BMW K1200S review - road test. Can't stop laughing towards the end.

[@certifiedspeedfreak]

I've watched your videos for years but i have to say this is my favorite because of your laughter while your riding....i love it

[@FryChicken]

The incredible thing about BMW bikes is how they simply don’t age. This thing is as relevant and potent today as it was back then

[@FryChicken]

@cya1no The K1300S and late model K1200S fixed the big issues

[@FryChicken]

@cya1no I have a 2005 and have had every single issue they're known for, including the exotic ones: fuel sender is broken, rear bearing inside the differential turned to powder, ABS shit itself and was removed (2 ECUs working I at least have the speedometer), transmission shifter grenaded and I have a new transmission, the shifter bushing I replaced with bearings... I don't even remember everything. Still it's one of the greatest bikes ever made. If you need help with yours, we can get in touch and maybe you can experience for yourself how amazing this bike actually is

[@FryChicken]

@cya1no I have the bumblebee too. Whatever mechanic telling you these bikes like to self-immolate likely meant the plastic connector in the gas tank. Mine was replaced by the previous owner with a quick release system for which I am eternally grateful. Batteries next to the gas tank doesn't matter.... most bikes have their gas tanks over the hot engine and it's somehow not the end of the world. I'm not offering to come fix your bike, I'm offering my expertise in how/what to do. If you want to keep the bike in pieces in the garage, be my guest.

[@Eastsussexbiker]

Hi Russ 11 years ago !! I’ve just bought a k1300s and is such a good all rounder so much bike for the money. Mine is 10 years old and the 30th anniversary edition just awesome.

[@adeykitch1174]

Just bought one of these on an 05 plate with 13,000 miles. Hope I have half as much fun on it as you did. Not ridden for a couple of years since I had my Triumph sprint, so planning to take it extremely steady. Picking up some good pointers from studying your videos, thankyou.

[@graemewilliams1308]

Rode one for 9 years, great bike. Traded it on K 1300 R......

[@Jomppajomppanen]

Bought K1200S last week. Can't wait to get on the road. Great video. :)

[@buncobooth]

Same as me, I watched this like 50 times now I have a K12 and I love it :)

[@ajshaw1524]

I was lent one when my beemer was in for service and like you I could not stop giggling. It was bloody brilliant, and having given it a blast from Sunderland up the Northumberland spine road and back down the A1 I was seriously thinking of trading in the R11rs before common sense, and how quickly my licence would vanish kicked in!

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I still smile watching this :-)

[@GaryMCurran]

+RoadcraftNottingham Russ, I really would have liked to have seen the video from the 'longer' ride on that. Local dealer has one, a 2005, with under 20K miles on it for $5,000, which considering, I think is a very good price. All it would need would be bags, and I'd be set!

[@pgVeritas]

I did 88k miles on a 2006 model between Nov 2005 and Feb 2013 (though 2 years I was in Cyprus, and another 2 years I was spending loads of time (approx 2 years) in India on business. So the bulk was covered in around 5 years. I loved that bike. Mine was in Night Black and the amount of admiring glances from non-bikers was incredible. One beautiful girl in Central London when I was living there, said to me “wow, that looks like something James Bond would ride!” You can imagine what I wanted to say to her in riposte. I did, not at that precise time because we went out for a couple of years, but I told her my thoughts! I sat on a K1300S in my local BM dealer whilst my RT was getting its first MOT. It brought back all the great memories travelling across the UK going primarily on dates after getting divorced after 20 years. Your video brought those memories back even stronger, thank you.

[@fredolsen4219]

Can't even have a roof on your car mate haha your a star! Entertaining and just simple mooching on bikes with a bit of banter just what I like, officially subscribed!

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

It cut through the air surprisingly well. didn't notice any vibes but I only did a brief ride on it.. May be best to check forums or look for a long term test. Cheers.

[@Goprosurfandbike]

I ride a K1300GT every now and then and even with the de-tuned touring engine it always puts a smile on my face whenever I take it out.

[@darkdestroyer6634]

Keep coming back to this video, reminds me of my K12S (same colour as in the vid) and K13S and just how much fun they were. Maybe it's time to buy another one! You're absolutely right, a great bike; is practical while also bringing a smile to every ride BUT you can find yourself commuting at higher than anticipated speeds.

