Re-farkling My New BMW R1250GS Adventure

[@dimitrioslekkas2864]

Congratulations my friend for your new BMW...thanks to you, 4 months ago, I bought a used R1200 GSA, perfect machine....... and you look and sound happier and younger...hehe...cheers from Melbourne - Australia..

[@theboomerangbiker1966]

G'Day Dimitrios, I'm based up near Kinglake in Victoria, maybe we'll see each other on the road sometime. I'm new to vlogging but I'm gonna give it a red hot crack mate. Drop by my channel if you get a minute, good onya.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Cheers Dimitrios, hope you are enjoying it and will again after your lockdown. Ride safe

[@jpoynton5339]

Superb overview of some great aftermarket additions. The professionalism with which you approach each job is commendable and appreciated, as I wouldn't want to do any of these mods without doing them right. The British colloquialisms and terminology is always enjoyable to hear on this side of the pond. Ride safe!

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks for the comment. ‘If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well’ 👍🏻

[@roadglide]

Absolutely the best looking ADV bike in the business. Ride safe snd ride often. Peace.

[@nickhodgeUK]

I’ll keep trying. You too 👍🏻

[@michaelwilliams3861]

Hi Nick, good precise information. I was today de-farkling my GSA 1200 in preparation for receiving my 2021 GSA Rallye, which arrives in 2 weeks, got my order in very early.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Well done Michael. The Rallye is pretty. Hoping to ride one in a couple of weeks too as well as the R18 for ‘fun’ 👍🏻

[@razorwired130]

Love that Exclusive Colorway!

[@nickhodgeUK]

My favourite. Still not a GS(A) colourway I like as much. Triple Black close and maybe new ‘trophy’? 👍🏻

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

Look at you and that fancy beautiful motorcycle. Wow! That bike looks amazing, congrats.

[@nickhodgeUK]

That’s better. Thank you 🤣🤣

[@mrtinatom]

What a fantastic video, very professional and detailed. Thanks for your hard work.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Tom. Means a lot. Not only the bike work but editing and stuff too is a pretty long task. Gradually improving 👍🏻

[@jamessuttie1261]

Hi Rick. I will be installing my Denali D4 bundle tomorrow. Wish me luck. I liked this video more than the one you did on your GS, which was excellent, BTW. But installing all of the Torx screws into their original location is simply brilliant. A few years ago, I installed similar lights on a GS, without noting the Torx screws, and it was a gong show! Cheers.

[@jamessuttie1261]

Sorry, I meant Nick!

[@nickhodgeUK]

Slowly and carefully will be fine and not getting scared when she looks very different!! Good luck 👍🏻

[@nickhodgeUK]

I’ve been called far worse 🤣👍🏻

[@chriswalker9850]

1st class job there Nick, and the bikes looking good. Another great video, just working through them 👍

[@nickhodgeUK]

Cheers Chris. Enjoy. Can’t wait for spring and travel restrictions lifting 👍🏻

[@markdonegan1161]

Great job Nick, your bike is gorgeous lovely colour 👌🏻

[@nickhodgeUK]

Year in now. Still love it 👍🏻

[@robstenhouse924]

Hi Nick, just discovered your video's, they are brilliant. Love your bike, hopefully I will have my GSA 1250 soon. Keep up the good work.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Rob. They are lovely!

[@James-vw8dv]

Really enjoy your videos. Recently fitted exactly the same gear to my 1250 GS. I bought all the gear from Steve too, nice chap. It took me ages to fit it all but as you say pride of ownership means for a nice neat and careful installation.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks James and exactly that I’m very pleased with my dealership but I know I’ve used enough zip ties, I know where the wires are. I know they are clean and tidy and, it makes it mine! Ride safe 👍🏻

[@roncoleman8351]

