BMW R1250RS Review - Final Thoughts

[@seanhunter111]

Having lived with my R1250RS for a year now, it was interesting to come back to this review, which was one of those I watched when making up my mind on what to get. I owned a GS around 2002-ish and loved it, but ended up taking about a 10 year break from riding for various reasons. I settled on the RS as my ride coming back to biking and have found it a fantastic bike. I'm 6'4" and the riding position is fine for me (including the knees), and I find myself always engaged even on long journeys. Thoroughly recommend this bike, and thanks for your various reviews of it which I watched many times before deciding on buying one.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one Sean…and welcome back to biking!

[@motorcyclematthew5741]

Thanks for both reviews, tall rider myself 6'4 ish (40 and slowly shrinking) currently on an Aprilia Dorsoduro 900. Now I love the power of that bike, maneuverabily is spot on and very grounded, down sides: chain maintenance, zero wind protection and super small fuel tank as well as the lurching in low speeds. I'll see about the handling on the R 1250 RS on a 2020 test ride.

[@paulyflyer8154]

A year on, have you still got it? I'm only 5'10 but over 60 and wondered if it's comfortable enough to leave my old man's GS?

[@seanhunter111]

@@paulyflyer8154 I would say it may well be more comfortable for you than the GS although these things are very personal. Unfortunately I don’t still have it. It was stolen a couple of months back just before my birthday :(

[@paulyflyer8154]

@Sean Hunter Oh god that's a shame 😔. Have you replaced it yet? That's encouraging what you say about it being more comfortable. Thank you.

[@jimevans9550]

I had a 1200 RS and it was brilliant. I rode it sea-to-sea across Canada, wore the tires out on a track weekend, just went shopping on it. Apart from two headlight bulbs nothing went wrong in 70,000 km. I saw 230km/ h and it wasn’t flat out. The 1250 presumably is just a little better. Oh yes, it was great on gravel roads, too.

[@cyprn6600]

Did you found the tank capacity limiting?

[@jimevans9550]

@ the range was just about what I could stand without a break! That said, more would have been better. I did find that you could go about 40 km after the gauge said empty…

[@joshnnik]

I really fancy this bike but then I saw the new Tigers in your previous video, so many bikes, so little time and even less money!

[@ewooll]

Really funny! Yes, most of us have this problem.

[@paullydon3452]

Guys,just like to make one comment.Using the sport seat option for this bike makes a real difference to the ergonomics. Taller riders won’t feel as cramped.Its worth noting there are three seat options.Low,standard and sport.The Bike comes with the standard seat unless specified otherwise...

[@karlbratby4349]

I really fancied it and tested it but then rode the ninja 1000 sx with performance tourer packs and just fell in love, sorry BMW But Kawasaki made a peach of a bike

[@threedogs123]

Don't be put off by the comments about too cramped for people over 6' I'm just over 6' and 75 years old with a full replacement knee and I ride for hours on end and find it very comfortable. Thanks for a good review!

[@sirrevzalot]

Heyo! 2016 LC R 1200 RS owner here. Not the same engine, but virtually the same otherwise. I’ve got 32,000 miles on her so far with multiple 2,000+ mile tours (From Dallas, TX to Colorado mostly). In response to your assessment, I can confirm a few things. 1. The stock exhaust is quiet and it’s very easy on the ears for 6-8 hour days in the saddle. 2. At 5’ 11” with a 32 in. inseam, I can say it’s my ass that gets sore on long days, not my knees (despite the slightly acute knee angle). 3. I bought this bike (among other things) to avoid following the GS crowd, and I’ve never regretted that decision. I camp off of this bike, I ride across the US with this bike, and I even take it on dirt forest roads if needed. I’ve never been more pleased with a bike. This one just gets better and better with time. I’m glad I was honest about my needs and avoided the GS path when I didn’t need it.

[@claytonsorensen1596]

Im looking at buying one...i'm 6 foot, 235 pounds....did you replace the seat? I currently have an Indian Scout amd have been through 3 seats and can't get the bike sorted for longer distance rides...hence me looking now at sport tourers.

[@colonelquickshifter6534]

I be just sold my 1250 Gs - simply didn’t enjoy riding in twisties. (19inch front) and got to nervous riding off road ... so this could be perfect test riding in new year

[@charlesredbridge5870]

What's a better bike for the twisties?

[@colberki]

My 2020 R1250RS is one year old too. I love it. I decided to give it some love by ordering a Classic billet pack II for it. Together with my 2021 S1000R M package, I am really happy with the bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool!

[@Matt43]

I always buy the bike for the type of riding I'll be doing... wanted to ride trails 98% of the time so I got a WR450F (motocross bike with lights) and "converted" it so I could ride on the road that other 2% of the time... Horrible on the road but it's just to connect trails so who cares! She rips up the trails!

