New BMW R1300GS Vario Luggage - Users Review

[@flyingjeff1984]

After all these years....I finally know what Vario means. Thanks Andy.

[@wenditaylor2354]

Totally agree with aluminium top loaders being the most practical option. Dropping your camping gear into muddy fields whilst trying load/unload side cases is rubbish. The flat tops of alli boxes allow easy strapping down of other gear too. I had the BMW water proof inner bags for my alli boxes and they were also designed to strap on the alli box lid. This was awesome as you always seem to need more space as your camping trip goes on to accommodate less perfectionist packing away as you use stuff. Also, if you bought gifts etc to take home you always knew you effectively had 2 empty panniers of space should you need it just by strapping the inners to the lid and this also allows isolation of any grubby gear from your clean stuff.

[@Maximius38]

Aluminium cases looks bad ass, but the truth is that if the biker wouldn't do a real extreme adventure tour as crossing from Morocco to South Africa via jungles, it's a bad idea to have them!!! they are heavy, can cut a leg in a crash, and cost a lot!!!

[@ChristopherMcreynolds-o6x]

Great review, I would sooner listen to your assessment than a salesman . Great stuff 👍👍👍👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I appreciate that!

[@louisgara8754]

I second that. You'll never hear any "cons" from a dealer salesman. Most of them know almost next to nothing about the bike themselves.

[@rapax78]

Best review ever of a luggage system. Everything important is explained. Missendflyer knows what he tells. Very expirienced in travelling on bike, knows what important is, and was just nice to have or absolutly nonsense/useless. I’m 100 agree with your oppinion. For me as a BMW Fanboy I would look out for alu cases. Good Ride to all of you in 2024.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow, thanks!

[@Banditmanuk]

Nice to be able to gain an extra couple of inches. 😮 Very informative Mr Flyer. Over complicated in my humble opinion, but I guess there will be plenty of folks who love them and have deep enough pockets.

[@stanbembridge1751]

Absolutely fantastic Mrs flyer, to hear your fluent commentary, which was excellently presented and I mean that as you were just being your natural self, good questions asked by Andy,without any interruptions,as sometimes in the past You have been silenced.lol. whatever you have to say it's always going to be valuable, as freedom of speech is always nice and natural,I'm 66 and the wife will tell you, I'm still learning to allow her to speak🤣, however, Andy please do not take away your own fluency, and clarity, as this is one of the great aspects of your videos, The green BMW is an absolute Beauty!!!😊💙

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@davidz8]

Excellent in depth review which will really help 1300GS owners decide whether the BMW panniers are right for them.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hope so!

[@roadnwater]

Honest review as always. I have just bought aluminum panniers having come to the same conclusions. I was amazed at the heft when I lifted one. For those yet to decide it would be useful to know the weights as well as the overall width on the bike in both positions.

[@nickholmes2464]

Yes, they just added weight to an already heavy bike, and I ended up doing what you do one up. Top box with bag on seat. My old versys had great light panniers, and with a low slung exhaust, you get two panniers the same size. Nothing has beaten that yet.

[@rhysjones6069]

Great review Andy, thanks, think i will stick with my simple on/off soft luggage.

[@1johnrambobo262]

Thanks for your review ! When ordering mine late last year, i got an extensive review by the dealership’s salesman. He showed me that the left panier can also host a full face crash helmet when completely deployed. And also to mention the fact that the plastic covers for the sockets don’t hold on very tightly (losable, therefore could also be easily nicked). Cheers from the Swiss Alps.✊🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers!

[@maxw576]

Fair review. I purchased the triumph/givi trekker luggage for my bike. The dual opening style is nice, and the weight isn't too bad for hard luggage. I'd go with soft luggage any day if it wasn't for thieves! The benefit of weight, compression, and external mounting capability makes soft luggage functionally much better.

[@jamesf8864]

Having charging and a light inside your panniers is a seriously nice touch!!

[@richardcoxon8956]

Interesting review.. The tie down lugs are a useful addition over previous varios.. Ideal for two up esp if camping gear on board..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes true - I should have mentioned that!

[@davidsandilands1285]

@@TheMissendenFlyerare the tie down lugs metal or plastic ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Plastic from memory - not sure how strong they'd be?

[@oswold100]

Got to say I’ve had my top box since November and have had no issues with it in function and form. I really like the lid arrangement and the hydraulic strut so for me it’s a great box. Sure the price is high but you get what you pay for installed and ready to go no research no ordering just get on and use it perfect.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for sharing!

