2023 BMW R 1250 R - Sit Back & Enjoy The Ride

[@rafaelcordoba13]

I ended up buying the Bonneville T120 ❤ and I’m super happy 😊 the only tech I wanted was cruise control and it has it. I feel proud each time I get off the bike and look how pretty it is and how it sounds. The torque is also amazing as this one.

[@andrewsmith3062]

I have owned two 1250rs in the past but I have just swapped one for the 1250r. For some reason I find the 1250r more engaging to ride despite the obvious wind blast. I have the factory fitted Flyscreen which helps a little, but I try to avoid motorway riding as much as possible, also average speed cameras now restrict you to 70mph which for wind blast is doable on a naked bike! The 1250r is a real joy to ride, comfortable and well planted on the road.

[@TeslasSecret]

Thanks for your opinion. I’m looking for something to bridge the gap between my old R Nine T and my old R1250RS. Sounds like the R might just be what I’m looking for.

[@andrewsmith3062]

@@TeslasSecret yes I agree it would be a great choice. The best of both worlds!

[@TeslasSecret]

@@andrewsmith3062 Looking forward to seeing what BMW will do with the new engine in the 1300GS. If that’s a significant step up from the 1250 I might just wait for that to come out in the R, otherwise I might trade my Ninja 1000SX for a 1250R.

[@user-tx5dy1fz4g]

Have you tried the Gs?

[@Elaine-hq5rq]

Does anyone know if I could put the R handlebars on the RS?

[@dennisballesteros4853]

Watched all the videos about this bike and this is the most informative and clear. I ordered exactly the same bike and can’t wait. I’m from Hawaii and bike coming from Germany so the wait is around 3 months.

[@Agent_954]

I love my 2016 Cordoba Blue R1200R. Bought it new and still love it. It does everything well and so much fun to ride.

[@TheWrittleRider]

Loved the Video and all the fun you seemed to be having! Mine is a 2019 model sport with all the bells and whistles and 4 years later I’m still in love with it. Really is no bike that ticks all the boxes still close enough to make me want to change…

[@bonwana2275]

Glad to hear it. I am still waiting on my 2023 model. Next month I expect it to arrive.

[@TheWrittleRider]

@@bonwana2275 You are going to love this bike for a long time! Enjoy!

[@acherouvis]

Your right, I couldn't pass it up. Your getting a bullet proof boxer engine with 136 HP, heated grips and heated seats, shaft drive, Brembo brakes and BMW quality .Thanks for the great review.

[@chrislecouteur2360]

Love that paint work

[@barrypearson8262]

Woooooh! Now you have thrown a spanner in the works. I was about to commit to the 1250r having sat on a few and hadn't considered the Bonneville even though I would prefer the Triumph brand. OK Triumph agents here I come. Great review by the way there are not many reviewers I trust but you are one of them 'Good Job'.....

[@paulguthenberg364]

Had a 2020, lost it when a van came in to a roundabout I was traversing. Love the updates 🤙 New one arrives next month. Yip Yip. Great honest review Mate 🇨🇦

[@pbofan]

Glad to see you enjoyed it a bit more than last time with the 2019, it’s a bike that deserves acclaim…I love my R1250R.

[@NothingToProve]

It's probably because I'm getting to be of a mature age, or some just call it "old". 😄

[@tomaskral4685]

I got the 22 model. The only problem is I stopped looking for another bike😉....It's just perfect. Well, maybe I might put on better bigger mirrors. But thats it.

[@Andrew-l3w6p]

just bought one...love it!

[@arnofrom9350]

Great review as always. Are you considering to do another review on the R 1250 RS as well. I know it is more or less the same bike, but with more faring, but nevertheless very curious about your opinion. Thanks!

[@leviefrauim1425]

Ayup, agree- an RS offers just that much more versatility for light duty touring.

[@RuledByMars]

Yes 1250 RS PLEASE

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, I plan on it, as I type this comment, I'm in Sardinia Italy, & will do that bike when I return home 😄

[@andywilliams622]

I have the2021 version, ticks all the box s for me !

[@sidneybroussard6669]

I have the 2020 version of the RS. Curious to know if any major updates. As always, great review. Thanks.

[@jamesr.667]

Hi thank you for your video ! Would you consider trying out the new MT10 for this roadster group ?

