Ride height of the Factory Lowered suspension BMW R1250GS for for those of us with shorter legs.

This is a video to answer quite a few questions on the same topic I received from viewers all of the same approximate height and leg length as me. I try to show a visual demonstration of the ride height settings fitted to the factory lowered suspension version of the BMWR1250GS, 2021 model. I am wearing fairly flat shoes with a small sole height for ease of demonstration.
This is by no means a definitive guide and nothing beats going to a showroom and trying for yourself. Better still rent one as I did for a few days or borrow a very nice mates bike. Dont make the same mistake I did and got the standard height model and ended up falling off with my wife on the back just because I could not get at least one foot flat on the ground when stopped without leaning the bike over too far. I sold that at a loss to buy the lowered model. This is serious money you are spending so get the right one for you and I hope this was helpful to you. Thanks for watching.

[@deanshaw2128]

Thanks for your video, very well presented. I’ve heard of people shying away from the lowered bike (for various reasons but mostly to do with a misguided sense of pride) when it really would have better suited them. I have a lowered 2017 GSA which I have ridden around and across Australia (>50k kms) and rarely have ever bottomed out badly, but enjoy every minute of it because I have a much greater sense of confidence when riding. Cheers.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Dean. I agree with you that having that confidence enhances enjoyment of riding these bikes so much.

[@johnpardon9986]

I'm in Australia, I'm 5'6" and I have a 2018 1200 GSA (with ESA) with the factory lowered suspension. In the ultimate quest to be able to sit flat footed (or as close as possible to FF) i have found that wunderlich sells the seat mounting rubbers with a 10mm off set mounting hole. Simply remove the standard seat mounting rubbers and replace them with these and 'voia' your seat drops by another 10mm. Like all wunderlich products, they work perfectly and aren't cheap. Including freight they were AUS$81 from the Sydney dealer. Best accessory I've every bought for a GS

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi John, I have a confession. I tried those rubbers but from that famous parts supplier, ali express. They worked to a degree on the standard GS I had. Ultimately the lowered suspension model was the one I needed. I found for me with a slightly longer inside leg than you at 29 inches the lowered model with the standard seat on the low settings was perfect. You have a big bike there. 30 litre tank. Good for Oz. probably not needed in NZ or UK. safe riding. mark

[@silverbuzzard]

Great video, I am on my fourth GS and now have the 1250 exclusive. Some stats, I am 5’5” inside leg 29” and 75 years old. I’ve had it factory lowered, lowered seat, after market pegs which give me another inch downwards on my legs when riding. I sit flat footed on the ground. Just covered 1500 miles in a 6 day ride around France, Germany and Switzerland riding 9 hours a day total comfort. I have added a strap on gel seat as the seat was uncomfortable with so many hours in the saddle it’s made a difference. Due to my height the only way I can get on the bike is to swing my foot up on the saddle and hop towards sliding across the saddle.😊.

[@WoodendWanderer]

That’s great to hear. Instead of swinging your foot over the saddle try standing up on the lower footrest peg with your left foot first first then mounting the bike. Sooooo mush easier. Ride safe 👍🏻

[@davewilton3101]

Greetings. Where did you get the lowered pegs? Thanks.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Pegs are standard David.

[@patvillagemotorcycleclubhu1904]

I'm 1.65M and got a factory lowered 1250GSA which I still found a little high even on low setting so purchased an extra low seat which was not cheap but made such a difference, I now use the auto without any problems. Having ridden the standard GSA the only difference I find is I have to lean slightly harder into corners due to being lower centre of gravity but no big deal, really enjoy my GSA !!!

[@bzbwaiinswitzerland5504]

Been searching for a comment like this for a while, so there is a difference with handling on the lower chassis version? Is it a big difference in handling?

[@patvillagemotorcycleclubhu1904]

@@bzbwaiinswitzerland5504 it is a very small difference, I prefer the handling of the lowered model. Also with the extra low seat you get better wind protection because of head height !!!

[@WoodendWanderer]

I agree. the difference in handling to me is so small so to make no difference at all. I prefer the lowered especially when offraoding as I can get my foot down quicker and dont fall over as much when the ground is slippery of has gravel on it.

[@smbelo]

Thanks!!! I’m in love for this bike and that was an issue for me… I’m also 165 cm. Thanks

[@LoganChartwalker]

I just ordered one, pick it up Friday this video has been really helpful! Thank you!

[@WoodendWanderer]

I hope you get many satisfying miles out of it Lloyd.

[@tatojanc]

Great video. I ordered my GSA yesterday and it helped me a lot. Thank you much.

[@WoodendWanderer]

That’s great to hear Tato. Let me know how you get on with it. Safe riding.

[@abiezz]

Excellent demonstration. The GS is king but the size can be intimidating. I am glad you took the time to show what the modes look like in the real works. Keep the vids coming and I just subscribed!!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks abiezz for taking the time to comment.Its really appreciated.

[@Zekenificent]

This is exactly what I have been looking for. Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you for the nice comment

[@UCP-YEMiy_C7YvK-uAycB4KA]

thank you for making this video, it is right what I am looking for.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you.

[@noelpogiako1]

Very informative and your really answered my biggest question about the seat height of this GS model. Thanks you for sharing with us. Ride safe and enjoy your ride. 👏👌👍

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you Eman. Glad it helped.

[@mayhempilot6158]

Thank you for the help and your service.

