2020 BMW R 1250 GS Review | Daily Rider

[@RevZilla]

Read Spurgeon' review of the R 1250 GS here: rvz.la/3vbHCYi

[@josecarlosavendano5431]

Dude you´re overstepping every stop line at every Stop Light you meet!!! Lucky there are no cops around. Anyway nice bike but very bad driving from you sir

[@BenJamin-ou7kd]

@@josecarlosavendano5431 are you in CALIFORNIA?

[@huntersmith1434]

Are you going to do a daily rider on the new fireblade cbr1000r

[@chrisspear4138]

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[@emoservedwithfries]

The reason everyone hates on the 1250gs is because of "long way 'round." That tv show sold the bike as dirt focused. It's not, it could never be with a drive shaft instead of a chain. You can't repair it unless you have a fleet with you. The 1250gs is a sweet bike for people who don't like cruisers or sport tourer, just not what is associated with an off-road focused adv.

[@alexkorovesis116]

Zack always finds new ways to impress me. What a rider. Him and Ari are the best journalists in motorcycling right now. Definitely my motorcycling heroes.

[@ssmith954]

Agree they are great -- but honestly so far I haven't been bowled over by the content they have been doing with Revzilla. It seems too much like a re-do of their older work but under a new badge, and comes across as a bit formulaic and unenthusiastic at times. As for the best, I just love Ryan F9's work -- writing, content and production is on a whole other level.

[@p.chakraborty4453]

Currently, it's Ryan F9 and zack and eri. Zack and eri were always legends, they always will be.

[@TeslasSecret]

Seth Richards from Motorcyclist/Cycling world writes beautifully. Haven't seen anything on video from him however.

[@p.chakraborty4453]

@@TeslasSecret hmm ,there are many people who do great motorcycle reviews, but might not have the chance to tape it, they prefer blog writing, like i do.

[@TeslasSecret]

@@p.chakraborty4453 Indeed ! Besides, written reviews have a very distinct charm to them. Still, when Motorcyclcist went away I didn't really get on with cycle world for some reason and ended my subscription. That Seth Richards is great however, though his reviews are of a more literary, perhaps ultimately less informative kind.

[@BigRockMoto]

Some say the GS gets too much credit. I say it doesn't get enough. I'm on my fourth one. A 2021 GSA. I agree with Zack about getting a GSA over a GS.

[@roadglide]

100%. I have to agree with this comment.

[@alvarosolis7837]

I love your channel!

[@JoseSanchez-ht4cc]

I’m on my 7th Had sports, tourers, street and cruiser bikes. Ridden for over 40 years continuously. Raced for several years and have a 2019 Hypermotard 950 also. But, these are the best bikes in the world. Not even the 1290 adventure s beats it - the beemer is more poised & composed. I get 300 miles from my 2020 GSA tank. The weight disappears once you’re rolling.

[@tolga1cool]

The rally variant is where it's at for me. You get the "lightness" (lol) of the regular GS with the much nicer and longer suspension of the GSA

[@Jay-yg8jj]

I guess it's a great bike if you have 25k laying around to drop on something you can safely ride only 6 months out of the year.

[@davidthompson1129]

Good to see he's not using signals like a true bmw owner

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

If you are ever feeling useless at your job remember there are people who install turn signal systems at BMW lol

[@jnault6441]

@@ron_grimes yeah.....they do include auto off

[@jackwiedemann]

@@ron_grimesWho even needs that feature? I learned how to turn of the turn signals on my first year of riding. I just press the button repeatingly when i feel like they're on 😄

[@jackwiedemann]

@@ron_grimes yeah the repeated pressing is just a tick that many riders have. At least many i talked too. It cancels after 300m cause in Germany it's common practice to start the turn signal when 200-300m before the exit on the Autobahn. But I'm pretty shure it's also dependant on the lean angle and general direction, maybe your system is just not working right?

[@illiyakuryakin3092]

I hope you review the R1300GS SOON after it hits the showroom floors.

[@RG-hn6dg]

I have a lot of experience with the 1250 GS from playing PUBG. The jumps this thing can do are insane. The suspension can handle 100 foot vertical drops without any damage to you or the bike. If you can keep from falling off the bike, then just about anything is survivable. This video just scratches the surface of what this bike can do. It can also take a lot of hits from an AK47 before it blows up. Handling is compromised a little if a tire gets shot out.

[@gregorysteffensen3279]

The PUBG totally-not-a-BMW-1150GS-for-legal-reasons is really fun but LORD is it icy as heck to control sometimes

[@papatorr3669]

I'd like to see that 100 foot drop! And it wouldn't survive one magazine in an AK-47 if I were aiming and pulling the trigger!

[@RG-hn6dg]

@@papatorr3669 PUBG is free to play now, so just download it and go for a ride on the GS. Then come back here and admit that I'm 100% correct about what this bike can do. PUBG is ultra realistic, so I'm sure the developers are showing what the GS is truly capable of.

[@michaelbrown9363]

What I like about the BMW Boxer platform is I can have at least 50% of the 1250 GS’s goodness for 1/5 of the price with my 16 year old 1200RT. My 1100 RT was 1/10 of the price. Also a great riding bike. Basically, there’s something at every price point, they ride amazingly well and run forever.

[@smokey8400]

They are comparing everything so when the GS is $22,000 of course it will beat a $10,000 Yamaha or Kawasaki.

[@Angry-Lynx]

As someone who never buys something newer than 15years old i disagree. If you buying with cash, not 10years credit, there is nothing bmw can offer. Tbh i never ever even considered anything from bmw. Not because i hate them or anything, just they don't have any good bikes that "old'. For me bmws were and still are - credit/lease buys only

[@hotdog9262]

@@Angry-Lynx these bikes are different from their cars. they are very reliable and durable

[@Angry-Lynx]

@@hotdog9262they are more reliable than cars, yes but that says almost nothing, bikes are more reliable than cars by design, they much simpler. and yes while bmw gs etc arent very unreliable, they ownership cost is significantly higher than anything from Japan, i considered between AT or GS and financially its not even a comparison, maintenantce alone on 10yo gs would kill me. On AT its just basic stuff oils, filters, suspension oil, and i can do most myself.

[@hotdog9262]

@@Angry-Lynx not really due to design. many parts on the cars are designed to fail after warranty. id would be interesting to know if you talked from experience

[@rickdelmonte1682]

I have an identical bike. I watched your review after getting home from a 90 minute ride: freeways, heavy traffic, high speeds, with rain and drizzle. I don't know any other bike that would make me feel as confident and comfortable in those conditions. I was one of the cynics until I made the mistake of test riding one. Now I keep looking for excuses to go on long rides. Nice review.