Great work Nick...great video!One of the homemade ‘lessons learned’ mods that I applied to my GSA from my K1600 was to insert some window screen (the real stuff, not the rolled up flimsy kind) between the plastic BMW radiator covers (the set from the BMW accessories catalog) and the radiator. For the GSA I measured and cut about a 5.5” x 7.5” sheet I think. Just loosened a couple of the bottom screws on the rad cover on each side and slide in the screen behind the cover. A 5 minute job. On my K1600 the OEM plastic rad cover was insufficient in protecting the rad fins from penetrating debris, bugs and tar from chip & seal pavement. Over a hot summer they all combined into a goo that hardened on the fins once they got past the the holes of the OEM guard. Over time...about 15,000 miles...the bottom third of the rad clogged up and the cooling system had to work that much harder, to the point of occasionally overheating. Cleaned the K1600 radiator, applied the window screen, and doesn’t seem to affect air flow or cooling system/fan temperature engagement. So far on my GSA the window screen has done a great job of adding a ‘mesh’ layer of protection that I can easily replace any time I inspect or clean the rad. Granted, the GSA rad position is much higher up under the fairing than the K1600 and therefore not as exposed, but I thought it worthwhile to apply to my GSA as well. I was surprised at how much debris the mesh captured and kept off the fins on my GSA during a recent 4 day camping trip, and as far as I can tell no effect on the cooling system. You could try it and see if it works for you.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks for so much detail Ron. Fortunately I know what Window screen is as I have family in the US (Oz use it too). We don’t have it here in the UK but there’s probably a substitute. On end of season (thorough) clean I normally pressure wash (on wide spread nozzle and fairly low pressure) from the BACK of the rad which is very accessible on the GS. That drives out forward any debris, suicidal bugs and such although as you say it nowhere near as exposed as some front mounted model rads. I then immediately use my blow drier from same direction to drive out a LOT of retained water and also pay special attention to the fan. Ride safe 👍🏻

[@brandon_wren]

Another excellent video, Nick! Once the US figures out this stupid Stop Sale, I can't wait to get my new 1250GS and start getting it prepped for proper Rocky Mountain touring.

[@nickhodgeUK]

We’re the same here Brandon. Although winter has less riding for fun appeal. Hoping 2021 will be ‘our year’. Enjoy the bike and ride safe 👍🏻

[@ELGUAPOMOTO]

thank you for this very detailed diy work. this is rare indeed.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thank you 👍🏻

[@pollojavier69]

Hi Nick, great video and here are a couple of ideas for the K2. I put my K3 on top of the rear indicator, (not under), and the front one on the screw holding the head light protector and black plastic deflector, just under the wind shield. My bike is A 1200 GSA. Let me know if you want a photo of them...!!! Hope it helps👍

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi. Hanks for that. My rear one is fine. I though of that screw but need to make a bracket to make it sit right. Just lazy 👍🏻

[@chrissteer7333]

Hi Nick I really like your new bike I’ve not fitted extra lights to mine yet but really tempted now and will fit them myself They really look good on yours . Looking forward to your next video.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Chris. The fitment and looks are one thing but they actually work as a visual beacon too which is re-assuring and also have great features (flash to pass, etc) 👍🏻

[@jackchristodoulou197]

Nothing beats the feeling of fitting farkles on a new bike

[@nickhodgeUK]

It was a satisfying full day for sure 👍🏻

[@staudio]

Very thorough video. I like people that show "pride in ownership". Even though I'm a KTM owner but you got a great bike.

[@nickhodgeUK]

It’s a big thing for me. I ride it a reasonable amount 5,000 miles a year but take heat pride in it. Ride safe 👍🏻

[@SA_IN]

That's a Beautiful Bike! Nicely Done and Superbly Showcased. Wish I could give more than just one measly 'like' to this video. I hope you have an absolute blast riding your GSA sir!

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks a lot. Amazingly this video so far has no dislikes 👎🏻 that normally comes very early on almost like there’s a dislike machine 😂 never really got the dislike. If you don’t like it hit the next button 😂 I shall enjoy riding her. Thanks again 👍🏻

[@davidharland2194]

Very professional job. I normally put skeen (I thinK) rear lights on tapped into indicators brake and sidelights without a problem. I’ve just taken delivery of the updated GS and the indicators brake. And side lights are built into the indicator. I already bought the Denali rear lights and wonder if the the management system would work

[@nickhodgeUK]

It’s probably the thing I like most about the GS. Think it really improves the road presence 👍🏻

[@johnr6940]

Well done once more Nick.... just following your lead 😁

[@nickhodgeUK]

Cheers John 👍🏻

[@davidharland2194]

Beautiful bike, nicest I’ve seen

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks David. I like her 🤣

[@jamessuttie1261]

Hi Nick. Please ignore my last note. I persevered and after another 45 minutes, I got it. Sorry to keep bothering you! Cheers.

