New BMW R1300 GS - Top 5 things I hate
Vložit
- čas přidán 20. 05. 2024
- The new BMW R1300 GS is pretty good, but no motorcycle is perfect is it. In this video I bring you the top 5 things I dislike about this new adventure bike....
Buy me a coffe at www.buymeacoffee.com/themisse...
My Patreon page / themissendenflyer
Get 5% off your ABR Festival tickets with "TMF5" at checkout!
Use this link to get a 10% discount on the Beeline satnav bit.ly/43PjgE8
I buy my riding kit from Sportsbike shop www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/#/23...
Exclusive TMF Merch on my website themissendenflyer.com/ and of course Teespring (click the red spring top right).
Links to my channel sponsors:-
Bikerheadz bikerheadz.co.uk/
Canary Motorcycle Tours www.canarymotorcycletours.com...
If you want to follow my socials then I'm most active on Instagram @missendenflyer
You can also follow me on Facebook too The Missenden Flyer@TheMissendenFlyer
I'm also - rarely - on that X (Twitter) thing! Join me @MissendenFlyer
Don't forget your other TMF Discounts!:-
Mention The Missenden Flyer when buying from panigaleheatshield.com/ or ducatispacers.com/ for discounts on Panigale heat shields or Ducati/Triumph throttle spacer kits. Use the code MISSENDEN to get the $10 discount on the heat shield, or heat shield/spacer kit bundle and MISSENDENSK for 10% off the spacer kit.
I use the following equipment to record and edit my VLOGs:-
DJI Osmo Action 4 camera amzn.to/3GFeL65
DJI Mavic Air drone (fly more combo) amzn.to/2JX3l23
Lavalier microphone and sellotape for in helmet audio amzn.to/2kOZVOU
RODE Wireless Go dual channel radio mics amzn.to/3ofuIqp
Power Director 12 for the PC (for video editing) amzn.to/2kP3HaR
Radio mic for in garage audio amzn.to/2lpq61B
Rode VIDEOMICPRO On Camera Microphone for general use amzn.to/2qvcZwv
Rode Deadcat VMPR Windshield to kill wind noise amzn.to/2qroOWG
Neewer CN 160 LED Dimmable Ultra High Power Panel Video Light amzn.to/2qQPEs2
Goliton® Camera DSLR Triple Mount for LED Video Lights Microphones amzn.to/2rpUlGg
A pair of Lantoo LED Floodlight 50W for additional lighting amzn.to/2rpOKjs
My current motorcycles are:-
BMW R1200GS
Kawasaki Z900 RS SE
Triumph Speed Twin
Royal Enfield Custom 650 Interceptor
Honda GL1800 Goldwing Tour DCT (Airbag)
Suzuki GSXS125 (OK, that's the Mrs bike!)
Please be aware I am not a professional journalist or otherwise claim to be an expert in any way in motorcycles or anything else. I'm just an ordinary biker like you probably are. Please regard my videos as entertainment only and if information presented is important to you, please verify it via a knowledgable third party....the videos I post are just my opinions and are no more valid than anyone elses.
For any additional enquiries please send an e-mail (please no DM's or Facebook Messenger messages that tend to get lost) via TheMissendenFlyer@gmail.com, follow me via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or preferably leave a comment below... - Zábava
The more new bike reviews I watch the more I love my Bandit 1200 !!
I agree. I'll stick to my old Blackbird.
Yep!
The bandit is still a cool looking bike and virtually bulletproof
Completely agree! I would choose my ST1100 and my Bandit 650S any day.
🤡
… you’re in a highly privileged position to be able to ride this brand new machine for an extended period of time, and assess how it is likely to work in the real world… and it comes across that you’re taking the opportunity seriously to try and be as subjective as possible about the experience. I found myself intrigued but also wondering just how having to dive into ‘layered menus’ on the screen to activate features whilst riding ever got signed off as safe??!! The design of the rear lights borders on the unsafe at best (and it’s been covered in the previous model on other channels as potentially dangerous due to its confusing lack of clarity)… and the phrase ‘cruise control radar’ had my eyes rolling… I mean wtf has happened to bikes??!!
That said, good job and looking forward to more updates 😁😁👍🏼👍🏼
I decided against getting a triumph explorer after the salesman showed me how"easy" it was to adjust the windscreen...its not easy so "no sale". I don't have a smart phone, I don't play computer games, and I don't buy from anyone who says "it's easy" when it isn't. That Enfields looking better and better .🏍️💨💨💨💨💨💨
Didn't you mean 'objective' as possible? Yah, I don't think layered menus were ever intended to be accessed in urban traffic. What's confusing or unclear about dual rear lights? Yah, interactive cruise control seems over-kill, but customers are buying it, and it does help prevent collisions.
@@garymaclean6903 However, the rear end can be brilliantly resolved while retaining full large head/center lights and separate side turn signals, while also adapting the radar for adaptive cruise control. Just look at how seamlessly Ducati has done it with the Multistrada V4 series
@@hewlett62 The assumption seems to be there is something inherently wrong with dual rear brake and signal lights. Again, these have existed successfully on most other vehicles on the road for a century or more. Does BMW need to make them brighter? Maybe. Do they need to switch to a single centre light and separate turn signal lights? No...
The design of the rear lights for models that have a large centre light (i.e. models introduced since late 2020) presents no safety issues whatsoever, from either a recorded or logical point of view. All that matters is that the following vehicle has seen that the bike is braking, hence why having an large rear light matters. In having removed the rear light the question now is, is the difference in luminosity sufficient such that all drivers would see that the rider is braking, under all conditions. Change in the luminosity in the rear brakes is what matters, whereas the whole argument about whether one can see the indicators or not is a red herring.
You just confirmed two of my initial observations about the new GS. The rear lighting is minimal at best, and down right dangerous ⚠️ at worst ! And from the front, it has a “face” only a mother could love 😱! But then I guess I’m not the market audience, as it’s just too much money for me to feel comfortable spending on a “guilty pleasure”. (But then you covered that too 😉.)
