I love mine. Why? It's light weight and the power is linear which for me is perfect for single trail. I don't like to be surprised as most of the time I ride alone. I'm not a pro rider like 99.9% of the users. I am experienced as I've been riding for 27 years now. I've had the big bore bikes like the 1200gs but this is one of my toys. Yes, I put the right mods on from Touratech and a Akrapovic exhaust. But wrenching is part of the fun for me. And like all good hobbies, if it has tits or an engine it will cost you a fortune. Are there other bikes that out perform it? I'm sure there are plenty. But I will never ride Dakar or anything remotely close to it. I'm able to pick it up all day long when I fall down without getting hurt. And if I want to go nuts I'll take my KTM two stroke (nobody can beat that). Use the bike when you want to cruise through the forest or back roads without putting yourself in danger. Don't under estimate the danger you can put yourself into and don't over estimate your own riding ability when it comes to adventure riding. It's not worth it and if you want adrenaline go to the track were there are paramedics and you have extra insurance. Stay safe and have fun. Eat, sleep, ride, repeat.
This bike is a fine tourer and will run all day at 85mph as well as handle the twistiest of roads. If you want to go offroad, drop about 25psi in the tires and let her rip....Smoothest single you will ride....
Definitely not for a big dude - but I’m happy with it super fun. I took a Sertao On trails 95% of you couldn’t ride. This bike won’t likely be in the Dakar - but it’ll give a KLR a run for the money.
Whaah!! I have the 2014 Sertao - I'm 250 lbs and rode the dogshit out of it on single track whoops, forest service roads and plenty of highway throughout Oregon's Mt Hood area. The suspension did not disappoint (did not bottom once) as opposed to "homey's" description. He should have bought a YZ... The one thing he was right about was the foot pegs - replace them asap! Moose Racing pegs work great!
As the owner of a 2004 Dakar This video is a pretty good description of the bike. The bike is a real good all-rounder. I have used it to commute to work and I have found that it cruises well at 120 to 130K with great fuel mileage. As far as off road goes, the Dakar is a real good logging road bike like the video says, but is too big and heavy for the real narrow rugged stuff. It is fun to ride, but you need excellent off road skills in order to get the most out of it, because of it's size.
I'm 64 this year and I ride mine pretty slow off road so the suspension works just fine . You should have mentioned that the rear suspension is fully adjustable and that it has a marked dial in arms reach so you can adjust it while riding . You have to be doing pretty stupid things to bottom out the front shocks . Just slow your ass down and they will never bottom out even if you weigh over 200 lbs . Fast forward after 11 years and people have figured out these are great bikes and used ones are still between 5 and 7 thousand dollars depending on the miles . Trust me if you can find one for sale grab it fast . The engines are bullet proof and low maintenance . People are reporting over 150,000 miles with only one valve adjustment , so that's hard to beat . The dumb ass in the video didn't even mention that the gas tank is under the seat and low to the ground . This gets rid of the heavy top end like all the other bigger dual sport bikes . Because the weight of the rider and the gas is in the center controlling it on tight single trails through the mountains is a breeze and it handles a lot better than the lighter weight crf 300 l rally in the woods . If you are thinking about getting this bike good luck . Join the facebook sertao groups and check out what this bike can really do from owners . His guy in the video is not a owner or a very good rider . You can tell by the way he was trying to get around the rock at the very end .
Great comment! This video review really wasnt justified for this awesome bike. A friend of me travelled literally the world and put about 30.000 km on it. He was very happy with it and never even had any serious problems, just some casual normal deterioration. But very reliable, quite comfortable, lower weight, easy to maneuver, fuel efficient.............the list is long. Perfect travel bike
I'm Really happy with mine overall. I don't understand the constant slam on the Front forks being too tall. or "Spindley" I have never Experienced any of this High speed wobble or mush However you said it. But Hey I'm coming off a 2009 KLR 650. Almost anything is an Improvement on that. You needed the Taller seat for that bike, Makes a huge Difference in the Legs.
I have had this bike for a year now, I've broke off the rear mud guard and brake light, with a fight, it was fixed by BMW and I added the aftermarket brace. I also changed the motor sprocket to 13T, much much better for off road and climbing with adventure gear. Next is removing the CAT, add a slip on (ordered) and using the old muffler as a tool storage can. Great review, I'm not happy I have to spend $2000 on my bike, but I'm happy I have her.
thank you , Ive a 2009 g650gs , that I bought tore apart put back together painted , That I got past its quirkiness and that, took bait of learning , and watching a lot RUclips , and forums , This bike just wants to go , is it the prettiest nope , but It likes the paint Job , and just gives. Gota love a thumper ,
My 2012 BMW f650gs has been full of factory defects. Nice machine, nice design, but I think all of the people in Berlin must have a hangover when they are putting these machines together - you never know what you are getting. Great video! Thanks!