[@WoodendWanderer]

My pleasure Mayhem Pilot. Thanks for saying so as well. really appreciated. 👍

[@paulguthenberg364]

Great Team work gentle. Wonderful insight to have taken the time to share. I will definitely check this out comes the Spring. Also, look at all the other knowledge you generated by creating and posting. You just achieved what I thought was impossible…which is ‘There was no way my 2021 R1250GS Triple Black could be any better” Cheers from Canada🇨🇦

[@WoodendWanderer]

Great comment. Thanks for sharing Paul. Its appreciated.

[@ridesandmusic8391]

Thanks for your video. I ride a 2019 BMW R1250 GS Adventure and I am only 5'2". I also got a factory lowered suspension model, installed lowering adjustable clamp and an extra low seat. I also followed your advice on the suspension adjustment. With those adjustments, I am still tiptoeing but I can now reach the ground and ride more confidently. Thank for your video.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Ronald. Thanks for your note and thanks for the comment. You did well on the GSA. I took one for a test ride and it just felt enormous to me. That 30 litre tank is huge. Confidence is paramount. Stay safe.

[@msims1250]

Thank you for the excellent video. The R1250 GS is my dream bike. I’m 5’6” with a 28” inseam, and this makes me feel like I can definitely handle it.

[@WoodendWanderer]

you will be fine. Go for it. They are simply superb bikes.

[@Grantwrenn]

Great Video! I am currently on a Harley Davidson Road King but . . . man I love the GS! I am 5'7 (on a good day) this video has given me a lot of confidence.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Grant. I thought I would miss the my Roadking. There are days when I do. But I love the GS more. OK it does not have the appeal for some that the Harley does but for me the transition to the German machine has been fantastic.

[@krachenford9594]

Thank you very much! My GS 1250 is coming next week, you took a weight off my shoulder😂 Greetings to NZL from the home of humour!😂😂🇩🇪

[@WoodendWanderer]

Good afternoon Krachen. You did make me laugh! Enjoy your bike. It will make you smile. I am currently in the UK with the bike as there are lots of tours I want to do here before I go back to NZ.

[@wokeupandsmellthecoffee214]

nice review thanks for taking the time to produce it.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Love the name! My pleasure. I wanted the same questions answered myself so made the video.

[@rickyboyrandom]

Thank you sir for sharing the tricks how to lower or adjust the seat level that exactly fits to a rider.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you for your comment Rickyboy. Happy New Year.

[@MarkOfTheNorth]

Incredible video and information!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks mark. I hope it helped you and thanks for taking the time to write something 👍

[@dpinedoblog]

This is great - exact info I was looking for. Love the shirt too btw. Thanks!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Daniel. Thanks for leave a comment.

[@stephenmarshall9391]

being a short arse at 5.5 this was exactly the information i was looking for Thankyou

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Stephen. I made the video because I could not find one that answered the questions I had on being a bit low in the leg.

[@motodxb]

Cool video bud. I had rented the 1250 last year when I was in South Africa and luckily had the suspension on min. It was so easy and comfortable to ride. 👍

[@WoodendWanderer]

I cant see me getting another bike soon. Im 61 and this is going to see me through. I just love it. I like your music choices in your vids. keep them coming.

[@bayouboy8644]

Great video, very informative. Thank you.

[@anassalam3569]

And yeah....i hve been searching for this demonstration for a long long while..... Thank you amigo ...for this 😀

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you Anas salam. I too tried to find a demo on youtube without luck. Thats why I did one of my own. and Im glad it was useful for you.

[@anassalam3569]

@@WoodendWanderer absolutely yes

[@bzbwaiinswitzerland5504]

Very useful video! Still searching for one on the adventure version.

[@stephencritchley7169]

Thanks for the insight, young fella. Just about to pick up my new GSA low in March, this has been helpful! From a short arse Brit!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Stephen. Got the new GSA yet?

[@moseslamar8069]

Thank you, sir for your advice

[@TheTheoban]

Very informative, thank you

[@SticksAandstonesBozo]

Thank you for this. Very helpful.

[@WoodendWanderer]

You're very welcome.

[@twobranches]

That is the beauty of this machine where the ESA will set automatically when the pillion comes together. I will set AUTO mode so the bike will maintain its performance while riding. Great info from this video. Thanks

[@WoodendWanderer]

Yup I agree. Whenever I have my wife on the pillion seat I set auto on the ride height. Never had a problem with it yet.

[@christianpicardo2683]

This is great help ,I'm the same height as you ,I'm looking to take home my gs this year thanks men

[@WoodendWanderer]

You are welcome Christian. Enjoy your new bike when it comes. It’s a beauty.

[@jvl4832]

Wonderful overview for we the short ones. I am 5ˋ7 and did exactly these adjustments with my lowered suspension. By the way, the rubber sprockets under the seat which is set on L ,can be replaced with smaller sprockets ; it does help. I do love my gs more since i feel more confident getting my feet down. Wish you a healthy and happy Holidays. Greetings, Jim

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Jim. I have a set of low profile rubber bungs I got from Ali Express which I tried on the standard GS but bike was still to high for me. Did not need them on the factory lowered GS. The low setting on the forward seat bracket was all I needed. The confidence bit is what it is all about for me too. Keep well and maybe squeeze a ride or three in over the holidays. Cheers! Mark

[@regislacomme5238]

Thank you so much, very well explained and clearly demonstrated, I also had to sell my 2020 1250 GSA standard, after going there from a 2016 K1600 GT, I then bought a S 1000 XR in Feb 2021, but now thinking to move to a 2022 R 1250 RS with lowered suspension, full package.... cheers, greetings from Still Bay , South Africa.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Regis. Did you make a decision on the new bike yet?

