I bought the cheapest BMW R1100GS in the world!

[@James-vf3cd]

I have owned my 1996 R1100 GS since new. It now has 173,500 miles (279,983 km). No plan on replacing it yet, still has plenty of life left in her. I do most maintenance myself so I know the bike quite well. It still brings a smile to my face every time I ride it. It still looks fantastic too!

[@RideWithAlex]

Really awesome to hear that. Keep that thing on the road 😁.

[@toastopia1]

I have always liked the 1100s models, I just get nervous about the maintenance. What about the servo brakes?

[@RideWithAlex]

@@toastopia1 it's really not that bad. It's not cheap but it's also not wildly expensive.

[@nevbaker7642]

I have a 96 RT that one had from new. 200k on it now and runs like a dream.

[@motooilermotooiler9597]

what are the servo brakes on a 1100??? :D :D :D @@toastopia1

[@bitweasel8010]

Got my R1100GS in 2017 (a '99, the last year) and have slowly made upgrades to her over the years: - Sheepskin cover over the stock seat (cheap and great) - LED drop in bulb (keeping the stock looks, but great) - Touratech 'hard parts' on the front and back. The back one is seen as 'essential' to protect the engine mounting point from cracking if you land hard with luggage. (Getting a bit hard to find, but still cheap) - H&B crash bars - Windscreen extension - Throttle lock by Kaoko (for the long sessions on motorways) - Leovince exhaust (less weight, better sound) - Side stand foot plate (for a larger footprint, less sinking in the ground) - R1150GS Adventure fuel tank, it's plug and play, and with that wider tank you have 30 liters of fuel, and it looks awesome. - Braided stainless brake lines. (essential if you have not swapped these out yet) Still to do: - aux lights - hyperpro suspension - new injectors (from 'tills', better mileage and smoother ride, no more surging around 3-3.5k rmp) - tuning chip by John Gemi (plug and play again... and better mileage and smoother ride) - Get some Large panniers. Lat but not least, if you want to see what such a bike is actually capable of, check out "From Estonia with Love" on the advriders forum (www.advrider.com/f/threads/from-estonia-with-love-round-the-world.480532/) where Margus & Kariina documented their round the world trip in minute detail, along with all the pre-trip preparations, and road-side fixes. Mine only has been all over Europe.... still need to leave the continent. One day....

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you for all the info :D i will definitely look into it.

[@michaelbmw1931]

Please show me your motorcycle...!

[@jacobac42]

I know this is an older video, but as far as the ABS error typically it's pretty easy to solve. A quick way to test is to get the bike up to about 2000-3000 revs in 2nd and then shut the bike off with the key, turn it back on, and bump start it. If that fixes the issue then you have a weak battery that is failing the voltage check on startup, thus causing the alternating warning light flashing. If that does not work, bleeding the braking system with new fluid and clearing the codes in the computer will solve 99% of issues. I don't remember the exact pinouts to clear the codes, but its quite simple and just requires opening up the big cylindrical connector under the seat. I had to do that process on my R1150GS that uses the same ABS system and it was easy and haven't had any issues since. Good luck!

[@RideWithAlex]

I know what the problem is, one of the wires going to the main conector to the abs module is broken, just don't know which one and I don't have the time to take the fuel tank off and go searching for it.

[@sitalebnaoufal]

I love the R1100gs, bought mine in 2020 and already did almost 40k kilometers with it. I toured around Morocco last summer and it never let me down.

[@RideWithAlex]

May end up in Morocco this year myself with it, it's currently up in the air but we'll see.

[@MrARN]

Bought a '98 R1100GS a month ago! Really looking forward to your journey! And great to see how much you love the 'new' companion!

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you, i also can't wait for the warmer weather to start taking it out 😁

[@Reggie3cl]

Hope you enjoy the 1100. Mine has been to Africa (twice), Europe, New Zealand and South America with zero issues. Good aftermarket suspension is a worthwhile investment. Off to South, Central and the US later this year on mine, two up. Subbed.

[@RideWithAlex]

Dude, it sure got around :)))

[@gapexx]

Just restomodded an 1150 myself last summer, such a great bike. Did an Alps tour from Slovenia to France and back as a test run :) I'm also thinking of upgrading suspension for this season, which shocks did you go for? And did you leave the forks stock? Thank you if you see this.

