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8 Gallon fuel tank that’s always so amazing lol. And I also swear by the Telelever! Panic stops with no drama - no dive - just put a dime on the road lol. Great review flew by except for the ads.
Went from Rocket to K1600B to maybe Gold Wing, then I found you and this GS! All your input is cost-saving, bike selection help, the least I could do is show some monetary support! Thank you!
Not sure why you don't have more subscribers. It's great that you have so much personal experience with each of these bikes. You also articulate well. Wish you the best.
I think you did the best review of this motorcycle. I like how you walked around talking about each of the significant features of the bike. Most other viewers ride the bike while they talk about it...i find that distracting. Your review on the other hand focuses on the motorcycle and you point out exactly what you're talking about. This is very helpful for me.
Great review, just upgraded to a 2021 Triple Black GSA from my 2012 oil head GSA, what a difference, I thought my old bike was good, this is incredible. Totally agree about Eco mode, absolutely no power, I’ve deselected it. Only issue I’ve had is putting the bike on the centre stand, never had a problem before (4 previous RT’s, a GS and a GSA), tore my calf muscle trying to put it in the stand, waiting for a Wunderlich lifting handle to arrive and my leg to heal, hopefully that will solve the problem.
I had a 2015 R1200 RT when I was in Germany and I was so dissatisfied with it I wasn't even thinking of getting another BMW. After watching several videos and doing some research I saw that all the issues I had with the RT had been addressed. So, I took a chance on a '21 GSA and I have never been happier with a motorcycle. Thanks for the tip on the cylinder head cover protection, didn't think about those with the crash bars already installed.
You don't need back lighting on the buttons. You need to learn where those buttons are. You never look away from where you go, road and traffic, when riding. That is what makes you crash. If you have to look at buttons, to know what to push. You cant use them when you are riding. Do you look at the brake lever before you emergency brake, too? That means you are not capable to ride the bike in traffic or on the road. Seriously, you are a crash waiting to happen… - Hope they never to anything with that. It is going to make more people come into more accidents on bikes. The bikes are dangerous as is… You are only bad riders.
My GSA wish list: Illuminated control switches. Electric screen highly desirable as on RT, failing that screen adjustment control left hand opposite side to throttle. Waterproof compartment with power for phone Larger screen Comfort seat Front guides for width of panniers, i.e. RT mirror pods slightly wider than panniers, useful in heavy traffic filtering. Self cancelling indicators, though I also like old BMW cancel switch on right side for both indicators. Tilting large tft with security locking system. Personally I would like the GSA set-up with RT fairing, I tour mainly, hardly ever off road, at 6ft 2ins GSA more comfortable, RT has a semi sports riding position for my legs which ache on a long run on the autobahn/autoroute. And cheaper!! Dream on. I’m not a fan of the indicators on all the time, gives car drivers potentially incorrect intention when car is turning left. I would switch off.
Great video. Would like to see more depth in the suspension levels. My old 2015 GSA felt very tall for me, even at 6 ft and 32 inch inseam. That was the primary motive of swapping for an RT. It just did not feel practical jumping off and on around town all day. But I sat on a 2021 GSA a few days ago and I could easily flat foot it. The dealer guy knew nothing of the bike - so could you dive into the different suspension options and how that affects your standing at a stop? I understand there are min and auto levels. Would be great to see it from your stand point. Thanks
Depends on whether the bike has the lowered suspension option or regular. Lowered of course reduces ground clearance so if you want the best off-road clearance then the rider needs to adapt to the taller suspension. Maybe BMW will come out with adaptable ride height in the future, who knows.
Greetings from New Zealand, great review as always, I have been on gs’s for 17 years, now on a 22 GSA, At 64 with a bit of arthritis here and there the seating triangle of pegs, seat height, handle bar is perfect, able to stand up for a leg stretch while riding, still great wind resistance, great off road, owners should not be scared to have a wee play on gravel roads, even technical stuff, they handle awesome. 21/22 gsa owners may not know about the multifunction ability of the heated grips button, I.e. once you get it in your favourite grip, seat heating position, push and hold turns it off, push and hold brings it back to your fav setting, saves constantly going into the menu. Also personally I feel the gear shift assist has been upgraded from the 2019 model to be much smoother, best bike in the world, keep up the great reviews.
Great Job. I went on a ride last weekend with a friend that has a 2015 GSA and I have a 2021 Gold Wing Tour DCT. The ride was 515 miles into Montana and Eastern Idaho. Believe it or not, I had range anxiety. Having owned a 2005 R1200GS non-adventure I can really appreciate the larger tank. You are spot on about the items you will need to add. 2005 was a year they did not make the GSA so I had to buy the GS and I spent lots of $$$ making it close to a GSA but still couldn’t go more than 180 miles before filling up. I regretted selling my GS shortly after I did and will probably buy the GSA next year. Looking forward to your mod video. Thanks again
Excellent, informative video. Thank you. I am in the market for a bike and other than actually riding one, have pretty much made my mind up on getting a GS (just got my learners permit today)
Great video, thanks! The big bimmer remains the standard against which all others are judged. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the other big bikes out there, though.
