BMW R1200 GS TE 2016 | Is it still the amazing machine I bought two years ago?
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- čas přidán 25. 06. 2024
- It's about time I told you how I feel about this bike rather than just using it as a tool for all my other videos.
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Just like you I had a few sports bikes, the last, my zx10r for 14 years. Dispite what people will tell ya, I toured the whole of the uk and Europe on it, inc the alps. But at 70 decided I needed a change. At 74 I've had this 2015 GS 18 months, and I Love It !!! It had 15k on it, and was a bit lumpy, now with 19570 on, it just gets better n better. Off to Scotland next .... bring it on 👍
Enjoy Bonny Scotland! 👌🏍️
I've always loved the looks of a BMW. Mine has always caught the eyes of others when on tour. Granted, not all have been winners for comfort. The "retro" bikes remind me of the /5 I had in my younger days. Nice to giggle your memories. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
Thanks John, I think their road presence is unrivalled.
BMW makes a fantastic bike no matter what you ride. I do like the look at that one. I can’t believe no one waives at you on that bike. It’s like you’re on a scooter! Lol!
Damn, it feels like it’s almost time for me to try one. Great video, thanks.
Great bike and an honest review keep up the great vids 👍
Thanks John.
I need to have a go on a GS! The problem is that used versions are so pricey right it’s crazy, never mind $25k for a new one. One day one day.
And personally I don’t like the older ones. There’s a reason they hold their value though. 😜🙏
I'm on my first 1250 GSA and I love it it has amazing road presence. Great review buddy
Thanks Andy and good to hear someone else is enjoying these bikes. 🙏
An honest review Dave. In my younger days I would have been in the "I'll never buy a GS" club but with age comes wisdom I guess and when I do get a bike for doing big miles it will be one of the first I try. Nice little spin you had there too. Looking forward to the next one.
You’ll end up with one yet bud!😜
I have a 2017 Triple Black that I bought almost two years ago. I agree with your assessment, especially the seat. I rode my longest day (532 miles) in October. My hind end stayed comfortable the whole time.
I live in the US’s Pacific Northwest, weather similar to Ireland. But unlike you, I don’t ride much in the winter.
Thanks for the great video!
Dave,
I echo everything you say about the BMW GS. Like you, I’m a ‘back to the bike’ after 35 years. The usual family and living abroad excuses until 2019.
I’ve an immaculate 2016 GSA TE and added every extra and panniers for my touring and Sunday rides. I’ve added 60/40 Conti tyres too, so the boreens’ aren’t an issue😀
As you say, the bike masters everything you can throw at it, so I only need one bike. The bikes a revelation compared to my 1970’s 2 strokes and 1980’s 4 cylinder 4 strokes.
With a few changes, tune and empty Irish roads, I’m getting 350+ miles from my 6 gallon tank 😁
With the recent good weather I’ve managed over 500 miles last week including the Wicklow mountains. The lakes around Blessington were spectacular.
The ‘haters’ are everywhere, although Irish bikers I find better than most. My view is that if intentional, these people’s ignorance reflects their real personalities. We all have different opinions, so don’t stress.
I look forward to the next one.
Cheers
Des
I agree with everything you say there Des and my next set of wellies will defo be a 60/40 split. That’s great mileage you’re getting an a tank there.
@@WheelieGoodTV
Dave
I’ve had the Continental TKC 70s fitted front and back and completed 3.5k miles. Moreover, I’ve ridden in all conditions; even Manchester hail and snow in mid-February with no issues.
Just checked - still over 7mm wear left in the back. Can’t recommend them highly enough, for my riding needs, so worth considering.
Cheers
Des
@@DGBYRNE thanks Des, I’ll check them out now. I really could have done with this combo on the mountain pass series as the Michelin Road 5’s are superb but no so much when I hit the boreen.
Excellent point about BMW charging more for the comfort seats
Actually Yamaha are the worst for it. Drives me insane!
Thanks, and I agree. I went out shopping for an Africa Twin and ended up with an R1200GS (long story). If I could only have one bike, this would be it.
Good to hear we’re in the same club Marco!
Hi from Texas. I have a 2006 1200GS and it’s also the nicest Bike I have ever been on. I don’t have all the Electronics but man is it comfortable. I have a really bad Back, and this is the only Bike I can ride without hurting. That says a Lot about these Bikes. It has all the Power I will really ever need. Down here it gets really Hot Outside in the Summer. I don’t feel any heat from the Engine or the Exhaust. Maybe one day I can get a newer one, but being a Disabled Vet, I can hardly Afford anything. Great Video and Thanks for the Review. I agree with you.👍😁
Thanks bud, sounds like you’ve found the perfect bike!😜👍
Very Special bikes Dave as you’re clearly aware. We are very lucky aren’t we to have all these choices
Very lucky mate.🍀
Yes I totally agree I have 2017 GSA trouble black. It’s all the bike you need and I way more than I can exploit. I use it to commute to Dublin from Louth, great presence on the Motor way, I know that the 1250,s have more power etc but the changes are only incremental and for me do not warrant the step up. Great vid as always.