[@Reggie3cl]

Gapexx, I used Wilbers front and back. Rear has multiple adjustments, maybe too many! Gives a magic carpet ride, rear more important than the front I think. I have a stronger spring for the rear for when I head off on rougher roads two-up with luggage. Forks are standard. Standard units can be rebuilt (at least in the UK) which is a cost-effective option too.

[@gapexx]

@@Reggie3cl Thank you Reggie, I appreciate the feedback. Have been looking at Wilbers myself. I upgraded the shocks on another bike of mine and immediately after setting them properly my thought was why didn't I do it sooner. Would you say the sentiment applies in the case of R11X0 & Wilbers? :)

[@Reggie3cl]

@@gapexx Oh yes, night and day. Rode a new 1250 last year on fast gravel and my 1100 felt way better.

[@BeanieBiker_AutisticRider]

I am so glad the algorithm spat this video out, this was excellent, I have now subscribed to you, this was so cool and well put together. Thank you for this Alex

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you!! 😁

[@joeybobbie1]

Hello from Texas. I’m glad I found this Video. I Ride a 2006 R1200GS, and it’s the best Bike I have Ever Owned. I’m 62 now and have been Riding Bikes since I was 10 Yrs Old. Mine is also Air and Oil Cooled and it saves on the Weight of having a Water cooled GS. I don’t need all the Ride Modes, I just get on and go. Great Video. You will grow to Love the GS even more the longer you Ride it. The reliability, Comfort, low Center of Gravity, off Road handling, I could go on and on. Anyway, congratulations on a Great find at a Great Price.👍👍

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you, the falling in love part is allready happening 😂

[@frankmeier6592]

I own a 98 1100 GS and you are so 100% right about this bike. I just test drove the 24 1350GS and I wouldn‘t want to trade!

[@skiwithdenny]

I am considering a 1100 GS from a friend who maintains his rides. I want a bike I can keep up with my gf on her Harley but want to ride some dirt roads to get to her house (to avoid the interstate highway) I love the idea of a shaft drive. I am enjoying your review. Keep riding and enjoying your journey.

[@RideWithAlex]

Test it out first, it's decently tall but quite easy to keep up with a pasanger on-board.

[@ygeia_trws]

Love that you found the perfect bike to continue your epic journeys and how you are taking us through what was going on in your mind before the purchase!! The adventure has just begun!🤗😁

[@RideWithAlex]

Indeed it has just begun, can't wait to see where 2023 goes :D

[@pavaruremontas6100]

First time some one explained in words what I felt when I bought GS1100 R. I was more skeptical then you, bout when you ride it for longer time, some magic appears. Best explanation video about how people become GS fans. Now I know how to explain to others :D Super video! Do a trip and give us to watch.

[@RideWithAlex]

The plan is to do at least one big road trip in the summer, can't wait :D

[@johnsharp6618]

I bought a 97 r1100gs last year, and I absolutely love it.

[@RideWithAlex]

Somehow it's not hard to fall in love with this bike!

[@michaelbmw1931]

I bought a 1100 96' without seeing it yet.. througt the internet.. only 2 owners... cant wait to picknick it up 🙏 so sad they did not have 6th gears

[@michaelbmw1931]

I bought it for 700€ 🤩

[@DookeyRidr]

Congrats and what a steal. LOVE that era of BMW GS’s! Simplicity. No complicated electronics. It just does the job, without getting in the way. Great find.

[@RideWithAlex]

It's such a solid platform even if it's 30 years old.

[@bikeserv]

Few guys know how nice these bikes are. I was a BMW mechanic, and now I have my own shop. I've ridden nearly all of them untill 2020

[@RideWithAlex]

It surprises me every time I ride it.

[@tonyking2030]

Great video! Very good delivery & love your enthusiasm for what is in reality is a totally brilliant all rounder bike. I know this because I bought a 1995 R1100GS off a good friend. I decided to completely rebuild it, new BMW black alloy rims, stainless spokes, resprayed it, cleaned & polished the exhaust system, fitted all stainless steel fixings & changed the slipping clutch & oil seals etc…….15 years on, it still looks like a brand new bike, I love it! I will never get back the money I spent on it, however I ain’t gonna sell it! 😂

[@MichaelNielsenStudios]

Seems like the perfect bike for me too - found your channel looking at old GS's and now shopping - pretty affordable and great bikes. Looking forward to more of your videos!

