Timestamps: 0:00 Welcome 0:57 Comfy! First impressions 2:30 3k rpm pull 2:43 Sorry no Connected App action 3:09 It's a lot of bike... 3:36 Lets see how it rides 4:49 Bit noisy (featuring; a stone...) 5:58 How does the 21" front feel on the road 7:04 The engine (in Road mode...) 7:43 Equipped to power gadgetry 8:09 (not) off road 8:59 Check out my recent ADV bike vids :) 9:19 Some talk of the controls 9:40 Modes and the engine again (this time in Dynamic mode) 11:56 Some confusion about Hill Hold 12:23 Walkaround (featuring; Soft Ground Alert!) 15:26 Not a fan of Speedo Angels protective screens 16:06 Remember that the Ride Mode is linked to the ESA Suspension mode 17:18 The urban jungle! 18:16 Don't look 18:54 Liking it! But would I take it off road? 19:56 Clutch isn't heavy but isn't light (you're welcome) 20:20 Motorway stint (comparing Road and Dynamic too) 21:07 I'm surprised (also featuring; smoke) 23:00 Exhaust and brakes 23:39 Getting the bike on and off the centre stand (featuring; fear) 24:39 Summing up
I have the 2022 F850 GSA and with full fuel tank it certainly feels top heavy (but only gently dropped it once in parking lot u-turn on slight downhill grade even paddle walking in the turn). I actually carry an Eastbound Motowinch on the rear seat. Recently bought a 2023 R1250 R as well. It is actually 10 lbs lighter, but feels 50-70 lbs lighter due to boxer engine lower center of gravity. The F850 GSA is better for the 5+ nights moto camping (using Mosko Moto panniers and duffle). The R1250 R much more fun to ride and will be a 1-2 nights hotel stay bike (use the SW Motech Blaze Pro saddle bags).
I am 72 years old, 5ft 6INCH. I currently ride a 2017 1200gsa. I'm thinking of a change to a smaller bike. I love the gsa but it is rather heavy to maneuver when parking. Might take o look at the 850.
You may find that compared to the 1200, the 850 doesn't feel a lot lighter, plus the parallel twin engine layout may feel more top heavy than your current boxer. But then again your GSA is a big bike so I hope you do at least take a look at the 850. It also might be worth taking a look at the Moto Guzzi V85 TT
I have a 2023 BMW 850 GS. I too find the throttle response difference between Road & Dynamic mode very noticeable. First reviewer that has noticed this big difference and/or commented on it. Much more than the difference i ever felt on three previous 1200/1250 bikes. While the 850 has plenty of giddy-up in Road mode, changing to Dynamic gives the impression it has just become a 1000cc engine. Impressive. But i find Dynamic mode a bit too 'dynamic' when riding on tight twisty roads and Road mode is much more progressive and controllable and just better (for me). The engines are mechanically noisy which is a let down imo, but they have proved to be reliable for the length of time they have been used in the 850 models. The exhaust has a nice mellow, deep sound when throttle is applied and again when throttle closed coming into corners etc. Could be a tad louder for me as i wear earplugs to deal with wind & engine noise. Helmet communicators work much better using ear plugs with the extraneous noises reduced. Over-all i like the bike and do not miss the bigger engines or bikes. Though the 850 GS is heavier & taller than i would like it to be. The bike works good off-road as well, especially with forks that have absolutely no adjust-ability of any kind. They can be improved at a cost but not sure warranted for the riding i do.
Enjoyed this review a lot. I owned one of the early f850gs models and it’s still my favourite bike to date, better to me than the mt10 I owned and all the others. The engine belies it’s power figures and was actually genuinely quick, especially up to three figures, that combined with the plush suspension made it likely the quickest cross country bike I’ve owned, especially on our British A and B roads. The price is a bit salty once you get into the options but as said, you get a lot for the money. How does it compare to the 1050 v strom you rode recently?
I'm also sure that I would come to appreciate the bike even more if I were to be able to ride it for a longer period of time. The comparison to the Vstrom is a tricky one... the Suzuki is also quick, more torquey and has a very smooth engine. Goes rounds bends well too (as a road bike since I never took either them up a green lane). I'd have to try one with a lower seat though as the standard seat height kinda spoiled the experience for me a bit. I like the ergonomics of the BMW a little more as the riding position isn't as rangy as the Suzuki. Not a clear winner between the two as it stands!
