2024 BMW S 1000 XR - Compared To - Suzuki 1000GX

[@Bearded.Wonder]

Scott, I really enjoy your no-nonsense approach to bike reviews. It’s not so journalistic in nature, covering specs and features like a bike launch, but more of a “real-rider” review with aspects regular riders care about. This approach mixed with a bit of light cynical humor makes for a delightful viewing experience. Thanks for what you do, sir!

[@aluisious]

Great. People who read spec sheets are useless. I can read spec sheets. The only thing that could possibly matter in a review is subjective experience and comparisons.

[@EVILSPAWN1003]

I just picked up a 2024 S1000XR in this exact spec, Gravity Blue TE. And OMG what a bike! Coming from super/hypernakeds like MT-10 SP and KTM SuperDuke i’m amazed at this bikes capabilities. I think it’s going to be a happy ownership experience.

[@aluisious]

Years back I was eyeing the SuperDuke, but I test rode one and was not happy with how badly the engine stumbled under 4k RPM. IMO, an engine that is only smooth over a range of speed that's 2x (from 4k to 8k RPM) is not really useful. I ended up getting a 2016 Multistrada, the bike that inspired the XR, for the smoother and more usable engine, better suspension, and touring/passenger capability. It has almost all of the same gutpunch of torque the Superduke had, but more versatile and comfortable.

[@Davidhall10]

Id take the Susuki , less maintenance, cheaper by price and maintenance, more service centers , cheaper parts and more reliable.

[@markm9978]

Why should the Suzuki have less maintenance? It also is not more reliable.

[@aluisious]

@@markm9978 Suzuki has a far better reputation for not raping your wallet than BMW has.

[@markm9978]

@@aluisious Suzuki has still the reputation for looking and beeing cheap, although this new model is expensive.

[@mikefrancais]

Another down to earth, real world review and commentary that’s also entertaining. Thanks! When I was in Germany with the US Army, my adventures on the Audobon we’re always cut short with either construction or people dawdling in the left lane.

[@NothingToProve]

Yep! That is always the problem, no need for speed limits, construction and traffic IS the speed limit.

[@MattieXMoto]

In usa you can get the Suzuki for thousands less than the base s1000xr. And the suziki will spend less time at dealership

[@splice247]

Depends on the trim, the Suzuki is pricey for what you get, $18k! The BMW starts around there, but you need to option cruise at least. But the BMW is a steal on the used market, got mine for 14k, 2yrs old, 8k miles. And the Suzuki only comes in terrible green (for now)

[@ridingdreamer]

Don't understand why would BMW spend more time with dealership. I ride a 2022 XR M Sport and it has never missed a beat.

[@MichaelRavenscroft]

Suzuki all the way

[@dominikknafelj8391]

@@ridingdreamerit’s because people believe that BMWs are unreliable.

[@themillionairebiker9381]

Sounds close, but I think I’m with you in choosing the BMW. Ride often and ride safe ✌️

[@bernhtp]

At least in the US, BMW bikes have a best-in-class 3-year warranty, which is important and valuable. Fully spec'ed, the XR has TPMS, which I find to be a very important feature. The XR paniers and top box system are top notch. I rent the XR when I go on Euro tours and I love how it all works. I'm not sure about the GX.

[@wtchr_]

Damn. This is the first time I see you try get to the top speed. It tells a lot about the bike 😂. Also it proves my point that every biker out there will get wild on right bike 😅

[@kramr7012]

Great review appreciate the common sense thorough, honest, straight talk. 🏍👍🏻

[@j.t.5826]

I had a 2016 1000 xr and loved the bike. I was thinking of getting the new 1300 but the xr has always been on my mind. This 2024 might do it.. we will see.