[@Moto_Deano]

Just bought one and it is an epic machine. Absolutely beautiful bike.

[@mostleesimian3448]

Just bought one, and your reviews were part of my decision process. Thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations!

[@cliveomahoney4096]

I'm the same sort of size and age as you. I think that being canted slightly forward on a bike, and not sitting bolt upright (pipe smoking style) is far more engaging and makes riding bikes so much more enjoyable. I had a Tracer 700 and one day thought: what am I doing on this thing, it's far too civilised and comfy. I'd only last a few miles on a sports bike - cramp, ague, etc. But, there is a compromise. I'd never get a lardy adventure bike just for the view over traffic. The RS, however, is about the only BMW that I would consider buying.

[@Rayk76]

It was great that you cut to a picture of u on the bike showing ur body position 👏👏👏 brill review

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks 👍

[@noelsheedy]

As a high milage motorcyclist, i.e 20K miles + a year, I don't rate loud exhausts. Even outside of long runs, I hate loud exhausts on my daily London city commute. It is not a safety feature, noise is a regular annoyance in London, just ride safely, no need for Noise warnings. (I hate a 1particular 25 and a Ducati rider on my commute who blast me needlessly daily)

[@artmchugh5644]

Noel Sheedy don't get me started on obnoxious harley riders !! When I ride my multistrada I wear my shirt that reads " LOUD PIPES POOR SUBSTITUTE FOR NO SKILL " !!!!

[@seymourskinner2533]

Loud pipes risk rights🙁

[@brittsmith1824]

Thanks for the thorough review series. After viewing them all, you helped convince me to hang onto my S1000XR and simply add a Speed Twin to the garage.

[@raghavshankara5601]

I hope you have both bikes... I am in confusion of selecting one now. So which one would you recommend? Tks

[@brittsmith1824]

@@raghavshankara5601 The Speed Twin. Hands down. I ended up selling the S1000XR. You will love the Triumph. Enjoy and Happy New Year!

[@stephenwaters3989]

Thanks

[@JeffWoodVJ]

I've a read a few comments where people think the only choice for tallers rider is the GS. But don't forget the R1250R. If you put a +30mm Wunderlich seat on it the HP lowered adjustable pegs/levers, you get almost GS knee and hip angles. Also the R is much cheaper than a GS. And you don't have to have all the options, you can do it on the cheap (ish) and it will still be a great bike..

[@robertlee8042]

Interestingly if you set the GS A suspension to road and min the damned thing is low enough to easily flat feet 30 inch inseam. I have a GS Adv. I live in USA. The advantage of the GS Adv is that when your3 flying along for hours at a time it’s nice to be high-which you get with a press of a button. I think the GS A is an incredible machine. I go off road 5% of the time. There’s got to be a payoff for me to go off road. I’m 75 and never enjoyed dirt for dirt’s sake. I don’t like to go down. You need to go down till you get good. Not true on the road. I’m 75. If there’s a beautiful view at the end of the dirt trail I’ll go. But that’s 5% of what I come across. I have a Yamaha T700 in Europe. I think I have the perfect motorcycles for each country.

[@pmdinaz]

I have buyer's remorse. I forked over cash for a Tiger Alpine and it suffers from the dreaded swingarm issue. it will be sorted out by Triumph, but it ruined my vacation this week. Wife and I specifically bought it as a 2 up bike, and for me to commute to work on. I wish i would have gotten this 1250 RS...

[@peterwrench4416]

That’s another for the “Shed” although the shed is quickly taking on the proportions of a Warehouse! Would’ve been hard returning that one.

[@davewilton3101]

You comment about loud exhaust being fatiquing is right on. I have an indian challenger and i love the bike with the exception of that loud exhaust. I use bose qc20 noise cancelling earbuds as their effective frequency cancellation range quiets the exhaust. Considering an RT. Plus 200# lighter. I'm 71 and pushing 800+ # around the garage is now a challenge. I'd prefer the rs but the tight knee angle might be a problem. Greetings from Canada.

[@00L1nk00]

I've had a '67 R1200RS from new and use it for commuting, weekend riding and touring. Great machine - at 5'10" the seating is very comfy for me but would agree if you're over 6' or an older bloke then it'd be worth riding it and the GS back to back as I image the GS is easier on the knees and hips. The only other negative (that I think you touched on in another video) is the turning circle is laughably bad - feels worse than my car! This in combination with the width of the machine means I would absolutely NOT recommend it for people doing lots of filtering in a city. Filtering outside of dense cities is fine though. As a all purpose machine for people with one bike it's probably one of the best options - fun at the weekend, good on tour, okay for commuting, good on fuel, comfy, and not as ugly as the GS :P. Not sure why the GS is just that much more popular really!

