BMW R1300GS vs R1200GS. Is it worth upgrading? I take a quick spin to find out.....

[@andrewmanahan2469]

Hi Dave. I took one out for a test drive in January .. was supposed to be a short run but got lost - 2 hours later … bought one !! It would be my 7th ever BM but had a Tiger 900 at the time. I also wrestled with the ‘is it twice the bike’ .. but you can’t think of it like that .. I never looked forward to riding the Tiger like I look forward to the GS. Go for it!

[@WheelieGoodTV]

I recognise all of those feelings Andrew. I’m afraid the BMW dealership here has soured me somewhat so I definitely won’t be buying one but who’s to say I won’t buy a used one from another motorcycle shop in the future?🤔

[@andrewmanahan2469]

I'm in the UK Dave and Wollaston the dealer here was very good. Keep it up. All the best. @@WheelieGoodTV

[@Fernando90054]

I was offered a sweet deal to exchange my 2023 GSA for this and I went for it. I really wasn’t needing the extra mileage of the GSA gas tank. This is an hiper modern bike, slimmer and the torque is fantastic. It really makes the difference that I wanted but wasn’t there on the GSA. I’m glad I took the plunge. I am delighted this engine changes the ride to a point that I was needing it to be and now she’s not the fat girl on my garage anymore. I went for the Trophy version despite I don’t go off-roads with it except to do safe gravel roads in the dry weather. It mounts the Anakee tyres which I already had in my GSA, they’re are very grippy and I love the looks of the bike with it. My wife loved the bike when we road tested it, so decision was made after all things were considered. We only live once! We better make to be worth it! Cheers and thanks for the video ✌️✌️

[@WheelieGoodTV]

That’s good to hear! Enjoy your new wheels lucky fella. 👌🏍️

[@AdyRider]

Good appraisal Dave. So many of us ‘don’t’ want to like but it will be the next GS for many of us Thank you

[@davidrandall266]

Fantastic video and my wife was in absolute tears at the beginning "don't be like Dave" as the description was apparently me down to a T. Thanks again for another top quality vlog. All the best, Dave.😂😂

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🥴🤣 glad to hear it entertained. 🙏🏍️🎥

[@corujariousa]

I have an itch and all these videos are not helping me at all. 😅😅 Notes: 1) I find the headlight hideous; 2) The tank compartment (top) could be roomier; 3) not having Android/Apple connection nor illuminated control buttons in a premium bike, is totally unacceptable.

[@damiansheridan9830]

Truely a stunning bike to ride, agreed pictures do not do this bike justice feels much bigger in person. Easiest bike I’ve driven i honestly feel I’d be more comfortable putting this around the race track than my old r1. Power and control topped off with comfort 🫶. Fantastic review Dave really enjoyed it 👏👏

[@herrdirektor1969]

Good review! I did upgrade from a 2016 gsa, but not to the 13 GS. For each his own. Too many things I don't like about this one. Awaiting the rain to stop and start my maiden voyage on my new 1250 RT. 😎

[@gsd32i]

I test rode the 1300....to be honest I wasn't blown away. The electric screen was very good and very effective at reducing the wind blast. The QS certainly wasn't miles better than my 1250 triple black. The 1300's gearbox made a noise at slow speed like an old minis straight cut gearbox. I didn't notice any significant power upgrade to mine, which has had the ecu flashed and is pretty quick. Preferred the sit in of my 1250 compared to the sit on of the 1300. A better handing bike and more flickable the new one certainly is. But no where near improved enough to make me run to my dealer and take a hit on my bike. I wanted to like the bike so so much but I simply wasn't blown away. The 1300 will no doubt bring younger folk into the BMW family, as it is more hip n trendy...and better. For me though, it has lost its rugged GS ness and it's as though the 1000XR has had a one night stand with the 1250 resulting in this new baby. I look forward to the new GSA, especially if it's a 1400. Ride safe

[@stevedriver1376]

I think the motorcycle industry has lost the plot with regard to how much these bikes actually cost. I welcome the move to smaller (and more affordable) capacity machines. I'm certainly enjoying my CB500X as much as I did my 4 K Series Beemers.