Great review of a bike I recently bought - love the imposing size and the fantastic tank size and range - 300 miles on a tank. Like you I was very pleasantly surprised at the difference between road and dynamic modes. First bike I have had with such a real noticeable difference between the modes. I also love the TFT and the tech it comes with
Thank you for your feedback! It's certainly a Big Bike and no mistake... I thought that the engine might struggle to pull the weight of the bike effectively but it performs really well! Would you be taking yours off road?
I tested the África Twin, the v85tt, the tracer, the f900xr, and a lot others. This One just smokes them all. The Africa has more power yes.... But confusing menus and is more expensive.. the F850GSA WON. I HAVE FOR A YEAR and AM in love. Also Zero mechanichals
Very impressive bike, I understand the thing with the weight, my Versys 1000 is 257kg, and it can be a bit much sometimes! I loved the make-do side stand puk! 😂😅 excellent video Rikky as always 👍
Im working towards my full licence (Mod 1 and Mod 2 end of the month) and Im considering one of these as a first bike (Honda CB650R is other consideration). Im tall, 6'4" so I have to factor this into chosing a bike
Hi Rikky, nice video, nice bike and it does actually look quite nice.... question: would you think about getting one next year ? or are you going to wait and see what the new R1300 range offers ( R, RS, RT, GS and GSA) Carl
Hi Carl, thanks for dropping in 😊 It's gotta be the new 1300 range for me! Unfortunately I have unrealistic expectations of the next boxer (I want BMW to somehow lose 20kg off each bike haha) so I'll probably be a bit disappointed! But to coincide with the 100th anniversary it's sure to be something special! I hope you and yours are well, I'll PM you soon 😊
Ive got mine on July, I live in Tennessee, USA. It was hot and I’ve noticed that at certain point the bike was burning both of my legs, which was very uncomfortable, so I had to lift up both of them. I’m a 5in 3” and 115 lb person so I’ve been thinking to change it for a GS 750, I sat on one once and it really fits me. Have anyone noticed the same? Or there’s something wrong with my bike? Thanks in advance.
Sorry but I would never want to own one. To me it represents everything that is wrong with modern motorcycle design. Ugly, too heavy, too many gadgets and under all the bling conceptually bland.
I have a 1200 air cooled GS without ABS, my second, and agree with your comment. I don’t rely on electronics to reach my journeys end safely. So many people rely on electronics to keep their bikes rubber side down. Look at the statistics, motorcycle accidents are not reducing dramatically as a result of these magical life saving gadgets. I have little respect for reviews from motorcyclists whilst riding, concentrate on the road. The gps in my car will not allow you to amend the route whilst the car is in motion and in my view that is a positive feature. I for one do not look for a handlebar adorned with a multitude of switches to distract on a motorcycle. Each to their own of course but being professionally trained to ride transfers abs to your right wrist and rear wheel spin also. Why is it necessary to adjust your suspension whilst on the move? I await the flack with some enthusiasm, always enjoy a good laugh. That will surprise a few cynics. That said but what else would you talk about at The Greasy Spoon whilst taking a picture of the Full English to post later on FB to a multitude of disinterested parties? Ride safely everyone.
Nice review I have several BMW’s they all change the suspension settings when changing mode but can as you know be changed with the suspension button. I’ve tried screen protectors from Speedo angels, didn’t like the nano ones but all TFT’s have the tempered glass non reflective. Unlike the others you have no issues with air bubbles it’s just lay it on and it adheres by itself with a little pressure just to finish it off. Makes the TFT much better and stops the water marks that seem to appear regularly on the screen.
