I’ve had the R1250GSA in triple black since April. Already put just under 3k miles on it and love it to bits.

Hi Dan, 1250 GSA rider here. 43,000 miles in 4 years, says it all. Thanks for posting 🤝

The simple answer is, "Yes, it is," it seems. There's several videos out there all asking the same question and all coming to the same conclusion. I've had 2x1200 gs and one 650 gs. All fantastic machines. Then I took a break and got a new Indian scout followed by a triumph T120 black. I have since moved to Turkey and come back to my senses and purchased a 1250 gs exclusive triple black. It has far more electronic wizardry than I would know what to do with, but what it does have, in spades, is the reason why people buy them. Because they are just, put simply, the best motorcycle ever made. I once had a car side swipe me, the bike wobbled a bit, but both car doors had huge dents in from where the engine bars and panniers pushed everything inboard. It's the bike that you entrust completely with your life every time you ride it.

I totalled my 2023 R 1250 R/S triple black and bought a new 2023 R 1250 GS the difference was incredible! I truly love the way the bike handles . The way you sit is on the bike super comfortable and the power is very well balanced throughout the entire range.

I've had 3 GS' and currently have the 1250 TE. Yes it is a brilliant all round bike, but it is a tad big and heavy to lump around. If you're not doing any 2 up riding/touring then just maybe the 1250 RS SE or 1250 R SE might be a better option as both are more road focused, more compact so easier to move around and do low speed/filtering on. They are also loads cheaper too. The SE models don't have keyless, TPMS or Heated grips like the GS TE but you can add them either individually for around £250 a go or as the "comfort" pack if yiu want them. Even then they're still several thousands cheaper than the GS TE, which is now pushing 20k. So especially if you're buying rather than PCPing give all 3 a go before you decide as many of the plus points the GS has the other 2 have too, both the R and RS have other advantages over the GS including slightly lower gearing making roll on roll off single car overtakes even easier and tele forks rather than telelever front suspension which although not quite so plush gives you more feel as to what the smaller 17" front wheel is doing. The GS is more comfortable, has better weather protection and more road presence though. All 3 are great bikes and being BMWs getting decent half day test rides to see which one is for you is very simple. What's not to like.

Totally agree. I have a 2021 Rallye TE and love it.

Hi Dan, I love my R1200GSA, does it all! Take care, Chris

I owed one of these a year ago in Paris and it is a great Swiss army knife. I did sell it because, for me, the main downside is the weight and height at a standstill or trying to push it around, although not impossible even for smaller riders. A bike doesn't have to weigh 250kg though. I loved it in dynamic mode, but less so in road and especially rain modes where it felt sqelchy. The sound is good if you gun it but a bit farty if not. It's a bit wide for very tight filtering but otherwise difficult to fault. I think though that the real fun is to be had in the mid-weight category or some of the new electric bikes (yes, unpopular but true - try for yourself!). Buy a GS if you do longer range trips and motorway riding, if not just for city riding and twisties, not my choice.

You now have another subscriber and you’re just up the road from me! Great review and this is on my wish list.

I have always said the start up of my 2023 gsa just makes me feel like it snaps to life every time i start it

Hi Dan, Great bike. Should have come to Italy with me to really test it

So agree. Love my 1200gs. Always have good service and support from BMW. Also was in Wales with BMW this year and it’s fantastic how it just so much a all rounder. Especially as I also was blasting around with a ex police officer doing my Rospa Gold.

I’m gonna go with…YES! Finally got one yesterday in Triple Black. GSA. Dropped it in the driveway last night! 😂😂. Got my drop out of the way on day ONE! Have 2-3 scratches on the crash bars. NO damage to the bike. It’s TALL! But I love it! Had a full tank of gas and was on the sidewalk and went to put my food down and I was on the edge of the sidewalk and my foot was over the road so I’d have had to have been 7’ tall to reach the ground. So now we have that out of the way…. Now to get some panniers for it! Got the GPS, 25mm bar risers and headlight guard. I probably have about 5K more in mods to do this next year! Thanks for the video!

Yes it is! ...Well the adventure version in my biased opinion anyway =). Picked ours up 2 months ago and have put 13 ,00 kms on it riding two up and it's been faultless!! Great review mate!

It’s so damn capable!. I went three times to the dealer to buy one, but each time I bought something else!. It just felt like everyone rides them in the UK!!, so there is no „stand out from the crowd” factor in owning one. I guess I am willing to accept a more flawed motorcycle for a little individuality!!, but I still admire this bike.

