FIRST RIDE! BMW R1250GS vs S1000XR

[@mezerlastincarzintion2996]

Exactly the comparison I was looking for.

[@sactown900]

I’m 65, newly retired, 08 FZ1 owner. I was looking for a comfortable-long haul rocket, the wife could ride on the back all day. My 2018 XR is it. Great review.

[@wheelieking333]

JUST SWAPPED MY 1000R FOR THE XR , 57TH BIRTHDAY PRESENT TO MYSELF

[@sebastienp9141]

JED HOLLANDS Nice choice Nice present 😜same for my 40 this year, enjoy mate 😎✌️

[@RM-xl8ho]

Great review of both bikes .. better than most motorcycle bloggers

[@motosafari6378]

R M thanks! I appreciate that

[@inspireddroneimaging8797]

I’ve a K1200S and time for a change … I’m used to the 170bhp power so maybe I want XS … but then I’m also used to the shaft drive and don’t know if I want to go back to a chain so maybe the GS is more what I need … whatever I do I know it will be between these pair , I just need to book some test rides

[@mindspinn311]

The difference? One is a full on sport bike with tall suspension and upright ergonomics. The other is a sophisticated adventure bike that’s still pretty quick. But make no mistake the XR is closer to the S1000RR than the GS.

[@mikedignum1868]

I bought my GS1250 ten months ago and its been to Norway (arctic circle) and it was amazing in all conditions. Great on the twisties and on mountain roads, and it can keep up with the more sportier bikes that were on the tour. As an all-rounder, it can't be beaten (IMO) One thing i noticed about your GS is that it does not have the SOS button.

[@thomas121974]

Is the MRA wind shield better then the stock shield?

[@laddiegill]

Great review. Love the bike. I have a GS1250 Adventure and no plans to change it. The 8 gallon tank and shaft drive is the reason I am sticking to the GSA (also becoz I was 26 about 26 years ago :)). Not going back to chain.

[@JPHOT100]

You pretty much nailed why I bought an XR (and I’m a 55 yr old Brit). I’ll get a GS when I’m 60. Or 65. Maybe 70.....

[@motosafari6378]

awesome!

[@Alpine_Joe]

@Stuffy Duffer. Yep, me too. (I'm a year older than you). GS is a cracking bike but there'll be plenty time for that later (if I'm spared).

[@RT1200BIKER]

Then the GS will be too heavy for you... the XR is nice because its lightweight.

[@bazzjedi2686]

Me too at 54 I love my XR all the power and excitement you want with comfort thrown it. I agree and updated version would be great, panniers integrated, lights, clutch and something different with the current clock and led screen-digitally perhaps.😎🖖

[@frederikfaidhi6029]

I'm 57 and just won an S1000 RR at the Dubai Duty-Free and I've been given the option to exchange for an S1000XR or R1250GS. I currently ride a Honda '79 CBX 1050 & '04 Cagiva V-Raptor and I wonder how the BMW will be like as I have never had one before

[@andrewedmond7738]

great comparison brother. Will be upgrading my 2014 vstrom 1000 later to the 1250 GSA. For that fun factor, I will keep my 2007 GXS 1400. Best of both worlds, and I'm 60. Age should not determine how much fun you should have on two wheels. Safe riding mate.

[@nathanu425]

Hi all greetings from the uk 🇬🇧 . I agree with some of the comments about lack of gloves however Coby great review and good observations , nice balanced review. Also the RT might be worth a look. Take care and God bless.

[@viktorbenedek868]

Hey man, don't you have 6th gear on your XR? :) You are talking about high rpms and not using 6th gear.

[@arnofrom9350]

Way driving a motor like this with trousers without ptotection? I’ve seen so much blood with similar protection...

[@AmenCornerRider]

I would love to test ride both of these bikes. I have a 2017 1000R and I love it!!

[@roadglide]

Great reviews brother. Why not the GSA vs the GS, too much tank?

[@motosafari6378]

GSA is great. Just for comparison this was a bit closer in size!

[@emfl4437]

Awesome review and great insight between the 2 bikes.

[@davidandmandy283]

Gonna test ride one my gsa is feeling slow

[@emak4558]

Your XR is 2 bikes. The GS (A) is 3. You do know , right, that about 5k you get into the shift cam yes? It seemed to surprise you when you hit it. I suggest you compare this GS to your XR on some fire trails and off road. See how they stack up there.

