Thank you so much. I never imagined I would get 1k subscribers and I like the fact that publishing my experiences has helped a few folks make decisions. Thank you for your support
I have had a Street Glide Special, a 2017 model with the first Milwaukee Eight engine and I loved that bike. The GW is quite like it in weight and handling, plus the tech is very similar as well, more of an update on my Street Glide. The beemer is lighter, faster and better handling, plus you can get a full faced helmet in the panniers. The tech is way more complex, still doesn't work as well and you can only get a standard sized phone in the pocket. Personally I would stick with the Harley
As you know, I also have a 2021R 1250 RT and initially my frustration level was pressed to redline as yours was. But now after two software updates everything is finally running great. I tend to do 50% aggressive sport riding and 50% highway touring. I do love the shift cam motor the transmission and the suspension on the RT. I’m glad we finally got everything sorted out. I have come to enjoy the ride connected app as I have discovered many new roads in my area that I never knew existed. Ride safe my friend!
What killed me for my bike was the brake failure through corrosion. I lost all confidence in the bike but had BMW been a bit more open I would probably have just bought another one. I did get an apology from the dealership that they should have handled my situation better, but that said I am happy with my wing
Thanks you for that considered comparison. My wife and I are coming up to 1 year's ownership of our 2014 Goldwing and we're deeply satisfied with it. For us it is ALL about the 2-up riding - well, almost all! Maybe one day we'll be in a position to seriously consider a new DCT GL1800.
does your bike handle good have you rode the new generation how do the 2 compare thanks I have a gl1000 at first it handled like freight train straight line after I got on to it its not that bad
Interesting as always, obviously followed your RT experience and while we understand why you got rid of yours, we had a 21 reg R1250RT and was initially very disappointed with the navigation after a few software updates they eventually got it sorted. In November we decided to swap the BMW and after considering lots of others including goldwing we decided to get another RT. Helped by the fact that the dealer is good. We tend to do about 280 miles on a ride out and always two up. Anyway a balance review on your part. All the best...
@@HighlandRider thanks, much as I said when we first got the RT it was frankly a disappointment. But two software versions later and sorted. I watched your video and interesting your thoughts on navigation system. Personally when we swapped the RT considered a goldwing, and decided for two up touring on twisty roads possibly for us the RT is best. The navigation for us is a gamechanger. Particularly like the fact can plan a ride on Google maps and export to a gpx file, or calimoto etc and then using a shared drive such as Google drive or Dropbox the route is easily imported into the BMW app. The very latest version starts and connects far quicker and never drops out. Finally the dealer has always supported us well and when looking to swap came up wit a compelling deal. We did look at the K1600 which much as the goldwing the heart liked a 6 cylinder engine. The K1600 was tempting but again think the RT represents better value as well as being a bit more agile.... Good you are happy with the honda, shame you had such problems with your RT
@@daveandrew8845 I love the good stories. the killer for me was the brake problem as I lost confidence in the bike. The software updates I had made a huge difference and also being a beta tester for BMW (official) I got to test the ongoing development of the app.
Hi, I owned 2020 k1600 GT.SE. got a call back with a suspension issue, Then the starter motor gave trouble, big strip down for that! Enjoyed the power and 6 cylinder sound. Now on to the 2020 Goldwing DCT like yours but Matt black, it's great because you are always in the right gear, never stall, center of gravity 👌, Forward and reverse creep👌 Thanks for your views 👍
Same here, boss. 2 k's, so much crap was going on and so expensive to fix. had enough. Moved to a new 2020 GW, DCT, Tour. What a pleasure. 15K so far, zero problems, I mean ZERO!!! BMW can shove it up the A#@. No more running to the dealer. Incredible machine, the Goldwing is. Just superb.
@@alp3781 I haven't spoken to my dealer since the day I collected the bike apart from booking first service. With my BMW I was never out of the dealership
Thanks a lot for your really interesting video. I'm looking for a bike to travel and also do camping with it and some time camping mean also some gravel road. I love the Goldwing but to heavy and also to much fuel consomption. Do you know if I buy a 2023 R1250RT the problem with the exhaust valve and the break will be fix? And for the tech if I use a tomtom gps I should be ok and forgot the bmw connection problem. I do not listen music will I ride I need all my attention for the road and other cars.
Hello Robert. The exhaust valve problem affects all twins that are V or opposed, not just BMW but Ducati, Honda and Yamaha. For some reason, not on a Harley. It is also a problem that doesn't affect every bike, probably around 5% of bikes may suffer the problem. The latest valve fitted post problem to 2021 bikes, and as standard to 2022 bikes and beyond appears much less likely to fail, but there is always a chance of failure. If it does happen it tends to stick in the 'open' position so you can ride safely until you get it repaired. The only bad problem is if it seizes in the 'closed' position because then you cannot start the bike, but that is very rare and I only know of one case where that happened, on a GS. If you buy a 2023 bike and the problem happens it will be covered under warranty so should not be a big problem.
Very interesting listening to your observations. I would fall into the comparing apples to oranges band but did enjoy your thought process. I’ve had 4 RT,s and currently have the K 1600gtl but I’m changing that shortly to go back to a new RT. I found the GTL and the Goldwing just too heavy to manoeuvre around the garage etc. I like your observation on presence, the ignoring of the RT is a plus for me, I think you are right but to me it’s a positive, it just blends in and goes unnoticed but usually does all things very well. Enjoy the Goldwing it certainly has appeal
The one bit I didn't mention about the Goldwing is the creep function which is brilliant for moving in out and around the garage. All bikes should have it
I ended up having to buy a 21 plate RT because of supply issues in autumn 2022. BM were only selling stock bikes, and I didn’t want to waste £1k on the unnecessary, somewhat American idea of a radio, so secondhand it was. It was impossible to get ACC without the radio, at that time. Prices were peaking and goi second hand stock in my spec was hard to come by. Fortunately, a BM salesman who’d moved from a dealership I used to use, to one that was now my local, held onto a bike for 2 months for me! The bike had all the 719 stuff (which I didn’t want due to commuting on the RT) and the necessary (for M1 journeys) ACC. I had one issue with the Connected App. This was solved with an update overnight by the dealer. The App and the bike has not let me down. I’ve put 6k miles on since mid-November, which includes a one month lay off where I worked from home. The bike and the tech has been perfect. I don’t doubt that there are lemons out there, but take one of the updated bikes out for an extended ride. You’ll love it. The gold wing is a great bike, but the RT wins hands down in every category and is better suited to UK roads and widths. There’s a reason why the Police use RTs not just in the UK but around the World.
@@HighlandRider Thank you, you know, what they say, in fact the Pope just mentioned this, regarding “ideological colonisation”. If everyone was the same, the world would be a dull place. Expect more accusations about the Vatican after the Pope speaks out against the destruction of scientific facts.