Well, if 1250 GS Adventure is "The father" perhaps BMW has thought that 1300 should be "The mother's ugly boy". Can't wait to see how BMW thinks about how "The mother" will look like.
Agree 100% that compound rear light and indicators is a massive safety issue, especially when braking at the same time, as will so often be the case. It’s a danger on cars with even bigger light clusters, so even moreso when compressed closer together on a bike.
I'm not sure why BMW couldn't put a line of LEDs around the outside of the radar blank. Wouldn't look out of place
@@bruceh8532 totally agree, so many easy options
Weizer Teknik...thats another 300quid
Agreed definitely need an aux brake light but dang for the money should have included a proper brake light!
However, the rear end can be brilliantly resolved while retaining full large head/center lights and separate side turn signals, while also adapting the radar for adaptive cruise control. Just look at how seamlessly Ducati has done it with the Multistrada V4 series
BMW got it wrong in the early stages of design when they decided to chase competitor spec sheets.
They don’t have to, it’s a GS, The Rhino!
136hp on my 1250 is perfect and no that headlight and tail light setup will not grow on me.
Go back to 2019, add backlit switchgear and maintain that road presence.
It’s a big bike folks, as it should be.
Have to disagree, the 1300GS is the first one that is tempting me to cross over (Multistrada 1260 Enduro owner) I think it looks way better
@@NorCalSaintand i just switched to a 2020 multistrada pikes peak after riding 1200 gs for the last 6 years. what a machine!
@@eshdan - That 1260 engine is hard to beat
@@NorCalSaintjust picked one up. It’s an awesome bike. A bit better than an old bandit. Laughable.
@@Vusseyv881 - Had a 2002 Bandit 1200s myself at one point.
Surprised you didn’t pick up on the gold handlebars - I know they tie in with the wheels but I still think they look awful. The price is bonkers, but there are people who will pay it so as long as that’s the case they’ll get away with it. Your point about PCP is spot on and it’s why people who don’t have £1,000 in the bank can run around in £50k cars they’ll never own. Looking forward to the next update.
Simplicity in a motorcycle provides a greater amount of Peace for the owner.......Sal : )
100% agree on the purchase price being impacted by pcp. Cars have massively suffered from it too. Its getting real crazy.
Everybody driving around in cars or on bikes they can't really afford means the RRP becomes irrelevant to manufacturers.
I can't see anyone wanting to own any of these new tech laden bikes much past three years anyway and definitely not without a warranty.
Agree , if we went back to a cash only society the roads would certainly be alot quieter . I don't think u really appreciate something when ur just renting it , not the same as when u save up for something, everything now is easy come easy go .
Even when I’d just passed at 17 I had mates in Audis etc spending 3/4 of their monthly wages on finance
@@DaleMt09sp Crazy. During the last recession the most reposessed car in the UK was a Q7. It seems people getting lured into going up the ladder too far.
Totally agree with your thoughts on PCP deals. In my mind it’s the main reason why cars and bikes have become so expensive. Dealers are even advertising cars/bikes by monthly payment instead of price. I went as far as making an inquiry about such an advert and they wouldn’t tell me the price of the vehicle or indeed how much I was getting for a trade in. They just wanted to tell me the alteration to the monthly payment. Sorry but that’s not the way I like to do business.
Another grip is the fact they expect you to spend many thousands of pounds on the strength of an hours test ride. Ask for a longer test and they look at you as if you’ve just asked for an hour with their wife. Why can’t customers who are looking to spend hard cash get the bike for a few days to make sure it’s the right one for them. For that keep up with the vids - they’re an enjoyable watch.
Thank you! ...and I agree!...
The quick shifter on the new Transalp is literally like silk! As for PCP’s it’s all part of the manufacturer/ retailer scam by keeping the actual cost from customers!
Because it’s not your bike and if you damage it it’s out of their bottom line just ride it for an hour 24 times if that’s how long you need . I bought a Triumph Speed Triple Rs and I didn’t even test ride it, I just thought it’s a Triumph it’s got 180 bhp and it’s got Brembo brakes so I bought it, simple really!
The cash buyer gets the worse deal nowadays. I was looking at buying a 1 Yr old vw tiguan and asked about a deal for cash and they wouldn't budge a penny on a 32k purchase yet offered me £250 contribution and 2 free services if I took it on pcp . Cash is no longer King .
@@antonoatliterally went out on one today very good quick shifter it even slid into first without a jolt
The National Observers in my IAM club are all having the same niggle re the rear lights on their various BMW'S. Associates are claiming the indicators are not clear during instruction rides.
I think combining two extremely important lights into one is not a positive move….this is a retrograde step IMO. I think I would rather forgo blind spot and distance cruise over dedicated acted stop and indicator lights. You might argue that the front indicator is the most important (comments I have seen elsewhere) but one of the most dangerous moves is waiting to turn right on a busy road. With rear light and indicator combined I think this is a recipe for disaster and for that reason alone I would not buy this motorcycle….price being the other.
I should say that I have had a GS of some description or other since 1984 so I am probably not the target market for the new model.
@@mac22011964 I agree with you. On the Tiger 1200, Triumph was able to incorporate the radar sensor at the rear without deleting the main tail light. This latest design option for the tail lights by BMW is irresponsible.
Maybe this is why companies are offering additional tail & indicator lights ;-)
Had same problem following a r18
Niggly rear lights , but you still bought the bike, and then complain about safety. Coming from a safety orientated organisation, bit strange I think. Ist rule of risk assessment don't do it if you don't have to. In this case you definitely don't have to, it is a personal choice. Have you taken this up with BMW?
BMW have a problem matching shaft drives with gearboxes. They should ask Honda how to do it!
They don't see it that way at BMW. They call it "characterful shifting" 😂😂😂
Or Moto Guzzi
It’s a boxer not shaft thing.