[@MV-XD2]

To anyone complaining about BMWs luggage pricing, take a look at any manufacturer hard luggage nowadays - they’re all flippin’ expensive. KTM1290SA touring luggage is £1,500, Triumph Tiger 1200 trekker pack is £1,790 plus fitting, Ducati Multistrada V4 plastic luggage is a shade under £1,500, even the relatively lowly Honda NX500 is £1295 for a decent topbox and dinky panniers. Given most luggage is cheap (often rebranded) moulded plastic they’re all over-priced.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree!

[@flatcapcaferacer]

With triple boxes I prefer to keep two locked and one unlocked for easy access. Top opening saddle bags are certainly preferable. Aluminum boxes are easier to take care and the adjustability, lights inside, and central locking is certainly something I wouldn't want to pay extra for.

[@ianwatson3315]

On my super tenere I had slim side boxes then strapped 15 lt dry bags on top of those..so much easier filtering through traffic..

[@John-cz2pe]

What a good idea, had you got a pillion and if so how did they manage with the bags on top of the panniers

[@ianwatson3315]

@@John-cz2pe yes and never caused issues

[@ejdtm]

I used to love my old boxed aluminum panniers. Top loading, and could use as seat or table while camping

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes practicality is the key with these things isn’t it….

[@sfayers3361]

Good review and explanation of the new Vario cases. I use the Vario panniers in the retracted position when on tour to keep the bike relatively slim, A bonus for work in traffic as a Bloodrunner. I can expand them for any extras I may pick up on tour. Left side for my clothing/wash gear in a liner bag. Right side for tools, 12v pump, waterproofs and spare gloves in a liner. I have a Givi 58L Outback topbox which takes my camera equipment bag and U lock. When I stop anywhere, the camera equipment comes out and my helmet, jacket and gloves go in. Last thing I want to do is carry around a helmet and MC jacket while sightseeing, as well as my camera gear. I have a small lock-on Givi tankbag for notes/paperwork/maps and visor cleaner, anything to which I need quick access.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sounds good to me!

[@garethmorgan8126]

I have a RT and the central locking is brilliant! I also use pannier liner bags so you don’t have to take the top box and panniers off when you rock up to the hotel. A great advantage as you don’t knock the hell out of hotel corridor paintwork and of course you appreciate the relative lightness when you’re carrying all your road gear and helmet to the room. Will a box take a helmet? Very important, because when you’ve checked in and want to start exploring, you need to be able to lock your helmets up securely when you walk away from the bike. A hard top box allows t’wife to sit back comfortably (happy wife happy life) and personally I’ll wrapping the boxes in Matt black wrap to compliment my triple black GS.

[@BMW-GS]

As always, useful and thorough video, thanks. Maybe useful to know that BMW aren’t shipping the top box at the moment since there is an issue with them 😢. According to the dealer I’m waiting for them from.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Really? I wonder what the issue is!

[@CCooke-nm2be]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Excellent review Andy . Sadly there is a recall on all top boxes. I am surprised BMW haven’t contacted you.

[@John-cz2pe]

Probably thought they'd underpriced them 🤔

[@georgenauss2670]

I have Panniers on my Yamaha FJR. They are very expensive to replace. And I couldn’t get new panniers and had to get them repaired. I think a top box for lockable items and soft luggage is the way to go! You have a lot of jackets in your garage! Very impressive.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I agree on the top box and luggage combo…

[@malcolmbullock4297]

Looking forward to what Mrs F thinks of the pillion experience. We went to buy a GS1300 at the weekend and came away with a new GSA. My ‘Mrs F’ felt very exposed on the GS, she is quite a small girl but felt it too narrow - she really didn’t like it. I’m 6’2” and I did cramp a little waiting for a junction. It’s an amazing bike in terms of go/stop and the technology but it’s just plain too small for us. So, back to ‘another’ GSA (just had an RT) whilst waiting for the new GSA - which may or may not be a ‘full sized’ bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations on the new bike - good choice I reckon 👍

[@JezNashMusic]

Great review, Andy - thorough and informative. It’ll be interesting to see how those boxes fair over the years. I not your older gains on the 12 look in pretty good shape, though as you say you didn’t use the side boxes all that much. I’d be interested to see whether they make much of a difference to the ride, given their weight and bulk, especially when splitting and weaving. Great work, as ever.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You can certainly feel the weight of them on board (the same as you can the old vario cases)....