[@RideWithAlex]

I hope this summer to do some proper road trips with it :D

[@spanky8164]

Have owned my 1100GS since new. After 28 years I’ve covered 188,000 K’s and had no issues. A sixth gear would be great and the side stand isn’t good. It allows the bike to lean too far especially when fully loaded and has nearly fallen over a few times. I love my GS and will never sell it.

[@RideWithAlex]

It's does feel like quite a special machine. Getting close to 1 year ownership and definitely no plans to sell it anytime soon.

[@daveperry4391]

Sidestand fix, buy an ice hockey puck and bolt it to the sidestand foot, weird, but it works great !!

[@RideWithAlex]

@@daveperry4391 i also need a new side stand or to weld this one :)) i know the hokey puck trick.

[@canicheroyal]

Had mine for 27 years and 216,000km. Replaced OEM side stand last year (had a fracture). Found only 1 on eBay from later model (larger foot & different angle that did not let the bike lean as much as the OEM one did; which was pretty nerve racking).

[@RideWithAlex]

@@canicheroyal from which model is it?

[@danpos1971]

Your description of the power band and engine character was spot on. I bought my first BMW last month. I love it! Mine is a 1999 with 111,000km on it. I'm hoping to see 200,000 with it. I noticed the same. Tractor type power. It creates 80% of its torque at 3,000 rpm. Then most of its HP is at 5,000rpm. So the bike feels like it has more power than it actually does. Cruising at 70-80mph on the highway is effortless. I have a custom Sargent seat and a Vstrom custom windscreen on mine. So even more comfortable than stock. My off roading is a secondary asphalt road, which is worse than your video where you tipped your bike over. HAHA! Our roads in Canada are terrible! Great video!

[@RideWithAlex]

My only wish for it is if it were a bit lighter :))

[@nickandmotorcycletime5246]

How has your gs treated you? I’m in Eastern Canada and going to look at a 1998 with 123 000kms, but lots of mods and looks well taken care of.

[@danpos1971]

I have a strong suggestion. Drain the gearbox oil and check it for metal shavings. Pay particular attention to 2nd and 3rd gear. Ride the bike in those gears for a while. Don't just shift through the gears.

[@danpos1971]

The transmission is the weak point of. These bikes. If BMW would have corrected that problem., many of the Oil Head bikescwould be seeing 200,000-300,000km with just maintenance.

[@flyttkartong6761]

Last sunday I got a red 1999 modell with ABS and heated grips with 75000km in very good condition. All the tools was still there under the passanger seat, looked like it had never been used. Also got BMW panniers and a tank bag. Picking it up tomorrow from my friends place to bring it to the garage, will take it for a spin. The gentleman I bought it from had serviced it from top to toe. It was so clean when I picked it up. Only need a new set of tyres, thinking about getting the Dunlop Mutants or Trailmax Mission. Very happy with the bike, I like its funky look and the red colour realy makes it pop. Cheers and thanks for the video!

[@DerAndereMann]

The Dunlop Mutant are great 🛞

[@ghosar]

So nice to listen to you. I'm currently thinking about getting on a bike again. Thanks for you video

[@RideWithAlex]

Glad you enjoyed the video 😁

[@romans4471]

I really love Your pragmatic approach towards the must-have list! It's bery similar to mine, tbh.

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you!

[@christopherath2290]

my german father rode his 1100gs from alaksa to panama in 1999, 9 months later I came along and I bought my first 1100gs last year, I got the cheapest 1998 gs in germany. beautiful piss yellow and dented tank. it's done 10k km through europe last summer on my first long distance trip.

[@RideWithAlex]

They are proper workhorses 😁

[@christopherath2290]

@@RideWithAlex also I don't know if it's what's wrong with your abs system specifically, but you can reset the abs error with a wire, that fixed mine after it threw a code in croatia. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWq9dap_o9OYgrs

[@RideWithAlex]

@@christopherath2290 it's a wire going to the main conector of the abs module thats broken and i have to find which one

[@johna6968]

I also ride a '96 BMW. A culture shock initially but getting to love it.

[@RideWithAlex]

Yep, the more I ride it the more I love it 😁

[@Titan500J]

Nice video! I have a 05 GS 1200 which I love but it's about 500 pounds with a half tank of gas. Easy to work on and does anything I want it to do. Make sure to change the final drive fluid and lube the spline. But a good torque wrench(s) get a maintenance book and follow it .

[@RideWithAlex]

I have the book, the oils have been changed and the splines lubed about 6000km ago so I'm good for a while.