[@EEEBA1]

Dark Destroyer How is the reliability on these bikes? I'm looking at trading in my VFR1200 for one. Thank you

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

So pleased you agreed with me and like the bike. Thanks for the feedback. We've got an immaculate black one in the shop for sale now. :-)

[@NoKozak]

I love the way how smooth you overtake

[@motonerd14]

This was an amazing bike. I found the riding position to be quite good, if a little aggressive. Almost bought the 1300S but went with the Concours 14 instead, since I wanted the adjustable windscreen and bigger bags. Still makes a good touring bike for shorter trips.

[@dazsyvo8499]

thinking of changing my vfr 800 for one of these things. thank for the most honest review and probably the most truffle on utube

[@MrCupra79]

The best test-drive report ever!!!!!!!!

[@fil668]

Just spent nearly 2 hours watching your videos and have subscribed. Keep the great vids coming. Love it if you did a video on a Blackbird, i've had one for 6 months now and love it.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I feel so lucky to be able to ride any bike I want on the planet, I love my job and doing KZbiny stuff. :-)

[@gaschimps]

I’m jealous now - sold mine a couple of years ago - May have to keep my ear to the ground ready for this summer - I’ve had Ducati’s and other super quick bikes but this K1200s has the magic dust ...

[@stellarb67]

How many miles did you clock on your 1200s? Looking at one with 47k miles.... seems high to me, but know they run forever with proper maintenance

[@gaschimps]

@@stellarb67 I would say with regular thorough maintenance these will last a v long time. I didn’t clock that many miles - I’d say approximately 10k over a 2 year period

[@hounddf2]

Thank you for all of your videos, they have been a great help... really enjoyed watching/listening to you enjoy this bike... and especially opening her up a bit from 3:00 onwards :D

[@Abelieverintruth]

BMW makes the finest sports tour machine. The benchmark for all motorcycles.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I didn't but we have an immaculate black one in for sale now and I rode that. Since this upload, the BMW is still an excellent bike but doesn't have the same feel for me now because my Tuono eclipses it. Funny how things change. Whoever gets one of these though will adore it!

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@mcgoo721 It's actually quite legal in the UK. The only possible offences are driving without due care or dangerous driving if you're going too fast or endangering others. It's a shame some other countries don't allow it.

[@wesoly757]

What a beauty. I know what you experienced and why you were laughing constantly I have my f800s for last 3 years and still i'm smyling to myself riding that bike. It's not as powerfull as your bike but still gives plenty pleasure. Stay safe

[@deandoucette7206]

5 weeks ago I purchased an '06 K1200S. Your review was very influential in my decision. Now that I have put 3000 kms on the bike, I can say I heartily agree with your impressions. It is a compromise between power and comfort. More than anything, it is FUN. My last bike was the '07 K1200GT and while this bike is not as comfortable, it is more fun. Thank-you for the review.

[@Therod911]

I know this is 8 years ago alraeady, but I'm looking at the choice between a Yamaha FJR 1300 or a K1200S. Reliability issues that I read online concerning ABS faults and radiatior issues only solveable by a BMW dealer make me lean towards the FJR 1300 more. Did you have any problems during your ownership if I may ask?

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I sold it pretty soon after. My choice would be the FJR

[@KravWarrior]

Really enjoyed that. Great reviews mate, keep em coming!

[@hounddf2]

I will look forward to seeing those! Thanks again!

[@PanDemic]

Haha, ive just realised why you zoom in and out! Nice touch! hehe

[@genloc]

@finnsk3: I'm 6' 4" and have been riding a K1200S for the past 3 years and still love it. I added a MRA Vario screen which is superb and completely did away with the wind buffering. I also added a Blue Flame end can which sounds similar to the Remus one in this video :)

[@troycambo]

good vid. wow sounds like you were having a lot of fun. this is the lambo of bikes so no wonder.

[@jondoe8904]

Love this video - seriously considering getting one when I am no longer skint in a few years time!

[@triumph157]

just wanted to know if you are allowed to wear your motobike helmets when you go into service stations to pay,we cant in australia.