[@JezNashMusic]

"... I not your older gains..." What?? That'll be an auto-correct of Varios I assume... !

[@cheetsoldboynewbie5708]

Thanks for that Andy. 1) For the price one could buy a 2nd hand car and have the missus follow you with kit inside. 2) The access shape and expander mechanisms probably add much to the weight and take from their usefulness. 3) Instead of electric connection a power bank in each is probably lighter and gives more flexibility (and will have light built in. Have an old 1150 with BMW touring cases and just about to upgrade to a R1200/1250 so think I will go for Shad SH36 which are better shaped for pillion to mount/dismount and closer to original BMW design ethos. Again thanks for sharing your experience with both Various as was interested but had doubts for day to day usage.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@stephenpotts8170]

Hi Andy, all the plus and negatives you mentioned are valid, loads of bells and whistles, but you don't always need that, plus they are very expensive. If I swap my 1250 GSA for the new one it will be because I can carry over my BMW aluminium cases and top box, in fact my cases I brought BMW extenders which give an additional 5 inch in height to the side cases, they can be removed in seconds also. On tour I never book anywhere and carry camping equipment just in case, and it all fits in easily. Thank you for a very good review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good to hear from you again Stephen!

[@rogershermanmusic]

Great review - this review did two things for me. I'm planning on buying a 1300 GS later this year, and was unsure about the Vario cases, though I love they way they look, but now I'm pretty sure I'm going to buy them. They look like I can get everything I'll need in there, whether it's a camping trip, or a ride to the airport; I don't really need anything more heavy duty. The 2nd thing this did for me was to convince me to spend the extra money to get the 719 Option version - I was thinking about the Triple Black, but that green just looks so good!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool!

[@tileproplus]

The new paniers do look lovely but so they should for the money. If they are anything like the old ones they weigh a ton and you can't get much in them unless you extend them fully. When you do that it's like you are riding something as wide as a trike. On the single tracks in Scotland you have to pull into a passing place to let them past. Might as well get a side car and chuck everything in there. I agree with you, top box, roll bag and tank bag for one up hotel touring.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed - I found the NC500 quite scary with the extended panniers

[@samGS1300]

I watched this review with great interest, not least the part about costs, so thank you Andy. My new 1300 is pretty loaded with most factory fitted extras (touring pack etc) which include central locking and fully wired up carriers for side panniers, yet unfortunately for hitherto unexplained reasons the factory fitted rear rack is not suitable to mount a top box. To rectify this I have been quoted (by the local dealer where I bought the bike) £635 for the correct rack to be fitted. I am guessing it is £514 for the proper rack and £121 for the adaptor plate mentioned in the review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Crazy isn't it - you'd think the bike would come with at least the right rack to accept BMW's own top box!

[@MrEye4get]

Beautiful cases! Amazing design. The price is also mind-boggling!

[@Hooner77]

Thanks for the review of the luggage. Looking at Touratech website they are showing their 3 different aluminum side boxes available now for the new GS. And when you look at the size options (31/31L, 38/38L and 45/45L) there all symmetrical. On the 1250GS the sizes were 31/38L and 38/45L, with the smaller used on the exhaust side. I noticed in the pictures that the silencer on the new GS sits lower than the older model. This why they can run symmetrical boxes. I really like that option. If your touring 2-up having 2 45L boxes would be great. Touratech is not listing any top boxes yet, but I am sure those will be available soon. Now the US BMW website shows no luggage available on the Configurator (Vario or Aluminum). If I am not mistaken Touratech makes the BMW aluminum cases, so you think they should be available from BMW. I also checked Givi, and it looks like they have no luggage racks for the new GS. SW-Motech appears to have the most options available for the new bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the info!

[@mac22011964]

Having had vario’s on my 2008 GS I got shot of them precisely for the reasons you mentioned. For touring two up the alloy panniers are much lighter (even taking into account the mounting racks), much bigger and easier to use. Not sure GSA racks would look right on this GS…..the more I see of it the more I think BMW have lost the plot. I have test ridden one and it is great BUT for my needs (much touring with pillion) my current 1250 with GSA luggage is the much better bike).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree….

[@Alanjowitt]

Good, honest review. I have vario cases on my 2017 800GS and they have not stood the test of time, requiring the assistance of a hammer and wooden drift to facilitate adjustment. One aspect not touched on in the review is drag - my boxes increase fuel consumption by 10%!!! Agree with all comments about weight, effect on handling and dismal capacity.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes good point on the drag!