[@gerrypowell2748]

RS’s have always been underestimated🥺

[@toluwole]

I hadn’t realized there was a new RS. I had whittled down my choices to the Ducati SS 950 but this is tempting.

[@GadgetMart]

Reason for GS for me is riding position. I’m 6’3”

[@GrumpyGarry121]

Same for me. Funny riding another bike then getting back on the gs it’s like a great big comfy armchair. Wouldn’t swap mine for anything

[@russelllocke7180]

Grumpy Garry At 6’4” I know what you mean, & my wife, whilst not overly tall, isn’t short.👍🏍🇦🇺

[@GooseDave]

Always good reviews with you. Good points made.

[@king22340]

Wish someone did a comparison of Ktm Sd1250, R1250RS and Ninja1000sx these seems to be the most popular sports tourers

[@MoraleHazard]

I bought one of these last August and being 6'3" got a Wunderlich sport seat which I've found very comfortable so far and helps slightly with the reach to the bars. I came from a BMW R1150R and I think the seating position on the RS is more intuitive / stable on faster sweepers and twisties and a little mit more annoying in slow speed maneuvers. I'm learning to use my core more to hold me up and giving my abs a workout. I think you're videos are brilliant and the only thing I would disagree with on this bike is that it's not what I would call "flickable."

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair do's - thanks for watching and for stopping by!

[@datdudeinred]

I really liked this sort final video review(short) ... Great keep them coming.. Great job 👏❤️

[@johnDukemaster]

It is a beautiful bike indeed mr Flyer!

[@donlunn792]

I have a 2016 R1200RS.Absolutely love it.beautiful bike. Better than the two GSs that I owned before. My first one was Air cooled! Can’t say I really liked the Bike. Second was an LC. 1200 GS Much better bike.But this bike is probably the best bike I have ever owned. Not sure who is in charge! Me or the Bike. But I love it. Will I change? Possibly! , I do tend to change bikes fairly often. Not sure what I would get next.Maybe at my age, a cruiser.But which one . Or maybe a Goldwing.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good call!

[@andrewfletcher9559]

Put the subtitles on. "Hey kids, Mr Flower here" 😂😂😂 Great video as always 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you like them!

[@MrRichiban]

One thing really letting this bike down (I haven't ridden it but I have an R1250RT which should be equivalent) is the gearbox: considering how luxurious and high-tech both bikes are the gearbox really does feel like it's from a past age. Sure it has a quickshifter but it doesn't feel good to use it; unless you're riding hard the bike gives a hefty lurch when you change gear without the clutch and it just feels like you're asking the bike to do something it shouldn't do. So, yeah, the gearbox is the thing really letting the R1250 platform down, IMO, especially compared to its competitors. BMW should work hard on it in the next version!

[@russcoaus2043]

Great review as always 👍 watching for a while thank you for that

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@MrSlamphoto]

Well done. Great review. That's will be my next bike I'll place an on order for 2020 model.

[@SteveInskip]

Love that bike! I may indeed have to re-house something to get it into the garage with the other 3. Cheers Andy....thanks for that one!

[@leviefrauim1425]

Wish the damn thing wasn't so fargin' expensive- seems like a truly great bike.

[@dennisbuckley]

First the skip lorry, then the bin lorry - I thought I had skipped into a hazard perception test video :-)

[@ragerider6283]

Nice little vid & a decent bike. I think you probably summed up the main issue for a lot of people with BMW's, bar the S1000RR, as despite being amazing tools, they can seem a bit dull & uninspiring which is the last thing you want from a bike. Plus they're not cheap despite their quality. I wouldn't rule them out as brand but they wouldn't be top of my list.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough - thanks for watching!

[@vernondublin1013]

Thanks for your review. I have a GSA and am about to change and am contemplating this very bike which has led me onto this review. All that's left is a trip to my local dealer, test ride and part with some dosh.😂😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoy!

[@mrcintheuk4641]

I take my hat off to you for eking out 5 videos on this bike 😁 👍.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you...

[@X-Ray_Fox]

Greetings from France ! I tried the R1200RS a few weeks ago because I'm actually looking to buy either the RS or the GS. I'm 6'1 so naturally it wasn't the most confortable bike when you already ride adventure bikes (I have a V-Strom 800DE) but it wasn't that "bad" (no problems with my legs, mostly my wrists). And after a quick look on the internet, you could either install a handlebar riser or even change it by a more touring oriented one. And it seems that everyone who tried one of those said that the handling and riding position are now way better for long trips. And if you look well, there's actually a few on the second-hand market who already have one of those accessories installed. So it could be a good thing to tried one before choosing. I actually have no time to ride offroad and the RS would be perfect for me (and I personnaly prefer the design of the RS over the GS 😁). In any case, thanks again for your video !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@robertlee8042]

You do great reviews. It’s subtle. It’s not specs. You convey the sensations somehow. If I had to I would buy a bike that you were excited about with no more other investigation than sitting on the thing to make sure my hips didn’t ache or my arms go numb!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@frankmorris2603]

I do that. Try to will vehicles in front to go in the other direction. Never works.

