Which is best for you? Triumph Tiger 1200 GT vs. Tiger 1200 Rally
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- čas přidán 13. 02. 2023
- Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Review - Better than the Rally? Some time ago I rode the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally, but as a road rider is that the best option for me?? Here's my thoughts on the more road focussed GT version of the bike.
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I bought the GT Explorer last summer and, alas, have had nothing but trouble with it. The bike, when it works properly is fantastic; fast, comfortable, looks great, practical etc BUT a recurring issue with the clutch has seen it recovered 3 times. It was averaging 800 miles between breakdowns. Triumph have been rather sheepish about it, but from what I can tell, they are aware of an issue that allows air into the hydraulic system and causes this problem. It was back in a couple of weeks ago and they changed just about the whole system so I'm hoping that'll resolve it, but just this morning on the way to work the clutch lever seems heavy and not quite right. It might be paranoia, but 3 breakdowns in 6 months will do that to you. It's a real shame because its taken the shine off owning the bike.
Oh dear, sorry to hear of your troubles and I bet it has sullied the experience - hope things improve for you!
@@TheMissendenFlyer It really has. It was between the Multistrada and Tiger and I went for the Tiger because the fuel consumption and range on the Multi seems 'challenging'. This has been challenging in a different and unexpected way!
I've had my Rally Explorer for just on six months with 7k + kms on it from new.
My first adventure bike.
Loves ... comfort, tech, fuel range (epic), looks
Not so much loves ... weight (but only when its on its side 😔), OEM tires (rear is pretty much ready for replacement), upcoming service costs (a lot of plastic has to come off to get to the engine).
The bike is so confidence inspiring. Great handling on and off road, amazing brakes and the tech is so easy to use and customise.
As for the dive - you adapt.
As for the sound - totally intoxicating. The note starts to change at 5k and by 8k is wailing 😎
This bike is the one that actually got my attention. Looks on point,great engine.
I think the years that Triumph was unreliable is far gone.
I would definitely consider one .
It's neck to neck with my favourite bike ever ,the Africa Twin 1100
Good review,I have had test run on both models and I do like the GT more,could be my next bike. Cheers Manxman 🇮🇲👍
Feel like you're spoiling us with more content than usual Andy, I'm here for it
Hehe - I’m glad you feel spoiled!
Thanks Andy great review and comparison with the Rally version. I currently have a 10 year old Tiger explorer 1200 which has served me well alas soon to be traded for this exact bike. Very much looking forward too it 👍
Good choice!
Enjoyed your review as always TMF. Judging by the greenery must have been a while since you filmed this. Can't wait for the weather to improve again. Spring nearly here. 😁
Yes it was back half of last year - can't remember exactly when....but as you say, the leaves are a give away!
Brilliant vid as always Andy, I have the Rally version as i go off road on occasions, its horses for courses I think.
Always worth watching you,wether it's my kind of bike or not .still a good watch thanks 👍
I appreciate that thanks Simon...
Looks pretty good Andy and as blue is my colour of choice usually , it would be nice to have and even the silencer didn't look overly large either my only gripe is those front downpipes look tatty as new I reckon black wood look a whole lot better ceramic coated or something like that .Cool 👍
I have a carbon copy of the bike you reviewed. I really wanted it in black, but models were scarce in February of 2022, it looks great in blue.
I absolutely LOVE IT!!!
Great review.
I’m in the U.S. with a multitude of scenic locals to take in while your ticking the miles off.
thank you for justifying the ungodly amount of money I payed for mine lol
P.S. you might keep in mind that my 1st break-in service was 600 miles and the next Factory service isn’t due until 10,000 miles, which is INCREDIBLE, compared to Ducati
Just get the Tiger 1200GT - same bike as the GT Pro but without much of the electronics, including the phone connectivity! It's £2K cheaper than the Pro version allowing you to spend a little on some accessories and has the wiring to add fog lights, heated seats etc afterwards.
A lovely looking bike, and a great review of it. My Tiger 800 would be getting traded in for this if I did 2 up touring.
Really like the redesign of this bike ,compared to the original version. I am about your size TMF and older. I couldn't handle a bike this size offroad anyway, so this model would suit me, better than the Rally.
Thanks for pointing out your take on the handling difference with the smaller front wheel as well as the fork dive. I say both Rally & GT are street bikes anyway so why pick the Rally which is not as good "on -road". Mag rims are easier to change tires and balance and you get a larger selection of street tires to choose from over 21" options. I bet the GT is about as good off road as the GS too ha ha. I might pick the GT with the big tank, I hate getting gas.
About the 19" wheel one more time, is going to do better in the turns as it has different gyroscopic forces and that front tire is a bit wider and has a bigger contact patch for better grip, the slightly less suspension travel also means it will settle in for a turn faster and better. Hitting the curves and braking are riding pleasures that are compromised with dirt bikes on the street. If you really want to go "off-road" then I"m not sure any bike this size is what you want. GT all the way, love that blue too.
