R1250GS What happened after 20,000 km? | LONG TERM Review after 1 year with the BMW 2019

Рет қаралды 40,338

Күн бұрын

I have had my R1250GS now for 1 year now and so here it is! My long-term review. I haven't actually been able to find many of these on the 2019 GS. Most people say that have a Long Term Review, but they only rode it for 48 hours or 1 week.
This is my Every Day Rider. I ride Rain or Shine. These are my thoughts on the big boy after many trips and a lot of memories. I hope you enjoy!
Ride safe guys and gals and I will see you on the pavement.
USA Links to upgrades
Givi quick release racks - www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/g...
Denali D4's - www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/d...
Cansmart Controller - www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/d...
GoPro Motorcycle mount - www.amazon.com/RUIGPRO-360°Mo...
Quadlock USA - www.quadlockcase.com/collecti...
Puig Touring screen - www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/p...
Puig Supports - www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/p...
Lomo Soft Motorcycle Bags - www.lomo.co.uk/products/motor...
Motea headlight guard - www.motea.com/en/headlight-gr...
EURO:
Givi pannier racks quick release - www.xlmoto.eu/product/givi-sp...
QuadLock - www.quadlockcase.eu/collectio...
QuadLock VIbration Dampener - www.quadlockcase.eu/products/...
Lomo Soft Motorcycle Bags - www.lomo.co.uk/products/motor...
Motea Crash guards - www.motea.com/pt/set-crash-ba...
ABIKETHING headlight protector - www.abikething.com/product/am...
Puig Tourning screen - www.motea.com/pt/para-brisas-...
Puig Supports -www.tradeinn.com/motardinn/pt...
Motea headlight guard - www.motea.com/en/headlight-gr...
MOTO VLOGGING GEAR:
Helmet (Scorpion EXO R1 AIR Carbon): bit.ly/EXOR1air
Lav Mic: amzn.to/3KyJXEm
Camera (GoPro Hero 10): bit.ly/3vc6ujN
Camera 2 (GoPro 7): amzn.to/3LTSsKp
GoPro Underwater case: amzn.to/366EZjq
GoPro Helmet mount: amzn.to/3O0qej3
GoPro Media Mod: bit.ly/3rhbVNz
GoPro Motorcycle bar mount: amzn.to/3O5xave
Sony a6400: www.amazon.com/Sony-Mirrorles
My RIDING Gear:
Denali D4: www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/d...
Revit Sand3 Jacket: bit.ly/REVITjacket
Revit Sand3 Pants: bit.ly/3LToBBY
Revit Striker 3 Gloves: bit.ly/3jtEFyi
Revit Delta H2O Shoes: bit.ly/3Jwo3QI
Helmet (Scorpion EXO R1 AIR Carbon): bit.ly/EXOR1air
Balaclava Tucano: bit.ly/3LQ0tA0
Thermal Shirt Tucano Urbano: bit.ly/3E4QZ1u
Quadlock: bit.ly/3xqMNHI
QuadLock Vibration dampener: bit.ly/3KDJWzi
timestamp:
00:00 - Intro
00:51 - What I'll talk about
01:02 - Issues I've had with the R1250GS
02:51 - Costs of Ownership
03:35 - Mods
04:53 - Which year GS should you buy?
05:51 - Reliability
08:17 - BMW GS's are everywhere!
09:25 - R1250GS as an Everyday Rider
09:58 - Lane splitting on the GS
10:10 - Weight
10:52 - Final Thoughts

Пікірлер: 195

@billreynolds2221 Жыл бұрын

I bought my 2022 gs as an experiment purely to see if it would help keep me in the saddle for a few more years. At 66 years of age that is a huge consideration when buying a new motorcycle. I’m happy to say that the gs was the right choice. The time and distance I ride today is close to what I was doing 20 years ago. Thank you BMW for such an amazing bike.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Wow! So this bike literally extended your riding career! What a great story. Thank you for sharing that with us. Bravo my friend! Ride on! Send me a picture and I’ll post it to my insta page if you on the bike. @americanabroadofficial

@mikemerrill175 Жыл бұрын

I’m 72 and recently rode a 676 mile day………long side story

@johnasbury9915 Жыл бұрын

Just turned 61 and got my latest GS about a couple of months ago.. what a ride.

@timwilson8553 11 ай бұрын

Same as you had mine just 2 yrs. Exhaust valve has stuck on several occasions. Drive mod done they said shaft has seized at rear so replace the hub also. Should have done 25k miles but only 16 as insurance has it 7 months. And ride all year like yourself and my heated seat is heaven in winter😂

@feloniousmonk3049 5 ай бұрын

Add me to the list.... 65 years old, and the riding comfort on my 2023 GS Trophy is nothing short of amazing! BMW is very generous with their test ride program... and one test ride was all it took to sell me on the bike. I think my Sport Glide might be going up for sale.

@2012pwagon 11 ай бұрын

Being a bmw car mechanic for 13 years I can tell you nothing drives like them. Their motorcycles are no exception. The luxury that is bmw Motorrad is top tier. A major fact of the gs often overlooked is it is a dual sport motorcycle that is an absolute beauty on the street and can double up and take you to some of the most remote iconic scenery in the world…

@jeffmccollum3769 11 ай бұрын

Most of their cars suck especially the great foreign German SUV's Built in SOUTH CAROLINA. What a joke. The only Motorcycle that they have which is great is the R 1250 GS Adventure. Ducati runs circles around the rest of the BMW Fleet.

