I bought a Tiger GT Explorer in 2022 in Lucerne Blue and this is my experience : jerky driveshaft, too soft suspension even in hardest mode, vibrations in mirrors, not enough ground clearance when cornering, despite weight loss compared to the previous Tigers still gravity point too high, the feel of the clutch is like a dry clutch and not as a hydraulic one. As a matter of fact, I have had two clutch issues in less than 6000 miles : an air bulb formed into the hydraulic system causing almost a standstill : I couldn't almost shift gear anymore and it was very hard to get it in neutral. Clutch lever got very hard (stiff) as well and the travel became worrying . They purged two times at the dealership ( first time at 3000 miles, second time at 6000). My confidence in the bike is lost somewhere. Although the engine is not top compared to the GS, KTM or Ducati, it sounds nice and the quickshifter is smooth ... and fast enough to me. Next purchase somewhere in the future : again a GS, a 1300 of course after having had three 1200 GSes ! But despite this rather negative statement, I enjoy riding it and shall keep it for some time !
I had a 2023 tiger Gt explorer and apparently that bike vibrated more than the others. It had better brakes, better suspension and a better seat. I'm not alone you will find so many with under 1500 miles in dealer show rooms. It cost me almost 10k to make the jump not something I wanted to do@@Kevimoto
I have 2023 Tiger 1200GT Explorer, I installed Evotech bar ends, Grip puppies and DNK Tuneworks ECU map and the bike is smooth fast and really comfortable. I am 6'2" 205 lbs.
Our tunes include: Removal of top-speed limiter on all models Increased redline specific to each model Optimization of AFR on full throttle Optimization of timing under full throttle Greatly reduced deceleration popping entirely in all modes Optimization of fueling based on Power Commander Maps and Dyno Testing Recurved throttle mapping and rider modes for a more engaging experience Optimized AFR in cruise and low throttle for driveability (no more stalling or snatch ever again) Enable/Disable Secondary Air Injection Enable/Disable O2 Sensors No more cold start/stalling issues Remove power/throttle limiters on certain models Speedometer correction on certain models Enable Cruise Control on models with optional Cruise Control
I waited for the 1300 GS to come out. I even went to the US unveiling in Birmingham. I really liked and wanted the bike, but I bought the Tiger 1200 GT PRO. I really liked the Tiger, too, and it was 18k out the door new vs. 30k+ for the BMW. I'm in the middle of a 7k cross country trip with the Tiger. Cold, rain, snow, dirt, sand, winds... It's done great! The only complaint would be grip vibes when riding 80mph+ roads. Luckily, I'm in cruise control then and have a light grip. I also rarely travel those types of roads.
I bought an ex demo Tiger GT Pro for well under 14k last March - sweetened the deal with upper / lower crash bars and a heated seat plus an additional years warranty. Paying through the nose for a brand new bike these days just doesn’t make any sense, PCP is a bit of a rip off also. I considered the old GS1250 but the dealers just wouldn’t move on price or do a deal, unlike Triumph, so that swayed it for me. Both great bikes, pro’s and con’s for both, but for me the riding experience was better on the Triumph just like you said - exciting
27600 miles on a 1200 Rally Pro and vibrations are an after thought, although I never did get along with the abrupt throttle, until after a 20000 mile service; it was smoother, I don't know what they did, but fueling is now smoother. Sport Mode is the only thing that reminds me of the way things were - and Sporty throttle is not at all miserable.
Backlit switches mean the BMW would always lose for me. Plus the Triumph is just so much more fun to ride and it is very comfortable on long motorway journeys. It ticks more boxes for me, but as with all the opinions here, mine are subjective and suit me. The GS will always have fans for the same reason. Great video as ever. Ride free and safe.
I own a GT Explorer and I just had a ride on the GS1300.. To be fair, I should compare it to the upcoming GS Adventure but as is I do have to say the GS1300 is a truly remarkable machine. The new engine makes it feel at least as brisk as the Tiger 1200, the suspension is on the firmer side compared to the Tiger but still comfortable. It retains the typical sublime balance the GS is known for but there are differences. The GS foot pegs are further up and further back compared to the old GS and Tiger so you do sit a bit more cramped on it. Half of the bike is gone so it doesn’t give you that king-of-the-road-feel anymore. It’s a hell of a lot smaller than the 1250 and Tiger. The stock wind protection is better on the GS than on the Tiger. The Quick Shifter isn’t good at all in my opinion. It shifts really jerky but the engine is a lot smoother with less vibrations. All in all, the GS feels sportier but isn’t due to some things like the telelever front suspension giving you less front wheel feel and it is a lot smaller. I do sit more relaxed on the Tiger with its riding triangle and the suspension is softer on the Tiger. If you ride them back to back, most will have an extremely hard time choosing. Reliability I would say is on pair at the moment.
I ended up with the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer. It’s just fun to drive and makes me giddy when you twist the throttle. There will always be pros and cons when comparing bikes however it’s most important to choose a ride you connect with. The quick shifter on the Triumph is butter smooth and makes shifting super fun. Because of the two tier seat heights, my wife can see over my head when she’s riding as pillion. It’s way less neck strain for longer trips. This bike is a transformer. Switching between the modes you can cruz with soft suspension, sport mode tightens up the front end and increases throttle response, and off road lowers the suspension turning it into a giant dirt bike. You’re able to customize all of the modes. This bike is so much fun. Lastly maintenance intervals is every 10k for Triumph and every 6k for BMW.
I had a 2013 Tiger 800XC for my 1st bike which I loved. I test rode the 2014 Tiger 1200 and hated it. I bought a brand new R1200GSA with all additional tech and it was my favourite bike (also had a Ducati DVT multistrada and GL1800). I've now got a 2023 Triumph Bonneville T100 which is great for day trips out on country roads but this new GS really has me salivating and I'm struggling justify waiting a year to see how reliable it is (my Ducati was brand new in 2015 and was in the dealers for 8 months of the 1st year with 14 different issues and I swore I'd never buy a mark 1 new bike ever again).