[@andrewooi2551]

It is so obvious you had a great time on the XR judging from the amount of your laughters whilst riding 😄

[@spikodemiko5514]

Nice comparison Scott. I considered the Suzuki before chopping in my 2022 XR for a new 2024 XR. I must say the 2024 has been improved subtly across the board. It’s smoother, has better fuelling at low speed and the seat is more comfortable over the 2022. I’m sure as you say the Suzuki will come down in price over time and also improve with feedback and development. 👍

[@rj-gd3pc]

No doubt about the Suzuki reliability, what do you think on BMW, is it reliable also in the long run? Trying to choose which one to buy. Thanks

[@spikodemiko5514]

I’ve had lots of BMWs over the years with very little trouble. My 2022 XR had a sticking indicator switch when I pulled it out of the garage after winter but that was quickly fixed under warranty. I did 10k miles on it with no other issues. I’d recommend the XR no question. Only had a couple of Suzukis (sv650 and a Busa) both reliable but reckon the build quality of BMW is superior not to mention the better resale value.

[@delk5024]

Absolutely love your videos. So much detail but never boring. Wish I lived in Germany so I can really enjoy a bike like this on the autobahn...

[@ArmadilloGodzilla]

Riding a motorcycle on the Autobahn at high speeds is not enjoyable. Way too much wind and noise.

[@360theosiris]

Exactly. Exiting the first time. Then you realise it’s actually uncomfortable, loud, boring, … after a couple of times.

[@eugene1392]

I have to admit, after several superdukes and Tuono’s the XR for me is the best bike I ever had

[@kugangles9860]

Same here.

[@BeginnerMoto]

Interesting opinion. I can see why you’d say that but that’s some fierce competition!

[@aderaldochagasjr3062]

OMG, what a piece of art! Saddly, we no longer have the BMW XR here in Brazil. The selling focus here is only on Big trails.

[@lyndonohue3350]

For all the added features, and higher build quality I would go with the BMW.

[@worldsnomad]

Bmw higher build quality? Ever owned bmw?

[@lyndonohue3350]

@@worldsnomad About a dozen, they have all been great, zero problems. I'm not a brand loyalist, have owned Kawasaki's, Suzuki's, Yamaha's, Honda's, Ducati's, Triumph, and one Harley. The build quality on mt BMW's has been superior.

[@pgaribay8487]

Thanks for a sound review and also the MXR. I will pick up me SXR M sport next week. Can’t wait to get down to the nice roads in DE and AT. Grew up on California and miss the sweeping twisties which there are few of in DK. Would have loved to gone for the MXR, but need the top case for my pillion. Keep up the great work 👍

[@ferociousfrankie]

They need to update the switch gear to be backlit and add a proper brake light.

[@raptorboy00]

Yesss! Thanks for driving fast this time!

[@onerider808]

You ride a bike, drive a car, fly a plane.

[@otter7467]

The dealer price difference is a lot more than the 2k where I'm at already, Midwest USA. I'm currently cross shopping the two but my price delta is 6k, USD. The GSX is 16k before taxes and the XR is 22K before taxes. Is the BMW worth $6,000 more? I'm guessing not, if the 2k difference is so close, but this review has been the most helpful for comparison. Thanks.

[@dgomes265]

Get a used XR and keep the change. For the $2k. BMW all day.

[@karlodraskovic1202]

one of my favorite motorcycle channels, ( but i cant watch xr dirty)

[@dennisclevenger5000]

Limited availability on parts in the USA. Matter of fact very little access to BMW dealerships in my area.

[@inked-96]

In the UK. GX £ 14,999 with luggage and heated grips. XR TE £18,850 with luggage.

[@MV-XD2]

Presumably that luggage cost includes the panniers and topcase you cannot get, even as an option on the GX? Along with many more included extras, the actual price difference is much smaller. Plus the low suspension option and a wide range of seats and a ton of accessories. The XR is an evolution in its third generation. The GX is new and they haven’t thought the bike out properly yet. It has a lot to catch up. I know what I’d buy, every day of the week.

[@inked-96]

@MH-xd2nd Panniers. Spec for spec. The XR is £4k more. GX is cheaper to service, cheaper to insure, but agreed, I'd rather have the XR. The XR doesn't offer anything more than the GX other than 'premium material' 20hp and 4nm.

[@MV-XD2]

Checking at launch and still on the Suzuki site it is £14799 not including luggage (£1390) or heated grips (£300) or centre stand (£470). Seems despite it only just being launched they’re already throwing it all in with the + version and dealers are already discounting further. This is what got Suzuki into to dire financial trouble 15 years ago. Fast forward a year or two and I suspect they will be struggling to give them away.