Hi thanks just sharing my terrible experience with a rt 2022, the tech is a disaster , and I owned RT since 15 years … I had to sell my RT 2022 I m currently looking for a RT 1250 2019. Thanks for your good job. And ride safe
I have a 2020 Goldwing tour. As of today I have put 35,700 miles on. Have been to across the USA several times. 1st the warranty on the Honda 3 years unlimited mileage (BMW warranty is only 36,000 / 3 years). I average 47-55 mpg. The only issue I have had is a blown front speaker. In my opinion the Hondas dash is easier to read & operate. P.S the tour models have heated seats even the passenger back rest.
Having owned both I agree the Honda dash is much better. The Tour does come with a lot more kit than the bagger, heated seats being one but the stuff that is important to me is all their on the B. I did the Route 66 in 2016 (as a solo rider, not a tour) and would love to come back and tour in the US again. Safe riding
Greetings from sunny California, although it’s raining and 48° midday. Lol. Great comparison good sir. Im looking at both the GW and RT, adaptive cruise on the RT is +1, DCT on Goldwing is +1. Leaning slightly towards GW to keep my Africa Twin company.
Africa Twin is a fine bike. I never had the adaptive cruise, but from what I hear it needs a couple more years of development to be good. I had it on my BMW i4 and did not like it one bit, the thing could never make up its mind how close to the car it was tracking it should be, and I shut it down. Also, cars changing lanes and closing the gap between you and the tracking car caused harsh braking as the system panicked. I personally would not trust it on a bike, but that is me. GW Rules!
@@HighlandRider good comments. I think adaptive cruise could be nice on the long freeway/highway stretches in the western USA that go for dozens of miles. Just enough cars at various speeds to make ACC seem handy, at least it is with our cars. BTW, your Videos are excellent, keep up the informative and interesting work.
@@HighlandRider I'm from Brazil and I'm in my second Volvo car with ACC, my first was a 2011 S60 T6, which was the first to make ACC available here. In 2020 I switched to an XC60 D5. What worked very well in the 2011 S60 was wonderful in the 2020 XC60. I always used it even in urban traffic without any problems, the 2011 S60 had some difficulty on the road with several lanes in curves to the left, where sometimes I thought the vehicle in the next lane was in the same lane and slowed down. In the 2020 XC60 this no longer happens. The technology is different, the S60 used radar and the XC60 used a camera. The new XC90 can come with LIDAR (Laser Scanning), which is unbeatable.
I Own GL DCT since 2018 and done 18k on it. It is incomparable comfort😎. I’m changing to RT. I had 2 test rides on variety of roads for 2-3h each time. Comparing both bikes it’s just not fair. Both are different. I’m really a tech guy and trust me sooner or later you will find out GL have it’s weakness on connectivity as well. It’s down to software on machines and phones. Always some glitches but manageable. I had some disconnects from phone on RT on test rides too 😁. As much as I love my GL with DCT and could talk about it all day long it’s time for change. I miss more flickable, nimble and less weight bike. Decision has been made… I wish I could afford to have both in my garage and hopefully I won’t be disappointed with RT. Ride safe !
You will like the RT. I did say that the two bikes are different, but the comparison is fair because I owned both, so it is my view. The RT is more agile, and be careful of the speed because it build up fast and before you know it you are at licence shredding velocity. I have a lot of fun on my GL, and I prefer the tech, mainly because it all works and has never let me down, where as on the RT, it never worked properly. Enjoy your bike.
I did the same got the Goldwing Bagger 6spd 2021. had 1250 RT 2019 few problems lost faith found my throttle hand got pins and needles after an hour even with Nippy Normans after market hand grips the gearbox at lower gears was bash crash wallop. bit cramped for me even after lowering footrests. Navigator v1 no thanks was on my second and having problems on that . 12000 on the Wing no problems other than i replaced the front brake pads due to the nearside inner pad wearing quickly . Not uncommon looking at you tube on front brake replacement. Did check to see it was not sticking etc.
Like ice cream. It’s great to have choices. What is best or better is what is best for the buyer each based in the boxes a product checks off for them. Like anything. It’s perhaps never been a better time in motorcycling history to enjoy really great motorcycles. For me the DCT has been a game changer. It’s good looks, Lexus smooth with highway or intercity capabilities. BMW has many excellent qualities just different. A flavor choice.
The DCT is, as you say, a game changer, but the other thing is the reverse gear which makes moving the bike around a breeze. I also agree it is all down to personal preference
Good day, Like your BMW Ev car the 1250 RT is for different usage . If used for long trip the Gold Wing is an heavy bike more for highway usage the RT is a more balanced bike for both city-highway. Both are excellent machine but for my day to day riding I stick to the RT.
very true Richard, but I also find the 'wing good in town, especially when I go to Edinburgh where I have to go right into the centre. The Goldwing is heavier and the RT is more agile
Loving my RT…a friend of mine owns a 2019 Goldwing and is very frustrated due to the low gas mileage and the audio system is difficult to work. The TFT on the RT is much easier. My friend is now looking at the K1600B Grand America.
The mpg is higher than on the RT but the tech on the 'wing I find much easier than on the RT with its app based system, but we all have our own preferences so good luck to your mate with the K16
Interesting and well considered comparison. I have a 22 Goldwing bagger, same as yours and love it. It is heavy of course, but it hasn't yet failed to do anything asked of it, including the back lanes. The tech works perfectly and as you say it causes no stress at all and complements the ride experience. Apart from the performance being excellent when called for, the two big things for me are 1. Comfort - The Wing has to be THE most comfortable bike I have ever ridden and for someone who has back, neck and knee issues, the big blue beast is very forgiving. Fitting forward tour pegs just finishes the whole bike off. Also 2. the DCT gearbox is so good that it is difficult to describe to anyone that hasn't ridden a dual clutch Wing, just how special and unique it is. It also has the manual mode if you want to add some spice, or combine both auto and manual shift as well, which I don't think a lot of observers appreciate. I have owned an older RT, but not the latest, which I really liked. My mate has a 22 RT, bought just after I got my GW and he was beside himself with anger and frustration over the whole shite connectivity issue as well as feeling the bike was bland and had no soul to speak, mind you he had just traded in a Ducati 1200, so his expectation for excitement was probably quite skewed, given those bikes were chalk and cheese. At one point he wanted to just take it back to BMW and tell them to stick it where the sun rarely shines (as you did), however now that he has settled in with it and done a few tours, he really likes it. So for me I agree with your conclusion, for much the same reasons and she will be a keeper. I dare say I would quite like the RT as well if I rode one. 😜
I think we get too hung up on what a bike is for. My GW is supremely comfortable on a run, fun in the twisties, great as a commuter if I go into Edinburgh, and M25 filtering is a breeze. It is heavy but that creep function makes life so much easier, and once going it feels so light, maybe not so agile. You would like the RT but the wing will do everything it does, most of it better.