@@GrandSolarEclipse Well if by rich you mean I study hard, solve complex migraine-inducing problems, work long hours in a stressful job, and save every penny possible to support my motorcycling passion. Then yes, I suppose you are right!
Tried both with a view to buying, I didn't like the T-plane triple in the Tiger, it's lost the smoothness of the old 1200, and felt really lumpy and agricultural at low revs, I liked the engine on the BMW, but found the handling a bit strange, a bit understeery in corners, and lazy and unresponsive, and very expensive onced speced up, looking forward to a ride on the new Stelvio.
The BMW isn’t “understeery” in corners in the slightest. It’s planted and easy to throw about (maybe not if your 80) The BMW price is the same within a few ££ as every other in the segment . The triumph not that i’m a fan at all is a smooth and better bike than many give it credit for. The tech on the triumph is a bit poor and ebay like but they are improving. In reference to the guzzi vs any of the two about is comical there are light years ahead of that bike.
Great comparison Rob. So cool to be able to ride both back to back. For me I’d have to go the GS because my uncle has one and he’s ridden them around the world. Plus I’ve always loved those stonking and smooth boxer engines that stick out the side like they don’t care.
I am currently considering one of these two bikes. I currently have a Tiger 800. Great bike but there are things I don’t like, sound and brakes. I have rode a BMW 1150, 1200 and 1250 and thought they were way better. I will think I will give the BMW a go. Thanks for the Video. It was very informative and unbiased.
My dude, I had an 800xc for 6 years and jumped to the 1200 rally pro. Truth is the old inline 3cyl whine gets old after a while, this new discrete and "agricultural" sound on T Planes is very relaxing while cruising but it roars so nice after 7k rpm. I wonder why you don't like the brakes, they are Stylemmas, the top of the top from Brembo.
OK I ride a 2013 BMW R1200gsa. And I have 5 friends that owned tiger 900 and 1200. Every one of the tigers were totaled on their 1st or 2nd crashes.. and minor crashes! Now not to say you shouldn't crash your bike but were talking off road.. I ride hard 52 years experience on and off road. I've crashed the bike several times. And all I've had as damage was repainted the valve guard covers. The triumphs are awesome bikes. Just don't crash.. lol. I love my BMW r1200gsa and believe it's as bullet proof as a motorcycle can be. I'm also a motorcycle tech of 50 + years experience too.. I don't agree with this guy.. sorry. Triumph is more a street machine. BMW is both . And electronics are are something that will leave you stranded in the outback.. too many electronics to break.. it's ridiculous.
That’s a weird take.. say what you will, but these are 2 of the best motorcycles in their class. BMW is more on road biased, but the Tiger 1200 Rally is a seriously capable off-road bike. As far as bikes that handle both on road and off road, they are hard to beat. Royal enfield is great and definitely lighter off-road, but not as powerful as these 2 for those longer highway rides.
@@theguitarhero898 check the new himalayan 450. good for real off road/adventure/miles munching on motorways/everyday use. People on heavy bikes are gonna downsize more in the future. I don’t want to lift a GS by myself anymore up in the mountains. Totally unsuitable for this kind of travelling. But most of GS rider don’t leave the tarmac.
Hey there Moto Bob Wish you could make detailed comparison between the new tiger 1200 rally explorer and the new BMW 1300 gsa. Would be great to hear it from a pro like you. Looking forward for the video
the weight is a myth I came from 850-1250 and the weight is nothing to get excited about the 1250 hides it lower and feels miles better to move around. The 850 was ok but didn’t have enough balls for me.
Rode both this week with the Triumph being the updated 2024 model. GS is a great bike and if you want to waft around in comfort in relative silence then thats the one to choose, if you want a more engaging characterful grin factor bikers bike then the Triumph wins hands down, so much so i immediately ordered the new GT Pro 😂
Have ridden a few BMW boxers over the years and not really liked them until the 1250 came out. That is a great motor and I assume the 1300 is at least as good. I've ended up with a GT Explorer and am really enjoying it as my comfortable tourer (I have a T7 for the dirty stuff). Digging the T-plane (and that rasp you spoke of) and the handling is fantastic on our crappy roads. Also appreciate that the only farkles I've had to buy are a tank bag and a GPS bracket (actually a mate helped make the bracket). Also enjoying the onboard tech. ACC would have been nice.
There are currently really good deals on left over tigers and atleast on my market you can get Tiger for 10k€ cheaper than your new average r1300gs. Remember base price BMW's dont exists. Except for their g310 series
tiger has all crash protection as standard? if so then you need to add about 15kg to the BM, also, did BM do the sneaky trick of reducing fuel capacity on the 1300? I know they have on other models to make them appear lighter....
The main fun quotient of Tiger 🐯 1200 is inline triple engine with T plane crank which results in storm of torque at the rear shaft driven wheel while BMW 1300 gs flat twin popularly known as boxer engine with shift cam technology is famous for smooth torque delivery at the shaft driven rear wheel.
Great video & I concur it's a very personal choice, with the 1160 Speed RS derived engine now fitted in the Tiger 1200. I'm extremely disappointed Triumph have persisted with the vibey offbeat T plane crank rather than the smoother 120 degree firing order in the Speed RS, so despite being a long time Triumph owner & road sports tour rider i'll be choosing the V4S Multistrada !
The GT Pro would have been a better comparison for the 1300GS which lets face it is hardly ever going to go off road. The GT Pro is a grand cheaper, plus there are keener deals on the Tiger because Triumph owners rightfully expect a manufacturer to work for it's money. The 1300GS does seem a good bike but it seems to be having an identity crisis, is it an adventure bike or not?..... Also re. weight, be interesting to know how they stack up when fully loaded. Also how they cope with a pillion. As you've probably gathered I'm a 2023 GT Pro owner and I love it!
I think the quoted weight on the GS is in bare form. Once you add bits and pieces to make it a 1250 equivalent that most would choose then it gets much closer to the 1250 weight.