@@user-hb6ms3mb4t True - Gears are silken on my 1997K1200RS and my 2015 K1300S
@@davidmcmillan8408 Naturally.
With the burger button, set the heated functions to the hold button and the screen to the direct button. Those are the features you'll need most on the road. Greetings
the problem is, you can assign only 2 functions that way. Not enough
@@belousoa9330 3 functions! Screen, handlebar heating and seat heating. If you want to operate more functions on your handlebars, you need a bigger handlebar. 😆
Brilliant Video. Any chance of a night video showing the cornering headlight in action.
I have them the other way round- I need to fiddle with grip and seat heating far more than screen height. In winter anyway. You can still change up to 4 riding modes too, on the right hand bar. Plenty enough I think
There are too many on screen controls on many bikes tbh when riding you should be concentrating on the road not the screen just my opinion
All the best 👍👍👍
You are exactly right.
The same with many new cars, they advertise a touch screen the size of a TV where most of the controls are situated, and you are distracted trying find various controls. A definite safety hazard.
As a 1250 gsa owner the large frontal area was what attracted me at 6ft 4in gives much better wind protection than others. Also like the beefy looks that new light looks awful and I guess doesn't tilt like 1250. As to price guess new gsa will be £25k plus fully loaded. Will be interesting to see how well these sell and if front end redesigned at some point not changing mine for one of these anytime soon. Another great real world video thanks Andy
Agree - at 6ft6 the 1250a looks like something you could ride through a brick wall on. This just looks a bit…..less
great report, I absolutely share the 5 points that you don't like, but I would add one more that particularly bothers me on my GS 1300 TRIPLE BLACK and that is the lack of backlighting on the buttons
Yes I agree...
Yes, I agree, the lack of backlighting on the buttons in 2024 is a big issue🥵.
I agree with EVERYTHING you’ve said 👏👏👏I’ll be keeping my R1250GS 👌
Yeah cool so did I. I simply bought this one as well.
Nice review, I agree 22/23 K is just getting ridiculous for the average rider to pay out for a weekend plaything.
Well there is always vstorm for average ? Or t7.
Took a transalp out today at about 9500 or whatever it is it’s all the bike most would need tbh
It’s 53k in my country. Give me 2 please!😂
Kevin, Singapore
Hates a strong word fella . Dislike intensely sounds better . Had many variants or the 1200/1250 and won't be buying this abomination! Personally I dislike it intensely 😜
Fair review, bear in mind it’s a shaft drive adventure bike not a chain driven naked or sports bike. The quick shifter will not compare to an R1/ s1000r etc- due to the delivery a shaft drive gives to a chain driven bike. I run an R1200R with GA and yes it is a little clunky compared to a chain driven bike- especially in lower revs, wind it on and it’s silky smooth.
Great review! Totally agree with your top 5 without riding it. Hopefully BMW Motorrad will address these issues in future model years.
The lights on these GSs are going from bad to worse.
The existing multi-function indicators on the 1250 are already bad enough as they make the turn signal less visible when braking and now they've completely done away with the tail light. Why not stick to how it's always been and have a much clearer separate tail/stop light and single function indicators? Crazy.
And there's no excuse either, because the V4 Multistrada demonstrates that you can have rear facing radar whilst still retaining a separate tail light.
I openly admit that I tend to go for for the latest fully loaded model and replaced my previous 1200 at 11k miles 😊 The 1300 unfortunately just doesn’t create any desire to change and the marginal improvements are more than offset by points you raise. The final straw for me is that the luggage is awful and adds more complexity/cost. I intend to keep my 1250 longer and may even try and purchase another low mileage 1250 when I get to 25k.
I don't think you're the only one thinking like this!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Agreed and that may be a problem when I almost certainly go looking for a low mileage 1250 🤣 Great video and I really enjoy the excellent content that you produce 👍
Thank you very much!
For 24 grand you don't get illuminated buttons! Big miss on safety. I would have liked the wide display they use on the GTL with nav on this bike at this price. Ducati and Triumph offer all these "premium" options as standard. Only the accessories are optional.
Agreed. My "budget" 390 Adventure came with illuminated buttons... in 2020!
Safety ? From illuminated buttons? Never had a bike with illuminated buttons in my life, and did quite mileage in 38 years, own 11 bikes today, none of them has illuminated buttons… nice yes but safety feature? Not IMHO
And at £15,990 you don't even get a quick shifter.
@@motolab.EuropeanMotorcycles perhaps you don't ride at night...
@@shubhromu yeahhhh really? You don’t read or……… i logged/recall 900.000 km motorcycle specific in total.. do you really thinks so?
Great to hear a balanced review of the new gs. Keep up the impartial work👍
Thanks, will do! Stay tuned!
Thanks Andy for another honest impressions video. Your comments about the integration of rear running/brake lights and indicators in my view also applies to a similar trend in cars. I agree it makes indicators less obvious to following drivers.
Agree entirely with you, (apart from using the hate word!) on the points you raise regarding the bike. I actually rode to my nearest dealer on my 40+ yr old RS to take a look at one in the flesh yesterday. I have to say the model you’re riding, in the green and gold, does look much better in the flesh but certainly not worth over £23k. I also agree with you that PCP type finance deals are to blame for the increase in prices of both bikes and cars to ridiculous levels as all people seem to look at are the monthly figure. This of course traps them effectively into replacing their bike/car every 3yrs 😔
Glad we concur - thanks for watching!
Yeah, the, "hate" word is way over the top for me as well. Unfortunate in this application. I "love" the review and reviewer otherwise.
Sadly I have to use sensationalist language to trigger the CZcams gods - everyone is at it (I do try and minimise it though)....
Deep dive user interfaces are my absolute pet hate. As motorcycles have become more unnecessarily complicated with all the gew gews and gadgets and "must haves" they become less relevant to me. I have contended for quite a while now that menu driven functions are way more dangerous to use on the road than a few simple switches. As a previous BMW GSA owner (1200) this bike is not one that interests me at all, as good as it may be. I will stick with my 2016 Africa Twin for a while yet I think. Good review Andy.👍
Thanks for watching and or stopping by!
