R1200GS / R1250GS | Complete Buyer's Guide [2005-2020]
Vložit
- čas přidán 1. 06. 2024
- GS vs GSA:
• BMW GS vs. GSA | The...
The R1200GS is the most popular large adventure bike worldwide. In this buyer's guide, I break down the details of each generation and yearly changes since 2005. If you are shopping for a new or used R1200GS or R1250GS, this is the video you need to watch to understand the details of the changes they have made since 2005.
Let me know what other buyer's guides you would find useful. Thanks for your support.
🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY SHOPPING AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN AND REVZILLA USING THE LINKS BELOW:
⚠️Rocky Mountain: bit.ly/33kgRIz
⚠️Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN
⚠️Merchandise ! : big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/
⚠️Patreon: / bigrockmedia
🏍 My Riding Gear:
⚡ No-Stink Merino Wool Riding Socks (amazing): bit.ly/31yihhV
⚡ Wool base Layer Shirt: imp.i104546.net/jW55Bn
⚡ Wool base Layer Pants: imp.i104546.net/9W99rQ
⚡ Balaclava: imp.i104546.net/oeGGBY
⚡ Garmin inReach Communicator: bit.ly/3ybN1Bc
⚡ Klim Baja Jacket: imp.i104546.net/oeGVN9
⚡ Klim Baja Pants: bit.ly/3pH061g
⚡ Klim Carlsbad Jacket: imp.i104546.net/BXGB5L
⚡ Klim Carlsbad Pants: imp.i104546.net/za0RzM
⚡ Klim Krios Pro Helmet: imp.i104546.net/WD9gOM
⚡ Klim Baja Gloves: imp.i104546.net/0Jn2GV
⚡ Klim Adventure GTX Gloves: imp.i104546.net/Eax204
⚡ Sidi Adventure 2 Goretex Boots: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx
⚡ Sidi Crossfire 3 Boots: bit.ly/3dxtlhr
⚡ HJC Dual Sport Helmet: bit.ly/3pBaW9i
⚡ Fox V-1 Dirt Helmet: bit.ly/3dyhKPg
⚡ Moose Body Armor: bit.ly/3IuoTyn
⚡ Klim Jersey: bit.ly/3DFJlsm
🏍 Camping & Other:
⚡ Camp Chair: bit.ly/3GqL5HP
⚡ Jump Starter/USB Charger: bit.ly/3y4CdVn
⚡ Folding Utensils:bit.ly/3Iwh3UK
⚡ Jetboil:bit.ly/3rNaE1N
⚡ MSR Stove: bit.ly/3dz3rtG
🏍 Motorcycle Accessories:
⚡Tail Bag (Small): imp.i104546.net/VyQQdk
⚡Tail Bag (Large): imp.i104546.net/XxrrEM
⚡Puig Windshield Visor: imp.i104546.net/ORazYN
⚡Garmin Zumo XT GPS: bit.ly/3EGY4Vi
⚡Barkbuster Handguards: bit.ly/3IvwKvu
⚡Motoz Dual Venture Front Tire: bit.ly/3oBBoAa
⚡Motoz Rallz Rear Tire: bit.ly/3pyfhdc
⚡BMW Denali CANBUS Controller: imp.i104546.net/vn00mN
⚡(GS) Denali D4 Lights: imp.i104546.net/kjkkAv
⚡(GS) Quick Lock Tank Bag: imp.i104546.net/x9mmoO
⚡(GS) Quick Lock Tank Mount: imp.i104546.net/rn00WB
⚡Tusk Skid Plate: bit.ly/3Ix72GR
⚡Tusk Crash Bars: bit.ly/3DCHa95
⚡Tusk Olympus Tank Bag: bit.ly/3yfaQbi
⚡Tusk Highland X2 Rackless Luggage: bit.ly/31FVUXN
⚡Tusk Pannier Rack: bit.ly/3rObMCi
⚡Tusk Olympus Panniers: bit.ly/3lLUHVG
⚡Tusk Oly Panniers/Rack Combo (savings): bit.ly/3y6mWmQ
⚡Tusk Top Rack Only: bit.ly/3GpPNp7
⚡Thumper Jockey LED Lights: bit.ly/3lOaCTn
⚡ GPS Mount:bit.ly/3oCUCFO
⚡T7 Windshield Adjuster: bit.ly/3rRLEGv
⚡Traverse Dual Sport Saddlebags: bit.ly/336oAtf
⚡Tusk Handguards:bit.ly/3y5g4WM
⚡Tusk Lithium Battery: bit.ly/3DB4Kms
⚡Tusk Brake Guard: bit.ly/3pH9mT6
⚠️Welcome to Big Rock Moto
⚠️Subscribe and hit the bell, thumbs up, and leave comments
⚠️My other channel: / @bigrockoutdoors1
⚠️Contact: info@bigrockmedia.net
⚠️Facebook: / bigrockmoto
⚠️Instagram: / bigrockmoto - Auta a dopravní prostředky
🏍 Support Big Rock Moto! Shop at Revzilla and Rocky Mountain ATV/MC using my links!