[@Delboysparody]

Great real life review and great cinematography as always.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Appreciated Peter.🙏

[@MotoCurmudgeon]

The craic was 90 on that one Dave, without a doubt! That was hilarious, informative, and all around entertaining. You had me wanting to sell my heavily modified RE 650 GT to start saving for a 1300 by the end of the video. Well done Sir.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣 Glad you enjoyed it mate.

[@neilurquhart8622]

Great review Dave, several viewers mention the BMW servicing costs……are you able to elaborate on say the regular scheduled costs or new brake pads…..etc?

[@WheelieGoodTV]

I’m a bit fed up of BMW service costs after my shocks went so I didn’t investigate any further about costs for this bike I’m afraid. 🥴

[@edtxw01]

Great personal review, I haven't tried one yet but I'm sure I would like it. However, my 2.5yr old 1250GS is fantastic and has many more miles in it to come. Yes, I'd live a 1300GS but the price is eye-watering.

[@Moto_APT]

Firstly, loved the presentation format, good fun and extremely well put together. Secondly, me thinks you are truly smitten! Checked it out in the local dealer and it is definitely still a GS. Finally, it is decision time v bike value for the old GS, keep forever ot trade up. Skip the 1250 and do it as it sounds like you could get caught in a what if....? Cheers Arthur

[@AuldhannRua]

The first taste is free lol, that's how they get you 😂 I agree it's an amazing bike but the price is something else. Its on lotto win territory for me. Great video as usual Dave.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Cheers Dylan.

[@TSH2020]

No rear light is a big safety disappointment for me and not keen on the front light. Plastic panniers are too expensive, leg position is a bit cramped for taller riders and lastly the price is way too high. Will stick with my 1250 GSA which has more than enough power for me. There are other bikes out there, twin cylinder, which offer better value both price wise and torque. Looking forward to both the next vlog and what choice you make for your next bike. Be well and ride safe. Trev👍

[@adinovak2352]

Have you ridden the bike?

[@paulyflyer8154]

Yes the dangerous rear lights would be a deal breaker for me aswell as the lack of presence.

[@MarkATaylor]

It’s really interesting how we’re changing our minds. I shared your initial thoughts when it came out but it has grown on me having now seen it in the flesh. I haven’t ridden yet but will do soon. Thing is though, it’ll be the thick end of another £10k on top of my current 2 year old 1250GS which was a lot of money then, so we’ll see 🤔

[@henryroscoe2464]

A number have ridden it and said that they felt they were sitting on it not in it. I felt the same way when I tried a R1200 RT!

[@boblynch7535]

In reference to your1300GS question. I bought a 900 Tiger new and shipping, $900, dealer set up, $900, doc fee, $400 (what the hell is doc fee?), then tax of course. I would recommend waiting a bit and finding one used.

[@rodasrodas]

Thank you for the fun video. I have a 2011 and at this time I really dont need more. I mostly use it in town. But, like you, of course I like the new 1300GS. It is a smoother GS. ( Dont test drive the MS V4S though ... it is even better ! ) But if I decide to upgrade It would probably be a used 1250 and keep it below the 20k euros. From the 1250 to the 1300 the differences are smaller, the 1250 will still be a nice upgrade coming from an old oil cooled GS.. I will wait for 2025 and see how the used prices settle here in Portugal.

[@johnmacdonald1878]

The 64000 dollar question. Or 30 to 34000 dollar question. I am still very happy with my R1200 GS. Looks not a problem. The difference in price for a similar spec bike is daunting. I’m riding a GS so when I decide it’s time for an upgrade it will most likely be a GS. The RT is probably a better touring bike. I like the option to go and have a bit of an adventure. Occasionally. While still retaining most of the long distance road touring comfort. So the GS suits me. Is it worth upgrading? Depends. For me not yet.

[@paulabraham8724]

You have completely shown that my decision to refuse a ride on one when my 1250 was last in for service was a wise one. Apart from the hideous light everything looks perfect. Avoiding BMW showrooms will remain high on my list of self defence strategies to ensure continuing financial wellbeing. I give you less than six months before one is in your garage at home.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣 It is an addiction.

