As a sport bike guy I had always hated the GS. Recently however I moved to Mexico and reluctantly bought one since I have to go through about 4 miles of very sandy roads to my house, something a Panigale particularly sucks at. ☺Even on the way home from the dealership I thought "Great quality bike but boring as hell". 10K later and I'm completely in love with it. Certainly no sport bike but it still has a ton of torque so it can still accelerate aggressively and provide lots of fun. Way more graceful in the corners than it seems it should be. And I've never owned anything that comes close to the bike's balance and low speed handling. Super impressive. I had never ridden off road at all before this bike, but now do so on the regular with growing confidence. It's just so frigg'n good at everything that you can't help but love it - weird looks and all. Really fun review - thanks for all your great content!
The GS is a great bike. The missus and I put tens of thousands of kilometers on one. Rode it home from Mississippi intending to flip it as soon as we got home. Fell in love and owned it for 15 years! The only off-pavement excursions I did on that bike were gravel roads as I had dirt bikes at the time, but it was happy doing anything I asked of it.
15 year of lovin. Noice! We are thrilled to learn about this legend of a bike, that quite frankly, those around us did not understand, and tried to undermine. We have a fun new series planned. We have a 2012 KTM 990 Adventure R, a wicked low tech monster, and now we have a 2023 luxury ADV bike. Our plan is to park our other bikes (they need fixin anyways) and ride these "Odd Couple" bikes and film whatever comes up! Your insights on our set up will be most appreciated once we figure out how we plan to use our new bike, tentative called "Dainty". Cheers!
Cool to see a review from the "other side". 8 years ago I went from dirt bikes (still have) direct to GS1200 for BDR'S. But I keep longing after the 1090's and now 890 and especially 901 (drool) wondering what I'm missing? There is no greater feeling than coming off dirt and hitting pavement with a fully loaded (for camping) GS! That really is where it shines for me. But still those 890's....
....and you bought one, good job! Short story.....6-7 years ago I was 'sit' testing bikes at the Calgary Bike show (late January I think) for spring purchase..Sat on everything regardless of price! The one bike that out-shined the rest.......by far.....was the 1200 GSA Rally! Its comfort, ergos and balance were sublime! That March I bought my 1090R (which I still have) but I still remember the Rally that I couldn't afford! If you know you know!
Wow, BMW had to have a separate display at a higher level and a separate sign post outside at a multi-marque dealership in Calgary. Times have changed! Before Dakar, AirHeads were run in Enduros in Europe. I think there are still some people that would like to see a smaller displacement , more off-road biased Boxer like original G/S.
Yes, that would be super fun! For now, we dip a toe into the super big bike pool and see where we can go. It is rather funny for me to be responding to this comment right now as we just came off a very spicy 2 day hard ADV weekend camping trip where I quite frankly am thrilled that nobody got seriously messed up. I know everybody is feeling it, and most of our bikes need to go to the shop. Most of what we did was one full level above what I will ever do on the GSA, but with that said, I a so pumped to get those dinner plate sized pupils riding a somewhat spicy trail, then chasing down some sport bikes on the twisties as I crest 500 km for the day. Dam! Stay cool Chris. Cheers.
Loved this video, I've had my gs1200 lc for ages and ride with the ktms/plastics all the time. I get alot of flack for being on the 'big girl', but she keeps up with everybody, its just that I am still growing as a rider and am more cautious than the others. Still she's done more with me than i imagined. Ps, well done on taking them out on the dirt! Brave! I took a Ténéré out on a dirt test ride, and hated the 21" wheel and dropped her in a rut.. costly test ride. That's when I realised I love my gs.
My 2007 1200GS is still going strong. It has a bit of an oil leak coming from the counter balancer shaft seal, but I think it will be fine as long as the oil doesn't get on the clutch lol. It's a pretty big job to pull the bike apart in half to get to that damn seal.
Funny that i had the same thoughts on the big beemer. After the test ride, the 1250 is something that is in the back of my mind all the time. It`s a really nice bike to ride.
I just spent 2 days on my fire breathing KTM 790 Rally in super hard terrain, and with camping gear. The video is being edited by Smelly as I type. The BMW is not going to replace that bike, but is is hopefully going to replace a lot a what I was asking that bike to do for me! This is really mixing the pot, and we love it!
There's a reason they've sold a million of these....advanced riders can do a lot on single track but for us mear mortals....we can do a lot with this bike....I have an 890r as well...so different with the low end tourq....nice job!!!