Waited so long for the 13 so I could have a great laugh at the looks. And have you seen the 'Adventure'?! Absolutely hilarious. Triumph has nothing to worry about.
Would be good to do this again when the GS Adventure is launched in a few months .. more like for like .. but at the end of the day they are all fantastic bikes .. Enjoyed your review very much ..
😂😂😂😂😂ffs another switchgear bandwagon passenger. Never ever have I even considered this on any bike and never once have I in the dark had to pull over because I didn’t know where the indicators were. It’s a fad argument which internet bikers want to have.
@@colinkirk3250 Feel works when you only have a horn, turn signals and a high beam switch! Lighted switchgear is a convenience that is nice to have on a high end bike with more than 3 switches.
BMW 1300 gs has reliability issues:main contactor relay with corrosion;oil leak from the gear box seal;luggage contactors default and so on;even if T1200 had mapping issues,for the price I 'd definitly go for the Triumph;you see less on the road and owners are more friendly when they meet me on my transalp 750
Interesting you thought the Tiger was more aggressive when riding, but it looks like you had the GS in 'Road' mode - did you feel this was still the case when the GS was in Dynamic mode?
These comments crack me up. Some good natured razzing. Some not so much. As far as I'm concerned, we're splitting hairs. No way to lose with either one.
On px comparison you d need to compare a gs adventure when it arrives with the explorer rally. Otherwise it is not like for like. A base gt pro vs the gs, Triumph much cheaper. 2 years used, like for like (with the 1250 gs), Triumph is like 40% less.
I did demo rides on two different Tiger models last summer. I found the electronics on those to be absolutely garbage. The radiators are mounted on each side of the gas tank. This makes crash bars around the tank an absolute must. Otherwise, you are running the risk of braking your radiator fans if you lay your bike down. It also felt top heavy. I do not know, I really did not like the Tigers at all. I was a lot more happier on a 1250GS. Neither of them I was able to take off road. Hopefully I can hop on a 1300 one day
How often do people adjust windscreens? Only time I move it is from going to/from dirt and in that case it's a simple hand flick to move it. It seems an overkill to make it powered.
Depends on the bike, if it's easy like on Tiger or Multi, I adjust it every time I speed up or slow down over ~70 km/h, original BMW had a knob you had to turn and it was on right hand which was quite annoying although there are worse (especially those that require a screwdriver to adjust).
@@shegocrazy under roughly that speed, the wind noise is not that loud and I prefer getting some ventilation, above that it feels too much and I would rather block it 🙂
Nice side by side comparison. If I can give some feedback, it would be nice to have a cost of ownership comparison. For example how often service and oil changes are necessary. If BMW is so much cheaper to service than a Triumph? And so on. By the way, the 2025 Tigers are out and in stores. Can you make a clip on the new 900 and new 1200? Cheers from Sweden
The more you have the more that can fail. And if your short in the leg and the GS doesn't lower you could have a problem. The one thing I really like the the GS is the SOS button and can't understand why others don't have it as this could really be a life saver 😢
I have a Tiger 1200 Rally Exp and you forgot to mention that the Tiger forces you to come to a complete stop whenever you change riding modes from road to off-road and back. Totally drives you crazy after a day of watching you mates on other Adv bikes continually into the distance every time the surface changes. Come on Triumph pull your finger out in this one and fix it up via software!!
I have test rode the GS1300 but it just doesn’t work for me.... I can not really spot why but it is what it is. I think I miss a bit of fun factor with the GS. Nothing is wrong with it, but I don’t like the feeling. My current bike is KTM 1290 Adventure R, that must be the explanation 🤔
Just in case either BMW or Triumph's R&D look in here . I look forward to the day The Tiger900 has a shaft drive and is up against a R80 GS with the telilever suspension ... 250 mile range on a slightly lower HP / Torque bike (that can ride on low test :) ,, Thanks for these Rob always a pleasure .. I know you get a lot of comments so don't mind the broken record you keep getting from one fan in New England .. Yours Guy
On my third gs1200 im being swayed due to the panniers would swap easy to a 1250. Personnely id love a Vstrom 1050 its cheaper and loaded with extras. Only snag is chain but im willing to change
What about offroad ability? They’re supposed to be adventure bikes. Did a lot of dirt roads, sand, mountain trails with 1200 ADV/ 1250s, the boxer engine just gives you supreme control and stability. If my journey might include unpaved roads, I’d always go for a GS. Though I like the tiger’s looks much better.
Be good to see a proper weigh in, ie. Both on proper scales and both full of fuel. My bet is, we see a different story. Both great bikes. Buy the one you like and let others enjoy their choice.
The Rallys have 21" front wheels, whereas the BMW uses a 19". You can also get a 19" front wheel on the Triumph, if you'd like. For the Triumph, you can adjust the seat lower and there is an even lower seat available. You can also lower the suspension on the Tiger by 20mm by pushing and holding the home button.
I think the T-plane is bit of a poor choice from Triumph. Surely, you buy a triple because it's smooth - so making a triple less smooth to make it more like a twin counters it's selling point and just puts it more in the firing line of people who might be weighing up a GS?
I think the GS has had its day, although the new R1300 is still a mighty fine bike (if a little ugly) BMW are starting to run into the limitations of the boxer twin configuration, you can only up capacity so much in the pursuit of power. Tech wise the new 1300 brings nothing new to the table we've not seen before from other manufacturers so you could almost say BMW are playing catch up and they charge you extra for that. As for comfort, one thing I keep hearing from many new 1300 owners is that they are a little cramped in the seat to pegs area if you're on the tall side.
I’m thinking an r1200GS with 20k on the clock and a full service for less than £10k is better than both of them. Spend the spare cash on gear and ferries to Europe.