[@derekiwanczuk2867]

Great review lovely bike but the prices put me off so probably going for the Triumph tiger 850 sport. Or the 900 GT pro love your reviews helps a lot of us choose our next bike cheers 👍.

[@GaryCrumrine]

Good day. I bought an 23 R1250RT late last year, and to be honest with you I am having issues with handling the weight . I have dropped it several times. Always when stopped at a light or stop sign. The bike leans farther than I can save it. I have been looking very hard at the RS. Hopefully if I can spend some time on it and gain experience that will transfer to the RT. I have ridden bikes for 50 years including sport bikes, but the weight has been a challenge to adjust to. Also the RT wants to be vertical at slow or stopped. That takes a while to get used to. Hopeing the RS will do better with a conventional front end compared to the RT's. Have a great day. Gary

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Let me know how you get on?

[@GaryCrumrine]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Will do, and thanks for getting back to me. I am getting better, have not dropped it now in 2 months, however I am still recovering from a nasty concussion I recieved from the last fall. It took me to the ground and slammed my head into the concrete. I can actually say I saw stars on that one. Thank God I had my new Shoie on tight. It would have been a lot worse without it. I have already replaced it. Not taking a chance after that hit

[@russelllocke7180]

Cheers TMF, one to view with my morning cup of tea. Teasing me again, I love it, I wanted it, but I’m TOO TALL to be comfortable. 😎👍🏍🇦🇺

[@stevelawrie9115]

BMW do make trashcan exhausts. Got a K1300S myself with a nice Arrow Exhaust.

[@InfusedBiker]

I had a test ride on one in central London in heavy traffic for two hours and it was just a behemoth in weight and it just got tiring. So if you use it for regular commute in traffic it will take a heavy toll physically. And the turning circle was just atrocious in tight traffic- no quick nipping between cars in jammed packed traffic. If the bars were higher maybe it will provide a bit more leverage in traffic, perhaps. I am eagerly awaiting the new Triumph Tiger 900 especially with weight of under 215KG

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Did you see my reveal video yesterday?

[@InfusedBiker]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I missed it. I will search for it now

[@Ruben-ni7zq]

Looking at this machine to replace my old F650GS K72. Only being 5’6” and short in the old leg the big GS is out of the question. I Like the RT but probably a bit too biased for touring for me. The RS might be just the ticket and still seems to look good with luggage on......👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes a great bike....

[@dannyracer25]

Good 2nd review Tmf lovely bike thanks from Danny

[@palantir135]

Excellent bike but...which one to buy? The RT or the RS. I prefer the RT. Knee angle is less, seating is a bit more upright, weather protection is better, better luggage capacity. Against the RT is the weight but that counts only when manually trying to move the bike and it’s more expensive. Oh well, there’s always the second hand bike from a few years old. Takes the top off the price.

[@alanaugust8853]

I was hoping someone would chime in on the RT here... I do not own either bike, but certainly have been reviewing the RT. Given the weather we currently are experiencing in northeast Wisconsin, I will likely not be test riding anything until spring. You brought up an important issue on ergonomics, hence further the position on how I’ve been favoring the RT.

[@palantir135]

Alan August I had one and while riding with the screen up, you’ll keep very dry in heavy rain.

[@triv7252]

Err the Sport Touring segment has never gone away...Kawasaki Z1000SX anyone?

[@lovelessissimo]

Many great ST bikes have gone away.

[@Martcapt]

What would be your opinions for someome 5ft6 about, perhaps with the lowered seat?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You'd definitely want it!

[@blackflagrising3716]

Same here, why are all the comments coming from 6 foot riders? Im 5’6” and wondering if the bars are too far forward

[@wazzamagoodiddlydoo]

Well done TMF! I digested every word and every second of video on this bike and now I own one! Your opinions and unbiased anaylysis made the difference mate. Now... how to ship her to Slovenia to take the Canary tour? hmmmm

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congrats on the new bike!

[@wazzamagoodiddlydoo]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Oh, forgot to mention, I got the Akro can as well (so there is a giant chrome howitzer for sale if you need one...)