well, I've riden dirt bykes most of the time, and now at my age, 63, i decided to try a dual, so i got a klr650, old version, great byke, eavy though, so I jumped to a bmw650 (i'm short.!!!) and it looks great ! , will never compare it with a off road bike, never !.. so BMW looks great, can ride it on the road, off road too, but if I want to RIDE... I will jump on my KTM 450 and leave it at that..!!
i dont mean to be off topic but does anyone know a method to get back into an instagram account?? I was stupid lost my login password. I love any help you can give me
@Mateo Cyrus i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im trying it out now. Takes quite some time so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
I have the base model of this. With it being shorter and on more road oriented tires, man can this thing carve twisties. Having the gas tank under the seat was a great idea because it feels lighter than it is and more flick-able. Plus is only weighs 423 pounds wet, which most of the more modern adv bikes are stupid heavy. It also gets around 65mpg even when riding like a goon. Stops nice too with the brembos. I was between this and the KLR. Glad I went with this bike. My only complaints are that there is no 6th gear, it has some decent vibration at highway speeds (like any 650 single does), the stock pegs and seat kinda suck too.
a 6 speed box would be nice - but as far as increasing engine performance, if riders take off 10 kgs the body doesn't need then power to weight ratio increases markedly. Suspension may work better too
I rode the explorer and it was pretty nice. I own a 800XC and the explorer is not worth the extra 3,000-4,000. I think the Triumph Tiger 800 is the way to go.
We've always had a pretty distinctly Canadian voice to this stuff, since that's where a majority of the test bikes come from. No real claim to be North American, but I will look at including imperial conversions in future videos.
Prior to shooting the video we road the bike for about 3 weeks, getting to know it. The video you see is the culmination of that experience. I think you've summed it up with "if you want a bike that is good off road then buy a dirt bike". BMW is overselling this bike given its ride dynamic, which is the point of the video.
This was a dream bike for me but I never bought one. They must not be too bad because they're expensive in the used market. I recently bought a BMW G310GS and I'm loving it. It's not a dirt bike, but at 60, I'm no longer a dirt rider. I've had small dual sport bikes since 1975 and I'm very happy to finally have a small ADV bike.
Don't ride it below Freezing or your Crankcase evacuation hose will freeze and blow your Valve cover. Yeah I have had it happen 5 times. They blew it with me. PS I have the video's posted to prove it.
Jeremy. My buddy has the 800xc and it's nice, but I'd take the explorer if I could. I don't ride a hard as I used to and on the hyway, loaded for a few weeks playing on forestry road the explorer is really nice. But I'll stick with the Varadero and see if the price comes down. Thanks
Im african, so I dont really care about any brand. As long as it works and can keep up with the african heat... My honda seems to always work well. maybe I should look at another of those...
I believe it is just south of Squamish by the looks of it. Was also wondering where this was as I have just bought a DR650 and would like to know some good trails to start off with being from Vancouver.
Im not at all convinced by this guys review. It doesnt seem like he knows what he is talking about. I beleive this bike to be a perfect bike for its segment. i remember all the same shitty comments about the dakar when it came out and then 10 years later everyone was saying its the best bike ever... I ride a 800 and in my opinion was the worst buy I made in my life and is the cause to me probably not buying a bmw ever again in my life... as you said this video seemed very negative from the onset
Willem Oldewage He is referring to the difference between the original F and current G engine which is the same design,but different manufacturer...no longer a Rotax built engine..(both F&G are common engines with their respective Dakar/Sertao)...
It would really depend on the speed you expect to handle the highways at, by 70mph I found the bike pretty wobbly. You might want to look at something like the KTM 690 Enduro, which while skewed towards the dirt end of the spectrum has much better on road manners.
It's not that I hate metric it's that I dislike the holier-than-thou attitude of those who've been indoctrinated into thinking it's superior. It is, after all, just another way to measure things by marking off a standard distance or volume...etc. Nothing against Canadians on my part at all. Rode from Niagara Falls to Port Huron on a Canadian Holiday. It was flat and well maintained but it was a crowded speedway!
I've got a low miles 2006 F650GS and it could deffo do with a 6th gear on the Highway . It has the 19"/17" spoked wheels so is better suited to short asses like me . ( 5'8" ) The seat comfort is awful so I added a gel cushion and sheepskin on top . It is a fun bike up to about 70 mph /120kph on tighter A and B roads . With 20/80 off road tyres (Mitas E 09s ) it copes ok with mud and gravel but these are way to vibey for the tarmac . I'm changing to Mitas MC24 TRAIL INVADER's as I do much more road . Fuel consumption is excellent , covering an average of 72 + Mpg or 3.92 L / 100 Km regardless of speed . It will sit at 80mph on the Motorway but that's not a particularly nice place to be due to the poor wind protection and lack of the 6th gear . Generally a good B road twisty bike .This bike wasn't built for Giants like you M8 ,that's more your skyscraper KTMs , Africa Twin and 1200 GS territory . Nice video and Fabulous scenery , thanks for taking the time .