[@elego49]

Well, now I know you ride as crazy in the UK as you do in the US. Nice short video, thanks!

[@magnificumimperium8392]

What a bloody place to do a test drive with a BMW !

[@philippayne6655]

I have a K1200r and I sometimes get addicted to the engines induction roar. I find it's not as quick to turn as my previous r1200gs or as comfy but it does put a smile on your face. may be changing it soon though as I want something more suited to big miles :(

[@TankToChest]

Induction roar? What… Do you mean the cams…

[@DanBarns92]

Sounds amazing mate, nice review - looks like alot of fun ;-)

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@barrkel ...Something may have gone wrong during the editing process, I haven't got a clue what you mean!...(well spotted) ;-)

[@sidneylol]

Hi Russ, just watched this for the first time and I was laughing with you . What a bike that is!!! It sounded like the daddy of all engines, ripping away like it's what it does best lol. Great video mate, so funny. And the big sigh at the end as if to say, "I'm exhausted after all this excitement!" haha. Hope all is well pal. Ride safe, Stu

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

Thanks, I love doing things like this, I may have a newer shape Fazer 600 and a cross plane crank R1 coming up in a review soon. :-D

[@Davidlouis3]

Brilliant mate good to be proud, you only live one keep smiling and enjoy, I love the bike I think il start looking at one 👍

[@Davidlouis3]

Watched your vids on DAS courses were really helpful passed my tests. Went from Honda 125cbr to bandit 650 to gsx 1250 fa within 2 months your vids helped good luck

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

Well done and thanks for watching. ☺

[@Davidlouis3]

@@RoadcraftNottingham thanks keep up the good work, I’m in Glasgow could be doing with you up here 👍

[@blakehughes4488]

I have a K1200R Sport and I'm thinking about upgrading to the K1300S or the S1000RR, not sure which yet but I don't even feel the *need* to do so, just want something a bit newer than the 07 I have. I can't say enough for the ESA, ABS, and heated grips. Simply awesome.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@fil668 Thanks. I've actually owned 4 Blackbirds. Being a shorty I found the lean to the bars a little uncomfy but fantastic engines!

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@fil668 I've had carb, injection, analogue and digital speedo. I found the carb model much smoother but loved the large digital speedo. Best try one out and see what you think. I had the seat lowered slightly and flattened out as it can get a bit uncomfortable over time due to the middle of the seat pressing on your prostate.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

If you rode the BMW I think you'd be pleasantly surprised. Granted, the ZZR deffo looks better but only the BMW and my Tuono V4 have made me smile like this. :-)

[@ijsman]

Lovely ride but what a roundabouts!!

[@nbiorac]

just a proof of how much im watching your vids...from 1:15 - 1:40 i know that street as much as i would if ive lived there :)) lol. Keep up man!

[@markgr1nyer]

@RoadcraftNottingham How've they changed it? I did a practise session on the pad for it last month but found it really easy, the swerve been the perfect example of smooth riding been faster than aggresive riding. Stopping after was easy, it was all easy, but then again I have got 36,000+ miles under my belt on my cbr.......fancy a straight swap, the K1200 for my 125 lol

[@gingerrussell]

Wow! That's a lot of bikes in your garage and on the drive. That BMW sounds GREAT! Was that an SV I spotted in the garage? How do you find it? I recently got rid a 600 Bandit (my first bike) and I'm looking for a new ride. I want something sporty but also something that won't break the bank on insurance! Considered the SV but a lot of people seem to find them quite slow. May I ask your opinion on them?

[@DaytonCarCare]

It's a good looking bike. I like the livery.

[@Frammore]

your vids are amazing!

[@brianzaborowski2724]

Sharp looking bike and looks very clean for 21k miles.

[@JoshTilley121]

@RoadcraftNottingham Can you do a ride/ review on a Ducati Monster 697 or 796? It'd surely be similar to the Triumph Street Triple wouldn't it?