[@storidiot1]

this is the best video on youtube,thanks a lot Nick :-) im planning to buy 2021 1250 gsa.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Hans and thanks for the kind comment. You are in for a treat with the new bike. Ride safe 👍🏻

[@gesanners1417]

Thanks for your informative video's Nick. It's always interesting to see how other owners evaluate the kit on offer, some of which is very expensive. Personally I've had recording problems with the Innovv K2 Dashcam system although I've yet to see anyone else report similar. For the first few weeks my DVR was shutting down just a few mins into a ride and thereafter the DVR recorded a couple of mins sporadically. I had installed the power converter in exactly the same place you and countless others have ie under the rider seat.It transpired that the converter was overheating and shutting power off. I've moved it to a position behind a side panel and it now works without fault. I hope my experience might help anyone else with a similar problem. I have one remaining issue - front camera footage is extremely 'wavy'. I've tried locating the camera in various positions but the problem persists. I've ruled out electrical interference by swapping camera connection at DVR. Steve Welham at Innovv UK informs me that excessive vibration from the engine is causing a 'jellow effect'. Innovv are currently developing a vibration reducing bracket to address this common problem. You have suggested that you might move your front camera to a bracket off the shield mount or afix to the faring using a 3M pad. I have already tried exactly those positions. I found the 3M pad to be a disaster because the camera was vibrating AND bouncing around on the fibreglass. In my case the shield mount bracket is the best of a bad job. I've tried using the rubber washers provided to dampen vibration to no effect. I'd be interested to see how you get on. Gerry.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Gerry. You’ll see on my original Innovv fitting video that I had this ‘waving’ when it was under the beak and I thought it some kind of vibration resonance, but since mounting on front aux light it’s been steady and fine. Not had DVR issues. I have my seat high at front and low at back so it probably gets plenty of air??? I thought it may get hot as it’s on top of a heat sink but I’ve deliberately had Velcro pad to try and protect from heat without ‘wrapping’ it over the sink fins which would stop dissipation a little. No issues. I did have issues with frozen clips which I cured by going with a default (1 min) clip. I was always tempted to go as long as possible so I didn’t have so many to cope with but if it froze you had minutes of frozen footage rather than 1. I also fixed the freezing by buying a dash cam card. Seems even the high speed ones don’t like read/write continuously. They’re more expensive but work. There’s a list on the innovv site. My GPS under the side panel is flaky on this bike where it wasn’t in the old GS so have to pay that some attention. I also feel they could improve the nasty plastic screw connectors. Thing they may be many of the issues??? Ride safe

[@stevethomas99100]

Nice work Nick.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Steven 👍🏻

[@simon758ful]

Excellent video Nick - this is exactly the installation I'd like to do on my own GSA. From a personal point of view, I would liked to have seen where you had routed the various cables under/around the fuel tank and fairing panels, but understand the need to keep the video a reasonable length! I'd also be very interested to know what your long-term plan for the OEM auxliary lights will be - wiring them into the cansmart sounds like a great idea. Thanks as ever for your clear and detailed explanations.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Simon. I’m not sure about the BMW ones if I’m honest. We’ll see how that maps out. You can be sure I’ll show it. On routing it’s tough to get camera angles to show them. The real trick is to see the gap. Route it, make sure it rocks back and forth (not snagged or trapped) not near anything hot or moving and ultimate able to be tied to existing BMW loom. 👍🏻

[@damienford3587]

Great job, Nick...