I went to China a couple times and met a Chinese GS tour group! Unfortunately I didn’t have time to tour but so amazing to meet a great group of local guys. Most bikes there were 500cc or less.
Enjoy your reviews, thank you. Would like to hear your evaluation of the Triumph Tiger 1200 3rd Gen and latest 4th Gen vs the BMW 1250GS. I own a 2020 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCx, which I quite like but I also think the tele-lever and low centre of gravity is a game changer.
Currently own an S1000XR and will be getting this bike soon. The S1000XR is amazing, honestly too amazing, need something to slow me down a bit and hoping this will do it.
Your review of the ‘Wee-Strom’ triggered my purchase of a 21 ... put 400 miles on it today! ‘This’ review confirms my satisfaction with simple & reliable. Thanks, again ~
Great overview and thanks for sharing! My 2021 1050XT is having its first service today and I’ve been given a 2021 GS1250 for a couple of days. I live in New Zealand and I’ll be riding the GS tonight on a very twisty mountain road (tar seal and gravel mix) and looking forward to seeing how the Tele-lever system and adaptive headlight works. I was surprised how “light” the bike felt on first ride (first impressions) earlier today. I guess the take home for me from your video is to mentally map the switchgear before riding in the dark later. Ride safe everyone and keep the fab content coming Ian 👍🙂
What are those foot pegs on the crash bars? Highway foot pegs? And are they comfortable. Edit: Forget it, you answered my question at the 19:10 mark of the video.
Hello, wow those have allot of tech, adaptive headlight, and the other many things you mention. Very cool, note to self if I ever get a chance to ride one, do it!
100% spot on review. Beautiful bike and why this bike outsells all others for years. Competition does all it can to knock this bike from it’s market share lead, but none come close to the owner satisfaction surveys and the unique Boxer “soul” of this power plant. For me, BMW’s eye for “fit and finish” in use of metals and machining finish just looks great. Now if BMW could offer in the Option 719 packages, the backlit handlebar switches for night riding, a better horn like they did on the 21 RT. Lastly, an electric windscreen. Otherwise an absolutely wonderful motorcycle. I’d add a set of Denali D4 or D7 and a Sound Bomb horn. Ride safe and ride often.
Fantastic review, I ride a 2018 GSA with the TFT screen. Not changing for a few years but this is an extremely detailed review of the new features for ‘21 …
Big Rock Moto, great to see your posts and content on this awesome bike I Just got back from riding the Rallye pack GS on & off road around the Spanish mountains, clocked up 400 miles with the 'Toro Adventure'. The GS is just a awesome bit of engineering setting the bench mark in the industry. I did miss the heated seat as I have it on my own GS TE I bought in May 21' & clocked up 4k miles so far in the UK. I still can't get my head around after for the first time taking the GS off road & it just munching up rocks/gravel/puddles in Enduro mode, then switching to Dynamic it handles so fantastically around the twisties almost like a sports bike! I have the Pearl white TE but I do equally like the Rallye colours. Going to the bike show tomorrow so if you are considering a 21' spec GS the price should come down a little after the 22' model is revealed! Big Rock Moto thanks for the vid, take a look how I got on with the on/off roading in Spain, I just posted a vid although just started RUclips'ing so hopefully will get better lol...
Yes, your buyer’s guide helped me immensely. As a result I found a low mileage 2013 GS and I love it. Power is great, ESA, cruise & heated grips. All so nice. Great videos, Ian.
Great review. I'm shopping for this bike now. Only other thing I didn't hear you mention would be headlight protection, as that thing won't be cheap to replace.
I just watched this video, after I purchased this exact bike today. I pick it up tomorrow. Thank you so much for such a great informative video. Ride safe all.
Very helpful, thanks! Been looking at a new bike for long highway commutes 8 times a month -- about 3600km (2300 miles) a month of mostly highway riding in all conditions and during darkness too. I keep coming back to look at the GS -- nothing beats it in terms of comfort, safety, fuel range and road presence. 25% less gets an Africa Twin Adventure Sports, but for intended high mileage would prefer shaft drive, and the GS feels better balanced and more planted. The Honda AT feels more top heavy and cumbersome to me. Outside the realm of ADV bikes the Kawasaki Z1000SX, a sports tourer, is an option at 40% cheaper -- but not close in terms of range, safety and comfort.
Honda Gold Wing is probably much better on long rides on the highway. You can even safely, most of the time buy them used. And they are just fine. Are you sure you asking the right questions? Forget about road presence. That is going to get you hurt or killed. On a bike you are dodging the cars, not standing your ground. If a truck or even a small town car want your spot… Then you move and give them your spot. Another thing with safety… Think you need to train a lot of low speed training, if you want to be more safe. The safety feathers on a bike, do not save you, if you do not have good skills to handle a bike. The safety equipment on a bike, help a little bit, if something unexpected show up… But it want make you good at braking and handling the bike in stressed situations.
I had those A41 tires on my old 2017 GSA for one specific road trip, they were really good road tires. Half my trip was in rain from CO to Southeast TX and they were great in the rain.