Near the beginning you did say something like "...no real claim to north America..." that got me on my high horse. Re: ugliness: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
To be honest I was going to throw in subtitles, but forgot in the rush to pack for a trip. The great and powerful Google will supply the conversions as needed. Just file metric as one of our Canadian charms, not an ugliness. ;)
Actually, I wanted to know more about it's highway capability. I live in Arizona and travel long distances out here in the West to get to my choice gravel roads.
So lets say you wanted the ability to carry camping gear and a "hefty" rider at 80MPH for long distance, and wanted to maintain a decent level of off road capability but didn't want the massive heft of one of the monster enduro's. Would this fit the bill? Or do you need to look at one of the ~800cc enduros that are out there?
I'm glad I didn't bite, when it tempted me a year ago. I'm much happier on my Tiger XCx. The 1200 GS is still the world traveler, but as middleweights go Triumph has taken the off-road lead away from the 800 GS. The WP suspension clinches it, and having cruise control for the highway is a great bonus. The Sertao would have been a wee bit lighter and nimbler off road, but is definitely NOT the all day highway cruiser that the Triumph is. Overall, what does the Sertao do for you that a Honda enduro doesn't? It wants to be a dirt bike, but isn't. And it's not up to much on the freeway, compared to the 800 GS or the Tiger. So....what the heck is it? A very expensive wannabe Honda, that's what. Imagine what you could built from a Honda with all that money you saved! At the very least you could buy a nice trailer and drive to the trailhead in air conditioned comfort.
This bike has been around the world ten fold , so you cant knock it ok . Your demo shows a massive guy over 100 kilos - 16 stone on a bike . This guy needs a 1150 , 1200 gs ok
I love mine! it's a 2013 so starting issues, front fender bracket and whatever are factory solved. I've posted my own (unprofessional) real world brief review.
I don't recall you saying anything positive about this bike, it appears you had a negative opinion of the bike before you had a chance to test it, but then again i could be wrong. Honestly i don't see anything wrong with it. It's an adventure bike; it was made to be comfortable on and off road. It also appears the bike is not made for a 6'2" person if you're saying it is awkward to sit on with your legs on the foot pegs. If you want a bike that is good off road than buy a dirt bike
"Overselling?" Hmmm. Interesting concept. Most companies that want people to buy their products "oversell" in hopes that potential buyers turn into actual buyers.
I went to dealers and they had 1 old dakar and now the sertao. What I found was: all the aspects of the old bike, that needed fixing, had not been done, all the things that were just fine - were messed up. Now, it is a good beginner bike whatever You do - but it is no adventure bike and it feels cheap chinese plastik compared to the older Dakar. I skipped, went with KTM adventure and will never look towards that "chinese" again nor recommend it...
Great video! POS bike! I'll take a KLR any day. Speaking of crazy over priced, have you ridden the Triumph Explorer? Really crisp power, love the on road feel and no chain rocks. Price sucks! Real world price is close $35.000. That's trade in and 10 years of $260 a month payments. Holy!
My personal experience with them was absolutely shocking. too many problems, recalls, lies etc... The sales people were very nice and friendly on a personal level. but the company related decisions and relations were just shocking. I have already had my fights with them on several forums etc... Im not too interested in going into debates again about this whole thing. All i can say, is, theres something orange, starting with a K in my near future. BMW can stick its road assistance, nobody cares
I miss using Imperial...I like Fahrenheit, miles, quarts....-and if it makes you feel better....I AM CANADIAN...-and I don't like most of them...[ but we do live on the best Biking roads in the World...empty, good surface..at least a few months a year.....AND your American Ladies say I'm really, really good looking]
The 800 was that bad?....-even with the Roadside\ Service etc.?....I honestly thought you couldn't go wrong w\ a Bimmer.....what's the beef with them? thx, we'd like to hear....
There is a reason the rest of the world now use (and have for some time now) the metric system. Because its easier more logical, accurate, and transferable.....because quite simply its better. When the British who invented the imperial measurement standard dropped it to take on the metric system made by there much hated old Parisian enemy that should have been a pretty good indicator. I hope america has a better time adapting to the current changing world now or it will not do so well.
I don't think I will be shelling out the extra cash for this thing...doesn't seem like it is worth that much more than the Japanese rivals, other than hoses & more expensive/harder to get parts... Just my opinion... Later.
