Why I Sold My Harley Davidson Heritage Classic & Bought a New BMW F750 GS

Beautiful mid-March day in North Georgia and great day to be riding a motorcycle especially my new 2023 BMW F750 GS. I explain why I bought it and the difficult decision to sell my 2020 Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic. Hope you enjoy the ride!
#bmwf750gs
#bmwmotorrad
#heritageclassic

[@ronaldmccarter5308]

Great video. Retired couple here in east TN (pigeon forge).Traded our 2020 harley tri glide after 7 months for two 2023 750gs motorcycles. Black one for me, white one for the wife. Had them for a year now . One harley for two bikes with all the luggage and money back. No more wife falling asleep on rides with her own bike. Good dealing with the folks at Pandora in Chattanooga. Good thing to be able to downsize and stay on two wheels.

[@GARamblinMan]

Sounds like you had the same train of thought I had. I love my new 750 GS and I’m sure you love yours too. And all at a cost much less than our Harley’s. I looked at what Pandora had in stock in Chattanooga before I ended up buying mine in Greenville, SC. Pandora looks like a great dealership with a lot of motorcycles. Have fun on your new motorcycles and maybe we will pass each other some day out on the road!

[@slowridertv]

I really like sitting up higher for the better visibility.

[@GARamblinMan]

Me too. I feel I have much better control over the motorcycle with this tall upright riding position. I have much more fun on the curves now. You still can’t beat a cruiser or touring bike for long range comfort but this new motorcycle has reignited my love of riding. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@kimetogo]

Nice view from the seat of the BMW, Glad you like your new bike and hope you have many happy riding miles ahead. Cheers

[@GARamblinMan]

Thanks for watching and the well wishes! It is a great view from the seat. I love riding it.

[@cbsbass4142]

We were just up in Lake Lure and around the Flower Bridge visiting family at Lake Adger this past weekend and thought about you when I looked up and saw Chimney Rock

[@GARamblinMan]

It’s a great destination for sure. Hwy 64 coming into Lake Lure from Morganton is a blast to ride.

[@thomfrost2594]

Not many subs for the length of time you've been doing you tube. You're a natural storyteller! 😊

[@GARamblinMan]

Thanks for the compliment. My grown kids tell me I’m starting to repeat a lot of my stories in my old age, but that comes with the territory. I have a lot more subs than I ever thought I would have. I do this just for fun. It’s a great hobby. Thanks for watching and commenting. I really appreciate it.

[@JP1970]

I totally get it brother…sweet bike! My buddy has one and he loves it. 😊

[@GARamblinMan]

Loved my Heritage, but this new style bike and the way it handles has re-energized my love for motorcycling. Thanks for watching and I have really enjoyed your videos over the years - Ride safe!

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

Lovely I have a 2019 750gs. 222kg seems top heavy for me so looking at the tiger gt pro at 200kg dry. What a difference

[@jeffarnie]

I've only found your channel since you bought the Beemer. I enjoy your ramblings as you ride along and good to hear you like the 750 GS. I have watched reviews on it and also the 850/900 GS's and I was turned off looking at the 750 because the reviews om the 850/900 always mention the vibrations and I have that in my Honda CB500X which is annoying to say the least. I see in one of the comments you state there is no vibrations in yours so I'm going to have another look into it. I'm 74 and although still fit and active, I realize I must take weight and size into calculations. If you ever visit Sydney Australia in your retirement, it would be a pleasure to show you around.

[@GARamblinMan]

I felt a lot of vibration in the handlebars on the smaller Triumph Tiger 660 but none on my new BMW F750 GS. I’m taking a long trip in a few weeks and I’ll report back after that trip on the overall long ride comfort of the bike. Australia is on my bucket list for sure to ride. I follow a lot of KZbin channels where the riders are from Australia. Beautiful country and I am looking forward to visiting! Thanks for watching and commenting. I really appreciate it!