I wanted 850 GSA but sat on few and was so hard to stand up. Went for 850 GS as was a bit easier. Tip - turn handlebars fully right and comes off sidestand easier
Since past 6 months At age 50 i am back on the bike after 30 years.. Bought a cheap honda 350. Close to 190kgs + fuel and got used to the weight. Do u think one will get used to a heavier bike with time..? Like a bike like 850gs और Even 1250gs? I am bored of the 350 retro which behaves like a refined royal Enfield. And I need something with better acceleration. Limited options in my region. Just 850 and 1250gs No ktms No tigers No suzuki 650's / 800's Honda 500x and Africa twin will be available only in 2024. Mild possibility of 7 transalp as well. The thing is that do I wanna wait for so long Or buy something now. In june 2023
Hi there, thanks for your comment and question. What I think happens is that people go through stages in their bike ownership. So yes I think you can and will get used to the weight of either Tue 850 or 1250 GS (as you know their isn't much difference between them anyway) but after some time of ownership you might want to go the other way and get something lighter. Anyway both bikes are easy to ride so I think you go for it 😊
This one to me Rikky looks a lot neater than it's big brother the 1250 and dare I say better looking although as you say it is heavy these aren't really my thing but it doesn't look bad to me I can't help but wonder where is that weight coming from daft as it may seem . 😉👌👍
You are right khaki colour really horrible a Matt finish on it.2024 900 GSA has very poor colour choices too black or silver the silver is a Matt finish too looks like they forgot to finish painting it.the granite grey metallic on the 850 GSA was by far the nicest colour not available anymore .jq
I own the R1250R Roadster model... that is actually a bit lighter than the 850 GSA but I am also on record saying that I wish my bike weighed less too 😀
Yes I thought with having the dreaded prostate cancer and my tiger xca getting heavier and heavier I thought about a smaller bmw tractor but unlike my old 1200 it seems even more top heavy than the that or the Tiger so I will stick with that bike my tiger I mean
Timestamps:
0:00 Welcome
0:57 Comfy! First impressions
2:30 3k rpm pull
2:43 Sorry no Connected App action
3:09 It's a lot of bike...
3:36 Lets see how it rides
4:49 Bit noisy (featuring; a stone...)
5:58 How does the 21" front feel on the road
7:04 The engine (in Road mode...)
7:43 Equipped to power gadgetry
8:09 (not) off road
8:59 Check out my recent ADV bike vids :)
9:19 Some talk of the controls
9:40 Modes and the engine again (this time in Dynamic mode)
11:56 Some confusion about Hill Hold
12:23 Walkaround (featuring; Soft Ground Alert!)
15:26 Not a fan of Speedo Angels protective screens
16:06 Remember that the Ride Mode is linked to the ESA Suspension mode
17:18 The urban jungle!
18:16 Don't look
18:54 Liking it! But would I take it off road?
19:56 Clutch isn't heavy but isn't light (you're welcome)
20:20 Motorway stint (comparing Road and Dynamic too)
21:07 I'm surprised (also featuring; smoke)
23:00 Exhaust and brakes
23:39 Getting the bike on and off the centre stand (featuring; fear)
24:39 Summing up
I have the 2022 F850 GSA and with full fuel tank it certainly feels top heavy (but only gently dropped it once in parking lot u-turn on slight downhill grade even paddle walking in the turn). I actually carry an Eastbound Motowinch on the rear seat. Recently bought a 2023 R1250 R as well. It is actually 10 lbs lighter, but feels 50-70 lbs lighter due to boxer engine lower center of gravity. The F850 GSA is better for the 5+ nights moto camping (using Mosko Moto panniers and duffle). The R1250 R much more fun to ride and will be a 1-2 nights hotel stay bike (use the SW Motech Blaze Pro saddle bags).
I am 72 years old, 5ft 6INCH. I currently ride a 2017 1200gsa. I'm thinking of a change to a smaller bike. I love the gsa but it is rather heavy to maneuver when parking. Might take o look at the 850.
You may find that compared to the 1200, the 850 doesn't feel a lot lighter, plus the parallel twin engine layout may feel more top heavy than your current boxer. But then again your GSA is a big bike so I hope you do at least take a look at the 850.
It also might be worth taking a look at the Moto Guzzi V85 TT
I have a 2023 BMW 850 GS. I too find the throttle response difference between Road & Dynamic mode very noticeable. First reviewer that has noticed this big difference and/or commented on it. Much more than the difference i ever felt on three previous 1200/1250 bikes. While the 850 has plenty of giddy-up in Road mode, changing to Dynamic gives the impression it has just become a 1000cc engine. Impressive.
But i find Dynamic mode a bit too 'dynamic' when riding on tight twisty roads and Road mode is much more progressive and controllable and just better (for me).
The engines are mechanically noisy which is a let down imo, but they have proved to be reliable for the length of time they have been used in the 850 models.
The exhaust has a nice mellow, deep sound when throttle is applied and again when throttle closed coming into corners etc. Could be a tad louder for me as i wear earplugs to deal with wind & engine noise. Helmet communicators work much better using ear plugs with the extraneous noises reduced.
Over-all i like the bike and do not miss the bigger engines or bikes. Though the 850 GS is heavier & taller than i would like it to be.
The bike works good off-road as well, especially with forks that have absolutely no adjust-ability of any kind. They can be improved at a cost but not sure warranted for the riding i do.
