I have the standard 2018 lc 1200 and use it every day on motorway and city roads in rush hour. The weight is perfectly balanced for filtering. As for the GS 'stigma', some bikers seem hell bent to overtake me as soon as possible to prove some sort of point about how much faster/better their bike is, but I've never been stopped by so many people (pedestrians, car drivers and other bikers) to tell me what an amazing looking machine it is. The best bike I've ever owned. I'm a true GS convert.
I have a 2018 GSA 1200 white/rally blue. Live in California and had a guy walked in and ask who had the BMW. He said that is a great looking bike. I was proud to own it seeing it was sitting next to a really nice Harley road king classic.
I have the standard 40th annv. I used own the 1988 Bumblebee so it was cool to be able to have that option. I almost sold mine but after really testing everything out there you just can't find its match for all around use. There are much better off-road options but I would argue all day long that the GS is the best sport tourer in the world. I had a KTM SDGT and apart from weight I find that the GS handles just as well, much more comfortable, plenty of power but feels much more substantial and safer. My only gripe on the GS is that the shifting absolutely sucks. If they could get the shifting improved it would literally be a perfect bike. I just bought the Desert X for my true off-road/adventure rides.
Fantastic Commentary. Gets right to the point and covers EVERYTHING I would want to know about the bike. No dead-air, constant and informative narration. Well done. I am in the market for this exact bike, spec and paint scheme. I'll be making the purchase in full support of this review.
I think I’ve watched your vid around 50 times and it helped me decide to buy. Just done 1000 miles and loving every minute of it. (Traded in Tiger 1200, which I used to think was amazing....)
Just chopped my 2021 R1250RS in for this exact bike (R1250GSA Rallye TE) and really pleased with the thoughts - the RS was outstanding on tour but when you're travelling with a couple of others on GSA's it just doesn't stand up to the same range, type of roads or ability to waft around in comfort in a direct comparison
Mr Flyer! It's finally happened! I Picked her up on the 4th of Jan! 7 test rides between the GS 1250 Exclusive (TE), GSA 1200 '18, GSA 1250 Exclusive & the RT. The missus on the back & on my own. Im gob smacked to say the least at how the two GS brothers are so different in riding. To me, theres no competition between the two. I now know why you made the decision in your vlogs of GS vs GSA. The suspension! To me, the GS is not a "WOW" bike. It just seems to plod a long, a good bike, but nothing really stands out. But the GSA!!!!! WOW!!!!! Hands down, one of the greatest bikes I've ever ridden! It walks over the GS. The extra weight is no issue at all, if you're a fast rider. You could feel the extra weight, but it just appeared to turn & swerve as if the weight was an illusion! Just pour 20 litres instead of 30 & you've then cut 10 kilos off. Thats a 50% weight reduction of the 20 extra kilos the GSA carries. If it wasn't for the GSA, I would've probably gone the RT. My BMW dealership had a brand new 2018 GSA 1200 which i took out as well. Everything was exactly the same with the 1200 & 1250, except the engine. It was a $5K hike for the 1250. But the last ride of the day I went on my own on the 1250 & rode it like a track bike! 148kmh through twisties, & 1 footpeg scrape put a smile on my face. But it was when overtaking on the highway, that torque difference & the smoothness of the engine that forced me to fork out 5k more. I went and bought the 1250 that you've reviewed right here! In the same colours! I didn't realise until hours later that I bought the bike Mr Flyer reviewed!!! So there you go, when you come to Sydney, you've got yourself a '17 Ducati Monster R with full Termi system & mapping, & a fresh 2019 1250 GSA awaiting you! Thank you for eventually making me see better, with all the reviews in the last 2 years. Its been awesome. Who would've thought Id ever buy a GSA? Cheers groover ;-)
That you can go riding on a grotty day yet be positively enthusiastic, says it all - what a magnificent bike. As you said, A real world review. Not for everybody agreed. Just those that enjoy the build quality, the ride and handling, the power, the total ownership experience, its 'presence', and fortunate enough to afford one! I reckon those with bads to say about the GS are really sick as a parrot that they can't. I used to have negatives about electronic wizardry but after 12 totally faultless months with my 2016 GS LC, I am less stressed. Just gold wheels don't do it for me, and I suspect salt and grit on UK winter roads will have them battle-scarred well beofre the warranty expires!
Great review ! I am currently on a Tiger 800 XCA and this spring I was at Touratech offroad school. Rode the R1250GSA and I am absolutly blown away buy this bike. It’s amazing how capable this bike is offroad !! Comfortable, fast, slick ! The Tiger is not a bad bike (infact it’s great) BUT this was something special. This very BMW might very well be my next bike !! Hats of to BMW ! 😎👌
I’ve watched this review 1000s times… I am pulling the trigger this week. Personal opinion, I think this model and colour scheme is the best looking of all models and years including 1300. Cheerio TMF!
It’s technology is massively appealing but the weight and size is slightly off putting to me as a daily driver, but not as off putting as the price! In a lottery win scenario though it’s definitely in the fantasy garage. Great review as always
Size and weight are an illusion not a issue. I have a GSA1200LC with low suspension option and standard seat and at 5 feet 9 i can get both feet flat on the floor. The low suspension also gives the advantage of dropping the centre of gravity which improves low speed handling. tank and fuel capacity are huge but if you look its like a set of panniers wrapping round the engine and once you use up about 1/3 of the tank I would think the C of G is lower than the standard GS. Although bigger and heavier than the Multistrada I had before its much easier to handle at slow speed. As for riding Elgin to the West Cumbrian coast in heavy rain none stop, still felt comfortable, and after 350 miles and the tank still had around 60 miles in it. But as you say the price, I won't be treading mine in just yet.
Its so well balanced as the TMF suggests. I was on the ORS course and there were women at 5’ 6”able to ride and pick it up without issues.... its a breeze to ride
Jim Hutton You need to ride one, so well balanced it’s not an issue, you only fully fill the tank when you need to and when touring it’s not very often...
Three years ago I bought a GS and your review was very helpful. I've now bought a GSA1250 and again your review was a great help in the deciding/buying process. This is for keeps now - should never have got ridden of the first one!!!! I think I'm turning into a TMF collector as I get older.....................
Don't forget to demonstrate the ease of using the centre stand for those who worry about the bike's weight. Like my RT, BMW engineers have thought about CofG, fulcrum and mechanical advantage and ensured it is straight forward and 'simples' (providing front wheel is straight and both c/stand feet are in contact with the ground obviously).