I am perhaps fortunate that I did not experience any mechanical, electrical or connectivity failures with my 22 RT. Having owned many BMW cars since (89 325I) and BMW motorcycles along the way (you can see some on my channel), I am a fan of BMW products. BMW builds beautiful and exciting cars and motorcycles. Because of BMW's corporate culture and design philosophy , some of the technologies they implement requires the latest Phones and the latest software updates. If you have a 5 year old Iphone with missing updates, it is unreasonable to expect the connectivity to function properly. To me the RT is the most complete bike I've ever ridden or owned. I am glad you found the bike you're 're happy with.
On the phones thing it isn't the age of the phone that is the thing. Any smart phone is pretty much capable but having phone knowledge is useful for managing the apps. many people have a second phone just for the bike because the BMW app is dominant and also drains power. As to phone size, Motorrad themselves told me they never thought about the size of the cubby hole where you put the phone, and in fact, older phones are a better fit because they tend to be smaller. Updates to the app can throw out the phone and updates to the phone can throw out the app and part of the development of the app has been to make it more stable. For reference, I had a Samsung S21 which was too big for the slot, and then used a Samsun S10.
Looking to replace my 2006 FJR1300, the competition comes down to the ‘23 RT and GW Bagger. Owned a ‘98 RT, loved that bike save for the surging, an all day mile muncher. Last GW owned was a 1980, the non fared model, another superlative (for its day) bike. Researching the RT and GW so came onto your channel, watched 2 vids and subscribed as you seems a man of solid reason, very refreshing now-a-days for sure. All that said one element that just about disqualifies the GW is the matt paint, few people seem to mention it. Bikes get scratched, there no fixing matt finishes; wet sanding and polishing is not an option (I owned a detail shop for years), being anal I detest scratches while other see them as character or battle scars. Matt paint on a GW makes little sense to me, Honda’s not Harley for sure and even Harley is moving away from matt paint. The GW demographic can’t possibly prefer it, Honda’s marketing team must have bumped their collective heads on low hanging beams by not offering a non-matt finish on the bagger. I don’t want to move up to the tour model to get real paint, too heavy and expensive unfortunately and the additional cost of Apex paint protection film application is prohibitive. Curious on your opinion after living in a matt blue world? Thanks for sharing and ride long, hard, and safe. Cheers!!
It is easy to clean and I` have no scratches but it doesn't look easy to repair, although reflecting back on my RT not sire how easy that would have been. I would have liked the same colour paint options on the tour, especially on a bike costing this much, rather than one colour for everyone. I like the colour and the look, but the previous year model range had grey and I would not have bought that one. I like the matt blue world but I preferred the electric blue of my RT
@@HighlandRider any clear coated paint is easily fixed with varying degrees of polishes and polishing pads, both cutting and finishing. Deep scratches can be corrected with a wet sanding (generally 3000 grit) and follow-up polishing as noted above. No such process exists for matt finishes as they would become shiny in the areas being corrected. The only alternative is repaint which is difficult with matt paints; my solution would be to immediately have the bike protective filmed to eliminate scratching in the first place. I’m not adverse to the appearance of matt finishes, they have their place, but knowing that once scared up it’s live with or repaint puts me off to the GW Bagger which I’d dearly love to own. I’ve not seen a bagger yet without scared up panniers, even new in dealer show rooms. I’m envious you have one, it’s truly a magnificent bike!!! Enjoy.
@@steveottavaino3804 Panniers get dinked on any bike, and in fact the ones on my RT suffered a lot from boot scrapes from me getting on and off. At the moment mine are scratch free but I don't expect them to stay that way. It is magnificent to own and ride, and I enjoy every ride.
I have a 22 Goldwing . I love the light and dark blue color combo. 4 mo of ownership I stuck over $10K U.S. into it . I put on a aftermarket suspension from TRAXXION Dynamics and several other accessories. I love the DCT too. I’m thinking about getting a second bike . Could you recommend the RT or GS? I love Hondas reliability that I don’t think the Germans can touch on their best day,but even though if you think they may have ironed out the bugs from the year you had it may be fun for a second bike .
Both the RT and Gs are great bikes so depends on your needs. I would only buy a GS if I was planning some mild off-roading. Both have BMW's complex app based connections for Sat Nav/music, which even after 3 years of development still has problems, and there are some bikes that were built late on a Friday afternoon, but a good one is great to ride. What BME do well is building bikes that handle better than pretty much anything on the road, are economical but above all, great fun. If I could finds one that was reliable I would buy another.
@@HighlandRider I just ride on the road. I like the upright position of the GS and the comfortable bend of the knee on that bike . I think it’s comfortable like the Goldwing kinda. I like the RT for it’s better handling but I don’t think it’s as comfortable as the other 2 as I think it’s a little more cramped due to the sharper knee angle. I think I will wait for BMW to perfect their complex electronics a little more but leaning towards a GS with Highway tires .👍
I think you’ll find owning both will leave one sitting neglected because they are so similar in purpose, to me a second bike should be for what the other doesn’t quite do well for example off road riding or a nice cruiser for short in town rides or customizing etc. Or a sports bike for a weekend trip to the twisties. Don’t get me wrong I’d love to have several bikes but having owned 2 touring bikes at the same time just never rode them both enough to justify keeping both.
I followed you through that period when you were having your bad experiences with the RT. I had bought mine almost exactly the same time as you had. When I was following your terrible issues I was just waiting for the same nightmare to start for me..! I thought, crikey have I bought a dog of a bike or something...? seeing and reading your experiences. Some of the things you were having, going on, with the nav' I could see were wrong and frustrating. I didn't get anything as bad as that, or any of the other stuff you had. I did have the frustarting slow start up and wait for the Nav to engage properly....and then the annoying fact of once you stopped and then carrying on, would have to set up the whole thing again..!! AAARGH!! I have to admit was the same as you. I didn't get any drop outs though...?! Thank God, but the whole new fangled idea of the TFT and how it was working or, meant to work, was a massive learning curve and of course you do have to regularly get your software updated, at the dealers! which is very frustrating and I don't think that should be that way, surely they have the knowledge/tech' for it all to automatically update through your phone By your phone being connected, when in use. I did feel particularly bad for you when you had your hill start brake issue, being totally seized on and not let go, leaving you stranded.....That one did worry me and I dreaded it happening to me, "touch wood" that it doesn't......I did worry about that for an age....Nothing happened and that feeling wore off, but, of course it could still happen. Just hope it doesn't. I do have a good dealer and they have been very helpful and still are. The annoying thing that has happened and was fixed under it's warranty, was that stupid emissions exhaust flapper valve problem! BMW don't act like they have a problem and they have had the problem for so very long and, do nothing about it??!! Just change it under warranty, when it happens!!! What a total ball ache and yes ok, they will change it....But where is it going to happen for someone..? When on their Arctic tour in Norway, a million miles from anywhere and it's 10 o'clock in the evening...??? Not really that impressive, not!! Yes it has happened to me, but luckily not in that scenario....Why oh why don't they just fix it..?????? I do love the latest Goldwing, tour DCT, would have it but it's so expensive new, even second hand they are still a very pretty penny! All the very best to you.