[@NothingToProve]

Na, the MT10 is in the super naked group, way more performance and lighter. But I think if a 2023 MT10 is available for me this year, I'll do a review of one. 👍😁

[@marekjandous3709]

The R was my first bike 😊. An amazing machine. I now have the S1000XR and the RT but I still have great memories of the R. I love doing long tours around CEE and Austria, so a naked bike eventually didn’t quite fit for that, but hell it was a great bike. It’s a luxury naked bike. My mods were a high Wunderlich seat and a handlebar raisor. I tried a Wunderlich windshield but removed it 20km later 🙂.

[@user-tx5dy1fz4g]

What about tour using Gs? Which better compare to the R?

[@SmittyAZ]

My '14 ZX14r and my '20 ZH2 have the 3 dot eco icon on the dash when you're riding like you've got nothing to prove. It's not a mode, just an indicator as to how much fun you're having.

[@gnmurray5955]

I don't use ECO mode but it is an interesting way to determine when the engine shifts the cam to the high load range. When the bar changes from green to grey the engine has just shifted to high load.

[@jeremiahnilsson7373]

Still think you are missing the weight/hk numbers. That will tell how quick the bike is. Good information especially when you compare between brands. Back on a RT by the way! Greetings from a cold Gothenburg.

[@ShineBright__]

For years that i follow you there aren't any other bike that makes you laughing of joy as much as the 1250 😂 .... part of the reason i bought 2022 GS1250 so i can laughing as much as you do 😅😂

[@NothingToProve]

Thank you 😊 The 1250 in this bike just works well, it fits the character, response, the impression that a "Roadster" requires to be called a "Roadster". Perfect application of a motor and a perfect execution of all the parts to make one of the best "Roadster" bikes out there today. Relaxed, comfortable, torquey, some performance but not too much...the ideal roadster. take care, Scott

[@mutemiz]

bike looks so clean

[@a.k1311]

O yeah O yeah o yeah its Got power and torque thats emotion!!! I think 😊

[@jeffkeni]

A very well done review.

[@AF-O6]

I love it…but for a bit more I can get a GS with some wind protection and more luggage options.

[@aerisurvey4934]

Brand new, I just made that comparison in the BMW dealer... and both full spec, was like 22k for the R and 28K for the GS. Well, if 6k is a bit more...

[@fyorbane]

Great review Scott. This is a great bike but just lacks character and the right noise for me. For this much money I would go with the more characterful new Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello. Keep them coming and ride safe.

[@NothingToProve]

Yep, me too! The Mandello just oozes character, if I had the money, one would be sitting in my garage right now 😁👍 take care, Scott

[@philiprobinson2011]

I have the RS, but I just love the way the 1250 engine is as happy pootling along at 40mph, as it is at say, the legal limit (and way beyond). Masses of power and torque on tap to overtake in an instant and no down shifting required. A great all rounder and for me the perfect touring bike. Excellent review, but just one comment, I might be wrong, but I don't think you can remove the pillion footrests, because the exhaust silencer uses the footrest as an attachment point.

[@davidkerley3405]

There are aftermarket hangers available to allow removal of the passenger pegs

[@philiprobinson2011]

@@davidkerley3405 Thanks for that info. I might look into it as I would like to replace the passenger seat with a rear pod and remove the rear hangers myself.

[@coyote8777]

I use Dynamic for the throttle response (smoother clutch engagement for me) and Road for the suspension (smoother/less harsh) in Dynamic Pro. Best of both worlds!

[@johnDukemaster]

Maybe the new R12NineT? Or the Speed Twin 1200? No matter what, one of these machines would make me happy! Thanks!

[@brianglendenning1632]

Rode through the Upper Hunter Valley, NSW, Australia last weekend on my S1000R, and what you think is terrible is a road something we would dream to have! It was harsh.

[@NothingToProve]

Sounds like you need an ADV bike and not a supernaked 😁🤣

[@brianglendenning1632]

@@NothingToProve I have ridden some roads around Dungog and thought that!

[@simontompson]

Sadly no Dynamic ESA on the ‘23 model here in the US. Those gold forks look gorgeous.

[@bartbauer3238]

I have a k1600gt, R1250GS, R1250R. BMW just makes great bikes. I also have several Triumph

[@juliangreaves5684]

Thanks for a good review of a great bike. I take issue with Shift-cam "kicking from two valves to four valves", however. The BMW 1250 is always using four valves and I've never felt a specific 'kick'. You seem to be imagining it has the valve tech of a '01-'12 Honda VFR 800!