[@lotusds]

Felicitări, mă bucur pentru tine cum m-aș bucura și pentru mine! E și de culoarea Crăciunului, ce mai, e perfectă așa cum e deocamdată și pariez că n-o lași în pace nici pân' la primăvară pentru că iarna asta va fi blândă și asfaltul uscat. Ceea ce-mi va grăbi și mie vizita la showroom... 😏🛵😍😀 De-abia aștept să văd și cum dezvolți proiectul ăsta. Priveliștile de pe Edelweiss Spitze sunt unice, iar Alpii, Pirineii și Dolomiții sunt tot la locul lor! 😁 La mulți ani și Ride Safe!

[@RideWithAlex]

Deja sunt componente pe drum, nu o las in pace :D. O aduc la cost de maxim un scuter de 125cc sa vedem ce iese cu bugetul asta. 2000 a fost motoreta mai am cam 1000 cu care sa ma joc.

[@lotusds]

@@RideWithAlex Succes, inspirație și noroc să ai! De-abia aștept s-o văd live!

[@Gman4MF]

Nice video. Never wanted to own a BMW but after borrowing a R100GS for a week from a friend i was sold and had it for a few yeas (regret i sold it btw). Now i own a '98 r1100gs since 2020 for 2300 euro. It has 185000kms on the counter now. Note: Appearently your ABS doesn't work (the red lights keep flashing, they should stop flashing after driving a few meters). Looking forward to follow you on your journey...

[@RideWithAlex]

I will try to fix the ABS at some point it's a lose wire in the main abs module conector

[@DerAndereMann]

Great Video…I agree completely…this is why i bought again a GS from 1998…if you come to Switzerland come around…👍👍👍 i want to do a trip to Marokko next year…

[@dannyvan5792]

oil 20 w 50 can help for les oil contsumtion

[@RideWithAlex]

I don't know what it curently has in it but I did buy Motul 20w50 mineral oil for when I do the service in the spring. Well see how it goes :))

[@siebestolk4516]

Amazing video!! I bought one aswell! Keep us posted on the what you’re gonna replace and add on the bike!!

[@RideWithAlex]

Build series incoming as soon as i get the parts in, everything is ordered :)

Months later... and i didnt even get to move my gs one cm.. Started to think that i will never get to repair and ride it....

[@RideWithAlex]

☹️

[@manolis_rho]

Nice bike bro! Many greetings from Greece and happy new year!!!

[@RideWithAlex]

Happy new year! 😁

[@markfisher299]

Hoping to purchase one very soon ..Great video

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you 😁

[@dawshill1400]

My 1100 GS is one year older - and makes the same fun...

[@allseeingotto2912]

I just bought a 1996 R1100GS for £1550 , looking forward to getting out on it .

[@marcgirth]

Got one! Love it! Enjoy!

[@RideWithAlex]

:D

[@lucerong3]

I have a 97 1100Gs. I also have the same remarks about this model. I took off the ABS system as I'm used to riding without ABS on other bikes. My GS is now lighter and I can feel the difference. That ABS is quite top heavy and takes up much space underneath the tank.

[@RideWithAlex]

I think mine is also getting an ABS delete soon

[@ebramgendy]

Congratulations for that amazing bike i really like it maaan can you please post videos iduring the modification process

[@RideWithAlex]

That's the plan, a full build series, just have to get parts in :)

[@ebramgendy]

@@RideWithAlex goodluck bro

[@RideWithAlex]

@@ebramgendy Thank you!

[@raresvintea1]

Hello Alex, poti sa faci filmulete cand mai faci cate ceva la moto, curiozitate :)

[@RideWithAlex]

Vreau sa documebtez tot build-ul 😁

[@nomaneme]

I was looking at a ‘00 at a R1100RT today with 48k miles, I learned that both the GS and RT are VERY similar mechanically, so this video kind of applies to my situation. Thanks!

[@RideWithAlex]

It really does, yeah.

[@JohnAlot]

I bought one in 2021 for $3000 US. Only 24,000 miles. She has nearly 40,000 miles now.

[@RideWithAlex]

She's got a lot more left in her :D

[@robinwells8879]

I have a GS prejudice too, possibly derived from all the expensive status symbol new GS riders out there that make it seem to be a bit of a cliche. With a handsome classic version like that, the impression is quite different perhaps. I always wanted a classic R40 or similar because I love the look of the old boxer unit. I may now be a bit envious 😂

[@snike9834]

Nothing is better than a carburator when you are far away from home. Try to fix an electronic problem of your fuel injection in the middle of nowhere........