A big increase from the previous gen 1250.. 136bhp for the GS and 148bhp for the tiger is hardly massive.. 12bhp difference, and considering the 1250GS still had more torque than all the others in its class including the tiger, that 12bhp actually amounted to nothing of any significance!
let's be serious... the gs is just way better in the way it handles. I am the owner of a few bikes, I've had the 1200GS, the 1250 GS and now the 1300gs. I also own a Triumph speed triple between other bikes. Let's just leave the image issue the gs has on the side for a minute... I have actually really, really wanted to like the tiger 1200 and buy it. I did try it twice, more than 1 hr on each occasion and on different roads. I will give it the power, speed, etc, but I simply cannot accept the argument this bike handles better or that it is way more comfortable than a gs. In the end you buy a motorcycle for riding pleasure and for me that riding pleasure comes mainly from the way the bike handles, so if the bike doesn't handle great on twisty roads I will not consider it. This is why, in the end I had to say no to the Tiger... top heavy, etc. when you start tipping it just doesn't want to do it, then it over does it, the acceleration is not fluid, not gs level anyway, it is a lot of stop and go. So, if you are someone who just wants to get on the bike and get on the motorways all day, then go ahead and buy the tiger, you will enjoy that. Otherwise, if you like to take your bike to mountain roads and enjoy twisty roads and also be able to do huge mileage during a trip, then you can do no better than the gs. I also do appreciate these comments are from the UK, so... ;-)).
Sadly, unlike the 900 the 1200 engine isn't so good - maybe due to shaft drive it has a tendency to jerk going to/from closed throttle, it's not that bad compared to some other bikes, but BMW managed to avoid it as did the (IMO) best bike in the class, the Multistrada; the second and much bigger problem is the vibrations over 6-7k RPM. The power delivery as well as the sound is great but no other engine vibrates as bad. Sadly, for a tall person like me (95 cm inseam - I think that's ~38 in for US peeps) it is just too small. And there is not much space to improve, e.g. the footpegs are much lower than with KTM and at low speeds (20-30 km/h) I was able to ride ~4 km/h faster on the KTM before touching the peg down. The suspension did not seem to be able to handle sporty riding (with my weight) on bad roads either. All in all, it feels there is much unrealized potential. I am curious about the new GS, I wasn't able to get a test ride last year due to the timing being end of the season here and big interest.
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I don't know about this 1300, because I haven't ridden one yet, but it's very strange, you say the gs 1250 is more comfortable than the Tiger, because definitely isn't.
The Tiger 1200 was easily the worst mistake I ever made. The bike is ridiculously top heavy, excessive heat and has no off road capability. I sold it at a loss.
I bought a Tiger GT Explorer in 2022 in Lucerne Blue and this is my experience : jerky driveshaft, too soft suspension even in hardest mode, vibrations in mirrors, not enough ground clearance when cornering, despite weight loss compared to the previous Tigers still gravity point too high, the feel of the clutch is like a dry clutch and not as a hydraulic one. As a matter of fact, I have had two clutch issues in less than 6000 miles : an air bulb formed into the hydraulic system causing almost a standstill : I couldn't almost shift gear anymore and it was very hard to get it in neutral. Clutch lever got very hard (stiff) as well and the travel became worrying . They purged two times at the dealership ( first time at 3000 miles, second time at 6000). My confidence in the bike is lost somewhere. Although the engine is not top compared to the GS, KTM or Ducati, it sounds nice and the quickshifter is smooth ... and fast enough to me. Next purchase somewhere in the future : again a GS, a 1300 of course after having had three 1200 GSes ! But despite this rather negative statement, I enjoy riding it and shall keep it for some time !
Owned a GS and a Tiger, I thought the Tiger was a much better motorcycle. The triple is such a good engine.
I have owned both and sold the tiger because it vibrated so bad I had to get off it after 100 miles
@@davehemmerly8496gotta relax your grip mate. If you honestly think the Tiger is vibey then dont try a Harley!
My Road Glide CVO is smooth a silk. Only vibrates at idle@@NicePantsLance
@@davehemmerly8496 depends on the person, I guess. I've ridden mine for hours on end with no issues.
I had a 2023 tiger Gt explorer and apparently that bike vibrated more than the others. It had better brakes, better suspension and a better seat. I'm not alone you will find so many with under 1500 miles in dealer show rooms. It cost me almost 10k to make the jump not something I wanted to do@@Kevimoto
Totally my pick will be the Triumph.
Fun, fun, triple sound, handling to ride with a safer feel at high speeds.....and the looks are amazing.
I have 2023 Tiger 1200GT Explorer, I installed Evotech bar ends, Grip puppies and DNK Tuneworks ECU map and the bike is smooth fast and really comfortable. I am 6'2" 205 lbs.
Hi, with DNK you unlock de speedometer?
yes DNK removes the top speed limiter I believe.
@@maximchouinard4066 nice, but the speed on dash board is unlock to?
Our tunes include:
Removal of top-speed limiter on all models
Increased redline specific to each model
Optimization of AFR on full throttle
Optimization of timing under full throttle
Greatly reduced deceleration popping entirely in all modes
Optimization of fueling based on Power Commander Maps and Dyno Testing
Recurved throttle mapping and rider modes for a more engaging experience
Optimized AFR in cruise and low throttle for driveability (no more stalling or snatch ever again)
Enable/Disable Secondary Air Injection
Enable/Disable O2 Sensors
No more cold start/stalling issues
Remove power/throttle limiters on certain models
Speedometer correction on certain models
Enable Cruise Control on models with optional Cruise Control
They say top speed removed, When I turn the bike on it does not show maximum top speed, my guess is that the top speed would be infinite
I'm not in the market for either of these... I just like your videos and am interested in where bikes are going in general 👍
I waited for the 1300 GS to come out. I even went to the US unveiling in Birmingham. I really liked and wanted the bike, but I bought the Tiger 1200 GT PRO. I really liked the Tiger, too, and it was 18k out the door new vs. 30k+ for the BMW. I'm in the middle of a 7k cross country trip with the Tiger. Cold, rain, snow, dirt, sand, winds... It's done great! The only complaint would be grip vibes when riding 80mph+ roads. Luckily, I'm in cruise control then and have a light grip. I also rarely travel those types of roads.