@judod97 10 ай бұрын

what do you mean GS is often overlooked?it is the most sought after adv bike

@ironhorsegladiator5034 Жыл бұрын

The GSAs are so comfortable that every time I have a passenger onboard and going faster than traffic for hours after hours, they either fall asleep or I don't even feel that I have a passenger on my bike, I am sure the Gold Wing feels the same, but try taking a Gold Wing on a fire road. Bottom line, the GSA is worth the money only if you know how to ride a very tall and heavy bike safely and if you don't mind paying a price of a car for a two wheeled hobby bike. Enjoy your rides... Regardless of what brand of two wheels you enjoy riding.

@JeiBeeBee 9 ай бұрын

Honda VFR800X Crossrunner, 32.000 km, zero issues. 😍👍

@davereinhart9933 Жыл бұрын

I love your enthusiasm for the 1250! I bought one and absolutely agree. The quality suspension, engine and ride quality cannot be beat.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Thank you Dave. Yeah it’s honestly a dream come true for me. So great that you love it also. Unfortunately some only use it for Starbucks runs lol

@nispuk123 11 ай бұрын

Agree! Own my 5. GS since March. Very happy☺️

@miriamros1988 11 ай бұрын

So cool to see your progression from bikes and in editing.

@johnasbury9915 Жыл бұрын

I had a 2010 R1200GS several years ago and just got a 2018 R1200GSA a few months ago, such a comfortable bike. I look forward to many, many miles on her in the years to come. Love these bikes. So comfortable and fun to ride.

@DEA-vy4bh 11 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience. It is a honest one without the clickbait. Well said hands down! I’m looking forward to having one somewhere in the near future. Currently riding a 2011 K1300s. Great bike also🤓

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Thanks my friend. Sometimes gotta play the clickbait game a bit, but I try to keep away from it. Iv never ridden the k1300 but I have heard good things.

@grhmnz4648 Жыл бұрын

Good video ,that gives me the chance to comment on some GS issues,as an owner of a 2013 LC .The sticking exhaust valve is a common issue . The fix done to my bike is..to wire the valve in the open position..remove the servo motor and all cables..and plug in a Servo Buddy or Healtech electronic unit to the servo plug , which stops fault codes being set . You will get slightly more noise in the lower rev range. My drive shaft was replaced two weeks ago ,as my bike had reached the automatic replacement mileage set out in the BMW bulletin .

@jvl4832 10 ай бұрын

Also an American abroad in Germany, I live approximately 2 kilometers from the factory where the GS is produced. Naturally, I love my GS , even though they , as you said , they are so prevalent . There must be a reason for it. It is so confidence inspiring and has a presence on the road. I did have some software issues, but that has been cleared up. Thanks for an honest , from the heart look at the GS.

@AmericanAbroad1 9 ай бұрын

Hey another American abroad! What took you to Germany? Yeah seriously so confidence inspiring. I love the GS

@jvl4832 9 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 LOVE!

@allanhughes7859 Жыл бұрын

I am 70 years young Bought the 1200 version because I am not wealthy . Did not like twins always ridden 4's Much smoother as I thought .. Anyway found this twin to be very smooth also found the balance to be great for such a heavy bike "low down engine" Only negative is first and second gears very clunky up and down all other gears just fine ????? Hard to move on gravel but surprisingly easy to pick up if it goes over .. Probably the best bike ever for touring and off road which I can not comment on as I just dont go there !!! So you will not go far wrong getting one what ever age what ever sex and for what ever you wish to do as they also perform on the track TRUST ME THEY DO !

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Love this man! Such an inspiration to see at 70 your still riding. I wanna be like you when I grow up!

@Scootir185 Жыл бұрын

I recently moved to Mexico and BMW is the only bike dealer that sells anything over 150cc's in my area. I reluctantly bought my GSA thinking I was overpaying for a somewhat boring ride. Now a few months down the line I've come to really love it. It's a ride that's more than the sum of its parts somehow. Not the fastest, not perfect off road but it does everything really really well. And bullet proof reliablity so far. Just a super solid bike that I can have fun on no matter what. Nice review! Really enjoying your channel. Keep up the good work!

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for the kind words. It’s fun making the content and connecting with you guys. I agree. It really does everything really well. It’s a great touring bike that still is sporty enough to give me that rush.

@jameshicks8742 7 ай бұрын

I own a 2015GS and we are finally coming out of summer here in Phoenix which is just simply awful to ride in down here. You made me want to go jump on the bike and go for a ride tonight. Excellent review.

@AmericanAbroad1 7 ай бұрын

Thank you for think kind word. Man Texas was the same. Summers sucked for riding most days. Enjoy those evenings

@toqir-dar 10 ай бұрын

I have been riding a honda ps 125 scooter for a decade. Then I got my first big bike - the gsa 1250 lowered version at 55 years of age. just love this bike. comfort is amazing and i'm still learning to ride it now 16 months later.

@AmericanAbroad1 9 ай бұрын

Enjoy the ride man.