[@HW-kf7hi]

It does look good from every angle except the front. I didn't like the asymmetrical headlights on the old gs either when they came out but now they look normal. Everyone does say though that the most off putting thing is the price. Manufactures these days try to talk about monthly payments instead to hide it (usually still with a big deposit - more smoke and mirrors). Personally I feel like PCP is more like a rental agreement than owning which I don't like. Call me old fashioned but I like to own it outright and feel it's mine (and I know you said in a previous vid they don't even do PCP in Ireland). Perhaps you should consider a Tiger 1200 GT Pro? That lowers it's self at low speed too and isn't that tall. A lot cheaper too I think (well under £20k here in England anyway). Worth a test ride I think Dave now you are a Triumph owner already.

[@moonrakercbr1649]

Going to a launch evening at the local Canberra dealer this week with full resistance shield up, as I really think the new 900GS is all I really need and is $10k AUD less. Plus my existing panniers will fit… which is important….. isn’t it?

[@norriemasson4080]

SO when do you collect yours Dave ?

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣🤣😮‍💨

[@michaelmclarney1994]

I know how you feel, I have the same problem! I keep saying to myself that I need to reduced the number of bikes I have and then I start thinking what else I can buy when I free up the space in my garage 😂😂

[@rideswithrichie]

Awesome Review. Loved the introduction… Class….

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🙏🤣 Cheers Richie. I still haven’t forgot about the sugar road…..😉🇮🇪

[@Shane-ln5zz]

Funny the amount of reviewers I saw that said they hated it until they loved it,

[@davidreed6817]

Great honest review there Dave, would you have purchased one if you hadn't bought the new Triumph??

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Nope. I’m waiting for the Africa Twin before I make any decisions 🥴🤯

[@Costema37]

Hello Dave great review and funny which is refreshing. Have you considered the V4S or test rode one. Just wondered what your thoughts are with the comparison. Cheers Matt

[@WheelieGoodTV]

I haven’t Matt, only because of Ducati renowned reliability issues though. I’ve got my sights set on the new Africa Twin however.😍👌

[@Costema37]

@@WheelieGoodTV Can’t go wrong with Honda, I have a 21 Model GW bagger I love it. I just fancy something a bit more sporty. I will keep the GW for now, narrowed it down to 1300GS (Green one) MSV4S or the Pikes Peak, but the PP are a lot of money although do look really nice. My son has a 23 GSA 1250 and it is really good apart from the gear box. No sure how much better the new GS gear box is. The MS is silky smooth as is the quick shifter.

[@GSHants]

I’m really liking that triple black, I hate the headlight, and brake lights incorporated into indicators, and those radar plates, just ugly, But having only sat on one in Kearys oh…it was very hard to walk away…but I did…..for now😊great review Dave thanks

[@adrianleach1670]

Great video/review. I tested the 1300 when my 1250 was in for a service. Like you, not a big fan of the looks and for me, not an improvement in areas I value most. Don't need the radar or ride height lowering and I've already got the TFT dash and heated stuff. Front end feel better than the 1250 but overall (for me) not a significant advance on the 1250 so keeping mine for a while longer...

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Yes if I had a 1250 I wouldn’t even be looking around. 🥴👌

[@adrianleach1670]

@@WheelieGoodTV There are some good deals on the 1250, so if you want the TFT dash and warranty plus avoiding new model teething probs; it may be worth some haggling.

[@ivanrushtonthelonewolfrides]

Great video as always Dave. I’d love one but out of my price bracket. I’ve sold my 1250 for something else all will be revealed soon. You also converted me to DJI kit

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Sounds good! 😉🤔

[@patrickdawson6364]

Hi Dave, on the looks.. old lrish saying "you don't look the heart when your stoking the fire"😜

[@jimmyrottencauli]

Thought that was “You don’t look at the mantle piece when you’re poking the fire” …… you on the Guinness 😂

[@splodge57]

If ever there was a make where you need the warranty it's BMW. Especially on a new model. Take care.