I'm different...the Canadian Prairie Pavement is endless...and the true test of a machine is how much cold it can take.....the roads here can Eat a Superbike, lotsa 'Busa's etc....I'm on a little island now, where ANY bike is big; windy wet roads etc, I've got Star V-Twin ..Gixxer...-and doing a deal on tricked out Triumph Daytona... I assume your South African?...In BC, CAN..we bike from desert through rain forest and serious mountains to 'north pole' [Dempster hiway]..for 4 months\year. crazy
If I put marks on a stick at some arbitrary distance evenly space apart does this mean my system is more 'logical'? Logical is word applied to systems that have rules of inference. Measurement doesn't. By your criteria, Latin should still be used. It was the language of scholars, mathematicians and scientists in which inference was done (to prove theorems you need rules of inference) and science, philosophy was discussed. America put a man on the moon in 1969 with the English system.
No..you just think you're ahead of the times when you're really no where at all. Besides ol Neil claims to be doing the review for "North America". Last I checked that included America too.
You sir need to understand that there are two countries in the world that rely upon old imperial units, like gallons, inches, etc, one of those countries is Liberia in Africa and You the USA. We the world (all area out side your country) use metric which is somewhat larger and has a slightly higher population. You would be one of those Yanks with their head up their ass thinking that the USA is the world would you? For an Australian this has been a good review.
Exactly...Drum to Wayne [Alberta's best kept secret] ..Athabaska. to Jasper-Banff Parkway then south to Radium HotSprings....if you have time, British Columbia is a trip unto itself...But the run to Atha B will have you break land speed records....nothing!....-and Bwokentoof is typical of the characters we have Up North...it's God-Forsaken..-and you might find that Canadians aren't all that bad...except our women....THEY ARE HORRIBLE...generally speaking....Ride Safe...CWS
The English wanted to join the EU. If you're going to be part of economic unit you need a common set of weights and standards. I have heard your "its easier more logical, accurate, and transferable" many times before. It's as if you've been indoctrinated. I don't say the English system is better. I say it's the system I've use all my life and understand. The French Revolution was bloody and the metric system was dreamed up by one of the useful idiots that took part in it. He got beheaded!
Hope you’re not one of those individuals, who tend to hang on for dear life to their own stubborn, deep biass against anything metric, cause your old men told you so? Take it from a retired tool/diemaker, machinist aswell as a fully qualified gunmaker: metric was even adapted in Britain straight after WWII, some 3 decades before I started apprenticing, well before the Euro existed and I’m 60 right now! Wether you like it or not, metric rules allover the globe: just guess why even their past most staunch opponents, the Yanks, who have also been using for these past 3 decades and are still using it in all their present aerospace & military equipment fabrication applications and this for very simple reason! I’m not going to explain it, as the other guy already explained it perfectly well, but I guess it might be still damn hard to grasp for those who are ignorant from nature or haven’t been around in modern industrial environments enough or are in the building industry profession or something, cheers, lol 😝!
This didnt age well. Even nowdays more than 10 years after the release, it is still remaining at a great value and very much respected. The engine is totally fine, unless you weight 300 pounds and go 60 miles per hour offroad.
I love mine. Why? It's light weight and the power is linear which for me is perfect for single trail. I don't like to be surprised as most of the time I ride alone. I'm not a pro rider like 99.9% of the users. I am experienced as I've been riding for 27 years now. I've had the big bore bikes like the 1200gs but this is one of my toys. Yes, I put the right mods on from Touratech and a Akrapovic exhaust. But wrenching is part of the fun for me. And like all good hobbies, if it has tits or an engine it will cost you a fortune. Are there other bikes that out perform it? I'm sure there are plenty. But I will never ride Dakar or anything remotely close to it. I'm able to pick it up all day long when I fall down without getting hurt. And if I want to go nuts I'll take my KTM two stroke (nobody can beat that). Use the bike when you want to cruise through the forest or back roads without putting yourself in danger. Don't under estimate the danger you can put yourself into and don't over estimate your own riding ability when it comes to adventure riding. It's not worth it and if you want adrenaline go to the track were there are paramedics and you have extra insurance. Stay safe and have fun. Eat, sleep, ride, repeat.
Glad you like it. Enjoy the ride.
Had mine just over a year, a few initial problems but all sorted under warranty. I love this bike, its perfect for commuting as well as long rides.
This bike is a fine tourer and will run all day at 85mph as well as handle the twistiest of roads. If you want to go offroad, drop about 25psi in the tires and let her rip....Smoothest single you will ride....
Definitely not for a big dude - but I’m happy with it super fun. I took a Sertao On trails 95% of you couldn’t ride. This bike won’t likely be in the Dakar - but it’ll give a KLR a run for the money.