⚠ Revzilla : imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN
⚠ Rocky Mountain : bit.ly/33kgRIz
Ian, you must have saved the world a lot of time collectively by cramming all that information in this video. Thank you.
No problem
I am currently shopping for a GS and this is the BEST, most informative review of 2005-present GS models! Invaluable.Thank you!
Same here.
Great summary BUT the 2010 to 2013 cam head bikes had a lot more important updates than outlined here. The clutch was updated to over one a common problem with the thrust bearings on earlier models. The gear shift was also much improved and could be called slick - certainly MUCH better then the later liquid cooled bikes. Also the rear final drive unit got 2 updates (the last being the 2012 model year) which over came many of the weaknesses of earlier models. Finally, the troublesome fuel strip was finally replaced with a good old float in 2012 I think…although BMW have just released a fix for the strip. So, if you can go for a 2012 or 13 for a GSA. Folks also commented on the cost of shock replacement which is high. BMW will tell you they cannot be reconditioned which will rubbish. There are any number of shops in the US/UK and Europe that I am aware of which will rebuild and ESA shock for about £150 and give you a better valves shock back.
Hey there! Just to let you know, I Just bought a 2007 GS to replace my '04 with 80k. One of the reason I picked this year is that it does Not have servo brakes. Just FYI.
Ian, thanks a million for this video, I just bought a 2014 low mileage (22k miles) R1200GSA following your advice! I was really worried by the weight and size but the bike handles so much easier than I expected on and off-road! Unless you do rock climbing or single track trails this bike is great, even an amateur like me can take it almost anywhere! Thanks again for the advice!
Ian I have to say you are born to do this and a million other things I’m sure but this, for sure!
Most informative, no bull, cram packed presentation(s) available on CZcams.
You are the model for all other testimonial/tutorials. Thankyou and keep on truckin on!!
Hi Ian just a small note, the 2007 model does not have servo brakes. Only 2005, 06 ran this system. So I feel if you are an enthusiast and wanted to dodge the electrics and possible servo issues the 2007 model might be the go to model. Personally I love the analogue gauges. Perhaps it’s an old man thing but as your reflexes slow and sight dwindle etc it’s nice to look down and perhaps through familiarity etc you spot rpm and speed fairly instantly.
Can confirm this, having owned a '07. Targeted it for being freed of it while still being the most lightweight GS. :)
Yes imo best is to have modern screen with all info and analogue rpm counter, optionally also speedo
Yup...just bought a 2007 with 25000km's on, I'm the second owner, and I asked the previous owner about the servos, he confirmed and have a note from BMW that the 2007 is servo free, look for the big holes on the slip ring on the left disc, servo brakes have small holes
Hi Ian great video. Owned several GS the first was a 2009 then I exchanged it for Honda CrossTourer DCT as I wanted a newer bike. Big big mistake because it was so heavy and after only a few months of ownership I exchanged it for a 2008 GS. Yes BMW really do need to make sure they don't make their bikes too heavy.