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thank Damien. Really pleased with it 👍🏻

[@bobtaylor5263]

great bike great video your very clever nick

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Bob. Glad you liked it 👍🏻

[@Bazza47]

Thanks for putting this together Nick. Where did you route the rear camera cable to get it under the seat please? An alternative for your front camera if your ideas don't work out is to use the metal L bracket that sits above the indicators. I've had my Roadhawk camera fixed to there for years across 3 GS' with no issues and that's a 140 degree lens, all I did was to add some more layers of double sided tape to the Roadhawk mounting bracket as the L bracket isn't flat and use a couple of black cable ties in a "x" format to hold it securely in place.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks for that Adrian. On the rear camera. There are two torx bolts under the rear mudguard that hold the rear light/ number plate assembly. When you remove them slide the assembly backwards as it’s on a lug by the rear light and two on the front edge. You’ll see the indicator wires go up where the front lug is (on the left) you can get the camera wire up there too with care. Just make sure you can rock it and indicator wires back and forth when you replace rear light assembly to ensure nothing’s trapped. It’s really quite simple. Innovv also supply some natty 3M ‘clips’. I use on of them under the grab bar to secure the cable. Let me know if you can’t work it out and I’ll send a picture

[@9121646]

Awesome work. I wish I lived close and I could buy the light kit and pay you in biscuits and hugs to fit it. 😂😂😂

[@nickhodgeUK]

Cheers Paul. Would take far more than biscuits and hugs 🤣🤣 👍🏻

[@carlton683]

Good job nick lovely bike 👍❤️

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Anthony. I like her 😂👍🏻

[@usmcshepherdE9]

Hey Nick….winter is setting in here in the Northern USA (specifically Iowa) and I am going to be doing some re-farkling myself while the weather is getting frigid. Looking to add some protection in hopes of attending Raw-Hyde adventure training and rides in Colorado next summer…anyway…was curious if you’d upgraded your skid plate yet and if so which one?

[@nickhodgeUK]

No not added anything since I think? Mines a bit of a fake GS that sticks to tarmac 👍🏻🤣

[@nolanketty2859]

Nice motorcycle, and good job on it. Do you think it would be possible to install the factory heated seat of the 2021 version on yours? ... an update of the software would be necessary too, though.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Nolan. In theory I guess it would although as a factory fitted option here in the uk at £300 it’s worth it I suspect there are better aftermarket heated seats at around £1,000 and I suspect to buy the BMW ones ‘extra’ would be more expensive???

[@nolanketty2859]

@@nickhodgeUK ok. Thanks for your opinion

[@jockneyranger]

Great job, well done sir

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thank you 👍🏻

[@adrianwatkins9629]

Awesome viewing Nick. brilliantly detailed stills and instructions... Could you link me up with the Navigator IX sunshade... cheers....

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Adrian and thanks. Sure it’s the Wunderlich one from Nippy Normans here www.nippynormans.com/f650gs-08-on/wunderlich-sun-shade-navigator-6 don’t be sucked into a screen protector for it the touch, I guess because of glove use is ultra sensitive and all hell breaks loose!! 👍🏻

[@adrianwatkins9629]

@@nickhodgeUK cheers Nick yes I did panic buy a Speedo Angles clear screen pack... I guess I should send it back.... I had a last minute change on the new bike .. I was going GS or GSA and went S1000XR TE M Sport... Loving the BMW experience... Absolutely fantastic channel your dedication to detail and presentation are just superb... stay safe...

[@nickhodgeUK]

Adrian Watkins thanks Adrian. That’s a great bike. I’ve gone off the HP on the GSs but it looked fabulous on that (even the current one I looked at yesterday) it’s a bit ‘revvy’ for me (only by mates hearsay who tried one), but certainly a really lovely bike. Enjoy 👍🏻

[@simoncarrier2411]

Hi Nick was just wondering if you ever moved that rear camera onto the pannier frame under the number plate? Any idea how you would have attached it onto the rail as that is my preference but I’m stuck on how I’m going to do it. Can’t seem to find the right attachment 🙄🤷🏻‍♂️🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻👍🏻

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Simon. I’ve not moved it yet but I have mounted my Denali rear lights on the pannier rack cross brace (below the number plate using these (in 16mm) www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Stainless-Steel-Rubber-Lined-P-Clips-Wiring-Hose-Clamp-Pipe-Cable-P-Clip-Metal-/131817562225?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49292

[@VARider1]

Was so excited when I saw your video pop up and ready to see how you fitted the factory OEM driving lights to the EZCAN unit, only to be disappointed that you were not doing so :-((

[@nickhodgeUK]

Ah sorry Tom. Maybe another day 👍🏻

[@neilcarrington5137]