[@StevenVanLoven]

I have my GS for 1 year now (and it's my first bike of this kind). I recognise myself in a part you just sayed . "I keep looking for excuses to just go " on this bike ... It is amazing , every time again . I never understood the reflection on 'FortNine' over this bike and al the hate comments on it ... Just make the same mistake I did , and just testride it ... and find out for yourself.

[@themadisreal3902]

@@StevenVanLoven Where do you ride the most? On or off-road? It’s a great bike until you have to pick it up 3 times in the middle of the desert by yourself, with all the added weight of your luggage and crash bars, some people do it with a smile on their face but I personally prefer lighter bikes for off-roading. And the “hate” comments come from the fact that 1250s are mostly used as status symbols to go to Starbucks, but people can do whatever they want with their money and motorcycles.

[@StevenVanLoven]

@@themadisreal3902 I use it most of the time on-road. I try to get a bit off-road skills . I 'm surprised by it's handling and easiness to do it all. I use every bike in the limits of my skills and hope to improve these step by step, and I admire other peoples driving skills . It is a heavy bike and a technical complex machine , but a lighter bike with a high center off gravity feels heavy to when you have to lift it to . For the real off-road thing a light bike is a must . I'm 56 now and have more bikes in my garage . And that status symbol thing happen to a lot of things these days... I let people make there own choices and try to learn from what I see for myself . My only problem I still have with the GS is a comfort problem at my seat (already a corbin) and the angle of my knees, but it can bee related to my age . However , this motor challenge me to practice tighter manoeuvres and corners. So I'm happy with this package just like it is . Thanks for your response.

[@TheTripleDubya]

Same here, wasn’t really a fan but a friend of mine convinced me to go for a demo ride with him. It was so very good and I was hooked immediately, weirdly enough I was annoyed that I liked it so much, maybe because I feared that I would and had steered clear of them for so long. Suffice to say I bought one the very next week and haven’t looked back.

[@scha0306]

So glad to hear Zack point out the overdrive issue. I have a '15 1200GSA, and it's high-revving at 90mph, which seems insane. I also have a KTM 1290 Super Duke GT (w stock gearing), and they got it right... you don't even shift into 6th until like 80mph, that 6th gear is TALL. I love it, and sure wish BMW had done the same, especially since there's nothing you can (easily) do to change it.

[@derp195]

Seriously. There’s no excuse to have that much power and rev high at freeway speeds. I don’t understand why all powerful bikes don’t come with a super tall 6th gear. Even if the rest of them are short and close together, just give me a tall 6th.

[@DoorKnob890]

The KTM had to do that cause the KTM is vibby at anything above 4250rpm.

[@horrykt]

this video made me understand that all the bad things attributed to the gs are actually about the owners. cause seeing it in Zach's hands looks like it can really do everything

[@Brokenlimbsranch]

rrc

[@YSPDJapan]

Yes. Here's the thing: I ride a Super Tenere, Yama'as 1200cc ADV bike. I ride it 80% off road. One thing I hate? The weight. it's heavy (obviously) at around 600 lbs after the crash bars and tools. However, it's fast and it just plows through everything. You can easily get these things up to 60 mph off road and it just hauls out there. Power for ages. When you're on the road it's almost like a Goldwing. You just sit back and cruise. Handling is awesome, fuel efficiency is awesome, and standing up is more comfortable than sitting down. You can drift corners, go 100 mph, anything you want and there's no cops, nobody around cause it's the middle of the woods and you're on a dirt road with no speed limit. ADV bikes are amazing and the only people who hate on them a) have never ridden them, and b) don't have the skills to ride off road regardless. You can easily see how much fun Zach has on the off road section. Dude hit 70 mph like it was nothing. NOTHING. Huge air on the jump too. Laughing the entire time. People don't get that and hate on random things, or pick on people who don't ride their bike that way. ADV bikes are the best, and this is coming from a guy who also has a GSXS750 who tracks that.

[@Porsche996driver]

Whoever says “bad things” about the Gelände Straße doesn’t know bikes.

[@kee7678]

@@YSPDJapan Agreed, well said.

[@xtremebroccoli]

Nothing but respect for the gsa. A dream bike for me for sure. Have also yet to talk to an owner....

[@bsmukler]

I was feeling trepidatious at the outset of this video because there is so much to this bike: its storied history; its evolution; the seeming complexity of its dash and systems; that I didn't know how on earth you could sum it up in a relatively brief Daily Rider review. Well, you did it! As someone who has owned multiple iterations of the GS and GS-A as well as of the Multistrada, I think you did a great job of hitting the highlights of the riding experience of the GS (especially the comfort over distance and the unexpectedly good cornering and general handling capabilities). I haven't owed the KTM equivalents and so cannot speak to them, but I think it is fair to say that the Ducati Multistrada vs the BMW GS comparison has now come down to brand loyalty or emotional response (which bike speaks to you, or which one you feel most at home on). They are different for sure, but genuinely solid, sophisticated, highly evolved machines, easily capable of globe trotting as well as having way too much fun on your favorite regional twisty roads. It is also noteworthy that both makers have done great work in preserving character and performance while complying with the increasingly stringent Euro standards. I think we should appreciate the richness of choices we have during what may be the last phase of ICE powered two wheelers. (I grew up happily making engine and shifting noises while daydreaming about sports cars and motorcycles and feel sorry for future generations who will be limited to making humming/whooshing sounds.... They will doubtless have much better hearing in their later years, but with not a lot to listen to!)

[@sarasmitz6004]

Seeing that speedo spin up to 70MPH in the dirt section had me worried... and then Zack and that porky GS pull an effortless wheelie. Pretty damn impressive for both Zack and the GS.

[@YSPDJapan]

High speed on big ADV bikes is easy. Because they're so heavy they just mow down small things that are in your way. I've run over bushes and small trees with my Super Tenere and if you give it throttle it just keeps moving. Because they have so much power you can easily get into 70 mph in 4th gear and feel like you have room. I've gotten up to 100 mph on a soft dirt road and that's when the bike starts swaying... other than that they just keep wanting to go faster.

[@harrisonjacobsen173]

i got a GS a couple years ago and this made me fall back in love with it all over again

[@redo1dr]

kinda neat how you can see the rev limit (the red area in the rev counter) getting higher the warmer the engine gets, this bike really thinks for you, cause we germans trust nobody xd

[@klakier19901]

M series cars had it for some 20 years.

[@chrisgraham6031]

@@klakier19901 It’s been on the bikes for a while too, the early waterboxers with the LCD rev counter and analogue speedo do the same thing

[@darylclifford]

It’s programmed to change according to temperature, and uses existing sensors! But yeah it’s good for dummies (people with more money than sense lol) !!

[@jnault6441]

@@darylclifford you can argue this about any feature......jesus....I love that everyone perpetuates the cliché about BMW owners being snobs but read this comment section and the true snobs are people butt hurt AH's who shit on the owners.....Anakin...you've become what you hate the most.