[@inked-96]

@MH-xd2nd Never got of their website. Dealers. Like my local one have them in at £13,199, with panniers, 13,999. Heated grips thrown in for free. Ultimately, it's personal preference. A used 2023 XR TE with say 3k miles is around 13-14k and cones with 2 year warranty, a brand new GX is the same but had 7 year warranty.. If you keep your bikes for 2 years and then change, go bmw. If you want it longer term, then the GX..

[@박상진-z6y]

Thanks for the excellent comments. Here in Korea, BMW 1000XR costs 10 Grand more than Suzuki 1000GX. My choice here in Korea is Suzuki.

[@AlexanderGeorgiev-Marck]

Hi, could you review Honda X-ADV 750?

[@markm9978]

Scott on a scooter - funny idea.

[@javasoup]

Can you do a compare of the F900XR to the S1000XR? I’m thinking of upgrading… or perhaps thoughts on moving up to the R1300GS instead?

[@hangpilot1200]

I traded my 23 S1000XR for a 24 S1300GS. XR is an incredible bike, but the buzz at 80mph (interstate riding in the US) made the mirrors useless. Also, cruising in 6th, the RPMs were just a little too high & frantic for me. I've never liked the looks of a boxer motor, but talk about endless low-down grunt. I took one test-drive on the 1300GS and was convinced. It's actually smoother and not even trying hard at 80mph. For sportier back roads, the XRs brakes and shifting are much better. For 2-up short trips, the GS is king w/ adaptive cruise control, ride height, blind spot monitoring, and rear pre-load. My wife prefers the GS... but, it did cost $6k more!

[@claucrish4382]

"Ooook,I slow down,if i have too" 😂😂

[@TheJWC56RSA]

Interesting and thanks! Getting pricey! Also regards and blessings to Tina. She is on our prayer list.

[@davewilton3101]

Your chart at 2:04 would you be able to make it downloadable please. I'm currently riding a challenger but into my 70s now I am starting to find the weight an issue so I'm in the market for something lighter. I've got a 30" inseam so should I go with a XR it would need to be with the factory powered suspension.

[@motorman7113]

Thanks for the comparison Scott. Also worth mentioning is that the Suzuki does not have a factory top-box as an option. This, and that fact that the Suzuki's windscreen is non-adjustable while riding are two negatives that are hard to overlook. The price difference is interesting, depending on which part of the world you live in. Here in NZ the Suzuki with panniers but no centre stand or heated grips (extra cost options) is NZ$29k. The BMW, which has just launched here, fully optioned but without luggage is NZ$39k. Panniers and a top-box would take it to about NZ$42k. Is the BMW the better bike? Probably. Is it worth the more than thirty percent extra cost? Probably not.

[@sivanm2130]

The reasons to get the Suzuki are always: reliability, lower cost of repairs and DIY. However with more complexity, it becomes harder to work around the cost cutting measures. The front brake, for example, is very hard to upgrade on your own, because it’s tied to cruise control. It’s just too much hassle to get it right off the show room floor.

[@BeginnerMoto]

This. People rave about Japanese bikes all the time but they don’t realize or care that the European competition has better parts. I’d much rather spend a little more to know I’m getting steel brake lines, brembos, Ohlins, etc.

[@colombus36]

What is the name Brand of the camera on the left handlebar please ? Want it for my bike too .Thanks !

[@NothingToProve]

Gopro Max.

[@bobcobb7719]

Great review. Curious how you’d compare this bike to the multistrada GT you tested a few months back? I know most people compare that bike to the GS but engine and drivetrain wise I see it comparing to this one…

[@MaxPowerFilthcrud]

Hi Scott, additionally what you didn't cover is used market prices. In my experiences the BMW prices are much more stable than the competition. The Suzuki is too new to really say something, but I think future reviews/comparisons could really benefit from this information.

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, I mention the BMW will keep its value more than the Suzuki near the end of the video, no one ever does a chart or comparison simply because each country has different values based on availability/sales/network/opinion of the bike...etc. take care, Scott

[@Seale-en2fp]

The exhaust sounds better on the BMW when you put it into Dynamic Pro.