Nice bike, seems to be evolving rather than reinventing, not a bad thing when you have such a good platform. Looking forward to your review of the 1250 RT.
Brilliant timing! Ordered mine today, just gone on you tube to find some reviews and hey presto there you were. In my opinion it's the best looking GS ever in that colour scheme Roll on spring Thanks for the review
I have seen this clip at least 10 times and today I was at BMW dealer in Sweden and drove home my new 1250 GSA with low chassi. Never have I been so satisfied to drive home a new bike as today. Thank you for your videos and great reviwes you do :-)!! This is my 6:th GS/GSA: 1995 1100GS 1997 1100GS 2004 1200GS 2006 1200GS 2012 1200GS 2022 1250GSA And hopefully one day 1300GSA or what ever they will name it ;-)
The BMW R1250GSA is the fat ballet dancer of the motorcycle world. It has no business riding that well for being that heavy, but it does, and you are nothing but amazed when you ride it!
Really not sure how you do it, how your relaxed “chatty” reviews render such excellent, and useful, information. The only problem is that sometimes I’m so impressed with your mode of review that I don’t attend to the motorcycle, and I have to watch the thing all over again. Oh well, watching an excellent review twice is a lot better than being subjected to a crappy review once. So . . . ummmm, what was I thinking about . . . oh yeah, the GSA! Nice bike.
The more i watch your GS video's the more i want one even though I'm not really and adventure or touring rider. I'm already looking forward to the summer.
Yeah I tend to agree Faraz, I think the standard GS looks a bit sharper too without all that scaffolding....I've never wanted for more range (or weight!)...that said the GSA is a a lovely thing.
Good morning from Sweden. I purchased a 1250 gsa 2020 this past weekend and already passed 400km on it. I completely agree with your review and have nothing to complain about apart from the hefty price... However, there is nothing about this bike that make me regret the purchase... not even the price... I'm 26 and I figured that if I don't buy my dream bike NOW, I might not buy one for maybe 20 years... this due to the probable economic burden of starting a family in the near future. My advice to people contemplating whether or not to buy it, I'd say go for it! You might not live to see tomorrow so why wait for the future, if this is something you really dream about owning!! Cheers and keep doing your great reviews!
For you people who are watching this and would like to buy a BMW r 1200 gs but cannot afford one, I would just like to tell you that I bought a 2010 year model recently. It is in very good shape and has very few miles on the meter and was less than half the price of a new one even if it came with panniers and a lot of extras. No, it doesn't have all the latest improvements and the engine isn't quite as powerful as the new ones but.... It is still an incredibly good and fun bike to ride and I can honestly say that I think the power in the engine is more than enough. I am absolutely pleased with it and would certainly recommend anyone who can't afford a new one to consider a second hand BMW GS!
Great review. This bike looks great, most importantly it has an option of a lower seat height! I’m 5”4 (164cm) I tried one today at my local dealer. I actually felt confident ! You mentioned it’s weight & once I stood the bike up and sat on it. I was very surprised as I didn’t feel the weight as much as I thought. I couldn’t test drive it as it was sold. I made up my mind to purchase . One I’m going to be happy . Thankyou I really enjoy & get a lot of from you. 👍😊🇦🇺
What a thing. I will not test ride any gs newer than my own until i want and can afford to make the switch. Lovely review,i will continue to live vicariously whilst loving my own old girl.
Yes good idea HH...that said, whenever I ride my "old" bike (still seems like new to me) I'm always fall back in love with it....great bikes whatever year you have...
Excellent review, really well put across. I've always thought the GS are to big to handle, especially off-road but you have made me really want to test ride one now 👍
Mr Flyer! What timing! The first container load arrives in Sydney on the 7the Dec, & shortly after the second load nearing the end of Dec. Testing the GS, GSA & The RT. All because of you Mr Flyer! 2 years in the making watching all your vids, sir you got me into these bikes. Should have a decision in the next week or so. Im as keen as mustard on throwing a leg over the GSA, cant wait. Brilliant review. I must say your best yet. Loving how your zooming in on the walk around. We can see the bits on the bike much better now that you come in close. It was the only gripe I had with all vloggers, the fact they didn't come in really close when showing stuff. Of course my favourite vlogger is doing it first. Good onya champ, luv ya work! Cheers groover ;-)
Coming out of the K 1600 B after 15 months, it is a featherweight. It is hugely improved over the 1200 GS and GSA that I owned both in the past. You always think it won't get any better, but somehow it does get better. You need to move to CA, so you can do these reviews under sunny skies 12 month around :).
The front brakes are made by a American Company, Hayes. It on the inside of the calliper. They are know for Mountain Bike breaks and other equipment. FYI . Yet again a great Video.
@@TheMissendenFlyer cheers chief…it’s through watching your channel back in the early days that inspired me to get a bike, it was the 800GS then, but now finally I’m my dream bike…cheers.👍ps. Please stop buying new jackets, it’s getting expensive to keep up with you!!…🙈😳
I have waited for the new R1250gs (still not arrived in Australia as I type this) as I’m in the market for a new bike. I felt the R1200GS needed a bit more power/Torque - and perhaps this upgrade will be perfect for me. I don’t need loads of power but it felt wrong to buy the r1200gs when I knew the r1250 was just around the corner. Can’t wait to test ride this bike and the KTM 1290s before I decide. I’m leaning towards the GS prior to test ride.
IMO the new GSA looks better than the standard GS - that large screen and tank seem to restore the proportions of the bike as a whole. Maybe time to check out PCP options to avoid the big upfront price tag :-) ? Looking forward to the 1250RT review - that's also looking better than previous generations - less of a boat and smarter colour schemes.
You promised a GSA review in a comment only yesterday and here it is! Great review, but £21k is a lot of money. Having said that, you only live once and if I waited until I could buy it outright then I’d be needing stabilisers and zimmer frame options. I feel a visit to my BMW dealership may be on the horizon. 🙂
Great video again, New Beemer looks awesome but think my lass will be cutting things off of me if say i want to change bikes again so the 2 month old RT will be staying.
TheMissendenFlyer Liked the Rallye, but the Exclusive looks much better than the photos, first GSA surprised how well it handled despite the extra weight, but then it’s a GS😆.
