Spot on with all the comments, as noted by a fellow G650GS owner. Cheap to buy, cheap to run, can sort of do it all, okayish kinda bike. I have owned it for 5 trouble free years and its taken me all over South Africa and Namibia. Never had any issues keeping up with my GS1200 and KTM mates (except for open roads maybe). What a little all rounder bike with a can-do attitude. If it was a dog it would probably be a Jack Russel. Cool vid. Thanks
Nice review from someone, who really used it as intended! The 650 Sertao was my first bike and I kept it for 3 years. I also added lots of farkles and despite a lighter exhaust, I probably ended up with more weight than stock. Though I never came anywhere near its limitations, I finally sold it and got the 650 Xchallenge instead. For me, the X is a lot sexier, more fun and still capable of touring, but I will always have a special place in my heart for the Sertao and I think that is a great do-it-all-bike. Just like the bigger GS-models it is more capable than most riders assume (because of looks, weight or being a BMW). But being from Munich, I might be biased. ;-) Greetings from Germany!
BMW SERTAO is definitely not ugly. It's a beautifull (and I put two L's in there on purpose) bike that lives up to the standards of beauty up to this day!
Great review. I have the G650gs and have just done a 17,000km (3,000km of gravel) trip in Alaska, Canada, USA and the bike was absolutely bombproof. Great bike 🏍️❤️
I have a 2001 Dakar. Love this bike. Great gas mileage…65-70mpg, very comfy seat, a little in the heavy side, fuel injection, 5 speed. Did the Continental Divide ride last summer w/o a hiccup!
How did it handle off road sections. I haven't really seen anyone out of first gear, during off road review. Prospective buyer, intending mud tires and lower gearing for first modification as a woods bike.
@@movaughn20 It did well on the off road sections. I had Shinko 804/805s on. Stock bash plate. Engine guards. Stock panniers. Cruised everything w/o any trouble; even rocky off camber rutty roads.
Sertao owner here, have watched all your videos and thoroughly enjoyed them. I totally agree with all you mention, I also do all of my own maintenance too and love this bike to bits. I do have a few bikes also. A k1600GT, older Ducati Multistrada. The sertao and two 2 stroke dirt bikes, a 250 RM and a Yamaha road legal DT125. Out of all of them the Sertao for me also is the do everything and probably the one I would also keep if I had to only have one bike. Due to your other video, I tracked down a touratech suspension kit that includes front and rear dynamic springs, hopefully will have time to fit them soon. Keep up the great videos mate 👍🏼
Very well done and non-pretentious review. I am on my second 2007 F650GS (I took 5 years on a big 1200 but missed the 650 so returned). These bikes share a lot with your Sertao. I have a combined 58,000 miles on them and like you, had a near perfect performance record, however, the steering head bearings are made of cheese and only had about 25,000 miles in them before notching. My water pumps were bullet proof but some owners have nonstop water pump problems. Agree the switches are fragile and difficult to repair - better to replace when they act out. Turn signal stalks look to flex but rather, break on crashes. Easily replaced with inexpensive knockoffs. I opted for soft fork socks that seem to work well. I would suggest getting the FI versions of the 650 engine whenever possible especially if you move between sea level and mountains and you don't like repairing and re-jetting carbs. I love the stock exhaust's ability to silence - what some call the "angry lawnmower" sound. The former ChainGang website seems to be aging out but there was a wealth of info on there for self-mechanicing and the archives are still available or available on disc. Wish there was a plug in diagnostic tool for digital check up (like the 911 for the bigger Beemers). Amen on the hockey puck footpeg add on or one can go with the touratech version. Easy to grind hard bits on tarmac leaning but a nice warning before tire traction is lost in the dry. I would also add the warnings of others that the needle bearings in the swingarm hinge need grease but I dread that maintenance move and try not to submerge mine. Lee
Brilliant review Pez, and a brilliant bike... I think you are harsh calling it ugly though, I am quite fond of how it looks, and really enjoyed the brief spin I had on it too! 🙂
When I first found your channel I remember vaguely saying something along the lines of Beamers not being my cup o' tea(for better or worse lol), and I still cant see myself having one yet, but you've done BMW and yourself a great service with this review! The review is a peach and it turns out the bike is one heck of a sturdy tool that you've made look 'fun' to maintain as well as ride. How many reviewers out there can convince you to get your mitts grubby!? NIL. 👏 It's not ugly in the least but it still does have saggy tits! 😜
Mine has all the farkles and I get compliments on it everywhere I go - even from non motorcycle folks. I was at a bar once talking bikes and the guy I was talking too had pictures of my bike from years earlier!
First year of the G650GS ABS may or may not be standard. It was an option, part of a "Safety package" here in Canada. Mine has neither ABS nor the 4-way/hazard lights.
That was a fantastic review. Very informative. I love your honest opinion on the pro's and con's on this bike. Definitely helped us along the way to choose the right bike!
Small point, the BMW F650 Dakar is fuel injected and has basically the same Rotax engine as the Sertao ( A tiny bit more powerful infact). Maybe you were thinking of the prior gen "Funduro"?
"Sir tun oh"! Sertão is a Brazilian word used to designate a region in particular that is a mixture of forest and desert (similar to what exists in Africa), a wild region, far from urban centers and cultivated lands.
I’ve got too many bikes, but you have reminded me why I love my G650GS so much! It’s the one I’m taking abroad - because of it’s reliable engine and the fact that I can pick it up single handed, if I drop it!
Cool review. I'm in Western USA and have racked up 50K miles my 2012 Sertao including 4,000 mile solo trip to Baja California. My AltRider crash bars broke both sides at the frame-mount weld so replaced with TouraTechs. The tubular frame under luggage rack cracked in two places so ordered a new one and had a support plate welded and is so far holding up (carrying too much shit I assume). Got stranded first time ever last month when my clutch cable snapped at grip - my bad for not pulling back boot to inspect. I'm not nearly as mechanical as you and service in the USA is expensive - mechanic told me the Sertao is the second hardest BMW to service. I upgraded my suspension too, have a taller seat, Cee Bailey 14" windscreen, center stand, and just about every other upgrade Touratech sells for this bike. I LOVE this bike. When my economic situation gets better in few years I'll sell it to a ute and buy an 800 Adventure. Cheers!