[@willdebeljak7062]

only when the valve opens, typically mid-high rpm, even in Dynamic Pro. Although you can tune it to be open always.

[@Seale-en2fp]

@@willdebeljak7062 I have the 2024 S1000XR and the exhaust pops and bangs in the Dynamic Pro setting.

[@willdebeljak7062]

@Seale-en2fp yeah but the valve is still closed and muffles the exhaust noise

[@edwardholland9474]

Really need to throw in the cost of panniers for the XR. Quick check says another $1.500 USD Bmw bags I think are 32L and the Zooks are 27L . So if you want bags, ( I do ) the price difference is more like $3,500. I have had an XR for 9 years as of last week. Believe the GX is the closest competitor to the XR and has got me thinking now that I have 80K miles on it.

[@edwardholland9474]

@@valebliz Reliabilty has been good. Only issue I have had was a bad stator at 67K. Once I got the bike set up the way I wanted it, I have been hard pressed to find a better bike for what I do. Nine years in, still looking. I extol the virtues of the XR all the time and two of my friends have bought them. There really isn't anything they do not do well.

[@omemies01]

Close in price???Prizes in the Netherlands for BASIC SUZUKI GX 18.499 (incl 6 year warranty )and BASIC XR +/- 26.400 🤔.

[@aadzaad]

basic xr is 23700

[@evanmichailidis633]

Hey Scott, are you by any chance going to rewiew the new 2024 Yamaha Tracer 7 GT?

[@NothingToProve]

I would like to, if I can get my hands on one.

[@rodneybutler7939]

ANOTHER GREAT VIDEO !!!

[@rlw85]

Do quick shifters damage the gearbox’s. The s1000XR really could do with the shift cam engine for the lower rpms.

[@NothingToProve]

Yep

[@MV-XD2]

The S1000 shiftcam does not have a low lift cam profile for low speed riding like the GS version. It’s designed for ultimate higher power, which is why they didn’t add it to the standard XR.

[@ThaSideWeed]

Here the suzuki is around 5k less as a base version. The XR is not sold as a base model, stock bikes have the dynamic and touring package, and can't order something with no packages. Imo, the suzuki is an overall better bike, especially street-wise, and I've owned an XR for 5 years now. Both wobble above 135 mph, but the GX includes fork preload adjustability while the XR does not. Which is just bad design. The electronic suspension implementation is overall better on the GX as well. The quickshifter is better on the GX imo, although you seem to think otherwise I notice. Centre of gravity seems lower on the Suzuki, contributing to it feeling less top heavy. GX is a bit less gutless down low. The XR needs a map to be reasonable, while the GX feels more usable without one. Great bikes, but I'd rather spend the extra money on mods for a GX than on fixing stuff and design issues on the XR, which I've done once before. If the difference was 2k, I'd probably get another XR. It's not though.

[@langhamp8912]

You're seriously going 160 mph in jeans? This is a low-risk high-consequence situation. MotoGiant just got his foot degloved from an 80mph wreck. Between Suzuki and BMW (I've owned 4 Suzukis and 1 BMW), I'd lean towards the BMW; whenever I'm at any Suzuki dealership trying to get warranty work or parts, I get treated like trash. In contrast, BMW repaired my BMW out of warranty (twice!), and even asked if I wanted to test ride the S1000RR. The Honda/Suzuki/Kawasaki/Yamaha dealership experience is truly wretched.

[@churchofbrap876]

At 160 most gear is probably irrelevant. Aside from maybe airbags.

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, gear will protect me at that speed? 🤣🤣🤣

[@langhamp8912]

@@NothingToProve Full high-quality leathers aren't a vaccination against a high-speed wreck but they sure help. I had a highside on a 3rd gear corner on the street (of course it was one week after a trackday), slid for what felt forever, and the leathers were barely scuffed. Most high-speed wrecks aren't fatalities, anyway. Most people survive them.

[@tigerick7291]

Which country are you in?

[@kugangles9860]

MotoGiant's bike crushed his leg. No amount of leather or boots will save you from a 500lb bike falling on your leg at 75mph.