Hey Buddy, Been a while. Got struck down with a crappy illness and have recently started to learn to walk again! Good to be back in the wild lol. What a bike, always loved these since watching your tour videos, nothing has change - still love these, more so now. Added to the 'When I win the lottery' list, added one for you too :D All the best buddy Chris
Sticking with my xr till the s1000xr shift cam comes out. Did 80k on my 1200gs cracking bike just too heavy and over engineered the xr hits all the right notes . Keep up the good work.
Another informative review TMF. I can't really see the point of the Adventure over the standard GS unless you are crossing desserts and need the extra range. The sat nav 6 will direct you to the nearest fuel station of course, even on my comfy RT with a 25L tank it's rare I don't stop before the fuel runs out, approx 280 miles.
Nice review. Looks like an improvement over my 2014 LC GSA. The only problem I have watching your videos is I want to go out and test ride them/spend money. Cheers!
Many thanks TMF for all the reviews! And the winner is... BMW R1250GS Adventure Exclusive. After many comparisons decided to go the GS way and I am very happy with the bike.
Glad to see they have got ride of the Panakee III tyres, some people loved them, I had no confidence at all and swapped them for Roadtec's after about 2500 miles.
So true...the orginal Anakees are horrible, no feel, lean over and then the bike felt like it was going to fall over. Changed for Michelin Pilot Roads, much better. For the money the bike should not ship with sh*t. Not much point in having cornering abs when the tyres don't inspire any confidence.
@Dave Henderson have you tried anything else. I feel Roadtec are better in wet and dry, defiantly quieter and far easier to flick from side to side. The only thing I can't compare is the mileage but in every other way , as long as you are not taking it off road on anyway more than the grass on the campsite, the roadtecs beats anakee iii hands down
Couldn’t remember if you liked the TFT screen or not😂😂. Got mine ordered for February delivery. Gone for the grey one as personally I don’t like the bronze colour or the white frame, white hand guards and gold wheels of the other two versions.
Nice review. I'm riding a 2015 GSA. Probably not too much of change, except the engine. I plan on keeping my GSA, and riding it totally into the ground :-).
Nice review as always TMF. I had a little chuckle when you didn't mention if the switch gear was illuminated or not. Personally I am waiting for the RS with the shift cam and TFT. More my style of bike. Trouble is I don't like the new colours for it. The new HP colours on the GS look great. If only the new RS would get something a bit more sporty as well. Looking forward to your review of the RS as that new engine and lighter weight should take the current RS up a performance level which I feel it needs.
Absolutely great review I'm on a 2016 RT Iconic and I just may have change to this GSA be nice to see your review on the new RT just to help me make that discussion 👍 ride safe
“Not crazy power like the multistrada...” -Um, the bmw has more torque. That is the entire point of this bike. Great review/experience as always though :)
It is a brilliant bike. Lovely to ride and look at as you turn your head around when walking away. Now for the premium position it holds how about an electric windscreen and heated seats already!
My father in law has the new old 1200 GS for 3 months, and he has problems when ridding with his wife with low speed stability. He had the 2008 Vstom 1000 and did not feel that. The back is about 5 centimetres higher than my new 3 day old Vstrom 1000 XT.
@Dave Henderson Well, I own a 2018 S1000R, and I must say I'm a little flummoxed by these comments about vibes on the S1000R or RR... This bike is extremely smooth, no vibes issues whatsoever! I wonder if it's something they fixed in the latest models, or if it's something that only some suffer from? This bike has the smoothest motorcycle motor I've ridden so far, and I've been riding for 30 years, and I've owned bikes like a GSX-R 600, which are pretty smooth 4-cyls. Maybe I just lucked out? (I've had other bikes in the past that had vibes so bad at certain rev ranges that my hands would tingle after a long ride... Usually on smaller motor singles or twins.)
TMF - just remember to maybe cover the speedo before PC Plod pay you a visit..... Beautiful bike, and definitely on my radar for the future. For now planning on 2nd hand Rallye 2016-2017 - for all the GS whiners get over it - go ride one and get a life. TMF maybe consider getting yourself onto the ORS course in Wales - fantastic course I was given as a gift, and it has sparked my love affair with GS.
I much prefer the standard GS but would like the added weather protection (screen and winglets) and seat comfort the Adventure offers - Seat heating is certainly something that needs to be added to that BMW!!
My experience is that many of the ones who say don't like the mighty GS(A), never really experienced one and used them for serious touring, because if you did, you cannot deny the qualities of the GS. The reason is often emotional, like "oh, I don't have a big belly yet" or "you see too many of them" and in a way, they are right. I know lots of people who changed to the mighty KTM's or Duc's and they love that kind of power, but they all still love the GS and always compare to it. That says enough. True it's expensive, and there are other bikes that can offer equal fun for less money (lets face it, a Yamaha Tracer GT or Versys 1000 costs much less and these bike are lovely to carve some nice mountain roads), but the KTM's or Duc's pricing is no joke either. For me, the GS(A) is still the bike of choice, still going strong after so many years.
@@splodge57 I like almost all bikes, raised with Honda CB's and BMW flattwins, but for serious long distance travelling and touring, the GS(A) is hard to beat. And the current engine is so smooth, it's like BMW hired the Honda Boxer engineers from the Goldwing team, and asked them to chop off 4 cilinders...
Sir, hope to be seeing you do a review on the new BMW F850GS Adventure soon after you got your hands on it. Definitely waiting for your review of that bike👍👍
Happy New Year. In going to be getting either a GSA. 1200 Tiger XCA. KTM Super Adventure or maybe a Kawasaki Versys 1000 this year. I've watched as many reviews as I can find. I've tested the Triumph. Couldn't find anything I didn't like apart from the colour. Tested the 1200 GSA. Going to test the KTM & Versys soon. I'll test 1250GSA too. So after watching this it appears you can't get triple black in the new 1250?? That's a real kick in the jacobs as that's one of the awesome things i liked. Out of those bikes I mention in guessing you would say the GSA is the best all round bike?
Brilliant incisive views as always, what a lovely bike. I watch a few BMW reviews, admittedly it was a bike I'd never thought of owning but that's totally changed, , they are meticulous in their engineering , normal for the German ethos. I would go for the RT I think, as I wouldn't use the off road mods etc. All the best mon ami
Great info! Thanks for the videos....Brilliant! Off to test a 2019 1250 GSA today. $30K in the US fully optioned, with panniers, but I’m already 90% I’ll bring it home based on what I’ve seen. Trading off my 13’ K 1600 GTL, so I hope the power of the GSA won’t disappoint. I love for you to test out comms and what’s the best in your opinion. I have the BMW communication system at the moment, and it’s lacking in sound quality compared to the older wired systems (of which I love...no batteries to run flat).
