etc"... thanks again.. take care..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations! You'll soon get what a great bike they are.....

[@stevecolwill9761]

Nice review, Andy. I have to say if I had to choose one bike it would be a beemer and the GS would be near if not top of the list. No bike is perfect but this is pretty close. Your Norway tour was a great watch by the way and a good advert for the bike 👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Steve - if only BMW would agree they might send me on another of those brilliant tours! Did enjoy that one....

[@colinbirney7588]

Andy you have to take the GS to Ireland.... When restrictions are eased.... The roads on the Wild Atlantic Way are perfect for biking, especially Donegal, Mayo, Galway and Kerry. A couple of Star Wars filming locations along the way as well

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Its on the list (although i might give the Star Wars bit a miss!)....

[@roberthall1437]

G'Day TMF. Ahh nothing like listening to a man and his bike. I'm just as passionate about my Triumph Street Triple 765. Good on ya Andy.

[@ironhorsehero1988]

Bought mine second hand a couple of years ago largely because of watching your clips ( had a 800gs previously), at first didn’t like the gear change even with quick shift and took a bit of time to get used to it not diving under braking. Two years on and I’d love a change of bike but I think I’ll have to have a second bike because I can’t bear to part with it, I quite often hear the “grandad bike” thing but that’s ok I am a grandad. 400 miles in a day only 130 motorway coming home from Scotland in comfort all the way. Completely agree, one bike does everything really well.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad we concur!

[@repetitivemotion]

In the Midwest (USA) the highest selling segment in the metric market are adventure bikes. The reason is simple, they are fast, comfortable, versatile and have a lot of suspension travel. I ride the VStrom 1000 for the weight, style and cost/benefit.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

yep - they sell because they're what buyers want! Fancy that!

[@michaelneve3223]

Really useful video Andy - thanks. My GS turns up in two weeks and I can see me buying things for it all next year. I’m 6ft1 so I expect the MRA vario screen will get bought fairly soon!

[@falseneutral7890]

currently am finding my self being “drawn to the dark side” by thinking of switching from my beloved 2012 Triumph Explorer to an early LC GS. Them boxers came long way since my old 1100RT. I adore my big cat, 85k km and never missed a beat, but unfortunately the brakes are crap on it and for off-road it’s really a bit to top heavy, plus since I hate chains there is nowhere else to go really. Nice vid Andy, quite helpful 👍

[@Tommy-Atkins]

Now that’s just showing off pal!!...jammy bar steward...what a wonderful collection....very envious 👍👍😉😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry I didn't mean to appear showy offy but can see how it came across that way....must try harder.

[@SouthWest-jj8yu]

Good review, I have several GS models in the garage, an air cooled, water cooled and now a 750. The biggest gripe I have about the 1200 is the very light front end with a pillion and luggage almost feels as if the wheel is just brushing the road, not a problem when riding only noticeable at slow speed where the control can be difficult. The 750 is actually better in this respect possibly the fact it’s 2” longer wheelbase.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I agree - I have found the front end goes light at very high speed with a top box (as per on the Autobahn when I did my Arctic trip)....

[@highdefp-rm7zg]

Got off my 1250 and rode a rusty poorly maintained 1200 high miler from 2013. It handled and rode superbly! Says a lot really ... (gearbox clunky but even the new one isn’t the best). A GS ticks 15/20 boxes for me... it’s missing excitement/ bonkers acceleration., it’s heavy, not a wheelie machine or sexy but can’t think of another bike that scores 15.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Exactly!

[@criticalcuda]

Iv got an early 2016 GS , bought it a year old with 3000 on it , now got 38000 on it ,trouble free ,a few marks but I like that ,shows it’s used , no intention of changing it , unless you use finance or pcp I don’t see the point in keep changing just for a newer reg plate ,

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree Brian....