Whaah!! I have the 2014 Sertao - I'm 250 lbs and rode the dogshit out of it on single track whoops, forest service roads and plenty of highway throughout Oregon's Mt Hood area. The suspension did not disappoint (did not bottom once) as opposed to "homey's" description. He should have bought a YZ... The one thing he was right about was the foot pegs - replace them asap! Moose Racing pegs work great!
As the owner of a 2004 Dakar This video is a pretty good description of the bike. The bike is a real good all-rounder. I have used it to commute to work and I have found that it cruises well at 120 to 130K with great fuel mileage. As far as off road goes, the Dakar is a real good logging road bike like the video says, but is too big and heavy for the real narrow rugged stuff. It is fun to ride, but you need excellent off road skills in order to get the most out of it, because of it's size.
I'm 64 this year and I ride mine pretty slow off road so the suspension works just fine . You should have mentioned that the rear suspension is fully adjustable and that it has a marked dial in arms reach so you can adjust it while riding . You have to be doing pretty stupid things to bottom out the front shocks . Just slow your ass down and they will never bottom out even if you weigh over 200 lbs . Fast forward after 11 years and people have figured out these are great bikes and used ones are still between 5 and 7 thousand dollars depending on the miles . Trust me if you can find one for sale grab it fast . The engines are bullet proof and low maintenance . People are reporting over 150,000 miles with only one valve adjustment , so that's hard to beat . The dumb ass in the video didn't even mention that the gas tank is under the seat and low to the ground . This gets rid of the heavy top end like all the other bigger dual sport bikes . Because the weight of the rider and the gas is in the center controlling it on tight single trails through the mountains is a breeze and it handles a lot better than the lighter weight crf 300 l rally in the woods . If you are thinking about getting this bike good luck . Join the facebook sertao groups and check out what this bike can really do from owners . His guy in the video is not a owner or a very good rider . You can tell by the way he was trying to get around the rock at the very end .
😂
Great comment! This video review really wasnt justified for this awesome bike.
A friend of me travelled literally the world and put about 30.000 km on it. He was very happy with it and never even had any serious problems, just some casual normal deterioration.
But very reliable, quite comfortable, lower weight, easy to maneuver, fuel efficient.............the list is long. Perfect travel bike
Exactly what I was thinking!
I'm Really happy with mine overall. I don't understand the constant slam on the Front forks being too tall. or "Spindley" I have never Experienced any of this High speed wobble or mush However you said it. But Hey I'm coming off a 2009 KLR 650. Almost anything is an Improvement on that. You needed the Taller seat for that bike, Makes a huge Difference in the Legs.
My Sertao is perfectly stable up to 140kph. I don't recognize this wobble you speak of.
I had it with those bridgestones on, pretty disxoncerting but I got used to it. Whacked on some metzelers and some contiattack 3's and no wobble =)
"pogo....on the shelves at Toys r' Us"
Too funny!😂
I have had this bike for a year now, I've broke off the rear mud guard and brake light, with a fight, it was fixed by BMW and I added the aftermarket brace. I also changed the motor sprocket to 13T, much much better for off road and climbing with adventure gear. Next is removing the CAT, add a slip on (ordered) and using the old muffler as a tool storage can. Great review, I'm not happy I have to spend $2000 on my bike, but I'm happy I have her.
thank you , Ive a 2009 g650gs , that I bought tore apart put back together painted , That I got past its quirkiness and that, took bait of learning , and watching a lot RUclips , and forums , This bike just wants to go , is it the prettiest nope , but It likes the paint Job , and just gives. Gota love a thumper ,
My 2012 BMW f650gs has been full of factory defects. Nice machine, nice design, but I think all of the people in Berlin must have a hangover when they are putting these machines together - you never know what you are getting. Great video! Thanks!
well, I've riden dirt bykes most of the time, and now at my age, 63, i decided to try a dual, so i got a klr650, old version, great byke, eavy though, so I jumped to a bmw650 (i'm short.!!!) and it looks great ! , will never compare it with a off road bike, never !.. so BMW looks great, can ride it on the road, off road too, but if I want to RIDE... I will jump on my KTM 450 and leave it at that..!!
You make the best video motorcycle reviews on the internet. Gorgeous scenery makes my daily inner city commute annoy me. Well done and keep it up!
i dont mean to be off topic but does anyone know a method to get back into an instagram account??
I was stupid lost my login password. I love any help you can give me
@Aron Vihaan instablaster =)
@Mateo Cyrus i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im trying it out now.
Takes quite some time so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Mateo Cyrus it worked and I finally got access to my account again. I am so happy:D
Thanks so much you saved my ass :D
@Aron Vihaan You are welcome :D
I have the base model of this. With it being shorter and on more road oriented tires, man can this thing carve twisties. Having the gas tank under the seat was a great idea because it feels lighter than it is and more flick-able. Plus is only weighs 423 pounds wet, which most of the more modern adv bikes are stupid heavy. It also gets around 65mpg even when riding like a goon. Stops nice too with the brembos. I was between this and the KLR. Glad I went with this bike. My only complaints are that there is no 6th gear, it has some decent vibration at highway speeds (like any 650 single does), the stock pegs and seat kinda suck too.