[@MagnumMuscle1000]

The XR needs a refresh-a hydraulic clutch, the new TFT screen, and lose the pannier scaffolding and integrate the mount from the GS.

[@bazzjedi2686]

I have a XR 2017 and agree TFT, panniers integrated and hydro clutch would be great. It is an amazing bike and love every time I am on it. The MIR screen is a must for the XR fantastic screen for this bike also rad and cooler guard are also a must for the XR. Changing the stock exhurst don't see the need, sound is amazing and in dynamic mode it burbbles and pops are something loverly.😜😎🖖

[@tomtraynor5384]

And it would then be on my short list. Riding a KTM Adventure 1290 S right now. Kinda between this XR and the GS as far as "sport" and pillion comfort (A must) and tour.

[@agungbuana6796]

The problem is that BMW has R1250 R, which hybrid between GS and XR.

[@huambo]

A hydro clutch would be nice. But being honest, on my 2017 XR i only use it when at stop lights. The rest of the time the quickshifter is doing its thing.

[@tekkenthumbdan]

I’ve had my XR for a year now and I was very interested in your comparison with the XR to the GS. My previous bike was a 1200 GS which I did not like really. (Haven’t tried a 1250). For me it was the lack of smoothness in the power delivery that a boxer or any 2 cylinder can’t match against a straight 4. I always thought of the GS as the Old Man Bike; although I’m heading that way myself at 56, I’m not ready to give in! The bike before the GS was a ZZR1400 so I’m accustomed to power and the XR just does everything brilliantly and it’s lighter than both my previous bikes👍. Perhaps I should try the 1250 because ‘smoothness’ was not a word I would have used for the earlier 1200 GS. Also I’m 5’9” and I can flat foot on the standard XR

[@edydoate5565]

Test rode both bikes and I agree, the boxer 1250 engine is not smooth either. I now own the XR with the low suspension (also 5'9")and with some minor tweeks am ready to tour also(crash bars with highway pegs,luggage including trunk, risers to pull back and up slightly, touring screen with side deflectors, vibration handlebar end weights,HP sport seat). Love my XR. Previous had FZ1 and Ninja 1000 which were also awesome but not as good or comfortable as this.

[@tekkenthumbdan]

Ed Ydoate It took me a while to notice your reply; anyway I hope you have a blast on the XR, sounds like you’ve personalised it brilliantly for your own requirements. I still haven’t tried a 1250 but I suspected as you said that it probably wouldn’t be any smoother than the 1200. I’ve got it stuck in my mind a bit that I need to try a Rocket 3 R, a completely different animal but for me it looks the absolute dogs ..... Shame they’re so expensive though!

[@colinbell6461]

only thing that worries me is engine issues with cam chain tensioners, can't believe they are faced within problem after it being in the RR for so long

[@jeffmccollum3769]

Get the HP Seat Option for your XR, it is a lot more comfortable. .

[@mikes2270]

Enjoyed your video. I just bought a 2019 triple black S1000XR after riding a 2015 S1000RR which was incredible. I love my XR. Can you recommend a good aftermarket adjustable clutch lever? I had Pazzo shorties on my RR but they don’t seem to offer them for the XR. Thanks

[@ryegoryshev]

Check Wunderlich Vario Levers

[@maxflight777]

Never ride without gloves ...

[@9999chippy]

Never mind that he is also wearing jeans that are already torn at the knee

[@garyhawkins8094]

...or and athletic support, or your retainer- and always have your CPR card, will, and NOK phone numbers.....serious- ATGATT Nazis- chill. If people want to do this kind of stuff, do you think your comments are going to change their behaviors? I wear an Aerostich with FULL armor package and all the trimmings. I do not preach to others, you shouldn't either.

[@883frederick]

@@garyhawkins8094 Yes, why try and educate young people how to live longer. Let them learn the hard way even if it costs them their lives. I think it's a great idea to ride a 150 mile and hour motorcycle with no protection and so do all the doctors and nurses who have to stitch them back together again as they take up a hospital bed needlessly.

[@maxflight777]

The vibration is not related to the RPM’s.... it’s important to understand that the boxer is inherently balanced. An in-line four is NOT. ( Drive a Subaru or a Porsche and the results are similar) This is the reason a many small aircraft have (boxer) flat four engines ..... smooth and light ( similar characteristics make them good for motorcycles)

[@stevo8430]

The XR also has a very good cruise control if you ever ride freeway

[@machz990]

What camera and audio setup do you have?