So I had in the space of several months ended up with an older bike. But the advantage with that was I now had a bike without ESA and no Tyre Pressure Monitors. One of those cost me £250 to replace because of incompetent tyre fitter. Yes its great to have all the fancy technology but boy if it goes wrong your talking lots of money to get it repaired. Thats probably why so many still love the 1100cc & 1150cc.All that said after over 50 yeas of riding bikes tw0 three & four cylinders its the Boxer motor for me every time. Stay safe.
I think the servo brakes were only 2005-2006. This is why the 2007 is special. The GSA camhead carried thru until 2013. LC GSA started in 2014. Big drawback to 2010 and earlier is the fuel strip for the gas gage. 2011 they changed to a reliable float. Thx for bringing this together.
I love my 07 1200 gs. I know I would appreciate a 1250 if I tried one, but the lower weight, and significantly lower cost of the used 07 I purchased makes me happy 😊. Thanks for making the videos, Ian. We appreciate the time and love you’ve put into creating them 👍🏼
I’ve had both. An ‘07 oil cooled like yours and a ‘14 liquid cooled. Nothing wrong with the LC but I sure wish I’d held on to the ‘07. Other than not being as fast, I liked it better in every way. It just had a certain intangible je ne sais quoi. Felt like it was carved out of a single block of Teutonic alloy. The ‘14 does everything right but just feels like a soulless Japanesque appliance thing.
I recently bought a 2007 1200 GS with 85,000 miles on it. It runs like new, and I actually prefer it to my buddy's 2021 1250. It's simpler, and I have never felt like it needs more power.
Made me smile when you were clearly going to mention Long way rou.... then cut! 😀
I am looking for an air/oil head GS. Most likely will be focusing on 2010-12 models .
Thanks for this very comprehensive presentation
This is DOPE! EXACTLY what i was searching for :) thanks mate
So glad to find your video. It helps me a lot to make decision to buy which model of GS.... great work!
Thanks. Just bought a 2019 R1250GS based on this. Fingers crossed!
Brilliant, smart, concise technical input & commentary- fun / entertaining as usual...'big hello' from here in North-West England, UK, we love you 'Big Rock'!
Great video! I've been going back and forth with which GS to buy and this is giving me a one-stop resource to go back and compare the models!! Thanks!
I would love a buyers guide to the 700/50 and 800/50 buyers guide:)
Yes, so very useful, thank you! It’s also fun to see how your production quality has improved over the years. We’ll done!
This is the only comparative video about the evolution of the GS. Simple and to the point. Thank you
Fantastic review. You just made life a whole lot easier for me. All I need to do is work on my budget. Thank you so much 🙏🏽
Great and informative video as always Ian, keep it up! Not really a BMW rider myself but always a pleasure to watch.
Thanks for your great effort! Very informative! What do you do for a living? You got so many vehicles in your garage! Keep on the good work! 👍
This is a great buyer's guide. I learned a lot about the GS. I feel that a GS or GSA may be in my future. This is also an interesting historical piece. Bravo!
This was spot on! Very useful indeed. I am feel better informed and the length of time spent watching your video is chump change compared to the wealth of information you provided. Cheers!
Outstanding job once again with your information. Helps for future decisions in my purchase. Thanks for what you do! Good job young man.
Great video Ian! The definitive guide that everyone has been waiting for. I took weeks to do all my research and decide on a lightly used 2017.5 GS. I did consider the 1250, but a lightly used 2017.5 is the best value at the moment. I was able to buy one with thousands of dollars worth of accessories, on-road use only and only 10,000 miles for about $7000 less than a lightly used 2019 with no options. Keep up the great work!
Another easy way to check if a 2017 model has the 2017.5 upgrades is that colored circle inside the speedo and tacho is blue.
Nice! congrats. I'm looking for the same, for the same reasons.
@@kee7678 this is my first GS and I'm really enjoying it. I keep asking myself why I waited so long to finally get one of these outstanding bikes.
@@astrobusa I asked my friend who owns a 2016 for his opinion and he said the same thing. "Wished he had bought one sooner."
@@ektalon1 .... I totally agree
Man you just saved me a lot of time and heartache about what model GS to get… thanks and great video
Thank you for this video. I really enjoyed it. Seriously the best video I've seen comparing them.