Just got myself a Gen1 as an entry point into bigger bikes for me. Loving it after coming from a 700 Transalp. These later Gen videos are really getting the juices flowing. I love the Gen1 but thinking it’d be nice to have some of the niceties of a later Gen Tiger. Thanks for the upload.
My pleasure! Enjoy…
Having done nearly 10,000 miles in a year of ownership of a GT Explorer, I can't praise it enough. Although I am plenty tall enough for the Rally Pro, I prefer to stick to tarmac and light off road, so GT variant suited my needs. Looks better in black (always the fastest colour) kitted out with black panniers. A Massive improvement on my old 2014 Explorer though it did prove to be bulletproof. Personally, I prefer the look of the Triumph over the BMW and Ducati. Though I absolutely agree, 3 fabulous bikes. Nice to be spoilt for choice.
As ever, great content!
Thank you for watching!
Great bike and on my short list! I found the increased gyro effect of the rally front wheel during turn-in was very noticeable. I looked at the Multistrada in a showroom recently. I like the openness of the Tiger frontend better. The Ducati blocked off the view of the road as it has a large front. It reminded me a bit of the GS Adventure. I already have a BMW RT and am looking for a more open air bike. Cheers and thanks!
Interesting observation!
Great review thanks
As I’ve owned a Sprint and 1200 Tiger previously, I tried the 900 as I wanted something lower than my previous GSA, loved the engine but hated the dash. Ended up buying the 950 Multistrada, the V2S, and don’t regret it. Much nicer finish and far more fun to ride, despite a ‘mere’ 115hp it’s quick enough for any type of riding. The GT PRO would be my choice over the Rallye whether 950 or 1200, I’ve only got little legs😜.
Thanks for another fun episode. I, also, will be in the market for replacing my GS in a couple of years. But for me there are only two choices: another GS or the Africa Twin. Thanks again.
Yes there's a lot hanging on that new GS!
Thanks Andy, think you've confirmed what I was thinking all along! Just need my numbers to come up and I'm sorted! 👍🤣
Glad to help!
Great video and very cool bike. Would love to see you revisit the adventure vs sport touring bike comparison. Tiger1200 vs the "slightly" updated r1250rs could be a good one.
Noted!
Glad Triumph finally gave you a chance to test out the GT, Andy. It was just odd that they gave Chops the GT and you the Rally the first go round.
Yes was a bit naff that especially as we each had asked for the other one - someone not paying attention in the out-sourced PR department!
Morning Sir.. Andy I think it's good value for its market. I would like a Pikes Peek Duke or the new Multi. Great New vids your putting out.
Great review. I love the look of these, I just struggle to get over the T-plane crank thing. The old one was lovely and smooth but a bit heavy. I was disappointed when I rode the 900. Its a pity they couldn't do a normal crank version to the GTs. I need to have a ride on a 1200.
Yes I agree - I prefer the sound and smoooothnes of the classic Triumph Triple....this engine is good, just prefer the previous one!
I had the chance to buy either the GT or Rally version at the same price out of the dealership. I found that much of the price and weight difference between the two went into the crash guards and skid plate that you pretty much must purchase on day 1 anyways. Factor in the vouchers and it came down to my personal preferences.
I ended up with the GT Pro. As much as I loved the spoked wheels of the Rally, its seat height was absurd (I am 190cm with gear and can't 100% flat foot it). I also thought about the kind of travel I would do with the bike and arrived at something like 90% on road, 10% off, for which the wider 19" front wheel of the GT was better suited. Compared to the GS, the fork dive was obvious but manageable for me. I am more mad about the dash - BMW debuted their TFT dash in the 2018 GSA and Triumph has remained massively behind 4 years later.
Yes I agree....
I went for the GT Pro when I bought my 900. It’s more dirt roads than pavement here in Idaho but I didn’t want to give up the enjoyment of our paved twisties. I’m running Dunlop Trail Max Missions, a 50/50 tire and ride our dirt roads like a gentleman. No full lock power slides. Some will think “how boring” but so is recovering from an injury.
Hope you recover soon Bob and continue to enjoy those incredible Idaho trails!
Lovely bike i do think that Triumph will bring out a few more colour options which will make the bike look a bit better looking than that blue. Thanks for sharing.
Great bike Andy I’ve the 900 rally pro which I love tried the 1200 rally pro and being on the larger side was fine but for most people think the GT is better !!!! But talking to the local dealer the 900 out sales the 1200 enough side, keep up the great vids 👍 John
Yes the 900 is that much easier to handle I find - and perfectly grunty enough...