[@scottyuk]

Ive been waiting for this video since you first had a rant about it 😂

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣👌

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

It doesn't exactly have the sex appeal of my FJR, but it's about time I tried a GS and this may just fit the bill. Great vid 👍

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣👌Cheers buddy, hope you’re well. Love your vids but sometimes frightened to watch because I know that I’ll take out another bank loan. 😬🤯

[@VRFlightSimGuy]

@@WheelieGoodTV haha thanks mate, well after watching this excellent video, you may just be getting your own back😁Test ride booked for next weekend 👀

[@MrWibbleman]

Would like one but the price is so high and it’s only a toy for me.. will stick to my tracer 9 and try a 1250gs when I find the one I like. Thanks for the video

[@mikerider58]

Hi Dave, terrestrial TV are missing out by not having your blend of Geordie/Irish wit presenting a major motorcycle show. You're truly gifted mate. Wonderful video but you know fine well BMW will have another model out next year. I'm a guitarist 🎸 and fender bring out a new Stratocaster every year.😅

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣👌Very kind Mike. I’ll take that!

[@flatcapcaferacer]

Nicely done!

[@mphigham1963]

Ah fabulous video as always Dave, by eck lad I did some chuckling to myself all the way through. Cheers Pal 😄😄

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Thanks bud, I had to do something a bit different with this vid since I was the last in line out of all my KZbin peers to test ride this. Glad you enjoyed it. 🥴👌

[@MadGingerCat]

Have you tried the alternatives Dave, Triumph, Ducati, Honda etc. ?

[@WheelieGoodTV]

No but I am doing in the near future. I can’t wait to test the new Africa Twin. 👌😜

[@pauljdunne784]

I have watch every new video on the new 2024 africa twin 19inch front wheel model @@WheelieGoodTV

[@Life_a_bike]

How is the windscreen? Being round now…

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Windscreens on both bikes are superb. 👌

[@Themotograndpa]

Well Dave have you placed your order then ? Great vid mate 😀

[@WheelieGoodTV]

No, but I am doing the lotto on a more regular basis now.🤗

[@silewis65]

Maybe this video should be titled “How I talked myself into the new GS1300 😂 a stunning bike in the flesh, not ridden one ..but know I’d want one if I did 🧐 love the production style on this one Dave 🙌🏼👍🏼

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Cheers Simon, yes I had to do something a bit different with this since I was so late in the long line of vloggers to try it.

[@peterbrewer6104]

It’s only a matter of time til the new GS will be gracing your stable. We’d like the green one with the gold wheels, but I’d have to have the fancy drop down suspension, coz I’m a short arse 😅

[@WheelieGoodTV]

I won’t pay the price Peter. Not a chance mate….

[@peterbrewer6104]

@@WheelieGoodTV Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but one day 😉

[@mwng5186]

so looking down you like the length but are not so impressed with the girth? Im trying one out tomorrow, ive never ridden any gs. Will it spoil me as I cant see me buying one, maybe an older 12500 or 1200. ive got a nine t, a daytona 675r, a ccm supermoto and a superscoot already.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

It’s an incredible bike to ride and looks are subjective. Personally I prefer the 1250 GS to look at but the 1300 GS to ride. Good luck. 👌

[@tonygolding2274]

Great vid Dave , the 1300 defo looks better in the flesh , I’m trying really hard not to get a spin on one cause I’d probably have to have one 🤣

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣👌 Cheers Tony.

[@johnmacdonald1878]

I used to call “Which colour do you like?” The first soft close.

[@forestboy54]

Great vid as always mate👍 Definitely agree it looks far better in the flesh than in pics. However still struggling with the front and the one I priced up was £25k nearly. Too much for me the new AT is on my radar now nearly £7k less.😮 FB

[@WheelieGoodTV]

The AT is also top of my wish list. 😍😉

[@itchyscratchy8216]

Probably would wait for the GSA to come out. Maybe it will quite differently. Who knows 👍🤔

[@matthewcocker4940]

Would be tempted, if I had no mortgage and buckets of spare cash. PCP not for me. On one of your early videos you recommend some socks, what were they? I believe they were recommended by the horsey types of your household

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Yes those socks are brilliant. I’ve been wearing them all winter when out. Good memory as they are indeed horsey socks and they’re called ‘Oxer socks’. I think there’s a link in the blurb of all my videos.?🤔

[@PDCRed]

Great review. I'd be tempted to buy one, service it myself and keep it for 15 years. BMW servicing costs place the overall cost into the stratosphere.

[@loneridar]

Three head light will be scrapped in gen 2/3 . Suzuki did something similar with the vstrom a few years ago and quickly changed it. Control the urge dave never buy a gen 1 of any product!