Has the Kawasaki versys 1000 se 2019 good wind protection? Compared to the bmw gs 1250 or the GSA? What do you think?Nice video! Please try to review the Kawasaki versys 1000 se 2019 and give us your opinion
When I first seen your BMW Gs I didn’t like it but I have to say it’s growing on me . The thing I’m still not sure is that pointy thing coming out from the headlight , does it have a practical purpose? If so what for? And if it doesn’t why didn’t they make it a nice shape?
Love the review and would like to ask a few questions as your a big fan of the gs's, I have had lots of bikes in the past and Z550, CBR1000, Fazers triumph etc an RT1200 lovely bike for commuting and traded in for a Harley softail deluxe, as nice as the bike is ive come to realise its not for me, i think it gives other people more smiles than it does me, probably a senior moment on purchase, whilst not a Tourer and no longer a commuter I keep getting the urge to go back to BMW and although in my 60s do like a long trip now and again, the weight of bikes has never put me off and the RT was a breeze never feeling heavy whilst moving unlike the Harley that's just heavy everywhere you put it, I havent test driven any gs's as yet and been bitten by repair costs on second hand putting price to one side would you advise going for the 1250GS or the 1250GSA also taking into account im not a tourer as yet maybe ide be better going for the 1200GS, if i was to go second hand it would only be a one owner relatively low mileage and or recommendation, Sorry for the long post, value your thoughts
Depends on your budget - cost no issue R1250GSA - if you're on a budget get the second hand 1200 - range won't be an issue but it is lighter to manhandle when full...
Top Job TMF, what i don't like about the new GSs is the Alluminium side faring (side of the radiator) look very tacky, like a boy racer addon, and the lid of the little storage on top of the tank looks amazingly cheap, like the little faring on top of the instument, the one that used to be transparent, it's like BMW said this is where we will cut cost, and we will show to the world!
Yes I get what you mean Diego, I certainly prefer the quality feel of the previous gen GS side panels for sure.....it's almost like BMW changed them just to show they had made a change (not sure it's a change for the better - same with the standard GS side shrouds)....
I have the standard 2018 lc 1200 and use it every day on motorway and city roads in rush hour. The weight is perfectly balanced for filtering. As for the GS 'stigma', some bikers seem hell bent to overtake me as soon as possible to prove some sort of point about how much faster/better their bike is, but I've never been stopped by so many people (pedestrians, car drivers and other bikers) to tell me what an amazing looking machine it is. The best bike I've ever owned. I'm a true GS convert.
Me too - I love mine...
I have a 2018 GSA 1200 white/rally blue. Live in California and had a guy walked in and ask who had the BMW. He said that is a great looking bike. I was proud to own it seeing it was sitting next to a really nice Harley road king classic.
I have the standard 40th annv. I used own the 1988 Bumblebee so it was cool to be able to have that option. I almost sold mine but after really testing everything out there you just can't find its match for all around use. There are much better off-road options but I would argue all day long that the GS is the best sport tourer in the world. I had a KTM SDGT and apart from weight I find that the GS handles just as well, much more comfortable, plenty of power but feels much more substantial and safer. My only gripe on the GS is that the shifting absolutely sucks. If they could get the shifting improved it would literally be a perfect bike. I just bought the Desert X for my true off-road/adventure rides.
When I had my gs I had lesser fines than in my car. It was so comfortable that I couldn't care of other speeders
Fantastic Commentary. Gets right to the point and covers EVERYTHING I would want to know about the bike. No dead-air, constant and informative narration. Well done. I am in the market for this exact bike, spec and paint scheme. I'll be making the purchase in full support of this review.
Glad to be of help Grady!
My GSA is comming in 3 mounths and also ordered a F850 gs for the wife, cant wait.
Oh quite nice; congrats!
Way to go!
Im so envious and pleased for you and the Mrs 👍
I’m so jealous you Lucky dog! Good luck with them!
What made you pick the GSA vs the standard GS? Struggling with this decision myself.
I think I’ve watched your vid around 50 times and it helped me decide to buy. Just done 1000 miles and loving every minute of it. (Traded in Tiger 1200, which I used to think was amazing....)
Told you these are good!
Just chopped my 2021 R1250RS in for this exact bike (R1250GSA Rallye TE) and really pleased with the thoughts - the RS was outstanding on tour but when you're travelling with a couple of others on GSA's it just doesn't stand up to the same range, type of roads or ability to waft around in comfort in a direct comparison
Mr Flyer! It's finally happened! I Picked her up on the 4th of Jan! 7 test rides between the GS 1250 Exclusive (TE), GSA 1200 '18, GSA 1250 Exclusive & the RT. The missus on the back & on my own. Im gob smacked to say the least at how the two GS brothers are so different in riding. To me, theres no competition between the two. I now know why you made the decision in your vlogs of GS vs GSA. The suspension! To me, the GS is not a "WOW" bike. It just seems to plod a long, a good bike, but nothing really stands out. But the GSA!!!!! WOW!!!!! Hands down, one of the greatest bikes I've ever ridden! It walks over the GS. The extra weight is no issue at all, if you're a fast rider. You could feel the extra weight, but it just appeared to turn & swerve as if the weight was an illusion! Just pour 20 litres instead of 30 & you've then cut 10 kilos off. Thats a 50% weight reduction of the 20 extra kilos the GSA carries. If it wasn't for the GSA, I would've probably gone the RT. My BMW dealership had a brand new 2018 GSA 1200 which i took out as well. Everything was exactly the same with the 1200 & 1250, except the engine. It was a $5K hike for the 1250. But the last ride of the day I went on my own on the 1250 & rode it like a track bike! 148kmh through twisties, & 1 footpeg scrape put a smile on my face. But it was when overtaking on the highway, that torque difference & the smoothness of the engine that forced me to fork out 5k more. I went and bought the 1250 that you've reviewed right here! In the same colours! I didn't realise until hours later that I bought the bike Mr Flyer reviewed!!! So there you go, when you come to Sydney, you've got yourself a '17 Ducati Monster R with full Termi system & mapping, & a fresh 2019 1250 GSA awaiting you! Thank you for eventually making me see better, with all the reviews in the last 2 years. Its been awesome. Who would've thought Id ever buy a GSA? Cheers groover ;-)
Told you they were good! Congratulations on the new bike...enjoy but ride safe! All the best - TMF
That you can go riding on a grotty day yet be positively enthusiastic, says it all - what a magnificent bike. As you said, A real world review. Not for everybody agreed. Just those that enjoy the build quality, the ride and handling, the power, the total ownership experience, its 'presence', and fortunate enough to afford one! I reckon those with bads to say about the GS are really sick as a parrot that they can't. I used to have negatives about electronic wizardry but after 12 totally faultless months with my 2016 GS LC, I am less stressed. Just gold wheels don't do it for me, and I suspect salt and grit on UK winter roads will have them battle-scarred well beofre the warranty expires!