Just back from a trip from Inverness to Aarhus (Denmark) and back, did 3200 miles in all, rode through torrential rain & 28*C, never missed a beat, super comfy, and kept up with the loonies on the autobahn. Have Road 6 tyres fitted, super quiet, great in the wet. Keeper!

Fantastic review der Dan , very informative, I’m actually afraid to get a test ride on one cause like you said I’ll probably have to have one ☝️👌👌

Dan, great video. What gloves are you using?

Hi Dan I totally agree with you I had a 21 GSA sold it in May for an RT , Today I’ve just sold the RT & ordered another GSA 2023 they are a brilliant bike .the deal,atm on a new GS / GSA are fantastic as for the 1300 let them iron out any new bike nigglees and in two years go for one & apparently the GSA version won’t be out for another 12mounths

Thanks Dan.. I think you;ve swayed me.. I was looking at the KTM as well but every review I have seen just says the GS is the best of all worlds. As you've stated I think I'll wait till after the winter and then checkout what happens with the 1300 and also if the 1250's drop in price. Thanks as always for a great review and see ya round West Berkshire at some point 😀

I have the gsa rallye and i feel the same as you a bit of advice on qs 1st to second just roll off a tad to help it

Great vid Dan. I don’t have wedges of cash and was looking at a Cheaper Triumph 850 By the time I had added all of the gubbins, heated grips, centre stand, luggage, wheels etc, it was over 11.5k. For £9400 I picked up an R1200GS TE with full luggage and only 7K on the clock including 2 years BMW warranty. Amazing value and such a brilliant bike. I will certainly find a used 1250 in due course, but for now I love my GS more than any bike I have ever owned! Nearly 2 years in and absolutely zero problems. It’s a shame about getting labelled on it by some other bikers, but most bikers nod, if your are intentional about it, and I am.

Dan will you have any footage of your BMW off road training? Looks fantastic would love to hear more about it.

Love it ❤👍 Weird thing is that you you do exactly the same route to work as me except i go left after Blackbush 😂👍

I bought a '23 R1250GS this year even though I knew the R1300 will be unveiled later on this year. I figure the new R1300 will have some nifty new features which will be nice, but the new model will likely cost more, be heavier and have some bugs for the first few model years. Not to mention the 2023's should be the most reliable model year of this generation since they've had five years to workout the bugs. Plus, the aftermarket won't be as flushed out. I also managed to get some money off with decent financing rates on the outgoing model which sweetens it a little bit. My new GS rides great and I look forward to seeing how the GS line progresses later on this year.

Great video Dan, it would be great to see your comments and views on the KTM SAS for completeness

I've got an R1250 GSA and an S1000XR. The perfect garage for me.

Thank you.

Couldn’t agree more with your review, I’ve had my 1250GSA for nearly 2 years now & 12k miles. Does everything i want & agreed it’s better than the sum of its parts; spec alone it’s beaten by the other marques. It’s the easiest bike I’ve had for carting my surf sup/wing board kit around the south west uk, only thing I’d change it for is another GSA.

I had a 1200gsa and it was a great bike... however I rode a tracer 9 GT and instantly fell in love with it. Much easier to manoeuvre at slow speed and push it around the drive. The engine is amazing and I bought one as soon as I could. I miss the presence of the GSA and the low maintenance shaft drive but the tracer is such a good bike I can put up with that. Great video and a follow back would be awesome 👍

Great vlog 👍

Bought a new R1250GSA last season (can only ride for 6 months in Norway). Just hit 15.000 miles on it🏍️💨

I've tested one and I wholly agree, it's just superb, if I wanted to afford something that size and that cost, it'd be the BMW no questions, but I enjoy spannering on my own bike and car and with specialist tools needed and a bit complicated, idk if I'd really want to have that, specifically the shift cam tech in the heads, and tbh I dropped my fully loaded cb500x at a junction in Belgium doing zero mph and there is no way I was every going to pick that up, I started to think about unloading it before a kind Belgian man stopped and helped me pick it up 😅, it's just a bit heavy for my liking..... But.......an absolutely stunning machine, and so confidence inspiring

Yes it is the best . It’s the reigning king. SHAFT DRIVE is always the best over a chain . ALWAYS

Brilliant bikes, i have ridden decided the model i want and just have to wait for the used models to drop into my price range.