I hate to break it to you, but your mechanic is full of shit. This is a pretty simple bike period, and one of the most accessible BMWs to work on. It's a thumper for God's sake.
He dragged the carpet from under my feet when i heard the dakar had carburetor. Thanks for clearing that up. I’m on the used market looking for a dakar right now, i’ve put my eyes on a red 2005 year model. Can’t wait to get it
I recently bought a 2001 gs version, so far I’m loving it, it’s a different beast from the Tiger 885i I had but the BMW is just a great fun bike to ride
I can definitely see why you would keep the BMW over the Honda, makes total sense. I was still sorry to see the Honda go though. Don’t really make a similar bike today? Ktm do the 690 or like you said there is the T7 but there too expensive for me. I’m hoping royal Enfield will pull something out of the bag with the 450 that’s getting talked about.
There all lovely bikes but there is no way I could bring myself to spend 10k on a bike! I just can’t warrant that for a hobby. I suppose it’s different if you are very well off and wouldn’t miss the money?. The XT660 might be a good idea for the future but for now I’ll have to stick with the CRF250l 🙂
@@BigPezza Do you think the early model Honda Transalp could be a reasonable alternative to the Sertao? I do enjoy watching yootoober 'Pedro Moto' getting about on one Malle Moto style round Europe.
I realise this was posted a year ago but I've only just seen it and had to comment. I have a G650GS and just added F650GS rear and Dakar front wheel, easy mod for the front but obviously not adjustable. I added HyperPro springs which are great and it means I also have a second set of tubeless wheels for road specific riding (though probably could go off road on them tbh). For various reasons I ended up keeping the stock rear shock and found the height better anyway, also the centre stand still works well enough for servicing. I did a 10K mile ride to Armenia and back last year and also use it as a daily rider, I'm very fond of it. Like you, I do all my own maintenance. I added crash bars and it came with an aftermarket belly pan, I like its looks but I'm fairly old so it probably doesn't count. I also have an F650GS I'm refurbing which I also love. I agree with everything you said (apart from the looks) but you forgot to mention the jumping out of first gear at the lights or intersections, it's a pita and I haven't found a solution as yet, however, it hasn't put me off enough to worry too much about it. Great bike and as you say, it does everything adequately. I was in Australia at the end of last year and bought a G310GS for the time I was there, it was also a great bike, however much prettier, it's not as torquey but still has that GS DNA and was also suprisingly comfortable for the big mileage I was doing. Apart from the torque and being a lot lighter, it had similar performance to the 650 and was also very cheap to run. Anyway, love your vids, all local roads to me so always wonder if I'm familiar with the roads you ride. Look forward to catching up with your videos. Ride safe 🙂
@@BigPezza Wow, ok, maybe it's just my bike. I was told it had been abused a bit by a former owner and my F650GS also jumps out of first so I thought it was inherent, might have to look at it when I do the clutch. Thanks for replying :-)
Dakar FI owner here. Love mine, the only problem I have with it is a fuel leak which I suspect is similar to the one you had, impossibility to find spare parts for cracked fairings(help) and that I have to replace fork seals. Other than that the bike is a tank.
Great review man! Thanks very much! Just one small thing, there is to versions of the Dakar model! The one you mentioned (carbureted) and the one i have that is the twin spark fue injected Dakar! They made it from 2005 to 2007. Same bike, almost same motor (little bit more powerful in the dakar) and 100% made in Germany (except the Rotax of course). I don’t have too much money to go around the world in a bike so after years looking for a bike to to d job i choose this one! Also 350km per 14 liter tank is the same than my last scooter and i really dont know any moto with 50hp that burns so little fuel🙃! 🙏
I've had a Dakar ('05) for seven years. I do my own work, as well. The side stand extender is a must. I lost one, and ended up using epoxy to fix its replacement better. These bikes lean way too much. Wayyy too much. EFI appeared on these in '04, I think. So if anyone is looking for a bike like the Sertao, the Dakar is like the uglier older sister who's also a good kisser. Just gotta close your eyes on the way in? Buy it if it's in good shape and miles low. Cheers from Korea, E 🏍
Terrific in-depth candid review !! What are the 650 engine and that horsepower you're saying that he can't cruise easily at 75 on the highway? How is it going on uphill stretches on the highway? and with a headwind? Thx mate USA
its around 50bhp. but i did mean comfortable cruising, yes it can sit at 80mph and i have got it to just under 100mph but its a single cylinder so not comfortale on Motways or Highways as you call them.
Hey man! Honestly one of the best reviews out there because you were so informative and unbiased. I needed to hear the pros but MAINLY the cons and you helped me so much so thank you! Any advice for me before I possibly buy this bike? Any other bikes you might suggest? I'm 178cm, 70kg and a beginner rider super keen on adventuring and using this bike to commute to work.
For Beginners I would suggest getting a lighter bike for off-road. It can be hard work sometimes with a heavy lump. Thr crf250 is a great starter bike for adventure riding. I had one for many years and used it as a daily driver for quite a while as well
My wife and I have 2 G650GS's now modified with better suspension and loads of other shit. 53K Miles so far but for now we only use them as a winter bike. Bought them Cheap second hand to do a trip from Argentina to Alaksa (and back to Florida to ship home) we lost a few weeks of our 12 month trip due to overheating (the 2011 ones had the F650 fans) and because of ham fisted dealers in South America (They were still under warranty) The IGN off was a pita having to take the false tank cover off when it happened (still happens) Water pump failure on both at around 30 Miles. Not a show stopper. Fan failure in Anchorage, we had to wat 2 weeks to get the replacement. Great bikes, maybe should have bought a Seratao?