Great review !
I am currently on a Tiger 800 XCA and this spring I was at Touratech offroad school. Rode the R1250GSA and I am absolutly blown away buy this bike. It’s amazing how capable this bike is offroad !!
Comfortable, fast, slick ! The Tiger is not a bad bike (infact it’s great) BUT this was something special. This very BMW might very well be my next bike !! Hats of to BMW !
😎👌
I’m still happy with the 2017.5 version. Don’t take the Boxer out of the Boxer. It’s a BMW!….. the gears clunk!…. and the quality is excellent.
I’ve watched this review 1000s times… I am pulling the trigger this week. Personal opinion, I think this model and colour scheme is the best looking of all models and years including 1300.
Cheerio TMF!
Good choice!
I love how you do the transition from bikecam to iPhone...transfixes me every time!
It’s technology is massively appealing but the weight and size is slightly off putting to me as a daily driver, but not as off putting as the price! In a lottery win scenario though it’s definitely in the fantasy garage. Great review as always
Size and weight are an illusion not a issue. I have a GSA1200LC with low suspension option and standard seat and at 5 feet 9 i can get both feet flat on the floor. The low suspension also gives the advantage of dropping the centre of gravity which improves low speed handling. tank and fuel capacity are huge but if you look its like a set of panniers wrapping round the engine and once you use up about 1/3 of the tank I would think the C of G is lower than the standard GS. Although bigger and heavier than the Multistrada I had before its much easier to handle at slow speed. As for riding Elgin to the West Cumbrian coast in heavy rain none stop, still felt comfortable, and after 350 miles and the tank still had around 60 miles in it. But as you say the price, I won't be treading mine in just yet.
I'm 5,7 riding the regular GS
Can't fully flat foot it but I easily manage
Its so well balanced as the TMF suggests. I was on the ORS course and there were women at 5’ 6”able to ride and pick it up without issues.... its a breeze to ride
Easy as a DD, weight is no issue
Jim Hutton You need to ride one, so well balanced it’s not an issue, you only fully fill the tank when you need to and when touring it’s not very often...
Three years ago I bought a GS and your review was very helpful. I've now bought a GSA1250 and again your review was a great help in the deciding/buying process. This is for keeps now - should never have got ridden of the first one!!!! I think I'm turning into a TMF collector as I get older.....................
It happens to us all JLO - thanks for your continued support!
Don't forget to demonstrate the ease of using the centre stand for those who worry about the bike's weight. Like my RT, BMW engineers have thought about CofG, fulcrum and mechanical advantage and ensured it is straight forward and 'simples' (providing front wheel is straight and both c/stand feet are in contact with the ground obviously).
Good one Kevin - wish I had done that now!
Nice bike, seems to be evolving rather than reinventing, not a bad thing when you have such a good platform. Looking forward to your review of the 1250 RT.
Just had a near missed accident and I can safely say the telever saved my life. My previous bike/accident felt like I was on a launching pad
I never tire of the lovely English scenery. I love the weather on those grim blighty days!
Crikey - you should try living here!!
Definitely one of the top motorcycle reviewers on RUclips. It’s a cracking bike for sure.
Very kind of you - thank you!
I love bikes, I love this bike. I want this bike. Great review but the best part of 20k is way too expensive!!
Brilliant timing! Ordered mine today, just gone on you tube to find some reviews and hey presto there you were.
In my opinion it's the best looking GS ever in that colour scheme
Roll on spring
Thanks for the review
Congratulations Danny!
Picking mine up on Monday!!
I have seen this clip at least 10 times and today I was at BMW dealer in Sweden and drove home my new 1250 GSA with low chassi.
Never have I been so satisfied to drive home a new bike as today. Thank you for your videos and great reviwes you do :-)!!
This is my 6:th GS/GSA:
1995 1100GS
1997 1100GS
2004 1200GS
2006 1200GS
2012 1200GS
2022 1250GSA
And hopefully one day 1300GSA or what ever they will name it ;-)
Congratulations!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks!
That wish for a 1300 GS didn't age well 😂
@@shrimpii3155 😂
The BMW R1250GSA is the fat ballet dancer of the motorcycle world. It has no business riding that well for being that heavy, but it does, and you are nothing but amazed when you ride it!
It can only be good.I had a 2014 LC ADv for 4 yrs.Its size never hinders one.Thks.
Really not sure how you do it, how your relaxed “chatty” reviews render such excellent, and useful, information. The only problem is that sometimes I’m so impressed with your mode of review that I don’t attend to the motorcycle, and I have to watch the thing all over again. Oh well, watching an excellent review twice is a lot better than being subjected to a crappy review once. So . . . ummmm, what was I thinking about . . . oh yeah, the GSA! Nice bike.
You're too kind Walter - thank you very much...
The more i watch your GS video's the more i want one even though I'm not really and adventure or touring rider. I'm already looking forward to the summer.
Me too!
Admirable, if only for reviewing in those conditions on a mastodon.
A stunner. For the first time, a GSA looks trim. It looks better than any other variant of GS this year.
Wow trim? Not sure I'd say that but take your point....
Lovely paint scheme. For me, GS TE remains the best of both worlds for touring and day to day use/ Sunday ride outs.
Yeah I tend to agree Faraz, I think the standard GS looks a bit sharper too without all that scaffolding....I've never wanted for more range (or weight!)...that said the GSA is a a lovely thing.
love it! I've just purchased a 2014 adventure, maybe one day will be able to get one of these!
Top drawer review as ever TMF! That paint would be my choice as well...lurve the gold wheels!
Good morning from Sweden. I purchased a 1250 gsa 2020 this past weekend and already passed 400km on it. I completely agree with your review and have nothing to complain about apart from the hefty price...