Andrew, that “third shock” is the only shock. The “forks” are there just to locate the front wheel. They do have oil in them, but that that is just to keep the seals lubed. Telelever is one of the most confidence inspiring front ends ever built!
Hello Robert! Oh, my. We are learning quickly here, lol. Thanks for the help. I suspect we will need to do the 21" front conversion and the related shock stuff. Know anybody who has done this a bunch? We need guidance.
@@DirtChimps not really. I do know how it is done, and most I have ran into don’t do much other than a rear tire swap on the rear to compensate. Should be a one day swap once all the parts are in.
OMG, rode 600 km today of slab. I normally hate this on other bikes. Loved it, and I was fully loaded with BDR gear just to see how it worked out. You beat me to being SMRT! Your RUclips handle looks interesting! Are you in TMA yet? :P
@@DirtChimps The ONLY good thing from the covid days was that I discovered Adventure bikes on RUclips!! Not sure how I ignored them all these years but better late than never right?!! Thanks on the YT name compliment but it’s a VERY boring channel compared to yours!!!!! Just doing my part to get more GS (and occasional GoldWing) videos out there! What’s TMA?
@@twobikesandadrone Hey! Watching your channel this am picture-in-picture. I am geeking out on GS adventures these days. TMA is That Moto App, and little something we have been working on throughout COVID and released this spring. If you want to check it out, go to ThatMotoApp.com. You can get in for free using code Ride4Dylan. It would be cool to see your bikes in there, perhaps even some of your adventures! You can certainly see all of our from this year. Tell your friends! :P
I have many bikes, the GS is the one that will always remain in the stable. It can do ANYTHING. Btw, it does singletrack if you know what youre doing. Just take off the panniers and run a low shield or drop the shield.
BIG FAT TOURING BIKES IS WHAT IVE ALWAYS THOUGHT OF BMW GS'S , but i need to ride one i suppose , wont be trading my 901 for it but do really want to try it out
Thanks for the big boxer review . Liked and subbed Demoing the big GS end of the month. Ihave a F750 GS 21 currently with plenty of $s upgrades. Super sweet Beemer.
Mazal Tov :) It puzzled me every time that riders adopt a "brand loyalty" approach and reject all other motorcycles on the market. I have KTM for 3 latest bikes -1090, Husky 701 (it's 690 in different color) and now 790, and I have no problem switching to a motorcycle from another brand that will satisfy my requirements.
Hey Dirt Chimps. I'm an older dude (mature gentleman) that likes to ride bikes. I'm also a data guy. I've riden in mainly in the USA and Mexico, soon to get a bike here in Europe. Me likey el dirt chimpo.
I have the same. And I’m seriously considering selling my T7. It’s a great bike and I’m sure I will miss it, but the GSA does 85% of what the T7 does and so with much more comfort. I’m just a little anxious that I will regret selling the T7 though.
That's the flex then suck combo. Totally shatters everybody's expectations. Perfect! We are big disappointments. Just imagine what we are like in person and not in an edited video! :P
@@sickjohnson I was reflecting on this today while riding. Thanks for pointing it out. I had other plans, this came out, and now I am a bit embarrassed. Thankfully, I don't take myself too seriously and laugh at what a dummy I am. Cheers.
For a heavyweight the GS is great on dirt... for a heavyweight. If someone forced me to ride my heavyweight ADV bike (Ducati in my case) on dirt I'd definitely prefer the GS. However... since my actual (KTM incidentally) dirt focused ADV bike is over 200lbs lighter than the GS... I think I'll stick with it...
Hello Owen! One of my favorite people to hang with. You influenced this, however, I did not listen to you about avoiding the big adventure tank and all. I hope to do different things with this bike, but also try to do the tight stuff, at least until I hit the limits, because it is dumb, and so am I. Thank you for your influence, and inspiration. Sincerely, Scott
@@DirtChimps I’m flattered! Really I am. I’m excited to see what you guys do with the BMWs!! I’m really looking forward to testing mine off-road too eventually!! Lol I look forward to hitting some trails on the big bikes with you guys again, if not this year, then definitely next!!! Keep the content comin!
Note sure if mocking us given the video and the level of difficulty. Our next two videos show us in hard stuff, and absolutely hitting our limits. The only hero part we ever embody is embracing the challenge. Say this in the next videos, and we will feel it sincere. This was a quick run and gun, and be careful because other people's toys. :P Love your avatar!
You are right. It is not nice. I suspect I will grow fond of it after creating some memories on the new bike. We'll see! Exhaust is likely on the shopping list, but I am told that engine sound has more to do with the valves.