[@jimthompson717]

I had Varios on my 2017 GS. I have the aluminum top loaders on my 2022 GS. I prefer the latter. The Varios usable volume was compromised by being side loading. These new ones are so complex and busy.

[@AndrewRobinson-b8y]

I’ve got a three year old vario top box on my BMW 850 GS and have found it very good can carry a lot Still looks about brand new. I don’t know or care how heavy it is. Only downside is that it cost over £500 three years ago. A lot of money. Used to buy me a new bike that back in the 70s

[@billcotton1551]

The looks of the 1300 is growing on me.

[@johnh.4510]

Good review. I bought the topcase and I am very undecided about the panniers, as they are not very large and they are heavy, and expensive as you say. I agree with you about the wheel mechanism for expanding the case, to me it feels a bit flimsy and I was concerned enough, that I lubricated it after using it a couple of times. In saying that the case is a nice shape,, feels sturdy and well made, opening on two sides is good and the light and USB port are good as is the central locking. Again, will the spring loaded electric connection point last in long term use?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Time will tell! And I agree, the top box is pretty good…if small. Panniers are a bit of a faff though.

[@scottyuk]

Brilliant informative video. 👍Would have liked to have known whether you could get a lid in either of the panniers.

[@cmdrgunslinger5955]

The reason people ask about helmet storage is that very few use the bike strictly for touring. Most use it as a daily bike & or for commuting. Handy to be able to leave your helmet, gloves & jacket on the bike rather than lug it around with you or finding somewhere safe to store it at work. Usual top work Andy, I'd speak to your supervisor about a raise if I was you.😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’ll give it a try….

[@mikeypro7534]

I really like the "vario" concept of shrinking or extending one's luggage. I wish they offered that on my 2020 Goldwing (if you remember, Honda didn't increase the bag size til 2021 I think). That said, I don't have a problem with soft inner liners to bring your kit into the hotel room rather than the entire case(s). Did it with my ST, and now with my Wing. As always, a most thorough review and great information, even for us old Honda fanboys! Cheers! 😁

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Mikey!

[@903lew]

I’d take inner liners on hard bags 10 times out of 10 tbh. Easy to grab and an added chance to make it water proof.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Nice one Andy. It’s always great to hear your thoughts. Cheers. Marcus.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Many thanks

[@colinbarber9324]

I’m with you Andy, light weight soft panniers and a roll bag. You can carry a lot and keep the load as light as possible. The BMW luggage seems a rich man’s option for the all the gear , but no idea rider.

[@johntapley2549]

You didn't mention the electrical connector covers in your video. With panniers removed you have a circular plastic cover that clips over the connector on the subframe. I've heard that they have a habit of falling off and are expensive to replace. Great summary though and like you I'm not sold on them.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You are correct!

[@stevebolton8471]

I like the look of the topbox but when I had a pillion an essential feature was the topbox taking rider and pillion helmets and gloves. The tie-on hooks on the top made me wonder if bmw say what is the maximum load for the panniers and topbox. When we had a bmw we really liked the liner bags so that we didn’t have to carry muddy panniers into overnight accommodation. This bags lasted years and years after we had traded the bike in for another and were used on family holidays without the bike. Oh and the closed captions translated the channel name to “SM fly”!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one!

[@911aircooled5]

You are good at what you do, watched a few of yours now, well done. I'm in Oz and tour Loooong distances. If I may comment. The side panniers being square (old) is really handy. Wifey and I have the insert bags for the old and it is extremely handy, you pull up at a motel/hotel and remove the bag and go inside, done!. The bags are also vario for my wife's hair dryer (don't go there :-) ). So no I do not like the new ones, stupid shape. As for the knob verse the bar to increase size, use mine very regularly and have never had an issue. But on a positive I do like then top box on the new. As for the new having inside lights.....just another thing that can break, when you have a insert bag, it takes seconds to remove and go inside to your waiting beer after doing 700kms in a day (typical in Oz). So agree with your comment, with the new bike I would not get the new vario's.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad we concur and thanks for the kind comments!

[@alanprice9938]

The 1200 still looks real clean. I’m sure you’ve done some bike washing vids before, but as it’s spring I think I need a refresh. I don’t like to leave mine sitting damp, so I tend to wash them on a dry day, then take them out for a heat cycle……. And I used to prefer turtle wax shampoo plus wax, so just gave them a quick buff rather than hosing them off, and it seemed to look after all the metals and paint beautifully.