Hi Nick . Just want a bit of advice here please . I’ve just moved from a 1200 to 1250 GSA . Didn’t realise it was coming factory fitted with a Datatool tracker . Dealer has told me that without the bike being used regularly , the tracker will cause the bike’s battery to go flat within 7/8 days . I’ve a garage but without power so Optimate is out . Would be interested on your thoughts on battery life as I’m assuming your bike will have a tracker as well. Enjoy all your videos . Keep up the good work. Kindest Regards, Neil.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Neil. He’s being a little too short on battery life there. Mines in a shed With no power too. I’d say it’s a few weeks without use that gives issue. Remember, the tracker has a battery which is charged from the bike battery. Here’s what to do. Login to the Datatool website (not app) and in there you can set up alerts. One of those is tracker and vehicle battery warning. They get the voltage from the tracker and it then emails you with warning. Last winter I maybe got it twice and just ran an extension out during the day to an optimate 4 which got battery back to full power in that time. With those alerts it’s fine (caveat: I had the Trakking Adventure on the old bike. This is now the stealth, (with the extra dongle), so don’t know if battery life longer or shorter?? Alerts still possible though). Riding occasionally too of course will help 👍🏻

[@neilcarrington5137]

@@nickhodgeUK Thank you most kindly Nick for your reply. Much appreciated. Just got my new GSA on the road today and enjoying it . Enjoy your informative videos. Kindest Regards Neil.

[@nickhodgeUK]

@@neilcarrington5137 thanks Neil. Don’t forget to set up alerts and enjoy new bike. 👍🏻

[@genuinecomments4008]

What a shame their is a brand new updated version coming out. Should have waited heart and head.

[@nickhodgeUK]

If you wait you’ll wait for ever. I’m VERY happy not having the new models. Not a black or HP fan and love my colourways. And of the other options that would come with the bike (e.g not an additional option) the only ones I’d like are the rear indicator rear and brake light functionality. I’ve used my headlight in earnest about 3 times as by dark I’m done on my 3 GSs so far although I’m sure the adaptive is great tech. It’s also £500 more expensive and there’s no extra £1,000 on trade-in so I’m very happy. No regrets 👍🏻

[@jassen77]

Great, detailed video, many thanks for posting it. I see some questions about the OEM aux lights, I was wondering if they can be connected to the EZ can, would you know if that's possible? Reason behind is that I would like to lower the beam intensity a bit at night. Thanks again for the great video!

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Jamo. I did mention I may do that but not sure I want to yet . I AM sure it’s possible and they will work it’s just I never cut the bikes wiring and never drill the bike. It would be two-wire dimming I guess and that should work??? Watch this space as it seems popular 😉👍🏻

[@jassen77]

@@nickhodgeUK Thanks Nick - will watch this space!

[@bulletcom]

Can't get the link to work for the headlight protector, Nick. I know eBay has a search feature but hard to tell what you'll get from some of these 3rd party eBayers, would be good to get the same one as you've shown in the vid...

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi David. I replaced the link but here it is www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BMW-R1250GS-GSA-LC-2019-Headlight-Guard-Personalised-Post-8-Worldwide/233136701304

[@bulletcom]

@@nickhodgeUK Top man - thank you. Keep up the good work!

[@AnilKumar-td8jz]

Very good information...Thank you

[@nickhodgeUK]

No trouble Anil 👍🏻

[@andybarley5798]

Great video, wish I had the patience.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Take the challenge Andy 😂👍🏻

[@soha_moto]

Hi, great video! Does it work also with the 1200GS LC (2015) ? Thanks and keep up the good work!

[@nickhodgeUK]

Indeed. Everything I’ve done (except the screen protector on the TFT) will work on the recent 1200’s. You may need a slightly different CanSmart controller. That’s all

[@philc7135]

Looks great. Love the bike colour scheme. 👍👍

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Phil. There’s a couple of features I’d love from the 2021 models but so pleased I have this one as I love the colours too 👍🏻

[@jamessuttie1261]

Hi Nick. Just starting on my installation. Is there a trick of some sort to route the battery cable connector from under the cross panel to the battery? I can get the cables part of the way through but not all of the way. It seems to to stick on the fuse box. I have taken the fuse out and tried to make the fuse box less of an impediment, to no avail. It might be an issue of the cold, as it is 3C right now. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

[@jamessuttie1261]

Nick, me again. Just awaiting my Denali Bundle from Steve. Curious about your comment about wiring the BMW stock aux lights to the Cansmart white wiring. What advantage would that give you?