[@NothingToProve]

Yes, I am aware of this, i just miss spoke, & no, I can tell when the cam profile changes. I don't have a vivid imagination. I've spent so much time on the shift cam boxer, if you did too, you would feel it too. I wondered just how many guys would call me out on that. You're the first. Edit: BTW, I did own a 2002 VFR800

[@juliangreaves5684]

@@NothingToProve Cool. We’ll have to agree to differ on the cam change step (I’ve been riding 1250’s too since they came out, but maybe I’m too insensitive!)😅. I do enjoy your videos though, so keep ’em coming! 👍

[@NothingToProve]

Sound is key when trying to find the shift. Once I was tuned into that, then came the feel or rush of pull. It's harder to sense it on a GS, RT is easiest, RS - only when riding it like a sport bike. Take care, Scott

[@juliangreaves5684]

@@NothingToProve Cheers Scott. I’ll try my R without earplugs. 😀

[@AfricaTwin1998]

Wonderful Review , I hope we can Ride BMW's together one day 😎

[@prof.2248]

best handling bike from Bmw with 1250 engine

[@Skyhigh275]

May I know the location of the ride please? It’s peaceful

[@nemanume]

Best bike i have ever ride, but i don't know why i can't leave an in line 4 cylinder and have this boxer, i think is something about the sound and 13krpm .

[@Johnny3514]

Great video as usual! Since I’m thinking about getting a 2019-20 model (because the new 2023 is a little expensive for me) I wonder what you think is the main differences between the two? Really love these torque-machines!! /Johnny

[@NothingToProve]

Honestly, nothing, it's still the same bike but the new some stuff comes standard

[@HockeyVictory66]

It’s no slouch with 134HP, great torque, ride modes, and some great tech features. Suspension with the ESA system is superior as well. It’s still very expensive though at $16k if you want cruise control and heated grips. You can get a lot of these features and similar power on Japanese bikes for a few thousand less. Cheaper to maintain than the BMW as well.

[@cabralad]

Good review, looks great without the touring set-up.

[@mariorhoelcastro6193]

good day , what specific muffler would you suggest to replace the stock ?

[@kheimseter71]

I have replaced the muffler on my 2019 model with an SC Project. A little more than 2 kg lighter and the swing arm is more visible.

[@250f5.6]

This is a very nicely tuned, programmed and geared bike. Great job BMW!

[@dariot707]

Yup great review, beautiful colours and tech but like you mentioned lack of character and soul 😢 it’s still beautiful

[@paulneedham3608]

Bmw r1250r every time over the Triumph i have had test rides on both. But i do have an Bmw R1250rt

[@danielberthiaume3648]

I like the 1250r but kitted with the windshield and sidecases/top case. Kitted like that I would prefer over a GS or an RT.

[@fabiena1787]

I've had an eco mode on all my bikes. It's fitted between my ears. I can enable or disable it at will.

[@pw9150]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ If talking about alternative emotions: would be rather the SpeedTwin for me, then the T120. But not for the retro, more for the whole agility & power, beside the weight

[@louislopez55]

You know, it would be very interesting to hear what bike you would buy in every group, for each motorcycle you review.

[@NothingToProve]

Hmm...interesting...hmm...🤔 That is actually a good idea for a video. Thank you!!

[@jsprite123]

I ended up buying the "old" old friend (2020 U.S. model). This is a nice upgrade, specially with the lighting (Finally LED's as opposed to halogens). Four years ago in your review you called the R120R the "Torque Monster", and yes, it is! I can only wonder how even better it'll be with the 1300 engine.

[@techspace9341]

Hi sir, where you from. Price of this bike in your country

[@leviefrauim1425]

I'm sure this is a swell bike but an RS, to me, offers a bit more practicality, storage options and comfort. If I was going to compare this bike to another, it'd be a Kawasaki Z900RS. I had one and loved it, nearly perfect out of the box for a 'roadster.'

[@kevinmason3141]

you should give RE-650 interceptor a try, ya can buy at least three of those for 1 bmw, two for the bonnie, and still have gas money....ride safe.

[@aerisurvey4934]

I know that they are both roadsters, but comparing the Triumph and this one... jesus, that´s a hard one to swallow. They only have the type, but completely different ride. Torque wise, from 105 to 143, don´t even understand how can be comparable. But I understand, we that love motorcycles, we love a lot of them, and the bonnevile is one of a kind... but not this kind.

[@NothingToProve]

I'm sorry but I don't make up the groups, the OEMs do along with the press guys. Sometimes it's kind of crazy but that's just what they do. In this case "Roadsters" are a very, very broad spectrum, unlike for example nakeds. take care, Scott

[@nunosantos8784]

​@@NothingToProve sorry Scott, I did not want to be rude, and I fully understand you, and they are in fact in the same group, just in a different league, like being more extreme, this one with the Royal Enfield. Keep the great content. Cheers

[@WesBurianFrank]

What jeans are these?