[@jjnewman65]

Nice one Flyer. I made my mind up a while back about these. Soft panniers for me and no top box.

[@markfranks1329]

Spot on. 👍

[@soulrebelno1]

I notice the new Vario panniers have attachments for threading straps through, or for attaching bungee hooks, which the old boxes don't seem to have. If it were me, I'd buy a Givi Trekker Outback 58 litre top box, it's solid and very secure. If you need more capacity, buy two soft panniers, and you could also strap a waterproof bag to the Givi top box and/or the pillion seat. The BMW luggage is very nice, but par for the course, it's rather expensive! 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I should have mentioned the tie down points….

[@garyhope0103]

Great, informative review again. Certainly looks, and sounds like they haven't really listened to their customers. I use GIVI triumph panniers and top box with inner liners and they are fine. Also means i can just lift the bags out and use like soft luggage, and not so fiddly haha. Although they do look very nice.

[@johnlam5908]

Great review Andy. Just another reason for me to wait for the new GSA version. Hopefully they keep to the Aluminium boxes which are so much lighter and functional. 🤞🤞.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I hope so too!

[@MrPaulyRed]

I don't have a GS and luggage isn't my bag - but weirdly I still enjoyed you talking about both! - keep it up ;-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you! Will do!

[@NicTheRip]

I just bought the exact same 1200gs you have, waiting for it to be delivered, they have the same boxes but by the sounds of it for day to day i will take the side boxes off for sure.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good choice!

[@forestboy54]

Great in depth review as always. Looked at these at my local BMW dealer and really didn't like em, far too complicated. Got top loading aluminium boxes on my 1250 GS for me by far the best for capacity lightness and security. FB👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’m glad we concur!

[@pgVeritas]

Very interesting review, Andy, thank you. BMW seem to be “just missing” with some of their recent design decisions. I’m an RT rider, and I do admit having borrowed an Adventure for a day, a hybrid of these bikes is what I’d like and the new GS, seems to be close to that ideal. However, those cases look like they’ll break easily, the mechanism looks really flimsy and due to the vario nature, the balance when extended with the handle, looks off. The top box looks great, though. It’s a good shape and a decent size. I like how the lid opens all the way up. The RT one annoys me that it stays open around about 45-60degrees. If it opened fully it’d make it easier to pack, but I suppose the contents would get wetter. I think the designers could have made a better fist of it with these cases. Making them more Ducati/KTM like aesthetically makes sense, but practicality is king. I’m guessing they weigh more because it can’t simply be a sliding mechanism with no reinforcements, otherwise the airflow would cause flex which would result in failure. I was surprised that there was no aluminium case analogue available, and perhaps as you say when the 1300GSA comes out that will debut them. I don’t like the idea of them opening and locking with the ignition, or faffing with the key. The RT is a simple button, as you know, and a remote if you’re away from the bike and forget to lock. The non-waterproof nature is also a pain too, and that’s probably due to the sliding sides. Anyway, it was an honest and informative review. I’ll be changing in 2025, so a long term revisit in a year will be very helpful!

[@douglasreid699]

i have a Kawasaki KLE 650 versys 2021 and i really like the way the luggage is integrated, the panairs are not that heavy when empty, the panairs fit a full sized helmet in each so when me and the wife park up, helmets and gloves in the panairs, boots in the top box and put our shoes on, one trousers fits in the top box and another fits in the tank bag. if i remember correctly, kawasaki have made a deal with givi for the luggage, i never had panairs before but i dont think i could do without them now (always had a top box). the BMW luggage looks stylish compared to before, has tech but not very practical which is the most important part, being practical. and at that price, i would be wondering if Givi or another company have something that better suits if i do buy the new GS this year. to me it feels they dropped the ball on a lot of the overall package in favour of more power and radar cruise control. front end looks like the radar was an after thought, teapotone found his paint where the legs are scratches quickly, the luggage could be better and cheaper. these are things i feel you souldnt have to worry about or consider with a premium product, they have had 20 years to perfect it and managed to get this one wrong i feel.

[@williamhudson3208]

Thanks for that Andy I’m sticking to soft luggage. As usual for most new stuff these days too expensive, too complicated and too expensive to fix. I seem to be turning into a Luddite not liking anything modern but we have to pay more to purchase and more to mend. So many solutions looking for a problem.