[@RideWithAlex]

I've had more trouble with carbs then with fuel injection. I've never had a fuel injection system go bad on me ever.

[@carsyoungtimerfreak1149]

Nice review. I am into big touring bikes. Never go off road, my bikes are far too clean. They are too clean to ride in the rain, yet as an everyday rider you cannot avoid that 😊. Budget is limited. I got myself a ST1100. I love Japanese bikes and Honda in particular. It was over 30 years old, I used it almost everyday for 18 months with total reliability. The 1100cc V4 is a gem. The ST1100 came to life mainly on request of the German Honda guys as a competitor to the BMW RT. And there are similarities between the 2 concepts. They als are both bikes from companies that also build quite good cars. Me being me I had to try a RT. So in November of last year I traded the ST for a 2001 R1150RT. My conclusion: the RT is the better touring bike. Mainly because weather protection and stability, the latter is much better than the Honda's. I find a GS so ugly... But everyone raves about them... So about a month ago I added a R1150GS to my stables. And like you I like the GS. A few remarks... My RT is single spark, the GS is a twin spark. The twin spark boxer runs so much smoother, I will always recommend you to purchase the slightly later twin sparks. The difference is worth the money. Also, when most (or only) mileage you do is on the highway, go for the RT. With the screen up it is almost if you're driving a car. I rode it one time in pouring rain for over an hour with riding shoes on, my feet still were dry! Unless you want a project, go for a boxer with a fully documented maintenance history. It is worth the money. The Beemers are reliable yet only when they are properly maintained. I also only go for 1 or 2 owner machines. Be prepared for some oil use, after all... it is not a Honda! Eventually one of my Beemers will go. I need more time to decide, a large part of me prefers the RT, also because it has quite a luxury feel to it. To me the GS lacks that. Then again the boxer (which like ali big bore twins is not really smooth, the gearbox is from a tractor) is much more in character with the rather crude off-road image of the GS. If they were as stable as the RT I would dump both Beemers and move to a ST1300 or a Gold Wing... Perhaps I may try a K series BMW as they share the stability with the boxers. Or even stick with the GS. No decision yet.

[@SoferAmator]

Great presentation, hope you enjoy it on dry roads!

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you!

[@geoffrohde8524]

Interesting to hear how your ABS restoration goes

[@RideWithAlex]

Whenever I get the time and energy to try to figure it out, curently I haven't bothered with it :))

[@mayurborah2111]

It amazed me how technologically advance the gs was for its time

[@RideWithAlex]

For 1996 it really was.

[@mentalbiker]

I liked this video 👍 it summed up the r1100gs perfectly. Only one problem though 😮 my r1100gs was cheaper hahaha 🤣 I have liked a subbed to your channel and looking forward to seeing more of your videos.

[@RideWithAlex]

At the moment of filming I couldn't find any under 2500 euro :)). Anyway the build will start in January when hopefully all the parts I have ordered start to arrive.

[@marlecmarine5393]

Interesting and nice video. There is a simple fix for the throttle body rattle, it is the butterfly bearing rattling, you can buy a butterfly bearing that is adjustable and expands and stop the rattle in the body for a few £'s .....🙂 My 1996 GS has done 74,000, only just run in, cost £1795 lest year.......🙂 I upgrade the injectors, fitted GS1200 injectors, they work so much better, transformed the bike. Don't skimp on the oil changes, it's a false economy, use fully synthetic oil it protects the engine so much better.

[@RideWithAlex]

Tbh I put 20w50 mineral, what the manufacturer recommends and it's running very nice.

[@Tafkadasoh78]

Great Video! Just bought one by my own yesterday - construction year 1994 - but only about 28,000 km done - I'm very curious! :) Thanks for showing what this bike is capable off.

[@RideWithAlex]

That's not even broken in at 28000km 🫨

[@Tafkadasoh78]

And the best - I paid 2,500€ :D But it directly goes into the workshop to check everything and change all fluids. But I'm very, very excited about the GS. @@RideWithAlex

[@davidcox8961]

I recently bought a 97, BMW R850R with 97,000 km. I am curious about the differences between GS and R Beemers. The engine is basically the same except for displacement. I paid about the same price as you did. No ABS on mine. The previous owner repaired the critical parts. Thanks for the review.