However, there is nothing about this bike that make me regret the purchase... not even the price... I'm 26 and I figured that if I don't buy my dream bike NOW, I might not buy one for maybe 20 years... this due to the probable economic burden of starting a family in the near future.
My advice to people contemplating whether or not to buy it, I'd say go for it! You might not live to see tomorrow so why wait for the future, if this is something you really dream about owning!!
Cheers and keep doing your great reviews!
Agreed and congratulations on the new bike (good choice!)....
For you people who are watching this and would like to buy a BMW r 1200 gs but cannot afford one, I would just like to tell you that I bought a 2010 year model recently. It is in very good shape and has very few miles on the meter and was less than half the price of a new one even if it came with panniers and a lot of extras. No, it doesn't have all the latest improvements and the engine isn't quite as powerful as the new ones but.... It is still an incredibly good and fun bike to ride and I can honestly say that I think the power in the engine is more than enough. I am absolutely pleased with it and would certainly recommend anyone who can't afford a new one to consider a second hand BMW GS!
Great review. This bike looks great, most importantly it has an option of a lower seat height! I’m 5”4 (164cm) I tried one today at my local dealer. I actually felt confident ! You mentioned it’s weight & once I stood the bike up and sat on it. I was very surprised as I didn’t feel the weight as much as I thought. I couldn’t test drive it as it was sold. I made up my mind to purchase . One I’m going to be happy . Thankyou I really enjoy & get a lot of from you. 👍😊🇦🇺
Cheers Nik - glad to hear that! Thanks....
Thanks for the impressive review. Picking my GSA HP up soon. Looking forward to riding a GSA again. Best position to be riding a motor, high & alert.
To go back to the TFT after being on the Nav, you don’t need to hold the ‘down’ button, just press it and you’re there back on the TFT. 👍
What a thing. I will not test ride any gs newer than my own until i want and can afford to make the switch. Lovely review,i will continue to live vicariously whilst loving my own old girl.
Yes good idea HH...that said, whenever I ride my "old" bike (still seems like new to me) I'm always fall back in love with it....great bikes whatever year you have...
Excellent review, really well put across. I've always thought the GS are to big to handle, especially off-road but you have made me really want to test ride one now 👍
Thank you - and yes, in reality they feel much lighter than their size and on paper weight figures would have you believe - brilliant machine....
Hahahaha just commented on your Instagram post about not being able to wait for a video and boom - video
Mr Flyer! What timing! The first container load arrives in Sydney on the 7the Dec, & shortly after the second load nearing the end of Dec. Testing the GS, GSA & The RT. All because of you Mr Flyer! 2 years in the making watching all your vids, sir you got me into these bikes. Should have a decision in the next week or so. Im as keen as mustard on throwing a leg over the GSA, cant wait. Brilliant review. I must say your best yet. Loving how your zooming in on the walk around. We can see the bits on the bike much better now that you come in close. It was the only gripe I had with all vloggers, the fact they didn't come in really close when showing stuff. Of course my favourite vlogger is doing it first. Good onya champ, luv ya work! Cheers groover ;-)
You're going to love it MG! Thanks for watching as ever.....
Dropped it at local military area while have some enduro fun, glad no one called^^
Coming out of the K 1600 B after 15 months, it is a featherweight. It is hugely improved over the 1200 GS and GSA that I owned both in the past. You always think it won't get any better, but somehow it does get better. You need to move to CA, so you can do these reviews under sunny skies 12 month around :).
Now wouldn’t that be nice!
You might overdose on all that GS, Mr Flyer!
Love my 2016GSA, but will upgrade to this 2019 model ASAP, due to all the improvements since mine. Brilliant review:-)
Cheers Kevin - appreciate the kind words.....
The front brakes are made by a American Company, Hayes. It on the inside of the calliper. They are know for Mountain Bike breaks and other equipment. FYI . Yet again a great Video.
Yes that's the folks - apparently they are owned by Brembo funnily enough.....
I am looking forward to your R1250rs review when it's released..... ;-)
Nice bike,just not a fan of the “beak” on the front,(purely subjective),and,of course,the price.Great review,thanks TMF!👍✌️
Just bought a 19 plate GSA with 8000 miles on…can’t wait to pick it up..👍
Congratulations!
@@TheMissendenFlyer cheers chief…it’s through watching your channel back in the early days that inspired me to get a bike, it was the 800GS then, but now finally I’m my dream bike…cheers.👍ps. Please stop buying new jackets, it’s getting expensive to keep up with you!!…🙈😳
Hehe - sorry Chris!
I have waited for the new R1250gs (still not arrived in Australia as I type this) as I’m in the market for a new bike.
I felt the R1200GS needed a bit more power/Torque - and perhaps this upgrade will be perfect for me. I don’t need loads of power but it felt wrong to buy the r1200gs when I knew the r1250 was just around the corner. Can’t wait to test ride this bike and the KTM 1290s before I decide. I’m leaning towards the GS prior to test ride.
The KTM's feel MUCH quicker...but ultimately in my opinion aren't as good all round as the GS (and certainly feel heavier)....
I think if I was to buy a bike for touring this would be my pick. She's a big old beast.
The color of the bike Really looks great on the GoPro. I love that darker blue. Great video, as always.
Cheers Roy...
IMO the new GSA looks better than the standard GS - that large screen and tank seem to restore the proportions of the bike as a whole. Maybe time to check out PCP options to avoid the big upfront price tag :-) ?
Looking forward to the 1250RT review - that's also looking better than previous generations - less of a boat and smarter colour schemes.
I"...MO the new GSA looks better than the standard GS - that large screen and tank seem to restore the proportions of the bike as a whole..."
EXACTLY.
You promised a GSA review in a comment only yesterday and here it is! Great review, but £21k is a lot of money. Having said that, you only live once and if I waited until I could buy it outright then I’d be needing stabilisers and zimmer frame options. I feel a visit to my BMW dealership may be on the horizon. 🙂
Go for it!
Great! Now I can blame you for encouraging me to sell the dogs and a kidney (who needs 2 anyway?) to fund it. 👍
Great video again, New Beemer looks awesome but think my lass will be cutting things off of me if say i want to change bikes again so the 2 month old RT will be staying.
Wise move me thinks....
Ordered, Exclusive due March, can’t wait, so much of an improvement on my 2015 standard GS...
Ooh congratulations! Exciting times eh?