@FlashFlash-tb6vf Жыл бұрын

Great review! They replaced the drive shaft on my 2022 also. 6,000 miles at the time. Ditto on maintenance cost; it’s expensive. That said; bike is absolutely fantastic. You can’t really appreciate the R 1250 GS until you’ve had it for at least 6 months. It’s more fun than my new car.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

I totally agree. Living with it and really using it everyday and doing longer trips gives you a much better view of how good it actually is

@robb8773 Жыл бұрын

I have 21,000 miles on my 2019 GS Exclusive and have had no problems. There were two recalls; the rear-end vent (drive shaft didn't have to be replace) and front brake caliper replacement with Brembo's. Yes, the maintenance cost is higher than most other bikes but I think its worth it for owning such an amazing machine.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Completely agree

@joost1183 10 ай бұрын

Also the GS is an easy bike to work on yourself.

@chrisvodka2412 Жыл бұрын

I bought a 2022 R1250GSA recently. Had a R1200RS before but the GSA is the best for me. I love it.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

It’s really an incredible machine

@Pyrrho_ 11 ай бұрын

I have a R1250RS... Same engine, very similar frame, upside down front forks, with a full fairing in a sport touring trim. Hell yes this can perform like a sport bike. Monster torque and good HP allow this to tear things up when pushed.

@lyndonp3391 11 ай бұрын

Looked at the Gs's but went with the Super Tenere...basically cos it was more affordable and still plenty enough motorcycle for me!. Probably not as good as the all singing all dancing gs. Two years or more gone by...no issues and still very happy with it...well maybe not pushing it around the garage!. Greetings from a sunny Algarve. 🏖👍🏻

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah man I love the ST also. Such a great bike.

@shaggybx 11 ай бұрын

I have a 2020 GS ,did a 5000 mile ride no problem, just got the extended warranty, love the bike,16000 miles no problems Ducati is way more expensive ,ride safe thanks for the video

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the comment! Yeah man they ride so beautifully. I just got back from a morning ride now through the hill country. Beautiful ride

@too2mkoo2 Жыл бұрын

I've been mtesting yesterday and I am beginer riderjust 1 year my licence and I can say it is so easy to ride and balancethe power is not scary,very nice motor,the front windsreen not cover good less then my Honda NC750 and indicator too far to reach for me seat very comfortable ,general very nice motor for long distances, .

@MiamiJato Жыл бұрын

Great video waiting on the 1300

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Same here! I hope it’s an improvement and I’m hoping they keep the tele-lever

@jbean530 11 ай бұрын

I was concerned about filtering with those bags and the seat height. Excellent review. I watched the video on the assembly and manufacture at the BMW plant. It’s very high tech and precise. Recommend.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah they are excellent. I completely agree Some people say they don’t provide THAT much extra security, but I disagree. They make me confident enough to leave fear in it while I go eat somewhere or go camping. Thanks for your kind words.

@erocnw1341 2 ай бұрын

Glad to hear the positive review. I just bought a 2019 GS. I'm excited to ride it but a little nervous that the bike is no longer covered by a warranty.

@AmericanAbroad1 2 ай бұрын

You will be fine. I do multi day trips frequently and it’s my everyday driver. Keep it on a battery tender. Or the battery will give you issues

@Crsf84 Жыл бұрын

Having spent years on sports bikes and super nakeds (btw while questioning gs owners thought process assuming I knew better) anyway fast forward I bought one and love it, So much so I last year bought the 2022 1250 and still love it. For me the same as yourself I got fed up being blown around on light bikes so this was a plus…

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

RIGHT?! I was so tired of going out with wind and coming home kissing the ground and thanking God that I survived… ok a bit over the top… but seriously.

@hrvojecolic8274 11 ай бұрын

"Eats any kinda terrain"...a bold statement.

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

Hi, Great Video about the GS. I ride a 2006 R1200GS and Love it. I have been Riding Bikes for 50Yrs and this is the best Bike I have ever Ridden. The Maintenance is so easy, I do it all myself. I don’t have the Electronics of the newer Bikes, but I like that. I just get on and Ride. I’m a Disabled Veteran so I can’t afford another Bike. I’m really happy that I ended up with this one. It Purrs like a Kitten and runs like a Scalded Cat when I need it to. Anyway,?Thanks for the Video. Subscribed. 👍👍

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Thanks so much man! Yeah it’s such a great bike and any year of the GS makes a great companion. Welcome to the fam!

@MultiCutaway 10 ай бұрын

Must agree with Bill. I have a flawless 2011 1200GS(89 000KM), a 2015 E89 Z4 and a 2012 F30 320i. I am 62yo and the best ride is still the GS! 👍💌🇿🇦

@ADVdiary Жыл бұрын

I bought my r1250gs in 2019 and since then its my main bike, very smooth and comfy for long distances and little of ofroad capability. But for extreme offroad i use the ktrm 890 adventure R.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Yes I’d love to try out the 890.

@neilhutton1528 Жыл бұрын

Nice review. I have had 2 GS1200 and now have the GSA1250. You are absolutely right. We all have different tastes but if you fancy a GS/GSA then go for it, you will not be disappointed. Like you my GSA is my daily and my holiday toy. I live on a very small island just north of France and jump on the ferry and tour the EU whenever I can. Whilst I like the KTM's and Ducati's and I'm sure they are great too, I love my GS. I respect the way you do not slag off other peoples choices but obviously the GS/GSA here the best 😛🤪

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Haha yes! Everyone has their tastes. Thanks so much for your kind words. Love this community. You guys drive me to make better content. Yeah man, I am in love with this bike for sure.