[@CageFreeMoto]

Congrats on the new BMW 750! I have been thinking about and ADV bike, however, more as an addition to my Road King. I am so used to the low HD cruiser and the Pan America felt so tall... maybe I need to test ride the mid-size ADV. I am with you I want the cruise control also... thanks for sharing! Take care and stay safe!

[@GARamblinMan]

I had to get used to the seat height too. A lot higher than my Heritage but the bike is so light you don’t need super low seat height like the heavier touring and cruising motorcycles. I can flat foot this BMW F750 GS so I’m fine with it. I love it so far! Definitely a different riding experience but a nice change for me. I do miss my Heritage though. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@CageFreeMoto]

@@GARamblinMan I may go test ride one, thanks for the info!

[@RebelCowboysRVs]

Good to see you out an about. I posted a video a few months ago riding the tri-state loop section of Chattanooga old 3 state 3 mountain challenge course, an the bike has been parked sense. But that 80 degree weather yesterday sure had me looking at pulling it out. I still need to take a ride down 136 one day. Looking to get another bike myself. Royal Enfield is over that way an I want to sit on a classic 350. Heavier than I have now, but I am wanting ABS for once. Locking the front happened to me twice last year. A drop on gravel in that video an just missing a deer a few weeks before.

[@GARamblinMan]

I like the Royal Enfield smaller bikes. Great value for the price. I wouldn’t have a motorcycle without ABS anymore. I’ve locked up both front and back tires on my old bikes and I’m dine with that! Thanks for watching and Hwy 136 is a good road. Not too far from Chattanooga. You could take US 27 south and pick it up around LaFayette. Ride safe!

[@RebelCowboysRVs]

@@GARamblinMan I live 4 miles or so from the end of 136 at the Alabama state line. 136 up an over lookout mountain is just not a direction I have pointed my bike yet. I mostly ride in Alabama an Tennessee.

[@GARamblinMan]

You should ride Hwy 136 east and go all the way to Dawsonville, GA. You would see some beautiful scenery and be riding on great motorcycle roads. Take care!

[@johngilbert1047]

Great weather you had for that ride. We’re going to get out this weekend and get The Mrs. better acquainted with her Heritage. I still think it’s ironic that my favorite riding buddies both got rid of their Heritages for ADV-style bikes, and we got a Heritage. You have to ride a bike you like and you’re comfortable riding, the most important thing is THAT you ride. Looking forward to seeing it in person in May.

[@GARamblinMan]

I look forward to our ride too!

[@timdeleij7105]

Hey I sold my stratoliner after owning it for 12 years. Cruizers for 20 years. Sold mine and picked my Honda transalp last week. I wanted to explore different places and try it out. So far I really love it after driving it for 600 miles

[@GARamblinMan]

Kinda sounds like me! The Honda Trans Alp is an impressive motorcycle. Check out Big Rock Moto. He has a lot of great videos on the Transalp. Thanks for watching!

[@erics9754]

Hi, George its Eric who spoke to you quite a while ago and was gonna congratulate you on your beautiful Heritage after getting rid of your Suzuki C50 boulevard LOL. I got the 2020 Roadmaster shortly after you reviewed the Indian Springfield that I almost bought but needed something more comfortable since my wife loves to ride with me and we both liked all the luxury features heated grips and seats lots of storage and good stereo GPS and power windshield plus 10 grand of options and love taking the wife for rides but being close to 60 it is more of a challenge regarding the weight but not a big deal as I am a large heavy guy so I use my weight to my advantage lol but I can see a day coming soon when it will be a little too bulky for me. I also have been curious about these bikes how did you find ride comfort. I am spoiled with the nearly 5 inches of rear travel with my Roadmaster and the stability that comes from a 940 lb bike on the highway do you find this bike stable? Thanks and have a good one George nice talking to you again.