As usual well done and informative. In a future video, Wish you can speak little about the actual buying/dealer experience, different spec options, GS Vs GSA
Just watched your film clip and it was a very quick thorough round up of most of the important features of the GSA. I've recently ordered a new GSA Rallye which should be arriving late January 2023. It was interesting to hear your thoughts on the Eco mode and about the fact that the bike struggled to overtake when needed which caught you out somewhat. A few years ago I had a Kawasaki GTR 1400 and that had an Eco mode that supposedly increased mileage though it only supposed to work at lower throttle openings, if you wound it on then the ecu would override the Eco and give you full power over about half throttle. To tell you the truth I only used it once on a 320km highway trip one night just to see what sort of mileage I could get out of it at a steady 110kph. It was ok but it wasn't something I ever bothered with again. Linked brakes are fantastic as far as I'm concerned. I've ridden Moto Guzzi's alot in the past which used to have a simple but effective linked system and the Kawasaki had quite a sophisticated multi brake calliper pot system that worked well considering the older technology involved, you could also proportion braking force towards the rear with an A and B mode . My last bike which was an aprilia Caponord 1200 had three riding modes rain, tour and sport. Rain mode reduced power to 75%. I tried using rain mode in the rain and it just annoyed me so I never really used it and the sport mode made the suspension too harsh on anything but the smoothest road so I left it in Tour all the time. I'm looking forward to being able to mix and match the different riding/suspension modes on the GSA to find the sweet spot for my style of riding, and be able to swap easily between them depending on the type of travelling I'm doing at the time though I suspect that Eco and probably rain mode won't be among them but we'll see. I don't intend taking the GSA on anything more than the occasional dirt track, I'm far too old and creaky to do any more serious dirt work and certainly wouldn't want to do it on an expensive 260kg+ bike anyway. Keep up the good work with your channel I always enjoy watching your no nonsense approach.
More than enough horsepower, and need backlight on handlbars - great observations no one else mentions. Well done. I would add, the bike needs automatic high beam shut off, and blind spot detectors. So easy - why can't they include it OEM?
About the Akrapovic exhaust, I agree that it's probably not worth it. In fact you can even lose some top end going from stock GS exhaust to Akrapovic. The main advantage seems weight and sound. I have an Akrapovic on my R1200GS Rallye and it makes very little difference. That tiny difference (with the sound) is pretty nice though, and I'm glad it's not too loud.
i also just bought the 2021 gsa ralley it will be delivered in january. I went from a gsa to the gs because I got my feet flat on the ground with it, but I'm back to the gsa for the larger tank (30) liters, which I missed very much. I like to drive long distances without having to stop. I had the heated saddle replaced by the Wunderlich Active Comfort. And the aluminum cases are exchanged for the vario cases. Can't wait for the new year and long travels.
Nice job on the video. Very close to pulling the plug on this or the standard GS. Starting to sway more towards the GSA though seeing all the extra's it has.
Buy one that is some years old. You lose a bunch of money just taking the bike out of the shop. And there is not so much to choose when you buy a bike. And lots of people buy a big bike, and then selling it because they cant handle it. You should not buy a new vehicle before your net-worth is 1 million. And even then it is a wast of money you can use on so many other things.
Thanks ! Excellent review and informative, as usual. Do I have £20k + to spare ? Not really, what I do have is an 07 Low Tech-No Tech GS ( no abs either !) Oil Head, which does everything I need it to do ( slightly slower yes, and no electronics !). Thanks from UK Roj
New subscriber here - great channel content. These videos are coming at a good time - I am researching this bike now. Unfortunately I fall in a bad spot height-wise, at 5’9 and 30” inseam. I can not stand up a GSA with standard seat, but I can with the optional low seat in the low position (with standard suspension). I can however stand up the regular GS with standard seat as well as the regular GS with sport suspension (a little taller than the regular GS). I test rode this sport suspension GS this weekend and was impressed. But for the money, the GSA seems a better deal. So I have a decision to make (GS vs GSA), and not really wanting the low suspension model with reduced ground clearance and possible lower resale ability. Look forward to your following videos on this bike.
Try out the Endurotech Low seat. It's a one piece seat, expensive, yes, but I've found very comfortable and it looks great too. I sold my standard seats (rider and pillion) on E-Bay, so I've recovered most of the cost. With the seat bracket in the 'L' position and changing the rubber bungs, my 2016 GSA has a stand-over height to about 810mm, so I easily flat foot in my riding boots. I am 5'9" and my inseam is around 31 inches.
Thanks Ian. I've been considering one of these for a long time. Due to your excellent opinion and reviews, I have a 2022 GSA on order. Please keep up the great content.
Just brought one swapped in the XR for it collection is in 2 days and I can’t wait been watching your videos to death especially the Gs vs the GSA as a big bloke 23stone ( 325lb I think 🤪) the GSA made more sense keep the great videos coming lovin your work from here in the UK 🇬🇧 thanks again 👍🏍🏍👍
Handle risers are an option offered here in Canada..I am 6 ft and have done a few Rawhyde courses...so crashing and riding a GSA offroad has been an eye-opener...had a 2010 and waiting delivery on my 2021 Rallye...stock foot pegs ,mirrors and levers and windshield are getting replaced.