[@darylclifford]

@@jnault6441 I'm inclined to respond in a reasonable, sensible and logical discussion over my comment, except you seem to be the "butt hurt" one who took personal offence so I won't engage in a slinging match with you !! Have a good life..👍🍺

[@iwasadeum]

Bought mine three weeks ago, and I'm absolutely in love. Extremely comfortable (on and off road), still pretty quick, and loaded with more bells and whistles than I thought possible on a motorcycle. It carries its weight very gracefully, IMO. Feels really sporty on the road, and feels very composed on the dirt.

[@PistolPeteSTL]

I've got a 2013 GS-A and it's the best bike I've ever owned out of over a dozen. It's my keeper. Glad to see the new ones are just as good!

[@davidhardstaff8110]

Your footless stops usually rely on the rebound stroke creating resistance against the tyre. No dive, no rebound, no help.

[@Camposr1000]

I don't think so. Seems to me the help he misses would be the crankshaft turning transversely insted of longitudinally. Big masses, big help. In this case, lack of help.

[@dwaynedwayne1964]

@@Camposr1000 I bet its the Hayes brakes. I find it hard to do as well. I'm hoping when I get the brembos it will feel normal again. The Hayes seem to brake well, but a little grabby which pulls the wheel a little at stopping speeds. That's what it feels like to me anyway.

[@TheTripleDubya]

It may be many things but now that I’m used to mine, I find that I am able to do feet up stops no problem.

[@Camposr1000]

@@dwaynedwayne1964 i still bet on the angular momentum NOT helping in the case of the longitudinal crankshaft.

[@dwaynedwayne1964]

@@Camposr1000 I just got new tires and I think that was the problem. Much easier now to come to a stop without wiggling all over the place. Went from the Anakee Adventure to pilot trail 5's. Not sure if it were the type of tire or just cause it was worn.

[@correykeen2956]

My '21 GSA is my daily commuter. It's a fantastic motorcycle.

[@jude.25]

I ride a 1200. The only bike I'd trade for would be a 1250 but can't justify the difference in the cost. My recommendation is that if you want to jump on the GS wagon (or bike) but need to work within a somewhat lesser budget, buy a 1200GS.

[@jf7393]

So you've covered the GS.. you better do the new 1290 SAR when it comes out!

[@LivinLifeLoud]

I just bought this bike, same color too! At 5’8 I got the low suspension model. This bike is amazing. Well balanced and I do not feel the weight. Great review!

[@emak4558]

Yeah, I just got this one also, low suspension as well and I am 6’3”. What nobody seems to mention - that lowered suspension is much better handling.

[@louly3212]

You don't feel the weight, must be super powerful yourself or in the brain.

[@hurt1704]

I’m 5ft 10. I didn’t think the regular model seemed that high?

[@jrloPanigale]

"Zat is what I will give you!" 🤣 Zack is the best bike reviewer! Informative with a good dose of humor!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@duanestiles4821]

BMW has been around a lot longer than most other brands and I’m 64 years old and they have aways have been the benchmark for leading the industry for years and years to come and love your vids thanks zack

[@StormBringerVids]

4:04 "No GPS, I think I know where I am going." And he was never seen or heard from again...

[@FragEightyfive]

"you could 2, maybe 3 versys 650s" That was hilarious. I went with a Versys 650 as my first street bike 5 years ago and I look at other bikes like, "Oh... that's like 2.5 Kawasakis."

[@boomcity4942]

Thank you Zack! I was able to watch you reviews every bike that I considered. I am 64 years old and have had 9 bikes. Currently still have three bikes and am picking up my new BMW 1250 Adventure in two days. Maybe my last bike - maybe not, but being close to my last I spent a lot of time making my decision. Your reviews were of great value to me and although I will not be in the market for a new bike in a while I will still be watching your reviews. Best Regards, Boomer.

[@carloalbertoranzani8041]

I started riding 2 years ago and I mean daily, sun, rain, hot, cold, from zero to something short of like 15k km/y. I started with an electric 125, then an 850gsa, and now it’s a few days that I’m enjoying the 1250 in its full optional trophy version. The 1300 is coming this fall, so I managed to get a “good” price for a bike that’s close to 30k as listed price. Because of old surgeries I’m very, and I mean VERY sensible about bumps and vibrations, so much that I need a custom seat even on this bike, but it’s hand down the most comfortable motorcycle I ever tried (and I tried a good amount). I find it even way easier in low speed maneuvers than the 850gsa, and low speed maneuvers are the most difficult things on an heavy bike. Also, the slimmer tank of the “standard” gs is more comfortable to “hug” with your legs. I’m in love with the engine, I’m SO in love with the shaft drive and not having to clean and grease the chain every few miles, it’s so stable even with strong crosswinds, braking with the telelever is so comfortable especially when having a passenger (the 850 dived a lot and that upsets the bike), the touring windshield gives little to no buffering (unbelievable), the suspensions filter imperfections amazingly, traction control and cornering abs make me feel safer, only the quick shifter I find kinda superfluous, it is good but I was clutch less shifting anyway so it’s not that useful. Off road, except some white roads I’m completely avoiding it, I tried something more difficult with the 850 and it felt too hard even with the 21’ front wheel, I would learn on an enduro 250 if I could (but my surgeries don’t like that slim saddle). The only thing I don’t like about it is the price :) motorcycles are becoming luxury items, but I didn’t find anything else that was compatible with my glass butt issues. I just hope it doesn’t get stolen ffs I’m gonna sleep next to it

[@rockyk3973]

Hey Zack, fun review as always. I test rode and bought a new, fully loaded R1250 GS Adventure Low (as in Low Suspension) back in 2019 at the suggestion of a buddy that has ridden the big GS for years. When test riding a GS/A was first suggested to me I derisively laughed it off. I am short, 5’5” tall with a 30” inseam. That said, one test ride was all it took for me to buy the bike (and I was by no means a BMW fan-boy, almost the opposite). The handling is incredible for a bike it’s size and, very manageable at parking lot speeds. For shorter riders looking for a full size ADV bike that they can fit on, the low suspension GS or GSA (in 2019) seemed to be about the only game in town i.e. a full size ADV bike that could pass the laugh test for accessible seat height. (The HD Pan America Special seems to have changed that this year and I plan to test ride one to compare.) After two years of back road sporty riding on my GSA and, having owned dozens of bikes of all brands and sizes over many years, I have to say that the hype about the GS/A from those that love it, is (mostly) justified. That is, if one can get past the sticker shock of the purchase price and the cost of dealer maintenance. One additional thing to note about the GS Adventure vs. the GS is that the GSA’s have the “Sport” front suspension geometry versus the standard GS without the “Sport”suspension option. Having owned dozens of bikes, my GSA has lived up to it’s name as a comfortable and highly capable do-it-all bike. The closest my GSA has come or ever will come to off road has been a fire road or two but, like many GS owners I never had any pretensions about taking it off road. What I wanted was a sporty touring rig that handles well on both good roads and bad, has good wind protection, stops well and has the creature comforts I never had before on any other bike. My R1250 GSA has lived up to all my expectations and then some. For anyone considering the GS or GSA, just be prepared for sticker shock at the cost of purchase and, for pricey parts/service. The BMW “brand” does unfortunately, carry a price tag. It will be great to see how the HD Pan America Special compares to my bike once I can get my hands on one to test ride.