I bought an ex demo Tiger GT Pro for well under 14k last March - sweetened the deal with upper / lower crash bars and a heated seat plus an additional years warranty. Paying through the nose for a brand new bike these days just doesn’t make any sense, PCP is a bit of a rip off also. I considered the old GS1250 but the dealers just wouldn’t move on price or do a deal, unlike Triumph, so that swayed it for me. Both great bikes, pro’s and con’s for both, but for me the riding experience was better on the Triumph just like you said - exciting
27600 miles on a 1200 Rally Pro and vibrations are an after thought, although I never did get along with the abrupt throttle, until after a 20000 mile service; it was smoother, I don't know what they did, but fueling is now smoother.
Sport Mode is the only thing that reminds me of the way things were - and Sporty throttle is not at all miserable.
I test rode both and went for the Tiger in the end, plus those Germans bombed our Chippy!
@@thelocodude01 I still have a grudge too
Backlit switches mean the BMW would always lose for me. Plus the Triumph is just so much more fun to ride and it is very comfortable on long motorway journeys. It ticks more boxes for me, but as with all the opinions here, mine are subjective and suit me. The GS will always have fans for the same reason.
Great video as ever. Ride free and safe.
I own a GT Explorer and I just had a ride on the GS1300.. To be fair, I should compare it to the upcoming GS Adventure but as is I do have to say the GS1300 is a truly remarkable machine. The new engine makes it feel at least as brisk as the Tiger 1200, the suspension is on the firmer side compared to the Tiger but still comfortable. It retains the typical sublime balance the GS is known for but there are differences. The GS foot pegs are further up and further back compared to the old GS and Tiger so you do sit a bit more cramped on it. Half of the bike is gone so it doesn’t give you that king-of-the-road-feel anymore. It’s a hell of a lot smaller than the 1250 and Tiger. The stock wind protection is better on the GS than on the Tiger. The Quick Shifter isn’t good at all in my opinion. It shifts really jerky but the engine is a lot smoother with less vibrations.
All in all, the GS feels sportier but isn’t due to some things like the telelever front suspension giving you less front wheel feel and it is a lot smaller. I do sit more relaxed on the Tiger with its riding triangle and the suspension is softer on the Tiger. If you ride them back to back, most will have an extremely hard time choosing. Reliability I would say is on pair at the moment.
I ended up with the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer. It’s just fun to drive and makes me giddy when you twist the throttle. There will always be pros and cons when comparing bikes however it’s most important to choose a ride you connect with.
The quick shifter on the Triumph is butter smooth and makes shifting super fun. Because of the two tier seat heights, my wife can see over my head when she’s riding as pillion. It’s way less neck strain for longer trips.
This bike is a transformer. Switching between the modes you can cruz with soft suspension, sport mode tightens up the front end and increases throttle response, and off road lowers the suspension turning it into a giant dirt bike. You’re able to customize all of the modes. This bike is so much fun.
Lastly maintenance intervals is every 10k for Triumph and every 6k for BMW.
Thank you mate, today I signed the papers for my new 2024 Rally Explorer too :)
@@bogdanvelica
Congratulations!! You’re going to love it.
Would really like a comparison between the Triumph 900 vs 1200. Thank You.
Me too
I had a 2013 Tiger 800XC for my 1st bike which I loved. I test rode the 2014 Tiger 1200 and hated it. I bought a brand new R1200GSA with all additional tech and it was my favourite bike (also had a Ducati DVT multistrada and GL1800). I've now got a 2023 Triumph Bonneville T100 which is great for day trips out on country roads but this new GS really has me salivating and I'm struggling justify waiting a year to see how reliable it is (my Ducati was brand new in 2015 and was in the dealers for 8 months of the 1st year with 14 different issues and I swore I'd never buy a mark 1 new bike ever again).
So did you end up getting the GS?
@@rkr6237 Nope - I ended up going totally off-piste and bought a 2023 Honda Goldwing Tour with the DCT. I love it👍
@@wenditaylor2354 nice one 👍
Owned 3 Multistrada V4's,, 3 Tiger 1200s, and 4 GSA's. I'd go with the new 1300, IIMPO BMW nailed it.
Wow. You must be rich to afford all those bikes. 😅
@@GrandSolarEclipse Well if by rich you mean I study hard, solve complex migraine-inducing problems, work long hours in a stressful job, and save every penny possible to support my motorcycling passion. Then yes, I suppose you are right!
Got a 2023 Rally Explorer for about US $18.5K with luggage ready. Couldn't be happier. Can't see spending upwards of US $32.5K for the BMW.
I own an BMW R1250RT and I am not a poser.
Perhaps not, but you still need your wife's permission to take your bike on a trip😅
Even though I haven't ridden either Id take the Triumph any day just on looks and reliability .
Reliability?😂😂😂
Famous British reliability 😂 those people have been brainwashed so hard that they think that Land Rover is reliable
@@rickybobby8224are you entertaining the idea that BMW is more reliable than modern Triumphs? 😂
Lucas electronics, the Prince of Darkness
@@rickybobby8224 well they are probably slightly better than BMW but nothing like Honda haha
The new Tiger 1200 wins it for me. Looks and sounds better. I love the vibes too!
So, in the end. Just ride both and see for yourself, which one you like more...
same every video of his, doesnt like to diss a maufacturer incase they stop lending bikes. all youtubers are the same
Yep, that's the way it should be.
Tried both with a view to buying, I didn't like the T-plane triple in the Tiger, it's lost the smoothness of the old 1200, and felt really lumpy and agricultural at low revs, I liked the engine on the BMW, but found the handling a bit strange, a bit understeery in corners, and lazy and unresponsive, and very expensive onced speced up, looking forward to a ride on the new Stelvio.
The T plane sounds awful at idle.... but you need to get it up towards the red line...... she really growls like a Tiger then.