I did hear some right horror stories; one huy with a GS who on the third failure of the flappy valve got stranded in Spain. The valve problem is something that affects lots of manufacturers, notably Ducati owners commented a lot on the problem, so it seems one of those issues no one can solve, not least because it doesn't affect all bikes.
You know BMW has many safety Futures but for Goldwing people doesn't talk much about them. For example cornering abs. I'm considering buying Goldwing bagger but it doesn't have traction control. What are your personal thoughts on this subject?
I ride in a spirited fashion along the twisty roads of Northern Scotland and I have never thought about the fact I don't have traction control. I find the modes, especially rain to be effective in managing engine output when the roads are a little greasy. The Goldwing is a simpler machine when it comes to riding tech, but that is less togo wrong. On my RT, the Hill Control, a safety feature, jammed on meaning I could not go forward or back, and in the end I had to turn the system off just to overcome the 'brain' that thought any slight incline the bike should lock on the brakes. My back brake locked on when the switch corroded after one year of use, then add in the exhause valve sticking leaving me high and dry, makes me a littled biased against this so called safety tech on BMW's that causes more problems than it solves. As bikes, the RT is lighter and faster, the Goldwing more relaxed and comfortable. I would also trust throttle control over cornering ABS.
@@HighlandRider One more question..between the 5th generation Gold Wing with the clutch and the 6th generation with the DCT, which is more pleasant to ride?
As a person who currently owns both an RT (2018 1200RT) and a Goldwing (2021 GW Tour DCT) I will offer this bit of thought. I currently have 27,000 miles on my 18 RT, which I purchased new. It has all the bells and whistles - quickshifter (never use it), keyless ride, central locking, color matched top box with brake light, cruise, all of the luxury items. First off - the good. As mentioned in this video, the bike's performance ridden solo in Dynamic mode is really quite excellent. Most of the positive points made by this video I concur with. I do all of my own service work, and I was a BMW dealer some years ago. It's not difficult but requires focus and mental organization like most motorcycles. BMW luggage is really superb, a good measure about almost anything else. Fuel economy is very acceptable. Now - the NOT SO GOOD. The audio system is complete trash, no way to sugar coat it. I don't use speakers, but they suck too. The bike is a bit tall for me at 5'7" (170 cm), even with the factory low seat. Heated seat is weak, as mentioned, even on the low seat. Bike is a bit tippy 2up with luggage, I have to concentrate on that. OEM seats are just OK. The most unacceptable move by BMW is the decision NOT to provide factory service data and manuals to the consumer. THIS FACT ALONE MEANS THAT I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER BMW, I hope it is shown to be in violation of US right-to-repair laws. Last summer, I bought a barely-used 2021 GW Tour DCT - it had a total of 415 miles on it - the original owner discovered he had heart issues and was advised not to ride as a result. There were no bikes to be had new, so it was a perfect find for me. I now have 8100 miles on it, and just returned from a 3000-mile trip to Key West. The bike performed flawlessly, with one small exception. The fuel door release stopped functioning when the door was open at a fuel stop. I simply removed the metal catch and used a piece of tape to secure the door until I can get it fixed. I got a high of over 53 mpg and an average of 44. The tech on the bike worked quite well, I used Apple Car Play extensively to good effect. The connectivity has improved dramatically with the addition of a Bluetooth dongle in lieu of having the phone plugged in in the cubby - connection to the Sena SRL Mesh in my Shoei Neo Tech II was excellent. Handling is not as crisp as the RT but still surprising for such a big machine, and the engine is magic. The DCT requires concentration and care at slow maneuvering speed, but it gets better with experience. 99% of the time, it's a great match to the engine. Even after saying that, I would be just as happy with a 6-speed. The reverse and creep forward modes are handy. I've not ridden it with a passenger yet, so no opinion to share there. Brakes are EXCELLENT, the OEM seat gets a lot of criticism, but I have no issue with it. I performed the initial service and it was very straightforward. Weather protection is superb. Using Siri through Car Play is extremely useful for getting navigation help on the move. On the negative side, there's not much. It doesn't handle like a 550 pound bike, but it doesn't handle like an 800+ pound bike either. The audio system (radios and such) is very mediocre too. The factory included navigation is "just OK". Legal advice probably was the reason why the navigation is fiddly to use on the move. Garmin is still the standard by which GPS is judged in my opinion. In case you're wondering, my conclusion is much the same as the video poster's. My RT is going up for sale next week.
‘21 RT owner who has appreciated your perspective. Saw you at 999 subs and wanted to offer the 1k as a ‘thank you’. Ride safe!
Thank you so much. I never imagined I would get 1k subscribers and I like the fact that publishing my experiences has helped a few folks make decisions. Thank you for your support
Thank you for your review. I’m debating on giving up my 2021 H-D Street Glide Special for a BMW R 1250 RT.
I have had a Street Glide Special, a 2017 model with the first Milwaukee Eight engine and I loved that bike. The GW is quite like it in weight and handling, plus the tech is very similar as well, more of an update on my Street Glide. The beemer is lighter, faster and better handling, plus you can get a full faced helmet in the panniers. The tech is way more complex, still doesn't work as well and you can only get a standard sized phone in the pocket. Personally I would stick with the Harley
As you know, I also have a 2021R 1250 RT and initially my frustration level was pressed to redline as yours was. But now after two software updates everything is finally running great. I tend to do 50% aggressive sport riding and 50% highway touring. I do love the shift cam motor the transmission and the suspension on the RT. I’m glad we finally got everything sorted out. I have come to enjoy the ride connected app as I have discovered many new roads in my area that I never knew existed. Ride safe my friend!
What killed me for my bike was the brake failure through corrosion. I lost all confidence in the bike but had BMW been a bit more open I would probably have just bought another one. I did get an apology from the dealership that they should have handled my situation better, but that said I am happy with my wing
Assume you have worked out how to plan a route on desktop and import to the bmw app. For us the app has totally changed the routes we take.
@@daveandrew8845 no I have not figured out how to plan a route on the desktop and import. Not sure what software is required.