[@bikerbaz1000]

I got my 07 K1200s a month ago having ridden an R1 5vy for the past few years. Akraprovic can fitted which sounds animal. It a great bike on the twisties. My only comment would be I fnd it a bit choppy at 2000 revs in low gear. (I commute on it daily and find this apsect of it a bit frustrating as forever clutching!) Do you know if this can be mapped out? I dont think the Akraprovic was dyno jetted but Ive been told by BMW the sensors woulkd adapt automtically to the aftermarket can. Let me know re mapping if you can. Thanks and enjoy

[@roadsonboard]

Would have been nice if you could have taken the longer route home and covered some twisty sections to really round it off nicely.I like these big bruisers and would love to try one to move me away from big sports bikes.

[@blindfredy6128]

That's exactly how you should ride in traffic and on the open road. Good review, subscribed.

[@MrUltraworld]

I have riden 3 BMW's including this one & I always walk away impressed. The power is turbine like & is happy to ride along at low rpm. The exhaust note on this bike is delicious. A very nice machine. I don't know why I don't have one. I have a spotless '93 V-Max that touches all the right buttons. I know it handles poorly, bias ply tires are all that fits, it has a measly 4 gallon fuel tank & gets less that 25 mpg. But I love it. But a BMW is in my future.

[@moonkef]

Hi great vid seen it before but wondering if you can share impressions compared to a carb blackbird?

[@pencilcoil]

Hey Russ. great channel, keep the videos coming. Can I ask how this K1200s compared to the FJR1300 that you did a video about? I have owned an FJR before and was slightly underwhelmed with its power if I am honest. I am looking for a sports tourer with real grunt. Did this K1200 shine in that department compared to the FJR? Thanks

[@Tigadee00]

Were you so pleased solely because of the sound or because of the whole riding experience with the bike?

[@duoam]

hey! I have a R1200GS and thinking about get a k1300S ou R. What's your comment about it? I'm no used to ride a sports bike and always have the big trail kind of motorcycle. In the end, do you still have the k1200s? Thanks, from Brazil!

[@fil668]

@RoadcraftNottingham I'm 6' 1" so the reach isn't a problem. Although the last last owner must have been "vertically challenged" as the seat padding has been lowered!! Where yours carb or FI? How did they compare to the K1200s? Cheers, Phil.

[@ianroberts8171]

Did you ever get that longer run out. How about a review?

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I'm not sure. I can only review bikes that are owned by friends or bikes currently in our shop. Sorry. :-(

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

@marcus100ify100 ..Actually, just sold the BMW and taking a 2004 ZZR1200 in P/X. Looks like a new review coming up!!

[@ZeFleischwaffe]

fantastic sound. very deep and agressive

[@MrBeboopman]

Back looking at your excellent vids again.... its newish bike time again!!!! anyway could you give an opinion on a gtr14 against this k12/13, if you've ridden the gtr14 recently... anyway best regards as usual.

[@MemoryLaneCinema]

This is a big bike. Does it feel big and what it your opinion on the kardan? Guess it has one. -Norway

[@PNH63]

I was always taught in stationary traffic to never sit directly behind a car so close as you do because you have no safe exit if you see someone in your mirror that may not be stopping. If you are a bit back and to one side you can accelerate away. Can you advise on this, thanks

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I've never seen a situation where someone saw they were going to be rear ended and escaped. Watch my upload on how not to get rear ended for the explanation. Biggest real danger is the car accidentally hitting reverse.

[@PNH63]

@@RoadcraftNottingham ok thanks , that’s why I stay a little further back. Love your stuff

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I often take bikes home (when I like the look of them) It's a perk of the job. :-D The guy who bought it loves it still.

[@finnsk3]

Have you ridden a CBR1100xx? I am thinking of going to a K1200S or K1300S but I don't want to take a downgrade in power. I definitely could go with more power over the CBR and definitely something that has more feel in the suspension, over 200km/h the cbr1100xx just floats, there is no feedback through the suspension. I am a tall guy, 6"5' and I want a bike that doesn't squash you up like a super sport but I also like to push it hard in the corners and keep up with the super sport guys.

[@sammy6blades]

Have you ridden a ZZR1400? I'm curious to hear some feedback on the ZZR1400 v. the K1300S as far and comfort level and overall feel. Most reviews I have seen are oriented to the track/race perspective. That's not really my main goal. I'd appreciate any feedback you're willing to give.