Funny thing is that i have a 2004 Dakar, this yaer i bought F800 because 50hp on F650 struggle when I ride with my wife and luggage. And you know what ... when I ride alone I still chose to ride Dakar:)
Fantastic review i'm a happy Spanish owner and my opinion is exactly the same! I love the bikes and is impossible to find other with these features... It's ugly yes... But you need a lot of money to buy a new similar one...
getting used to the quirky cid control unit , and the once in a while , warm engine stop for gas , and cranks no start , which usually means that the battery is low on charge , or loses connection , so one of those wonderful , battery jumpers that are not much bigger then a power brick for a computer , and almost forgot the starting procedure , holding the starting button of 2-4 seconds so the cid unit reprograms or whatever , has been a must have , its just too easy to forget that 30 minutes and the bike will start no problem , and crank that engine and drain the battery 🤪, on the fuel injected ones , this bike just wants to go go go , 09 g650gs that I bought at 300 am on the Mexican use border , on a busy sidewalk , like its some kind of , illegal deal , got love a thumper , 30 to 40 seconds of listening , that motor will tell you what's uo , drove it home to LA , tore it apart the next day , put it back together , gave it a rattle can paint job , well to be honest it was 4 times before I got the feel for using the rattle cans so cheep paint and sand it down prep and do it again , fifth time bought da good stuff , bike looks like, well it cleans up great , and its nice to be able to put my feet on the street at a stop , not my toes , don't get me wrong I loved my old f800 and the f650 I had , just not so much a weird stop on uneven ground, thank you for your videos , I do all my own work too , and watch a lot of you tube 😎 sincerely David G Schoenoff
Okay one more question: Thanks again for the great video! I have found a 2012 Sertao in my area (29K KMs) and honestly dying to buy it but... There is quite an audible knocking sound in the engine while accelerating AND it has that known Hot-Start issue. Have you run into anything like that on your Sertao, through all your lengthy adventuring? Curious to know any potential fixes. Thanks!
@@BigPezza The Dakar started in 2001 (which I have) and they are all fuel injection. The Funduro had a carb. All F650GS from 2000 on have fuel injection.
Great review, amigo. I’ve got a CRF300L Rally which is a tremendously fun and friendly bike. I absolutely love it. However, I’d be curious to ride the g650gs sertao and compare the two. If you have access to a CRF300L Rally, you should definitely take it for a spin and make a comparison video.
Had a CRF 250 for 8 years, there a great starter bike but the BMW just handles better on and off-road. But the CRF is less daunting for newer off-road riders. But I know a few who's first off-road bike was a 650 BMW or even the 800
hey, nice video ! i own a Sertao and im starting to mod a few things here and there i have an issue with Wind noise on my Helmet. it gets very loud above 100km/h and im thinking the smaller windscreen might actually make the noise better i dont really whant a taller screen becouse it looks rediculus to me personally so do you think a smaller one makes sence ?? or shouldn't i even try that?
also im thinking of swapping the seat to a F650GS Seat becouse of the plusher patting im tall so the seathight doesmt matter it would actually improove my rather steep knew angle.
Hmm, I'm thinking of getting a 650gs as a first on/off road bike, have other bikes but road bikes and want a beginner friendly trail / off road bike that I can also ride to trails. Not so sure after watching reviews.
I'm have to replace my DR650. How is the Sertaos drop-ability? It appears that you are an expert. I'm not being weird but the DR rarely gets damaged when dropped. But the sertao I'm not so sure. I've just finished an around Aust trip where the DR's primitive nature is a blessing. My remote travel days are over. So the sertao seems like the perfect bike.
@BigPezza cheers mate. I'd like to as I've just finished an around Australia ride on the old girl (she's a 96) but it's just been written off by the insurance company due to a 18 y.o rear ending me whilst texting half way through the trip. I've got bigger adventure bikes plus an old funduro. The 30 extra kg of the sertao is the stumbling block for me. And how she handles a drop or ten on the tracks. Yours seems to have survived quite well. I could get another DR as its primitive nature makes for easy fault diagnosis and agricultural repairs in very remote areas but the sertao has always appealed to me as a great option.
Hi. Just watched your video. I also have a Sertao. I am 5’9, have a 33 inch inseam, and even have a seat concepts seat that lowers the seat height to about 33.1 inches, and I’m still not flat footed. How are you able to comfortably ride your Sertao? I wouldn’t think you could even touch the ground. Did you make other modifications to bring down the seat height? Mine is a 2013…..
No F650GS Dakar was carbureted as far as I know. I have an ‘05 which is basically the same as yours with a 17l tank, higher seat and different headlight assembly. The stock skid plate is useless
I've had both. Personally I like the character of the single better. For two up touring the twin is better. Oil changes are easier on the twin, but I like the single having less electronics to worry about breaking in the future. Pros and cons to both. All depends on where and how you want to ride them.