Great video I had a 07 GSA from new for 10years I got a XR two years ago it’s a great bike but I miss the low end of the GSA, I’m testing one in two weeks really just to see how much they have moved on , and weather I need a lowered one . One your Gs against the GSA you say they have a different rake on the front need to give it a go . Great series of videos have subscribed ,keep up the excellent work 👍👍 from the UK
@@FLYEAL but perhaps he still has the 790? I might not have seen the video where he says that he has sold it. If he has both, would be nice to see a video with the KTM again too
The problem with frame protection is: it covers the beautiful piece you seek to keep beautiful. There is integrity in wearing out your stuff, and showing your battle scars.lol.
Well done review. I’m about to check out a new GSA. Unfortunately my local dealer only has one in a crate and are very slow to put it together for me to check it out. It has the premium pkg but no heated seat. They also told me in the test ride is the last thing before closing the deal. Must have a finance agreement approved and an intent to purchase before the ride. Is that very common nowadays? I’m thinking I need to take a road trip to another dealer and see if I can find a better selection and better buying experience.
Yes agreed an amazing piece of technology which is unfortunately out of my price range but one can only dream. I ride a 2018 VStrom 1000 and as everyone always comments "You can have an adventure on any bike" I like your no nonsense approach to bike matters and hope to see more in the future. I might have missed it but any thoughts on he Tenere 700?
Hi, awesome video as usual !! Reading the manual about the ECO mode they advise changing modes to do overtakes, witch kind of defeat the purpose. Looking forward for the update about the rational.
@@BigRockMoto Yeap, "Due to of the reduced acceleration capability in the ECO mode, it is recommended that the riding mode be changed before attempting critical passing maneuvers with a heavy vehicle load or in twoup operation. Applying a defensive riding style can further reduce fuel consumption"
Great videos, very informative. What do you think about the bmw Navi vi? I have a 2022 gsa on order and debating on the Navi vi or the Zumo xt. Is it worth twice the price?
![R1200GS / R1250GS | Complete Buyer's Guide [2005-2020]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9arUyUFD5wk/mqdefault.jpg)
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That's normal with eco modes some kind of lag involved... it's the same on mercedes cars when u drive in eco mode constantly evolving tho.
"This is the bike I bought, that's why I bought it, because I like it." Good answer.
8 Gallon fuel tank that’s always so amazing lol. And I also swear by the Telelever! Panic stops with no drama - no dive - just put a dime on the road lol. Great review flew by except for the ads.
Went from Rocket to K1600B to maybe Gold Wing, then I found you and this GS! All your input is cost-saving, bike selection help, the least I could do is show some monetary support! Thank you!
Man i think this the most comprehensive review of GS 1250. Very good video
BRM/Ian - one of the best sources of information on GS/GSA, ADV, and motorcycling in general.
Not sure why you don't have more subscribers. It's great that you have so much personal experience with each of these bikes. You also articulate well. Wish you the best.
I think you did the best review of this motorcycle. I like how you walked around talking about each of the significant features of the bike. Most other viewers ride the bike while they talk about it...i find that distracting. Your review on the other hand focuses on the motorcycle and you point out exactly what you're talking about. This is very helpful for me.
Great review, just upgraded to a 2021 Triple Black GSA from my 2012 oil head GSA, what a difference, I thought my old bike was good, this is incredible. Totally agree about Eco mode, absolutely no power, I’ve deselected it. Only issue I’ve had is putting the bike on the centre stand, never had a problem before (4 previous RT’s, a GS and a GSA), tore my calf muscle trying to put it in the stand, waiting for a Wunderlich lifting handle to arrive and my leg to heal, hopefully that will solve the problem.
I had a 2015 R1200 RT when I was in Germany and I was so dissatisfied with it I wasn't even thinking of getting another BMW. After watching several videos and doing some research I saw that all the issues I had with the RT had been addressed. So, I took a chance on a '21 GSA and I have never been happier with a motorcycle. Thanks for the tip on the cylinder head cover protection, didn't think about those with the crash bars already installed.
Awesome ride safe
AMEN !!!!!!! 2022 GSA, here ........ Love it !!!!!! 🙂
That’s what I call : Riding on a dream !
The best description of this bike!
Thanks! Great info. I have a 2018 GSA, and will stay with it for as long as I can love it.
Good to hear!
Backlighting the switchgear. I've been saying it for years that BMW should do that. Hope they eventually get the hint.
You don't need back lighting on the buttons. You need to learn where those buttons are. You never look away from where you go, road and traffic, when riding. That is what makes you crash. If you have to look at buttons, to know what to push. You cant use them when you are riding. Do you look at the brake lever before you emergency brake, too?
That means you are not capable to ride the bike in traffic or on the road. Seriously, you are a crash waiting to happen…
- Hope they never to anything with that. It is going to make more people come into more accidents on bikes. The bikes are dangerous as is… You are only bad riders.
My GSA wish list: Illuminated control switches.