[@RideWithAlex]

all the R BMW's as far as I know have pretty much the same frame, or very close at least.

[@davidcox8961]

@@RideWithAlex I suspect that the GS has different suspension. I agree about the frame.

[@RideWithAlex]

@@davidcox8961 yea i thinj all of then have different suspension, but but the gs suspension and wheels on an R or RT and you got yourself something interesting

[@elmanitasdeplomo]

This video is long as hell but I like your style of presenting. I still need to get my license but really want one of these.

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you, most of my videos are pretty long. This is my style.

[@InspectorautoRomania]

December - check. Cold - check. Only t-shirt - check! Some things just never change! :D

[@RideWithAlex]

😂😂😂 Nope, they never do!

[@jeffvaljean6030]

Ive just got a r850gs and i have to say i am truly impressed with these bikes i also bought a r850r classic brilliant bikes

[@johnmignano7872]

😆Why is the BMW stereotype so true?🤣but everything you mentioned adds up and totally agree with you 😂

[@RideWithAlex]

It's easy to hate a bike that's so well thought out, and brakes the norm and gives you what you really need from an adventure bike (it's not an enduro bike). But we like to dream and the GS is based on reality (Germans) not on dreams. Sure the Africa Twin can climb Everest but are you really goin to do that? No you're just going to ride it along doing 99% highway or back paved roads.

[@johnmignano7872]

@@RideWithAlex totally agree, your logic, communication, approach to riding adds up, in fact, everything you say is reality based, thanks again for a phenomenal experience, cheers.

[@hmoosawi]

Wish you good luck in your purchase

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you.

[@bucharestbiketraffic]

You should have bought a SYM NHT200 since some say is the best motorcycle in the world.

[@RideWithAlex]

😂😂

[@xizzard]

Parca-i copy-paste din alta postare :)) Doar ca NHT200 nu are douăjdekile de benzina.

[@bucharestbiketraffic]

@@xizzard Il spamez pana isi ia un SYM NHT. :)

[@RideWithAlex]

Te oftici ca doar unul din pistoanele mele e mai mare decat tot motorul tău 😎

[@bucharestbiketraffic]

@@RideWithAlex Ma oftic ca nu iti merge ABS-ul, luminile din bord, trebuie segmentat motorul, ai 180.000km si cel mai tare ma oftica faptul ca ai un BMW rosu. Nici nu mai pot dormi noaptea de la atata oftica. :)

[@nevbaker7642]

I laughed when you said to use the cylinder heads as highway pegs. You're legs are going to get hot! Lol

[@RideWithAlex]

It's not that bad on the highway plus depending on revs they are massage and heated highway pegs so in the winter they are awesome.

[@dannyvan5792]

ok nice commercial for bmw 1100 gs , but wat about oil contsumption ??? 181000 km , 500ml for 1000 km oil ?

[@RideWithAlex]

I only did one 600km trip with it yet and it used up about 200ml of oil, I'm still figuring it out but for an air cooled boxer oil consumption ia normal. Plus this one I'm expecting a bit of oil consumption considering the milage but the engine runs strong for now 😂🤷🏻‍♂️

[@manuelescandon4397]

20W50 is the way.

[@allanotoole3304]

Hi Alex love all you’re Vids on the 1100gs. I live in Australia and have traveled many kilometres on verity’s machines but my favourite two were an 83 bmw r 800 and a gs1100. Al

[@atomicdmt8763]

outstanding video. I wonder why SPOKED wheels- easier to maintain?

[@RideWithAlex]

I love how they look, plus better off road because they are harder to damage

[@Cero834]

I found a BMW for around 2k with 70k km on it. It's not bad, but I'm not familiar with drive shafts and have no experience with them. I'm a bit worried because if there's an issue, the repair cost might be huge any thoughts?

[@RideWithAlex]

I'm also not familiar with drive shafts and how to repair them but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

[@canicheroyal]

Have the '95 since nearly new with only 216,000km on it now (not riding as much as I did). Would never sell it. Looks and rides as it did new (black on black).

[@RideWithAlex]

That's a long time to hold onto a bike, it awesome! :)

[@andreasdepping]

Nice Bike - I ride an 1150GS - It´s a real greatful Motorcycle

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you, the 1150 is not much different from this one.