@AleksandrDiesel54 Жыл бұрын

Awesome bike🥇🚀🚀🚀👍🙌

@goggen39 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for the video. Realy loved when you talk about McGregore and Boreman. Same for me. Made me realy think about getting one.....🙂so....🤞

@AmericanAbroad1 4 ай бұрын

Thanks man! Yeah that series is so beautiful. Inspired me to do long distance moto trips. Good luck on your journey! Let me know what you end up with

@jimallenjjbsservicesltd2641 Жыл бұрын

Now on my fifth GS, 3 GSA's and two GS's. Havent found another bike thats ticks so many boxes. Its just a fantastic all rounder.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

I completely agree. It just does so many things so well.

@keithdixon3896 Ай бұрын

I just done 18000kms on a Vstrom650.... totally comfortable, twice as reliable as a BMW, more economical and half the price....much better deal unless you just want to boost your ego and impress your friends at the bike meets

@AmericanAbroad1 Ай бұрын

That Vstrom doesn’t get as much credit as it should. The GS has been a dream bike for me from when I was a kid. For me I think the major selling point was the comfort it provides. Coming from a Harley it’s a huge leap in comfort. I also think it looks and preforms so well with how it holds that weight down low. It’s definitely a unique riding experience. ST has a similar low down feel, but not the grunt of the GS. ….or maybe as you say I am blinded by all consuming ego from a young age. lol Ride safe and thanks for being a part of the community!

@petermcgarva7207 27 күн бұрын

V Strom, a piece of junk. It lasts because it’s a gutless POS.

@philipmillen4271 Жыл бұрын

The future for dealers that overcharge will soon come to an end ,the cost of living will end this overpricing culture

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Man I hope so

@tomaskral4685 11 ай бұрын

Good comment about the weight and crosswinds. I recently moved to Croatia. When coming down from the mountains towards the seaside there is always a strong wind( even for a car). The heaviness of the bike is a plus. I dont have a GS though( just cant bring myself to have the same bike 8 out of 10 motorcyclist have😄) but a '22 R1250R..similar thing.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah, in Europe they are all over. In the US you see the GS far less. But everybody rides them because they are great bikes. I also find the África Twin a good looking bike, but doesn’t have everything the GS has.

@tomaskral4685 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 agreed! I considered the Africa Twin for a few minutes, sat on one, and changed my mind. Bought a 950 Ducati Multistrada instead. Big mistake! Sounded like a bag full of rusty nails, no low down torque, uncomfortable for the rider, great for a passenger. Sold it back to the dealer. Lost $ on it but good riddance. Bought the BMW R and never looked back. What a bike! Brought back my riding pleasure! ( I also have a 2020 Moto Guzzi 750. Great little charismatic bike.). But the R and the torque! Outstanding!

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

@@tomaskral4685 Yeah the BMW R is an incredible bike. I also didn’t like the feel of the AT sitting on it. Seat felt very hard and had some weird lines. I Love the Super Tenere 1200, but its not a GS. Still has a great low down feel though. I really want to try the 1290Super Adventure.

@tomaskral4685 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 Yes, I'd love to try the KTM, but I couldn't get over its looks. That headlight...Also there are reliability issue reports? But it's supposed to be a lot fun. At the time I was buying the latest bike( and a car) in the Czech Republic there was a considerable shortage. Looks it's better now, but the more exciting models are being sold out. Do you do a lot of off-road? I tend to stick with road models, even though an adventure bike makes a lot more sense. I don't think I'll be looking for another bike in a foreseeable future. The R is that good. ( True, when I was criss-crossing half a Europe last year, there were times I wished it had a windshield 😄). I tried many bikes and decided to stick with the low to middle torque models with a hint of charisma. Suits the best to my style. That leaves one contender I might consider in future - the Moto Guzzi V100 Mondello .There is some magic in those traditional opposed twin engines..

@clunkygearbox Жыл бұрын

Interesting vid, thanks. I had a Tiger 800 previously as well and instead of paying for a very expensive major service, I part exchanged it for a 2006 1200GS with 36000 miles on the clock. No ABS. Just to see what all the fuss was about. Well 10 months later I have to say it is a very different bike from the Tiger. Heavy I admit but as you say much more stable with a low centre of gravity. Great for two up touring with luggage as well, more than enough power for me, the torque is impressive to the point of almost not having to use the brakes on twisty roads, great fun. But, there is always a but.... apart from the alternator belt shredding itself, I think the main gripe for me is the incredibly clunky gearbox! I understand from other forums this is normal, but it takes a little getting used to. The other thing is the road noise funnelled up through the cockpit. Sounds like I have a demented coffee grinder between my legs! Smooth paved roads are quiet but any surface with grippy coatings makes me thankful for the ear plugs! Anyone else have this issue? It also suffers from a battery drain, so I use a solar powered charger to keep it topped up and I carry a battery pack to jump start it if I am travelling away. I agree it is pretty easy to maintain and it's great to ride in all weathers. I can particularly recommend handlebar muffs during winter, which let you wear summers gloves. Will I keep it? Not sure yet, kind of depends of the cost of the insurance renewal...but it is one hell of a machine!!

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

That’s awesome to hear. Yeah some of that is just a bike that’s 17 years old. The oldest GS I rode was a 2009 and I’ll just say the GS has come a long way in that time. Enjoy that bike man! It’s a great machine

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

I must have been lucky. I Ride 2006 R1200GS and my Gearbox is Buttery Smooth 12:24 to the point where there is no noise when Switching Gears. Also, my ABS works perfect. I can turn it On and Off for the Road or Trails.