[@nickhodgeUK]

Just further ability to run those lights as Aux 2 through the CanSmart. And have deities and dimming available but I’m not sure it would even work as not tried it

[@lucienvandenboogaard8116]

Nice work, Nick Question: How do you power on/off these extra items? Did you have to fit extra switches on the handle-bar, or can you use the existing standard BMW ones?

[@nickhodgeUK]

Lucien. My own rule is not adding anything like that. It all works as standard with the BMW switches. For example the Denali lights, by using the CanSmart means they are ‘feature’ rich using software settings and are switched off by holding in the indicator cancel button for 3 seconds. To adjust the intensity you hold left indicator for 3 seconds and roll the ‘wonder wheel’ up or down. The DIN socket has a standard BMW socket and the wiring for the DIN socket relocation kit a standard BMW plug. I also never drill anything on the bike

[@JockBiker]

Nice work. Might be worth looking at Teapotone’s figment of the innov, as he has a nice front set-up.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Yes I saw that. If you watch it to the end he mentions my fitting video for placement of the GPS. It’s not urgent but I must get it done for sure. Ride safe 👍🏻

[@garryoakley7148]

Hi Nick , have just found your great channel and subscribed, thanks. Could you please tell me the type of TFT screen protector you have and your opinion of it.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Garry. It’s the speedo angels nano glass one (clear). They came much cheaper as a pack of two on Amazon. You don’t need two if you apply carefully but it’s a safeguard (I used as I didn’t push enough with card as I applied it and couldn’t remove a bubble. About £11 I think. Whether you’d ever damage it who knows but it’s nice to know you can clean it and the original surface is safe below. Lasted the full 2 years on my old bike

[@jamessuttie1261]

Nick, great video. Well done. Thanks much. I have been thinking of installing the Denali lights, horn etc. I had installed it on a previous GS and found taking off the tank very frustrating. How much time did you spend on doing this install? Don’t include the time for the camera. Lastly, how was your trip into northern England? I do hope to get to the UK next summer, if we are past COVID, and would love to buy you a pint or two.

[@nickhodgeUK]

James. Always open for a pint or two 😂 I reckon now I’ve done this a few times it’d take a couple of hours to remove panels, route cables, fit brackets and re-assemble. I tend to take longer as I’m trying to find fault all the time. Could this be better? Could/should I add a cable tie here or there. Northern England was OK. The East coast boring to Northumberland. The York Moors and Peak good. The Lake District passes great and mid Wales awesome. Hope to have a tour video shortly (weeks) Ride safe 👍🏻

[@jamessuttie1261]

Nick Hodge Thanks Nick. So it would be about three hours or so for me, I guess? I was on a golf trip to Wales about 5 years ago and loved it, other than the road signs in Gaelic. Also enjoyed York and Lake District. Appreciate your help. Cross fingers we can meet next year, Covid Free.

[@estevamwerneck7209]

Fantastic (Ji-Paraná - Rondônia - Brasil).

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Estervam 👍🏻

[@bradb2514]

I have the same Denali light set up as you (installed a year ago) and it works great 90% of the time however a glitch I notice is that on occasion after starting the bike the lights do not come on automatically with the ignition and I have to depress the indicator switch to turn on. Otherwise everything works as normal. Ever notice this? Any thoughts?

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Brad. I never noticed this with the Gen 1 CanSmart but I switch these off far more now as I’m playing a lot with stuff and don’t want to run the battery flat. So I’ve had my mate say “your lights are off” but don’t know if that’s me or the software. Watch this space. Ride safe 👍🏻

[@robertlarsen6851]

Great Video as always. You mentioned the GSA comes with an aluminium tank. When I am using the BMW configurator, the aluminium tank (only grey in color) is an option. Did you order the option or was that standard with the Exclusive model?