Enjoyed this review a lot. I owned one of the early f850gs models and it’s still my favourite bike to date, better to me than the mt10 I owned and all the others. The engine belies it’s power figures and was actually genuinely quick, especially up to three figures, that combined with the plush suspension made it likely the quickest cross country bike I’ve owned, especially on our British A and B roads.
The price is a bit salty once you get into the options but as said, you get a lot for the money. How does it compare to the 1050 v strom you rode recently?
I'm also sure that I would come to appreciate the bike even more if I were to be able to ride it for a longer period of time. The comparison to the Vstrom is a tricky one... the Suzuki is also quick, more torquey and has a very smooth engine. Goes rounds bends well too (as a road bike since I never took either them up a green lane). I'd have to try one with a lower seat though as the standard seat height kinda spoiled the experience for me a bit. I like the ergonomics of the BMW a little more as the riding position isn't as rangy as the Suzuki. Not a clear winner between the two as it stands!
If it had a shaft drive……..
I bet it rides lovely but it's definately NOT a looker for me! And WAY too heavy.
Great review of a bike I recently bought - love the imposing size and the fantastic tank size and range - 300 miles on a tank. Like you I was very pleasantly surprised at the difference between road and dynamic modes. First bike I have had with such a real noticeable difference between the modes. I also love the TFT and the tech it comes with
Thank you for your feedback! It's certainly a Big Bike and no mistake... I thought that the engine might struggle to pull the weight of the bike effectively but it performs really well! Would you be taking yours off road?
@@RikkyTang No Rikky I just need a large bike with loads of legroom as I have arthritic knees ! 😂
I take mine offroad. Seriously offroading. And no problems whatsoever
RikkyTang does this bike have much vibrations through the bars at all, at any speeds ??
I tested the África Twin, the v85tt, the tracer, the f900xr, and a lot others. This One just smokes them all. The Africa has more power yes.... But confusing menus and is more expensive.. the F850GSA WON. I HAVE FOR A YEAR and AM in love. Also Zero mechanichals
Oh. And it is beautiful!!
Very impressive bike, I understand the thing with the weight, my Versys 1000 is 257kg, and it can be a bit much sometimes! I loved the make-do side stand puk! 😂😅 excellent video Rikky as always 👍
Yeah sometimes you have to improvise! My R1250R is heavy enough and i dont really want to go any heavier... Thank you very much Mr. Biker sir 🙏 😊
really good review. thank you.
Thank you! ☺️
Im working towards my full licence (Mod 1 and Mod 2 end of the month) and Im considering one of these as a first bike (Honda CB650R is other consideration). Im tall, 6'4" so I have to factor this into chosing a bike
Hi Rikky, nice video, nice bike and it does actually look quite nice.... question: would you think about getting one next year ? or are you going to wait and see what the new R1300 range offers ( R, RS, RT, GS and GSA)
Carl
Hi Carl, thanks for dropping in 😊 It's gotta be the new 1300 range for me! Unfortunately I have unrealistic expectations of the next boxer (I want BMW to somehow lose 20kg off each bike haha) so I'll probably be a bit disappointed! But to coincide with the 100th anniversary it's sure to be something special! I hope you and yours are well, I'll PM you soon 😊
Ive got mine on July, I live in Tennessee, USA. It was hot and I’ve noticed that at certain point the bike was burning both of my legs, which was very uncomfortable, so I had to lift up both of them.
I’m a 5in 3” and 115 lb person
so I’ve been thinking to
change it for a GS 750, I sat on one once and it really fits me.
Have anyone noticed the same? Or there’s something wrong with my bike?
Thanks in advance.
Sorry but I would never want to own one. To me it represents everything that is wrong with modern motorcycle design. Ugly, too heavy, too many gadgets and under all the bling conceptually bland.
Still they sell well by all accounts, so it goes to show that "one man's meat is another man's poison"
@@RikkyTang Absolutely. So what do I know?
🤣
I have a 1200 air cooled GS without ABS, my second, and agree with your comment. I don’t rely on electronics to reach my journeys end safely. So many people rely on electronics to keep their bikes rubber side down. Look at the statistics, motorcycle accidents are not reducing dramatically as a result of these magical life saving gadgets. I have little respect for reviews from motorcyclists whilst riding, concentrate on the road. The gps in my car will not allow you to amend the route whilst the car is in motion and in my view that is a positive feature. I for one do not look for a handlebar adorned with a multitude of switches to distract on a motorcycle.
Each to their own of course but being professionally trained to ride transfers abs to your right wrist and rear wheel spin also. Why is it necessary to adjust your suspension whilst on the move?