@clunkygearbox 11 ай бұрын

Indeed, you posses a rarity I think! Mine can decide to be quite smooth one minute and the next resemble a tractor. I can live with it however, it does not have ABS either. Do you suffer from any road noise?

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

@@clunkygearbox Not really. It may be the Type Tires you have on the Bike. I’m Riding 80/20 Tires. 80% Street Biased and 20% off road. If you’re riding a more off Road Tire, it’s going to be a lot noisier.

@antoniorocha773 5 ай бұрын

Hello American, I agree that everything we like for ourselves always has more weight in the decision. I have been a BMW lover since 1989 and the career I followed was electromechanical That's why I'm fully aware that nothing is infallible. I think the equation is very complex, our heart's pleasure, monetary resources, our purpose in relation to what we want from the motorcycle weighs in the way we evaluate a product like this one that speaks When we talk about a product that costs almost 30.000€, extra full, Either we are millionaires and it becomes insignificant or it becomes significant because everything at BMW has high values, That's why there are many people angry with BMW because they must think that they just buy it and never need to do anything again and this is where the first mistake begins. But if we are to evaluate the bike impartially, it has strong points and less strong points, just like the others, for me it will continue to be a brand of excellence. PS: be careful with the drive shaft. One of the safety points that BMW has ignored since 2013, unless I'm mistaken, it has now rectified with a hole to prevent moisture from accumulating. A hug from a two-wheel lover

@AmericanAbroad1 5 ай бұрын

Yeah totally. Gotta service that drive shaft regularly to keep it good

@inthewind773 Жыл бұрын

Good review fellow American abroad. I've got an 2015 R1200R and can confirm that the transmission on my 2018 R1200GSA is much smoother, the 2017.5 update makes a big difference. I actually prefer the quickshifter feel on the R1200R though, it has a more positive "thunk" on the up and down shifts. Snagging neutral with my fully loaded GSA before leaning into a steep downhill hairpin in the alps can definitely raise the blood pressure.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

100% I don’t hit neutral when quickshifting but there are def better bikes out there with QS. But I still love the GS

@MWS1960 11 ай бұрын

I ride a R1200 RT and in crosswinds it’s take of lot of leaning into the wind. I have a few RT’s in my life and I’m just wondering if maybe the GS or GSA would be better in crosswinds here where I live in Arizona. Great video and great bike…….ride safe!

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Thanks heaps man. Yeah I love the GS. I think any bike in heavy crosswinds you will have some issues. Of course on the GS you have some places for wind to get through. On the RT you are more of a sailboat catching all the wind

@navidgolesorkh5848 20 күн бұрын

Very honest 🤝

@jude.v25 Жыл бұрын

I rode today with a friend on his 09. We had a blast. I love my 1200 GS. Would love to have a 1250 but does everything I want so I simply can't justify the cost difference. Maybe the 1300 might entice me. We'll see.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Yeah let’s see. I hear they are getting rid of the tele-lever in the front. That’s one thing I love a ton. Zero dove in the front. That may kill the 1300 for me

@silamarie4406 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 Looking at the latest spy pictures of the 1300, it seems that it still has the tele lever suspension.

@Yo-Ken Жыл бұрын

It is an amazing machine, doing so many things so well and very reliable. For me, its very inexpensive to maintain as I do all my own service. You point out a lot of misconceptions about the GS along with what to expect when owning one. Only issue for me with the GS... I want more power:)

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Do you plan on replacing the GS?

@Yo-Ken Жыл бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 Yes... with the 1300:)

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Yeah excited for the update. If you ever want to do some co-lab like a podcast let me know!

@Yo-Ken Жыл бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 Sure man... I'm in, just let me know.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

@@Yo-Ken Do you have an instagram where we can chat back and forth abit faster? Mine is @AmericanAbroadofficial

@vintageprinciples 11 ай бұрын

Great review thoughts! I’m in my 30s and have a 16’ 1200GS with ESA taken out and upgraded to Ohlins and love it. I came from the sport bike world and this thing turns with the best of them. No it doesn’t tear your face off with acceleration but still does 0-60 under 4 seconds and I have kids now so… 😉. For every day real riding this bike is shockingly good. I rode with a few guys that have them and I was like no way I’d get that!! Well… here we are. 2 guys I ride with have the newer 1250 and I’ve jumped back and forth with my 1200 and found power to be 95% as much as theirs? Almost no difference in my opinion? New ones shift much smoother but I dunno, I like the clunks. More character. Lol. Might be the best years for GS (13-18’) as they are a nice mix of tech and raw motorbike. I found the newer ones almost computer game like/ too good? But whatever they’re insanely good bikes. Thanks!

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah sometimes seems like to much tech, but now I love it all. It gives me the ride of a lifetime every time I take it out. Yeah, actually in another review I said the same thing. I love the hard shift, it feels substantial. Great to hear other people loving this bike

@BanjoToronto 11 ай бұрын

Interesting to hear that the Tiger 800 was killing your wrists. I have the Tiger 900 and it’s destroying my clutch wrist. Was thinking I am just not cut out for wider Adventure Bars. Would appreciate hearing what makes it different wrist wise on the GS - my dream bike too. Love your content btw.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yes very interesting. I think the throttle is lighter on the GS and also on longer rides cruise control is a game changer. I may be speaking out of ignorance here, but does the 900 have quick shifter?