Great video! Yes, it is the best motorcycle in the world. I have owned 5 different manufactured motorcycles and my "22 gs is the best I have ever ridden. By far. I am very happy I bought the 2022 . I am not so sure about the new 1300gs. at least from the pictures I have seen. But we'll see. Best!

great take on this.. you just need to live near a BMW shop.. 20k is not bad for a do everything bike. How much is a hyundai i20 or equivalent now? right ? this is a special event.. good work Dan 👏👌also the new 1300 coming so you could probably do a deal. Have you driven at night without tinted visor? 🤣

Hey Dan, what gloves are you using in this review? They look cool. Cheers

Great for those of us who have given in and admit we're old now 😂

Long rides I wear padded cycling shorts,which prevent a tattered arse. I had a 2017 triple black. It was by far the most comfortable bike I've owned.

I agree with Adrian, I've had 6 GS's since 2006 but as I never go off road( intentionally) I've recently opted for a new RS1250SE Triple Black and absolutely love it. It seems smoother, quicker and handles better on the road.It must have different mapping!! but you do have all the tech the GS has. The only thing that is markedly different is the suspension, It is sportier and not such as plush as the GS. The weight is lower which is also an advantage if you are a bit shorter in the leg!!

I don't know if it's the best motorcycle in the world.....but it is for me. I've had three LCs since 2016 and simply cannot find anything that suits my riding better. I tour in Europe, leisure ride in the UK and will be going on an off-road course next month. They haven't been 100% reliable with the keyless ignition being replaced twice on the same bike but the BMW warranty was superb. My dealer experience has been superb, except for one occasion. Riding it always brings a smile to me face.

Willie Dan great vid

Is that an 2023 MY? any improvements on the 23? Gear shift assist smoother etc? thanks great review

I think so… never felt a better ride.

I only have two riding modes set on my GSA, Dynamic and Rain, simples.

Thanks Dan, food for thought. I’ve had a F800GS for a few years and keep thinking about a R1250GS but just concerned about it size and weight

Great video thanks Dan. Now the 1300 GS is out I hope you do a comparison although I am am on the verge of buying the 1250 before they have all gone. I have sat on a 1300 and it does feel more sports tourer than adventure bike but hopefullyy BMW will let you have a play soon, and I will be very interested to hear your thoughts. Cheers

I imagine the RT can filter better? Weight is lower. Also the bigger fairing is more practical for winter motorway riding.

I love these bikes, currently on my second - a March '23 R1250GSA TE. But no matter how much I love them I can't discount the fact that my last one (a '21 version of the same) was in for warranty work (passenger footpeg fell off + screen rattled) and the dealer tried to charge me for both. I know the dealer trying to charge me isn't a bike issue, but passenger footpeg falling off is both a passenger dieing and rider dieing with them issue. Seriously not impressed. Would I buy another? Yes of course. Would I personally PDI and routinely check the next, yes, I think we need to. Oh, and the SatNav is being replaced under warranty. I genuinely love these bikes, but I am far from getting the "Premium Brand Quality" that I would expect for 20k.

Nice video , can I ask you , what gloves are you wearing, I like them , I wouldn't mind getting a pair 😉

My plan is 100% to get either a discounted new 1250 GS, or a used one with low km's, after the 1300 comes out. Probably end of financial year next year (end of June in Australia). I'm sure the 1300 will be amazing, but I'm equally sure the 1250 will keep me entertained for the next 5-10 years.

Great review Dan, I've got the GSA version. Astonishing piece of kit, literally a do everything bike as you mention. BTW, what are the gloves you use in the video, they look really nice?

Thanks Dan. I've been seriously considering one of these as a replacement for my Tracer 900, and you've convinced me now that a road test is the next thing that I need to do. Which do you prefer, GS or GSA? Keep up the good work! 👍

The answer is, at this time, YES, best motorcycle on earth. only the lucky whove owened n ridden one knows what its like behind a GS handlebar. lets hope the new Gen is an improvement

Does it filter? Probably the only real achilles heel, due to the width (not sure about mirror height).

Hi Dan, which gloves are you wearing in this video?

A great bike. Prefer the standard over the the Adventure. It sits nicely alongside my triumph speed triple RS. Agree with all you say. Cheers. 😋

Well, it was a good bike, though I sold it within a month of buying it new..

I’m 6’4” and ride an XSR700. I look like I’m riding a 125cc, funny enough on my trip to Wales most riders that nodded back at me ware GS riders 😅

5'11" here and the buffeting with the standard screen is quite bad.