[@racerdaveracerdave]

This was a very helpful review. I'm actually about to head over to a shop to look at a 2015 and that bit about things to look out for was outstanding. Cheers!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good luck Dave - hope the bike is a good’un!

[@russelllocke7180]

Enjoyed hearing about your experience with your GS TMF. I’ve now clocked up just over 85’000kms on mine. Like you I’ve had two sets of the Metzler Roadtec 01s & enjoyed them, although with full panniers & my wife on board I didn’t get the mileage you received. Around 10’000kms for the rear & probably around 15,000 for the front. Now running Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2s. Mainly due to Covid & the lack of choice & supply of various tyres at the moment. Given I ride gravel roads as well as the tar the 90/10 road/gravel tyre has been fantastic & they also seem to tip into bend a lot quicker. Stay well. 👍🏍🛩🇦🇺

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good to hear from you again Russ!

[@imspartacustherealspartacus288]

The BMW GS just looks a go anywhere do anything machine, sounds decent too. Practical commuting, touring and exploring off the beaten track.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it's a fabulous bit of kit....

[@stewy62]

I’m currently re-re-re-watching your Artic Circle tour, funny but I don’t recall you going through Belgium as mentioned here? I must keep nodding off at that point 😴. On a bleak UK winter morning it’s great to see Norway with blue skies and 32C ! 🇬🇧🏍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Perhaps we didn’t then!!! I stand corrected (oops!!!)

[@laikatravels]

Just checking out your GS vids. Thinking I might have get me one these older GS’s in 2023 👍 happy new year btw

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes they're still great bikes - as indeed are the older ones if you can find a good one....

[@wiz5x905]

Brilliant video and great timing. I ordered a new 1250GS and yes it's $$$, but I'm really looking forward to it. Thanks for making awesome content and being the standard that others compare to. Nice job.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That's very kind of you to say - enjoy the new bike, you made a good choice!

[@thekingoftheworld9553]

I'm not sure Prince Philip is old enough to have one of them yet ;D

[@tonykisvardai2346]

What timing you have Andy... I’ve traded my 2004 GS for F900XR and I’m doing the changeover tomorrow arvo after waiting 2 months. I know I’m going to miss the GS so I hope the XR will be worth it. I absolutely recommend GS’s even if they are horrendously expensive in Aus ( I just bought a New Nissan X-Trail cheaper than the GS is. Anyway I’ve had a wonderful 16 years on the GS and surprised plenty of sports bike riders when I’ve kept up with them 2 up, or ridden around them 1 up! Hope I’m not going to get seller’s regret cos I still miss the VFR800 I traded for the GS. Great review as usual, hang tough in lockdown, we survived it in Melbourne, all the best.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Ant - wow more expensive than the car, crazy!!! ...and well done to the Aussies for keeping COVID under control, if only our government would learn from others, can't believe what a hash of it ours has made.....always too little too late...anyway, I won't get started (and generally I am a Boris fan!!)....

[@martinfrost3596]

Good review. I'm tempted with the 1250GS, but also thinking seriously about the Ducati Multistrada 950S

[@nickp4179]

Great video. Just gone back to a GSA, arriving next week. Last of the 1200s. Trip to Turkey planned when all this madness ends. Ride safe.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations - and good choice!

[@101amro]

Great video as usual, when you mentioned your back brake seized, you reminded me of a similar kind of problem (BMW 1200 GS 2017). May be it something we should be aware of. My front brake got fully locked, while parked, that was a month later after the dealer service on that day I phoned the AA who bled some oil from the caliper which seemingly sorted the problem then 2 month later the same happened again on the last day of my extended warranty. This time I phoned BMW warranty who collected the bike. Then I got a phone call from the dealer saying that everything is fine, it was just some residues and dirt on the brake pads!!! Still waiting for the bike to be delivered back. Lets hope that is the end of that problem. Thank TMF, I look forward for your next video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Amr - all the best!