[@regislacomme5238]

@@WoodendWanderer Yes, actually I have decided to keep the XR for at least another year, or two since I looks like BMW might just upgrade the current 1250 shiftcam boxer in 2023 so perhaps it is worth waiting a bit if one can soon get to a boxer machine with perhaps 150 hp + and even more torque... they certainly have to look at what Triumph is doing with the new Tiger 1200 specs and Ducati with their Multistrada, and perhaps try to keep the GS/GSA and all its derivative road going boxer sibblings competitive to the opposition in terms of "power and torque"... so yes for now I stick to the XR that remains an absolute amazing sport tourer, and will decide later depending on what comes up.... funny enough, I am starting to feel attracted by the looks and simplicity of the R Nine T range as well... so time will tell...Thx for asking, greetings!

[@billow9721]

Excellent advice thank you

[@WoodendWanderer]

Glad it was helpful Paul and thanks for taking time to say so.

[@jamestorregrossa1185]

Great demonstration my friend. I’m 5‘7“, I’ve been looking at the 750 GS because of my height but I may be a candidate for the bigger bike.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi James. I too looked at the smaller bike first. I took my wife on a test ride on it and found that it was a bit small for us so opted for the factory lowered 1250GS. It is amazing and very comfortable with two up.

[@gdbenji3278]

Awesome information have a great rides

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks for saying so. Thats appreciated. 👍

[@anupamyadav9786]

This video was really helpful. Cheers :)

[@WoodendWanderer]

Glad it was helpful and thanks for the comment Anupam.

[@anamargaretlowery2046]

Awesome video. Thank you! 🙂

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@huambo]

Thanks for the video. As someone with a short inside leg (29in) at 5ft 9in, i;ve just ordered a Triple Black GSA with lowered suspension, and this helps me know what to expect. Cheers and safe riding.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Glad it was of some help Samuel. Your bike will be awesome. Enjoy it 👍🏻

[@huambo]

@John CZ hi there, I ordered standard seat and lowered chassis, I think its the right compromise for me so I retain comfort.

[@WoodendWanderer]

@John CZ Hi John. Yes i Ordered the factory lowered model and lowered seat. The bike came with a standard seat fitted and I put the lowered seat on it. I changed back to the standard seat as I found with it on the low setting cams both front and back the standard seat was fine for me. So I have a lowered seat in a bag in my garage. The standard seat was more comfortable as well. Hope this helps.

[@ridingdreamer]

Im 5'7" with 29 inseam and tried the 850GS (which I am getting) and experienced the same. Ordered a low suspension with low seat one, wating eagerly for it. Thanks for demonstrating the difference, really helps.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks for the comment Dreamer. I test rode the lowered 850GS and loved it. I went for the 1250 only because I found that once I had loaded the bike up with luggage and had my wife on the back seat, the 1250 just had that extra bit of power that I liked. Enjoy your bike when it arrives. It will be awesome.

[@ridingdreamer]

@@WoodendWanderer Though I might also have an occasional pillion partner with some light luggage, from my test ride even the 850 has enough torque and power. For my build I felt it more comfortable and more than enough.

[@krachenford9594]

Good video! Thank you! Ride safe! Greetings from germany!!!!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you very much Krachen.

[@therakag]

this helps,Thx. I wanted R version but was worried.

[@garfieldzerwee1259]

Great video, thank you man

[@WoodendWanderer]

thanks for saying so Garfield.

[@shiftupadventure]

There's also one more nice trick with exchanging rubber balls on the metal adjuster itself (where L and H is), that will lower seat height by additional 1cm just by exchanging those rubber balls with lower ones. Aliexpress engineering 👍

[@WoodendWanderer]

Great tip! I tried that on the standard GS and it helped but not enough. I still have those aliexpress additions somewhere but dont need them on the factory lowered version.

[@danielogbu6939]

Impressive illustration. With a lowered seat height I can deal with the weight.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Daniel. It is a game changer for me especially with a pillion.

[@fess749]

I’m 5’7” with a 28” inseam. I have a factory lowered GS Adventure. I added the low Corbin riders seat ( lower than the BMW low seat) and found it very comfortable and allowed me to almost flat foot the bike. One disadvantage of the low suspension is that the center stand is still the same height. Takes quite a heave to get the bike on the stand.

[@WoodendWanderer]

thanks Fess. the factory lowered bike and centre stand works well for me but as you say is a bit of a heave. The bikes are heavy but not as much as my old HD Road King.

[@enzodelbono9884]

Thanks...i definitely want one...

[@dustyhall9149]

Great video thanks!!!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Glad you liked it and thanks for taking the time to say so. Its appreciated 👍

[@Ralph65]

Hola, tengo una gs adventure de 2017 con chasis low. Mido 1,75 y es lo mejor que he hecho por seguridad, no hago off road, no necesito más recorrido de suspensión, viajo con mi mujer y la moto low de fábrica es un plus de seguridad cuando estas parado. Gracias por este video y un saludo desde Spain

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hola Rafael. Gracias por agradar tu comentario. Me alegro de que estés disfrutando de la moto de suspensión baja. Realmente son los mejores, especialmente cuando viajas con tu esposa. La seguridad de tener los pies firmemente en el suelo es muy importante. Espero que esta traducción funcione ya que no hablo tan bien el español.

[@mjordan812]

Thanks for your insights. 28" inseam here and a penchant for tall bikes (Tiger Explorer 1200, MG V85TT & G310GS). Oddly enough, as the displacements lessen, the saddle heights increase. Go figure.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Michael. How true is that. I never figured out why.

[@masoodkhan7156]

Well described....thanks

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Masood.

[@michaelmcnulty4993]

I am looking at ordering 1 of these and was wondering about the lower version. Your video was a big help I am 1.76m high so Def going for lower version now. Cheers

[@WoodendWanderer]

you are just a bit taller than me Michael. I think you will be fine. Always good to test ride one first if you can. These bikes are not cheap!