@@daveandrew8845 I did. I use and still use Calimoto
Thanks you for that considered comparison. My wife and I are coming up to 1 year's ownership of our 2014 Goldwing and we're deeply satisfied with it. For us it is ALL about the 2-up riding - well, almost all! Maybe one day we'll be in a position to seriously consider a new DCT GL1800.
Good to hear, and I do think, a bit like Harley's many bikers are too keen to write them off as only good for one thing
does your bike handle good have you rode the new generation how do the 2 compare thanks I have a gl1000 at first it handled like freight train straight line after I got on to it its not that bad
@@kevincraig8257 It does handle, but it is no sportsbike. Rides more like a big cruiser and is great fun when you are hustling along
Interesting as always, obviously followed your RT experience and while we understand why you got rid of yours, we had a 21 reg R1250RT and was initially very disappointed with the navigation after a few software updates they eventually got it sorted. In November we decided to swap the BMW and after considering lots of others including goldwing we decided to get another RT. Helped by the fact that the dealer is good. We tend to do about 280 miles on a ride out and always two up. Anyway a balance review on your part. All the best...
I can see why you would change like for like, especially with a good dealer
@@HighlandRider thanks, much as I said when we first got the RT it was frankly a disappointment. But two software versions later and sorted. I watched your video and interesting your thoughts on navigation system. Personally when we swapped the RT considered a goldwing, and decided for two up touring on twisty roads possibly for us the RT is best. The navigation for us is a gamechanger. Particularly like the fact can plan a ride on Google maps and export to a gpx file, or calimoto etc and then using a shared drive such as Google drive or Dropbox the route is easily imported into the BMW app. The very latest version starts and connects far quicker and never drops out. Finally the dealer has always supported us well and when looking to swap came up wit a compelling deal. We did look at the K1600 which much as the goldwing the heart liked a 6 cylinder engine. The K1600 was tempting but again think the RT represents better value as well as being a bit more agile.... Good you are happy with the honda, shame you had such problems with your RT
@@daveandrew8845 I love the good stories. the killer for me was the brake problem as I lost confidence in the bike. The software updates I had made a huge difference and also being a beta tester for BMW (official) I got to test the ongoing development of the app.
Hi, I owned 2020 k1600 GT.SE. got a call back with a suspension issue,
Then the starter motor gave trouble,
big strip down for that!
Enjoyed the power and 6 cylinder sound.
Now on to the 2020 Goldwing DCT like yours but Matt black, it's great because you are always in the right gear, never stall, center of gravity 👌,
Forward and reverse creep👌
Thanks for your views 👍
I didn't mention the creep but that is such a great function. I love the matt black colour, hated the mud grey and like my blue one.
Same here, boss. 2 k's, so much crap was going on and so expensive to fix. had enough. Moved to a new 2020 GW, DCT, Tour. What a pleasure. 15K so far, zero problems, I mean ZERO!!! BMW can shove it up the A#@. No more running to the dealer. Incredible machine, the Goldwing is. Just superb.
@@alp3781 I haven't spoken to my dealer since the day I collected the bike apart from booking first service. With my BMW I was never out of the dealership
Thanks a lot for your really interesting video. I'm looking for a bike to travel and also do camping with it and some time camping mean also some gravel road. I love the Goldwing but to heavy and also to much fuel consomption. Do you know if I buy a 2023 R1250RT the problem with the exhaust valve and the break will be fix? And for the tech if I use a tomtom gps I should be ok and forgot the bmw connection problem. I do not listen music will I ride I need all my attention for the road and other cars.
Hello Robert. The exhaust valve problem affects all twins that are V or opposed, not just BMW but Ducati, Honda and Yamaha. For some reason, not on a Harley. It is also a problem that doesn't affect every bike, probably around 5% of bikes may suffer the problem. The latest valve fitted post problem to 2021 bikes, and as standard to 2022 bikes and beyond appears much less likely to fail, but there is always a chance of failure. If it does happen it tends to stick in the 'open' position so you can ride safely until you get it repaired. The only bad problem is if it seizes in the 'closed' position because then you cannot start the bike, but that is very rare and I only know of one case where that happened, on a GS. If you buy a 2023 bike and the problem happens it will be covered under warranty so should not be a big problem.
Very interesting listening to your observations. I would fall into the comparing apples to oranges band but did enjoy your thought process. I’ve had 4 RT,s and currently have the K 1600gtl but I’m changing that shortly to go back to a new RT.
I found the GTL and the Goldwing just too heavy to manoeuvre around the garage etc.
I like your observation on presence, the ignoring of the RT is a plus for me, I think you are right but to me it’s a positive, it just blends in and goes unnoticed but usually does all things very well.
Enjoy the Goldwing it certainly has appeal
The one bit I didn't mention about the Goldwing is the creep function which is brilliant for moving in out and around the garage. All bikes should have it
I ended up having to buy a 21 plate RT because of supply issues in autumn 2022. BM were only selling stock bikes, and I didn’t want to waste £1k on the unnecessary, somewhat American idea of a radio, so secondhand it was. It was impossible to get ACC without the radio, at that time. Prices were peaking and goi second hand stock in my spec was hard to come by.
Fortunately, a BM salesman who’d moved from a dealership I used to use, to one that was now my local, held onto a bike for 2 months for me! The bike had all the 719 stuff (which I didn’t want due to commuting on the RT) and the necessary (for M1 journeys) ACC. I had one issue with the Connected App. This was solved with an update overnight by the dealer.
The App and the bike has not let me down. I’ve put 6k miles on since mid-November, which includes a one month lay off where I worked from home. The bike and the tech has been perfect. I don’t doubt that there are lemons out there, but take one of the updated bikes out for an extended ride. You’ll love it. The gold wing is a great bike, but the RT wins hands down in every category and is better suited to UK roads and widths. There’s a reason why the Police use RTs not just in the UK but around the World.
@@albertol1529 You are obviously delighted with your choice, enjoy the ride
@@HighlandRider Thank you, you know, what they say, in fact the Pope just mentioned this, regarding “ideological colonisation”. If everyone was the same, the world would be a dull place. Expect more accusations about the Vatican after the Pope speaks out against the destruction of scientific facts.
Thanks, enjoy your bike too and thanks for making the videos.
Hi thanks just sharing my terrible experience with a rt 2022, the tech is a disaster , and I owned RT since 15 years … I had to sell my RT 2022 I m currently looking for a RT 1250 2019. Thanks for your good job. And ride safe
Sorry to hear that. Hope you find the right bike soon
I have a 2020 Goldwing tour. As of today I have put 35,700 miles on. Have been to across the USA several times. 1st the warranty on the Honda 3 years unlimited mileage (BMW warranty is only 36,000 / 3 years). I average 47-55 mpg. The only issue I have had is a blown front speaker. In my opinion the Hondas dash is easier to read & operate. P.S the tour models have heated seats even the passenger back rest.