[@choppergirl]

I like the styling on the S much better than the GT... is the fairing between the two interchangable.?

[@MrDJRadeEEYo]

excelent bike. looks like you added some things to it

[@gaschimps]

I loved my K1200s so much, I purchased a 1:18 scale model of it too - am I a saddo??

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

Noop! 😂

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I think the fazer is an excellent bike too, the BMW is just mental, right choice! lol

[@Onejob2001]

It sounds so gorgeous.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

I suppose the BMW surprised me as others I'd ridden were relatively boring. Took the Toblerone out today and loved it! :-)

[@paulbws125]

no problem mate i asked if it was more fun than the toblerone cos u seemed to have a lot more fun on the beemer.

[@IGCNightmare]

Absolutely beautiful bike

[@petervogelsanger1954]

Know the feeling, riding my K1200S in Tasmania, perfect roads for it but have to be careful with all the trucks & tourist :)

[@Mrbikertomtom]

I didn't want that video to end! Haha, awsome!

[@cdreid99999]

Thanks for this video you convinced me to buy a k1200s and holy shit... this bike is amazing. The horsepower is just STUPID. You can leave this bike in ANY gear and ...never change.

[@1100HondaCB]

You should see the roads in Portsmouth and surrounding areas. As for roadrage, yes it happens often.

[@Temmbbb]

I noticed that when you come to traffic lights and there is only 2 lanes, you pass many cars cutting yourself next to first car. Is that allowed in England? Because its not allowed in Finland. I like your videos, keep em coming!

[@davidkirkham6941]

do you think these will have the relaibilty of the old k100rs bmw over big milage examples ?

[@bitcloud122]

I was like that when I got my FZ8. I was amazed by the power coming from a 650 cruiser.

[@bmu1982]

"Owning a bike shop's got to be one of the best things in the World, you get to ride everything". Next week's review, Nicole Kidman... Great review - do you think it'd be a good choice for a 4ish hour commute twice per week?

[@matthewthewizkid]

Got me thinking when you mentioned wind buffeting. I know most people will laugh at this but I am having my moped this May. It has no screen so at the new regulations of 28mph would I experience any wind buffeting? Or flies? ;) Haha! Serious question about the budgeting through, I

[@Rocky1138]

I'm not from England, but I've read that you're still supposed to move around the centre circle on those mini-roundabouts as though they're raised and curbed. Is that correct?

[@SykeMed]

+Rocky1138 Only on your driving test.

[@johnnyveganite9141]

+Rocky1138 yes it is the law

[@jacobporter4623]

in my car I will do this religiously, however on your bike it isn't a good idea to go completely round them. as you dive one way to go round them then the other to straighten up, the initial dip signals to most cagers you are going left. don't go completely over them but I'm afraid it is just safer to pretty much straight line them regardless of legality

[@simonhep]

What's the thing on the top of your right glove?

[@timorgano]

Just by the laughs I think it would be safe to say you enjoy it

[@TimKelleherCorp]

Great Video - What are your thoughts on the clutch? I just picked up an 06 and driving it in NYC is a bit much working it in traffic. Your comments helped me decide on the K1200 instead of the R1200 - Thanks!

[@mcgoo721]

@altratronic Yeah I've heard that, and I was told people in cars and such get pissy about it. Which I never understood why they'd be getting mad; would they rather have another vehicle stopped up front of them?

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

Yeah, people have mentioned that, must be a problem with Powerdirector 9. Thanks for bringing this to my attention :-D

[@ThunderWindz]

i have ridden the ninja for a year now ridden 7000miles on it, never had a problem , its a nice bike for beginner. imo u dont outgrow them that fast, i love mine and plenty of power on the country/city roads to play with. The cbr should be a nice choice too.

[@01superstardj]

Nice bike some nice smooth over takes, but my mate got 3 points for running over a mini round about ;-)

[@MohakAdav]

love the sound

[@Bengal7InChicago]

I just bought a 2005 K1200S, same color as the one in the video. All I can say is that the emotions that I have developed for this bike makes it feel like I'm cheating on my wife. I am in loooove