I've noticed the nod is something that is dying. I nod to everyone, including the 50cc scooter boys. But most of the nods I get back are from the Sunday only crew... Part of the reason I continued riding as a youth was because it felt like a brotherhood. I think that is being lost.

1000th like! ❤

Bought one😃

i’ve owned a gs for 6 years now two in that time and they are a good bike. I would say they are not remarkable at anything but good at a lot of things. I have had mine through europe on and off tar where I feel personally the bm does now show its age. Some of the competition is getting better. That being said I won’t be selling mine anytime soon and also I wouldn’t say I will own another . It’s a good reliable horse to have in the garage . Given the amount of people who use them for tar only I wouldn’t buy it for that there are many many road only options what are better . Dynamic pro with everything turned off is the only setting you need. The quickshifter is awful, The engine is ok I would say it’s quite flat when pushed but on the positive I find it well planted .

Yes because it rides like the best, it looks good and it's a fantastic all-round machine if you are tall enough to handle it (no problem here, I'm 1.86m. No because it's a pita to clean, its too expensive imho, everybody rides it, and mine burst in flames because the electrics caught fire ... (BTW my R1200RT had the (1800€) brake servo issue and my F650GS also had brake issues ... so BMW is off my list now because of unreliable)

I own a 1250 GSA, I’ve owned it from new, since the end of June 23 in fact, I’ve done 2600 miles up to now. I am writing this in the South West of France, I’ll be going home to the UK next week, so probably another 1000 miles to add! It’s my 5th GS in 20 years. (From 1100 to 1250). The point I want to make and knowing that the 1300GS is coming around the corner, is they are like Apple I Phones, each model improves year by year, but to be honest, they are all great for their time of manufacturer, however, if you look at the last 3 Apple changes they are minimal improvements, the new 1300 GS will really be like the new I phone 15, but is it really going to be that much better than 14? No doubt it will be slightly, you will still know it’s an I Phone when you use it, but if we can afford it, we’ll buy it, just because it’s the new model! The truth is, like Apple, the GS is iconic, no matter which model you own, they all feel, ride and sound the same, just the power varies, but the addiction to the ‘character’ of the bike continues and that is BMW’s secret!

I got a 2023 1250 GSA a few months ago. I went on my first trip, came back 7,600 miles and 23 days later. Love this bike.

I must be getting old: I didn't know there was an alternative to pulling in the clutch before changing gear. I wonder if it takes something away from the experience. I've ridden an automatic bike and absolutely hated it for taking away the feel and control of changing gears myself. I like ABS for those very occasional times when you get it wrong on a damp road, but anything else taking control away from me is the devil's work. But then again, I didn't like fairings at first, as I come from a generation who learned to body surf the wind to ride long distances on unfaired bikes. Even the Goldwing was unfaired when I started riding.

Imo.... Yes 😎

I have a baby gs and I’d be afraid to go off-road with something that heavy as the 1250gs.

Dan I’ve heard the factory has now stopped making the 1250GS and that was back in May, so don’t wait to long for your bargain hunting

At 5’ 6” and 65kg am I too short for a GS?

I found the gearbox very clunky and feel of suspension quite remote. Those pots hanging out the side just look odd. For me Tiger GT is a better bike.

The "GS" stands for "Gelände/Straße," which is German for "off-road/street." So this bike is specifically designed for both off-road and on-road use.

I can say, best touring bike, because this bike has to do nothing with offroad or enduro due its too much weight.. exceptional for those are skilled riders who can drive even a goldwing in the offroad.

I had exactly the same reaction to you. I had a terrible few trips out on my 2022 Speed Triple due to a number of factors, some of them putting doubts in my own head about my riding abilities after 30 years of bike riding. It got to the point where I was almost cancelling a long planned trip with friends. A friend of mine let me ride his GS back one day, after a particularly painful day of potholes and self doubt. It was amazing !!!! I was immediately and I mean immediately catapulted back into a headspace where the bike was doing literally everything I wanted it to ! I hired one for my trip to Germany, which cemented the deal and came back and part ex’d the Triumph for a 2023 1250 GS TE in Triple Black, same as this one you’re riding. I am reborn in terms of my confidence, my enjoyment and my overall well being !! Sounds mad but it’s true !!!! I am a massive convert to a bike I never thought I would own. It does everything and so well (other than the clunky quick shift from 1st to 2nd). Thoroughly agree with your review and would recommend a test ride for anyone who hasn’t considered before. Cheers

Okey heard you now, shift assist seems the same as before

Are those mirrors option 719 mirrors

😍

The thing with getting a gs just before the new one is the later models are usually well sorted most issues ironed out

Funny about the KTM and other adventure bike riders not giving you the nod or wave, here in the US it's HD s you don't wave or nod to a Harley rider unless yr on a Harley also. Might even get the finger! Pretty silly 😂

Motori minarelli 125/150 engine's decendant are the best

And any word about keeping cost ?? maintenance.....