Having owned both I agree the Honda dash is much better. The Tour does come with a lot more kit than the bagger, heated seats being one but the stuff that is important to me is all their on the B. I did the Route 66 in 2016 (as a solo rider, not a tour) and would love to come back and tour in the US again. Safe riding
Greetings from sunny California, although it’s raining and 48° midday. Lol. Great comparison good sir. Im looking at both the GW and RT, adaptive cruise on the RT is +1, DCT on Goldwing is +1. Leaning slightly towards GW to keep my Africa Twin company.
Africa Twin is a fine bike. I never had the adaptive cruise, but from what I hear it needs a couple more years of development to be good. I had it on my BMW i4 and did not like it one bit, the thing could never make up its mind how close to the car it was tracking it should be, and I shut it down. Also, cars changing lanes and closing the gap between you and the tracking car caused harsh braking as the system panicked. I personally would not trust it on a bike, but that is me. GW Rules!
@@HighlandRider good comments. I think adaptive cruise could be nice on the long freeway/highway stretches in the western USA that go for dozens of miles. Just enough cars at various speeds to make ACC seem handy, at least it is with our cars. BTW, your Videos are excellent, keep up the informative and interesting work.
@@oldtimer3824 Thanks, now the sun is shining and the snow has stopped have lots planned
@@HighlandRider I'm from Brazil and I'm in my second Volvo car with ACC, my first was a 2011 S60 T6, which was the first to make ACC available here. In 2020 I switched to an XC60 D5. What worked very well in the 2011 S60 was wonderful in the 2020 XC60. I always used it even in urban traffic without any problems, the 2011 S60 had some difficulty on the road with several lanes in curves to the left, where sometimes I thought the vehicle in the next lane was in the same lane and slowed down. In the 2020 XC60 this no longer happens. The technology is different, the S60 used radar and the XC60 used a camera. The new XC90 can come with LIDAR (Laser Scanning), which is unbeatable.
I Own GL DCT since 2018 and done 18k on it. It is incomparable comfort😎. I’m changing to RT. I had 2 test rides on variety of roads for 2-3h each time. Comparing both bikes it’s just not fair. Both are different. I’m really a tech guy and trust me sooner or later you will find out GL have it’s weakness on connectivity as well. It’s down to software on machines and phones. Always some glitches but manageable. I had some disconnects from phone on RT on test rides too 😁. As much as I love my GL with DCT and could talk about it all day long it’s time for change. I miss more flickable, nimble and less weight bike. Decision has been made… I wish I could afford to have both in my garage and hopefully I won’t be disappointed with RT. Ride safe !
You will like the RT. I did say that the two bikes are different, but the comparison is fair because I owned both, so it is my view. The RT is more agile, and be careful of the speed because it build up fast and before you know it you are at licence shredding velocity. I have a lot of fun on my GL, and I prefer the tech, mainly because it all works and has never let me down, where as on the RT, it never worked properly. Enjoy your bike.
And I’m more than sure you will enjoy GL. Thanks for advice re speeding … I noticed 😅
I did the same got the Goldwing Bagger 6spd 2021.
had 1250 RT 2019 few problems lost faith
found my throttle hand got pins and needles after an hour
even with Nippy Normans after market hand grips
the gearbox at lower gears was bash crash wallop.
bit cramped for me even after lowering footrests.
Navigator v1 no thanks was on my second and having problems on that .
12000 on the Wing no problems other than i replaced the front brake pads
due to the nearside inner pad wearing quickly .
Not uncommon looking at you tube on front brake replacement.
Did check to see it was not sticking etc.
I will look out for that, good to know
Like ice cream. It’s great to have choices. What is best or better is what is best for the buyer each based in the boxes a product checks off for them. Like anything. It’s perhaps never been a better time in motorcycling history to enjoy really great motorcycles. For me the DCT has been a game changer. It’s good looks, Lexus smooth with highway or intercity capabilities. BMW has many excellent qualities just different. A flavor choice.
The DCT is, as you say, a game changer, but the other thing is the reverse gear which makes moving the bike around a breeze. I also agree it is all down to personal preference
Good on you for explaining your bias. We all have them and like opinions they all stink. 🙂
Good day,
Like your BMW Ev car the 1250 RT is for different usage . If used for long trip the Gold Wing is an heavy bike more for highway usage the RT is a more balanced bike for both city-highway. Both are excellent machine but for my day to day riding I stick to the RT.
very true Richard, but I also find the 'wing good in town, especially when I go to Edinburgh where I have to go right into the centre. The Goldwing is heavier and the RT is more agile
Loving my RT…a friend of mine owns a 2019 Goldwing and is very frustrated due to the low gas mileage and the audio system is difficult to work. The TFT on the RT is much easier. My friend is now looking at the K1600B Grand America.
The mpg is higher than on the RT but the tech on the 'wing I find much easier than on the RT with its app based system, but we all have our own preferences so good luck to your mate with the K16
Interesting and well considered comparison. I have a 22 Goldwing bagger, same as yours and love it. It is heavy of course, but it hasn't yet failed to do anything asked of it, including the back lanes. The tech works perfectly and as you say it causes no stress at all and complements the ride experience. Apart from the performance being excellent when called for, the two big things for me are 1. Comfort - The Wing has to be THE most comfortable bike I have ever ridden and for someone who has back, neck and knee issues, the big blue beast is very forgiving. Fitting forward tour pegs just finishes the whole bike off. Also 2. the DCT gearbox is so good that it is difficult to describe to anyone that hasn't ridden a dual clutch Wing, just how special and unique it is. It also has the manual mode if you want to add some spice, or combine both auto and manual shift as well, which I don't think a lot of observers appreciate. I have owned an older RT, but not the latest, which I really liked. My mate has a 22 RT, bought just after I got my GW and he was beside himself with anger and frustration over the whole shite connectivity issue as well as feeling the bike was bland and had no soul to speak, mind you he had just traded in a Ducati 1200, so his expectation for excitement was probably quite skewed, given those bikes were chalk and cheese. At one point he wanted to just take it back to BMW and tell them to stick it where the sun rarely shines (as you did), however now that he has settled in with it and done a few tours, he really likes it. So for me I agree with your conclusion, for much the same reasons and she will be a keeper. I dare say I would quite like the RT as well if I rode one. 😜
I think we get too hung up on what a bike is for. My GW is supremely comfortable on a run, fun in the twisties, great as a commuter if I go into Edinburgh, and M25 filtering is a breeze. It is heavy but that creep function makes life so much easier, and once going it feels so light, maybe not so agile. You would like the RT but the wing will do everything it does, most of it better.