If you double click the burger button, the heated seat and grip menu come up, then use the rocker to adjust. This is standard, then you can program the rocker by going into the menu by highlighting a function....
Interesting video, Andy. I've always used the term "false neutral" to refer to the selection of a neutral gear where the selector forks are incorrectly positioned between two gears such that neither set of cogs is properly engaged. If the N light comes on it can't be a "false neutral" although it might be an "unwanted" or an "unexpected" neutral. 😉
Richard
The windshield could've been manually adjustable in the same manner as on the Multistrada V4s.
All it takes is one finger for 1 second, at any speed.
Also, bmw could've kept the button for the ignition from the 1250, and with that, left the button for heating as before.
Agreed 100%
Didn’t mind the looks initially thinking it’d be a grower but sadly that’s not happening for me yet. But the impact it’s having on the value of my 1250 ( according to a large BMW dealer) means i’ll stick with what i have for a while yet . No bad thing
Great summary, My Flyer. I must say that I agree with everyone of them. after more than 20 years and nearly 300,000kms across a total of five GS/GSAs, these are some of the reasons that I seriously doubt that my next bike will be GS or GSA again, sad to say.
Affraid the looks haven't grown on me still, tho I've stll to see one live but not expecting my opinion changing. Especially as you have highlighted the rear lights area. I find it hard enough seeing the indicators/running light combination on most cars these days, especially during daylight, so on a motorcycle I would imagine it to be even harder to see. So refreshing to hear your views of things to dislike about this bike, being a GS admirer and long time owner that you are sir.
When BMW released the first images of the new 1200GS I found it gorgeous at first sight, and I kept this sensation after years of ownership. For the 1300GS I think you'll get accustomed with its face ugliness but the rest of the world won't and they will think of you like you think of men who (somehow) married an impossibly ugly wife. Although if you are self confident enough you won't give a cake about it.
I see sales in Scotland rising massively with that new headlamp. 😂
I totally agree with the comment by adamnun9723 regarding the rear light or lack of one. How the hell did that get type approval for this country. It is not many years ago that bikes had to fail the MOT if fitted with multi function LED rear lamps. It was regarded as interaction between the side, stop and indicator lamps. Personally that would prevent me from buying the bike even if I had the £24,000. Your riding was definitely affected by you trying to access that menu it was very clear on the video. Both things not safe in my opinion.
@mikethebikemt07tracer Yeah. Some of our American friends have already announced that this taillight design will not pass homologation in their country because the law requires a separate main brake light - as I understand it. How BMW will/won't sell it there is a mystery to me. Relying on an exemption is probably not an option?
@@hewlett62 Thanks for the info, glad that I am not the only one that is seeing an issue here.
Great video as always! I very much enjoy your views and reviews!
I find it interesting, and you point this out as well, that most/many of the negative attributes on the of the 1300 GS, came to be as a consequence of criticism toward the 1250 GS, or comparisons to other premium bikes in that class. Here is where my gripe, not with you, but with many comments on the WWW, starts.
What number of individual controls are not enough and what number are too many? How much functionality should be controllable from the handlebars without drawing criticism for cluttered up handle bar controls? Should controls be backlit or is that a potential safety issues due to glare at night or rainy conditions? I don't have the answers, but many on the WWW seem to, thank Goodness! In the end, it is very difficult to make an already great bike perfect (ask Triumph or Ducati or KTM or...etc), and it is impossible to make it right for everyone.
As far as price, it is a bike that costs a lot of money. So, how much should a bike in that premium class cost? The top spec Tiger is about $1,000 less but warranty does not cover off-road use. The top spec Multistrata is about the same as the BMW but still has chain drive. I believe the top spec KTM is a few 1,000 less, but one would have to be happy with riding a KTM 😉. I understand the argument of price, but only as it compares to similar machines in that market segment.
Like you, I appreciate owning my bikes. I can't afford the new 1300 GS, so I'll keep driving my 1200 GS. Eventually I might graduate to a used 1250 GS and maybe at some point, if I can convince myself that I don't need the rugged GS look, I might end up with a used 1300 GS.
Keep up the good work, Andy! 👍
regarding the lights- i highly recommend the BrakeFree light that volts into your helmet. It’s amazing. And safe. I have them on all my helmets
Interesting vid. I guess ultimately it's difficult to (ever?) justify spending 24k on a bike, especially if you don't like the way it looks.
Sorry to hear you don't like the looks of it. I think it's one of the most important things in a bike. One must LOVE his bike and be excited to see it every morning
If the bike doesn't grow on you, I'd buy it off of you any time 😊
Cheers mate! Drive safe and keep the vids coming
Really good informative video as we have come to expect from you and spot on editing . Question is if I bought the base model would you get a proper rear light and front end or would it still be the same with the plastic panels with empty space behind . With the lights as there and the having to delve into the menu,s is down right dangerous. Personally I will not buy this model on that basis a step to far with BMW trying to change a tried and tested formula . The old adage “ if It ain’t,t broke don,t fix it “ comes to mind .
Another vote against the rear light configuration. I think it's a safety issue and I hope the aftermarket comes up with a solution. Also, I think it was a mistake to move the power button away from the center to the right switch gear. That's a non standard place to have it and it takes away a spot that could have been used for something you use more often, like heated grips.
PCP’s filter bikes into the used market and no doubt you’ll be able to pick up a used 1300 with 3000 miles for £15k. That said, I’m not defending BMW for their pricing.
Nice video! Concerning point 3...... you can set your windscreen as "long press" on the hamburger button. So short press -> heating; long press -> windscreen. With this manner you can allocate two functions without having to go in the menu.
Still a faff though isn’t it…..at least to me.