[@martyn_g]

Same height as you. 176cm - I’m just taking the GSA as is. BUT I have a 32 inch inseam, and it has the same height as my old DR. What would be helpful, I reckon, when people talk height relative to seat height, people should ALWAYS mention inseam. It can confuse people as to what fits if they don’t mention that. My DR has a big 25 litre tank up high, so, I’m used to riding with the balls of my feet on the ground, or slinging my arse slightly to one side, left foot flat and the other foot on the foot brake.

[@andrewrowley5463]

Hallo WW, interesting video. I have on order the factory lowered GS, but have gone for the standard rather than low seat for better comfort. I have found you can lower the standard seat by a further 10/12 mm by changing the rubbers on the low/high bar under the seat. The new rubbers have the hole where they fit onto the bar offset instead of centre, which means you can move them to give a lower setting. Cost is about £5 /$6.50 US form Ali express or Ebay.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hello Andrew. I have the standard seat on the lowered model and found it to be perfect for me. I have the front and rear seat adjusters on the low settings. I had those rubbers courtesy of Ali express fitted on the standard GS I had before i changed to the lowered one to try it but it was still not enough for me. Now I feel much more confident and no more spills with my wife on the back! Most important. Safe riding.

[@TCphotographer]

it is helpful low seat F700GS I bought in dec.2015 and I'm 5ft 10 inches and like you legs 29.1inches long which I even found low seat of F700 very high only touching the ground of the tip but there is an option of R1250GS which is adjusting the height of the shock observors perfect

[@WoodendWanderer]

There is a factory lowered model which is perfect for me. Try one if you can.

[@germangarciafernandez]

Love your shirt

[@kenb.8596]

Excellent Demo, was looking to buy me a 1250GSA, I'm 5'8" 64yrs old, just need to find a new one in stock, I'm a touchy-feely buyer!!! 3 HD's 2 Dressers & a Road King, time for comfort!!!

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Ken. You are a little taller than me so the GSA may be good for you.Touchy feel buying is the only way in my opinion. I urge everybody to take a test ride or rent one for a few days before buying. These bikes are not cheap. I do miss my Road King at times though.

[@TumshieHeed]

@@WoodendWanderer Thank you so much for this. I like your attitude. Helpful. I have ordered the GSA Triple Black and while I wait I get waves of worry about this whole height thing. I did test the GSA at the local dealer and standard seat position [not low like you have] was surprisingly easy. On YT you will see really short riders [sometimes girls] on these bikes using 'technique' to manage the height. They do it amazingly well. Riders need to think about 'sag' viz., when you sit on your bike it sits down a little or a lot depending on the total body/gear load on the bike . Check out those YT vid's warning you about lowering a GSA. I am 5' 8" and 82 kg [sorry for the imperial and metric mix] and the GSA put me on the balls of my feet. But total height is not so vital as inseam length. I am 770 mm inseam. The T-shirt? I smiled at your wise anti-prodigality. Finally, BMW should be providing detailed online information on this stuff. That would be better than the confusion that dealers sometimes provide.

[@WoodendWanderer]

@@TumshieHeed love the name. Turnip head. Very Scottish. Thanks for the comment. I have seen the videos of the demur women riding big bikes. Good for them. Not me though. I like my feet on the ground especially with my wife as pillion and that was the main driver for me to get the lowered version. Confidence is key and having had my feet slip out from me a few times on taller bikes when on the balls of my feet I had enough. Enjoy your bike. They are awesome.

[@mackem49]

Excellent video answers a lot of questions. Can I just ask what make of engine bars do you have on your bike

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Mackem, they are Touratech bars. I looked at BMWs own and a few other brands. I went for touratech as they looked to me to be the easiest to fit and here in New Zealand were easy to get. They were not the cheapest or the most expensive and I fitted then in around 20 minutes. Very easy with full instructions and torque settings for the bolts. Everything you need including spacers came in the package.

[@stewkeene]

Wonderful video my friend. This really helped me. I almost purchased a GSA today but the sales people didn’t know enough. Question, do you also have the low seat on it?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Stew. No I have the standard seat but on the lowest setting on the underseat cams. It works great for me.

[@Arrato1977]

Thx this answered my question:P

[@jammydoughnut]

Great video. I've got the same short legs but ride a multistrada 1260s with no suspension changes

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Dough nut. Cool looking bike. I looked at a red one but was worried about taking it off-road. Panniers looked vulnerable. How do you get on with it on gravel roads?

[@jammydoughnut]

@Woodend Wanderer I use my wr450f for offroad. The multi, like all adventure bikes is too heavy to take offroad, imho and too expensive when it gets dropped

[@drjarvis2003]

5 foot 6 and 30 inch inside leg. I also had to go for the lowered version as the standard one just didn't feel right. kept the seat standard though. I'm quite light at 10 and a half stone. I keep it on auto, as for me there is no need go drop it.

[@WoodendWanderer]

That 1 inch of extra inside leg makes all the difference. I did try some boots with bigger soles on them as a stop gap until I got the lowered version but it was only ever going to be a temporary solution. My wife said I looked like a 70's glam rocker! Thanks for the comment.

[@boxofmoles4057]

That was quite helpful, mate. Yesterday, I purchased the 2022 (same color scheme). Keep the wheels down.

[@WoodendWanderer]

I hope you are enjoying your new ride. It is an amazing bike.