But it only goes over 45 degrees instead of flat 😂 It is surprising how capable these things really are. It is far better in the dirt than it has any right to be.
We just rode two KTM middleweights on super hard terrain fully loaded with camping gear. When they want to do, they go. They weigh at least as much as the GS/GSA when fully loaded. We got multiple drops on camera today. Stany tuned as we share our follies for the enjoyment of others!
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
As a sport bike guy I had always hated the GS. Recently however I moved to Mexico and reluctantly bought one since I have to go through about 4 miles of very sandy roads to my house, something a Panigale particularly sucks at. ☺Even on the way home from the dealership I thought "Great quality bike but boring as hell". 10K later and I'm completely in love with it. Certainly no sport bike but it still has a ton of torque so it can still accelerate aggressively and provide lots of fun. Way more graceful in the corners than it seems it should be. And I've never owned anything that comes close to the bike's balance and low speed handling. Super impressive. I had never ridden off road at all before this bike, but now do so on the regular with growing confidence. It's just so frigg'n good at everything that you can't help but love it - weird looks and all. Really fun review - thanks for all your great content!
OMG, I am so that much more excited about the bike pick up date tomorrow.
Panigale, eh. Wow, amazing!
Thanks for sharing!
Nice!...riding the rocks without any crashbars or cylinder head protection! The dealer must really like you guys!
And despite our reputation too!
The GS is a great bike. The missus and I put tens of thousands of kilometers on one. Rode it home from Mississippi intending to flip it as soon as we got home. Fell in love and owned it for 15 years! The only off-pavement excursions I did on that bike were gravel roads as I had dirt bikes at the time, but it was happy doing anything I asked of it.
15 year of lovin. Noice! We are thrilled to learn about this legend of a bike, that quite frankly, those around us did not understand, and tried to undermine. We have a fun new series planned. We have a 2012 KTM 990 Adventure R, a wicked low tech monster, and now we have a 2023 luxury ADV bike. Our plan is to park our other bikes (they need fixin anyways) and ride these "Odd Couple" bikes and film whatever comes up!
Your insights on our set up will be most appreciated once we figure out how we plan to use our new bike, tentative called "Dainty". Cheers!
As a bmw r1250gs rallye 2022 owner I enjoyed your video, my last bike ktm 990 ADV old school but for me the beemer ticks all the boxes.
Cool to see a review from the "other side". 8 years ago I went from dirt bikes (still have) direct to GS1200 for BDR'S. But I keep longing after the 1090's and now 890 and especially 901 (drool) wondering what I'm missing?
There is no greater feeling than coming off dirt and hitting pavement with a fully loaded (for camping) GS! That really is where it shines for me.
But still those 890's....
I think it is pretty obvious how skilled you guys are riding the GS with Anakee 3s like this. Respect!
I just traded my 690 in on a ‘23 GSA after demoing one at Touratech….. can’t wait to put many miles/kilometers on it.
....and you bought one, good job! Short story.....6-7 years ago I was 'sit' testing bikes at the Calgary Bike show (late January I think) for spring purchase..Sat on everything regardless of price! The one bike that out-shined the rest.......by far.....was the 1200 GSA Rally! Its comfort, ergos and balance were sublime! That March I bought my 1090R (which I still have) but I still remember the Rally that I couldn't afford! If you know you know!
Wow, BMW had to have a separate display at a higher level and a separate sign post outside at a multi-marque dealership in Calgary. Times have changed!
Before Dakar, AirHeads were run in Enduros in Europe. I think there are still some people that would like to see a smaller displacement , more off-road biased Boxer like original G/S.
Yes, that would be super fun! For now, we dip a toe into the super big bike pool and see where we can go.
It is rather funny for me to be responding to this comment right now as we just came off a very spicy 2 day hard ADV weekend camping trip where I quite frankly am thrilled that nobody got seriously messed up. I know everybody is feeling it, and most of our bikes need to go to the shop. Most of what we did was one full level above what I will ever do on the GSA, but with that said, I a so pumped to get those dinner plate sized pupils riding a somewhat spicy trail, then chasing down some sport bikes on the twisties as I crest 500 km for the day. Dam!
Stay cool Chris. Cheers.
Clicked for the GS, subscribed for the Incredible accent.
Loved this video, I've had my gs1200 lc for ages and ride with the ktms/plastics all the time.
I get alot of flack for being on the 'big girl', but she keeps up with everybody, its just that I am still growing as a rider and am more cautious than the others.