[@EliteRock]

I wonder if a re-map could could fill in the BMW's sub-4000RPM band and get it on par with the Suzuki, get rid of the low-RPM ultra-lean burning they have to use for emissions. If I was spending that kind of money it would be a no-brainer (if it's do-able). Not that I am, but intrigued by these bikes because they bring back fond memories of the turn-of-the-century FZS Yamaha Fazers.

[@awakeadventurer9198]

I believe there are tunes etc to improve the low end power.

[@rowanlawson3844]

How would the Tracer 9 GT+ compare to the S1000XR?

[@Rudy_Mnogo_Njegovan]

They're not comparable, XR is much better bike, once you test drive them you'll see. Better engine (120 vs 170HP) suspension is much more planted and comfortable and adaptive on the XR Brakes are much better and stronger on XR. Display resolution and clarity in better on XR and so on.

[@Bikerhombre]

Hi Scott, if money was not an issue, would you purchase the M1000XR over the S1000XR? I realize the M does not have the hard luggage capability and the smaller screen, so not as good for touring. I also saw that BMW is speed limiting the soft luggage pannier to 130KM, which is crazy on that bike. Ducati can make the RS with hard luggage, not sure why BMW cannot.

[@willdebeljak7062]

if your not riding @ 10k-14k rpm than save your money. The S1000 XR is stupid fast already for street riding.

[@rj-gd3pc]

What about reliability? Are BMW motorcycles dependable in the long run? Anyone can help ma please

[@worldsnomad]

Not anymore,too complicated and too many parts that goes wrong, even their engineers can't fix them on occasion.

[@creedm3040]

Awesome video! I love that bike! Best!

[@jensbiederstaedt8022]

Looks like I would love the BMW if I could afford several bikes. A bit off when you live in Canada where the roads are shitty and the speed limit is a joke.

[@thodoris3790]

Scott,you ve ridden almost every bike.can you give me a little help and tell me which bike had the best wind protection in the adventure(or sport turing with high handlebars) category in sub 12k euros price?same heigh as you

[@NothingToProve]

Well, right off the top of my head... Sport/touring: BMW900XR & Yamaha Tracer900 do very well ADV: 900 Tiger & Moto Guzzi V85TT & Versys 650 (but the V85 has to be the new one, 2024 model year, they really improved the aerodynamics this year and it's now manually 5 position adjustable.) I just rode it again this morning for a shoot that a company was doing.

[@thodoris3790]

@@NothingToProve thanks..i really like vesrys,but i want more powerfull motor.thanks again

[@donnyazoff980]

I have test ridden both of these bikes and preferred the BMW. The foot pegs were too high on the Suzuki so there wasn’t much leg room and the XR felt faster although I loved the suspension on the GX.

[@Wollestar]

You are the first peron I have seen, commenting on the foot peg position of the GX in a similar way to me. I sat on the GX in a show room and at 190cm my calves were touching my hamstrings and I couldn´t move my legs anymore. That was in regular jeans, not even riding gear. And even though I do go to the gym and don´t skip leg day 😛, I would not say that I have massive legs.

[@donnyazoff980]

@@Wollestar I am 183cm tall and like my legs stretched out. I believe the comfort seat on the Suzuki is a bit higher than stock so that would create a little more leg room but likely still not enough for me. Also found the motor a little underwhelming, it only had 30kms on it so no doubt still very tight but certainly felt slower than the BMW.

[@Wollestar]

@@valebliz maybe they had a low seat option or whatever. But I didn't fit at all

[@IanTed]

Not a fan of in-line fours due to lack of torque but I’d have the BMW.

[@terrykelly8982]

Dang really? I guess in the USA it is just 3/36k ?

[@pbrigham]

I don't know were you get this prices, the BMW with OUT ANY add ons in Spain starts at 21k, well for 21k I can have the Suzuki fully equipped with proper luggage and still don't hit 21K.

[@NothingToProve]

Germany

[@pbrigham]

@@NothingToProve Gosh, you are right, just went to the Germany site and starts at 19.280 EURs, amazing! 2000 EURs diference from Spain.

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, it really depends on the country you live in and what agreements were made with that particular OEM, some good, some not so good for us guys buying bikes.

[@patrickbakjensen7561]

In Denmark the price diffence between the cheapest models it 7.000€

[@tainis1996]

Why the forged over the carbon?