[@martinfrost3596]

Nice bike. Still on my radar

[@MoraleHazard]

Perhaps a stupid question, but why are the trees still so green? Did you record this in September? Also, I'm a tall rider at 6' 3" and ride the RS. I'm a bit longer in the torso and shorter in the legs and with a Wunderlich high seat, I find it quite comfortable. One of TMF's dings that I'm in complete agreement with is the heavy steering, especially at slow speed, but I find that is more of a trade-off with high speed cornering stability.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well spotted - yes, this was recorded in late summer (I tend to record up to 3 months in advance).....

[@colberki]

I wonder if different tires like the Pirelli GT2 or Metzeler Roadtec will make a difference to to handling especially turning into a corner? I read a tires review elsewhere that the RS does a lot better than the OEM Metzeler Z8 or Pilot 4.

[@rideswithhoover9789]

Best looking bmw they have made in my opinion

[@zubinel9540]

I've been begging every bike manufacturer to make Sport Tourers again! There's so many great bikes that could be made with current engines. Especially the big parallel twins (especially 270 degree cranks) Give us a new Yamaha TRX, Honda Firestorm, BMW F900S, Suzuki TL1000S. ETC, or a load of new different models! Bring it on Yes, we have the ever brilliant VRF but a 1000 instead of the 800 and 1200 would suit best. Ducati's Super Sport is brilliant too but I want a bit of practicality. A sport tourer can do sport, comfort, practicality, lower insurance, more subtle looks, decent MPG, great luggage loading, the list goes on! I find Adventure bikes really uncomfortable. All your weight on your coccyx, the blood draining out of your arms, every acceleration means you have to tense your guts, arse, legs and arms! I don't get it, a sport tourer is so much more comfortable more of the time, your weight is distributed in various places - thighs, wrists, shoulders, some bum, and your stomach can lean into the tank. Acceleration is presumed so nicely in that position and it just stresses your body less. Bring back sport tourers!!!!

[@artmchugh5644]

Nick Bridge good point !!! I LOVED !!! My 2001 Ducati ST2. Sold it with 205.000 miles on it !!

[@seymourskinner2533]

I still regret selling my triumph sprint st.. 😤

[@oursonvie]

We planned our trip on road, but there are surprises, so in general gs is a safer choice

[@lynsmith1096]

Good summery videoTMF

[@stephenlane8366]

Why choose a GS over the RS? For me it is better comfort (as a shortie I find the bars a bit of a stretch on the RS), better visibility from the higher riding position and better road-presence from the taller bike.

[@michaelblake2862]

How short are you Stephen?

[@stephenlane8366]

@@michaelblake2862 5' 6" and I have the low-suspension model.

[@michaelblake2862]

@@stephenlane8366 Nice one mate. I'm the same height and didn't think i could comfortably ride a GS

[@stephenlane8366]

It helps that the seat is quite slim and the weight low down. You definitely try one of you can find a lowered version around.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

I think MOST modern bikes are difficult to fault, but no doubt about it, BMW certainly hit the mark with this one.

[@busterrabbit]

Great review as ever, but looking at the back of that skip lorry for most if it reminded me of one reason I left the UK, the traffic! Everywhere is so busy it's hard to enjoy any bike, certainly in a lot of England. The beautiful, quiet sweeping roads of Scotland used to be great but now Scotland is the speed camera capital of the UK, and in Wales they're really anti-bike (behind the guise of "safety") the latest ploys being arbitrary 40 MPH limits for no reason other than to take the fun out of the road for bikers, the wide open A4095 "Top Gear road" in the Brecons being just one example. Whilst there may be some leeway with speed limits, they usually need calibrated equipment to enforce so dash-cam footage isn't usually sufficient, even worse however, and very devious, are the miles of new double white lines on roads popular with bikers, even on quiet roads with no abnormal accident rate, good visibility and few junctions. Cross a solid line and you're immediately condemned by any dash-cam footage, there is no argument. The fact that the double lines may be on a straight road with good visibility and no junctions will be no defence.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about it - it's one of the reasons I try and go abroad to ride whenever I can...so much more fun! ....not to mention the weather...bah humbug!!!

[@GlenAdamson101]

I had the older r1200rs. I still miss it

[@GlenAdamson101]

One thing I didn’t like was the quick shifter I had

[@elsemm1245]

Bought a Tiger 800XRX 3 years ago to replace my Sprint ST. I've got a bad back and thought an adventure bike would be better but unfortunately it was worse - even after adjusting the seat and trying Rox risers. I like the R1250RS because I'm leaning more forward (I have test ridden one), but they're not cheap, the windscreen needs an add on and as TMF says, the sound is dull so def needs an Akropovic can. In the meantime I'm waiting to test the new Kawasaki 1000SX which hopefully arrives in Feb. Anyone else had back issues riding?