[@fasteddy3661]

The Moto Guzzi V7 has a 21 liter tank, the V9 Roamer only 15 liters...

[@NothingToProve]

Yes Sir, you are correct, I'll fix that in my charts, Thank you!

[@Donmcdo1925]

🇵🇭That's my Dream Bike, ha ha ha...but I wait the New Edition w/ Radar, 😅😂

[@freedomtochoose9661]

Hi, very good video about this best bike you doing. I want to buy this mc and just have some offer. I see you like it very much with your smiling and thumbs up. So about three weeks maybe i have my new blue/withe BMW R1250R.

[@marcelcoenen1437]

The R seems to be built for me - an upgrade for a F 900 R

[@colonelquickshifter6534]

I’m finding my triumph 1200RS amazing - but it’s just super fast… however on real roads my mates r1250 r keeps up easily and he’s a lot more comfortable

[@NothingToProve]

You've just defined the difference between the 2 perfectly 😊

[@sgomez3047]

1200S Monster look-a-like..anyone? Except my Monster is lighter, more HP a little less tourque though. 😢 LOL however..the Beamer is a gorgeous bike.

[@-thirteen]

Why anyone would block a single sided hub with a giant muffler is beyond me. This bike is interesting anyway

[@davidfennessey2727]

I wish Bmw would make this bike with a 4 Cylinder engine nice review

[@Erunanethiel]

That would be an s1000r

[@pw9150]

Then buy yourself the S1000R ☝🏻😂 that’s it ! But never comes to this wonderful Boxer Twin ❤

[@davidfennessey2727]

@@pw9150 yes but it has not got the shaft drive

[@johnDukemaster]

@@davidfennessey2727 Which is good, if we talk powerloss!

[@cliveomahoney4096]

Great vid. Excellent to see a BMW abused!

[@patrickbakjensen7561]

I think you are way off in your comparaison 😬 The T120 is no way near the R1250R. Where is Kawasaki Z H2, Moto Guzzi Mandallo, Honda CB 1000 R? They are closer competitors in my opinion, even Ducati Diavel V4 - but there is no direct competision to a BMW R1250R Thanks for a nice video.

[@THEREALZENFORCE]

And yet the Bmw K1300R is better than the R1250R is almost every way (looks, acceleration, top speed, handling, engine sound, etc)

[@NothingToProve]

Sorry man, I don't make up the groups, the OEMs and press guys do. Thank you for your opinion.

[@THEREALZENFORCE]

@@NothingToProve No problem, you are doing a great work with your high quality videos on your channel. Great quality and very relaxing to watch and listen to. Cheers.

[@kingkrimson8771]

Too bad the new Moto Guzzi Mandello wasn't on your comparison list as I think it's probably the nearest competitor to this bike

[@NothingToProve]

Agreed but even Moto Guzzi say it's a sport tourer, I have the V100 in the sport touring group chart.

[@stephenchapman8344]

👍

[@THEREALZENFORCE]

The problem is the R1250R and upcoming R1300R are still inferior to the discontinued K1300R that has the better 173hp and still 140Nm inline-4 1293cc engine, is quicker, faster, handles better, also has up and down quickshifter and electronic suspension and a 19 liters fuel tank. But it consumes 6.5 liter per 100km.

[@DeanAllen]

Is this British Sign Language or US 😂

[@gregorbabic7664]

Why do contemporary BMW’s have to look like cheap ugly toys now? The looks of this bike do nothing for me.

[@pixelmixture3067]

The look is horrendous … a neo retro design and it would sell like hot cakes

[@NothingToProve]

That would be the 1200 RnineT 😁

[@pixelmixture3067]

@@NothingToProve no cause thé r nine t is not confortable and not suited for a passenger

[@SumPixelz]

That boxer motor looks awkward on any bike, but especially awkward on this one.

[@tonifuso71]

nice review as always. i always loved this bike, i'm in a middle of a fight between the r 1250 r and the Guzzi v100. Can't decidide, but i already have the Bmw side cases, so...

[@douglaselliott8298]

I owned 6 BMWs over my 40+ years of riding. I have a 500,000-mile award and medallion from BMW North America. I lost all respect for BMW when they replaced their history of pragmatic engineering with trendy electronic gimmickry. Replacing the 1200/1250 R and RS's front suspension with common telescopic suspension(Inverted or not) rather than the clearly superior Tele-Lever enjoyed on the GS and 1200/1250 RT vindicated they had lost the faith(along with my longtime patronage).