[@NothingToProve]

Stronger, cheaper, more durable.

[@dstjepan]

How is sitting on XR compared to others? Not just Suzuki.

[@naifalsane1014]

Suzuki, better looking.

[@kowalski2334]

Lol no way

[@markm9978]

First of all I would recommend to take English lessons and learn to build a whole sentence.

[@Chris-vq5vr]

@@markm9978😂😂

[@benkelly2190]

Not?

[@boodog4023]

@@markm9978 Perhaps you could purchase an English dictionary and look up the word "Ellipsis."

[@dennisclevenger5000]

I'd have to choose the Suzuki due to price and dependability

[@cengizkurban]

Today's comparison, suzuki is just about 20k and bmw is 32k in Turkish market. I don't know. A lot of price difference to select bmw.

[@billboardprint]

Bring back the old intro music...

[@TomMFP]

I feel like after this video, you should immediately hop on the Suzuki and give your thoughts

[@GameWinner85]

Suzuki my choice :DX :) sorry bmw, but K5 Epic. History tech :D

[@stephenchapman8344]

👍

[@terrykelly8982]

How much is the BMW's 3 year warranty worth compared to the Suzuki's 1?

[@donnyazoff980]

The BMW comes with 5 year factory warranty.

[@Vjekoslav-vf3hr]

Wind buffeting is horrible. Even with windscreen in upper position. I have ridden it 2w ago. Compare it with Multistrada 2024. Duc is nice & quiet on 200kmh.

[@tomtraynor5384]

4:04-5:05: Lack of grunt out of cruising RPMs and outright preference of Suzuki motor leaves me feeling OK with my Pikes Peak. I can roll on the throttle in any gear accelerate from same/legal speeds to illegal speeds--no fuss. Yes--overpriced. I'd still take a Porsche Carrera over a mid-engine Corvette, too. Both great.

[@jorgwammers660]

I rode both and bought the GX. Why? I was really annoyed by the seat of the XR. Totally disliked the bucket seat feeling. Tough vibrations are on the XR as well. On the other side the engine and especially the quickshifter of the Suzuki are absolutely premium. Such a smooth power unit… In addition the 2024 color shemes of the BMW do not match my taste. About the price the premium of the XR is fine for me. There are several not important but small addons the BMW delivers / are available like keyless ride, emergency system, factory heat grips and center stand and the better cockpit control. Nevertheless in the end the feeling on the Suzuki was just perfect to me. With a different seat the BMW might have been an option.

[@NothingToProve]

They go rid of the "bucket seat" in 2024, so I wonder if you rode a 24 model.

[@jorgwammers660]

@@NothingToProve Ungorunately yes. The regular demonstration bike was just sold some Days before and the new one not yet at the shop. Wasn't aware that there was a noticable change in the seat with the '24 model 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@CaptainDangeax]

BMW too expensive too buy and too maintain, no torque in mid range, I don't need a useless sports bike on the road, I bought the GX.

[@wazreba5859]

In this price point? Hayabusa all the way- fame not hype (if you would enter the pub and say XR or XS? 🤣🤣🤣)

[@user-MohamedAhmedUAE]

Japanees bike easier in maintenance and more Reliability than European bikes

[@markm9978]

Everyone knows that this generalisation is not true.

[@worldsnomad]

​@@markm9978everyone that's experienced ownership of both, knows the answer.

[@integratian530]

I'm a mechanic. Japanese bikes are seriously higher quality when it comes to build quality, tolerances , and the biggest one design. The European brands will have better suspension, brake, and specs. Japanese quality is better in the things you don't notice unless you are keeping the bike for a long time (longevity) and or work on your bike yourself.

[@Jamesulchip]

I see what you have proven here

[@arnohag1]

Still can't accept keyless on motorcycles. With a normal key you can't lose it when riding. It's not a car! Thats what turns me off buying a new Beemer. I'll stick with my older model.

[@NothingToProve]

Maybe you should inform BMW that pockets work in a car but not on a motorcycle🤣🤣🤣

[@arnohag1]

@@NothingToProve Ha Ha so funny.

[@fearhand12]

FIRST😂

[@chuckp.4740]

4 grand difference in price in some places.