[@boxofmoles4057]

@@WoodendWanderer Smoother than Irish butter. ;-)

[@mickd802]

Nice bike I have the 1200 lc adv and am roughly your size I ride in 1 rider with luggage and can only put tiptoes down but I much prefer this as when I tried the low bike I was always catching my feet with the low chassis

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Mick. Good point. I have not had that happen to me yet but certainly something to be aware of. I did try the adventure but it was way too big for me. Safe riding.

[@IanTed]

Same inside leg as you on a normal GSA, Wunderlich lowering cams under seat and low setting I’m fine, with luggage on auto. I don’t feel the need for the lowered edition but it’s a matter of confidence. Off road use would be a totally different matter but then I would use a lot smaller and lighter bike than a GSA😀

[@WoodendWanderer]

Yup. Cant fault anything you suggest here Chukky. I go offroad but only mildly offroad such as gravel and country tracks and my lowered GS handles it well. Anything more and as you say, a little 250 dirt bike would be better. Thanks for commenting.

[@alanmorgan-jones5195]

The robber knobs on the height adjustment plate can be replaced , hole in centre of standard knobs, replacement knobs have off centre holes which when set accordingly give you 10mm lower height. Can be purchased on Ebay £6.50p £27 from bmw.

[@ezekielchariot]

Awesome

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Alan. I tried that on the standard GS courtesy of Ali Express. It did make a difference but not enough for me. I gave them away to the chap who bought the standard GS of me. He used them.

[@Bazza47]

I'm the same height/inside leg measurements as you and I'm on my 3rd factory lowered bike here on the UK. I use mine in Auto setting unless I'm on a narrow twisty hilly road where I too use minimum. If the factory lowered bike still isn't enough there are a couple of other things you can try. Daytona M Star boots have sole inserts that IIRC give you another 25mm and just out in the uk Cymarc are offering offset front seat bushes that replace the OE concentric ones to reduce the seat height even further.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thank you for the comment and your tips which are really helpful. I am amazed how many people have the same issues as we do with shorter legs and how many videos I've seen where the comment is simply get used to it. Not helpful when you are spending good money on these bikes.

[@Bazza47]

@@WoodendWanderer Thanks. When I got my 1st GS I'd also ridden the Triumph Explorer, which was just too big and top heavy for me to handle 2 up with luggage so when I was at the dealers ordering the GS they had a factory lowered one in the showroom waiting for a customer to pick it up and sitting on that and the standard height GS back to back the difference was quite noticeable. Once traded in both my 1200's sold inside 2 weeks in winter time too so the lowered ones are definitely in demand. It may sound strange but I've seen a few say the 1200/1250 is easier to handle at low speed than it's smaller brothers too because the weight is so low down due to the boxer engine. Personally I think I'd struggle with any other ADV bike of similar size and performance.

[@WoodendWanderer]

I did try out the KTM 1290 super adventure before I settled on the GS. It was way too tall for me. I also tried a smaller engined 850 GS and while it was a great bike, once I put luggage and my wife on the back it was not as nimble. My wife weighs 60KG. I am 95. so I settled for the 1250 and have no regrets whatsoever. This is my first BMW bike and I love it. It will do me for a few years now.

[@MrFlae]

Ahoy Captain! Thank you for the video! I am exactly your height and when I tested one of these bikes, I've got slightly better results as I was wearing riding boots (touring boots) which add about 1 1/2 CM to your height.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Good afternoon Ilie, they really are great bikes. I have a little better foothold as well when I put my boots on. Safe riding.

[@sypaseuthvongthavone8266]

so helpful for asian guys like me with 5'7

[@WoodendWanderer]

I agree. Why it is not a feature across all the models I don’t know.

[@chiefjoseph8154]

BMW is missing a huge market by not making this available to average height riders.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Totally agree. Would seem a no brainer to me.

[@stonecold2653]

Hi,did you by any chance try a GS 1250 adventurer with a standard chassis and a low type seat on the low setting.im am the exact height and inside leg as you and im looking to buy a GS in 2022. great video and content.many thnaks.just subscribed.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Stone Cold. Thanks for the comment. It is really appreciated. I did sit on one in the dealership. I just found the whole bike too big for me. That 30 litre gas tank is huge. I found that even with the low seat I was on the balls of my feet and was not that comfortable with it. Thats why I chose the GS.

[@arthurb8631]

5’5 standard height GS with Sargent low seat placed in high setting in front and low in back. This way I don’t slide forward. The only time I have an issue is when the road is canted left or right snd I have to make sure I pick the right leg. But the seat I have allows me to slide quickly from left foot to right foot. Off road that might be another issue entirely but then I would rather have the ground clearance.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Great comment Arthur. Thank you. I ended up falling off the bike with my wife on the back exactly as you mention. Stopped on a road with a big adverse camber and a bit of loose gravel on top and by the time my foot got flat the bike was leaning too much for me to hold up and over we went. That is what prompted me to get the factory lowered version.

[@arthurb8631]

@@WoodendWanderer I did that plus this one. I was making a u turn at the top of a dead end road. Unfortunately it was a hill at the top with potholes. Well you know how you have to only use your rear brake with slow speed maneuvering….. my front wheel dropped into a hole acting as if I stabbed the front brake. And down it went……I then slipped getting back up by putting my foot in the same freaking hole letting go of the clutch and watching my bike do a spin on the cylinder head.

[@arthurb8631]

But I do like the ground clearance

[@carlosparodiretail]

Amazing video! Question: can I buy it with that lowering technology at BMW or did you set that up at a different place?

[@WoodendWanderer]

You can Carlos. The suspension is adjustable using the controls on the left handlebar. It is standard.