[@nickhodgeUK]

Robert. It maybe steel (certainly not plastic) but the welds look aluminium? I’m not sure to be honest and wonder if the option you speak of is ‘aluminium weave’ which is a plain brush aluminium finish which is then lacquered. Maybe ask dealer and be good to know for sure 👍🏻

[@nickhodgeUK]

Robert. I think I can confirm it’s aluminium. I just found a magnet on a torch I have and that (just) holds on the steel bar end bolts but does not hold (or even feel like it does) to the side of the tank. I wouldn’t expect the lacquer to do that so I think that option is the benefit of it being flat (not embossed) and uniquely (hand) sanded??? Hope that helps

[@robertlarsen6851]

@@nickhodgeUK Thank You! :-D

[@christianluttecke3665]

Hi! Awsome Bike and good video, about the cameras how those work? Do you have any ecm to save the record and connect wirely o bluetooth ? Thanks! And congrats

[@nickhodgeUK]

Christian. The DVR unit is under the seat. (The black box). That has a 256mb micro SD card that records about 9 hours from front and rear cameras so 18 hours in all. It records it in 1 min clips (by default) together with speed and location info from the GPS. You can extract footage wirelessly but it’s painfully slow (1 min clip about 1 min download and the bike has to be on) so I normally remove the card if I need a lot. If it’s just one or two you need and you note the time the files are named by date/time and F for front, R for rear. It’s very reliable and on all the time the bike is 👍🏻

[@tango165]

Great video!!

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks a lot 👍🏻

[@kevinjones7732]

Question? I would have thought the camera will get covered very quickly in road crap on the lens and make any recordings useless. Have you found this to be the case?

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Kevin. The front one is never too bad as rain hits it and to a degree runs off although like screen and visor it will build over time. My bike is always immaculate at home but when I'm away, as recently, I wipe my lamps and cameras every morning. The rear camera builds up more 'dirt' from spray same process get in habit of wiping, BUT if you look at any camera stuff on lens is out of focus anyhow so tends to not impact as much as you think. In short, with care and routine wipes (fuel stops and in mornings) not an issue

[@edfranklin1097]

Hi Nick, on your last GS you fitted Handle bar raisers, will you be fitting these again on this bike?? do they make much of a difference?? I’m thinking of purchasing some for my new GS.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Ed, those were on my friends GS exclusive not mine. He still has them, they function fine and he loves them. I will have to do something as the Adventure now seems a bit more of a reach (which is weird). I may buy the accessory ones advertised for the 2021 GSs although they're much more expensive of course ;)

[@edfranklin1097]

Nick Hodge thanks for that, which one’s are you talking about?? HeliBars £130. Or Wunderlich £117.

[@nickhodgeUK]

@@edfranklin1097 The ones on his bike were off eBay. 40mm up and back, the link was in the eBay video. I think I may only need the 25mm as the 40mm did mean re-positioning some cable ties to give enough slack in cables/hoses

[@christrisnan6209]

What is inov when you talk about cameras Nick?

[@nickhodgeUK]

Hi Chris. It’s Innovv. They make (in my opinion) the best motorcycle safety cameras. I use the K2 front and rear units. They have a .co.uk site or a .com if you’re elsewhere 👍🏻

[@wobblybrother4552]

New sub here..Stunning looking bike !!l

[@nickhodgeUK]

Great to have you along 👍🏻

[@alangoran7036]

Nick can I please send you my bike and get all the gadget on? You doing the job very profesionaly and very easy.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Post away Alan 😂😂👍🏻 ride safe

[@morriskassau1431]

Great video. How much in dollars is this machine selling at?

[@nickhodgeUK]

About $26,000 I guess????

[@morriskassau1431]

That's 2.6million Kenyan currency. I love it. I would like to have one. How can I import sir?

[@nickhodgeUK]

@@morriskassau1431 I’m sure there’s a BMW operation in Kenya 👍🏻

[@morriskassau1431]

@@nickhodgeUK yes sir, for cars. I don't know about bikes sir.

[@willettpaul1414]

Where did you put the GPS on the bike

[@nickhodgeUK]

For the innovv you mean? In the small void behind the left plastic side panel. Stuck to inside of panel. I have a video fitting it to my GS which shows it 👍🏻

[@glenntoulouse5710]

How does fitting all these accessories effect your warranty on a new bike? Are they bmw motorrad approved?