[@alenfora1400]

My list is, shaft drive comfartable, wind protection panniers those bikes i found at nr1 fjr 1300, bmw rt or gs honda nt700 kawasaki gtr and main thing is budget

[@RideWithAlex]

All good bikes if you find them in decent condition.

[@alenfora1400]

@@RideWithAlex probably right just a bit scared of the bmw because maintance is it expansive but at the same time i see everywhere rt and gs old and newer

[@RideWithAlex]

@@alenfora1400 they can be expensive but if you use the OEM parts they rarely brake

[@alenfora1400]

@@RideWithAlex thank you and i subscribed

[@EvendimataE]

i nearly bought a r1100r......the only thing that turned me off, is it doesnt have abs

[@RideWithAlex]

You can look for one with ABS

[@martinslocombe2288]

Apart from a Yamaha Fazer 1000 i`ve had nothing but Boxers twins for the last 30 years i have yet to find a better all round practical fun motorcycle .The 2012 twin cam 1200gs is the best of the bunch .

[@RideWithAlex]

I've ridden a bit the 1200 twin cam and i kinda agree, it's a bit lighter and slimmer if you go for the non adventure model.

[@futureshock7425]

this is the same bike the famous rock drummer of Rush Neil Peart rode

[@RideWithAlex]

I did not know that, nice :)

[@futureshock7425]

@@RideWithAlex :) you made me laugh man thanks

[@futureshock7425]

Yeah he rode all over North America on some version of the 1100 his book Ghost Rider is a great read

[@vyacheslavadler9653]

Alex hello from Odessa, what a good channel you have, thanks for a very interesting videos. I’m your big Sym fan 🏍🛵🥳 have a good weekend and Romania 🇷🇴 Mari

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you!

[@Adrian.B01]

Unfortunately the list was not 101% complete. It has no CVT, so left boot will be always dirty :)

[@RideWithAlex]

I don't mind shifting gears, considering it's for road trips and not for city riding it's ok to be a manual and not a cvt.

[@bogdanioachimescu2611]

Planning to buy a F900 (gs). I noticed nobody looks at Fs as GSes. Maybe for the better but I don't like the idea of a wannabe either.

[@RideWithAlex]

they are completely different the F from the R. It's the boxer engine that makes the big GS special. The F is just another ADV motorcycle, a very good and competent adv motorcycle but it ain't "The Big GS" or "The GS". I have a video coming out tomorrow on "The Big GS" and what it means, watch it and see if that is in line with what you want to do with the bike. In short if you want a lot of off-road cu for the F but if you tour the R is the better bike, but I go into much more detail in tomorrow's video.

[@bogdanioachimescu2611]

@@RideWithAlex no more used bikes for me. New R GS is just out of my price tolerance. It's not like I really want 8t and I can't finance it. Maybe I can if badly needed/wanted. But I'm not the GS archetype. I hate the new GS owners. I wished for the new Transalp but with tubeless and cruise control. The fuckers didn't give me the opportunity for 2024.

[@GPR111]

Try the latest 1250gsa and be totally amazed..... its a bit more than 2000 euros though ...

[@RideWithAlex]

Just a bit more, I am planing in test riding the 1250, can't afford it but it would bd nice to compare to ols Brutus and see how nuch the bike has advanced.

[@GPR111]

@@RideWithAlex over 20 years development and refining the original...... dont do it ! You will want one. I have had over a hundred bikes in a v long biking career and thought I had probably had the best machines, however, the modern GS just about walks over everything as a total package, it is amazing. To be fair all the modern adv tourers are pretty much brilliant its just a case of which suits personally, for me the flat twin and the clever telelever front end are the 2 highlights of the BMW. On my 3rd one already and likely my fourth within next 3 years. ( I do have to earn them by the way and nice things cost of course!! ) Still like seeing older bikes being improved and kept running though, so keep up the good work 👍

[@RideWithAlex]

@@GPR111 I'm safe, I rrally far from being able to afford a brend new GS 😁

[@GPR111]

@@RideWithAlex I know what you mean, enjoy the test ride anyway and be great to hear your thoughts on your channel. Good luck and more with Brutus please 👍👍

[@jonas8718]

Congrtulations, i just bought one for 500€, but its not running... yet

[@RideWithAlex]

That's low low low price for it, awesome, good luck with the project 👍

[@jonas8718]

@@RideWithAlex Thank you very much, i love watching your Videos. I hope i get the problems of mine sorted out soon. I am really looking forward to drive it.