[@Secularworld60]

I totally agree with u on the riding position , i too find sitting bolt upright puts more pressure on my spine then slightly lent over . I ride an fjr and after a 10 hour ride its my brain and bum thats tired not my back

[@Miata822]

For TMF and any who cares to comment: I am looking for a touring bike for next year. I'm a big guy, 6' and 250 pounds plus gear. I live in Texas so there are long high speed miles to any place I tour. My previous Multistrada was a joy to ride in the twisties and OK on the open road, but once it had some miles on it reliability became a real problem. My next touring bike will be all about reliability. I've had good luck with Triumphs and the new Tiger 900 is definitely on the list, if not fully optimized for railing it in the twisties. The FJR and Concours are also on the list, with lots of power and protection but not so much European style handling. My impression of BMW, and experience with earlier models is that they, like the Ducati, not uncommonly suffer technical faults that only a dealer can address. Is this impression still worthy today? In 2020 I will be travelling through the desert Southwest of the US and hope to add an autumn leg up into the Atlantic Northeast. I will definitely be in locations with no BMW dealer nearby. You might say "there is no Kawasaki dealer nearby either" but Japanese bikes are known for their reliability and many generic motorcycle mechanics can work on them. All of today's bikes are more reliable than bikes of the past but all are more technically complicated. Being on a lonely mountain roadside 1,500 miles from home with a keyless ignition that refuses to recognize the key is a feeling like no other. Oh joy. No cell coverage either. FWIW, I have been touring recently on a Speed Triple R, a wonderful bike. It is a joy when I get to the destination but long highway rides are punishing day after day. For the last two years I have avoided longer rides because of this. I used to tour on an absolutely bulletproof first generation Concours. Since then I have been spoiled by European motorcycle dynamics. I wish Triumph made a sport tourer based on the Speed Triple. Don't say Tiger 1200. It's a pig. Sorry for long self indulgent post. All suggestions and comments are welcome.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well I’m biased of course...GS!

[@steve1962]

So, do all 1250 RS's come with a free skip lorry....haha........nice bike, makes a lot of sense, and BMW really have got a great machine with this one. Safe riding. Steve (BMW R1100R)

[@arabianjules]

interested to know, the difference between riding position and riding position on a VTEC VFR? is it more comfortable? more upright?......Cost, great buy used ;)

[@edinhumic2272]

What would you choose, R1250RS or SuperDuke GT? These are in my mind for next season...

[@paulcosgrove6160]

Superduke GT. With respect to TMF & BMW, no contest.

[@Roger101Watson]

Leave KTM well alone unless you like riding loan bikes because you'll rarely be on the GT. I had Duke 390 , RC 390, Duke 690, Vstrom 650, Superduke GT and that was just the first 6 months of owning my SuperdukeR.

[@paulcosgrove6160]

@@Roger101Watson Well that was a curveball! Have a 2016 SuperdukeR , no problems, 2019 Superduke GT minor electrical gremlins but sort themselves out (immobiliser glitches) so interested in your problems if you don't mind [e-mail]

[@edinhumic2272]

DeadHead sorry to hear that... what were problems?

[@Roger101Watson]

Mainly electrical including keyless ignition, fuel cap, headlight, tft display, tank (sensor) warped rotors, fuel gauge, cracked switches, refusing to start 3 times it left me stranded even the ktm badge fell off before the first service that would have been the sign but even before that it was 3 days late being ready because it wouldn't start! What made it worse was ktm and the lack of available parts. The bike was swapped after 6 months the second was better but still had issues.

[@monman8183]

Will you be taking out the Yamaha T7 for a test? Thanks for the review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I hope so Ian - it's very much on my radar (I just need to find a way of getting hold of one!)....

[@KirkBell92]

Hey TMF, I have the old R1200RS, In your opinion do you think that there are enough differencies between this and the old one to warrnt the extra cash?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Depends how you've been getting on with it - if it's only a year or two old then definitely not IMO, if it's getting long in the tooth and high mileage maybe cause to change....defo a better bike now, but a lot of money to find if you already have the older model.

[@blackflagrising3716]

Im 5’6” and growing old. I ride a 2008RT with risers now. Will a new RS be too tall and stretched out for me? Looking for a fast new bike to grow young on for a change.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nah, you’ll be fine!

[@strokenumber3]

I've always thought 'get a GS', but after watching this I am starting to think 'get as RS'. I am about to buy a new bike this January, this video just made the decision a little tougher by serving up a portion of food for thought.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry about that David - can you get a long test ride on both?

[@davidcampbell-di1xp]

I currently have a 2018 harley fatbob and want something with more features so this is on my list. How is this bike with a pillion on the back?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My guess is good!

[@jay26cee]

Never say never, TMF! I have a GS, and for the time being I am happy on road ... but i do intend to go off road at some point, just no plans yet. Also, even if it is not your intention ... you may change your mind, but then it would be too late. Did you see Schaaf's R1250RS video in the Austrian hills?! :)

[@TheFlemmo123]

Nice review of this bike, thank you for that. How would you say the riding position is campared to the vfr1200?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

From what I can remember of both - fairly similar - certainly both uprightish and comfy....