[@dougiequick1]

Awesome....well other than the weight all those features just have to add! It is what gives me pause. My current motorcycle (Tracer 9gt) has all sorts of freatures but only weighs 485 llbs all gassed up! And it is a veritble PIG compared to its base platorm sibling (MT-09) which I believe is like 415 llbs....I am getting old and the static weight of each motorccle I own is really getting challenging just to push around the garage! not sure I can handle a full fetured 600+ llb GS....but dang what capable well designed bikes! They might as well put a larger starter motor capable of propelling the motorcycle in manueviring it while the engine is off....including reverse, Hey whats another 10 llbs at this point? I really think that could work! My thinking is you would simply power up the dash not starting the engine, then put it in first gear and select "taxi" feature? then a "beep beep" warning twisting the throttle then slowly electic power becomes available to manuever the motorcycle then you push some other double purposed button perhaps which causes starter motor to propel the motorcycle in REVERSE as throttle is applied....again proceeded by warning beep beep beep...that is my vision for easy to manuever heavy bikes....? seems totally doable! It would need some type of battery monitor to dissalow the function if someone decided to be stupid and drain the battery fooling around or otherwise abusing the intending capabilities ....I mean you would NOT want to have a massive battery to the point it was a semi hybrid!

[@WoodendWanderer]

You make a great point Dougie. I know some of the big tourers have a reverse fitted. The Goldwing has had it fitted now for many years. I think the big BMW tourers have it now. Not sure about the HD ultra glides yet. It was only a few years ago I could move a Harley Road king around with ease. This GS fulled boxed up now takes a bit of thinking to move around. My 63 year old legs struggle a bit when it’s fully loaded. That aside it is still a fantastic machine and comfortably handles any riding I do whether on road or off.

[@davemcmahon8140]

On my 2016 you can also adjust the back of the the drivers seat up or down. I would imagine you can still on the the 2021

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Dave ,Yes you can and I completely forgot to mention it in my video. I have mine rotated so the lugs are forward in the lowered position. Thanks for pointing it out.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Thanks WW very useful video. I have a standard 2019 GS and with settings at Road & Auto & with an inside leg of 32" I am flat footing but having just bought it until I determined the correct settings that were too high I really did struggle at junctions etc. Can I ask with yours on Minimum does it give you a comfortable ride. Thanks Ted

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Ted. The ride is great on minimum with just myself on it and even with full luggage. With my wife on the back I tend to start in minimum as she has smaller legs ( she is 5'3") than I do and it helps her get on better and then set auto just because of the extra weight on the back once we are moving. And to stop any chance of bottoming out. It has never happened to me yet. Hope that helps.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

@@WoodendWanderer Thanks WW some great information there.

[@markhooker1142]

Thanks for the video, am thinking of getting the lowered version myself. Can I ask, is the ride height that is configured maintained once the bike is switched off? Worried the bike could fall over if left on the side stand on a cambered road surface.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Mark. To date I have had no issues as all. The ride height is configured with the left hand input button as I hope i showed. Those options remain after the bike has been switched off. I try and avoid cambered surfaces as a rule when parking the bike up and tend to check for camber and even ground softness when picking a spot. My main problem with cambered surfaces to park on is getting the bike up off the sidestand with my little legs if I have left it on a road with too much camber. Learned that lesson the hard way and had to get a passing member of the public to push me up off the side stand. Too embarrassing!

[@nidhishpv7684]

Very useful videos.. thanks. Just one quick doubt, is GSA (Factor Low Suspension) LOWER than GS(Factory Low Suspension) ?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Nidhish. That’s a good question. I did not try a factory lowered GSA because at the time I did not know there was such a thing and secondly the GSA has a 30 litre tank which is very wide for me and I really don’t need such a big tank. I preferred the GS.

[@TheObs3rv3r]

Hi, I’m going to do your same operation! I’m changing my R1250GS my2019 for a new one R1250GS my2021with lowered suspension (and lowered seat, of course!). I'm much shorter than you (1.64cm) and I'm on my 3rd GS in 7 years! I hope not to find a very different bike because I have not been able to try it before ... but simply more suited to my height!

[@WoodendWanderer]

thats what I did. The new factory lowered bike is not different at all in handling from the standard bike. Good luck with your new bike. You will love it.

[@prahaladadharsh9766]

Dude...does lowered seat causes discomfort in seats??..do they reduce the cushion!?...

[@WoodendWanderer]

@@prahaladadharsh9766 hi Prahalad, I find the lowered seat just as comfortable. The upright seated position is really comfortable compared to my old harley road king for instance where I was sitting slightly reclined. That used to make my backside numb after about an hour or so. Not the BMW. I have ridden for a couple of hours straight with no discomfort.

[@prahaladadharsh9766]

@@WoodendWanderer thanks for the reply... ❤️

[@rosemont5339]

Do you find the windscreen bothersome? When I sat on one these at a show I did not like how the windshield has some distortion. Unlike a plain windshield.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Rose. Yes it can be but I tend to keep mine low. Just enough to stop the wind buffeting my head. I rarely look through mine.

[@larifari4371]

Good demo! Aint there a loss of comfort going in low compared to std?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Lari. I can honestly say there is no loss of comfort for my height. If you are tall then yes maybe. But then you would not need to buy the lowered model. Compared to the Harley I used to have the riding position on the GS is much better.

[@davidlondono3518]

Awesome video sir. Quick question how much did you lower it?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi David. This is the factory lowered GS so came lowered already. I reckon it is around 5cms lower than the standard GS that I had before. This made a huge difference for me. Hope that answers your question.