TheMissendenFlyer Liked the Rallye, but the Exclusive looks much better than the photos, first GSA surprised how well it handled despite the extra weight, but then it’s a GS😆.
Hey Buddy, Been a while. Got struck down with a crappy illness and have recently started to learn to walk again!
Good to be back in the wild lol. What a bike, always loved these since watching your tour videos, nothing has change - still love these, more so now. Added to the 'When I win the lottery' list, added one for you too :D
All the best buddy
Chris
Thank you Chris - and best of luck with your recovery, sounds terrible.....
Sticking with my xr till the s1000xr shift cam comes out. Did 80k on my 1200gs cracking bike just too heavy and over engineered the xr hits all the right notes . Keep up the good work.
Beautiful bike mate putty about the weather
No worries about not being able to see the TFT screen in Blighty!
Indeed!
Great review, cannot wait until March ordered the very same bike but factory lowered version.
Congratulations!
Another informative review TMF. I can't really see the point of the Adventure over the standard GS unless you are crossing desserts and need the extra range. The sat nav 6 will direct you to the nearest fuel station of course, even on my comfy RT with a 25L tank it's rare I don't stop before the fuel runs out, approx 280 miles.
lovely video and tour. Thx mate and Greetings from Germany
Nice review. Looks like an improvement over my 2014 LC GSA. The only problem I have watching your videos is I want to go out and test ride them/spend money. Cheers!
Tell me about it!!
@@TheMissendenFlyer when are you going to be testing the R1250 RT? I'm interested in the bike for next time I change. Cheers marra!
Many thanks TMF for all the reviews! And the winner is... BMW R1250GS Adventure Exclusive. After many comparisons decided to go the GS way and I am very happy with the bike.
Told you they were good!
Glad to see they have got ride of the Panakee III tyres, some people loved them, I had no confidence at all and swapped them for Roadtec's after about 2500 miles.
So true...the orginal Anakees are horrible, no feel, lean over and then the bike felt like it was going to fall over. Changed for Michelin Pilot Roads, much better. For the money the bike should not ship with sh*t. Not much point in having cornering abs when the tyres don't inspire any confidence.
@Dave Henderson have you tried anything else. I feel Roadtec are better in wet and dry, defiantly quieter and far easier to flick from side to side. The only thing I can't compare is the mileage but in every other way , as long as you are not taking it off road on anyway more than the grass on the campsite, the roadtecs beats anakee iii hands down
Great vid as always, lovely bike but I’d change the hand guards
Its the colour I didn’t like but a beautiful bike
Crazy money.. I'll stick with my Crosstourer. Thanks for the review.
Crazy money to the uninitiated. Ride it and own it, and it's worth every penny :-)
I expect prices will fall significantly in a few years once all that new German Labour has learned the language well enough to start factory work
Couldn’t remember if you liked the TFT screen or not😂😂. Got mine ordered for February delivery. Gone for the grey one as personally I don’t like the bronze colour or the white frame, white hand guards and gold wheels of the other two versions.
Congrats!
Vid pretty grainy TMF, however still a great review!!! Ah MK2 version in glorious HD! Watching again!
Iain Ian that’s RUclips for ya. Takes a while after uploading to get to full quality...
Had great video quality not sure what you were watching
Hi TMF,
I see you have managed to put the video already online.
Awesome, thx for that!
And like always a great review!!! :-)
Cheers Berns....
Another great review, TMF! I like your style. I could watch your vids all day. Sometimes I do! 👍
Crikey!
Nice review. I'm riding a 2015 GSA. Probably not too much of change, except the engine. I plan on keeping my GSA, and riding it totally into the ground :-).
Good plan!
Nice review as always TMF. I had a little chuckle when you didn't mention if the switch gear was illuminated or not. Personally I am waiting for the RS with the shift cam and TFT. More my style of bike. Trouble is I don't like the new colours for it. The new HP colours on the GS look great. If only the new RS would get something a bit more sporty as well. Looking forward to your review of the RS as that new engine and lighter weight should take the current RS up a performance level which I feel it needs.
Well done TMF a great review 👍🏍One I have been waiting for thank you sir.
Glad to be of service! All the best - TMF
Absolutely great review I'm on a 2016 RT Iconic and I just may have change to this GSA be nice to see your review on the new RT just to help me make that discussion 👍 ride safe
It's in the can Martyn - stay tuned!
“Not crazy power like the multistrada...” -Um, the bmw has more torque. That is the entire point of this bike. Great review/experience as always though :)
It is a brilliant bike. Lovely to ride and look at as you turn your head around when walking away. Now for the premium position it holds how about an electric windscreen and heated seats already!
My father in law has the new old 1200 GS for 3 months, and he has problems when ridding with his wife with low speed stability. He had the 2008 Vstom 1000 and did not feel that. The back is about 5 centimetres higher than my new 3 day old Vstrom 1000 XT.
PS: I can't wait to see first ride reviews, including your own, start coming in for the new upcoming 2019 S1000RR! Very excited for that!
Yes that will be a good one - wonder if those horrible vibes have gone....
@Dave Henderson Well, I own a 2018 S1000R, and I must say I'm a little flummoxed by these comments about vibes on the S1000R or RR... This bike is extremely smooth, no vibes issues whatsoever! I wonder if it's something they fixed in the latest models, or if it's something that only some suffer from? This bike has the smoothest motorcycle motor I've ridden so far, and I've been riding for 30 years, and I've owned bikes like a GSX-R 600, which are pretty smooth 4-cyls. Maybe I just lucked out? (I've had other bikes in the past that had vibes so bad at certain rev ranges that my hands would tingle after a long ride... Usually on smaller motor singles or twins.)
Great review. Yup, I’m in that dilemma gs vs rt. think the rt will get the tft next year, but rode the gsa last week and it’s amazing.
There's always another newer, slightly better bike around the corner, I think just go with what you like the look of now...
If only i didn't enjoy eating and living indoors so much. She is a beauty!
Panzer Division Gross Missenden, that thing.😜
Such a M a j e s t i c B e a s t . Too rich for my blood tho. I can buy a 2019 Corolla for that dough.
Great work, Mr Flyer !
Tell me about ti! Good to hear from you again!
TMF - just remember to maybe cover the speedo before PC Plod pay you a visit..... Beautiful bike, and definitely on my radar for the future.
For now planning on 2nd hand Rallye 2016-2017 - for all the GS whiners get over it - go ride one and get a life.