What a great video and makes a change from the usual gushing 1300 GS videos. Totally agree on the price and the option pack's. I've have never ridden a bike with a quicknshifter and I am not interested in one neither. I wish some would review a totally got standard GS to see what it's like. Personally I don't think Bmw would well me one
Hi andy
Thanks you for being so truthful kn this bike. Alot of youtubers are scared to say bad things about manufacturers...
2 more things. Still think the tft should have connectivity and also back lit switches
You forgot to mention the lack of backlit switchgear …..oh…..and the small matter of the worldwide recall of bikes to fit a new start button so they don’t all catch fire.Good old BMW , releasing a bike too early and letting the PCP lemmings be the beta testers 😜
I have a long list of pros and many more cons lined up for my "lessons learned" video towards the end of my period with the bike....
Interesting point regarding the most basic bike you could buy. When I was looking to purchase the then new R1250GS, I was told by Bahnstormer BMW, Alton to think very carefully about the basic model, as they would not take one in part exchange should I ever wish to trade it in. I believe that it was because they thought they would struggle to resell it due to the fact, as you highlight, its got none of the features that anyone would want.
That is very interesting isn't it - maybe the opposite is actually true! I doubt BMW make many of the "Basic" models.....
That mirrors my experience with Bahnstormer exactly. When I was interested in a (then) new 1200 GSA with none of the extra packs they basically suggested that they would not order it - and if I forced them it would take many many months to be made/delivered as it was virtually unheard of. Bizarrely about 3 months later I traded my standard GS for a 2nd hand low mileage nearly new basic spec GSA at Bahnstormer- so go figure!
@@TheMissendenFlyerIn a few months, check the registrations when the Q4 data is published. Up to the end of Q3 - again in relation to the RT - there were just 10 RTs registered compared with 337 RT LEs.
I agree with all your points, I’d also add it’s lost some character and the ride is harsher and has definitely lost its appeal somewhat. I’d also say these integrated light are dangerous !!! they have been around a while now . I’ve sometimes missed my mates indications and could of easily hit them 😢
Excellent points made as usual. The cost of new bikes is getting silly and for younger and or new riders it is already a very complex and expensive process to get into motorcycling as it is. You have all the tests to pass, the clothing to buy and then the bikes are getting daft money. This is a very nice bike and I would not expect a new rider to buy one but the whole cost thing is across the board and this just drags the cost of cheaper bikes higher by manufacturers setting higher and higher benchmarks on cost.
Thanks Andy for your sterling work reviewing bikes. I've recently retired at a youthful 66, seriously contemplating buying my first new bike ever (always bought used). I own 3 bikes, my favourite being a 2005 XL1000 Honda Varadero, simple, no ABS, no fuel gauge, no gear indicator....very basic. I love it to bits. It's an old iron horse that's never let me down, ridden thousands of miles on it, a keeper, but it's time to give it some pasture. I'm taking a keen interest in you mentioning the 1300GS base model. I wonder how many guys like myself might find the base model the right bike for the job. I watched you hauling through the test bike's menus. That will drive me crazy. Maybe you could expand on this line of thinking as you continue evaluating.....thanks
Yes interesting thought Mark....will do...
Great comment, Mark. I agree with you entirely. Simpler, the better. I have the Varadero's cousin, the VTR 1000 Firestorm. No ABS, no traction control, no power settings, no cruise control, etc. I could go on. Just swing a leg over, turn the ignition on, pull the choke (if cold), into gear and away you go. Simple as. Wonderful.
The headlight thing while not the best looking, you don’t see it when you’re sat on the bike. Does it put a smile on your face when riding? If so a winner. As you say there’s no bad bikes. Like beers really, some better than others. Look forward to the next video
Yes it definately puts a smile on your face when you ride the bike, it is a lovely thing to ride for sure....defo the best GS from a riding perspective no doubt about that.
Doesn't matter that you don't see it when riding. I think most people want that curb appeal, that buzz when you're walking up to the bike or looking at it parked from the cafe window. (imo)
I certainly do! It'sa major part of the ownership experience for me...
Andy, I totally agree about the lack of a dedicated rear light. I regularly ride with my wife , mother of my children. It is very important to me to be as visible as possible from both front and rear bikes are already difficult to see it would seem..
A lot of 1250GS owners who have integrated rear lights have bought a converter kit to separate brake lights and indicators. No backlit switchgear. Great deals on the 1250s now in my local dealerships.
You can’t do that if you have PCP, the bike is not yours and you are breaking the terms of your agreement!
Great synopsis as always. The rear lights set-up looks a real safety issue, even a danger. Not sure what can be done about the radar block as I guess the size can't be reduced with current tech? The front light is hideous and the menu looks a total nightmare. As for the price, well it does have a badge with BMW on it....
The radar block can't be reduced in size, but more effort can be done to camouflage/integrate it more into the styling. On the front BMW could raise it a bit higher and hide it behind a proper cowling. At the rear, grouping the tail lights around it would already integrate it more: bolt the indicator stalks on the sides of the radar block, bolt the rear light underneath teh block and bolt the brake light on top of the block and it already looks far more harmonious.
@@tjroelsmaAgreed....good thinking!
@@tjroelsma Can't be reduced in size??? I recommend to take a look at the Ducati Multistrada V4. I have a PikesPeak and the radar block is almost half the size of this one on a BMW 1300. So a full size tail light, plus separate turn signals, fit perfectly on the rear :-)
@@hewlett62 I'm not saying it can't be done, your Ducati being an example of this, but I guess it depends on multiple factors:
1. the range of the radar
2. the sensitivity of the radar
3. the redundancy (larger radars are less sensitive to dirt, rain etc.)
You'd have to do a comparative test with both bikes to see what the difference between the two radars is. I simply can't imagine BMW mounting a radar that is twice the size without (a) good reason(s).