I await the flack with some enthusiasm, always enjoy a good laugh. That will surprise a few cynics.
That said but what else would you talk about at The Greasy Spoon whilst taking a picture of the Full English to post later on FB to a multitude of disinterested parties?
Ride safely everyone.
Nice review I have several BMW’s they all change the suspension settings when changing mode but can as you know be changed with the suspension button. I’ve tried screen protectors from Speedo angels, didn’t like the nano ones but all TFT’s have the tempered glass non reflective. Unlike the others you have no issues with air bubbles it’s just lay it on and it adheres by itself with a little pressure just to finish it off. Makes the TFT much better and stops the water marks that seem to appear regularly on the screen.
I wanted 850 GSA but sat on few and was so hard to stand up.
Went for 850 GS as was a bit easier. Tip - turn handlebars fully right and comes off sidestand easier
Way, way too heavy.
Thanks for the review. I rode a Rallye edition yesterday and really enjoyed it.
That is great to hear 😊
WOW... intense deep sound! Beautiful!!!
Since past 6 months At age 50 i am back on the bike after 30 years..
Bought a cheap honda 350. Close to 190kgs + fuel and got used to the weight.
Do u think one will get used to a heavier bike with time..?
Like a bike like 850gs और Even 1250gs?
I am bored of the 350 retro which behaves like a refined royal Enfield.
And I need something with better acceleration.
Limited options in my region.
Just 850 and 1250gs
No ktms
No tigers
No suzuki 650's / 800's
Honda 500x and Africa twin will be available only in 2024. Mild possibility of 7 transalp as well.
The thing is that do I wanna wait for so long
Or buy something now.
In june 2023
Hi there, thanks for your comment and question. What I think happens is that people go through stages in their bike ownership. So yes I think you can and will get used to the weight of either Tue 850 or 1250 GS (as you know their isn't much difference between them anyway) but after some time of ownership you might want to go the other way and get something lighter. Anyway both bikes are easy to ride so I think you go for it 😊
Sharp short double pull on the front brake (or set to 3 degree incline detection) for hill hold?
Sorry mate. I owned one after down sizing from a 1250 GSA. wasn’t impressed. Switched to KTM1290 SAR. KTM
is easier to pick up.
Thank you for the information! How's the KTM working out for you so far?
Great video thanks, I'm mulling over making this my second ever bike. 6ft 3 rider, currently have a CB500X looking to progress to this. Thank you.
You Will love it
That’s the same as my bike except I have standard seat. I love it
Do bmw still do left indicator on left handlebar and right indicator on the right bar...?
Nope
Hi, how tall are you? I am 6'2" 240lbs I think this bike is definitely my size.
I am 5'7" and under 180lbs... yes this is your kinda bike 😁
This one to me Rikky looks a lot neater than it's big brother the 1250 and dare I say better looking although as you say it is heavy these aren't really my thing but it doesn't look bad to me I can't help but wonder where is that weight coming from daft as it may seem . 😉👌👍
I have the same thoughts Mal, impressive bike but pretty weighty!
Will be picking one in another couple of months 😊
Good to hear! 🤗
Of course. The logical🫧 option
Excellent review mate!
Thank you, glad you liked it ☺️
Am I correct is thinking there is no colour option other than the khaki for the Adv model? Tbphwy I don't really like it.
According to the BMW Configurator (in the UK anyway) you can also get the Adventure in Light White and Triple Black
You are right khaki colour really horrible a Matt finish on it.2024 900 GSA has very poor colour choices too black or silver the silver is a Matt finish too looks like they forgot to finish painting it.the granite grey metallic on the 850 GSA was by far the nicest colour not available anymore .jq
nice! you’re a happy fella! always cheer me up! 👏🙏🏼
Always! 😁
You find it heavy ....didn't you say you own an R1250GS? :)
I own the R1250R Roadster model... that is actually a bit lighter than the 850 GSA but I am also on record saying that I wish my bike weighed less too 😀
@@RikkyTang Okay. Got it. :)
Seems a heavy bike though
You're not wrong - it helps to be a big and strong rider... unfortunately I am neither!
Yes I thought with having the dreaded prostate cancer and my tiger xca getting heavier and heavier I thought about a smaller bmw tractor but unlike my old 1200 it seems even more top heavy than the that or the Tiger so I will stick with that bike my tiger I mean
Do you think this is a ike a begginer could ride after passing the bike test ?