Man… I mean I don’t get it. I’m looking to buy my first trail ever and I’m looking towards 650GS BUT from what I see online it’s a 798cc twin from 2008 to 2013; also 19 inch front 17 back. It looks like yours isn’t the same bike AT ALL… I’m confused lol
I am looking at a 2005 model with a little under 18k on the odometer. What would any of you consider as high mileage and what this bike can do as far as life mileage on this motor. Oh, the guy wants 3995.00, and I want to offer him 3k even. Any thoughts. It is showroom condition. All American currency and miles, not kilometers
I have a Sertao too and I would LOVE to love it BUT... there is a major issue I have with it. Maybe you or other watchers can help me out here: The footpeg-plate is SO unbelievable weak that as soon as the bike touches the ground (and that does happen offroad) the plate is bending inwards. Especially the left one. And that is very bad because it is always coming so close to the gear-foot-lever that not only the whole peg is then standing in an upwards angle but also shifting could become a problem (even though that at least didnt happen to me). But a real problem is the bending in general. I already went through 3 of those footpeg-plates within 1 year of ownership. Does someone know a place to get more sturdy ones to get rid of that problem?? My goal is to travel the TET slovenia and croatia and I dont see me doing this with those footpegs:-(
My bike has been down more times then I can even remember or count. the footpegs have been fine, are you using the OEM ones or bigger aftermarket ones ?🤔 On the 650 forum I have never seen that as a major issue with these bikes
@@BigPezza Hi! I got my 2012 sertao almost new in 2013, my first bike and i regret nothing. I 100% agree with what you say, mines not that off road tortured but i dont pamper it either, i have no idea how many times i dropped it. The second drop though, a rear ender in a roundabout on wet road (as a beginner) actually bent the left foot peg bracket like @no idea said. Nothing a vice, a heavy hammer, some paint and determination cant fix though. Dropping it on dirt or large gravel never broke anything and even the scratches are minor (same experience with the peli cases). Two things that made me break down though: Corroded battery pole, never thought a bike could start but then not sustain running from something like that, took me half a day to figure it out.... Second: NEVER drop ANY dirt into the oil reservoir!!!!! I did an oil change and most likely had some bigger grain of sand on the rag i wiped the dipstick with. There is NO screen before the oil enters the first oil pump, it will cease up instantly within the first miles of riding and the bad thing is, its driven by a plastic gear with a 3mm cross pin on a shaft behind the clutch. You block the pump, the gear(s) explode into a bunch of plastic fragments that spread through the engine since the scavenge pump can still work if you are unlucky. The 3mm hardened drive pin if then free to fly away from the shaft without the gear keeping it in place and its in the same compartment as the big gear driving the compensation shaft. At this point you are playing russian roulette, if the pin flies between the gears, it will most likely split your engine block in two. That said, in my case the pump stopped working, the chain tentioner was limp and i heard it rattling for longer than usual, took a week to clean the engine and glue back together the ground up gears to make sure i got every flake. Replacement gears were 6€ each and the bike is now >80000km running like a dream, first clutch, first brake disks, thanks to oiler only second set of chains, blinkers fell off, rubber stuff and the stupid rear glove compartment hatch was lost in the first month back then, it only stays in place when locked by key. Would not want a different bike :)
I am about 10 stone (64kg ish ). the bike can handle alot, rider and pillion with luggage is over 150kg but you would have to take one for a test ride and see. Maybe check with BMW what the upper limit is as well
Okay form what I am reading the seat height of the Sertao is actually higher than the g650gs and the f650gs! Can you tell me what the actual height is. I mean I'm a short guy with an inseam of only 30".
@@BigPezza Ohh LOL 😆 well you're probably a better rider than I am, man! I like the idea of this bike and found one on sale but it's a 7 hour drive from me... Didn't want to waste time, the seat height is the deal-breaker after all. Thanks !
Well, I wouldn't say it's ugly, but at nearly 200kg, I think it's heavy. I mean, T7 is 204kg and it's a twin. XT600 is 170kg wet. 200kg just seems too much for a single.
Spot on with all the comments, as noted by a fellow G650GS owner. Cheap to buy, cheap to run, can sort of do it all, okayish kinda bike. I have owned it for 5 trouble free years and its taken me all over South Africa and Namibia. Never had any issues keeping up with my GS1200 and KTM mates (except for open roads maybe). What a little all rounder bike with a can-do attitude. If it was a dog it would probably be a Jack Russel. Cool vid. Thanks
This video is brilliant. Nice work mate 👍 hands down the best GS 650 video iv seen so far
Nice review from someone, who really used it as intended! The 650 Sertao was my first bike and I kept it for 3 years. I also added lots of farkles and despite a lighter exhaust, I probably ended up with more weight than stock. Though I never came anywhere near its limitations, I finally sold it and got the 650 Xchallenge instead. For me, the X is a lot sexier, more fun and still capable of touring, but I will always have a special place in my heart for the Sertao and I think that is a great do-it-all-bike. Just like the bigger GS-models it is more capable than most riders assume (because of looks, weight or being a BMW). But being from Munich, I might be biased. ;-) Greetings from Germany!
BMW SERTAO is definitely not ugly. It's a beautifull (and I put two L's in there on purpose) bike that lives up to the standards of beauty up to this day!
Great review. I have the G650gs and have just done a 17,000km (3,000km of gravel) trip in Alaska, Canada, USA and the bike was absolutely bombproof. Great bike 🏍️❤️
I have a 2001 Dakar. Love this bike. Great gas mileage…65-70mpg, very comfy seat, a little in the heavy side, fuel injection, 5 speed. Did the Continental Divide ride last summer w/o a hiccup!
How did it handle off road sections. I haven't really seen anyone out of first gear, during off road review. Prospective buyer, intending mud tires and lower gearing for first modification as a woods bike.
@@movaughn20 It did well on the off road sections. I had Shinko 804/805s on. Stock bash plate. Engine guards. Stock panniers. Cruised everything w/o any trouble; even rocky off camber rutty roads.
Sertao owner here, have watched all your videos and thoroughly enjoyed them. I totally agree with all you mention, I also do all of my own maintenance too and love this bike to bits.
I do have a few bikes also. A k1600GT, older Ducati Multistrada. The sertao and two 2 stroke dirt bikes, a 250 RM and a Yamaha road legal DT125. Out of all of them the Sertao for me also is the do everything and probably the one I would also keep if I had to only have one bike.
Due to your other video, I tracked down a touratech suspension kit that includes front and rear dynamic springs, hopefully will have time to fit them soon.