Still she's done more with me than i imagined.
Ps, well done on taking them out on the dirt! Brave!
I took a Ténéré out on a dirt test ride, and hated the 21" wheel and dropped her in a rut.. costly test ride. That's when I realised I love my gs.
I had a similar first experience on a T7. Broke my leg after 2 minutes. Nothing against that bike, it was the nut behind the handlebars.
My 2007 1200GS is still going strong. It has a bit of an oil leak coming from the counter balancer shaft seal, but I think it will be fine as long as the oil doesn't get on the clutch lol. It's a pretty big job to pull the bike apart in half to get to that damn seal.
I have a 500 exc and 1250gsa and love both. The gsa is insanely easy to ride
Funny that i had the same thoughts on the big beemer.
After the test ride, the 1250 is something that is in the back of my mind all the time. It`s a really nice bike to ride.
I just spent 2 days on my fire breathing KTM 790 Rally in super hard terrain, and with camping gear. The video is being edited by Smelly as I type. The BMW is not going to replace that bike, but is is hopefully going to replace a lot a what I was asking that bike to do for me! This is really mixing the pot, and we love it!
There's a reason they've sold a million of these....advanced riders can do a lot on single track but for us mear mortals....we can do a lot with this bike....I have an 890r as well...so different with the low end tourq....nice job!!!
Andrew, that “third shock” is the only shock. The “forks” are there just to locate the front wheel. They do have oil in them, but that that is just to keep the seals lubed. Telelever is one of the most confidence inspiring front ends ever built!
Hello Robert! Oh, my. We are learning quickly here, lol. Thanks for the help. I suspect we will need to do the 21" front conversion and the related shock stuff. Know anybody who has done this a bunch? We need guidance.
@@DirtChimps not really. I do know how it is done, and most I have ran into don’t do much other than a rear tire swap on the rear to compensate. Should be a one day swap once all the parts are in.
Woody wheels has 21” wheels for the BMW, direct bolt ons
Exactly why I bought my GS......so I could roll to and from BDRs and forest roads, WITHOUT getting beat to hell. Congrats on the new GS!!
OMG, rode 600 km today of slab. I normally hate this on other bikes. Loved it, and I was fully loaded with BDR gear just to see how it worked out. You beat me to being SMRT!
Your RUclips handle looks interesting! Are you in TMA yet? :P
@@DirtChimps The ONLY good thing from the covid days was that I discovered Adventure bikes on RUclips!! Not sure how I ignored them all these years but better late than never right?!!
Thanks on the YT name compliment but it’s a VERY boring channel compared to yours!!!!! Just doing my part to get more GS (and occasional GoldWing) videos out there!
What’s TMA?
@@twobikesandadrone Hey! Watching your channel this am picture-in-picture. I am geeking out on GS adventures these days.
TMA is That Moto App, and little something we have been working on throughout COVID and released this spring. If you want to check it out, go to ThatMotoApp.com. You can get in for free using code Ride4Dylan. It would be cool to see your bikes in there, perhaps even some of your adventures! You can certainly see all of our from this year. Tell your friends! :P
@@DirtChimps I'll check it.....thanks!!
I have many bikes, the GS is the one that will always remain in the stable. It can do ANYTHING. Btw, it does singletrack if you know what youre doing. Just take off the panniers and run a low shield or drop the shield.
Killer!
Thoughts on a 21" front wheel conversion?
Was undecided between the BMW or the Multistrada V4, both sweet bikes to ride... I went for the V4 mainly because 90% of the time I'm on tarmac.
BIG FAT TOURING BIKES IS WHAT IVE ALWAYS THOUGHT OF BMW GS'S , but i need to ride one i suppose , wont be trading my 901 for it but do really want to try it out
901 is hot AF, but do you want your pupils to go stupid big?
Thanks for the big boxer review . Liked and subbed
Demoing the big GS end of the month. Ihave a F750 GS 21 currently with plenty of $s upgrades. Super sweet Beemer.
Mazal Tov :) It puzzled me every time that riders adopt a "brand loyalty" approach and reject all other motorcycles on the market. I have KTM for 3 latest bikes -1090, Husky 701 (it's 690 in different color) and now 790, and I have no problem switching to a motorcycle from another brand that will satisfy my requirements.
Well said. Understanding philosophy of use is critical.
Exactly, I have a BMW gs1250 adv, Horden 901 and a Africa Twin and I love them all
Hey Dirt Chimps. I'm an older dude (mature gentleman) that likes to ride bikes. I'm also a data guy. I've riden in mainly in the USA and Mexico, soon to get a bike here in Europe. Me likey el dirt chimpo.