[@nickhodgeUK]

I’ve never had an issue Glenn. I use quality brands and never drilled anything or cut into the BMW wiring so in effect if a dealer created I’d just unplug it all and the bike’s standard. It’s not like re-mapping or such. More akin to a tow bar or roof box for example.

[@thedarrendasher8134]

What's the point of these lights? You have BMW aux lights already and a rather excellent headlight so I just don't get it. They seem that bright they're bordering on antisocial. Don't get me wrong it's each to their own but this is lost on me.

[@nickhodgeUK]

I have many reasons but here’s a few. So long as you’re not blinding people, these are carefully positioned and running through software settings at 50% while daylight running lights are on, 100% when dark and headlight on. They improve presence of motorcyclist (you can get extreme with even more I grant) and any opportunity to lessen the possibility of “sorry I didn’t see you” is a benefit in my eyes. The features on the CanSmart (EzyCan) software have proven themselves over and over. E.g. ‘Strobe on flash to pass’, when motorway riding vehicles are joining on down ramps, changing lanes and with trucks in many cases using guesswork. I flash 3 times, the lights start to strobe, they know I’ve seen them and am giving way. In two years acknowledged literally 100’s of times. ‘Alternate on hazard lights’ when filtering (only in VERY slow or stationary traffic) make you very visible even with a casual glance in a car mirror and often results in more space. Opinion I guess but these lights do so much more than just and decoration and I’d say absolutely no anti-social issue. Not once (genuinely) has an oncoming vehicle flashed their high beam to show annoyance at them. Just my experience I guess? Ride safe 👍🏻

[@thedarrendasher8134]

@@nickhodgeUK Thanks for the reply, my Mate got some cheap Chinese items off Fleabay which do the same job (being seen) and cost £25. I felt rather foolish after spending £350 at BMW for the aux lights on my 1250 GS Exclusive......

[@nickhodgeUK]

@@thedarrendasher8134 Darren. Your original point was regarding anti-social. I will now move to price as this is the current question. Your friends lights may have longevity???? I don’t know as they are not proven, they may be E4 compliant?? They may not?? They may have other features as outlined in my earlier replay, they may not??? Mine have all these and are proven in quality and I’m happy to pay the cost as I was the premium price for the BMW. As you say, each to their own 👍🏻

[@thenewguyj.f.e.2420]

Great video. Permission to come aboard! Juan from Los Angeles CA,

[@nickhodgeUK]

Permission granted Juan 🤣👍🏻

[@theboomerangbiker1966]

@nickhodge G'Day Nick, another great detailed video, thanks for posting. Nick S

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks Nick and keep making content it’s surprising how many benefit from just thought dumps and waffle on here 👍🏻

[@theboomerangbiker1966]

@@nickhodgeUK no worries mate, one thing though... what the farkle is re-farkling? 😁👌

[@nickhodgeUK]

The Boomerang Biker farkle knows? 🤷‍♂️

[@rdauto-moto]

Is the usb socket on selling? Pls revert I can’t find it in the site

[@nickhodgeUK]

Currently out of stick but sure it’ll be in again soon www.nippynormans.com/f800-adventure/nippy-normans-dual-usb-socket-for-bmw-motorcycles-plug-and-play

[@drewbale]

When I get my set up I will be calling you for help free breakfast on offer

[@nickhodgeUK]

😂😂 I seem to have been offered pints, hugs, biscuits and now breakfast. I guess there’s no real money left in the coffers after Covid support so we’ve returned to barter 👍🏻

[@drewbale]

Nick Hodge I will also throw in a Tesco meal deal 😂😂but seriously an offer of money would also be available

[@dgomes265]

Meticulous as usual. You deserve many more subscriptions.

[@nickhodgeUK]

Thanks. What do they say? “If you build it they will come” 😂👍🏻

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

Get some proper lights from Baja Designs, Denali are the Harley Davidson of lights: all marketing and no substance 🤣

[@nickhodgeUK]

...and it was all going so well 😂😂. I’m very happy with the Denalis for quality, simplicity and features, but I’ll take a look at the Bajas for sure 👍🏻