[@Boxer1250RT]

A lot of Uneducated Riders (people who don't know anything about these bikes) insist on the high suspension while they have no clue how much the bike can be raised. I am 6' tall and I cannot flatfoot mine when it's on High. I owned a Factory High and I hated it. Now, I have best of both worlds.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks for the comment Becker. The only way is to ride one of these bikes for a few days. Most dealerships allow you maybe an hour to test ride. It is nowhere near enough. I hired the lowered version for 5 days before buying one. Then I knew it was the right one for me. Safe riding.

[@ignalex589]

hi mate. good video. I am considering get the lowered GS (I am 5.6). do you have any idea if the suspension will do the good job for the light wight rider :) I am 60 kg. cheers Alex

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks for the comment Alexander. It will be perfect in my view. Once you get used to all the suspension settings you can find the one best suited to you and your riding style. That’s why I love the GS so much. I wish I was 60kg.

[@ianhoskins7838]

I presume Road>Max is the upper limit, so if you set Dynamic it wouldn't exceed the Road>Max seat height?

[@addbdd5679]

first of all thank you for the vedio ( your bmw gs 1250 adventure low suspension what is the gallon tank size ? )

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Add Bdd. My bike is the GS not the GS Adventure. I have the 20 litre tank not the 30 litre that the GSA has.

[@perfjelldal3903]

Hi , tks for your info , du you have the low seat as well or standard seat ?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Per. It is the standard seat. But in the low setting.

[@ezekielchariot]

I'm also here in NZ, did you have to order this special and wait? What dealer?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Allan. I did order it through Avon City Motorcycles in Sockburn Christchurch. Speak to Eliot. Very knowledgeable young man in sales. I waited about 4 months but then that was just as covid hit the world and delayed deliveries. I understand that NZ BMW imports more lowered versions as more people are opting for them.

[@aaronbirnie7363]

Did you lose more of the riding modes? I thought there was a rain mode?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Aaron. The modes including rain are all there as standard. You can choose 4 modes that you most commonly use to cycle through on the right handlebar control. For others you need to go into the menu. But they are all still there.

[@frankwilliams327]

There's a second lowering for the main saddle. It's a black lever

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Frank. You are absolutely correct and i have mine rotated down into the lowered lugs forward position. Now I look at it I did not put that in my video and I have no idea why. Thanks for pointing it out.

[@ugurpolat325]

Very good video. I got all the answers that i needed. Unfortunately bmw has a representative here in Turkey instead of as factory. They are importing one or two different types of 1250 gs and the factory lowered version is not one of them. If i buy a touratech lowering kit can i achive the same result? Greetings from izmir turkey.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Ugur. I have been to your amazing city as I work on ships. It is a great place. Izmir and Kusadasi are my favourite places in Turkey. I have friends who got lowering kits for GS 1200s and 1250s. Whilst they do lower the bike it seems to me they also alter the geometry and therefore the handling of the bike. The factory lowered models in my view are better. Personally if I was buying a brand new bike I would try and get the factory lowered version. If you cannot get one I would buy a used bike and get a lowering kit. These bikes are not cheap when new.

[@ugurpolat325]

@@WoodendWanderer thank you for the detailed answer

[@DallasBros]

Hello! So can i ask something to verify me thoughts? I believe this is an option that comes only with Dynamic ESA, Dynamic ESA is ability of the suspension to adjust the dumping according to the road conditions. (Which by the way the suspension have the standard height). Now you can choose the option of a lowering kit to lower the suspension to the closest limit from the dumping, for example the MIN. To be able to flat foot. So my question is, i don't believe that they use different suspension. They use the same just with that kit to lower it. Something like Pan America's. or like aero suspension. If you put it to the MAX you will have the same height as the standard with the Dynamic ESA? or it will still be that 5cm lower as you say? Can you verify that is like this? or they use different suspension? I will ask myself the BMW Motorad for info i was just wondering because, i'm 5,7 myself and i'm not sure what to choose. if that affects the height and the ride ability

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Dallas. The GS has the Dynamic ESA fitted.My understanding is the bike has the lowered kit on it so that the geometry of the bike is unaffected. Maybe some other readers can correct me if I am wrong. If I set the bike to max then I am on my toes which as you say seems to be like the standard bike with standard seat on the min setting. When I tried the standard GS in this mode I was on my toes. I hope that makes sense.

[@bzbwaiinswitzerland5504]

Do you feel any major or if at all, difference in the handling / control of the lower version? I was hesitant when ordering my GSA low, and I’m still worried if i made the right choice going for the lower version. I would appreciate if you can shed some light on this topic considering you had the standard one and now changed to the lowered one. Thanks!

[@joost1183]

If you are not offroading you're fine with around the same ground clearance as a regular gs

[@WoodendWanderer]

The lowered bike is excellent. I have used it on forest tracks and light offroad work and it was fine. The key for me was the stability getting my feet down so for me the lowered version was what I needed.

[@MayorofDipshittery-lq7if]

I find the bike sits very upright on the side stand when parked and I also have the factory low chassis , road mode and low setting.

[@robertreidmd]

Thank you for this video! Very well presented. QUESTION: are you able to lift your bike back up when it falls over? I am new to cycling, been riding Ninja 300 as starter bike, considering upgrading to your bike, but I am a little concerned about my ability to pick it back up. I am 60 years old, similar belly, 100 kg, sedentary and not fit.

[@speedyc9473]

I am 66 and similar build and have a 2019 gs adventure it is not easy but I can lift it back up if i do it the right way. there are several videos on youtube showing you how to do it correctly.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Yep you can old Doc and its a darn sight easier than the harley road king was. Plenty of good vids how to do it using your legs. Key is turning the handlebars before you attempt to lift with your back to the bike. You will know what I mean when you see the vids on YT. Good luck!

[@robertreidmd]

@@WoodendWanderer THANK YOU!