[@hedgehog3900]

I am guessing the better cornering stability comes from a smaller wider front tyre? My old vfr feels like a stable smooth barge next to my gs which turns faster but gets twitchy quicker. Edit: The why bother with a gs for road riding only question. Size. I am 6'2 and feel cramped after a couple of hours on any other style of bike.

[@johnwust9230]

Why bother, because it’s your money and nobody else’s business how you spend it.

[@fredh4641]

Hi TMF. You say the quickshifter works even smooth at low speeds, but I see you constantly using the clutch while shifting.....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Old habits die hard! I tend to ride a lot of different bike and not all of them have quickshifters....

[@AG-ti6cp]

Re the handling v the GS. Completely different front end. The GS has Telelever still and the RS is on conventional forks. So the geometry is very different

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very true....

[@magneticvision999]

Nice bike, but...£14,000 ! New bike prices these days are insane. You can get three used FJR 1300s for that, and still have money left over

[@yakekaj]

An R NineRS version would be good. For those who dont want a massive 1250 engine.

[@sophiecollins]

But the R nineT has a 1200 engine

[@yakekaj]

@Sophie Collins So it does, I don't know why I thought it was 900cc🤔

[@sophiecollins]

@@yakekaj their silly attempt to spell 90 (years) nineT, makes people think it's a 900.

[@yakekaj]

@@sophiecollins Now I get it🤦‍♂️ still think a range of 900cc RS, GS, RT would be good tho.

[@JEDIKLOTZ]

Hi, how do you switch to your iPhone while recording in your reviews? Is that a function in the GoPro app on your phone? I’m getting setup with the GoPro 7 black. Also do you use a wireless microphone? Thanks. I always enjoy your videos!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

err, I just edit the iPhone footage in my editing software...deets in the description of the kit I use...

[@JEDIKLOTZ]

I should have thought to look there!🙄

[@amc2550]

Has the screen changed since the 1200 version? Found the wind noise on that one to be quite bad

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I hadn't noticed that it had but I couldn't be 100% sure....

[@robertbates1079]

Would be nice to know how much trade in for this bike your gs would fetch. Nice machine.

[@danielcanovas341]

Do you prefer it to the fjr1300 tmf?

[@Jaffa1951]

I, too, am never sure, either, whether I can ride in that narrow lane through Wycombe.It's not marked as a 'bicycle only' lane. And, even if it were, we are riding a bike - it just happens to have a motor. £15,000 does seem expensive, but if it's fully loaded with gismos then, perhaps it's not too expensive ( don't tell BMW I said that ) Does that include the luggage and the SatNav?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What do you think! ;0)

[@Jaffa1951]

@@TheMissendenFlyer No. Am I right?

[@Jaffa1951]

If I seemed a little deluded, in my defence, I had just spent the whole day baby-sitting my two grandsons ( both 4 and under ) and was extremely tired. I might have even started dreaming before I went to bed.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

correct - not included...

[@AmenCornerRider]

Have you ridden the new R12? If yes, would you pick this RS over the R12?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The R12 what??

[@AmenCornerRider]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Sorry... the BMW R12. I think you answered question and have not ridden it yet. ☺

[@tomtraynor5384]

Considering another KTM Superduke GT (I ride the current version and think it is exceptional) with the considerably improved v.3 2021 improvements that are coming--or this? Anybody have some time or experience with both? I think out the lot the KTM will be $1000-2000 cheaper.

[@NYCZ31]

here we are 2 years later, and the RS hasn't really changed. And it might be another 2 years before it changes much, as the 1300 boxer will probably be a 2024 product and the RS will get it after the GS and RT...

[@leveneziadvm]

RS, RT or GS 1250. Good food for thought. I have a R1200RT and am 6'1". I think a GS may be a better choice for me. I'm leaning toward the GS! Thoughts?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well I’ve ridden them all and I still have a GS - need I say more?

[@leveneziadvm]

@@TheMissendenFlyer enough said

[@tecprojex]

I really like the look of the RS and prefer to my GS but being a tad larger than yourself it probably wouldn't fit me. Maybe I'll try one next time my GS is in for a service. I know you say you may consider the RS instead of your GS but BMW dealers will only offer you peanuts for your 2014 non TFT GS as the market is flooded with 1200GS's and the TFT ones only slightly higher values. If the dealer only offers you say£5-6k for your GS when it is a perfectly good capable bike, would you pay an extra £10k+ to change? Maybe a topic for future vids is the trade in value dealers offer as trade in especially on popular adventure style bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No I certainly wouldn’t change, which is why I haven’t! Love my GS and I have no plans to change it! ....and if I did I’d sell it privately....