I have had mine since 2014 - now got 100 047KM on the clock - not one issue
Sertão is also a renowned rally! The biggest in South America!
a 6 speed box would be nice - but as far as increasing engine performance, if riders take off 10 kgs the body doesn't need then power to weight ratio increases markedly. Suspension may work better too
MrStevecro well I've taken up ultra running and lost over 40. That said, the suspension is still crap.
Yep, it's primarily shot in behind Britannia just off the S2S.
I rode the explorer and it was pretty nice. I own a 800XC and the explorer is not worth the extra 3,000-4,000. I think the Triumph Tiger 800 is the way to go.
We've always had a pretty distinctly Canadian voice to this stuff, since that's where a majority of the test bikes come from. No real claim to be North American, but I will look at including imperial conversions in future videos.
great video.
well done Mr. Johnston and Mr. Miklossy.
i think that the Sertao's headlights have that certain Bill the Cat chic from the F800gs.
Prior to shooting the video we road the bike for about 3 weeks, getting to know it. The video you see is the culmination of that experience. I think you've summed it up with "if you want a bike that is good off road then buy a dirt bike". BMW is overselling this bike given its ride dynamic, which is the point of the video.
This was a dream bike for me but I never bought one. They must not be too bad because they're expensive in the used market.
I recently bought a BMW G310GS and I'm loving it. It's not a dirt bike, but at 60, I'm no longer a dirt rider. I've had small dual sport bikes since 1975 and I'm very happy to finally have a small ADV bike.
Don't ride it below Freezing or your Crankcase evacuation hose will freeze and blow your Valve cover. Yeah I have had it happen 5 times. They blew it with me. PS I have the video's posted to prove it.
Most wobbly front fender I have ever seen.
it lacks some protection for those front forks shiny portions, rubber gators are a must, pitty they didn't made them standard.
Jeremy.
My buddy has the 800xc and it's nice, but I'd take the explorer if I could. I don't ride a hard as I used to and on the hyway, loaded for a few weeks playing on forestry road the explorer is really nice. But I'll stick with the Varadero and see if the price comes down.
Thanks
Im african, so I dont really care about any brand. As long as it works and can keep up with the african heat... My honda seems to always work well. maybe I should look at another of those...
You might want to look at something with a little more stomp and better suspension then. If your a Beemer guy, the F800GS would fit the bill.
I believe it is just south of Squamish by the looks of it. Was also wondering where this was as I have just bought a DR650 and would like to know some good trails to start off with being from Vancouver.
Im not at all convinced by this guys review. It doesnt seem like he knows what he is talking about. I beleive this bike to be a perfect bike for its segment. i remember all the same shitty comments about the dakar when it came out and then 10 years later everyone was saying its the best bike ever... I ride a 800 and in my opinion was the worst buy I made in my life and is the cause to me probably not buying a bmw ever again in my life... as you said this video seemed very negative from the onset
I stand corrected.
I also heard they have a notorious hot starting problem that the F650GS didnt have. You need to check the forums for further info.
Look I don't know much about bikes , but , I think it has the exact same engine as the normal bike .
Willem Oldewage He is referring to the difference between the original F and current G engine which is the same design,but different manufacturer...no longer a Rotax built engine..(both F&G are common engines with their respective Dakar/Sertao)...
A helpful review, thank you.
It would really depend on the speed you expect to handle the highways at, by 70mph I found the bike pretty wobbly. You might want to look at something like the KTM 690 Enduro, which while skewed towards the dirt end of the spectrum has much better on road manners.
It's not that I hate metric it's that I dislike the holier-than-thou attitude of those who've been indoctrinated into thinking it's superior. It is, after all, just another way to measure things by marking off a standard distance or volume...etc. Nothing against Canadians on my part at all.
Rode from Niagara Falls to Port Huron on a Canadian Holiday. It was flat and well maintained but it was a crowded speedway!
I've got a low miles 2006 F650GS and it could deffo do with a 6th gear on the Highway . It has the 19"/17" spoked wheels so is better suited to short asses like me . ( 5'8" ) The seat comfort is awful so I added a gel cushion and sheepskin on top . It is a fun bike up to about 70 mph /120kph on tighter A and B roads . With 20/80 off road tyres (Mitas E 09s ) it copes ok with mud and gravel but these are way to vibey for the tarmac . I'm changing to Mitas MC24 TRAIL INVADER's as I do much more road . Fuel consumption is excellent , covering an average of 72 + Mpg or 3.92 L / 100 Km regardless of speed . It will sit at 80mph on the Motorway but that's not a particularly nice place to be due to the poor wind protection and lack of the 6th gear . Generally a good B road twisty bike .This bike wasn't built for Giants like you M8 ,that's more your skyscraper KTMs , Africa Twin and 1200 GS territory . Nice video and Fabulous scenery , thanks for taking the time .