[@GARamblinMan]

The ride on these smaller adventure motorcycles is different from your Roadmaster for sure. But I was surprised at how comfortable they are overall. Just a little different and it didn’t take me long at all to adjust. There is something to be said for a big heavy touring bike out on the highway. If that’s where you ride most of the time especially with a passenger these are probably a better bet than the smaller adventure motorcycles. But there’s a trade off with everything and the agile handling and light weight for slower speed maneuvers and moving it around your garage sold me on them. I actually find my BMW F750 GS quite stable at highway speeds with plenty of power. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@norbertmaron3635]

Nice awesome man congrats on retirement and BMW is great adventure bike,I had 1200 gsa 2017 and the BMW are quick and fast too..Have fun,stay safe and most of all stay HYDRATED TOO!!😂😎👍

[@GARamblinMan]

I’ve been surprised at how quick this 750 is. Half the size of my last 114 cubic inch motor in my Harley-Davidson but the lighter weight of this bike and this motor work just fine for me. Thanks for watching and commenting! Ride safe.

[@alaindecelles9373]

Congratulations on your retirement, personally i would have kept the Heritage a light comfortable and versatile cruiser. However to each is own and as long as your bike makes you smile. again congrats on your retirement

[@GARamblinMan]

I did love my Heritage and agree with your opinion on it, but it was just time for me to get something different. Thanks for watching and commenting. I really appreciate it.

[@B_Ritt70]

I’ve had a few H-D touring bikes and softails, I bought the Pan America last summer and love it. ADV bikes are great, more people should give them a chance.

[@GARamblinMan]

I like the Pan America too but just a little bigger than I wanted and more money than I wanted to spend. I think if HD came out with a Pan America based on their newer 950 motor like in the Nightster and price it in the $15K range, they would have a huge hit. I would have definitely considered it. I still want to test ride the bigger Pan America one day. Thanks for watching and I agree with you that if more traditional touring and cruiser riders would try the Adventure bikes, they would love them.

[@brotherstanleo]

Nice! Wasn’t aware you sold the Heritage but I get it bro… Im selling my Vstar since I picked up the Sportster and am transforming it😃

[@GARamblinMan]

Can’t wait to see what you do with the Sportster. Good luck with it!

[@georgenauss2670]

I like the BMW F750 for it’s size and it’s accessory. Cruise control and heated grips! I would like to get a Yamaha 900 GT. It has all the bells and whistles!

[@GARamblinMan]

I chose this BMW F750 GS because of all the options on it. The Yamaha 900 GT is a great bike too. Can’t go wrong with either motorcycle. Thanks for watching and commenting. I really appreciate it.

[@naturalforlife6741]

The weight of my Street Glide is why I traded it for my 2022 Heritage. I have had to lift it twice off the engine guards. No problem. I'm 70 now and have been retired since I was 62. I just recently bought the ZX4RR for fun. I also own a 2018 Iron 1200 for a bad ass mood changer. I've thought about selling the sportster but just can't bring myself to doing it. The Heritage is a great cruiser and light tourer that also do long touring. I'm a life long natural body builder and influencer on youtube. I'm 5'6" at 150lbs. I've been resistance training for over 50 years.

[@GARamblinMan]

I’ve been more conscious of the importance of exercise and weight training the last few years. I don’t want to lose the ability to ride any sooner than I have to. I’m really loving the lighter BMW motorcycle. It’s really a blast to ride. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@bernardlesperance742]

Don't sell your sportster unless you absolutely have to. You'll likely regret it. Many have.

[@ronaldcoleman3119]

Hi George, I hope all is well. I retire this July after working 34 years in the New York state department of corrections. George I can’t wait to retire. I’m looking so forward to riding my bike and sleeping in. Currently, I get up every morning at 4:00 AM and then ride 50 miles to work. I used to ride my bike to work from mid April to early November. That was until I hit a deer on the morning October 20, 2021. Since then I don’t ride in the early morning or late night. Most of my riding is just to my cabin 50 miles away or a fifty mile ride for a cup of coffee. That’s what I refer to as old guy riding, I turn 62 this August and currently own a 2015 Honda Shadow Aero. The bike I totaled was a 2015 Yamaha V- Star 950.