[@RutgerSmets]

With all the memories you have with this bike, I'd probably keep it forever, even if it's only as a memento in the garage. Always love to see people love their bikes, thanks for the video Andy!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn't agree more - if I can possibly keep it, I will! It's kind of the bike that I built this channel on....

[@alexmorgan3435]

You do make me chuckle. Nice review. You didn't say how many miles your GS has done, now even more because you filmed this last summer? You have certainly looked after it. Your meticulous application ACF50 has done it's job. You and 44Teeth are going head to head on GS ownership at the moment.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Purely by chance I can assure you! The mileage on mine is currently 26,363 - I checked it earlier today

[@robertwbeams9929]

There's them that aspire to a GS and them that have one. My 7 year-old almost identical to yours Andy. Best all-round bike I have ever owned. A little heavy at a standstill, but king of the road once on the move. I see the 40th Anniversary edition is loaded with gizmos, hands-free riding can only be years away! Anything to crit? How about a totallynone-gizmo (except ABS) edition?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

They reckon no one buys the non gizmo versions - but I bet if they were significantly cheaper they would!

[@ryanharriss7950]

So glad I found this channel!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Welcome along Ryan!

[@billcotton1551]

Shade Tree surgeon calls this a "Dad Jeans" Bike ,but also says how great it is.

[@Carreidas]

And white NBs to with the jeans?

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Andy! I’m currently on my 4th GS - triple black! Brilliant bike! 👍😀

[@bluesplayer59]

Always liked the GS , and nice to see a bloody centre stand .

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@docgreen4934]

Just a brilliant vid Andy. I’ve watched you tour on that bike so much over the past four years or so, I feel I’ve ridden the old girl myself! Anyway it’s still going strong but seems to spend a great deal of time in the garage nowadays - just let me know if you plan a sale, please. Love the comment about the knob moving the wind shield - a gem I thought. Yours aye, Alan

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No plans to sell Alan - sentimental value this one!! Although I could do with the space.....

[@MWS1960]

Jesus that’s a garage with some awesome toys...good for you !

[@DawaiMulders]

If you buy an 1150 now days you are buying a cult bike 😄. Everybody is weaving and stand still to watch an older model. So just have to wait a few years before the Beemer 1200 gets a smile on his face. Nice video thanks 👌

[@jezwinters1574]

Thanks for sharing the review... just took the plunge and bought one, instantly smitten 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@lord.onk99]

Great in depth review Andy, lovely bike, I like it a lot.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Many thanks as ever Ken!

[@martythompson6509]

You need to watch an Australian movie called "the castle"..... I had to get the Keys to The Kingswood, so I could move the Torana to get to the commodore......

[@Yeahbuddylightweigh]

Tell him he’s dreaming

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'll google it!

[@tonykisvardai2346]

It’s an absolute Aussie classic you have to watch the whole movie, it’s as Aussie battler as it gets.

[@tonyward1419]

As usual a brilliantly thorough review from you ...Great watch especially on this snowy wet day cheers TMF ...keep em coming

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure Tony - no snow here, just bucket fulls of rain 😔

[@iancharlton5530]

Visited motorcycle live yesterday and all the new adventure bikes where there and my mate who doesn’t own a gs turned around to me and said about them all it’s not a gs. Says it all really. 👍

[@Knockelhead]

What that protector in the Garage? The arm you pulled up. Love the idea!! Want in in my garden now so. They can't get my motor out

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Links (and discount) int the description - it's my "Guardsman" from Image 4 Security....

[@Banditmanuk]

Don't know if you remember a great journalist called Kevin Ash? Kevin was sadly killed on the 2012 BMW GS launch and at the time mystery surrounded the exact cause of the accident.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I was a huge fan - and wonder if that was the real reason the steering damper found its way into the GS (I was thinking of Kevin as I filmed that part).....