What is the difference between the Dakar and Sertao? My belief was it was just remade so why does the Sertao get a bad review?
Good review, many thanks.
Near the beginning you did say something like "...no real claim to north America..." that
got me on my high horse.
Re: ugliness: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
sounds like a plan... enjoy it
To be honest I was going to throw in subtitles, but forgot in the rush to pack for a trip. The great and powerful Google will supply the conversions as needed. Just file metric as one of our Canadian charms, not an ugliness. ;)
Actually, I wanted to know more about it's highway capability. I live in Arizona and travel long distances out here in the West to get to my choice gravel roads.
Thanks for the reply. I actually go 80mph as the speed limits are 75 out here
clever review, thanks
Love mine,can't fault it.
hey is this in BC? it looks so familiar Vancouver island? near Courtney?
So lets say you wanted the ability to carry camping gear and a "hefty" rider at 80MPH for long distance, and wanted to maintain a decent level of off road capability but didn't want the massive heft of one of the monster enduro's. Would this fit the bill? Or do you need to look at one of the ~800cc enduros that are out there?
Thanks it would be much appreciated!
I'm glad I didn't bite, when it tempted me a year ago. I'm much happier on my Tiger XCx. The 1200 GS is still the world traveler, but as middleweights go Triumph has taken the off-road lead away from the 800 GS. The WP suspension clinches it, and having cruise control for the highway is a great bonus.
The Sertao would have been a wee bit lighter and nimbler off road, but is definitely NOT the all day highway cruiser that the Triumph is.
Overall, what does the Sertao do for you that a Honda enduro doesn't? It wants to be a dirt bike, but isn't. And it's not up to much on the freeway, compared to the 800 GS or the Tiger. So....what the heck is it? A very expensive wannabe Honda, that's what.
Imagine what you could built from a Honda with all that money you saved! At the very least you could buy a nice trailer and drive to the trailhead in air conditioned comfort.
Great review .
Damn nice bike too :-)
This bike has been around the world ten fold , so you cant knock it ok . Your demo shows a massive guy over 100 kilos - 16 stone on a bike . This guy needs a 1150 , 1200 gs ok
Load of tosh
Great thanks for the post!
LOL - I was going to comment on that, but it seemed so evident in the video it wasn't required.
I love mine! it's a 2013 so starting issues, front fender bracket and whatever are factory solved. I've posted my own (unprofessional) real world brief review.
I don't recall you saying anything positive about this bike, it appears you had a negative opinion of the bike before you had a chance to test it, but then again i could be wrong. Honestly i don't see anything wrong with it. It's an adventure bike; it was made to be comfortable on and off road. It also appears the bike is not made for a 6'2" person if you're saying it is awkward to sit on with your legs on the foot pegs.
If you want a bike that is good off road than buy a dirt bike
Well your average BMW rider has a wobbly front fender too, but they make a little blue pill for that.
"Overselling?" Hmmm. Interesting concept. Most companies that want people to buy their products "oversell" in hopes that potential buyers turn into actual buyers.
like how front nose did blam blam blam on every roughness
I went to dealers and they had 1 old dakar and now the sertao. What I found was: all the aspects of the old bike, that needed fixing, had not been done, all the things that were just fine - were messed up. Now, it is a good beginner bike whatever You do - but it is no adventure bike and it feels cheap chinese plastik compared to the older Dakar. I skipped, went with KTM adventure and will never look towards that "chinese" again nor recommend it...
Great video! POS bike! I'll take a KLR any day. Speaking of crazy over priced, have you ridden the Triumph Explorer? Really crisp power, love the on road feel and no chain rocks. Price sucks! Real world price is close $35.000. That's trade in and 10 years of $260 a month payments. Holy!
My personal experience with them was absolutely shocking. too many problems, recalls, lies etc... The sales people were very nice and friendly on a personal level. but the company related decisions and relations were just shocking. I have already had my fights with them on several forums etc... Im not too interested in going into debates again about this whole thing. All i can say, is, theres something orange, starting with a K in my near future. BMW can stick its road assistance, nobody cares
I miss using Imperial...I like Fahrenheit, miles, quarts....-and if it makes you
feel better....I AM CANADIAN...-and I don't like most of them...[ but we do live on the best Biking roads in the World...empty, good surface..at least a few months a year.....AND your American Ladies say I'm really, really
good looking]
This is the most disappointing bike review I've seen for a while, and the least accurate review of this bike.