@@HighlandRider Totally agree. M25? You must be racking up some mileage? 🧐
I am perhaps fortunate that I did not experience any mechanical, electrical or connectivity failures with my 22 RT. Having owned many BMW cars since (89 325I) and BMW motorcycles along the way (you can see some on my channel), I am a fan of BMW products. BMW builds beautiful and exciting cars and motorcycles. Because of BMW's corporate culture and design philosophy , some of the technologies they implement requires the latest Phones and the latest software updates. If you have a 5 year old Iphone with missing updates, it is unreasonable to expect the connectivity to function properly. To me the RT is the most complete bike I've ever ridden or owned. I am glad you found the bike you're 're happy with.
On the phones thing it isn't the age of the phone that is the thing. Any smart phone is pretty much capable but having phone knowledge is useful for managing the apps. many people have a second phone just for the bike because the BMW app is dominant and also drains power. As to phone size, Motorrad themselves told me they never thought about the size of the cubby hole where you put the phone, and in fact, older phones are a better fit because they tend to be smaller. Updates to the app can throw out the phone and updates to the phone can throw out the app and part of the development of the app has been to make it more stable. For reference, I had a Samsung S21 which was too big for the slot, and then used a Samsun S10.
Looking to replace my 2006 FJR1300, the competition comes down to the ‘23 RT and GW Bagger. Owned a ‘98 RT, loved that bike save for the surging, an all day mile muncher. Last GW owned was a 1980, the non fared model, another superlative (for its day) bike. Researching the RT and GW so came onto your channel, watched 2 vids and subscribed as you seems a man of solid reason, very refreshing now-a-days for sure.
All that said one element that just about disqualifies the GW is the matt paint, few people seem to mention it. Bikes get scratched, there no fixing matt finishes; wet sanding and polishing is not an option (I owned a detail shop for years), being anal I detest scratches while other see them as character or battle scars. Matt paint on a GW makes little sense to me, Honda’s not Harley for sure and even Harley is moving away from matt paint. The GW demographic can’t possibly prefer it, Honda’s marketing team must have bumped their collective heads on low hanging beams by not offering a non-matt finish on the bagger. I don’t want to move up to the tour model to get real paint, too heavy and expensive unfortunately and the additional cost of Apex paint protection film application is prohibitive.
Curious on your opinion after living in a matt blue world? Thanks for sharing and ride long, hard, and safe. Cheers!!
It is easy to clean and I` have no scratches but it doesn't look easy to repair, although reflecting back on my RT not sire how easy that would have been. I would have liked the same colour paint options on the tour, especially on a bike costing this much, rather than one colour for everyone. I like the colour and the look, but the previous year model range had grey and I would not have bought that one. I like the matt blue world but I preferred the electric blue of my RT
@@HighlandRider any clear coated paint is easily fixed with varying degrees of polishes and polishing pads, both cutting and finishing. Deep scratches can be corrected with a wet sanding (generally 3000 grit) and follow-up polishing as noted above. No such process exists for matt finishes as they would become shiny in the areas being corrected. The only alternative is repaint which is difficult with matt paints; my solution would be to immediately have the bike protective filmed to eliminate scratching in the first place. I’m not adverse to the appearance of matt finishes, they have their place, but knowing that once scared up it’s live with or repaint puts me off to the GW Bagger which I’d dearly love to own. I’ve not seen a bagger yet without scared up panniers, even new in dealer show rooms. I’m envious you have one, it’s truly a magnificent bike!!! Enjoy.
@@steveottavaino3804 Panniers get dinked on any bike, and in fact the ones on my RT suffered a lot from boot scrapes from me getting on and off. At the moment mine are scratch free but I don't expect them to stay that way. It is magnificent to own and ride, and I enjoy every ride.
and I was wrong, just found a scratch at the top of the right pannier
Tiny side and top cases on the Gwing. Odd for a bike that is marketed as a tourer . No Sale.
BMW hands down no contest!!!!
Pleased for you, great bikes when they work
Take my word for it, after more than fifty years of motorcycling... with the GL you won't find a better touring bike!
One must respect experience
I have a 22 Goldwing . I love the light and dark blue color combo. 4 mo of ownership I stuck over $10K U.S. into it . I put on a aftermarket suspension from TRAXXION Dynamics and several other accessories. I love the DCT too. I’m thinking about getting a second bike . Could you recommend the RT or GS? I love Hondas reliability that I don’t think the Germans can touch on their best day,but even though if you think they may have ironed out the bugs from the year you had it may be fun for a second bike .
Both the RT and Gs are great bikes so depends on your needs. I would only buy a GS if I was planning some mild off-roading. Both have BMW's complex app based connections for Sat Nav/music, which even after 3 years of development still has problems, and there are some bikes that were built late on a Friday afternoon, but a good one is great to ride. What BME do well is building bikes that handle better than pretty much anything on the road, are economical but above all, great fun. If I could finds one that was reliable I would buy another.
@@HighlandRider I just ride on the road. I like the upright position of the GS and the comfortable bend of the knee on that bike . I think it’s comfortable like the Goldwing kinda. I like the RT for it’s better handling but I don’t think it’s as comfortable as the other 2 as I think it’s a little more cramped due to the sharper knee angle. I think I will wait for BMW to perfect their complex electronics a little more but leaning towards a GS with Highway tires .👍
@@marklloyd4153 The RT is a little cramped with a more sporty riding position so the GS would be better, and 90% of GS owners never go off road.
I think you’ll find owning both will leave one sitting neglected because they are so similar in purpose, to me a second bike should be for what the other doesn’t quite do well for example off road riding or a nice cruiser for short in town rides or customizing etc. Or a sports bike for a weekend trip to the twisties. Don’t get me wrong I’d love to have several bikes but having owned 2 touring bikes at the same time just never rode them both enough to justify keeping both.