[@Banditmanuk]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I wonder?? Just reminded me of the incident when you showed the steering damper

[@MGman100]

Extremely envious when you were taking your bikes out of the garage at the beginning. Good very long term review, quite fancy one of these but think it will be too much after eventually passing my test. Interestingly my instructor doesn't seem to think so though.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hmm very interesting - I wouldn't recommend one as a first bike after passing your test personally - a bit too big and heavy (and powerful) IMO...

[@MGman100]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Not the power that would concern me but definitely the weight although a number of his more mature students have bought them as a first bike

[@AIBETTSYIA75]

Was looking at this generation GS but think Mr Flyer has hit it on the head. I've always thought it's an old boys bike. Very tempted by the S1000xr instead haha. Got a year left on a Tracer 900 Gt so I'll wait and see - Great video as always boss

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Did you see my XR in depth review??

[@AIBETTSYIA75]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Literally watching it now! Seems very similar to the Tracer but bigger haha

[@BibtheBoulder]

My ZZR1400 shifts pretty quickly but I don't think that qualifies it as a quickshifter...

[@RuytonXI]

Loved my 2005 R1200GS, but didn't love the cost of servicing nor the cost of replacing the ABS 'brick'. A known issue (by BMW) but as it was out of warrantee, eyewateringly expensive. Not sure I would pay the price of a new one now.

[@nitram157]

Forgot the rear hugger, I fitted one the same as you off of eBay to my 1250gs and it does make a big difference.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Bit of a pain to fit if I remember rightly!!

[@grhmnz4648]

Hollywood made a movie called Jewel of the Nile . Andy makes a short movie about his GS that I would call... The Jewel of Great Missenden .. No I don't own a GS but have an air cooled R1200R . If you like a certain bike then how old you are is immaterial . Back in the day a Guzzi 850T3 was probably classed as an old man's bike ,but I owned one when I was 23 yrs old .Loved it so much, despite poor quality electrics at times, that I shipped it out to NZ

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one!

[@raycollington4310]

This model and colour looks better IMO than the current offer, it also probably has fewer cost reduction initiatives and gimmicks like shift-cam and the like. The leaves are out early in Great Missenden this year! Cheers TMF

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Or late depending on your point of view - I actually recorded this video back in June.....(those were the days little did we know!)....

[@reinmansmith]

Interesting video as usual 👍 ... I’m having ‘tidy garage’ envy and feeling guilty about mine! 😱 How about a garage tour of the various racking/benches etc that you’ve used to keep it so tidy?? 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

A few people have asked for that - I think it's hilarious - it's just a blokes garage!

[@reinmansmith]

@@TheMissendenFlyer lol maybe so but it’s a darn sight tidier than mine! 😱 .. Could be a perfect lockdown video 👍 (you could be the tidy garage guru 😆)

[@DanielJLopes]

You forgot the very important mod for any offroad GS lover: the amazing kickstand enlargement plate :P //- click here to enlarge your .... kickstand -// hahaha EDIT: I been looking for those jeans, but not sure if Sportsbikeshop still ships outside of UK now post brexit :(

[@DanielJLopes]

@@maxflight777 DK

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don't see why Brexit would make any difference to where Sportsbike shop sells - besides we have a free trade agreement with the EU.....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@maxflight777 Sadly I have nothing to do with them - they don't sponsor me - I just think they are an excellent supplier with good prices and excellent service...

[@MrHDjojo]

@@TheMissendenFlyer the free trade applies only for the goods made or partly made in UK. I don't remember what was the percentage which should be UK made.

[@motosnape]

@@TheMissendenFlyer. There’s been plenty of online discussion about shipping and customs disruption that has been going on. Hopefully, it’s just temporary...