Electric screen highly desirable as on RT, failing that screen adjustment control left hand opposite side to throttle.
Waterproof compartment with power for phone
Larger screen
Comfort seat
Front guides for width of panniers, i.e. RT mirror pods slightly wider than panniers, useful in heavy traffic filtering.
Self cancelling indicators, though I also like old BMW cancel switch on right side for both indicators.
Tilting large tft with security locking system.
Personally I would like the GSA set-up with RT fairing, I tour mainly, hardly ever off road, at 6ft 2ins GSA more comfortable, RT has a semi sports riding position for my legs which ache on a long run on the autobahn/autoroute.
And cheaper!! Dream on.
I’m not a fan of the indicators on all the time, gives car drivers potentially incorrect intention when car is turning left. I would switch off.
Great review mate....
I feel like a frog now - want, want, want 🐸🐸🐸
GREAT walk around! I’m Deciding between this and the RT. Tough choice!
Love your review very informative. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Just placed a order on a 2022 Triple black GSA, and looking forward to it even more after your Your tube 👍
Great video. Would like to see more depth in the suspension levels. My old 2015 GSA felt very tall for me, even at 6 ft and 32 inch inseam. That was the primary motive of swapping for an RT. It just did not feel practical jumping off and on around town all day. But I sat on a 2021 GSA a few days ago and I could easily flat foot it. The dealer guy knew nothing of the bike - so could you dive into the different suspension options and how that affects your standing at a stop? I understand there are min and auto levels. Would be great to see it from your stand point. Thanks
I second this, I would be interested in hearing about this as well.
Excellent content btw!
Not sure why, but the GSA does seem to sit a bit lower than the GS.
Depends on whether the bike has the lowered suspension option or regular. Lowered of course reduces ground clearance so if you want the best off-road clearance then the rider needs to adapt to the taller suspension. Maybe BMW will come out with adaptable ride height in the future, who knows.
Great video, excellent info. As I am a prospective GSA buyer, thanks for sharing. Cheers
I always find it very informative on your video. Keep it coming. Great job.
Greetings from New Zealand, great review as always, I have been on gs’s for 17 years, now on a 22 GSA, At 64 with a bit of arthritis here and there the seating triangle of pegs, seat height, handle bar is perfect, able to stand up for a leg stretch while riding, still great wind resistance, great off road, owners should not be scared to have a wee play on gravel roads, even technical stuff, they handle awesome. 21/22 gsa owners may not know about the multifunction ability of the heated grips button, I.e. once you get it in your favourite grip, seat heating position, push and hold turns it off, push and hold brings it back to your fav setting, saves constantly going into the menu. Also personally I feel the gear shift assist has been upgraded from the 2019 model to be much smoother, best bike in the world, keep up the great reviews.
Great Job. I went on a ride last weekend with a friend that has a 2015 GSA and I have a 2021 Gold Wing Tour DCT. The ride was 515 miles into Montana and Eastern Idaho. Believe it or not, I had range anxiety. Having owned a 2005 R1200GS non-adventure I can really appreciate the larger tank. You are spot on about the items you will need to add. 2005 was a year they did not make the GSA so I had to buy the GS and I spent lots of $$$ making it close to a GSA but still couldn’t go more than 180 miles before filling up. I regretted selling my GS shortly after I did and will probably buy the GSA next year. Looking forward to your mod video. Thanks again
Thanks
Excellent, informative video. Thank you. I am in the market for a bike and other than actually riding one, have pretty much made my mind up on getting a GS (just got my learners permit today)
Great video, thanks! The big bimmer remains the standard against which all others are judged. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the other big bikes out there, though.
Thanks, will do!
Great review, I learned a lot from you. Thank you.
I went to China a couple times and met a Chinese GS tour group! Unfortunately I didn’t have time to tour but so amazing to meet a great group of local guys. Most bikes there were 500cc or less.
Enjoy your reviews, thank you. Would like to hear your evaluation of the Triumph Tiger 1200 3rd Gen and latest 4th Gen vs the BMW 1250GS. I own a 2020 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCx, which I quite like but I also think the tele-lever and low centre of gravity is a game changer.
Keep your xcx and wait for the BMW1300GS you won’t regret it … end of it BMWs are always a lil ahead of the competition
Currently own an S1000XR and will be getting this bike soon. The S1000XR is amazing, honestly too amazing, need something to slow me down a bit and hoping this will do it.
Those XRs are crazy quick
@@BigRockMoto yes they are, I’m amazed at how quick, great and effortless it rails through the corners.
Your review of the ‘Wee-Strom’ triggered my purchase of a 21 ... put 400 miles on it today! ‘This’ review confirms my satisfaction with simple & reliable. Thanks, again ~
Good choice!
Very nice! ... Please keep us up-to date on the reasoning for the GSA rake angle and if there is an ECO Mode work around. ... Thanks.
You got it!
Would be helpful to mention this is the GSA in the title. As always great video I’m after a GS, need to get it out my system after 3 V-stroms.