[@drozdabulii]

Y forgot one thing on the list of Perfect bike.....: side car:)) good luck!!

[@RideWithAlex]

I only once tried to ride a 40 year old Ural with a sidecar but it was very weird :))))) So sidecar didn't make the list.

[@Handirifle]

Do you mean he let you ride it for a week BEFORE you bought it? Thats pretty amazing.

[@RideWithAlex]

Yea, he's a friend. Normal people don't do that :))

[@martinotalotti8986]

I tried a 1150, don't like vibes, very thin vibes uncomfy. 850 doesn' t do the same. How about 1100? Do you feel something?

[@RideWithAlex]

I don't feel anything, I also hate vibes.

[@martinotalotti8986]

Maybe it is only balancing issue

[@uwesassenberg1009]

'Bayrische Motoren Werke' is the correct name in german, but thank you for trying it😊

[@RideWithAlex]

I tried =)) . I don't speak German so I looked it up on google and that was the result.

[@Weyni77]

You can get 500000km out-of that engine.

[@MrRatchaphruek]

Are you taking your wife on next adventure? Great video. I'm glad you're keeping Donnie🛵

[@RideWithAlex]

It's a bit of a touchy subject but who knows what the future holds.

[@enrico48353]

great explanation thank you very very much

[@RideWithAlex]

My pleasure! 😁

[@michaelbmw1931]

This BMW is just so amazing !!!!!!!

[@RideWithAlex]

😁😁😁

[@westsussexbikers]

What are the 2 flashing red lights?

[@RideWithAlex]

The ABS system is not happy, a problem for future Alex to solve 🤣

[@mototurystyka]

hello. ABS in your bike is not working.

[@RideWithAlex]

I know, thanks.

[@johangoldring4066]

My is a -94 with 26000 km. Mayby i sale it too someone. It's so havy for me but very nice.

[@RideWithAlex]

26000km that's barely broken in :))

[@MirceaAgrigoroaie]

Sa te duca bine si fara evenimente 👍

[@RideWithAlex]

Mulțumesc 😁

[@Alexander-zs5rj]

Or in German calling „Gummi Kuh“ (Gum Cow) 👍🏻 if by me all going well good , i will buying a used GS too , a Dream & Wish Motorbike since many years before...❤

[@RideWithAlex]

We also call them cows here, I think everyone calls them cows, but still a wonderful hike 😁

[@gretchensghost]

Your ABS needs resetting.

[@RideWithAlex]

Nope, it's an electrical fault with a broken wire that I'm too lazy to search for. I've allready reseted it and it hasn't fixed the problem

[@DerAndereMann]

Where are you located?

[@RideWithAlex]

Romania

[@aidenmornay]

Excellent video

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you!

[@futureshock7425]

vibrated me to hell? LOL

[@tolissis5702]

VERY GOOD VIDEO,MY FRIEND

[@RideWithAlex]

Thank you very much!

[@MOTOZILIANS]

amazing machine

[@Fahri1945]

Your ABS is not working..

[@RideWithAlex]

I know, i said in the video it doesn't work.

[@flyguyphil7247]

Can't be the worlds cheapest r1100gs, i bought my 1995 r1100gs for $1400 usd

[@RideWithAlex]

In Europe it was the cheapest at that moment.

[@michaelbmw1931]

So they have fuel injectors ? Whaaaat 😍🔥🔥🔥🔥 that is just amazing.. bmw 🙏

[@RideWithAlex]

Yep the 1100 is fuel injected

[@AdventuresofmrBosch]

I got a R1100R i love it. Its from 1994 , old lady 🤣😇

[@RideWithAlex]

😁

[@iamrichrocker]

Neil would approve..

[@futureshock7425]

Does your shirt say Cleetus? lol, my dude

[@RideWithAlex]

Yep :)

[@pw9150]

Guess you didn’t get “the cheapest” 😜 … my best friend here in the South of Germany got one for 1.8 k € 🥳🥳🥳 … anyway: lots of bike / value for the money, keep it ! 👍🏻

[@RideWithAlex]

I don't plan on selling it anytime soon 😁

[@pw9150]

@@RideWithAlex guess Frank, my friend neither. I’m happy with a 1200 GS (last air cooled TÜ 2012 model), 62 k km for 7.4 k € … love it ! Greetings from the Black Forest 🌳

[@8000blue]

No music PLEASE!!!!!!

[@RideWithAlex]

😂