[@GJS-live]

Great post. I have the 2018 R1200GS Rallye (with TFT). tempted to change to the 1250 when the warranty runs out in November. I had an R1250R as a loan bike and loved the engine (and the bike actually) Cheers.

[@rockyk3973]

@@GJS-live I also test rode the R1250R in late 2020. I loved the 1250 engine on my GSA and could not resist trying it out on a roadster. Big mistake on my part...my test ride was 2 hours at speed in the twisties which clearly demonstrated the fun factor of the 1250R engine and chassis combination...I rode the bike back to the dealer and bought it. 😉

[@coffeelixirruby]

No one cares what you think

[@xcaliber7779]

I was one of the haters of this bike once. But holy smokes a whole day test ride from my dealer changed it all. The bike handles so well. Smiles for miles!

[@Vegesaurus7]

Love your work Zack. Very fair and honest. And if you want to put the GS on the top you go for it. If others gonna hate let them make their own leaderboard.

[@GM-ut6kp]

I owned a 2013 Multistrada for 5 years and subsequently 2018 GS 1200 and currently 2021 1250 GSA. Some comments related to long term ownership and differences: 1. I loved my Multi, but refused to own outside of the extended warranty, which I got full value and some. 2. My local dealer sells and services both Ducati’s and BMWs. The bikes in for repairs are disproportionately Ducatis. 3. On a two week 6000 mile tour on the Ducati (I had 5000 miles on odometer at time), with very minor off road trails as part of trip, a fork seal failed, the heated grips failed, the top case lid would open if not fully locked, the fuel gauge sensor failed (ugain, I replaced 3 or 4 times before selling bike). Others on the trip with BMWs, zero issues. 4. The 2013 Multi’s engine was a winner, and I certainly missed it when switching to the 2018 GS1200, particularly noticeable when fully loaded two up touring and the roll on power the Multi had compared to lack of grunt in the GS. 5. Both GS’ handle amazing well and with a touch of the handle bars are on rails around curves/corners. The Multi you have to hang off the side a little to get the same results. 6. When I recently purchased the 2021 GSA, I was comparing to the new Multi and asked the dealer his thoughts. He looked at me (your kidding right?). I bought the GSA and a few weeks later Ducati had the recall on the Multi’s engine. It is my understanding his customers have had a bunch of issues either the Panigale V4 engine. 7. I love the design and Italian flair associated with Ducati and loved my time on the 2013 Multi. But the fact that the 2021 fix for the 2013 fuel gauge sensor is the same faulty unit today speaks volumes. Sure you can leave it alone and not bother swapping it out, as long as you don’t mind your LCD display being permanently occupied by the error message and yellow light flashing. Just what you want from a premium brand. 8. IMO the new 1250 motor is a significant improvement in power, again particularly noticeable when fully loaded two up touring, the roll on power that is missing in the 1200gs is there and more comparable to the 2013 1200 Multi. 9. IMO Ducati will earn the right to be top of Zac’s leader board when they improve their long term reliability and match BMW’s, and I will also be happy to return as a customer.

[@CubanRider]

I love this bike, I think it's brilliant. It can wheelie effortlessly too. Hoping to add one to the stables in the future.

[@BRACHYDUDE]

How about our S1000XR compared to GS?

[@fiestahimself9135]

@@BRACHYDUDE thats a whole different story , the xr is crazy , it just has the engine of a superbike lmao

[@andrewedmond7738]

GS haters are the ones that have never ridden this brilliant machine, let alone be able to afford one. The GS has the title as the worlds best selling ADV bike for a reason. As stated by a fellow commentator, technique and skill levels determine how good you are off road. On road this bike is an absolute dream to ride especialy for long days in the saddle. I am a fan of this bike thats for sure. Great review Zack, thanks brother.

[@infinion3]

i was excited to see you do the GS. Zach, i met you at Laguna, I told you I got the Tracer after your review. Well i sold that for this exact GS. I am 5'6. People have to ride a GS to understand its pedigree. Telelever, paralever, boxer engine are the 3 main things that atribute to the bikes impreccable handling. Any bike can follow the recipe of power, wire wheels, etc, but it will never ride like a gs without the mechanical design that GS has. ive done lots of moderate offroad, GS is superb within reason. if u want serious offroad, go get a dirtbike. I will only replace the GS with the same or improved GS. Supreme onroad, track able bike, and it does offroad well. amen.

[@michaelelson668]

If you haven’t ridden one, you need to. Just a wonderful bike, comfortable and highly capable. Thanks Zach

[@Ole.Schultz]

I recently bought a 2020 GS 1250 fully loaded, best bike among the nearly 20 bikes i owned :-)

[@jayrajb]

at 21:56 the review of the bike changes… this is the moment that puts the bike on the leaderboard for him. Refined on road but so much more fun off road

[@TheColnago]

Great review. I bought a GS a couple of years ago after owning many other bikes and everything that Zack is saying is true. The bike is that good. It’s the ultimate one bike that does it all pretty well. Traveling on it is magical though. It makes miles disappear like now other bike I have ever owned. The people that hate it have most likely never ridden one.

[@lexburen5932]

troll factory to try to give BMW a bad name. They dont like that BMW makes such good versatile bikes. jalousie is venemous.

[@marcducati]

Have one, love it, drive it every day, best bike I’ve ever had. The cylinders sticking out means no heat on your legs in summer,, and good protection in winter

[@BaconOwnedYou]

I am glad we finally get a mention of cost and value at the leaderboard segment, I think that needs a much bigger component! The Versys 650 LT has got the be like the best appliance definition daily rider on the market!

[@alfasteve12]

I rented a '20 R1250GS for my Cannonball Tour ride of northern Italy this past Sept 2021. I own a '12 Multistrada back home in LA. I wanted to try someone else's pudding. I was not disappointed! Cannonballing with other crazy Finns and Norwegians on their Superdukes and such, this bike held with them just fine. I think I really noticed that shift-cam technology on the 100's of tight 1st/2nd gear switchbacks we raced through. It has all the bottom end in the world, perfect when going up against those screaming liter bikes out of the hole. I had no idea it weighed 560lbs. Certainly didn't feel like it, as long as you were going > 5mph. Nice tight turning radius for the Stelvio Pass and european towns. I'm returning to northern Spain and Portugal with this group, and I intend on renting the same bike. That's the surest endorsement!