Keep up the great videos mate 👍🏼
Very well done and non-pretentious review. I am on my second 2007 F650GS (I took 5 years on a big 1200 but missed the 650 so returned). These bikes share a lot with your Sertao. I have a combined 58,000 miles on them and like you, had a near perfect performance record, however, the steering head bearings are made of cheese and only had about 25,000 miles in them before notching. My water pumps were bullet proof but some owners have nonstop water pump problems. Agree the switches are fragile and difficult to repair - better to replace when they act out. Turn signal stalks look to flex but rather, break on crashes. Easily replaced with inexpensive knockoffs. I opted for soft fork socks that seem to work well. I would suggest getting the FI versions of the 650 engine whenever possible especially if you move between sea level and mountains and you don't like repairing and re-jetting carbs. I love the stock exhaust's ability to silence - what some call the "angry lawnmower" sound. The former ChainGang website seems to be aging out but there was a wealth of info on there for self-mechanicing and the archives are still available or available on disc. Wish there was a plug in diagnostic tool for digital check up (like the 911 for the bigger Beemers). Amen on the hockey puck footpeg add on or one can go with the touratech version.
Easy to grind hard bits on tarmac leaning but a nice warning before tire traction is lost in the dry. I would also add the warnings of others that the needle bearings in the swingarm hinge need grease but I dread that maintenance move and try not to submerge mine. Lee
Brilliant review Pez, and a brilliant bike... I think you are harsh calling it ugly though, I am quite fond of how it looks, and really enjoyed the brief spin I had on it too! 🙂
you got the beer goggles on again ? 😅
@@BigPezza hahaha 😆
When I first found your channel I remember vaguely saying something along the lines of Beamers not being my cup o' tea(for better or worse lol), and I still cant see myself having one yet, but you've done BMW and yourself a great service with this review! The review is a peach and it turns out the bike is one heck of a sturdy tool that you've made look 'fun' to maintain as well as ride. How many reviewers out there can convince you to get your mitts grubby!? NIL. 👏
It's not ugly in the least but it still does have saggy tits! 😜
Mine has all the farkles and I get compliments on it everywhere I go - even from non motorcycle folks. I was at a bar once talking bikes and the guy I was talking too had pictures of my bike from years earlier!
@@angrywhitemale1195 haha, that is kinda xool
I'm not even half way through and this is already hands down my favorite review of this bike. I like it better than my own lol. Great video Pezz.
First year of the G650GS ABS may or may not be standard. It was an option, part of a "Safety package" here in Canada. Mine has neither ABS nor the 4-way/hazard lights.
I was fueling up within about 25 km after the low fuel light came on. About 15 miles. Sounds like I could go a lot further?
On the standard g650 but sertaos where all made the same, abs heated grips standard
Personal best was 190 miles before filling up but I normally fill up around the 150 that petrol light makes me nervous,😅😃
@@BigPezza how far after the gas light came on do you normally push?
That was a fantastic review. Very informative. I love your honest opinion on the pro's and con's on this bike. Definitely helped us along the way to choose the right bike!
Small point, the BMW F650 Dakar is fuel injected and has basically the same Rotax engine as the Sertao ( A tiny bit more powerful infact). Maybe you were thinking of the prior gen "Funduro"?
The Sertao had the engine made in China.
Hey man, found your review today and have a Sertão too for almost 5 years and 60.000km. Can't change a thing in all that you said. Nice video!
"Sir tun oh"! Sertão is a Brazilian word used to designate a region in particular that is a mixture of forest and desert (similar to what exists in Africa), a wild region, far from urban centers and cultivated lands.
I’ve got too many bikes, but you have reminded me why I love my G650GS so much! It’s the one I’m taking abroad - because of it’s reliable engine and the fact that I can pick it up single handed, if I drop it!
Great review. It's not ugly -- eye of the beholder and all that...
Yeah and I say it's ugly 🤣
@@BigPezza hahaaaaa!
I've had it for 20 years...and I don't want to change it!!
Cool review. I'm in Western USA and have racked up 50K miles my 2012 Sertao including 4,000 mile solo trip to Baja California. My AltRider crash bars broke both sides at the frame-mount weld so replaced with TouraTechs. The tubular frame under luggage rack cracked in two places so ordered a new one and had a support plate welded and is so far holding up (carrying too much shit I assume). Got stranded first time ever last month when my clutch cable snapped at grip - my bad for not pulling back boot to inspect. I'm not nearly as mechanical as you and service in the USA is expensive - mechanic told me the Sertao is the second hardest BMW to service. I upgraded my suspension too, have a taller seat, Cee Bailey 14" windscreen, center stand, and just about every other upgrade Touratech sells for this bike. I LOVE this bike. When my economic situation gets better in few years I'll sell it to a ute and buy an 800 Adventure. Cheers!
I hate to break it to you, but your mechanic is full of shit. This is a pretty simple bike period, and one of the most accessible BMWs to work on. It's a thumper for God's sake.
You do realise F650 Dakar is also fuel injected? Only the early F650 (no GS) manufactured pre 2000 had carburetors
He dragged the carpet from under my feet when i heard the dakar had carburetor. Thanks for clearing that up. I’m on the used market looking for a dakar right now, i’ve put my eyes on a red 2005 year model. Can’t wait to get it
I recently bought a 2001 gs version, so far I’m loving it, it’s a different beast from the Tiger 885i I had but the BMW is just a great fun bike to ride
I can definitely see why you would keep the BMW over the Honda, makes total sense. I was still sorry to see the Honda go though.
Don’t really make a similar bike today? Ktm do the 690 or like you said there is the T7 but there too expensive for me. I’m hoping royal Enfield will pull something out of the bag with the 450 that’s getting talked about.
The T7 is a really good priced bike never get a KTM but you also might like to look at the XT660Z, dont forget the Tuareg 660 is out now as well.