[@dadycool41]

Thank you very much for your effort and for this beautiful review. It helped me very much to make my decision. Regards from Turkey 👋🏼

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michaelworrall6804]

Hi Andy.. this was a great film and review…. I had added these to my order including liner bags .. not sure what they will be like .. and not sure if the bags are the liners ??? It did take my order to £25.5k !!!!!! A massive plus point for me is the bike looks good without them .. the R1250GS system looks awful without the pannier’s in my opinion ..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough - they do look good I agree....

[@ianmott856]

Great review seems its not just BMW who want to pull your pants down on OEM luggage . I was quoted £1700 for full set on my Tiger . Ended up getting Shad for £600

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Crikey!

[@PCERules]

Interesting review, I found that I could get two lids in my Givi Maxia 3 & 4. Handy on days out, but as you point out on tour - very unlikely to happen. I think some of the features are great, long term loans are always the best in terms of finding out real terms practicality. Did you use the Vario cases when out on your 1200 with Mrs TMF… or was the problem so bad you bought the Goldwing? 😉

[@bmano7850]

Love the video, as always... was just wondering about your stickers? Would love one or two on my GSA 👍

[@IanSixbikes-by6ei]

Interesting review, I can't help thinking the old Vario adjustment system you have on your 1200GS is far more robust than the new system on 1300GS which looks rather fragile (only time will tell)

[@simonbowen6653]

Too expensive and they mark that easily but loyal BMW fan boys will still buy them. Good review Andy.

[@ydarbg]

That's where the aluminium top loading is far superior as regards capacity waterproofing and longevity. The GSA with the crash bars and longer range is also invaluable.

[@AF-O6]

The scaffolding for the GSA style aluminum cases also acts as light duty crash bars…but these do look good.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

True!

[@martinhughes9769]

Nice review, not sure about the cost of the luggage and the electronics if and when they go wrong , ,

[@keithrogers2107]

Nice luggage, is there a cover for the electrical connection ,when the panniers are off to protect from rain !!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes - bike comes supplied with little plastic caps for that purpose

[@Magicinstalls]

These cases are fantastic! Certainly one of the top 5 reasons I purchased my 1300 GS! but here in the states these cases are under recall. not available. here is a brief break and I was able to acquire two side cases, but there's no end in sight for the top case. I'm all ready for the top case i've got my wiring harness and my upgraded rear carrier, but there is no top case available just yet. in fact the dealer informed me that they want my side cases back because they're back under recall again! I told him they can have them back when they pry them out of my cold dead hands! Lol i'm not giving them up

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I found them a bit of a faff to be honest....

[@Magicinstalls]

@@TheMissendenFlyer "faff" Had to look that one up LOL. lots of other options on the market, but this is the only set that expands and has central locking so it's a winner for me... cheers

[@dsimon9s29]

Thank you for posting. Lots of good information about the new bike. I would like to ask a few questions. Was it my imagination, the camera angle, or is the key fob huge? Looked pretty big to me. Does your Schuberth helmet fit in the top box? I wear a size 61cm. Can the anchor points on the cases be used to tie down additional bags or are they only for aesthetic value? In the case of the old top case/box, you could get an optional padded back rest for the pillion to use for some additional comfort? Is the same true for the new top case? Finally, like you, I would probably opt for an after market system (either a Mosko set or Lone Rider set), if they are available for the new GS. I don't do off road riding, but find them more practical than hard cases.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes the key fob is pretty huge! Yes my Schuberth fits, I think the tie downs can be used, yes you could and I don’t know.

[@johnmacdonald1878]

I don't have the Vario top box. Been meaning to get one. I used to stick my helmet in old top box. It was just a handy place to stick if you stop somewhere or bag of groceries or a case of beer. It is handy to take the paniers of and into the hotel. They came with the bike, and I pretty much just leave them on it JIK I need a case of beer. I guess the 1500 price tag is why dealers offer "deals with 1500 for accessories".

[@gavd6726]

Great review Andy. But I agree with other comments-over engineered and too expensive, plus the weight. I have a BMW 1200 RS and getting ready for a European tour in June. I was thinking about full luggage but I think i'll stick with my roll top waterproof bags (And cable locks). *Great channel. 👍🏼

[@carsyoungtimerfreak1149]

One of the benefits of the BMW panniers was the fact they got off and on very easy, at least on the RT. Much better than on a ST1100 for example. Seems no longer be the case with these R1300GS boxes. I'm not a big fan of a topbox. It's like a Porsche 911, there is a lot of weight behind the backaxle. A fundamental design flaw. All bikes I have tried with and without top box always ride a bit more sure footed without the box, even the RS. If I want/need to take luggage, I take my car. Much easier and much more room...