The BMW isn’t “understeery” in corners in the slightest. It’s planted and easy to throw about (maybe not if your 80) The BMW price is the same within a few ££ as every other in the segment . The triumph not that i’m a fan at all is a smooth and better bike than many give it credit for. The tech on the triumph is a bit poor and ebay like but they are improving. In reference to the guzzi vs any of the two about is comical there are light years ahead of that bike.
Great comparison Rob. So cool to be able to ride both back to back. For me I’d have to go the GS because my uncle has one and he’s ridden them around the world. Plus I’ve always loved those stonking and smooth boxer engines that stick out the side like they don’t care.
I’m glad you are finally out of the studio and back comparing bikes Bob 👍
These huge bikes are fabulously impressive. They're just what's required whenever you need to cross Europe or America in a hurry.
Wait until the bikes need a valve clearance check?BM wins hands down.Taking off rear wheel also goes to the BM for simplicity.
I am currently considering one of these two bikes. I currently have a Tiger 800. Great bike but there are things I don’t like, sound and brakes. I have rode a BMW 1150, 1200 and 1250 and thought they were way better. I will think I will give the BMW a go.
Thanks for the Video. It was very informative and unbiased.
My dude, I had an 800xc for 6 years and jumped to the 1200 rally pro. Truth is the old inline 3cyl whine gets old after a while, this new discrete and "agricultural" sound on T Planes is very relaxing while cruising but it roars so nice after 7k rpm. I wonder why you don't like the brakes, they are Stylemmas, the top of the top from Brembo.
OK I ride a 2013 BMW R1200gsa. And I have 5 friends that owned tiger 900 and 1200. Every one of the tigers were totaled on their 1st or 2nd crashes.. and minor crashes! Now not to say you shouldn't crash your bike but were talking off road.. I ride hard 52 years experience on and off road.
I've crashed the bike several times. And all I've had as damage was repainted the valve guard covers. The triumphs are awesome bikes. Just don't crash.. lol. I love my BMW r1200gsa and believe it's as bullet proof as a motorcycle can be. I'm also a motorcycle tech of 50 + years experience too.. I don't agree with this guy.. sorry. Triumph is more a street machine. BMW is both . And electronics are are something that will leave you stranded in the outback.. too many electronics to break.. it's ridiculous.
I wouldn’t dare go off road or adventure riding with both of them.
I go for enfield Himalayan. Save money and probably many more smiles on my face.
That’s a weird take.. say what you will, but these are 2 of the best motorcycles in their class. BMW is more on road biased, but the Tiger 1200 Rally is a seriously capable off-road bike.
As far as bikes that handle both on road and off road, they are hard to beat.
Royal enfield is great and definitely lighter off-road, but not as powerful as these 2 for those longer highway rides.
@@theguitarhero898 check the new himalayan 450. good for real off road/adventure/miles munching on motorways/everyday use.
People on heavy bikes are gonna downsize more in the future.
I don’t want to lift a GS by myself anymore up in the mountains. Totally unsuitable for this kind of travelling.
But most of GS rider don’t leave the tarmac.
Yeah, 40 hp on highways and 5000 kms service intervals sound very fun to me.
@@dafebeme2 travel adventure trough Asia was a lot of fun
Hey there Moto Bob
Wish you could make detailed comparison between the new tiger 1200 rally explorer and the new BMW 1300 gsa.
Would be great to hear it from a pro like you.
Looking forward for the video
Never ridden either, my personal preferences align more with the GS however. But here’s a challenge to BMW. Make a skinny GS, 800cc, and 200kg.
You mean like the F900GS?
the weight is a myth I came from 850-1250 and the weight is nothing to get excited about the 1250 hides it lower and feels miles better to move around. The 850 was ok but didn’t have enough balls for me.
Rode both this week with the Triumph being the updated 2024 model. GS is a great bike and if you want to waft around in comfort in relative silence then thats the one to choose, if you want a more engaging characterful grin factor bikers bike then the Triumph wins hands down, so much so i immediately ordered the new GT Pro 😂
As a shorter rider and comfort with BMW ergos , easy choice for me. Love the boxer motor
Have ridden a few BMW boxers over the years and not really liked them until the 1250 came out. That is a great motor and I assume the 1300 is at least as good. I've ended up with a GT Explorer and am really enjoying it as my comfortable tourer (I have a T7 for the dirty stuff). Digging the T-plane (and that rasp you spoke of) and the handling is fantastic on our crappy roads. Also appreciate that the only farkles I've had to buy are a tank bag and a GPS bracket (actually a mate helped make the bracket). Also enjoying the onboard tech. ACC would have been nice.
There are currently really good deals on left over tigers and atleast on my market you can get Tiger for 10k€ cheaper than your new average r1300gs. Remember base price BMW's dont exists. Except for their g310 series
J'adore la Tiger 1200 Rally Pro 😍
tiger has all crash protection as standard? if so then you need to add about 15kg to the BM, also, did BM do the sneaky trick of reducing fuel capacity on the 1300? I know they have on other models to make them appear lighter....
And the weight on BMW is without center stand
The rally version its standard I ended up having to add upper crash bars to my tiger GT Explorer
The main fun quotient of Tiger 🐯 1200 is inline triple engine with T plane crank which results in storm of torque at the rear shaft driven wheel while BMW 1300 gs flat twin popularly known as boxer engine with shift cam technology is famous for smooth torque delivery at the shaft driven rear wheel.
Good comparison. Appreciate the upload.
Great video & I concur it's a very personal choice, with the 1160 Speed RS derived engine now fitted in the Tiger 1200. I'm extremely disappointed Triumph have persisted with the vibey offbeat T plane crank rather than the smoother 120 degree firing order in the Speed RS, so despite being a long time Triumph owner & road sports tour rider i'll be choosing the V4S Multistrada !
Beware of BMW's shocks. High failure rate. My GS1250 rear shock failed at 16000km, no off-road and outside warranty. 2500 Euros to replace
they can be rebuilt at a reasonable cost
Reliability isnt BMWs best quality
I own Tiger and there is no better bike for me. Thanks for vid, nicely done. Cheers!