Super useful information. Thank you
Great overview and thanks for sharing! My 2021 1050XT is having its first service today and I’ve been given a 2021 GS1250 for a couple of days. I live in New Zealand and I’ll be riding the GS tonight on a very twisty mountain road (tar seal and gravel mix) and looking forward to seeing how the Tele-lever system and adaptive headlight works. I was surprised how “light” the bike felt on first ride (first impressions) earlier today. I guess the take home for me from your video is to mentally map the switchgear before riding in the dark later. Ride safe everyone and keep the fab content coming Ian 👍🙂
when trying to turn the heated grips on my bike, i hit the kill switch. at night, in the mountains.
Tks for the great video ! JF MTL Canada, getting my GSA in 1 week !
Love the intro music! Really fits.
What are those foot pegs on the crash bars? Highway foot pegs? And are they comfortable.
Edit: Forget it, you answered my question at the 19:10 mark of the video.
I love my highway pegs
that is a klighband pegs
Hello, wow those have allot of tech, adaptive headlight, and the other many things you mention. Very cool, note to self if I ever get a chance to ride one, do it!
100% spot on review. Beautiful bike and why this bike outsells all others for years. Competition does all it can to knock this bike from it’s market share lead, but none come close to the owner satisfaction surveys and the unique Boxer “soul” of this power plant. For me, BMW’s eye for “fit and finish” in use of metals and machining finish just looks great. Now if BMW could offer in the Option 719 packages, the backlit handlebar switches for night riding, a better horn like they did on the 21 RT. Lastly, an electric windscreen. Otherwise an absolutely wonderful motorcycle. I’d add a set of Denali D4 or D7 and a Sound Bomb horn. Ride safe and ride often.
yep I need some farkles!
Fantastic review, I ride a 2018 GSA with the TFT screen. Not changing for a few years but this is an extremely detailed review of the new features for ‘21 …
Loved your video. Very fact based, objective review. Very precise.
thanks
Big Rock Moto, great to see your posts and content on this awesome bike
I Just got back from riding the Rallye pack GS on & off road around the Spanish mountains, clocked up 400 miles with the 'Toro Adventure'. The GS is just a awesome bit of engineering setting the bench mark in the industry. I did miss the heated seat as I have it on my own GS TE I bought in May 21' & clocked up 4k miles so far in the UK. I still can't get my head around after for the first time taking the GS off road & it just munching up rocks/gravel/puddles in Enduro mode, then switching to Dynamic it handles so fantastically around the twisties almost like a sports bike! I have the Pearl white TE but I do equally like the Rallye colours. Going to the bike show tomorrow so if you are considering a 21' spec GS the price should come down a little after the 22' model is revealed! Big Rock Moto thanks for the vid, take a look how I got on with the on/off roading in Spain, I just posted a vid although just started RUclips'ing so hopefully will get better lol...
Great video, thanks. How about discussing all the electronic menu settings ie. How they all work?
The GS has the best heat management in the adv group. More comfortable to ride in the summer than my Ducati multistrada or my brother's KTM 1290!
excellent experienced commentary with great presenting skills . Keep it up!
Great Job enjoyed your buyer"s guide, can't wait for more, maybe while riding.
Awesome, thank you!
Yes, your buyer’s guide helped me immensely. As a result I found a low mileage 2013 GS and I love it. Power is great, ESA, cruise & heated grips. All so nice. Great videos, Ian.
Great review. I'm shopping for this bike now. Only other thing I didn't hear you mention would be headlight protection, as that thing won't be cheap to replace.
Yeah I need to deal with that
Thanks for your thoughts on this great bike, only just come across your channel and have subscribed. Grant from England
Awesome, thank you!
I just watched this video, after I purchased this exact bike today. I pick it up tomorrow. Thank you so much for such a great informative video. Ride safe all.
Enjoy!
Superb and very useful video.
Very helpful, thanks!
Been looking at a new bike for long highway commutes 8 times a month -- about 3600km (2300 miles) a month of mostly highway riding in all conditions and during darkness too.
I keep coming back to look at the GS -- nothing beats it in terms of comfort, safety, fuel range and road presence. 25% less gets an Africa Twin Adventure Sports, but for intended high mileage would prefer shaft drive, and the GS feels better balanced and more planted. The Honda AT feels more top heavy and cumbersome to me.
Outside the realm of ADV bikes the Kawasaki Z1000SX, a sports tourer, is an option at 40% cheaper -- but not close in terms of range, safety and comfort.
Honda Gold Wing is probably much better on long rides on the highway. You can even safely, most of the time buy them used. And they are just fine. Are you sure you asking the right questions?
Forget about road presence. That is going to get you hurt or killed. On a bike you are dodging the cars, not standing your ground. If a truck or even a small town car want your spot… Then you move and give them your spot.
Another thing with safety… Think you need to train a lot of low speed training, if you want to be more safe. The safety feathers on a bike, do not save you, if you do not have good skills to handle a bike. The safety equipment on a bike, help a little bit, if something unexpected show up… But it want make you good at braking and handling the bike in stressed situations.
I had those A41 tires on my old 2017 GSA for one specific road trip, they were really good road tires. Half my trip was in rain from CO to Southeast TX and they were great in the rain.