[@PetrolJunkie]

“A GS sucks off-road.” Translates to: “I don’t know how to ride a GS off-road.” I literally go everywhere guys on Honda 450s go. You just have to understand that sometimes you have to throttle through or use a different technique to get there.

[@lorenbourassa1780]

"I literally go everywhere guys on Honda 450s go. You just have to understand that sometimes you have to throttle through or use a different technique to get there." Translates to: "I have ridden with beginner riders on Honda 450s"

[@PetrolJunkie]

@@lorenbourassa1780 Whatever you want to believe. Whatever you need to believe to protect your fragile ego. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t insult my friends just to fluff your own ego.

[@tutes0133]

In short before it gets out of hand. They're big, chunky, and A LOT to push to the offroad limits but a skilled rider can and will be able to get it indeed damn near anywhere (except when it's size is just too much of course) and make use of it's plentiful amounts of power in a smart way to get through. Just because it isn't easy doesn't mean it's impossible. Just signed the papers for an 2018 Africa Twin DCT and I for one cannot wait to show of my overgrown dirtbike with a penchant for luxery to both the roads and forests and mountains of Europe. Good one ya mate. And Loren? Don't be so mocking. Unneccesary at best, childish and a bit sad at worst

[@tomasspace4819]

I mean if there is a road even a ninja 300 would work. GS is massive, heavy bike full of electronics. You had do develop/lean different techniques and have precise throttle, that is not sentence you should say about bike that is good offroad.

[@YSPDJapan]

@@tutes0133 I out ride my friend on his Tenere 700 on my Super Tenere all the time. Once you get used to sliding the rear and knowing how hard you can push the front these machines fucking fly. Linked brakes means you just hammer the front, good ABS means you don't have to worry about sliding out, then you just enter the turn with whatever speed, lean the bike, and gas it coming out and you're gone. I think you're going to love the AT. Honestly, off road stick it in the manual shifting and just shift with your thumbs while selling; 100% the selling point for that bike. Big bikes love throttle. Get crash bars and send it dude.

[@ILOVERUSH101791]

Just got this bike a week ago and already hit my first service mark. The miles melt on this bike and it's just an incredible machine. ♥

[@THE-APEX]

I like that the leader board covers a broad spectrum of manufacturers (11). I want them all!

[@emak4558]

The way you notice the shift cam is the willingness to rev. Boxers generally do not like to rev (hello goldwing) as an inline 4 would for example. This one, for a boxer, revs very freely.

[@tippytailmckitty2658]

If Zack got pulled over for doing a wheelie, would his bosses be mad, or give him high fives? I'm guessing high fives.

[@Bill-v650]

the bigger question is does his employer have to pay the fines since he has to do it for work

[@clayman1980]

It'd be hi-five with the cop, I'd wager. 😉

[@HardlyaDavidson]

Something that taught me a lot about how tickets are truly not that big of a deal (of course to your financial stability they are) but you can get a ticket in a friends car/bike and they don’t get negatively influenced. I can’t imagine he’d even have to tell them, unless he wanted the high fives!

[@Thomas-qk7wf]

That the aging Versys 650LT is even mentioned in the face of the competition listed on that board is amazing. That it's in the top three is astounding. Every now and then I browse the classifieds for the Versys. There's something about it that appeals to me. Thanks, and keep up the great work.

[@christopherpaluck737]

The merging of entertainment and enlightenment done to perfection as usual. Great job Zack!

[@karryhoward3946]

Love my 07 1200 GS simple and lite but when I'm ready to buy new I'm staying with BMW 1200 GS for sure.

[@Maggieismydog]

Another great review, thank you Zack. This is the best bike I have ever ridden in my 24 years of having a motorcycle license. Its understandable why people consider this the best bike in the world. I'm holding out for an updated model as this will most likely be my last bike. Safe rides!

[@hanschang7358]

Yes!! No.1. I am a proud owner of 2019 R1250GS (MFG Date: Oct. 2018). but not a skillful off road rider, so 90% on well pavement road, less than 10% on mountain road or dirt road. so far over 16,000km. good bike, no complain.

[@KiwiMoto72]

I always used to make fun of GS’ until I rode one. I've owned 4 Multistradas. Love them too, but love my GS more. My track bike is a V4S though -

[@jh_90]

I'm still partial to the Desert Sled for city rides and casual offroading, but it can't be denied that this is the king of touring.

[@bigmartin]

I’d put the KTM and Multistrada up with the GS when they’re still putting in huge mileage when they’re 30 yrs (and more) old. I doubt too many people will still live with the KTM and Ducati for as long as GS riders do with their bike

[@Perkelenaattori]

Yeah people here are still charging a lot for a GS with 85k kilometres. There's a reason why a GS is a globetrotting choice for many.

[@mantan_rtw]

That has nothing to do with the bikes. In fact plenty of GSs come for sale with low mileage, anywhere from 1 to 15 years old. Ducatis used to be quite expensive to service at the dealers but KTM 1x90 is cheaper to maintain than the GS and will easily go 100k miles with regular maintenance.

[@Jay-yg8jj]

I don't keep bikes that long anyway. 20-40k miles and it's time for something new and exciting. If reliability is your concern, Yamaha CP2/CP3 will run literally forever, and they're half the weight of this.

[@jaimeriveras]

Best, most complete, informative, review I’ve seen on this bike. Also, you are a great rider.

[@abcusa123mich]

I had a set of the Vario bags. One nice thing is that they are repairable. You can disassemble the whole bag, replace or fix any broken parts and put them back together. So while being expensive, you can maintain them pretty easily.

[@briananderson2219]

Been waiting for this one! I love when Zack makes a video it gets a thumbs up before I even watch

[@snowpharoah3839]

That last segment of these shows, where Zach struggles to place the bikes in his ranking, is really so much fun... and it provides a bit of a personality test as well, don't you think?

[@boomcity4942]

Funny thing about big bikes is after you ride them for a while they start to look smaller and smaller. When I first got my HD Road Glide Special it seamed huge, but after about a month not so much. When I parked my new GSA next to the Road Glide it made the Road Glide. look small. The GSA weighs 300 lbs less the HD and after a week with the GSA both bikes look and feel smaller , but not small.

[@marklang5169]

Love your upbeat and energetic reviews Zach! Keep ‘me coming please.