@@tjroelsma But come on: by reverse logic, I could say that I can't imagine Ducati making a small plastic cover for the rear radar just for aesthetic appeal, and thus also greatly reducing range and sensitivity. If I'm driving and have ACC set, I can see the warning in the left (right) rear view mirror by the LED indication - depending on the speed of the vehicle overtaking me in the fast lane. The speed vector of that vehicle is compared in the control electronics to my motorcycle and then according to some implemented logic, that Blind Spot Detection light comes on for me (whoever, the system is a derivative of known systems from cars). It works perfectly, neither too late nor too early. Just enough so that if I start carelessly overtaking into his lane, I don't fly in front of him. So BMW would (if I concede your point) the increased sensitivity and range - because a much bigger piece of plastic - would achieve what extra in practice? As far as I can tell, both manufacturers use the same Bosch system in principle. It's very hard to assume that BMW got or made (along with electronics) a better Bosch based radar system than Ducati uses a Bosch based radar system. My opinion is that the much larger piece of plastic on the rear of the BMW 1300 that covers the actual radar unit is not any more sensitive, nor does it have much more range than the Ducati - in fact, it will not be more effective. Yes, there will be some reason for BMW's size, but adequately increased efficiency of the actual system probably won't be it :-). We'll see - I'll ask Ducati directly about it, I'll have that option soon.
UUH-OOH, Andy you are a brave man, messing with the Scottish Flag, normally I warn people about Hoodies,but you better watch out for skirts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I dont understand all the "CZcamsrs" complaning about quickshifters on BMWs, without anybody mentioning that the bike is shaft driven, and that BMWs have been clunky for almost a 100 years, it is much easier to make a quickshift smooth on a chain driven bike,where you can incorperate cushions!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just something that I pick up on with all these motorcycle reviews as there are so many on CZcams, I think it would be much safer to do some of these while parked up, most of these points featured in this video could have been done that way, doing a review/running commentary while riding surly effects congestion and on what is going on around you, speed limits, overtaking parked cars (door zone) with on coming traffic, taking your eyes off the road to make menu adjustments etc.
Sorry, safety is just something that I look for, when watching these motorcycle reviews while riding.
I find that just riding a motorcycle alone is mentally draining, as you have so much going on around you that you have to be mindful about, maybe it’s my age lol.
Love the channel.
Ride safe👍🏻
Great review of a real world ownership experience, thank you. A fair point about scrolling through menus to find functions, maybe a step to far putting everything in a menu system, a manual screen doesn't feel that much of an inconvience compared to the danger of taking our eyes off of the road, which let's face it, is never a great idea. I totally agree on the pricing structure/pcp effect. It seems to me we are coming to a fork in the road moment. We can go all in with something like a fully loaded GS (if you have the pockets to finance it) or we can go a more back to basics route with something like the Transalp. Fair enough, none of the gadgets but a solid bike and until a few years ago it has more electrics that we could have wished for, is the GS really worth two and half times the asking price of a transalp. Maybe, but it is becoming an interesting choice to make. At least there is a choice which is at the end of the day all that really matters.
That's very true James - we are in a golden age of motorcycling I reckon!
Yeah that headlight is awful, i don't which is worse, that or the Pan American
When it is generally accepted that using a mobile phone while driving is a dangerous distraction how can big colourful displays with involving menu options possibly be OK? (As you demonstrated on that roundabout).
Yep spot on. Scrolling through your phone when riding/driving is considered so bad here in England that it's points on your licence and fines if caught.
Couldn't agree more! It's the same in modern cars with those massive iPad screens, so distracting!!!
Thanks for the latest thoughts on the new 1300 GS. I agree with you about the overall look of the new bike vs the outgoing one. Like you I configured a 1300 and the price came out at $25,340 USD. Out of the two local BMW dealers there's one 2023 1250 GS available and there asking $25,350 for it. I am also looking at the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. One local dealer has four 2023s listed at $ 16,099. That makes in a huge bargain compared to the BMW. I look forward to more videos on the new 1300 GS to see if it's worth the extra money.💰.
Hi Andy and all. As I mentioned before I bought the bike you described in your spec and you’re spot on with the price. It’s expensive but I want it to be a keeper.
Lots of talk about the lights, I was behind one the other day and I thought they worked fine.
Great to hear!
Just out of interest, how much have you used the radar cruise control? Is it really something that we all need on our bikes??? I get it's prehaps branded as a safety feature, but it clearly comes at a premium price
Actually I love the feature and on a recent ride to Wales (video coming!) I used it an awful lot....
6. Switch gear not back lite either
Indeed….
Some very interesting points raised. Unfortunately I’ll never be in a financial position to own one. As an engineer I can really appreciate the technology in this machine but as a motorcycle traveller I feel the technology merely masks the essence of motorcycling . I for one would much rather be engaged with the spectacular scenery and chatting to locals rather than thumbing my way through menus . Motorcycling is pure escapism from the screen infused tech filled world . Fantastic video sir and to those who earn enough money to buy one enjoy it and I hope it takes you on the adventures you want to see through .
Yes James I completely get where you are coming from and to a degree agree with you!
Thanks for the review, very clear and concise. I’d like to get your considerations about the following topic that takes me (as i’m considering to buy my first gs for distant travels): i tested both 1250 gsa and 1300 on the same day and got an impression that the old one is much better decoupled from the road and the 1300 sits much tighter even in the road mode. Not sure i will like that on the so-so roads. Can you confirm and how would you estimate it? Could you try to soften the rebound in the menus and check the effect over a longer distance? Also, the sitting comfort: Less relaxed now with sharper knee angle (i am 184 cm, 33-34 inseam). Any thoughts on that? Thank you in advance!
My comparison video of the two coming soon!
Your comments about BMW pricing are very valid. The word "hate" is more suited to social media influencers, not readily associated with a highly respected motorcycle journalist.
Well I don't regard myself as a journalist, just a hobbyist but that's very nice of you to say! Sadly if you want to get through the noise of CZcams you have to use stronger language to trigger the algorithms....
You forgot it can catch fire ! 🤔
Can it??