@BanjoToronto 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 yes it does but I mainly ride in city traffic so probably more stress on the wrists in stop and go.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

@@BanjoToronto Oh yeah that will do it for sure. I had one week where I had to commute every day into the city. Lots of stop and go and was killing my left hand.

@aps-pictures9335 11 ай бұрын

The r1250r has more torque than the KTM, so maybe something that could be tweaked. Hardly any miles on it yet!! Get out there 😜

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Haha yeah man, I really gotta put some more miles on this puppy. Planning a trip to picos da Europa in the next 6 months.

@tactical1224 3 ай бұрын

Beautiful machine... but I hate to think what the driveshaft replacement would have cost, if it wasn't covered under warranty...

@AmericanAbroad1 3 ай бұрын

Yeah and after such a short time as well. My next bike will almost certainly be a Yamaha super tenere 1200. I love those bikes

@jeffmccollum3769 11 ай бұрын

try a Brentune on your GS, a lot more torquey. You can keep your stock exhaust.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

I’ll have to look into this

@Scootir185 8 ай бұрын

My GS has been the most reliable bike I've ever owned (and I've owned a few 🙄). And I beat it up off-road on the daily. Like you say I'm sure there's some lemons out there, but overall the bike seems really well engineered for reliability, even with a drop.

@AmericanAbroad1 8 ай бұрын

Completely agree

@MRGS48 Жыл бұрын

400€ is too much for a 12000 miles/20000 kms?? Then what would you say about $1200+ for the same in America?? C’mon brother. Things in Europe are way cheaper in general but what do I know right🤣🤣 Nice video nonetheless 👏👏

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Yeah I completely agree. This bike is actually super cheap to maintain I Europe. And if I didn’t have the manufacture warranty I wouldn’t take it it BMW which would make it even cheaper

@carlossheppard1745 Жыл бұрын

Every year I ride my KTM 1290 Super Adventure in BMW sponsored events off-road here in Japan and they’re constantly being picked up while our group of KTM just passed them up. BMW’s are great for on road riding but can’t touch KTMs off road.

@juliusspiritus 11 ай бұрын

Nice review, but how about ticking noise from the engine? I have 2018 R1200GS and engine is so loud and this ticking noise is so annoying...mine has been always serviced at dealer and still under warranty.. by the way, have you replaced timing chain tensioner (left side cylinder)?

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

I have not replaced the timing chain. Ticking I think is just what they all do. I could be wrong.

@juliusspiritus 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 contact your dealer, they should replace it by warranty / recall. By the way you can easily check by size of the tensioner nut - if it is 17mm - it is old one and needs to be replaced by new one, which is 19mm (if I remember correct).

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

You may just need a Valve adjustment.

@motozest7856 8 ай бұрын

8:58 The R1300GS is coming this September.

@killjoss14 11 ай бұрын

great great video, I have owned en new tiger 900gt very good nice bike , but I like to take to my work to witch is 600km op and down 1 week, I have by my dream machine r1250gs hp from 2019 with 10000 on yes you right in every thing wat you saying. I can just with en koffie next to it and just look to it ,

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Hahah yes it’s a beauty. The 2019 HP model was the first GS I ever rode. Now I’ve ridden many different years of the GS, but yes I love that bike

@jatichsicharta 11 ай бұрын

I do agree that the 1250 has a little more power and a little more throttle response. But for you guys looking for a second hand that fits in your budget, it's not a huge difference. The big difference for me is the TFT screen. Not the suspension or anything else. I have a 2010 Buell XT that is still one off my favorite bikes. Just don't believe this talk about huge improvements.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah idk if the 1300 will actually be much of an upgrade. I almost got a 2018, but I couldn’t resist the TFT. For me that’s a big safety feature. The better displayed my details are on the dash, the less time I’ll spend looking at it. Also, I did feel the gearbox slightly more refined.

@marcfalardeau6058 3 ай бұрын

Hi sir, I am 6 feet tall and ride with a GS 1250 2022. If I understand, I should definitely switch my stock windscreen for a larger Puig ! No more wind noise in my helmet?? Thanks, Marc, Quebec, Canada 🇨🇦🏍😉

@AmericanAbroad1 3 ай бұрын

Yeah so I’m sure torso length is a big factor here. For me at 6ft long torso the puig makes a huge difference. There are bigger screens out there, but I don’t like to look through a screen if I don’t have to. This one is the perfect mix. If I have it in high I get zero buffering. Normally I ride it in low and it’s plenty. If I do a ton of highway miles I will put it at medium and it is great. I hope this helps

@Swedeonamotorcycle 11 ай бұрын

Not sure if it has been mentioned already or if it is of importance but the R1250GS has MORE TORQUE than the KTM 1290, ... Less hP though.. The 1290 is really annoying to drive if you are used to the low end torque of the GS, you have to ride it on alot higher revs.... I do love my GS and even though i hate it i have turned into a BMW Fanboy....

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah not many people know that fun fact. Most people think about top speed. If you wanna ride on the street like a mad man KTM will be great for you, but I prefer the feel of the GS. Every time I ride a KTM it doesn’t fit me. When I’m on the Gs I form in and the bike is molded to me. The KTM feels wide and not inviting to sit on. Even their dirtbikes I had the same issue

@1bike2up Жыл бұрын

That looks like Portugal to me...

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Haha yes it is! Where are you from?

@robsonenduro3316 2 ай бұрын

well, you said it's reliable but they had to replace the shaft drive during first year....never has to replace anything during first few years of any Japanese bikes I have BTW failure of drive shaft can cause serious crash..