[@andyhutch8262]

In 2012, having only recently bought a new 1250 Suzuki, when out of the blue, a work collegue rang, fancy a ride out, just bought my self a new bike, we agreed a meet up place, I was there 1st, not knowing what bike he had bought, his last was a 1200 Triumph Trophy, he came in to view, 1200 GS BMW, you ride behind in case we pass any mates, they will crucify me, after about 60 miles, we pulled up in a car park at Sands End (north of Whitby), after giving each others bike the one over, I wasnt impressed, but didnt tell him, your turn to lead, on our way back over the moors, a natorious steep hill lie up front, I just couldnt believe the pick up of his bike, not speeding at all, but left me for dead up Blue Bank!! his bike has all the bells and whistles, large tank, he has toured with it down to Spain, across most of Europe, Norway, Sweden, he still has it in 2021, loves it, has it serviced at main dealers every time, had big break downs like rear diff letting go, and like you rear suspension, my Suzuki is long gone.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good story Andy! Thanks for watching once again.....

[@sporttourer5512]

hey , happy to share that : I Finally bought all new BMW R 1250 GS pro , Its super amazing ,, I had consulted with you regarding Buying GS vs Tiger 1200 few years back ..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You definitely made the right choice...congratulations and enjoy!

[@sporttourer5512]

@@TheMissendenFlyer THANKS ..

[@garethtemple6242]

Excellent video and a valuable endorsement for the advantages of longterm ownership over chasing the latest models. Interesting to see the various improvements you've made over the years. Will you ever change it for a newer model (or a different bike)?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Only if it drops to bits - there’s nothing wrong with my bike and it does all I need of it admirably!

[@dalehawkes1698]

Great video as always Andy, is the switch (red one) behind the right cylinder on ;the frame for the winter heated seat & you forgot the rear wheel hugger bud keep up the excellent work stay safe 👍👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes that's right Dale, that is the heated seat switch - and yes I did forget the hugger - a few people have mentioned it - sorry!

[@dalehawkes1698]

@@TheMissendenFlyer keep safe Andy . Go out spend some money you know you want a 1250 Gs or maybe the 1300 that supposedly be coming lol

[@kedwardsTWO]

glad you uploaded this. I'm going through a bike crisis in that I'm looking to replace my Honda CB650F with something adventure based. Currently torn between 3 bikes, this, a MotoGuzzi V85TT, and a KTM 890 Adventure. But then I keep wanting to throw none adventure bikes into the mix too, such as the Indian FTR1200. Dam, too many bikes, too little money to play with.

[@Nordkapp65]

Agree, one bike that I can lift up if it falls over, more robustly built than a 790, non shaft drive so leaning towards the 890. Just want KTM to bed in any issues in 2021!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good to have so much choice - let me help you...get the GS!

[@Nordkapp65]

@@TheMissendenFlyer er, maybe when you get it broken in with 50k miles and it sheds a few kilos

[@paulyflyer8154]

That opening sequence reminded of the Thunderbird 2 launch...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool!

[@LambChopRides]

Old farts... Certainly a bike for the over 50's 😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It’s not for kids!

[@keithwhite5657]

KTM 690 any day fun :) GS for the old couples the wrinkles :)

[@Hooner77]

Hey! I resemble that remark. If I had the money there would be one in my shop.

[@johnmorris5809]

Not long now then chops, I look forward to your “how to get a GS to 200bhp” series.

[@humanbeing1675]

I heard it so many times. A GS is for old guys etc.etc.. I said similar things a couple of years ago. After riding a GS I changed my mind. Its just a superb bike and worth every penny. I give a s**t what others think.

[@mook16v]

So very tempted to go for a GS this age but still the size and weight concerns me. Ok so the weight is down low but after a 10 hour day in the saddle, loaded with luggage and tired after a days riding I recon I’d drop it. Great video as always

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Feels so much lighter than any other big adventure bike I've ridden - including the F800 "baby" GS!

[@mook16v]

@@TheMissendenFlyer well just bit the bullet & just bought a 2014 R1200GS TE with all the bells and whistles 👍🏼

[@n22pdf]

Miss mine.. still would like another :) Excellent bikes.. agree about the gearbox especially putting into first, I always used to put mine in 1st before starting to avoid the big clunk etc