[@sgabriel]

😂 😬

[@davidspicer332]

Being the owner of the 2018 R1200GSA Rally edition since December 2018, in my opinion (obviously since I put out the cash for one) this is the perfect bike. Yes the KTM may have better performance off road on paper... Why I chose this over that (I have owned KTM dirt bikes) is the well roundedness of this bike. My wife and I can get on it and ride across the country COMFORTABLY, then I can get on it and ride the Trans American Trail with a good friend (who rides a KTM 1190), I have also ridden the Mid Atlantic Back Country Discovery Route and some single track around my house. And then you have the sporty road performance. Just so people know what I have to compare this bike with I also have a 2016 S1000XR and a 2017 DRZ400SM. With the right tires (for me that is pretty much any of the Continental TKC's) I can have a blast running local twisties as well as a spirited romp down the Dragon on the GS. This, in my humble opinion, is truly a "If I could only have one bike this would be it" motorcycle. By the way my owners manual calls for 6000 mile services (oil changes) and 18,000 mile valve check intervals. However my service manager told me when I was trying to make an appointment to get them checked that he was waiting to check his personal GS's valves at 30,000 miles because he has never seen a GS that needed adjusted at 18,000. That being said my bike with the older style engine is simpler in the top end and as soon as my warranty expires I will check my own valves. The boxer engine is much like working on a single cylinder bike in this regard, you just do things twice. I do my own services now and just follow the service manual. I will take it in once in a while to get updates on the computer and I do let them do the brake system services (not pads). This is by far my favorite bike that I have ever owned period. Excellent review David Spicer 47 (and counting) years of riding off and on road.

[@mikemerrill175]

Thank you for the great report.

[@mortengammelgaard929]

People talking trash about the gs either never had one, or cant afford one. Best bike I ever had…. And I have had many ! On of the later bikes I had, was the KTM 1290 SAT. The bmw has less power…. But wins all other areas… better ballance, better wind protection, better ergonomis, better overall quality… better re-sale value. It`s a winner…

[@LTVoyager]

Need to do the Pan America now so we can see the compare and contrast.

[@ferociousfrankie]

Good, but not as good. lol

[@BikesNThings]

Zach will rip it to shreds. He hates all things Harley.

[@LTVoyager]

@@BikesNThings That will make it a good test.

[@agustinmorquecho7781]

@@BikesNThings no, he does not! he is not in love with custom, chopper, cruiser type of bike, you know, the front pegs, low ground clearance, no leaning no wheeling potential bikes.... but its not a hate, just he doesnt prefeer those over the others!

[@PistolPeteSTL]

I own a 2013 GS-A and an Africa Twin and recently got to ride the Pan America. It's probably as good as the Honda. It's not at the same level of the BMW. But overall, it's a heck of a first try for Harley. Nobody makes a class leading bike the first time they get into a new segment. Surprisingly, it's price competitive and the trick suspension that can lower at a stop will help get traditional Harley guys more comfortable with a bike that doesn't have a 26" seat height.

[@stephenfricke9298]

Had a 2007 BMW1200GS BY far the GOAT. I HAD it from fall 2007 to Sept 2009. 6 miles to 40K. By far because i did not own a car the swiss army knife of motorcycles. It failed to start once at 19 degrees in a shed. It warmed up to 34 and fired right up

[@masterchief3989]

1250 GS as a daily commute is a whole 3 grand Stanley tool kit to tighten the wheel nuts.

[@Bdub1952]

Well stated.

[@joeybobbie1]

Great Review. You forgot to add how Top Heavy the other Bikes are. Also the way the GS lays down, it’s easier to pick up. I still Ride my 2006 R1200GS and I have 4 Fusions in my Neck, and 2 in my lower Back. The GS is the only Bike I can Ride and not hurt.

[@robertlindstrom540]

The venom is most propably envy. That is a lot of bike, and I would love one. If someone gave it to me, of course. The prices are just ridiculous...

[@1998lemuel]

yeah and it's a bmw as well... so expect premium prices on any accessories and maintenance cost

[@stevenlewis6781]

I've got a 2009 GS, I bought it 3 years ago with 7k on the clock. It had the vario cases, a good skid plate and crash bars, two seats, and Garmin nav, cover, and good karoo 3 tires. I paid 8k for the bike and haven't looked back. I think it's the last of the oilhead motors and I can't begin to tell you how impressive the bike is. Don't be afraid to go find a good used one that's been well maintained, they are worth every penny.

[@jaimeriveras]

Fantastic review, thanks. I’m 5’7, 69 years old. Ride a 1250 low chasis - mostly in light to medium off-road, on knobby tires - love it. Have taken 25 falls - only damaged the protection bars. If I can, I ask people to help me pick the bike up. I also have trouble coming to gracious stops! BTW, BMW Motorrad just had a record year. Sold 60,000 GS’s. Ducati sold around 4,000 ADV’s.

[@robertobarrios3487]

Few things make my day like watching Zack Courts shut up GS haters with a dirt jump.

[@danlford]

I'm not a gs hater or owner but I did enjoy that also.

[@ericsweetadventure]

Valve clearance check is a super easy process completed in a few minutes on a GS/GSA, you can do it yourself if you have basic mechanics skill. So far mine have proven not to be out of shape as well. I ride single track and gravel (as much as possible) with full GSA crash bar setup and its a non issue. Deep ruts will sometimes brush the cylinder heads (bars in my case). If you do dump it the bars keep expensive bits off the rocks. For longer rides I tend to take the GS, I have a rally prepared 701 thats obviously more nimble on the trails but again for a long day of riding the GS outshines for comfort. If it's going to be a hard shorter day on the trails the lighter gnarlier 701, like any true 450/250 dirt bike, is going to be less work. I choose the days ride based upon the long term, if it's a day thrashing trails the 701 wins, if its a combination and the trails are a Bret Taks four with a bit of five I prefer the GS even for it's weight every time. It is one of the most comfortable bikes made. The only bike I have ridden that was more comfortable were the K1200LT's which tended to like asphalt and are not in this class at all. A GS will open up any terrain for the ADV tourer and you can ride single tracks all day if you're at a skill level were you allow the bike to work for you. If you're still a beginner and are white knuckle muscling a bike through the forest the weight of any big ADV bike will be intimidating. It was a pleasure to witness your serious riding skills, your slow speed tail dragging looked effortless. I am with you, if I can only have one bike in the garage it will be a GS.

[@bombaya85]

Do a Daily Rider on the 2.gen S1000XR please!

[@papatorr3669]

It's a relief to hear that $22,000 buys you #1 on the leader board. But for $22k and buying used vehicles, I managed to eek out: Suburban, Highlander, 330xi, & Boxster. TW200, KLR650, Shadow 500, Nighthawk 750, & R1100RT. That's not all my toys, but those came to $21,900. Take your time and be wise, you can easily have a good daily driver and all your gear for $2,000.