@AmericanAbroad1 2 ай бұрын

Nature of this beast unfortunately. But I agree it shouldn’t be an issue on this expensive of a bike. As we all know; more money doesn’t mean better built.

@onahi2002 Жыл бұрын

Power difference is in your head. That's the great BMW marketing! The 1250 shiftcam over the 1200 is simply an EU5 update. Only. Been riding GS since 1999. I want to get away from the GS now. Anything but a GS. Please god help. 😢

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Sure it’s a matter of opinion. The specs say there’s more power, but it’s not a ton. I think the big difference is the way the power is delivered. I rode a 2017 & 2018 model’s quite a lot before I got the 2019 and the 1250 definitely felt more refined for me. Like I said. I stand by my opinion, but everyone is entitled to theirs.

@austinmatthews347 Жыл бұрын

I find my 2022 gsa after riding a while at lights when idling i hear quite high pitched tinny sound from engine is that nirmal i have 4700 miles on mine

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Doesn’t seem normal to me. Might g we that checked out.

@austinmatthews347 Жыл бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 cheers pal its going in a week on sat for rear shock fault sos fault and the input shaft software update so i will mention it

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

@@austinmatthews347 Dang bro. Thats a lot of faults. I wonder if the same thing is causing ít all.

@austinmatthews347 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 lets put it this way bmw and me will be parting ways in the not too distant future. I have just looked at my retrofit voucher for its led headlight. And it clearly states. Words to this effect "Your bmw has been delivered without its adaptive led headlight. Once to semiconductor supply as normalised you will be abke to bring your bike to a dealer of your choice and have the headlight retrofitted." Now correct me if i am wrong but bmw went back to supplying the bikes with the headlights in november if not earlier. So surely they have breached the contract also i am told i can only use the supplying dealer and i must wait in line line a good boy. I am thinking of contacting a solicitor

@rubencorreia4063 Жыл бұрын

Would you switch?

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Eventually I would like to try a few different bikes. Maybe Africa twin and definitely KTM. The GS just has such a unique feeling with the low down boxer engine.

@HM-wj8zz 9 ай бұрын

sound is like Yamaha T max scooter.

@Globemasters Жыл бұрын

I live in Turkey. BMW service cost cheaper than Honda and Yamaha. Also BMW service intervals 10k Km and oil chang one a year on the other hand Honda AT1100 and Yamaha T7 service intervals 6k km and oil change two a year. BMW service cost around 200-250 euros. Japanese bikes cost around 150-170. Overall Bmw is cheap :)

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Yeah I honestly don’t see a huge difference except for some parts. If I service it at a non BMW dealer the cost is the same for most services than would be for a Honda

@shanjoe4472 8 ай бұрын

Can i know how much do you pay for the bike?

@AmericanAbroad1 7 ай бұрын

Around 19-20k fully loaded minus heated seats and pro modes.

@AmericanAbroad1 7 ай бұрын

I have a video about my buyers journey on the channel. Forgive the quality. I was super sick when I filmed and edited it.

@shanjoe4472 7 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 I am just watched that video👍👍

@ShutterUp Жыл бұрын

I need to rent one with a top box and get my wife out for a day and see if it's as comfortable or more comfortable for her than our FJR1300.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

I haven’t riden the FJR1300 but my wife loves to ride on this bike with me. She is about to give birth to our first child and she keeps saying how much she misses it

@ShutterUp Жыл бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 Congratulations!

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

@@ShutterUp Aw thank you so much!

@FlashFlash-tb6vf Жыл бұрын

Ditto my wife who does not really care about motorcycles loves the GS. GS is a big physically imposing bike that makes you feel confident in traffic and just cruising the HWY! It’s Amazing!

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

@@FlashFlash-tb6vf totally agree

@christopherfreeman3095 Жыл бұрын

The difference between German and Japanese machines is not in terms of reliability, in the traditional sense. Japanese machines require less maintenance. German machines are high maintenance, however they are more ultimately reliable, all else equal. The important part of the equation is actually doing all of the required maintenance. Doing it yourself, the parts are marginally more expensive, and typically the work is easier to actually perform. The BMW boxer is a 250,000mi engine, or more, if maintained. Very few Japanese bikes will accomplish that, even with proper maintenance.

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

I agree, it all comes down to good Maintenance. There are Videos on KZfaq showing how to Fix anything on the GS. There’s no reason not to do your own Maintenance.

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

I agree. And the boxer engine actually presents the heads out that make it way easy to work on them if needed.

@diegogrendene5237 11 ай бұрын

The Super Tenere does it...

@MyFatherLoves 11 ай бұрын

I don't understand the bashing on the price of BMW. HD and Indian are even more expensive...

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Totally. Price is still up there on the BMW, but it’s worth every penny.

@SergeyVikultsev 9 ай бұрын

GS is superb bike. You have to be ready to pay more for maintenance buying luxury motorcycle. If you buy it and service properly it will just run. Just do no buy motorcycle which you don’t have money to service.

@AmericanAbroad1 9 ай бұрын

100%. And honestly. If you don’t take it to BMW it really isn’t THAT much more to Maintain.

@georgekypraios2680 11 ай бұрын

…. Come to USA to pay $700 for just an oil change!!! 😅

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yeah if I ever move back to the USA I will probably opt for something cheaper to work on. Here in Europe it’s about the same to work on a GS as a Yamaha. With some variances

@swissteam777 11 ай бұрын

This just comfort me on my choice to not buy a GS1250...