[@markhenry192]

I retire end July (well end June, a/l July). Happy retirement to you. The adventure begins!

[@GARamblinMan]

I predict you will love it!

[@GARamblinMan]

I don’t ride much at night either for the same reason. Deer are everywhere around where I live. I also think drivers don’t see us well at night so I try to keep my riding during daylight hours. Thanks for watching and on your upcoming retirement! Well deserved and you will love it.

[@BegoneJonah]

BTW, bad joke: I once climbed onto a BMW 1800 R18 in a showroom and read aloud the "Made in Berlin" on the speedo. "Just like the Final Solution," I told the salesguy. He howled. Perhaps you won't.

[@GARamblinMan]

I’ve seen that on their bikes. My grandfather would probably roll over in his grave if he knew I was riding something with that on it. By the way, the engine on my BMW 750 GS is made in China. The sales guy made a point to tell me it was engineered and designed in Germany by those really smart BMW engineers. I said yeah whatever. Thanks for watching!

[@BegoneJonah]

@@GARamblinMan BMW is getting their engines made in China? Didn't know that. Interesting!

[@AnthonyGonzalez-lw1ek]

What is your opinion on the crusier from CFmoto 500 flc , 700xlc or the IBEC 450 I need a light bike short vet

[@GARamblinMan]

I have not ridden any of the CF Moto bikes but they are becoming popular and I think we will see more of them. I will review one if I ever get a chance to demo one. Have you looked at the Triumph Tiger 660? It’s very lightweight and low seat height. Handles great and that Triumph triple engine is awesome. If you’re looking for more of a cruiser style, the Triumph Bonnevilles and Speed Master are good choices. I also like the Indian Scouts, Harley-Davidson Nighters and Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. All good affordable smaller bikes. Thanks for watching and commenting! Thanks for your military service, too!

[@jimeckenrode1271]

Have not seen you in a while. Looks like you are moving up in the world with the BMW. You mentioned older riders in accidents and I have three older friends that were seriously injured in motorcycle accidents and all three were stopped at the time. One lady friend died while riding which caused and accident but her dog who rode with her all the time was not injured. That was a one veh accident. Ride safe everyone.

[@GARamblinMan]

Being stopped at an intersection is always dangerous for motorcyclists. I always have an escape route planned and keep my eyes on my rear view mirror. Distracted drivers these days are everywhere. Thanks for watching and commenting. Ride safe!

[@barrybarnes96]

Suspect the suspension on that BMW is nicer than on most Harleys...think the Heritage had the nicest suspension of the HDs.

[@GARamblinMan]

The new BMW absorbs the bumps just as well or better than the Heritage. I was surprised but the ride is very smooth and comfortable. Thanks for watching!

[@theSMYRNAcowboy]

Looks like my friend you will have to make another intro and outro video. (In my numerous motorcycle purchases since 2007 which is three)😅. Being retired is a great life. It's our time now. When I visited Sam Smith back in 2019, I got to ride his wife's Spyder. That just planted the seed. When you take your trip with Stoney, tell him Dave says "Hey" 🙄 😊

[@GARamblinMan]

I’ll have to get my son right on that. He did my intro and outro and designed my logo. I have no clue on those things. I’ll tell Stoney you said hello. Thanks for watching as always!

[@garybaldwin1061]

It will be interesting to see what you think of the dealership only cost of maintenance. I've heard it is unreasonably high. The last I heard BMW doesn't sell a service manual, so they try to force you to have them do the work. Congrats on retirement!

[@GARamblinMan]

I’m prepared for the higher BMW service costs. Maintenance is annual or every 6,000 miles do I guess I’ll just have to deal with it once a year. Harley service was no bargain either. Thanks for the well wishes on my retirement. It’s been a long time coming and I love it. Ride safe!