[@OlaCurtius]

Just watched the Norway trip series and wondered why you drove a GS and not a RS

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I prefer the slightly roomier riding position....

[@andrewd7586]

Andy. Loving your reviews👍🏻 Out of this bike & the R1250RT, which would you choose for a tourer?... Isn’t the tank on this less than the RT? I’m in Australia so every extra litre counts! Cheers, Andrew, your alter ego🤪🤣

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tough one - I think I'd go for the RS as the riding position is a little more to my taste, I could change my mind tomorrow though as the RT is ace too (but looks a little bulbous at the front end for me)....

[@garypaoletta4888]

How’s the 2up riding? Wind protection? Comfort?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Didn’t try it (sorry)! But my guess is it’s pretty good…

[@petewebb6952]

Watching your videos over the years I reckon if you could only have one bike it would have to be a GS, ideally the new GS1250... Am I right?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep!

[@seymourskinner2533]

Trying to decide between this and the thruxton 1200rs. And yes I know they are very different bikes! They do have “rs” in common though🤣

[@charlesredbridge5870]

A bit like deciding whether to go to Blackpool on a holiday or Biarritz..

[@seymourskinner2533]

@@charlesredbridge5870 sure. 🙄

[@pongassassin]

How do you figure this compares to the much more affordable Ninja 1000SX (keeping in mind the latest updates, ideally - nice screen, quickshifter)? I am really intrigued by this segment but the BMW is a considerable expense.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’ve not ridden the new Kawasaki so hard to say...

[@pongassassin]

TheMissendenFlyer my understanding is it’s very similar to the 2018 you rode, with a couple tacked on features

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

If that’s the case I’d have the BMW

[@Vicks7]

If you ride with a tank bag where can you put the GPS?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good point!

[@davej3736]

Well, when coughing up that kind of cash for a bike, the market is wide open for that price point...once you have committed to spending $25,000 CDN. I would also like to comment on seat comfort and position...I am 6' even with a 32" inseam and my current ride is a modified Yamaha MT-01. Stock risers, slightly comfier bars/heated grips, and well-designed custom seat. I am seriously picky about seating position, and arse and back happiness. I am 65 years with over almost 5 decades of riding on more bikes I can count, so I'm a tad picky that way. Anyhoo, the seat was removed, the cover removed and expanded to fit an extra 3" of high-density memory foam for density and on the sides. Then a layer of hospital-grade bed-sore reducing material was put on top before the original MT-01 cover was replaced. You really can't tell the seat has been modded by looking at it...but oh my it is a joy on long trips :-) Combined with an adjustable MRA screen and wing and custom rear-set pegs, and it is a dream to ride. Ok, I've had lots of lighter and sportier bikes that flick through the twisties better, but hey, it's an "old" 1,700cc V-twin stuffed into an R1 frame, so it's "a little different" ;-) What I am NOT crazy about is distractions..as in massive screens..even little ones, that expect me to glance at...while riding a motorcycle...nope. If I ever get lost, I will just use that as an excuse to stop and stretch my legs...and pull out my phone and open my maps. Anyway, I have lower back issues..(thanks Armoured Airborne Recce/Airforce) and I find my Harleys, Honda ST, and my Tiger 800XR all claimed to be great long-distance machines, but failed to deliver...mostly to seat design and leg cramping. It is probably just me, but I find slightly forward with my lower legs slightly further back just perfect for me. Sorry...just my 2 ¢ :-) Stay safe!...and stop looking at all the gadgets! lol. Another good review...Thanks!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching and for writing that lot - Merry Christmas 🎄

[@davej3736]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Merry Christmas to you and yours as well :-) Sorry I droned on, but seating position is so critical and so overlooked. One wonders why manufacturers put so much into R&D and tech, and always overlook seating...to be clear, mine is not a big puffy looking affair, it looks almost exactly stock...but done correctly :-) Cheers!

[@hudsonrilke]

i'd have one but its just too expensive. That "commute" was annoying me :) Cars, buses pulling out urggh

[@SickBikeDude]

R1250 RS or Super Duke GT ? 🤔

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

For me the BMW - I couldn’t live with the looks of the KTM...

[@willwye410]

Fortunately riding the KTM you can’t see what it looks like and its (ahem) “dramatic” design does get it noticed so could be considered a safety feature.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...there is that....

[@SickBikeDude]

TheMissendenFlyer lol with any bike, you have to like what you’re walking up to.

[@christaylor491]

Am enjoying these daily vid's TMF, how about trying to do 365 vid's next year?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not a chance Chris!! ...but glad you're liking the daily thing, my Christmas present to you....