[@roadwarrior8560]

Top loading tough aluminium is the way to go for sure, monkey variety if you can get it is great, rugged and simple, that central locking/internal light stuff is just something else to go wrong, great video as always.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@andrewmanahan2469]

Agree 100% Andy. I find them a faff and never seem to remember the order of things .. guess I’ll get used to them. Thanks for the scratch tip .. they are a bit ‘precious’

[@stevetaylor8698]

A quick spray with some silicone lubricant spray (not an oil based spray) should end the stiffness on the GS' panniers which are getting a bit sticky now.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I have done that believe it or not....

[@elyoen77]

Very nice review, but what really caught my eye was your boots. Can you tell me what are those?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

They’re from Falco - see the link in the description to Bikerheadz for details!

[@MrD_2112]

F900GS adventure will be my new bike. Selling my 1200 GSA now

[@syncrosimon]

I think this complexity and expense is one reason a lot of people are put off the GS. It’s a bit like that massive Swiss Army knife with every function but is just a bit OTT. Still well thought out and executed.

[@cymonalex]

Great Review…. Thanks for posting. I’m a GSA guy, so I’m hoping they will be a little less curved and more styled on the previous, (only) because the conventional ‘square’ boxes hold more…. I guess we’ll know towards the end of the year? Love the USB plug idea tho 👍

[@barney3417]

Great review as always Andy, lots of extras you don't need at a great cost which is a BMW trait!! I've left BMW this year after 18 years due to cost . It's not that I can't afford them ,I just don't think they are any way good or even reasonable value!!

[@alanhall7213]

Great review... Thanks. I got a deal on the (older) vario luggage when I bought my GS. It's pretty heavy but has lasted well. The new design of both expanding the luggage and installing on the bike looks less effective than the older style. Unless I was again being offered free or heavily discounted pricing I'd be inclined to look aftermarket. BTW I can get a new nicely spec'd 1250GS for almost $10K less than a 1300GS from my local dealer in Western Canada. Is the 1300 worth $10k more than a new 1250?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well that’s the question!

[@davidmatthews3093]

Having used Givi Canyon soft panniers for a couple of years I’d never go back to hard cases.

[@John-cz2pe]

Very helpful again Andy. Re that central locking, are the cases open as in unlock when your riding, just tjinking of tossurs opening the top box when your at traffic lights. Not sure how that electric connection would fair over time and lots of vibration making it sloppy and prone to short circuit. The costs are now just insane though. I watched User name Kate the other day on the new BMW R1200 ninety, £200+ for a bit of a paint colour change and Bruce having to spend out to put a rear light on his 1300 to make it in my opinion legally safe. All these bikes now unless you have new and covered by the warranty, are becoming un ownable in my opinion

[@bsidethecside2283]

Interesting vid - cheers. The main feature for me would be the continually variable bit for when you want just a little more space. My old vario's are big or small and nothing in between. They're so wide when big that I never use the setting unless an absolute emergency. I'd strap stuff on the pillion before opening up. USB charging quite handy for charging a battery pack when on the go. As for weight, yes, they're heavy, but I still prefer to use the panniers alone to keep the weight low as the handling feels better to me.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes that's a good point re the continually variable thing - hadn't thought of that!

[@antonoat]

Great info as always Andy, I actually think the panniers on your older GS look better than the new equivalents! I do agree solo touring is best to use the top box and some throw over bags or a roll bag! Overall I reckon full luggage is better on the wing than on the GS! Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes agreed - the luggage on the wing is 👌

[@SS-ck3ew]

Well done. This is what’s needed. A real world look at usefulness including pros and cons. Thank you. SS

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you for watching!

[@KarlyBoy]

Great & Honest Review Andy, for me it’s Bumot every time, great quality & reasonably priced

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I've not heard of those!

[@jaffamaddin]

Good reveiw Andy. All a bit ponsey really LOL pays your money...makes your choice. Ref helmet fit in top box....im intered to know if helmet fits not for when touring when obviously its already full....its just handy for those midweek rides to local cafe or pub or bike meets so you dont have to carry your lid around :-).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That’s true…..