[@pault4513]

I been riding my harleys for many years then one day told my wife i thought i was ready to buy a new motorcycle she said you have 2 harleys already are you going to get another one i said i dont think so when she didnt complain i went out and bought a 2023 BMW R1250GSA and loving it

[@GARamblinMan]

It’s a great change from the Harley’s isn’t it? Nothing wrong with Harley-Davidson but these adventure bikes are a blast. Have fun on the BMW and ride safe!

[@yoso585]

If it weren’t for the wind protection and that I can’t get along with a full face to keep the wind out of my eyes, I’d certainly give something with more of a standard riding position a go again. It is a very comfortable position. Distributes the weight on the butt much better and reduces pressure and soreness. And removes the need I have on my Heritage for a back rest. Trade offs.

[@GARamblinMan]

Every bike has trade offs and pluses and minuses for sure. I can open the visor on my full face helmet now and don’t feel any wind at all. This new Madstad windshield deflects the air right over my helmet. I’m very pleased with it. The windshield on my Heritage was great too. That was a super comfortable motorcycle to ride out on the highway. Thanks for watching!

[@mbeck9680]

Congratulations on your retirement!

[@GARamblinMan]

Thanks. It’s really nice to have the freedom to do a little of things I’ve always wanted but never had the time I wanted. Thanks for watching!

[@northbysoutheast5439]

😎👍👍

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

Two wheels are fun bottom line I've owned @30 Yamaha Suzuki Honda Harley dirt bikes. And road. Have done an Iron but. Not fun. Honestly. Just remember two wheels are fun I have a Roadking great bike And Triumph Thruxton very fun. And Kawasaki concours 1400. All fun. Rode a triumph Rocket three last October holy smoke. Thats a maybe 180 hp.zoom. Old boys never grow old.

[@GARamblinMan]

My wife says the only difference between men and boys is the price of their toys! Thanks for watching!

[@altongage2500]

Glad you're enjoying your new ride. Like I mentioned before, on one of your other videos, I've been thinking of downsizing myself. Been looking at Indian Scout especially the Rouge. Just wondering how it was selling the Heritage? You can get more selling outright but I'm not sure what safety nets I should have if I sell my Springfield outright. I've seen some sellers stating no test rides unless money in hand. That's probably in case they decide to take off. Just wondering how you went about it, any concerns of scammers etc? Thank you. Ride safe.

[@GARamblinMan]

Selling your motorcycle on your own does carry some risk. I met the guy who bought mine at a public place - a store parking lot. I did not let anyone come to my house. He did not ask to test ride it, but I would not have let him without the cash in my hands. But I got a lot more for it than what dealers were offering me in trade, so I had to sell it that way. Luckily my experience was quick and easy.

[@altongage2500]

Thank you. I was thinking the same way about a public place. Good to know you felt the same about cash in hand. I'm thinking, if they insist on a test ride, I have to get a copy of their license and insurance plus the cash. Thank you for your input.

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

They cancelled the 24,'. F750gs in Thailand so ... Sell my 2019 f750gs for......

[@bernardlesperance742]

You really can't go wrong with a BMW. Premium quality and very reliable. I my self (also a H-D rider) will be looking into the new BMW R12 cruiser coming out this Spring/Summer. Have fun !

[@kiplambel4052]

I've had 3 BMWs, an '07 R1200GS, a '10 F800GS, and a '16 R1200GS. All 3 had warranty or recall issues. You want dependability, buy a Honda.

[@GARamblinMan]

I had the feeling that the BMW F750 GS was a premium motorcycle when I test rode it and I haven’t been disappointed so far.

[@bernardlesperance742]

@@GARamblinMan I hope I won't be disappointed with the new R12 when it comes out - I have high expectations for it. Fingers crossed.