Thanks John, yes I really couldn’t justify a step up to the 1250 although when the 1300/1400 models are released I have no doubt I’ll be back at the credit union!🫣
Bmw Lovely Machine..
Have a 1250 adventure
2020....loving every moment
110.000km on clock.
Bought brand new...
Beauty Machine ....
I’ve been looking at upgrading to your model but I’ll hold out for the new model announcement next year and check prices etc. 👍🏍
Cracking feedback on the mighty GS Dave , I truly think as us bikers get older it`s more about comfort and practicality , bit like how we start to dress in our late 40s early 50s 🤣🤣🤣🤣 , No one can honestly say the GS is not one of the best (if not the best) all round bikes out there love them or hate them I think they will be around for a while , hope all is well with you buddy 👍
Exactly my sentiment Dale. Cheers bud. 🏍🙏
I'll wave at you! (GSA rider...).
Greetings from Canada Dave, viewing this in Toronto Airport while waiting for our connecting flight to Calgary. Sadly my seat on the 1250 adventure is a pain in ass. Had a gel pad and denser foam fitted which helps. You can try mine when I eventuaklly make it over before Christmas. The larger tank gives over 300 miles. Still like it and its so well balanced. Be well and ride safe. TrEv
Interesting Trev, also more ammunition why I shouldn’t upgrade just yet. See ya soon man.🤞🎥
I had a zzr1400 before the gs1200 and I just got back from a 1400 mile trip from UK on ferry to Germany and then back home. I would never have wanted to do that on the zzr. You can put all your luggage on it ride in comfort and it still sits at 90 all day on the motorway. I had it cruising at over 100 but if you go to about 120 with luggage it does start to have a bit a weave on it and best to let off the gas. Otherwise stonking bike and I would have another when the one I have now is ready for the knackers yard
That’s a long trip! 🏍
hi Dave. excellent review .I also have a 2016 triple black with 39000 wonderful miles and i hope to put on a lot more before the year is out :)
Good to hear Eddie. I’m heading away on mine tomorrow for 4 days making some more vids and just can’t wait. 🫣🏍
Hi Dave, enjoy the channel, cracking gs you've got. I had a triple black 1200 for 6 years then changed to a 1250 GS exclusive adventure a year ago. Give one a try, you won't believe the difference. Keep the videos coming and stay safe.
Thanks George, funny I’m actually waiting for the 1300/1400GS release and I thought it was going to happen last week at Eicma but no show. I love the look of your bike but because I’m so in love with mine I’m not sure I’d see a big enough difference?? I’m going to have to do something with mine soon though as I’m trotting up the miles on her.🤔🤔👍🏍
Can you show mount on left mirror and where can you get it from love the channel
I traded my gen 3 Triumph Tiger for a new GS just over a year ago. Triple Black TE which I’ve added engine bars, Nav 6 (because the sat nav prep stares at you saying buy me 😂) and more recently auxiliary lights. Lot of money. But , I absolutely love it, best bike in the world and it is a keeper for sure. By the way, heated grips and seat are nuclear for winter riding.
Agree with everything you say Mark. 🙏👌🏍🏍
Sterling review mate I've had my GS for just over a month and it really is a workhorse I did wonder if I'd find it too cumbersome but somehow even with the weight it just isn't, love the content always look forward to more 🤌
Thanks buddy. 👍🏍
I've always used my left hand to wind the screen up and down on each of my GS' The 1250 is even better, maybe not worth changing just for change sake but definitely an improvement. Try the GSA, it's more cosseting but not as nimble as a standard GS from what I understand (at 5'7" short and the wrong side of 60 it's too big for me) As you say if Heineken made bikes......
👍🏍
My panniers & top box for my V Strom are hanging in the garage and spend 99% of the time there and the last time they were down On the 30th may I loaded them up for doing the NC500 on the 2nd of June then decided I’d quickly tidy the garage when a 2lb lump hammer I set up onto the bench decided to jump back off and land on my left hand that was flat on the floor 🤦🏻♂️ A trip to A&E and a fractured metacarpal later ment I could only wave my mates off from the car as they headed to Belfast for the boat on the Thursday morning 😭 and the last few days In may next year I’m wrapping myself in bubble wrap so I’ll definitely make the Lake District tour we’ve planned 🤣🏍💨
Oh God I feel you pain Trevor (not literally though)! I couldn’t imagine not being on a bike for that long. I’m currently away on business for three weeks and I’m like a crocodile with a sore tooth because I’m totally addicted to my two wheel fix. Take care mate.
Great bike, I ❤ my GSA, 30ltr tank with a 300 mile range, it’s the ideal lazy bastards bike, fill up once and travel all day 👍😂😂😂 I’m in Conemarra in June in mine, can’t wait. Thanks for the great vids 🤘🏻
Good man! I’m jealous already!