Just got a 2017 Rallye and it’s the best bike I’ve ever seen or ridden. Thanks for this guide Ian!
I am looking at purchasing one in a few months. I can afford the new GSA but was browsing for deals on used bikes. This video has been most informative. Thank you.
Fantastic video! Excellent content and detail level. Thanks for your effort!
A really informative video that nicely summarizes the nuances between the model generations. Could you make a video about the options and trim level packages for the 17.5-2020 bikes?
The motorcycle generally regarded as the world's finest deserves a fantastic and ranging video like this. Terrific job thoroughly, yet briefly taking us through this history. Beyond useful for us experienced riders considering our first GS. Thank you.
Thanks Ian for your honest opinion. Really enjoy your clips.👍👍👍
I'm looking to get a GS and this vid has been so helpful thankyou!
Very informative video, thanks. 👍👍 Having owned a 2006 GSA, then a 2017 and now a 2019 1250 GSA, I agree with many of the points you raised. That brake servo was a pain in the ass!!!
Brilliant and Thanks very much for taking the time and effort to produce this very informative Blog.
Thank you from Australia, your guide helped me select a model with confidence. Picked up a 2010 R1200gs with under 50,000Ks on the clock in near pristine condition.
Thank you for the informative breakdown of the recent models
Thanks for the video! Nice to get all that GS info in under 30 mins!
Great content, Ian! After a 25 year break in riding I got back into the game on a BMW650GS. Loved it and it convinced me of the BMW two wheel quality. It was a great bike, but I wanted a little better off road capability for my skill level (low). After trying to find an ADV/Dual Sport through most of 2021 I finally gave up on the idea and decided to have a dedicated road bike and an off road MC. Am now the proud owner of a 2007 R1200RT and a 2004 KTM 200 two stroke for $6500 combined. The RT is amazingly comfortable, and concur that cruise control and adjustable windscreens are the bomb! As for the KTM… it still scares the crap out of me and I love it.
This is probably the best breakdown of any bike I have seen. Thank you for taking the time to make this
Glad you enjoyed it!
always a pleasure to watch your videos thank you for all the great info
Great video. I am one that is interested in buying a GS. You did touch on some things that have me concerned about buying one. The servo brakes are scary. The dry clutch and taking the whole thing apart to replace it is crazy probably a 3k fix. The rear shock problem in recent years. I think it's obvious most bikes including this one has a lot to offer. I just want to make sure there is no crazy expensive problems to incur. So this is some food for thought as you go forward. Love your channel and hope things get straightened out soon. Thanks Mark
I just wanted to swing by this video again and say thank you for creating it. I used it as a guide for which model to buy when I wanted to see what the ADV thing was all about w/o spending a ton of money. I got a 2008 with 25k miles about 18 months ago, and I've ridden it all over CA and the western states while adding various accessories for safety and utility. Every time I ride it puts a smile on my face. I seldom ride just for fun, so this bike being a do everything is perfect for me. I'm next planning for a Honda or Kawi 300 dual purpose in spring or summer, and I'll be using your experiences as a guide again.
Great review, very informative and I think you covered almost every important aspect when choosing your next machine, I was wondering what is it like to manoeuvre in and out of your garage or pushing it back in and out of tight car parking spaces, as I have to do that twice a day and I haven’t seen anyone mention this yet? But ace review, I just need to take one out and try it physically myself I think.
Thanks so much for this video. This info is exactly what I’ve been looking for during my GS search
great review. considering a GS and this gives me the info needed to make an informed purchase
Wow, great summary and overview Ian. Thanks! Most of us have gained more weight than the GS over time!
Excellent
Very informative answering a lot of questions that I had 👍
In 2019 my son in-law gave me a 05 1200 GS with only 1700 miles in it. It was in a climate controlled hanger with other toys but it had regular service done on it.
I love this bike! I do my own maintenance but the two things I don't like is the LCD as that it's hard to read in sunlight. Second is the servo breaks because there very touchy and they require specialized service every 2 years. I do it every year just to play it safe.
Wonderful video, I've watched it several times.
Thanks
Great video! Plenty of information.