The 800 was that bad?....-even with the Roadside\ Service etc.?....I honestly
thought you couldn't go wrong w\ a Bimmer.....what's the beef with them?
thx, we'd like to hear....
Yeah miss stuff like 3 and 17/32nds of an inch.....
In reality there's no compelling reason to upgrade. I'd save the money and pour it into suspension and such.
Those some pretty sorry ass shocks. Great video review as always though.
Pan orange lab rebel.
There is a reason the rest of the world now use (and have for some time now) the metric system. Because its easier more logical, accurate, and transferable.....because quite simply its better. When the British who invented the imperial measurement standard dropped it to take on the metric system made by there much hated old Parisian enemy that should have been a pretty good indicator. I hope america has a better time adapting to the current changing world now or it will not do so well.
I don't think I will be shelling out the extra cash for this thing...doesn't seem like it is worth that much more than the Japanese rivals, other than hoses & more expensive/harder to get parts...
Just my opinion...
Later.
I'm different...the Canadian Prairie Pavement is endless...and the
true test of a machine is how much cold it can take.....the roads here
can Eat a Superbike, lotsa 'Busa's etc....I'm on a little island now, where ANY bike is big; windy wet roads etc, I've got Star V-Twin
..Gixxer...-and doing a deal on tricked out Triumph Daytona...
I assume your South African?...In BC, CAN..we bike from desert
through rain forest and serious mountains to 'north pole' [Dempster hiway]..for 4 months\year. crazy
If I put marks on a stick at some arbitrary distance evenly space apart does this mean my system is more 'logical'? Logical is word applied to systems that have rules of inference. Measurement doesn't.
By your criteria, Latin should still be used. It was the language of scholars, mathematicians and scientists in which inference was done (to prove theorems you need rules of inference) and science, philosophy was discussed.
America put a man on the moon in 1969 with the English system.
you're just behind the times. time to catch up dont' you think?
SO basically what you want is an F800GS...
those forks are accident waiting to happen indeed...
No..you just think you're ahead of the times when you're really no where at all.
Besides ol Neil claims to be doing the review for "North America". Last I checked that
included America too.
feet on the foot pegs*
You sir need to understand that there are two countries in the world that rely upon old imperial units, like gallons, inches, etc, one of those countries is Liberia in Africa and You the USA. We the world (all area out side your country) use metric which is somewhat larger and has a slightly higher population. You would be one of those Yanks with their head up their ass thinking that the USA is the world would you? For an Australian this has been a good review.
Glad to hear it...I'm Austrian myself;....Germany has always been our
bitches..HA!....I mean; Enjoy your next Ride! thx.
Exactly...Drum to Wayne [Alberta's best kept secret] ..Athabaska.
to Jasper-Banff Parkway then south to Radium HotSprings....if you have time, British Columbia is a trip unto itself...But the run to Atha
B will have you break land speed records....nothing!....-and
Bwokentoof is typical of the characters we have Up North...it's God-Forsaken..-and you might find that Canadians aren't all that
bad...except our women....THEY ARE HORRIBLE...generally
speaking....Ride Safe...CWS
kilos, kilometers ... what, is this a 3rd world country you're from ? Speak American .
In respect to standard measures, the US is a third world country, any conversion to imperial messures is an accommodation to that singular outlier.
The English wanted to join the EU. If you're going to be part of economic unit you need a common set of weights and standards.
I have heard your "its easier more logical, accurate, and transferable" many times before. It's as if you've been indoctrinated. I don't say the English system is better. I say it's the system I've use all my life and understand.
The French Revolution was bloody and the metric system was dreamed up by one of the useful idiots that took part in it. He got beheaded!
Hope you’re not one of those individuals, who tend to hang on for dear life to their own stubborn, deep biass against anything metric, cause your old men told you so? Take it from a retired tool/diemaker, machinist aswell as a fully qualified gunmaker: metric was even adapted in Britain straight after WWII, some 3 decades before I started apprenticing, well before the Euro existed and I’m 60 right now! Wether you like it or not, metric rules allover the globe: just guess why even their past most staunch opponents, the Yanks, who have also been using for these past 3 decades and are still using it in all their present aerospace & military equipment fabrication applications and this for very simple reason! I’m not going to explain it, as the other guy already explained it perfectly well, but I guess it might be still damn hard to grasp for those who are ignorant from nature or haven’t been around in modern industrial environments enough or are in the building industry profession or something, cheers, lol 😝!
the suspension in this bike is garbage and its too expensive to be sold with these...
This didnt age well. Even nowdays more than 10 years after the release, it is still remaining at a great value and very much respected.
The engine is totally fine, unless you weight 300 pounds and go 60 miles per hour offroad.