Thanks
As usual well done and informative. In a future video, Wish you can speak little about the actual buying/dealer experience, different spec options, GS Vs GSA
Will do!
Just watched your film clip and it was a very quick thorough round up of most of the important features of the GSA. I've recently ordered a new GSA Rallye which should be arriving late January 2023. It was interesting to hear your thoughts on the Eco mode and about the fact that the bike struggled to overtake when needed which caught you out somewhat.
A few years ago I had a Kawasaki GTR 1400 and that had an Eco mode that supposedly increased mileage though it only supposed to work at lower throttle openings, if you wound it on then the ecu would override the Eco and give you full power over about half throttle. To tell you the truth I only used it once on a 320km highway trip one night just to see what sort of mileage I could get out of it at a steady 110kph. It was ok but it wasn't something I ever bothered with again.
Linked brakes are fantastic as far as I'm concerned. I've ridden Moto Guzzi's alot in the past which used to have a simple but effective linked system and the Kawasaki had quite a sophisticated multi brake calliper pot system that worked well considering the older technology involved, you could also proportion braking force towards the rear with an A and B mode .
My last bike which was an aprilia Caponord 1200 had three riding modes rain, tour and sport. Rain mode reduced power to 75%. I tried using rain mode in the rain and it just annoyed me so I never really used it and the sport mode made the suspension too harsh on anything but the smoothest road so I left it in Tour all the time.
I'm looking forward to being able to mix and match the different riding/suspension modes on the GSA to find the sweet spot for my style of riding, and be able to swap easily between them depending on the type of travelling I'm doing at the time though I suspect that Eco and probably rain mode won't be among them but we'll see.
I don't intend taking the GSA on anything more than the occasional dirt track, I'm far too old and creaky to do any more serious dirt work and certainly wouldn't want to do it on an expensive 260kg+ bike anyway.
Keep up the good work with your channel I always enjoy watching your no nonsense approach.
Extraordinary in depth and detailed video. Thank you, it certainly is making me think before buying either model.👍🏻👍🏻
More than enough horsepower, and need backlight on handlbars - great observations no one else mentions. Well done. I would add, the bike needs automatic high beam shut off, and blind spot detectors. So easy - why can't they include it OEM?
Great info thank you🚲🚲
Like you, I want shaft drive,so it's the GS,Super Tenere,or Moto Guzzi V85TT.Your excellent video makes a very compelling case for the GS.Thank you.
Another great video. Thank you for all the information you provided in this video. I currently own a 2021 GS which is just an awesome bike.
About the Akrapovic exhaust, I agree that it's probably not worth it. In fact you can even lose some top end going from stock GS exhaust to Akrapovic. The main advantage seems weight and sound. I have an Akrapovic on my R1200GS Rallye and it makes very little difference. That tiny difference (with the sound) is pretty nice though, and I'm glad it's not too loud.
i also just bought the 2021 gsa ralley it will be delivered in january. I went from a gsa to the gs because I got my feet flat on the ground with it, but I'm back to the gsa for the larger tank (30) liters, which I missed very much. I like to drive long distances without having to stop. I had the heated saddle replaced by the Wunderlich Active Comfort. And the aluminum cases are exchanged for the vario cases. Can't wait for the new year and long travels.
awesome
Great Video - Very informative
Great video further aggravated my jealous against Big GS owners.
Enjoy and ride safe
Thanks, you too!
Nice job on the video. Very close to pulling the plug on this or the standard GS. Starting to sway more towards the GSA though seeing all the extra's it has.
Don't you mean "pulling the trigger"? Pulling the plug would mean that you're getting rid of it.
Ty for all your info. Still can’t decide ktm1290s or the gs1250 😬?
Excellent review 👍🏻
I dream of owning one myself....world's best bike
How can I get a couple of those Big Rock Media stickers?
Working on that... stay tuned
Great video as usual. I’m happy with my 2018 1200GS for now but will update to latest GSA when I can
Thanks for posting, saving up for one of these!
The best bike for me.great video.thanks.safe ride and take care.hello from Slovenia.🇸🇮🇸🇮🇸🇮
Hello from USA
Great video. Nice description of the features. What packages do you have on your bike? I'm interested in a GSA and would like to know. Thanks!
Great and very enjoyable video! I still ride my 2010 GSa which I absolutely love but I am thinking of upgrading to a new one. Lots of money though...
Buy one that is some years old. You lose a bunch of money just taking the bike out of the shop. And there is not so much to choose when you buy a bike. And lots of people buy a big bike, and then selling it because they cant handle it.
You should not buy a new vehicle before your net-worth is 1 million. And even then it is a wast of money you can use on so many other things.
Thanks ! Excellent review and informative, as usual. Do I have £20k + to spare ? Not really, what I do have is an 07 Low Tech-No Tech GS ( no abs either !) Oil Head, which does everything I need it to do ( slightly slower yes, and no electronics !).