[@deeplato5647]

*ZACKO* Thanks for another fun ride along.. *PLEASE* have a crack on the MOTO GUZZI V85 TT. Thank you.

[@stevelawrie9115]

Well, so many GS's have gone from Cairns, Queensland, Australia, up to Cape York, the most northern tip of Australia. Not for the faint hearted, particularly the crocodiles. Lots of happy people and a long, technical ride. Put it on your bucket list, you'll love it.

[@snowpharoah3839]

I think I understand the Versys being up there, but as a daily bike, the two behemoths that are ranked 1 and 2 seem a bit much. As a daily bike, I think I would have the Triumph 850 up there. This to say that although it must be a blast to ride on the Ducati and the GS, I think a daily bike has to be more accessible. These are specialized motorcycles, intended for specialized riding.

[@MultiCutaway]

You've got it right on the leaderboard! I have a 1200GS and never any problems. Best multi-purpose bike ever.👍💌🇿🇦

[@jamesdumas6602]

Your comment about the 5th. and 6th. gears being closes to each other in their overall ratio, ( I think you said that you could not really tell any difference between the two gears) and that the GS's overall gearing was quite low, those comments were enough to rule out buying one. I like a tall 6th. gear. Thank you.

[@bufftankington7349]

When I tried the 2020 gsa it became apparent to me that I had no choice but to order one. So I did, and I don't regret that decision at all, I love this machine Edit: The vario boxes are shite, the toploaded aluminium boxes are in my opinion the way to go

[@petes_CE]

For the no-foot-down at stops, I find it easier to do this successfully when looking ahead and focusing on the horizon. With the high windscreen that the GS has, this may have thrown you off.

[@gkm3838]

That's right and the stop needs to be quicker than what he was doing.

[@Metalguitarpete]

And not coasting to a stop in neutral

[@andreasbeaufort3594]

If BMW's maintenance cost wasn't so high here in Brazil, I'd say "I DAMN WANT IT!" right away. It seems delightful do ride, good size, good weight, shaft drive, and I simply LOVE that boxer twin sound - almost as much as I love a straight-four purring, actually. Thanks for another excellent video, Zack!

[@alexsystems2001]

0:25 “Some people say it’s the Best Motorcycle in the World” 🤣 lol that’s what BMW stands for

[@maxflight777]

I Like that 🔝😂😂😂

[@Andrei_K1G1K]

I really hate how people say anti-dive... It dives plenty. The issue is that the rake and trail increase significantly so it "feels" like you're not diving. The front wheel goes out to the front instead of tucking toward the back like regular forks do. In some ways it makes the brake feel more wooden if you will. It's really great when you're riding two-up but it really doesn't make your bike magically not compress the front suspension.

[@jothain]

I'm astound that someone is curious about GS valve checks. I mean there can't be any easier access to valves on any other bike? 😁

[@lovelessissimo]

The air cooled gs is easier. 😉

[@zeplin4078]

Perhaps is about the costs, BMW services is not cheap

[@grahamnelson5376]

It’s easier to do but still annoying that it has to be done every 12,000 miles. Any serious touring bike should be over 20k miles for valve maintenance. Hell, most Japanese bikes are well over 20k for valve service.

[@Janduin45]

Yeah I mean sure it's recommended 3 times more often than the V4, but the job is 5 times simpler so the GS still wins that round imo.

[@jothain]

@@zeplin4078 You really can't be charged much for such easy location for the valves, or you're screwed all over. Easy to do and it's inspection. It's not like there's absolute need to change anything. I'd take that service anytime compared to my ZZR1400. It's absolute hell to even take valve cover out. I think it took me about 2 working days to first time change valve cover seal. I'd gladly check those BMW valves every couple months 😁

[@shawnolson9370]

I own a R1200GS. I just rode a R1250GS today. I would agree. Other bikes have more power and better features. The GS just is a nicer ride and great for mile munching.

[@Seb0046]

Great vid Zack. Agreed with the pick. I ride an older oiled cooled GSA and it is a great bike. The only item that I miss from the newer one is the cruise control. Throttle lock is good but not as comfortable. I used it for everything including daily commute, I like the view over traffic and still can lane split where allowed. For the no foot down stop I get better luck with only rear brake :)

[@jcrawford068]

I think the engine is way better on the 1250 than the 1200. The engine response from the shift cam tech can snap your neck off! And this engine is WAY smoother than the 1200. I upgraded for this reason alone.

[@_Makanko_]

Well there you have it, the new leader, It's not surprising but I must admit that you can tell that other brands like Ducati and KTM are getting a lot closer to dethroning it. I think the Versys is better in my mind but I'm considering it from my daily rider view where affordability and the ability to more easily filter is a bit higher on my list of qualities. I do think BMW should figure something with the exhaust so the luggage solution can be improved. No standard cruise is a point against the Kawa but for my commute it's not that important. I suppose the GS would be something to upgrade towards if I intend to a lot more touring. Next up in the Daily Rider, the new Busa ;) ? Cheers

[@triumphbill]

I agree 100 percent. Its a great bike period but as was said you can buy almost three Versys for one. This is a premium bike. I think a daily rider should be for the masses, maybe sub 12k? Maybe start a new play list of premium bikes? Anyway great job as always Zack.

[@chrischarousis3074]

difference is gs is an appliance.its comfortable quite fast comfortable and comfortable.KTM and Ducati both are visceral.much more than any bmw bike

[@49er002]

R 1250 GS is a legend, "and if I'm being honest" was destined for the top spot. Pedigree, performance, tech put the GS into the realm of best bike engineered, period. As long as one is not singularly focused, Track, Dirt, Serious Tourer. In the car world I think of the GS as a BMW X5. It defined the segment, is highly capable, and if you hit some dirt you will be just fine. As a GS owner, I think one thing that was overlooked in your assessment of the competition from KTM and Ducati is the BMW Dealer Network. For anyone that is planning to really tour any of these machines, all capable of course. But in the unfortunate situation of a breakdown, or a hard drop, the BMW Dealer Network is so vast (in the USA) compared to KTM and Ducati that parts and service are just so much more readily available. Again, great video and would love to see the 1290 up next to really hammer this podium out.

[@mgracias13]

Would love to see a Daily Rider video of Super Tenere, seems like it could be a good comp for the GS!

[@winstoncundiff]

Boringest bike I've ever ridden...Not saying it's bad or anything it just had ZERO personality.

[@bole2911]

Not even close

[@gregorysteffensen3279]

the big thing the Super Tenere has over other ADV bikes is the hardest thing for a motojourno to capture, which is its absolute brick shithouse reliability over a very long span of time. no drive shaft failures, no known major issues, very few electronics to break, good fuel mileage, all at the cost of some personality and weight

[@R4baDader]

Just rode pillion on my uncle's GS yesterday, gotta love the GS. I want to learn how to wrangle that thing once I learn on a smaller beast.