I know looks are subjective but I’m afraid this bike is just not good looking, it’s also really common… having toured Europe extensively they are absolutely everywhere, which of course is probably testament to how good they are but for me I want something a bit more unique. It’s a two wheeled SUV, which is just not cool….

I think the answer is yes. It is the best motorcycle in the world. I have never ridden one but ever journo that ever rides one claims it’s the best ever.

Until a month ago I'd say my 2021 gsa was the best bike on the planet, now I have the S1000XR M Sport and I'd not go back to a gsa (yet, after all theres a new version coming soon). The S1000XR (for me) is much more fun.

Had three, great bikes but I’d have the RS if I had another boxer, the telelever has no feel and unless you do a lot of touring with the good lady why would you want those ugly boxes. Got sick of the weight with luggage and the image, sorry but if they are so good why do most owners spend a fortune at Nippy Norman’s on extras to make the bike right for an adventure and then sit outside a cafe😉🤨

As a light guy with very short legs, this BM is not the best bike in the world for me. I’ll stick with my MT 03. Great vid though.

As a non GS fanboy the argument for a GS would probably hold more weight if it wasn’t a freebie .

You like it better than your sv650?

My last bike was a 2022 Multistrada V4s, prior to that i've had 5 big GS's, last one being a 1250 GSA. I love the GS, but here is the short answer to what BMW must improve for the upcoming 1300 GS: Suspension. In particular, rebound damping is too soft / loose. Yes, it becomes a little better in Dynamic mode, but in general it is too soft / bouncy. Damping adjustment itself is also not on pair with newer bikes like the Multi. There are only two settings to choose from, Road and Dynamic. The Multi has 5 different settings, from very soft to very hard, and front / rear settings are separately adjustable. Also, preload adjustment on the Multi can be set to Auto, or you can manually choose between 24 different levels. The GS only has Auto, Minimum and Maximum. The wide variety of settings gives the Multistrada fantastic abilities, and its a bike that can be fully customized to any needs. Otherwise, i am convinced the new GS will have all the new tech features like adaptive cruise etc, so that is not an issue. A smoother quickshifter would also be nice. As long as they keep the boxer, Telelever suspension, shafdrive and uppens the game in the suspension department, success is guaranteed. I will be waiting...

I have had 3 new GS/A's over the years , great touring ability , with off road option if needed . I doubt very much that the average owner of one of these would be racing it through the bush on one of them , purely due to the size , and weight of them , let alone what damage and cost you would be up for if you did come off it . After the last one i owned ( GS/A ) multiple issues , and with other model BMW issues i owned , sure they were rectified for now at a cost , high servicing costs if you have to pay someone to do it , or want to keep your log books stamped and up to date by a mechanic ? i have come to the conclusion that BMW stands for - B ring M y W allet All my BMW 's are sold now , and i have a SUZUKI VSTROM 650 , i have just as much fun on that , at a 3 rd of the price .

P.s. typo in the title if you want to edit that 😊

Hmmm, I don’t get it. Elephantitius for sure. Low 40mpg. I have an 2012 RT and an Africa Twin DCT. Both get 52mpg. The RT is rock stable and comfortable over 100mph. Not so with my friend’s 1200 GS.

Well, I now own a GSA Rallye. It is the best bike in the world. If you had a Venn diagram, no bike crosses over as well, in as many categories as this. So bloody happy. It took three bikes in 8 months, lol.

Mate...I own one it's really not that good you are just gushing. The kTM kills it on performance onroad offroad and sportiness, offroad Where the BM shines is comfort and resale value. On another note.... it is not the low cylinders that make it turntable.... it's the longitudinal crankshaft. (Think bicycle spinning wheel that wants to stay up in one plane when it's spinning)

motojitsu said the same thing then one year later he ended up trading it for a mt09 because in his words, the gs is very good at everything to the point where its boring and its not amazing at any one single thing

At that price it would have to be the best motorcycle.

If only I had the money to spend on a ego bike.... imagine the look on my friends faces as I turned up at Starbucks or the local 'Biker' cafe...if they squinted a bit they might even mistake ne for Ewen McGregor or Charlie Boorman!😅