TMF maybe consider getting yourself onto the ORS course in Wales - fantastic course I was given as a gift, and it has sparked my love affair with GS.
Cheers Brian - thanks for watching!
I much prefer the standard GS but would like the added weather protection (screen and winglets) and seat comfort the Adventure offers - Seat heating is certainly something that needs to be added to that BMW!!
I wouldn't say the Adventure is any more comfortable than the standard bike - weather protection a little better yes, but seat the same....
@@TheMissendenFlyer I thought the seat was wider, felt much more comfortable than my 2010 "Normal GS" for sure
Just ordered mine 👍👍 can't get rid of me triple black 1200gsa to many memories with that one so I have both 👍👍👍
My experience is that many of the ones who say don't like the mighty GS(A), never really experienced one and used them for serious touring, because if you did, you cannot deny the qualities of the GS. The reason is often emotional, like "oh, I don't have a big belly yet" or "you see too many of them" and in a way, they are right. I know lots of people who changed to the mighty KTM's or Duc's and they love that kind of power, but they all still love the GS and always compare to it. That says enough. True it's expensive, and there are other bikes that can offer equal fun for less money (lets face it, a Yamaha Tracer GT or Versys 1000 costs much less and these bike are lovely to carve some nice mountain roads), but the KTM's or Duc's pricing is no joke either. For me, the GS(A) is still the bike of choice, still going strong after so many years.
I 100% agree with every word you typed!
Guess we all like different bikes.
@@splodge57 I like almost all bikes, raised with Honda CB's and BMW flattwins, but for serious long distance travelling and touring, the GS(A) is hard to beat. And the current engine is so smooth, it's like BMW hired the Honda Boxer engineers from the Goldwing team, and asked them to chop off 4 cilinders...
Great, one of the best presentations on YT 👍
Thank you Achim - very kind of you to say so!
Thanks for the video sir. Nicely done, and hits the points I would like to hear about.
Love the Videos, Keep up the great work🔥
Sir, hope to be seeing you do a review on the new BMW F850GS Adventure soon after you got your hands on it. Definitely waiting for your review of that bike👍👍
Stay tuned!
I am seeing a change in your stable! Trade of the old for the new. Can’t wait to see that video because it’s coming
It's to much money just for the differences. Bet it's not far off £10k just to do the swap.
Chris Hart for the amount of miles on his GS, I’m sure it’s a equal trade off.
I agree with Chris - would cost me £10K to change to the new bike - the new ones are good, but not £10,000 better!
Happy New Year. In going to be getting either a GSA. 1200 Tiger XCA. KTM Super Adventure or maybe a Kawasaki Versys 1000 this year. I've watched as many reviews as I can find. I've tested the Triumph. Couldn't find anything I didn't like apart from the colour. Tested the 1200 GSA. Going to test the KTM & Versys soon. I'll test 1250GSA too. So after watching this it appears you can't get triple black in the new 1250?? That's a real kick in the jacobs as that's one of the awesome things i liked. Out of those bikes I mention in guessing you would say the GSA is the best all round bike?
You guess correct......
Brilliant incisive views as always, what a lovely bike. I watch a few BMW reviews, admittedly it was a bike I'd never thought of owning but that's totally changed, , they are meticulous in their engineering , normal for the German ethos. I would go for the RT I think, as I wouldn't use the off road mods etc. All the best mon ami
Thanks as ever Geoff - I'm hoping to ride the new RT some time next week so stick around and stay tuned for that review in due course!
@@TheMissendenFlyer yahoo I'll look forward to that. Just watched part 2 of your Teneriffe jaunt, looked a bit nippy up there 👍👍😎
Great info! Thanks for the videos....Brilliant!
Off to test a 2019 1250 GSA today. $30K in the US fully optioned, with panniers, but I’m already 90% I’ll bring it home based on what I’ve seen. Trading off my 13’ K 1600 GTL, so I hope the power of the GSA won’t disappoint.
I love for you to test out comms and what’s the best in your opinion. I have the BMW communication system at the moment, and it’s lacking in sound quality compared to the older wired systems (of which I love...no batteries to run flat).
Has the Kawasaki versys 1000 se 2019 good wind protection? Compared to the bmw gs 1250 or the GSA? What do you think?Nice video! Please try to review the Kawasaki versys 1000 se 2019 and give us your opinion
It’s not particularly easy for me to get hold of Kawasaki’s for review unfortunately....
When I first seen your BMW Gs I didn’t like it but I have to say it’s growing on me . The thing I’m still not sure is that pointy thing coming out from the headlight , does it have a practical purpose? If so what for? And if it doesn’t why didn’t they make it a nice shape?
I pre ordered an R1250R, test fitted a new GS, could barely tip toe on it, there is no chance I could own a GSA. It looks more badass though. ü
Love the review and would like to ask a few questions as your a big fan of the gs's, I have had lots of bikes in the past and Z550, CBR1000, Fazers triumph etc an RT1200 lovely bike for commuting and traded in for a Harley softail deluxe, as nice as the bike is ive come to realise its not for me, i think it gives other people more smiles than it does me, probably a senior moment on purchase, whilst not a Tourer and no longer a commuter I keep getting the urge to go back to BMW and although in my 60s do like a long trip now and again, the weight of bikes has never put me off and the RT was a breeze never feeling heavy whilst moving unlike the Harley that's just heavy everywhere you put it, I havent test driven any gs's as yet and been bitten by repair costs on second hand putting price to one side would you advise going for the 1250GS or the 1250GSA also taking into account im not a tourer as yet maybe ide be better going for the 1200GS, if i was to go second hand it would only be a one owner relatively low mileage and or recommendation, Sorry for the long post, value your thoughts
Depends on your budget - cost no issue R1250GSA - if you're on a budget get the second hand 1200 - range won't be an issue but it is lighter to manhandle when full...
Top Job TMF, what i don't like about the new GSs is the Alluminium side faring (side of the radiator) look very tacky, like a boy racer addon, and the lid of the little storage on top of the tank looks amazingly cheap, like the little faring on top of the instument, the one that used to be transparent, it's like BMW said this is where we will cut cost, and we will show to the world!
Yes I get what you mean Diego, I certainly prefer the quality feel of the previous gen GS side panels for sure.....it's almost like BMW changed them just to show they had made a change (not sure it's a change for the better - same with the standard GS side shrouds)....
The blue colour is lovely.