[@kvman50]

Great review Zack! I loved how you were so engaged with the bike, so entertaining and comfortable with us. A thought. .. maybe the "Balance test" doesn't determine how good a bike is at slow speed, more that it shows only one aspect of that equation. By the way, I own a Triumph Scrambler XC - no axe to grind here. Cheers!

[@nicolaumb7494]

Greetings from Portugal 🇵🇹 I ride one of those every day, commuting, on weekends, and occasionally, off-road. It's always a great pleasure, versatile, performant, comfortable, and it's just beautiful (for my taste). Of course, it isn't cheap but do your research...you won't be paying much less for a AFT Adv, and it will cost less than a Multistrada or a KTM. Nice rides! 🖖🏻

[@spikeymikey8487]

Hi Great review. I just happened to be one of the lucky ones that own a BMW R 1250 GS HP. If I remember correctly you reviewed the 2021 Ducati Multistrada which had adaptive cruise control. I know that you mentioned that the BMW 2021 model also had adaptive cruise control however in your final summary you gave points to the Multistrada. Over the BMW for that. I felt that was harsh considering you were comparing a 2020 model with a 2021 model. Just saying :-)) now I’ve been lucky enough to also have a day with the 2021 Ducati Multistrada. The Ducati put the biggest smile on my face while riding it, so much fun. When I finally had to take it back to the dealership I was asked my thoughts on it. My response was…. The bike is a great machine for playing on the open roads, a lot of fun. However in traffic I was continually having to ride the clutch because the bike needed to rev. That was just one more thing that you have to concentrate on while lane filtering Unlike the BMW which chugs along like a tractor in the low revs. I also take my beamer off road it’s way more capable than I am unfortunately. I doubt I will ever be able to get the full potential out of my machine. For obvious reasons I did not take the Ducati off road however I imagine that it would be difficult to ride in technical sections because you need to keep the revs up so much more. At the end of the day we are talking about a daily ride and in this case I believe that the BMW wins out right. Let the hating begin. Cheers.

[@ricardomelo6091]

Everything you said makes sense, but in the end it all depends what you're looking for... In many ways the BMW is no match for the Multistrada V4S, in others the BMW is a preferable choice. I personally would pick up the Multistrada without a doubt.

[@indravadan9548]

My Man you have become my bike review icon! No better reviews! Thanks

[@CaptainEli]

Amazing job man, may i ask you to take the new tracer (900) for a test ride?

[@vakkineni]

Took a test-ride the H-D PanAmerican, about 15 miles on a twisty section of the Santa Cruz mountains. Extremely impressive bike, felt powerful, nimble, and light. Matches the premium European bikes on features and technology, and trumps them on maintenance costs with the hydraulic valve-lash adjusters. To my eyes, the PanAmerican looks the best, too. Add in H-D's enormous sales and service network, and highly competitive pricing, I think it is going to take a lot of sales from, especially KTM and BMW!

[@oOMinhOo]

it'd be nice if you could show us the key/key fobs too

[@badeaalexandru523]

a real engineering machine brought with great passion and strictness by the Germans !! And thanks RevZilla for thir great video! Love from Romania!!🤗😎👊

[@hankgs]

I picked up a 2016 GSA after having 3 r1100GS' and 3 r1150GS'... I miss the "agricultural feel" of my 1150's- I have tried to embrace the W/C r1200, but I can't. I miss the sound of the air cooled and the feel of riding a real boxer... The 2016 has these damn TPS that on one wheel, has a dead little battery, which lets me know by the low air warning light... I Miss my r1150GSA!

[@Neiljitsu]

I think the twin cam one between 10-12 had the nicest sound.

[@Bazza47]

Having had 2 1200 GS's and now a 1250 I'd say the 1250 is definitely the better bike, the extra power and torque is noticable and the Hillhold and GSAP is smoother. So if you were buying either I'd say get the 1250, but if you already have the 1200 then it's probably not worth upgrading just for the sake of it but when you do you'll be glad you did. Another BIG advantage of the GS over it's competition if you're a short rider is the factory low option which was why I got mine. Couple that with the low COG because of the boxer engine makes it less intimidating to handle at low speed. Great review by the way and yes you are correct about the haters 😉

[@hurt1704]

I’m 5ft 10 and looking at these bikes. Do you think I would need the factory low option?

[@Bazza47]

@@hurt1704 It depends..... best thing you can do is test ride the standard bike and see how you get on. I'm 5'7" with a 29" inside leg and 65 years old. My factory lowered bike also automatically came with the lowered seat, but now I think you can order the lowered or standard seat at no extra cost. The lowered suspension reduces the seat height by 20mm, the lowered seat by IIRC an additional 20-30mm so in total reduces the seat height on a standard GS from 850mm to around 800mm with both. Depending on your inside leg measurement you might not need it. The lowered suspension doesn't effect the riding position but the lowered seat does-it means the seat to peg height is reduced so your knee angle is a bit more acute and you sit slightly more in the bike and a bit more vertical. One area where it definitely helps is if you have a pillion and luggage when doing low speed maneuvering and stopping at junctions etc. as it really helps with your confidence. The dealers only tend to have the standard bike on demonstration but obviously get used ones in from time to time so depending where you are it might be worth contacting your local dealer(s) to see if they have a used factor lowered one you could try though from experience they sell very quickly as both mine were sold within a couple of weeks so you might have to wait until they get one in. Good luck

[@hurt1704]

@@Bazza47 I actually just test rode a standard today. Until he adjusted the suspension in low mode I believe it was, I was too toeing at stop lights (Probably wouldn’t be the best for off-roading unless I rode in low mode). Unfortunately you are right, standard is all they have and they only have 1. I wish I could find the short, but my dealer near me isn’t even scheduled to get another one until September so if I don’t buy this one, I’m flying somewhere to ride one and buy it or waiting.btw for clarification, I am looking at the GSA

[@Bazza47]

@@hurt1704 Ah, the GSA.... no wonder you're on tip toes. IIRC the lowered GSA has the same seat height as a standard GS. You could fit a lowered seat to the standard GSA which would lower it by about 20mm plus have a look at a pair of Daytona M star boots as they give you another 25mm

[@hurt1704]

@@Bazza47 I actually found a short gs1250a in St. Louis I’m going to look at tomorrow. I think for overall use and off-roading, with a passenger and stacking weight on for gear, the short will be my best option so I’m not having to tip toe it. How much is a lowered seat if I just bought a regular gsa and put on it? What I might do is buy the short gsa and put a regular tall seat on it. Only problem is this one I’m looking at has the heated seat so it might be crazy expensive to do that

[@FUBAR956]

I wonder how a GS Adventure would be as a daily driver. Being in Texas, that bigger tank would be useful for those open roads.