The triple black would be my choice ! never been a fan of the boxer engine really but in the GS range somehow to me it works looks wise , I have been thinking about one for next year but it would need to be a used one as new would just be to much money fer me . Do you find that you have to go to BMW for servicing since these do have all sorts of electronics to plug in so I assume that what ya can do for yourself in limited by home equipment . The choices these days are amazing and choosing is soo difficult , I give a wave to all bikes but these days the response is somewhat patchy . I will say my next bike will likely be my last since I'm officially old 🤣thanks for sharing this 👌👍
I avoided a BMW main dealer last year to save a few quid and then ended up getting screwed off my local bike shop who won’t be getting my custom again. I’m putting it in next month for the drive shaft valve recall with a main dealer so will be getting it serviced with them also. The price isn’t too bad really and you’ll only save €100 or thereabouts by going to a bike shop. I might stand to be corrected but I’ll have to see. I’m afraid I don’t know enough about bike maintenance to service a BMW myself but I know many guys who do.
@@WheelieGoodTV 👍 Thanks would be interested to see how you do with the main dealer .
Hi Dave, Nice review and yes probably the best 'do it all' bike on the road. Never tried a pre-LC model though. 🤔 Couldn't read the dials any more ony 2014 and traded to a TFT (last of the 1200's) in 2018. Like you say, it's a 'go to' bike for either a quick run or hitting the passes whereas my wife hates hit as a pillion. (That bike is called an RT - she was spoiled by having two pan europeans)
Off road? No chance for such an expensive bike. The seat is good but for long runs I use a sheepskin cover. Keeps cool in summer and warm in winter and is better than the airseat in my opinion. Swapped out the plastic panniers for Kriega soft bags, much lighter and easier to load. The metal panniers on the GSA are lighter than the plastic ones!
Final note, even Harley riders wave back where I live. A biker is a biker!
Cheers from South West France.
I like that sheepskin seat idea! Are you based in South West France? I’m planning a long trip in 2024 which takes me through there.
50 km west of Toulouse, in the Gers. About 2 hrs from the Col du Tourmalet. Great riding close by and of course in the Pyrenees.
I have a Concours14 ( I’ve had an FJ1200 & a FJR1300)I’m thinking about trading for a ‘14 R1200GS(had an ‘10 R1200GS). Your big and heavy comment certainly applies for the big sport tourers, fast and fun but the older I get the more I want something I move around the garage easier. Rode my old Gs to Maine & back(2700 mile trip) several
Years ago and she was such a great tourer. Still thinking about it.. great review.
Thanks John, yes I’m so glad I sold the FJR now although I miss that engine! The GS ticks every box for me, I love it. 👍🏍
@@WheelieGoodTV I do love the big four cylinder’s turbine-like rush of power.. it’s so addictive. 😀
Hi, Just checking this Video out again. I think BMW put the Windshield Adjustment on the Right Side for Safety. If you’re Traveling 60MPH and look down for just One Second, you’ve Traveled 88 Feet without looking at the Road. So if you’re Slowing down to Adjust the Windshield, it just means you’ve Traveled less as Far. Who knows though, it would be nicer on the Left.
That makes a lot of sense actually. Appreciate you sharing. 👍🏍
Great review Dave ( I’m sold) send it to joe Duffy bmw they may make you brand ambassador and maybe give you a long termer 🤫👍👍
🤣Cheers Tony. 🙏
I want one......
My wife reckons I might be safer on a GS1250 than the bike I'm on now!!
She is totally correct!👍🏍
Dave, just wondering what boots you’re wearing on the bike in this video?
Hi Geoff, they are Forma Adventure boots. They’re superb…..and affordable! Here’s the link. www.louis.ie/en/forma-adventure-dry-boots-219768?partner=googlesea-ir&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIoazwlZ-BgAMVQ-ftCh04ZwGwEAQYASABEgJyL_D_BwE&filter_article_number=21976841
I’m in the same boat. Just sold my fjr and have been looking at BMWs. Surprised to hear you say the windscreen is manually adjusted. Just wondering how many miles (Kms) are too many for a used r1200gs?
Not sure but my front and rear suspension just went with only 20K miles which is nothing really. I’m a little scared now in case this starts to cost me money.😬
I think these “heavy” bikes go through fork seals on a regular basis. I had to replace mine (on the fjr) three times before thirty thousand miles. The first two times I took it to the dealership. They said they knew what they were doing, but I think they just had kids take apart and reassemble the front forks. I found a gentleman who specializes in working on motorcycle suspensions. He did a masterful job. It really pays to find somebody who specializes in this kind of work. This was recently done and his fees were only US$300. I gave them a tip because I couldn’t believe how inexpensive he was. I think it pays dividends to Not ride the bike to its limits.
Bigger bike snobbery on Biker,ie!
Can you recommend a UK biker forum other than Faceless?
I know what you mean. The few groups I’m on seem to have an element of snobbery which I just run like hell from.
Why do some riders not acknowledge or wave? I just assume it is due to jealousy.
Well said Dave!But!it makes me wonder why BMW with our 20000€ gives us a comfy seat etc,but the worst driveshaft! Can you really compare the quality between the fjr,tenere or even honda's crosstourer?
Thanks man, I know what you mean but seriously I’d take a GS over anything else. My bikes going in next month for the drive shaft recall