[@stevo8430]

i like the aftermarket screen as the standard isnt great for me

[@Nicool333]

What year is your xr?

[@motosafari6378]

Nicool333 2018

[@Nicool333]

@@motosafari6378 thanks. I have the opportunity to buy a brand new (55 miles on the clock) s1000xr with all the options for 12,000 (sticker is almost 20K). It's a 2016 and I keep hearing that there are buzzing issues that took a couple of years to get worked out. Just your opinion; do you think it's a good deal?

[@motosafari6378]

Nicool333 you are going to have the buzz regardless. It still has the same thing with my s1000R as well. It’s definitely a super bike in disguise hah. Cruise control is a big help though. I think that’s a good deal because it’s a pretty much brand new bike. You would just need to make sure they change the oil out for you because it’s been a while and there aren’t many miles on the clock.

[@johnhomles2711]

What year is the xr 1000 /model spec .whats it like on mpg too as most say the 2019 is better then 2020 xr

[@matthines5150]

Cool review. I'm pipe dreaming about choosing between these two bikes [dear CEO, please sell the company soon for a huge sum of money, lol]. The GS is just so amazing. Had a friend's for a couple of months and really fell in love, then rode one for a day in France and man, one of the best days of my life. Haven't ridden the XR but it really appeals to me, especially as a Ducati guy who has been lusting after a Multi for a few years now that I'm leaning toward more ST riding. I think the XR is much closer to that. I also just babysat a k1300gt for the summer and enjoyed that as well, was my first experience with the BMW inline 4. The GS is just such a joy, huge smile when you got on it and hit the throttle. So in love with that motor. I do like the inline 4 but it is very very different. Would have to test drive both to know for sure which one I'd want but, even though I do love the idea of the XR, tend to think that I'd [predictably!] end up on that GS. It is just such a fun beast! Thanks for fanning the flames and walking through the comparo. Rode safe and enjoy your sick bike! [PS - Also echo the gloves comment below, and knees! You only have to go down once without gloves to lose capabilities in your hands... don't ask me how I know! - Senor Elephant Thumb]

[@emak4558]

That was funny - talk about showing your bias - says “not as zippy” while still in the parking lot.

[@ozrider8896]

Hi, what’s the make of the screen you have?

[@maxflight777]

Looks like an MRA.... highly recommended.

[@Kree8ivness]

Just wanted to thank you for the great video. You're nuts not wearing glove though😬. In any case I've been looking at both these bikes , love them both but think I'm going w the xr.

[@motosafari6378]

Kree8ivitee XR is fantastic

[@marklauber8744]

Great review thanks

[@rzu7120]

I recently decided to trade in my Moto Guzzi Stelvio for a lighter bike, and one with cruise control. I went into the local BMW dealer with the idea of trading in the MG for a closout-priced 2018 S1000XR they had in one of their dealerships in another state. The manager offered me a great deal on a new 2019 XR, and then I saw a 2018 R1200RS they had marked down. I took both bikes out for a test ride, and still couldn't decide which one I wanted. Making the decision even more difficult, was the fact that both bikes look beautiful in their black paint. The ease of servicing the boxer engine, the shaft drive, better fuel economy and more relaxed highway cruising led me to choose the RS. I just took a 1700 mile, 3 day trip on the RS over the Easter weekend, and I couldn't be happier with the bike. A Givi windscreen and top box, along with the BMW panniers, make it an ideal sport tourer for me.

[@motosafari6378]

Great choice as well! XR is definitely a bit more aggressive of a bike with the 4 cylinder. Boxers are so smooth.

[@johnhestich458]

I think you made a good choice. The new RS is beautiful, especially with the new front end/fork config. All the best!

[@manabouthouse]

Nice review - thank you

[@petersean777]

Loved my XR did 17000 miles on it as you say Sports bike but comfy, cost me having a 200 mile test ride on R1250GS now proud owner just as quick up to normalish speeds and so comfy brill

[@motosafari6378]

love the GS as well! super comfortable bike.