[@larry68hd11]

😢

[@GARamblinMan]

I did shed a tear when the guy who bought my Heritage rode away. But this new BMW has re-energized my love and excitement about riding a motorcycle. Totally different riding experience but it’s great to still be able to throw a leg over and take off on 2 wheels. Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it.

[@Ed-lz4jv]

I have same bike your riding, over a year now. 2022 same color also. the 750 is more a road bike not adventure, which is fine to me, Here is what i hate, IT EATS oil in 3600 miles have added over 2 Quarts of oil and this is WITHIN BMW spec ! I hate all the chain maintenance hassle. will never buy a chain drive again, I do like the quick shift. drive modes, heated grips. BMW message screens and maintenence screens are a PITA. should be able to shut off within bike setup...NOPE you cannot. the 750GS is same motor as the 850 GS EXACT, but BMW DETUNED IT for less HP...what a shit thing to do. there are ways to get the 15hp back, but will void warranty. BMW is like APPLE. I will never buy a BMW again

[@GARamblinMan]

I think they de-tuned the motor down to satisfy the European license standards for newer riders. I’m loving the bike so far. Chain maintenance is a little bit of a hassle but I’ve done it before so just getting used to it again. Thanks for watching!

[@MuleBlanche]

Needed to sell one of two bikes. Sell the Heritage or BMW F 700 gs. Sold the Harley kept the gs. Miss the Harley but love the ga.

[@BegoneJonah]

Oh, Georgia Rambling Man! What is going on with this formerly great state? First, it's Fani Willis and now this. The turn signals are different on a BMW than on a Harley. I'd write that you'd have to get used to that, but as we all know BMW riders (and drivers) don't use turn signals. ("If you ever think your part in the world is of no use, consider that workers on German assembly lines spend their days installing turn signals onto BMWs.") I test rode a few recent BMWs and realized right away that they were not for me. There is simply no ride like a Harley. I'm forever wedded to my Road King. But - you ride what you want, of course. Motorcycling is about freedom, and I have no business telling you what to ride. Suit yourself. But... George from Georgia... I... I just can't...

[@GARamblinMan]

The great State of Georgia has a few warts these days. I’ll make no political comments but needless to say I’m not a fan of the blue turn our politics has taken. It did take me awhile to get used to the turn signals but they were like this on my older Metric bikes. The riding position is different on this BMW F750 GS but it’s comfortable and I like it. I’ll probably buy myself another Harley some day. I’m loving the BMW and retirement now though! Thanks as always for watching and ride that Road King safe!

[@BegoneJonah]

@@GARamblinMan Just bustin' your chops! Happy trails!

[@user-cx9cj8wf3h]

George, what screen do you have on your F750? It looks clean. I want to get one that fits that way.

[@GARamblinMan]

It’s the 18-inch adjustable windshield from Madstad. Great wind protection and easy to install. madstad.com/collections/f750/products/bmw-f750gs-2018-up-adjustable-windshield-system

[@MRGS48]

One of the many reasons I went with my Road King Special… Retirement is somewhat a bitter sweet thing you miss the regularity of going to work but also now it’s the “fixed” income…Glad you enjoy the bike my friend. 🫡🇺🇸🌵

[@GARamblinMan]

I’m having a hard time adjusting to having to spend my savings rather than keep adding to it. The financial part of retirement does take some getting used to. I loved my job and my co-workers but it was time for me to let a younger generation take over. I made the right choice. Thanks for watching and ride safe!

[@MRGS48]

@@GARamblinMan you certainly did👌Cheers from Arizona🫡🇺🇸🌵

[@BegoneJonah]

@@GARamblinMan Oh, yeah, forgot to comment about retirement. Should have done it years ago. Leaving the workplace behind took me all of .000002 seconds to do. You will love it, too!

[@BegoneJonah]

In fact, it's a nice day. Guess where I'm headed? Garage -> Road King -> Route 1 -> Ashland, Virginia.

[@MRGS48]

@@BegoneJonah road king IS the best Harley bar none…!