Since you have a great knowledge on these GS’s, can you make one video like this talking about the R1100 and R1150’s?
I really appreciate this video as I've viewed it several times as I'm considering a change from my streetglide, which I love, to a more versatile BMW. I don't want to spend a lot of time on those gravel roads, but I want that option. Thanks again
Great video, thanks for the review. I am considering buying a GSA, and with your help, many questions have been answered. Good winds!!!!
Glad it was helpful!
Very informative and extremely helpful as I am deciding on whether to go used or new regarding the GSA/GS. Thanks for the video, much appreciated.
No worries
Great info. I bought my 2013 purely on the basis of it having a wet clutch. I do all my own maintenance and couldn’t put myself through the possibility of having to change a dry clutch…lol.
This is a superbly informative video, you did your research and created well-formatted tables. Those visuals are hugely helpful to punctuate your points about 1) each generation 2) all-up. I believe your pros and cons were well-balanced, too. My history with GS's is amusing: zero ownership, but a rental for 2,700 miles (!) and more than three weeks, 2K dirt and 700 pavement (roughly), in SA, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. With a group including Charley Boorman and Billy Ward, no less (a long story)...two guys you need to be with to learn how to ride this bike quickly. And ride it FAST yet not recklessly, see what it can really do on good gravel roads, marginal gravel roads, sand, and good trails. Some years later, I'm inches from buying a 1250. Your comments pretty much seal the deal. Thanks a million, Subscribed.
Ian, I really like your reviews. Thanks
Loved the Vid. Just what I was looking for. Thanks!
Thank you very much. You just saved me hours or research. Very well presented too.
Great video! You did not mention the last year for a 'keyed ignition'...I have no desire for any other starting system, thank you!
Great video, tonnes of work gone into it, thank you 👍🏻 👍🏻 👍🏻
Very good job👍👏Recently I change my 2005 Gs to a2008 Gs. Your remarks are accurate. Very good video. 👍👏🇬🇷
This was well done and properly done... thanks for taking the time for such a quality presentation.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Really appreciate the work you put into this. I must however note one factual error: you said that the use of the servo braking system extended to 2007 when in fact the use of that system ended in 2006. I own a 2007 and it uses standard ABS braking. The brakes are linked, but they do not use the servo system.
Great video thank you. At the end you mention that there are several other adventure bikes as good as the GS. Would you care to mention some? Thanks
Good appraisal. Just to note I have a late 2007 model. It does NOT have the servo assisted brakes that the 05-06 has.
Yes, I was going to mention that as well. I have an ‘07 GSA ABS and it doesn’t have the dreaded servo brakes.
Great video I had a 7 gsa loved for 10 years, I didn’t even know they had a wet clutch now I’m thinking of going gs or gsa in 2021 this had helped a lot it would be great if you could do a in-depth difference video on a GS/ GSA 👍👍👍
Great help and information! I am just getting into BMW's bikes and a GS200/1250 are on my radar. Now I feel like I can make a much better decision. Thanks for taking the time to put this together.
Glad to help!
Great video, really good information.. are you going to make one from de 800GS? it will be appreciated
Your channel has swung me...I sold my last street bike 8 years ago, when my wife was pregnant with our first child...your riding with kids video convinced me that it's time to get another bike.
I've always been a cruiser guy, but have always ridden dirt bikes also. A few weeks ago I began looking at Harley's, bit6 you swung me to search out a BMW R1200GSA.
I've located a 2015 and planning to go look at it next week.
Thanks for all of your content, your videos are always well thought out and professional!
Thank you Ian for the effort put into this video. I own a 2010 camhead and always look to the newer R1200/R1250 but didn't figure out the exact differences with them. My GSA is in the limit of the weight I can manage comfortably so I guess I'll stick to it for a while. Cheers from Spain.