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Ok… you peaked my interest. What stood out to you?

@swissteam777 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 I really like the bike but for this kind of money, you shouldn't expect having issues like the dry shaft out of specs, exhaust valve noise etc... This shows that somehow, the quality went down and that's unacceptable. I also heard from different owners that they had issues like premature rust on the dry shaft or the frame. Neither to say that I will stick with Japanese brands (personal choice and opinion of course).

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Fair enough. I do agree you pay a lot to hear about issues like this. Especially because the failure in question cause several crashes. No doubt it’s a beautiful bike that preforms extremely well… so many people in Europe have this bike and love it, but a Yamaha ST1200 will definitely last you longer and most likely give you less issues. Then you still get the plus of a drive shaft. I wonder if KTM has the same issues

@swissteam777 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 KTM is notorious for having small issues too. Lot of folks out there have complained about leaking rear shocks on the 1290 series or coolant hoses not tighten properly at the factory or electronic malfunction etc. BMW is a great and well established brand I just get worry that the quality overall is dropping and that would be a shame.

@charleshennekam2613 11 ай бұрын

… it’s ridiculous… it ‘s a bit pricey. What kind of logic is this?!?

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

But it’s so fun! Hahah

@jakaberdajs4378 Жыл бұрын

Since when is a year "long term"? Nobody, and especially 20.000km in, will be able to tell all the negatives and/or problems a vehicle may have.

@LG-th8xt Жыл бұрын

this bus in the world of cars is too heavy, too tall and has a short wheelbase, which causes big problems when stationary or when moving or stopping. Service and parts cost like regular two motorcycles. From 10 points, maybe 6 ! It looks like you want to convince yourself that the GS is not a failed purchase, so you repeat BMW advertising messages like a clone? GS and practicality like an elephant and a bird.

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

As far as cost goes it’s way cheaper to maintain the GS than my last Harley Davidson. So I’m happy. And in Europe it’s so cheap to maintain most motorcycles. Cheaper than the U.S. I agree it’s tall and heavy, but for me those are both a plus. The low down feel of the engine really makes the weight manageable. But, this is all my opinion. What bike are you on?

@LG-th8xt Жыл бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 The low down feel of the engine is not. It is in midl range. This year I buy new one, GSA 1250, after two months sold. But good luck i wish

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

@@LG-th8xt you’ve probably never even Ridden one. You probably go on every Motorcycle Video just to Dis whatever Bike is showing. Get a Job and Move out of Mommy’s House and try to grow up!

@milesinnz 11 ай бұрын

the battery issue... certainly was something similar on the R1100 with ABS (presumably the same with the K series with ABS)... the ABS check would start as soon as you turned on the ignition... one of the tests of the ABS was for low voltage, and guess what happens when you press the starter motor with a less than 100% battery.. = low voltage error on the ABS... so I put a relay into the ABS power supply that only activated after the alternator was making power (after the engine was started) - my thought is... how BMW made yet another boo boo with the rear brake error that was suffered in this video ?.. what if you are miles away from an external means of charging the battery - you are stuck there ???

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Yes my thoughts exactly! That’s the only time I actually rethought how many electronics are on this bike. If I waiting 10min it would always start up again, but man. It was so frustrating. BMW told me to charge it once every two months and I haven’t had the issue since. You would think for 25K they could just put somthing that says “charge battery” but doesn’t keep you from starting the thing

@milesinnz 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 why couldn't BMW just wire all the electronic tests to kick in once the engine is started = lots of volts no matter what the state of the battery, assuming it had enough power to start... ask your dealer that.. and when they cannot give you a decent answer, ask them to ask BMW for an answer...

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

@@milesinnz Man, this is great feedback. This is why I love you guys. Always making me better. Yeah idk why they didn’t do that in the first place.

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

You will get the ABS Light until the Tires start moving. That’s normal. Once you start rolling the Light goes out. It needs to be rolling to do a self System check.

@joeybobbie1 11 ай бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 just keep a Trickle Charger on it when it’s Parked, and you will Never have that problem. You need to put a Trickle Charger on any Bike that is Parked.

@AT2021Rocker 11 ай бұрын

Number one way to improve your GSA experience? Move closer to a Starbucks!

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Hahahahhaah so good.

@jackvliet 11 ай бұрын

200 bucks for an oil change???? But damn i want a gsa

@AmericanAbroad1 11 ай бұрын

Only at BMW. If you go local or better yet do it yourself, about the same as any other bike

@allanhughes7859 Жыл бұрын

3000 Dollars in mods W.T.F. !! Really Honestly Really are you insane ?? Its a f...kn bike my bike cost me that and has done 35K miles Still looks good Still rides fine I just dont get why folk pay these sorts of prices and if honest for what ? You say head lamp protector Well let it break and pay a 100 dollars or whatever just spend as you need to you will never get to the 3000 dollars and if you do you will be a very very very un lucky person ???

@AmericanAbroad1 Жыл бұрын

Haha thanks for the feedback friend. Yeah installing mods myself is half the fun for me. And some of these extras cost an arm and a leg. But I love each one. I ride it every day so I’m ok with it. Ride safe!

@allanhughes7859 Жыл бұрын

@@AmericanAbroad1 Fair comment my friend but you must have a lot of spare cash/dollars ??