The GT Pro would have been a better comparison for the 1300GS which lets face it is hardly ever going to go off road. The GT Pro is a grand cheaper, plus there are keener deals on the Tiger because Triumph owners rightfully expect a manufacturer to work for it's money. The 1300GS does seem a good bike but it seems to be having an identity crisis, is it an adventure bike or not?..... Also re. weight, be interesting to know how they stack up when fully loaded. Also how they cope with a pillion. As you've probably gathered I'm a 2023 GT Pro owner and I love it!
I think the quoted weight on the GS is in bare form. Once you add bits and pieces to make it a 1250 equivalent that most would choose then it gets much closer to the 1250 weight.
With my BWM ownership experience it is a non-starter. I'd take the Triumph every time.
Do tell
Waited so long for the 13 so I could have a great laugh at the looks. And have you seen the 'Adventure'?! Absolutely hilarious. Triumph has nothing to worry about.
Would be good to do this again when the GS Adventure is launched in a few months .. more like for like .. but at the end of the day they are all fantastic bikes .. Enjoyed your review very much ..
I'm thinking about ditching my Victory Vision and bushtec trailer. And change up my riding and go with one of these two.
Gs still no lighting on the switch gear, for the price, whats the deal?
Optional extra.......£745......+ VAT. 😂
😂😂😂😂😂ffs another switchgear bandwagon passenger. Never ever have I even considered this on any bike and never once have I in the dark had to pull over because I didn’t know where the indicators were. It’s a fad argument which internet bikers want to have.
@@Crsf84 You obviously ride a bike with only a high beam and turn signals.
It’s a motorcycle not a car lol you go by feel 😳
@@colinkirk3250 Feel works when you only have a horn, turn signals and a high beam switch! Lighted switchgear is a convenience that is nice to have on a high end bike with more than 3 switches.
I would be interested in seeing a comparison video of the R1300GS and the 2024 Triumph Tiger 1200!
BMW 1300 gs has reliability issues:main contactor relay with corrosion;oil leak from the gear box seal;luggage contactors default and so on;even if T1200 had mapping issues,for the price I 'd definitly go for the Triumph;you see less on the road and owners are more friendly when they meet me on my transalp 750
Interesting you thought the Tiger was more aggressive when riding, but it looks like you had the GS in 'Road' mode - did you feel this was still the case when the GS was in Dynamic mode?
These comments crack me up. Some good natured razzing. Some not so much. As far as I'm concerned, we're splitting hairs. No way to lose with either one.
On px comparison you d need to compare a gs adventure when it arrives with the explorer rally. Otherwise it is not like for like. A base gt pro vs the gs, Triumph much cheaper. 2 years used, like for like (with the 1250 gs), Triumph is like 40% less.
looking to get the Tiger 1200 rally pro this year just was blown away with it
blown away?😂
Recently bought the R1250GS, it remains King imo
I did demo rides on two different Tiger models last summer. I found the electronics on those to be absolutely garbage. The radiators are mounted on each side of the gas tank. This makes crash bars around the tank an absolute must. Otherwise, you are running the risk of braking your radiator fans if you lay your bike down. It also felt top heavy. I do not know, I really did not like the Tigers at all. I was a lot more happier on a 1250GS. Neither of them I was able to take off road. Hopefully I can hop on a 1300 one day
How often do people adjust windscreens? Only time I move it is from going to/from dirt and in that case it's a simple hand flick to move it. It seems an overkill to make it powered.
Depends on the bike, if it's easy like on Tiger or Multi, I adjust it every time I speed up or slow down over ~70 km/h, original BMW had a knob you had to turn and it was on right hand which was quite annoying although there are worse (especially those that require a screwdriver to adjust).
@@TacticalHamsterDance Yes a knob requiring the throttle hand would be a real PITA. Why do you change it when going 70kph?
@@shegocrazy under roughly that speed, the wind noise is not that loud and I prefer getting some ventilation, above that it feels too much and I would rather block it 🙂
Tiger needs revs to be enjoyed, i ride mine a gear down and keeps the revs above 3500 and the sound at 5 above is awesome!
Nice side by side comparison. If I can give some feedback, it would be nice to have a cost of ownership comparison. For example how often service and oil changes are necessary. If BMW is so much cheaper to service than a Triumph? And so on.
By the way, the 2025 Tigers are out and in stores. Can you make a clip on the new 900 and new 1200?
Cheers from Sweden
The more you have the more that can fail. And if your short in the leg and the GS doesn't lower you could have a problem.
The one thing I really like the the GS is the SOS button and can't understand why others don't have it as this could really be a life saver 😢
Would like to see the price in text on the screen, of the BMW 1300 GS fully equipped in comparison to the Tiger 🧐📎
The tiger 1200 rally is more compatible to the GSA not the GS.
No. The Triumph GT explorer is closer to the GSA
How about, ‘which one will cost more for maintenance?’
I have a Tiger 1200 Rally Exp and you forgot to mention that the Tiger forces you to come to a complete stop whenever you change riding modes from road to off-road and back. Totally drives you crazy after a day of watching you mates on other Adv bikes continually into the distance every time the surface changes. Come on Triumph pull your finger out in this one and fix it up via software!!
I have test rode the GS1300 but it just doesn’t work for me.... I can not really spot why but it is what it is. I think I miss a bit of fun factor with the GS. Nothing is wrong with it, but I don’t like the feeling. My current bike is KTM 1290 Adventure R, that must be the explanation 🤔
Great honest review. Thanks for sharing
I've never riden the new Tiger, perhaps I need to try it. I'm wondering what the new GSA will be like
Arrg, what a choice, but where does the MultiStrada V4 Rally sit in this comparison?