Thanks
Great report as always!! Regards from Buenos Aires
Great job on this overview.. yes, once you have had the cruise control- you just want it again. I currently own the R 1200 GS WC 2013 - it is super, now with 68.0k on it. I’ve done 1,000 miles in a day traveling to Idaho & Canada from the country of Texas. I had a 2003 K 1200 GT before this bike - it got me hooked on the cruise control & was a great bike - put 80.0k on it but started to get uptight about the servo - jumped into the GS in 2014. I almost got rid of The 2013 R 1200 GS WC because of the stalling at low speeds - very dangerous. I found out it was just too lean a mixture at low RPM’s - installed a device for about $100.00 the makes it a little richer at low RPM’s & the bike has been great. Thanks for your good reviews - good job on the trailer reviews too! I’m looking at a Big Foot or Escape - did you consider those two? Thanks
Very informative content mate. I will be changing my 2014 vstrom 1000 for a 1200/1250 GS in the near future, and I will certainly take a look at a '17/18 model. A few grand saved would be a bonus. Thanks again mate, subbed.
Another excellent video, thanks for sharing. I think I will be looking for a 1250. Cheers
Very informative, great knowledge to have. Thanks
Thanks for Making this. I am looking
For an air GS and this solidified what I thought! Ride Safe
No problem
Found this tremendously useful. Thanks.
Thank you for this matey, exactly what I needed. Just about to buy the 2018 GS.
great choice ride safe
I ride a 13' GSA. The last oil cooled GSA. Does not have ASC (traction control) but never felt I needed it. I do miss the cruise control, but have the Kaoko throttle lock which is good enough. I love the grunt on the low revs. I have never felt under power on the street. Must agree with the crank case quite rough . I am still keeping this one for several more years before upgrading. The ESA works very well. Nice weight, lots of service history. The best bike I have owned so far.
Not bad and well explained overall.
I have a 2017 BMW R1200GS Rallye here in OZ (Developed here in OZ for our Fink River Rally by BMW Melbourne)
However you seem to have forgotten about in 2013 when they fully upgraded to the 1200cc water cooled engine that they also relocated the shaft drive to the LHS of the bike in an attempt to opposed the centrifugal forces in the engine so on power up or down the bike tends to "rock" much less due to the Boxer engine configuration disadvantage.
From the Land of OZ
bravo, super informative, im personally on the brink between the 1200 and 1250, thanks for the effort the video is well done!
Thanks for watching!
Wow... impressive video! THX for that.
Is overheating in summer conditions in a trafficjam / stop & go stuff a thing..?
All ready have two bikes, but definitely itching for the GSA hence I am taller older guy. One of the best information buying guide. Thanks. 1250 GSA RED with WHITE OR BLACK, I am game. Thanks again. I like the extra weight, better on the freeway. Most GS riders don’t use them off road as much.
Really really good video, watched it in its entirety. Great job.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I had the budget and what was for sale last month a 2007 gsa or a 2009gs. I went for the gs and thanks to your video I know I made the right choice 👍🏼
Sometimes you sound just like Kipp from Napoleon Dynamite and I like to think that the marriage to Lafawnda has really been a success and now here you are giving us encyclopedic motorbike knowledge. Nice.
Thank you for the video. You've done a good job!
I have the 2020 r1250gsa and I am in love.....
So versatile and nimble when moving!! Great history👍
When I first drove my GSA I was astonished how easy it was to drive it, like a bicycle!! When stopped it's like moving a dead whale, but when you start moving... Unbelievable!👍
I do wish you would have mentioned the drive shaft issues, I have an 08 that has had no problems but I know they made improvements but not sure what years.
Great informative video, thanks
Well done! I was looking for a video like that, I am sure to take the 1250 now🙂
Great vid & content, really useful for my future GS purchase! Thanks and keep it up
no problem enjoy your GS!
This is a refreshing video and you have gone to a lot of trouble of assisting those that may need this info.Congratulations on this fine effort.Thank you.JHB-SA.
Enjoyed the review. Hoping to get the same break down for the 850 HE Adventure. Have heard decent comments on this motorcycle but would enjoy hearing your opinion as well.
Thanks again for this video. I keep coming back.
Appreciate you putting this together.
What a great video! I have a 2019 Africa twin that I love but Im getting older (mid 40s) and looking for more comfort on our bumpy roads…I cant get myself to consider a goldwing, so this 1250gsa should be the next best thing :)