@@TheMissendenFlyer There is a world wide stop sale order in place, with a recall on the starter relay . It seems it can ignite 😮
@andywilliams622 It's not a bug, it's a feature 😂😂
Enjoyed the honest vid. There have been 2 recalls. It's the IHS (Involuntarily Heated Seat) system at fault.
BTW 3:11 That was a genuine neutral, you've not been farming long enough to get used to the gearbox. @@TheMissendenFlyer
Agree with you on the aesthetics and other points. I have a 2018 BMW GSA, I think it looks way better than this new model. Motorrad needs to go back to the drawing board. Keeping my 2018 model, was the 1st year with TFT & really like it.
I like the clarity of your voice while recording while riding a motorcycle. Could you write the mic settings??
I dont like that you need to service/change the driveshaft every 80.000 km at a cost of almost 1000 euro.
What do you have to do other than change the rear drive oil? Something that I've done at home in 15 minutes on many occasions.
Richard
According maintenance schedule of the gs 1300, drive shaft need to be replaced. Due to all the problems with the old models, also rt, they are free serviced every 60.000km under warranty. Bmw changed there policy.
Buying stuff ya can't afford by financing is why wage slavery still exists....
I agree!
Just watched the ARTE DOKU about debt, 2 Minutes ago😂
Great video TMF, love the bike, not going to cancel my order just yet. Been told today it’s built and on its way to the uk.
I wont tell my new bike you’ve dissed it when it arrives....(just pulling your leg). Ride safe pal.
No doubt it's a great bike to ride Beans - enjoy mate!
Hi Andy,
The main reason I would hate it is the price.
The back lights are quite minuscule; I agree.
In this climate, you need a proper knob for the heater.
I still would go for a second hand bike; an RT.
£24000 would buy you 6 REs . The TFT is as complicated as a Japanese karsie .
😆
6 RE's!!
My worst nightmare😱
At least the new Africa Twin still looks great...😂
I have done >80K miles on 3 GS's before the R1300, so like you I am a fan. The biggest thing I have noticed with the R1300 is that the point that the previous GS's said no more power, i'm getting buzzy and you don't have any more handeling left, the new bike goes a bit further with all of that and is fun doing it. Wait till you have a dry road in dynamic and spank it. :)
I agree on safety....drivers in cars don't pay attention to begin with and with smaller and not as noticable - throw in the use of the whizzy wheel while riding to change multiple items....not good. COMPLETELY agree that they took the GS out of the GS....when I did my video on it at the GS Trophy selection competition in the US this past fall it's the first thing I realized - looked like a 310GS on steroids....ha!!....agree on pricing - in the US here if custom one out it's $27-30K....end of the day - I feel they are chasing Ducati instead of stay with the Spirit of the GS....enjoy it...can't wait for more!!!
If you need radars to ride safely, you probably shouldn't be Riding.
You don’t need them but they are nice to have….
Way to much time with your eyes off the road.
Hey TMS! Great video! I did a little research and shopping and the 2023 GS loaded is around 20,400 euros here in the US, converted dollars to euros. That's not cheap but the R1300GS is 24,000 euros (25,590 USD). That's specked out on BMW website. What the dealers actually charge is something else. I'm seeing them in showrooms for 28,000 euros (30,300 USD) here in the US. My 2023 GSA Triple Black was 22,711 euros (24,600 USD). That's the adventure model. It had everything on it except the adaptive headlights and heated seats. I actually wanted both those options but the dealership here did not purchase any GSAs with those two options. I did a search and found some like mine with those two options, but add another 3,000 euros. I chose not to pay that. And the price quoted was the out the door price at this dealership. No dealer price ad ons. It was the MSRP on the sticker. I paid my own tax, title and license fees in my home State. I bought the bike in a different State. All that was around 2,200 USD which is about 2,031 euros. I chose to pay that myself and not have it added into the financing. I paid a nice downpayment up front and got great financing and I'm extremely happy. I certainly do not need anymore power. I'm an older fart and don't need that thrill anymore. And yes, the gearbox is a bit clunky when using the gear assist pro (GAP), however, I did see a video where it was said to get the best use out of the GAP, do not let off on the throttle when shifting. Up or down shifting. I know you want to as we all have learned to let off the throttle when shifting with a clutch. But don't do that using the GAP. I tried that and it was much smoother. Even on more accelerated gear shifts, it wasn't bad at all. But if I let off on the throttle, even a bit, clunk! I think you know this though. So...picking a model, if you want a new one, find a used 2020-2023 GS and go that route. Even a new 2023 is going to be close to 9,000 euros cheaper and it looks great! I still think your 1200 looks great though.
funny enough I live 10mins away from the factory the bikes are made (Berlin, Germany) and the prices here are the highest in comparison. I dont know why, but the shipment costs dont seem to be eating up much from the margin. The dealers here also treat you like youre a no one (no test rides, no deals, no good service).
@@riom5 It’s not much different at a lot of dealerships in the USA either. Back in October of 2016. I went to buy a GS Adventure and the people at that dealership were so rude to me! Dude asked me if I could afford it. I was wearing jeans and a t-shirt. I told him I made $120,000 a year and had $5,000 cash in my pocket. But it would be a cold day in hell if he ever got a penny of it! I went and bought a Harley Davidson FatBoy S about an hour later. But I finally got my GSA this past September. I love both of these bikes. Take care over there! I got to visit Germany twice back in 1995. I was in the Air Force and went there for some training. Ate a ton of Jaeger schnitzel and drank a lot of the famous beers there. Gained about a pound a day! 🤣🤣 It was worth it!
5) Lights fully agree. Dangerous 4) Disagree. Operative word is "Quick" so for use when getting a lick on not bimbling around the highstreet. That is what a clutch is for. 3) Agg yes but better than no adjustment at all. Go with most of us. Set and ride 2) As a non GS rider, I think the looks are great and would actually consider one in this guise. The old one looks like riding a huge topbox. You call it presence. I call it bulk. 1) Price is nuts and remember £4k plus of that 20+k is tax. Also why is PCP 9%? that is mad. On PCP the repayment would be closer to £30k. How can Suzuki PCP be 2.5% and yet BMW is 9% plus? FInance companies are ripping riders off.