There all lovely bikes but there is no way I could bring myself to spend 10k on a bike! I just can’t warrant that for a hobby. I suppose it’s different if you are very well off and wouldn’t miss the money?. The XT660 might be a good idea for the future but for now I’ll have to stick with the CRF250l 🙂
@@iangriffiths9930 The CRF is a cracking bike, it is also a do it all bike, it just does the road stuff a little slower! 🙂
Agreed! Just wish it was a little quicker 🙂
Excellent vid dude, looking at getting the f650gs for a bit of touring with the warden. I can live with a bit of vibe discomfort
Very interesting video, I did think it was odd getting rid of the Honda, but as you say a very good all rounder.
honda a bit easier off-road but overall BMW is better
@@BigPezza Do you think the early model Honda Transalp could be a reasonable alternative to the Sertao? I do enjoy watching yootoober 'Pedro Moto' getting about on one Malle Moto style round Europe.
The Dakar had fuel injection too. The funduro had carbs.
Nice video. 2:03 I have a g650gs sertao and ride it with A2. It says 35kw in my registration papers which just fits for A2.
Nice review of a very dependable all rounder.
I realise this was posted a year ago but I've only just seen it and had to comment. I have a G650GS and just added F650GS rear and Dakar front wheel, easy mod for the front but obviously not adjustable. I added HyperPro springs which are great and it means I also have a second set of tubeless wheels for road specific riding (though probably could go off road on them tbh). For various reasons I ended up keeping the stock rear shock and found the height better anyway, also the centre stand still works well enough for servicing. I did a 10K mile ride to Armenia and back last year and also use it as a daily rider, I'm very fond of it. Like you, I do all my own maintenance. I added crash bars and it came with an aftermarket belly pan, I like its looks but I'm fairly old so it probably doesn't count. I also have an F650GS I'm refurbing which I also love. I agree with everything you said (apart from the looks) but you forgot to mention the jumping out of first gear at the lights or intersections, it's a pita and I haven't found a solution as yet, however, it hasn't put me off enough to worry too much about it. Great bike and as you say, it does everything adequately. I was in Australia at the end of last year and bought a G310GS for the time I was there, it was also a great bike, however much prettier, it's not as torquey but still has that GS DNA and was also suprisingly comfortable for the big mileage I was doing. Apart from the torque and being a lot lighter, it had similar performance to the 650 and was also very cheap to run. Anyway, love your vids, all local roads to me so always wonder if I'm familiar with the roads you ride. Look forward to catching up with your videos. Ride safe 🙂
I only ever had mine jump out of gear once 🤔
@@BigPezza Wow, ok, maybe it's just my bike. I was told it had been abused a bit by a former owner and my F650GS also jumps out of first so I thought it was inherent, might have to look at it when I do the clutch. Thanks for replying :-)
Proper review, that. Cheers 👍
Wow, thanks for amazing video dude
Dakar FI owner here. Love mine, the only problem I have with it is a fuel leak which I suspect is similar to the one you had, impossibility to find spare parts for cracked fairings(help) and that I have to replace fork seals. Other than that the bike is a tank.
i replaced my fork seals about 1,5 years ago as long as you protect the fork legs so they dont get pitted there good
Great review man! Thanks very much!
Just one small thing, there is to versions of the Dakar model! The one you mentioned (carbureted) and the one i have that is the twin spark fue injected Dakar! They made it from 2005 to 2007.
Same bike, almost same motor (little bit more powerful in the dakar) and 100% made in Germany (except the Rotax of course).
I don’t have too much money to go around the world in a bike so after years looking for a bike to to d job i choose this one!
Also 350km per 14 liter tank is the same than my last scooter and i really dont know any moto with 50hp that burns so little fuel🙃!
🙏
I've had a Dakar ('05) for seven years. I do my own work, as well. The side stand extender is a must. I lost one, and ended up using epoxy to fix its replacement better. These bikes lean way too much. Wayyy too much.
EFI appeared on these in '04, I think. So if anyone is looking for a bike like the Sertao, the Dakar is like the uglier older sister who's also a good kisser. Just gotta close your eyes on the way in? Buy it if it's in good shape and miles low.
Cheers from Korea, E 🏍
Terrific in-depth candid review !! What are the 650 engine and that horsepower you're saying that he can't cruise easily at 75 on the highway? How is it going on uphill stretches on the highway? and with a headwind?
Thx mate
USA
its around 50bhp. but i did mean comfortable cruising, yes it can sit at 80mph and i have got it to just under 100mph but its a single cylinder so not comfortale on Motways or Highways as you call them.
Hey man! Honestly one of the best reviews out there because you were so informative and unbiased. I needed to hear the pros but MAINLY the cons and you helped me so much so thank you!
Any advice for me before I possibly buy this bike? Any other bikes you might suggest? I'm 178cm, 70kg and a beginner rider super keen on adventuring and using this bike to commute to work.
For Beginners I would suggest getting a lighter bike for off-road. It can be hard work sometimes with a heavy lump. Thr crf250 is a great starter bike for adventure riding. I had one for many years and used it as a daily driver for quite a while as well
@Big_Pezza what if you are 6'2" and 270 lbs?
I know someone who is same hight with a bit more weight, he dose fine offroad with his crf250 he has Had it a long time now
Very informative, thank you.
00-07 F650Gs & Dakar was also FI 00-03 had single spark plug 04-07 had 2 spark plugs the pre 2000 Funduro was carbed.
Regarding the false neutrals, the spring on the pawl on the end of the selector drum might be weak.
My wife and I have 2 G650GS's now modified with better suspension and loads of other shit. 53K Miles so far but for now we only use them as a winter bike. Bought them Cheap second hand to do a trip from Argentina to Alaksa (and back to Florida to ship home) we lost a few weeks of our 12 month trip due to overheating (the 2011 ones had the F650 fans) and because of ham fisted dealers in South America (They were still under warranty) The IGN off was a pita having to take the false tank cover off when it happened (still happens) Water pump failure on both at around 30 Miles. Not a show stopper. Fan failure in Anchorage, we had to wat 2 weeks to get the replacement. Great bikes, maybe should have bought a Seratao?