[@garyhagemann3886]

Thanks for the comparison. I am torn between a 2020 XR and a 1250GS still. Currently on a K1600GT and looking for a lighter bike. Always have been a HP junkie. Previous bike was a mottarded 1200GS, and previous to that was a K1200S. Your comparison was really good, but still don't know which way to go LOL. Both have some strengths I like. Like the smoothness of the boxer cause the 1600 is GLASS smooth with tons of torque, but a little portly ridden aggressively in the twisties. Love the way I could throw the GS around. I do like the roads less traveled which both will work. Sounds like the 20 XR has addressed some of the gearing and vibration issues. Decisions, decisions.......

[@robertsomers8211]

Get both and be done with it

[@pilyomotoride7781]

I want to trade my xr for a gs but I'm afraid I might regret it. I Love the power on the xr

[@matheusrgomes]

Does he knows the S1000XR has 6 Gears?

[@pitagudo]

do it with the new S1000XR!

[@raymorris952]

Nice work fella, But you should wear proper protection,! you're setting a bad example!,The GS is been the best selling bike in Europe for years , for good reason.

[@t2coffin]

Great story. BMW pontentially beats everyone. I want an XR and a GS!!! BUT … Gloves when on XR but hot GS? Really? Always wear gloves and gear!!!! Cagers are trying to kill you!!! Always wear full protective gear.

[@sactown900]

Put your back to the XR to pick it up. Trust me.

[@keithaverill1223]

KTM SuperDuker GT... they don't call it "the beast" for nothin 😅

[@maxflight777]

Less torque than the 1250GS and slower in-gear real world acceleration!

[@StevieP1250]

I’ve done roll ons in 3rd and 4th on a GT next to a mate on a 1250 and there was zero real world difference. Trading in the KTM though, ride quality and build quality are like amateur night next to either of these BMWs!

[@genuinecomments4008]

What muppet rides without gloves

[@Alpine_Joe]

Fuck off, safety boy !

[@motosafari6378]

Dis muppet

[@360theosiris]

@@Alpine_Joe Z1000Jeff Yeah, fuck off safety boy. Way more important to look cool right? Idiot. Going by your username, I assume you're riding a Z1000? Awesome bike but from my group ride and track day experience, for some reason a lot of "I don't need protection, I just need to look cool" guys end up on Z1000s.. Saw one end up in a ditch on a group ride after sliding 50 meters across the pavement. Man, did he look cool doing that without his gloves, in tshirt and jeans.. They've picked debris from his legs, hands and back for days.. Saw him again on a track day 1,5 years later: different bike, full gear, not so cool scars all over and a specially fitted clutch on his new bike due to the limited funcionality left in his one hand... But still, fuck safety, right?

[@darylcadman2863]

Gloves.... Protective clothing. Come on mate!

[@jsprite123]

I really love your video and comparison, but please wear gloves. Also, those knee protectors you have (i.e., your bare skin thru the holes on your jeans) won't do much if by chance you were to go down.

[@brucekendall52]

Thks.

[@Rayk76]

Which one u want may depend on how long ur biking and the number of performance bikes uve had and if ur seeking a beautiful sports tourer with supreme comfort, great handling, with v few compromises and adequate performance the GSA is it, whereas the XR in my opinion is a performance sports tourer and like all performance bikes they draw naturally into riding hard from point A to B everywhere u go which for me having had many performance bikes is not what biking is about to me personally anymore....

[@georgemitchell1248]

thank god for fast forward.

[@emak4558]

How did you get 170 hp on this stock - BMW never claimed that, you made it up or ? Also, other big BMW bikes 110 to 120 ? What , no. Dude - you the misinformation channel.

[@mauriciobolboa6829]

GS is way more bike.. more than enough power and xr will never go where gs can.

[@gwilymhowes6422]

When I saw VS I assumed this was a comparison. I was immediately intrigued by the two contenders. What a really strange pair of bikes to compare! The 1250 is a DUAL PURPOSE motorcycle, and you compare it to a naked upright superbike type bike. Yes, indeed. The S1000XR is the upright version of the S1000RR. They are aimed at totally different riders. You never even get into the 1250's off road ability, which is probably a good thing for the XR, as it has NO offroad capability. A good comparison for the XR is the KTM 1290 Superduke GT. A suitable conparison for the 1250 might be the KTM 1290 Adventure. Your comparison is simply irrelevant. What's next? A Mack truck vs. a Ferrari?