Please don’t use the word hate Andy, it’s far too strong a word to use in the context of a motorcycle.
It’s a fair point IMHO - likes and dislikes works for me. There was an explanation within the piece, putting the comments into context about the bike overall, but I really agree with the back lights, complex tech (not just a BMW issue) and the cost! Oh my! 😮 I’m old enough to remember when biking was a cheap form of transport as well as a laugh. Hey ho - first world problems and all that. 😊
It is just a word mate. It has to be said, I farkin hate that it doesn’t have a designated rear stop light. Plus I hate the front end, looks like crap.
Yeah it's just a word no biggy
I would hate those things too. It's a freaking 30k$ bike. Except the looks. I really like the looks.
So is the your Honda Goldwing a fernoomal bike?
Brilliant honest review. Thanks. I just cannot commit to the 1300, so think I'll end up with the 1250, or stick with my 1200. I just don't need all the electronic aids. Another thing I hate is that I have to buy all new panniers, they changed the design.
For item 3 you need to further investigate the options. 2 features can be assigned to the up/down button
My 1300 has been delayed untill March and have now decided to cancel it
Im buying an F750 GS instead
Totally agree with you on the rear lights and front looks
Also the button/ menu layout
The price is way to high
mine came in just short of 23k and controls need back lighting
Great insight… keep up the good work and take care..
Thanks, will do!
The rear light were my biggest grip with my r1250 in the end i fitted weiser tech modules sorted it out ..even done a video on it . As for the price I do wonder is the 1300 gsa will be north of 28k
Yes, those rear lights are just dangerous as far as I am concerned. Agree with you on other points too - nothing wrong with a manual screen height adjuster (cheaper, less to go wrong as well) and as for trying to do all that switch-gear stuff while riding - difficult and dangerous. Be good if you could do a direct comparison between this and, say, a similarly-spec'd Tiger 1200 and/or Multistrada...
I have a R1250 GS (and a 1992 R100GSPD) the lighting set up on the 1300GS for the rear is absolutely shocking all because the need to fit more pish on your motorcyle ie radar etc.I do find the BMW configurator for the GS more of an 'anti configurator' never seem to get the bike I want.Enjoyed your vid .Keep telling it how it is .Thankyou .
The one thing I don't get about the tail lights is that plastic is plastic, one could have integrated the radar antenna into a rear light with no loss of functionality. Why did they choose this setup? I totally agree with you, it's too busy and even looks messy.
Totally agree with your negative points very well said. Its absolutely crazy how BMW keeps giving us features that we dont particularly ask for and they charge us a pretty penny yet the gearbox and quick shifter is still lagging behind
Hate, is a strong word and hardly applicable. Try, things I dislike about..
Things that annoy me a bit about….etc.
BTW I agree with some of your points! Although I like the new headlight and the menu button can be programmed for two features. I’ve found the quick-shifter smoother than the clutched gear change.
But we both should remember that the bikes will loosen up and bed in with time.
Another slight annoyance is that the bash plate under the engine is not a solid plate, it is full of holes, so will need to be removed to properly clean the underside of the bike.
Keep up the good work!!
Real world reviews.
yes, agree with your interpretation of hate. Andy was using dislike at times. So i was assumging that he used hate in the title to attract viewers
Thanks for the show, always appreciated.
I fully agree with you. The 1300 GS is to my humble opinion decadently over-engineered. I watched it myself at the dealer and it didn't attract me at all. If I were in the market for a big Enduro today I'd probably go for the Stelvio and have a lot of cash left for after-market accessories.
I quite like the way the new GS looks. I admit, though, it doesn't look as rugged as the out-going version, but it probably is just as capable. It's a matter of symbolism and there is a long history of making off-road vehicles deliberately unattractive even if they are rarely taken off road. BMW is acknowledging this is primarily a commuting/touring motorcycle.
A fair review Andy, look forward to the next one
Thanks 👍
I spent a few months with the older version 1990s as a co worker went over seas for a holiday in Europe, they are amazing good bikes. But for us cash strugglers in theory for the cost of the new GS you could potentially get two 310 GS and the 310 naked Roadster and jacket and helmet kit all BMW of course.
I it’s sad because they would sell more now the big Harley clones suffer from the same problem. And I must say Harley do as well.
They have priced them selves out of reach of the common man or woman
Great piece..I wonder is there a voice control option coming - as they have in BMW cars (and others) for navigating menus and sat nav etc...
I'm sure we would have been told about it if there were!
Quality vid again, my 1250 te trophy looks significantly more comfortable especially for my pillion. That’s one of the big things that I would look for in your more in depth review……. Comfort for you and Mrs Flyer. Agree on the front too, the outgoing 1250 with adaptive headlight just looks better. Keep up the quality content
We’ll be making a video on pillion comfort soon!
I owned a 2018 GS for 4 years and 40,000 miles. Absolutely loved the bike. Recently sold it and bought a 2018 low mileage RT to try something different while waiting for the 1300GS. I’m not a fan of the RT. But now it seems I can pick up a low mileage or new leftover Tiger 1200 GT Explorer for around 16-17k USD. That’s quite a savings over a 1300GS, similarly equipped. Is the GS eight grand better than the Tiger? Is it better at all??
Hey TMF, love your reviews, would live to see you thoughts on the Nordon 901 Expedition
I agree with all you have to say, had one out for a test ride noticed gear box wines at certain speeds after redesignating the whole thing you would imagine BMW would have got it perfect for the price tag. Have a 23 plate 1250 GSA and was happy to get back on it as it has far more character in my opinion 😉
Exactly my view … pleased to get back on my 1250 after the 1300 test ride.