That GS is a gorgeous bike
It’s the Tiger for me. Great review. 👍
Just in case either BMW or Triumph's R&D look in here . I look forward to the day The Tiger900 has a shaft drive and is up against a R80 GS with the telilever suspension ... 250 mile range on a slightly lower HP / Torque bike (that can ride on low test :) ,, Thanks for these Rob always a pleasure .. I know you get a lot of comments so don't mind the broken record you keep getting from one fan in New England .. Yours Guy
I would love to own either bike!
On my third gs1200 im being swayed due to the panniers would swap easy to a 1250. Personnely id love a Vstrom 1050 its cheaper and loaded with extras. Only snag is chain but im willing to change
What about offroad ability? They’re supposed to be adventure bikes. Did a lot of dirt roads, sand, mountain trails with 1200 ADV/ 1250s, the boxer engine just gives you supreme control and stability. If my journey might include unpaved roads, I’d always go for a GS. Though I like the tiger’s looks much better.
In terms of value comparison, how bout resale values?
4:40 i think you’ll find the firing order is 180, 270, 270. not 2 close together and one further apart…
Also there is the novelty value. GS are as common as muck however you don't see so many Tigers.
there's been good reason for that disparity over the years - new tiger may change things though
Another great video. Thank you!
Be good to see a proper weigh in, ie. Both on proper scales and both full of fuel. My bet is, we see a different story. Both great bikes. Buy the one you like and let others enjoy their choice.
Seeing them side by side the tiger’s more brutal styling makes the BMW look a bit like like a sport tourer.
Is the triumph you tested a 2024 model?
BMW takes you to a place at the end of your ride. The Triumph is all about being on that ride.
Which one comes with air conditioning ?
If you like Triumphs - Tiger is better. In every other case - GS is better ;)
Looking at the service schedule, shaft on 1300gs appears to be a service replacement item now at 48000miles £££££££
That BMW headlight didn't sell it for me. Big mistake by BMW.
I sat on both of them during a bike show, the Triumph is dangerously tall compared to the gs. Especially with the dynamic ride height.
Not the GT Pro with the lower seat option plus the new seat lowering option... that gets the seat height down to about 820mm I believe.
The Rallys have 21" front wheels, whereas the BMW uses a 19". You can also get a 19" front wheel on the Triumph, if you'd like. For the Triumph, you can adjust the seat lower and there is an even lower seat available. You can also lower the suspension on the Tiger by 20mm by pushing and holding the home button.
I think the T-plane is bit of a poor choice from Triumph. Surely, you buy a triple because it's smooth - so making a triple less smooth to make it more like a twin counters it's selling point and just puts it more in the firing line of people who might be weighing up a GS?
Great review!
No mention of service costs which has to be a factor for many
I think the GS has had its day, although the new R1300 is still a mighty fine bike (if a little ugly) BMW are starting to run into the limitations of the boxer twin configuration, you can only up capacity so much in the pursuit of power. Tech wise the new 1300 brings nothing new to the table we've not seen before from other manufacturers so you could almost say BMW are playing catch up and they charge you extra for that. As for comfort, one thing I keep hearing from many new 1300 owners is that they are a little cramped in the seat to pegs area if you're on the tall side.
I’m thinking an r1200GS with 20k on the clock and a full service for less than £10k is better than both of them. Spend the spare cash on gear and ferries to Europe.
A big increase from the previous gen 1250.. 136bhp for the GS and 148bhp for the tiger is hardly massive.. 12bhp difference, and considering the 1250GS still had more torque than all the others in its class including the tiger, that 12bhp actually amounted to nothing of any significance!
I’ve got a 1250 gs and I love it but you seem to be working for bmw the way your pushing that 1300
Your hoodie, the one that says BSMC on it... i thought that was the new harley design.
Gs1300 vs african twin 2024?
let's be serious... the gs is just way better in the way it handles. I am the owner of a few bikes, I've had the 1200GS, the 1250 GS and now the 1300gs. I also own a Triumph speed triple between other bikes. Let's just leave the image issue the gs has on the side for a minute... I have actually really, really wanted to like the tiger 1200 and buy it. I did try it twice, more than 1 hr on each occasion and on different roads. I will give it the power, speed, etc, but I simply cannot accept the argument this bike handles better or that it is way more comfortable than a gs. In the end you buy a motorcycle for riding pleasure and for me that riding pleasure comes mainly from the way the bike handles, so if the bike doesn't handle great on twisty roads I will not consider it. This is why, in the end I had to say no to the Tiger... top heavy, etc. when you start tipping it just doesn't want to do it, then it over does it, the acceleration is not fluid, not gs level anyway, it is a lot of stop and go. So, if you are someone who just wants to get on the bike and get on the motorways all day, then go ahead and buy the tiger, you will enjoy that. Otherwise, if you like to take your bike to mountain roads and enjoy twisty roads and also be able to do huge mileage during a trip, then you can do no better than the gs. I also do appreciate these comments are from the UK, so... ;-)).
Sadly, unlike the 900 the 1200 engine isn't so good - maybe due to shaft drive it has a tendency to jerk going to/from closed throttle, it's not that bad compared to some other bikes, but BMW managed to avoid it as did the (IMO) best bike in the class, the Multistrada; the second and much bigger problem is the vibrations over 6-7k RPM. The power delivery as well as the sound is great but no other engine vibrates as bad.
Sadly, for a tall person like me (95 cm inseam - I think that's ~38 in for US peeps) it is just too small. And there is not much space to improve, e.g. the footpegs are much lower than with KTM and at low speeds (20-30 km/h) I was able to ride ~4 km/h faster on the KTM before touching the peg down. The suspension did not seem to be able to handle sporty riding (with my weight) on bad roads either.
All in all, it feels there is much unrealized potential. I am curious about the new GS, I wasn't able to get a test ride last year due to the timing being end of the season here and big interest.
I don't know about this 1300, because I haven't ridden one yet, but it's very strange, you say the gs 1250 is more comfortable than the Tiger, because definitely isn't.
The Tiger 1200 was easily the worst mistake I ever made. The bike is ridiculously top heavy, excessive heat and has no off road capability. I sold it at a loss.