I followed you through that period when you were having your bad experiences with the RT. I had bought mine almost exactly the same time as you had. When I was following your terrible issues I was just waiting for the same nightmare to start for me..! I thought, crikey have I bought a dog of a bike or something...? seeing and reading your experiences. Some of the things you were having, going on, with the nav' I could see were wrong and frustrating. I didn't get anything as bad as that, or any of the other stuff you had. I did have the frustarting slow start up and wait for the Nav to engage properly....and then the annoying fact of once you stopped and then carrying on, would have to set up the whole thing again..!! AAARGH!! I have to admit was the same as you. I didn't get any drop outs though...?! Thank God, but the whole new fangled idea of the TFT and how it was working or, meant to work, was a massive learning curve and of course you do have to regularly get your software updated, at the dealers! which is very frustrating and I don't think that should be that way, surely they have the knowledge/tech' for it all to automatically update through your phone By your phone being connected, when in use. I did feel particularly bad for you when you had your hill start brake issue, being totally seized on and not let go, leaving you stranded.....That one did worry me and I dreaded it happening to me, "touch wood" that it doesn't......I did worry about that for an age....Nothing happened and that feeling wore off, but, of course it could still happen. Just hope it doesn't. I do have a good dealer and they have been very helpful and still are. The annoying thing that has happened and was fixed under it's warranty, was that stupid emissions exhaust flapper valve problem! BMW don't act like they have a problem and they have had the problem for so very long and, do nothing about it??!! Just change it under warranty, when it happens!!! What a total ball ache and yes ok, they will change it....But where is it going to happen for someone..? When on their Arctic tour in Norway, a million miles from anywhere and it's 10 o'clock in the evening...??? Not really that impressive, not!! Yes it has happened to me, but luckily not in that scenario....Why oh why don't they just fix it..?????? I do love the latest Goldwing, tour DCT, would have it but it's so expensive new, even second hand they are still a very pretty penny! All the very best to you.
I did hear some right horror stories; one huy with a GS who on the third failure of the flappy valve got stranded in Spain. The valve problem is something that affects lots of manufacturers, notably Ducati owners commented a lot on the problem, so it seems one of those issues no one can solve, not least because it doesn't affect all bikes.
To sum up both good bikes take your pick.. I fitted Nav 6 to my 2022 RT so much better than the app.
yep
You know what they say. ‘You meet the nicest people on an Honda’ 😊
you do
You know BMW has many safety Futures but for Goldwing people doesn't talk much about them. For example cornering abs. I'm considering buying Goldwing bagger but it doesn't have traction control. What are your personal thoughts on this subject?
I ride in a spirited fashion along the twisty roads of Northern Scotland and I have never thought about the fact I don't have traction control. I find the modes, especially rain to be effective in managing engine output when the roads are a little greasy. The Goldwing is a simpler machine when it comes to riding tech, but that is less togo wrong. On my RT, the Hill Control, a safety feature, jammed on meaning I could not go forward or back, and in the end I had to turn the system off just to overcome the 'brain' that thought any slight incline the bike should lock on the brakes. My back brake locked on when the switch corroded after one year of use, then add in the exhause valve sticking leaving me high and dry, makes me a littled biased against this so called safety tech on BMW's that causes more problems than it solves. As bikes, the RT is lighter and faster, the Goldwing more relaxed and comfortable. I would also trust throttle control over cornering ABS.
Which Gold Wing do you like? DCT or clutch?
DCT. I tested both and was impressed enough with DCT to get past 40 years of having a clutch. Long term, still impressed
@@HighlandRider One more question..between the 5th generation Gold Wing with the clutch and the 6th generation with the DCT, which is more pleasant to ride?
@@jameslaughlin3298 I would go with the 6th with DCT, just so relaxing and also the improvement in handling is huge.
@@HighlandRider Thank you, that’s very helpful. Merry Christmas!
Vanilla or chocolate: which is the better flavor?
Good comparison though
Thereis an argument to be had there, but I would go for chocolate, apart from ice cream, then it would be vanilla
Chocolate. Every time.
I can’t argue with your assessment.Did that dog open and shut that door🤔
She is very clever that way
Goldwing.
The Goldwing is a design icon. You could park it next to a jet fighter and the Honda would get more attention.
I think you'd be surprised by the result if you did that....
😆
BMW's connectivity system is so awful. It works sometime, sometime not, and you never know why...
That is BMW!
As a person who currently owns both an RT (2018 1200RT) and a Goldwing (2021 GW Tour DCT) I will offer this bit of thought. I currently have 27,000 miles on my 18 RT, which I purchased new. It has all the bells and whistles - quickshifter (never use it), keyless ride, central locking, color matched top box with brake light, cruise, all of the luxury items. First off - the good. As mentioned in this video, the bike's performance ridden solo in Dynamic mode is really quite excellent. Most of the positive points made by this video I concur with. I do all of my own service work, and I was a BMW dealer some years ago. It's not difficult but requires focus and mental organization like most motorcycles. BMW luggage is really superb, a good measure about almost anything else. Fuel economy is very acceptable.
Now - the NOT SO GOOD. The audio system is complete trash, no way to sugar coat it. I don't use speakers, but they suck too. The bike is a bit tall for me at 5'7" (170 cm), even with the factory low seat. Heated seat is weak, as mentioned, even on the low seat. Bike is a bit tippy 2up with luggage, I have to concentrate on that. OEM seats are just OK. The most unacceptable move by BMW is the decision NOT to provide factory service data and manuals to the consumer. THIS FACT ALONE MEANS THAT I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER BMW, I hope it is shown to be in violation of US right-to-repair laws.
Last summer, I bought a barely-used 2021 GW Tour DCT - it had a total of 415 miles on it - the original owner discovered he had heart issues and was advised not to ride as a result. There were no bikes to be had new, so it was a perfect find for me. I now have 8100 miles on it, and just returned from a 3000-mile trip to Key West. The bike performed flawlessly, with one small exception. The fuel door release stopped functioning when the door was open at a fuel stop. I simply removed the metal catch and used a piece of tape to secure the door until I can get it fixed. I got a high of over 53 mpg and an average of 44. The tech on the bike worked quite well, I used Apple Car Play extensively to good effect. The connectivity has improved dramatically with the addition of a Bluetooth dongle in lieu of having the phone plugged in in the cubby - connection to the Sena SRL Mesh in my Shoei Neo Tech II was excellent. Handling is not as crisp as the RT but still surprising for such a big machine, and the engine is magic. The DCT requires concentration and care at slow maneuvering speed, but it gets better with experience. 99% of the time, it's a great match to the engine. Even after saying that, I would be just as happy with a 6-speed. The reverse and creep forward modes are handy. I've not ridden it with a passenger yet, so no opinion to share there. Brakes are EXCELLENT, the OEM seat gets a lot of criticism, but I have no issue with it. I performed the initial service and it was very straightforward. Weather protection is superb. Using Siri through Car Play is extremely useful for getting navigation help on the move.
On the negative side, there's not much. It doesn't handle like a 550 pound bike, but it doesn't handle like an 800+ pound bike either. The audio system (radios and such) is very mediocre too. The factory included navigation is "just OK". Legal advice probably was the reason why the navigation is fiddly to use on the move. Garmin is still the standard by which GPS is judged in my opinion.
In case you're wondering, my conclusion is much the same as the video poster's. My RT is going up for sale next week.
I think our experiences are the same, and I have not looked back since getting my GW
You articulate so poorly I cannot watch. And I wanted to.
Can you give some examples of what you mean? His articulation seemed just fine to me, but maybe I'm less sophisticated than you are.