Cool man! Thanks for the note!
N+1 😂 Keen to see how it handles chimp life!
Great piece of content......loved the humor......S.F.A.
Don’t worry, chief. I’m always on duty!
You’re gonna love the GSA. I have a GSA and a T7. But since the GSA does everything the T7 does I’m going to sell the T7 for a 300 Rally.
I have the same. And I’m seriously considering selling my T7. It’s a great bike and I’m sure I will miss it, but the GSA does 85% of what the T7 does and so with much more comfort. I’m just a little anxious that I will regret selling the T7 though.
😂😂😂😂
@@rallye81 Oh wow! You mess with my head!
I like the look of that garage a lot. You can be my TMA hommie for sure. I see you. :P
I have both GSA and 300l - best set so far
Those Dirt Chimps flexing hard at the start of this one like silver backs yo? LOL
That's the flex then suck combo. Totally shatters everybody's expectations. Perfect!
We are big disappointments. Just imagine what we are like in person and not in an edited video! :P
@@DirtChimps 🤣
@@sickjohnson I was reflecting on this today while riding. Thanks for pointing it out. I had other plans, this came out, and now I am a bit embarrassed. Thankfully, I don't take myself too seriously and laugh at what a dummy I am.
Cheers.
@@DirtChimps Awesome, you know the biggest FLEX is having the most fun!
@@sickjohnson Well, that is nice of you to say.
For a heavyweight the GS is great on dirt... for a heavyweight. If someone forced me to ride my heavyweight ADV bike (Ducati in my case) on dirt I'd definitely prefer the GS. However... since my actual (KTM incidentally) dirt focused ADV bike is over 200lbs lighter than the GS... I think I'll stick with it...
What is your KTM ADV? 200 lbs lighter? Must be a 690. Am I right?
Yesss!!!!!! Lol I fully support this
Hello Owen! One of my favorite people to hang with. You influenced this, however, I did not listen to you about avoiding the big adventure tank and all. I hope to do different things with this bike, but also try to do the tight stuff, at least until I hit the limits, because it is dumb, and so am I. Thank you for your influence, and inspiration. Sincerely, Scott
@@DirtChimps I’m flattered! Really I am. I’m excited to see what you guys do with the BMWs!! I’m really looking forward to testing mine off-road too eventually!! Lol I look forward to hitting some trails on the big bikes with you guys again, if not this year, then definitely next!!! Keep the content comin!
How tall are you guys? I'm 5'10 on a gs and I feel like it's quite tall??
5'9" here. It is not tall compared to our KTMs. These bikes are dreamy low!
Now repeat fully loaded up some switchbacks...
Will do!
Compare them to the KTM 890 and see how you feel.
We have a 790 Rally, and an 890 as our daily off road bikes. So, that is basically the basis of our comparison.
Well shit, didn’t see that coming.
I still say you guys need a couple Honda monkey bikes in the stable.
YEAH! I know, right!
The only down side of a gs is the price !
FIRST. YES,…. KILL IT CHEEEEMPS.
Lol, I like you.
I say Gawd Damn!
I’m just so amazed at what incredible heros you guys are!
Wowsers
Note sure if mocking us given the video and the level of difficulty. Our next two videos show us in hard stuff, and absolutely hitting our limits. The only hero part we ever embody is embracing the challenge. Say this in the next videos, and we will feel it sincere. This was a quick run and gun, and be careful because other people's toys. :P
Love your avatar!
Obviously very capable bikes - but I don't think I could stand the horrible tractor sound of the engine!
You are right. It is not nice. I suspect I will grow fond of it after creating some memories on the new bike. We'll see!
Exhaust is likely on the shopping list, but I am told that engine sound has more to do with the valves.
@@DirtChimps I hope you like you new steed - if not you can always buy another - it's only a bike!
They are just too f’ing big! Low engine or not if you fill that massive fuel tank and it starts to go over it’s going.
But it only goes over 45 degrees instead of flat 😂
It is surprising how capable these things really are. It is far better in the dirt than it has any right to be.
We just rode two KTM middleweights on super hard terrain fully loaded with camping gear. When they want to do, they go. They weigh at least as much as the GS/GSA when fully loaded. We got multiple drops on camera today. Stany tuned as we share our follies for the enjoyment of others!
Too much marketing style for me, even if I don't disagree with the assessment, just wouldn't trust this style of review.
lol, ok.