[@Victor-fg1ky]

Hello, I wouldn't advise u switch to this bike. Based on ur comments,it seems u've not mastered the fundamentals of riding yet which is key to riding bigger bikes. I've seen friends make this same mistake too sadly. I like the fact u started with a Ninja 300, i as well started with a 400, switched to a Tracer 9 gt, b4 finally riding the GS1250. No matter ur height, weight, athletic fitness/not, there's over 3 different techniques to pickup a bike. I'm 5'6 and I only use one foot mostly the left to come to stops/ i dismount or do the cowboy stance when moving🤷‍♂️(can't do that uphill though since I've not practiced that yet), these are really not challenges when u understand riding: It's all about the technique. In fact, u don't really pick up the bike fully, it gets raised and u walk it up. Also,learn to familiarize urself with ur bike doing the 1touch challenge trying to walk round ur bike holding it upright(1st with two hands,later to 1 hand, and finally using 1 or 2 fingers) without letting it fall. Sounds funny but it helps 🤷‍♂️ The fact that u asked this question shows u still have fears and concerns about falling the bike, which reflects less confidence with your riding skills, which is why I'm advising u to learn the basics completely and upgrade to the bike that suits ur riding capability. If u can, I would advise u take MSF courses, other riding bootcamps, won't advise u go straight for adventure riding courses straight away though. As they say, u have to learn to walk b4 u can fly. Hope this helps 👍

[@robertreidmd]

@@Victor-fg1ky thank you for your comments!

[@michaelwilliams3861]

I’m 5’6” (168cm) and I’ve just swapped my GSA lowered for the GS, for the same reason. Looking forward to flat footing at last. What lower crash bars do you have? BMW/Wunderlich?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Michael. For me flat footing makes so much difference especially with my wife on the back. The crash bars are Touratechs. Really easy to fit yourself, come with full instructions and all nuts and bolts required. They look good too. Safe riding!

[@JimiHendrix998]

I had no idea such things were available!! Thanks.

[@michaelwilliams3861]

@@WoodendWanderer I’ve had the GS for about 8 months now, I don’t know why, but I still can’t flat foot.

[@AshokVlogs]

what is the seat height of factory lowered suspension+ low seat and setiing road and min.

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Ashok, I cant answer that right now as my bike is in a container moving from New Zealand to the UK. I hope another reader here can answer that before I can.

[@dougiequick1]

I am not short I started off 5 11 but have by 68years old shrunk to 5 10 I am not worried about reaching the ground I just want MORE confidence due to my age and waning strength etc...should I get the factory lowered ?

[@WoodendWanderer]

absolutely. I'm 61 and my main factor was much as yours in addition having my wife as a pillion. I had the standard GS first and changed to the factory lowered model. You will not be disappointed. Thanks for the comment.

[@seeshimizu2549]

cool

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hope it was useful for you.

[@rumblemoto7564]

If I were to set it to minimum and I am 5'6.5 would it still be manageable for me?

[@WoodendWanderer]

Hi Rumble. Yes it would. I am only an inch taller. The standard GS would be tall for you in my view.

[@SurfnPics]

I've just ordered a F850GSA with a low seat and suspension. Unfortunately with that model I loose the Dynamic electronic suspension feature. Albeit I save a little over AU$1,000 I would rather pay and have that tech.

[@WoodendWanderer]

the 850 is an amazing machine. You wont be disappointed with it. I only went for the 1250 as my wife comes pillion and it is less cramped for us.

[@wokeupandsmellthecoffee214]

hi mate, I have the 850GS Sport from new in 2019 and love it, mine is factory lowered as I am 5'7" and its perfect.

[@Jodyrides]

What about the U joint angle? I haven’t studied BMW driveshaft U joints. But I’ve been around a few decades, and I know/remember/people lowering their driveshaft motorcycles, and having problems. I don’t know about the BMWs, but , U joints rotation safe range is appx 8° that is one of the reasons you do not see many off-road dirtbike‘s, motocross bikes, with driveshafts. Those machines have over a foot of travel currently, making it impossible to have a single U joint driveshaft… look at it this way. cars and trucks of the past, before front wheel drive was very popular, generally had a front engine and transmission, with a driveshaft, with U joint transferring the power to the rear diff and axles. it was not very common to have u joints fail.. more recently-/more and more cars have front wheel drive. with axles and CV joints. because the front wheels must rotate and turn and allow the suspension to react to road conditions, it is not uncommon for a CV joint to fail. I have owned many vehicles, pick up trucks, vans, cars, with front engine rear wheel drive… I have never had to replace a u joint in any vehicle I ever owned with a front engine rear wheel drive configuration. over the past 25 years, I have had several cars with front wheel drive. So have my sons and my daughter. I have replaced several front axles because the CV joints failed, due to their extreme angles that they have to transmit the power .. it’s so common for a front wheel drive car to have a CV joint go bad, that most auto parts stores have just what you need in stock. I have seen motorcycles that the people have changed the shock absorbers to lower their motorcycle for their wife to ride by herself… and because of that, I have heard the clicking/binding of the universal joint on those motorcycles because the driveshaft has exceeded the 8° limit of rotation due to the shorter shocks.. Now if the BMW factory offered a lowering kit as an option from the factory. I’m pretty confident that it is OK/for now

[@WoodendWanderer]

Thanks Jody for the very informative reply. What you say makes total sense. The bike came as a factory lowered version so I would like to think that the UJ travel was incorporated into their design. It seems to me that the geometry has been preserved when the front and rear ends were lowered and whilst I have not that much mileage on the bike yet I have not heard anything untoward from the rear end. But I will certainly watch now having read your information.