Thanks from UK
Roj
New subscriber here - great channel content. These videos are coming at a good time - I am researching this bike now. Unfortunately I fall in a bad spot height-wise, at 5’9 and 30” inseam. I can not stand up a GSA with standard seat, but I can with the optional low seat in the low position (with standard suspension). I can however stand up the regular GS with standard seat as well as the regular GS with sport suspension (a little taller than the regular GS). I test rode this sport suspension GS this weekend and was impressed. But for the money, the GSA seems a better deal. So I have a decision to make (GS vs GSA), and not really wanting the low suspension model with reduced ground clearance and possible lower resale ability. Look forward to your following videos on this bike.
Try out the Endurotech Low seat. It's a one piece seat, expensive, yes, but I've found very comfortable and it looks great too. I sold my standard seats (rider and pillion) on E-Bay, so I've recovered most of the cost.
With the seat bracket in the 'L' position and changing the rubber bungs, my 2016 GSA has a stand-over height to about 810mm, so I easily flat foot in my riding boots. I am 5'9" and my inseam is around 31 inches.
@@DGBYRNE Thanks for the info Des. 810mm vs the standard 890mm (I think) is pretty substantial. That would work for me.
Thanks Ian. I've been considering one of these for a long time. Due to your excellent opinion and reviews, I have a 2022 GSA on order. Please keep up the great content.
wow, awesome. enjoy
I was going to buy one but I heard they're building a new one with more power and blind spot monitoring
Just brought one swapped in the XR for it collection is in 2 days and I can’t wait been watching your videos to death especially the Gs vs the GSA as a big bloke 23stone ( 325lb I think 🤪) the GSA made more sense keep the great videos coming lovin your work from here in the UK 🇬🇧 thanks again 👍🏍🏍👍
awesome
We would be interested to know what has happened to the KTM 790 and 500? And if you have sold them, Why?
Handle risers are an option offered here in Canada..I am 6 ft and have done a few Rawhyde courses...so crashing and riding a GSA offroad has been an eye-opener...had a 2010 and waiting delivery on my 2021 Rallye...stock foot pegs ,mirrors and levers and windshield are getting replaced.
Great video I had a 07 GSA from new for 10years I got a XR two years ago it’s a great bike but I miss the low end of the GSA, I’m testing one in two weeks really just to see how much they have moved on , and weather I need a lowered one . One your Gs against the GSA you say they have a different rake on the front need to give it a go . Great series of videos have subscribed ,keep up the excellent work 👍👍 from the UK
another great vid thanks ... and I sooo agree with the back lit buttons :D
How is the KTM 790 Adv going? Hoping to see a vid with that again soon
I think the purchase of the GSA tells you all you need to know about his thoughts on the 790.
He has admitted to the habit of changing/adding vehicles often. Maybe too often. I’ve been there and am sympathetic.
@@FLYEAL but perhaps he still has the 790? I might not have seen the video where he says that he has sold it. If he has both, would be nice to see a video with the KTM again too
good suggestion about the overtaking problem you faced 👍
The problem with frame protection is: it covers the beautiful piece you seek to keep beautiful. There is integrity in wearing out your stuff, and showing your battle scars.lol.
Great video!!!
Great in-depth review!
Great review, thx heaps !! BTW Im loving my 2021 Rallye.
nice presentation !! thanks
You are welcome!
Always appreciate your review and informative comparisons. Happy riding
Much appreciated!
Looking forward to the V-Strom 1050 review. Cheers
Well done review. I’m about to check out a new GSA. Unfortunately my local dealer only has one in a crate and are very slow to put it together for me to check it out. It has the premium pkg but no heated seat. They also told me in the test ride is the last thing before closing the deal. Must have a finance agreement approved and an intent to purchase before the ride. Is that very common nowadays? I’m thinking I need to take a road trip to another dealer and see if I can find a better selection and better buying experience.
Yes agreed an amazing piece of technology which is unfortunately out of my price range but one can only dream. I ride a 2018 VStrom 1000 and as everyone always comments "You can have an adventure on any bike" I like your no nonsense approach to bike matters and hope to see more in the future. I might have missed it but any thoughts on he Tenere 700?
BMW M1300GS in advanced development for 2023 release.
Hi, awesome video as usual !! Reading the manual about the ECO mode they advise changing modes to do overtakes, witch kind of defeat the purpose.
Looking forward for the update about the rational.
They can't be serious. Changing the mode to pass a car? That would take way too long.
@@BigRockMoto Yeap,
"Due to of the reduced acceleration capability in
the ECO mode, it is recommended that the riding mode
be changed before attempting critical passing maneuvers with a heavy vehicle load or in twoup operation.
Applying a defensive riding
style can further reduce fuel
consumption"
I have exact same bike but why dont bmw put the screen knob on the left side so you can adjust with left hand
Really love the bike but my 1.67m 62kg is too small for the bike
Great video, thanks. Where did you get the windscreen spoiler from?
Great videos, very informative.
What do you think about the bmw Navi vi?
I have a 2022 gsa on order and debating on the Navi vi or the Zumo xt.
Is it worth twice the price?
Great Job! I was wondering what Mitchell was up to since Modern Family ended.
Looking into getting a 2022 soon