Funny thing is that i have a 2004 Dakar, this yaer i bought F800 because 50hp on F650 struggle when I ride with my wife and luggage. And you know what ... when I ride alone I still chose to ride Dakar:)
Basically the same as my 2000 BMW 650 Dakar, except single plug. Still fuel injected.
Great video. But i don't agree in one point: It is not ugly! I love it! 🙂
Fantastic review i'm a happy Spanish owner and my opinion is exactly the same! I love the bikes and is impossible to find other with these features... It's ugly yes... But you need a lot of money to buy a new similar one...
getting used to the quirky cid control unit , and the once in a while , warm engine stop for gas , and cranks no start , which usually means that the battery is low on charge , or loses connection , so one of those wonderful , battery jumpers that are not much bigger then a power brick for a computer , and almost forgot the starting procedure , holding the starting button of 2-4 seconds so the cid unit reprograms or whatever , has been a must have , its just too easy to forget that 30 minutes and the bike will start no problem , and crank that engine and drain the battery 🤪, on the fuel injected ones , this bike just wants to go go go , 09 g650gs that I bought at 300 am on the Mexican use border , on a busy sidewalk , like its some kind of , illegal deal , got love a thumper , 30 to 40 seconds of listening , that motor will tell you what's uo , drove it home to LA , tore it apart the next day , put it back together , gave it a rattle can paint job , well to be honest it was 4 times before I got the feel for using the rattle cans so cheep paint and sand it down prep and do it again , fifth time bought da good stuff , bike looks like, well it cleans up great , and its nice to be able to put my feet on the street at a stop , not my toes , don't get me wrong I loved my old f800 and the f650 I had , just not so much a weird stop on uneven ground, thank you for your videos , I do all my own work too , and watch a lot of you tube
😎 sincerely David G Schoenoff
Hey dude, there is also a fuel injected dakar
Okay one more question: Thanks again for the great video! I have found a 2012 Sertao in my area (29K KMs) and honestly dying to buy it but... There is quite an audible knocking sound in the engine while accelerating AND it has that known Hot-Start issue. Have you run into anything like that on your Sertao, through all your lengthy adventuring? Curious to know any potential fixes. Thanks!
A great review …. So I’ve bought one 🎶
I'm a new rider and searching for sertao. Great review. However, the music is a little loud, distracting, and annoying at times.
Given the time frame you mention - is this a 2012 model? Great review 🙂
The Dakar has fuel injection not a carb.
Well the older ones are carbs
@@BigPezza The Dakar started in 2001 (which I have) and they are all fuel injection. The Funduro had a carb. All F650GS from 2000 on have fuel injection.
Ah yes
@@BigPezza My Dakar is from 2000 and it has a carb.
@@9233267 I am in England.
Great review, amigo. I’ve got a CRF300L Rally which is a tremendously fun and friendly bike. I absolutely love it. However, I’d be curious to ride the g650gs sertao and compare the two. If you have access to a CRF300L Rally, you should definitely take it for a spin and make a comparison video.
Had a CRF 250 for 8 years, there a great starter bike but the BMW just handles better on and off-road. But the CRF is less daunting for newer off-road riders. But I know a few who's first off-road bike was a 650 BMW or even the 800
Two words: there, who's. From your accent, I infer English is your first language. You really should do better.
thanks, good reveiw
hey, nice video !
i own a Sertao and im starting to mod a few things here and there
i have an issue with Wind noise on my Helmet. it gets very loud above
100km/h and im thinking the smaller windscreen might actually make the noise better i dont really whant a taller screen becouse it looks rediculus to me personally so do you think a smaller one makes sence ?? or shouldn't i even try that?
also im thinking of swapping the seat to a F650GS Seat becouse of the plusher patting im tall so the seathight doesmt matter it would actually improove my rather steep knew angle.
Thanks for the review, what fork guards are they ?
i got them so long ago i cant remeber where i got them from and any logo that was on them is gone
Hmm, I'm thinking of getting a 650gs as a first on/off road bike, have other bikes but road bikes and want a beginner friendly trail / off road bike that I can also ride to trails. Not so sure after watching reviews.
Start with something light before going heavy I was happy with my CRF250L that I had 8 years
I'm have to replace my DR650. How is the Sertaos drop-ability? It appears that you are an expert. I'm not being weird but the DR rarely gets damaged when dropped. But the sertao I'm not so sure. I've just finished an around Aust trip where the DR's primitive nature is a blessing. My remote travel days are over. So the sertao seems like the perfect bike.
I think the dr650 is a better trail bike but the BMW is a better road bike. I'd be tempted to keep the Suzuki
@BigPezza cheers mate. I'd like to as I've just finished an around Australia ride on the old girl (she's a 96) but it's just been written off by the insurance company due to a 18 y.o rear ending me whilst texting half way through the trip. I've got bigger adventure bikes plus an old funduro. The 30 extra kg of the sertao is the stumbling block for me. And how she handles a drop or ten on the tracks. Yours seems to have survived quite well. I could get another DR as its primitive nature makes for easy fault diagnosis and agricultural repairs in very remote areas but the sertao has always appealed to me as a great option.
How much performance advantage do you get from the Zelda decals?
How in the heck did your turn signals last so long?
Hi. Just watched your video. I also have a Sertao. I am 5’9, have a 33 inch inseam, and even have a seat concepts seat that lowers the seat height to about 33.1 inches, and I’m still not flat footed. How are you able to comfortably ride your Sertao? I wouldn’t think you could even touch the ground. Did you make other modifications to bring down the seat height? Mine is a 2013…..
I slide off the seat to just about reach the ground with 1 foot
No F650GS Dakar was carbureted as far as I know. I have an ‘05 which is basically the same as yours with a 17l tank, higher seat and different headlight assembly.
The stock skid plate is useless
thanks, what would you pay for a nice condition used one with 20k miles?
its hard to say they seem to sell for around £3500 ish at the moment they are a bit Rare so kinda sort after now
How's the g650gs compare to the f650gs? With its bigger twin is the f650gs not the better bike for all but harder offroad stuff?