[@jimmyrottencauli]

I'll be leaving it 18 months before I upgrade, initial teething problem should be sorted. But with me and bikes I know I a free coffee at my local dealer could prove expensive.🤣

[@DavidNewmanDr]

Do all new bikes have complicated controls and displays? I see you had to do a lot of poking around. I did a test ride a week ago on an Energica Experia. I couldn't work out how to switch modes even though I'd been shown. It is something you learn when you own a bike, but I wish there was a standard user interface for all bikes.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Yes I’m an old school button pusher rather than menu flicker in fairness. I’m sure I’d get used to it but it does take your eyes off the road far too long which is never a good thing.

[@marcheighton6436]

And I bet the service costs a Nd spares match. I wonder how much the rear damper for this one would cost to replace hmm!!!

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Good point! 🤯

[@brianfarrelly7151]

If you got a good price on your 1200GS, it’d be a no brainer but that’s the real catch and you’d have to buy a whole new set of luggage, adding to the overall cost. Do some extra filming and go for it !

[@mnicp01]

"That's the home truth"... "I dismissed it from any urges of lust in me".... I swear, the Irish are hypnotic masterpieces from birth.... I am ready to buy, and shop from the "top of the tree" , and "see what color socks she is wearing"... and I don't even like BMW bikes! If I owned the BMW motor co, I would swoop this gent up, and pay him by the word!!!!

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣🤣 Very well observed. Thank you 🙏

[@gogathome]

Maybe Kearys in Cork would do a better deal for you Dave 😋

[@12masterr]

She also comes with a 6 gear! Lol

[@josephSF]

I find the knee-jerk reaction to this bikes "looks" very interesting. Boomers don't like change. This is a modern evolution of the GS and, in my opinion, changed for the better in every way, including looks.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

All subjective and indeed everyone is entitled to their opinion. 👌🏍️

[@MotoTourIreland]

Dave.... buy it. Why not?

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Eerrrrm the €32k is a slight problem. 🤣👌

[@MotoTourIreland]

@@WheelieGoodTV Don't I know it. 😄 Surely BMW do PCP for the gigantic cost? As you know I ride older machines, partly by choice but mostly due to monies.

[@stephan457]

I am not sure if I can trust your opinion, when you drive mile after mile 120 (miles?) constantly in the 5 gear and you don’t recognize this…

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣 I like 5th gear.

[@moto_tom69]

Somebody just bought a new bike, even though he doesn`t know yet 😄

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣🤣👌

[@robynmolle5842]

I would love to upgrade my 1200 to 1300 but I’m not ready to drop $20 K doing it

[@NeilFitz]

It was always going to be a fantastic bike to ride, but if it doesn't make you stop and stare at it then it's a no no.

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Yep my thoughts exactly Neil.

[@SouthWest-jj8yu]

I’ve avoided going to have a look because I know and my wife knows it would most likely end with me buying it and I really really don’t need it.

[@stewartgrant1963]

I reckon you'll have a real dilemma in a year's time when used ones start appearing....?

[@graemeshaw9716]

Haha so you have ordered one Dave 😂

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Absolutely not Graeme.

[@terrydaniel8698]

Going by yourself for 750 under it looks the same

[@PaulBradley-i9i]

Before you spend your hard earned cash, I've only one thing to say: "Hope you are aware of the very poor setup of the rear light's". I can speak from owning a 1250 gsa (2022) that has been modified with Weiser Technik light's front & rear. Over to you Dave!!!!!

[@WheelieGoodTV]

Yes Andy ‘TMF’ was just commenting on them. Doesn’t bother me because I won’t be purchasing one.😬

[@wltrlg]

It's interesting that opinions for this bike vary so much. I normally spit on adventure bikes, but I think this one is really good looking!

[@jackchristodoulou197]

Unfortunately I am just like Dave when it comes to motorcycles

[@WheelieGoodTV]

🤣👌

[@paulhiggins9492]

30yrs bm mech don’t get pimped better stuff out there

[@marcoluoma3770]

Thanks, the new bike is a move in the right direction: smaller, lighter, and more powerful. For me, it’s not worth a trade of my 2018. (For me, The looks for two pug-ugly bikes like these is irrelevant.)

[@papachis9535]

Just slap a nice sticker on the front radar blank and you’re good to go, in my humble opinion.