[@PAL01823]

I dislike side opening panniers so they were never going to be an option for me, I’ve been using Givi Trekker Outback’s for some time, in fact the same set have been on a Triumph Explorer and two BMW R1250GS’s, I already have the Givi top box plate and am waiting for the pannier rails to arrive, I usually have a 48 litre left and a 37 litre right, just waiting to find out how close the pannier rail fit is on the right hand side to see if I can use two 48’s when touring. I also installed a charging connection into the left hand pannier which I power with an optimate lead from the left hand side power port on my 2021 GS, I’ve found that I’ve never needed it so will be removing and blanking the hole, the additional power outlet on the 1300 is on the right hand side just behind the pillion foot hanger.

[@ElliotDooleysmith]

The light and USB is cool. I personally quite like my Tiger Expedition set. I use the topbox as a table and the panniers as little side tables, or as a quick seat when camping. Study and flat. So, they unlock when the bike is on? Do they lock again if you start moving?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good question!

[@philipTOMPSETT]

Really helpful and practical thanks. Inner bags have been my choice as they have carry straps and the whole pannier is not a realistic carry when the room is some way away even though it cuts capacity. Fingers crossed for the tardis version on mk2.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes agreed - realistically (especially with side opening) - you need your stuff in a bag or bags....

[@John-cz2pe]

Also, if you've ridden through some crap weather, to which we get quite a bit, hotel and b&b aren't too happy with you when you bring a filthy case into your room

[@stalbansbiker]

I have 2 Givi outback aluminium top boxes. The larger one takes both of our lids Paineirs we have the BMW vario Painiers and inner soft bags, which are great when you get to your hotel just lift out and use the shoulder straps leavingthe Painiers on the bike so no issues with the weight I also have a roll bag and a BMW rear soft bag and 2 sizes of tank bag so change the luggage to suit the ride I like the idea of the central locking ,light's and USB on the new BMW Painiers They lpook good and with inner bags just leave them on the bike overnight I dont ride with the Painiers on when blood biking or filttering so width is not a problem I think many will fit the aluminium boxes for the adventure look the previous BMW boxes have been made by Shad and Givi but with specific BMW mount The Givi outback trekers are the same and have specific model mounts but at a much reduced price

[@stuipooey1]

Excellent summary Andy. I share your opinion on the original varios, just too heavy and dont actually hold that much. I get pannier envy when on tour as i fight to get the varios closed as my mates stick their inner bags into their capacious aluminium boxes with consummate ease. 😅

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I share your pain

[@bsimpson6204]

Much better value cases from makers like GIVI, thanks Andy

[@critch.]

Ridiculous pricing by BMW. If I end up with this bike later this year or early next year, which I think will likely happen, I will be sourcing third-party luggage. I am totally with you on this 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad we concur!

[@neilcarrington5137]

Hi Andy . Very informative review as always. I was a lifelong BMW fanboy but not anymore due to endless reliability issues with them. Now on a Goldwing from Dobles after seeing your success with your Goldwing. Not seen yours in a while, do you still have it ? Cheers Neil

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh yes! (Mine was from Dobles too!) - love that thing! Roll on summer so I can use it more…

[@xfactor5876]

I toured the US on a 2000 BMW. The boxes on that bike were simple to use, held up very well, still too heavy, but they came off the bike and acted like luggage which I enjoyed. I cannot imagine anyone that really uses one of these bikes wanting a central locking system, but there it is. Definitely not improvements in my opinion.

[@martinsmotorbikestuff2478]

Agree that it's both a loss and a win compared to the old ones. I find the vario twisting knob more fiddly than the old handle. More importantly, I think BMW missed the point in the way the central locking works. I usually want access to my panniers when the bike is OFF and it could be a good idea to have your panniers locked when the bike is on, so now it's pretty much the wrong way around. I know that you can override the locking with the key fob, but if I remember correctly... the RT has a similar option where you simply lock and unlock with a pushbutton that is active only when the key is in proximity. I thought that was just brilliant and I think something similar could have been done with the GS. All pros and cons considered, I'd be looking for a classic vario case adapter plate 🙂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes the way the central locking works on my Gold Wing is brilliant - if I'm near the bike with the key they will open, if I wander away they can't be opened - seems very simple and just works.

[@beans4491]

Nice one TMF good watch and detailed wonderfully. This coming Friday my one will be delivered. Ive seen it at the dealers and it looks pretty smashing. Only issue is the luggage has not arrived yet, think BMW has had a little issue with them so ive heard on the grape vine, so will follow shortly. Kind regards.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes a recall on the top box apparently?