I've had both. Personally I like the character of the single better. For two up touring the twin is better. Oil changes are easier on the twin, but I like the single having less electronics to worry about breaking in the future. Pros and cons to both. All depends on where and how you want to ride them.
Where do I get the puck for the side stand???
It's just a hockey puck amzn.to/3K8ZDjg like that
Man… I mean I don’t get it. I’m looking to buy my first trail ever and I’m looking towards 650GS BUT from what I see online it’s a 798cc twin from 2008 to 2013; also 19 inch front 17 back. It looks like yours isn’t the same bike AT ALL…
I’m confused lol
you are looking at the F650GS you need to look for the G650GS
I am looking at a 2005 model with a little under 18k on the odometer. What would any of you consider as high mileage and what this bike can do as far as life mileage on this motor. Oh, the guy wants 3995.00, and I want to offer him 3k even. Any thoughts. It is showroom condition. All American currency and miles, not kilometers
Mine has over 60k miles and I have seen quite a few with 80k and still going strong
I have a Sertao too and I would LOVE to love it BUT... there is a major issue I have with it. Maybe you or other watchers can help me out here:
The footpeg-plate is SO unbelievable weak that as soon as the bike touches the ground (and that does happen offroad) the plate is bending inwards. Especially the left one. And that is very bad because it is always coming so close to the gear-foot-lever that not only the whole peg is then standing in an upwards angle but also shifting could become a problem (even though that at least didnt happen to me).
But a real problem is the bending in general.
I already went through 3 of those footpeg-plates within 1 year of ownership. Does someone know a place to get more sturdy ones to get rid of that problem??
My goal is to travel the TET slovenia and croatia and I dont see me doing this with those footpegs:-(
My bike has been down more times then I can even remember or count. the footpegs have been fine, are you using the OEM ones or bigger aftermarket ones ?🤔 On the 650 forum I have never seen that as a major issue with these bikes
@@BigPezza Hi! I got my 2012 sertao almost new in 2013, my first bike and i regret nothing. I 100% agree with what you say, mines not that off road tortured but i dont pamper it either, i have no idea how many times i dropped it. The second drop though, a rear ender in a roundabout on wet road (as a beginner) actually bent the left foot peg bracket like @no idea said. Nothing a vice, a heavy hammer, some paint and determination cant fix though. Dropping it on dirt or large gravel never broke anything and even the scratches are minor (same experience with the peli cases).
Two things that made me break down though: Corroded battery pole, never thought a bike could start but then not sustain running from something like that, took me half a day to figure it out.... Second: NEVER drop ANY dirt into the oil reservoir!!!!!
I did an oil change and most likely had some bigger grain of sand on the rag i wiped the dipstick with. There is NO screen before the oil enters the first oil pump, it will cease up instantly within the first miles of riding and the bad thing is, its driven by a plastic gear with a 3mm cross pin on a shaft behind the clutch.
You block the pump, the gear(s) explode into a bunch of plastic fragments that spread through the engine since the scavenge pump can still work if you are unlucky.
The 3mm hardened drive pin if then free to fly away from the shaft without the gear keeping it in place and its in the same compartment as the big gear driving the compensation shaft. At this point you are playing russian roulette, if the pin flies between the gears, it will most likely split your engine block in two.
That said, in my case the pump stopped working, the chain tentioner was limp and i heard it rattling for longer than usual, took a week to clean the engine and glue back together the ground up gears to make sure i got every flake. Replacement gears were 6€ each and the bike is now >80000km running like a dream, first clutch, first brake disks, thanks to oiler only second set of chains, blinkers fell off, rubber stuff and the stupid rear glove compartment hatch was lost in the first month back then, it only stays in place when locked by key.
Would not want a different bike :)
I have Pivot Pegz PP-13MK2 foot begs and couldn't imagine riding with the stock pegs.
Are you sure you can't ride it with a A2 licence? is 35 KW and that is what A2 licence allows
Not sure it might be in the clear but 1 person I know had to get it restricted 🤔 as it was just over apparently
How much do you weigh brother? Do you think this bike would be appropriate for someone weighting 150kg?
I am about 10 stone (64kg ish ). the bike can handle alot, rider and pillion with luggage is over 150kg but you would have to take one for a test ride and see. Maybe check with BMW what the upper limit is as well
@@BigPezza
Thank you so much. Love your video. I have shared your link with a few friends. What do you ride now?
@@poerava I have a few bikes but still use my BMW all the time
@@poerava I have a few bikes but still use my BMW all the time
@@BigPezza
Ah gotcha. You’re a real adventurer. Have you ever come to NZ or Australia?
Okay form what I am reading the seat height of the Sertao is actually higher than the g650gs and the f650gs! Can you tell me what the actual height is. I mean I'm a short guy with an inseam of only 30".
you have 1 more then me i am 29 inseam 😅
@@BigPezza Ohh LOL 😆 well you're probably a better rider than I am, man! I like the idea of this bike and found one on sale but it's a 7 hour drive from me... Didn't want to waste time, the seat height is the deal-breaker after all. Thanks !
@@BigPezza That's so crazy, every spec I read says the seat height is 34 some inches! And yours is a 2012?
@@cliffsmith1305 i have to slide off the seat to reach the ground i just got used to it i dont even think about it anymore
Well, I wouldn't say it's ugly, but at nearly 200kg, I think it's heavy. I mean, T7 is 204kg and it's a twin. XT600 is 170kg wet. 200kg just seems too much for a single.
Check the engine??? This is one of most reliable engines ever built in motorcycles! They go forever 300-400tkm
Sorry to disagree, but I’ve never had problems with brakes or gears - they’re sweet!
Ho 36000km e tutto impianto elettrico fuso, un casino di cui non abbiamo ancora capito la causa
Eh, e io adasso penso di comprarlo
👍👍👍👍............😜😜..............