What they have done regarding Wright is amazing, I am happy with my current bike,not triumph however I have a hankering to go back to triumph maybe in 2 to 3 years. You don't mention keyless ignition which went wrong on my previous 1200, also they kept the same switchgear which failed twice on me,albeit Terry Cox pointed out that its at least a third of the price of Japanese to replace. Maybe the nine hundred would suit me better. I know BMW shift cam engines are troublesome from a police source and the multistage is too mad for me. Hopefully the clutch issue will be fixed a manual ignition switch will be an option and better switchgear fitted
In the near future then a triumph would be an easy choice, road version all the way for me too
That T plane crank engine sounds like it’s running without oil in it. Another great review Andy.
Bit harsh! But I sort of agree - I prefer the classic Triple sound (and feel)....
I did not expect the fantastic engine note, holy hell. That would be worth getting a nice exhaust for! So addictive.
Thanks for the review TMF. I've sorta fallen out of love with motorcycling (living in a top floor flat sucks when you wanna go out for a ride when it's bloody hot and your garage is not close by) so videos like these keep me going!
Sorry to hear that but entirely understand!
I own a 1200 Gt Po I absolutely love it. This is now the 3rd Triumph I've owned. OK So 10 months on I've use it to commute go for a blast at the weekends it does it all effortlessly. Now, as its a new bike built from the ground up I was expecting a few things to go wrong so these are the issues I've had so far, there was an issue with the clutch this happened several times ( something to do with air in the system) but I have to say this was dealt with promptly and no more issues with the clutch. I now have a issue with a module that reads the key as of today 16/2/23 the bike is off the road awaiting for the parts. There has been a new software upgrade installed while I wait for the parts to come and a recall for a seal this has also been don., I am a bit disappointed that I've had these issues on such a new bike but there you go such is life. Clutch does take time to get used to as the bike has an anti stall system, the GT PRO is very comfortable and the induction noise it make is so addictive, you'll also get an incredibly plush ride. For those of you thinking of getting a GT PRO please don't be put off by my issues BMW have had year to perfect the GS triumph are very very close now the GT PRO is that good I will be holding onto this bike for many years to come.
Thanks for the feedback - sorry you've had so many issues!
Helpful thanks
I went on an hour long test route in the New Forest on this bike with Destination Triumph last summer. Very nice but it did make my throttle hand go numb. I do suffer a bit with this on some bikes. I would advise anyone who gets numb hands to try before you buy.
Good advice...not someting I had trouble with....
That engine note does remind me of the old SD1 v8's that were common in club racing. Sounds great.
Those are coolmachines (and engines)...
Nice review thankyou. Can you get more on that TFT apart from the big round speedo in the middle? I know there's a menu that comes up, but it seems a waste of all that screen if you can't have your essential info on their all the time (like fuel range, temp etc). Cheers!
I believe so....
hi Andy as a fellow long term gs owner and trying all the bikes you were interested in . I've now ordered a triumph tiger gt pro in red . Go on get one ordered !!!!!!
I have the rally pro on loan as we speak!
Sure a clean looking machine. Looks like a motorcycle. Not cluttered with plastic panels everywhere.
Best part of the video was the Range Rover Evoque comment 😂😂😂 Great review as usual 👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed it...it seems I upset a few people with that little quip...
Not to mention the new r 1300 gs will be coming out by the end of the year. easier to maintain as well if you like to do your own maintenance
Great review. Triumphs adventure bikes are the most beautiful bikes out there when it comes to price. With that said its not a cheap bike. Thats why i bought the Triumph 900 GT Pro. Its cheaper and good enough. For me 900 cc its just fine dont need the 1200cc. Just love my bike.
Yes I love the Tiger 900s
Hi Andy another excellent review, you are so good at them, and it certainly is a lovely bike, I have a 1250 GS ADV factory lowered chassis, I'm a couple of inches taller than you, but I prefer to be able to flat foot the bike with a slight bend in the knee, previously I had the standard one, and not being able to flat foot it didn't fill me with confidence. The thing I would like to know about that Triumph is how Mrs Flyer likes it compared to the GS as a pillion, if at all possible, and what are the luggage options. I'm exactly like you with the three bikes you mentioned, and if the new 1300 GS has radar cruise and blind spot monitoring it may be my choice again. The mighty GS is still the King for me. Close run thing though. Thank you.
Yes same here....
Have to be honest, i was keenly anticipating the 1200 tiger but then they made it taller than the 900 so outside my comfort zone. I can imagine it being fantastic for long distance touring if my 900 was anything to go by.
Strange because 800 vs 1200 in 2014 the 800 was taller but the 1200 was wide in the seat. Thank god the old 1200 wasn't tall because it felt very top heavy. The new tiger 1200 feels a lot like the first Africa twin adventure sport (the really tall one) its not really top heavy nor is the 900. Something wrong with the old 800/1200 the 800 was manageable but only because it wasn't that heavy anyway.
Love the look of this bike
I borrowed one recently and for the limited time I had it, it was an enjoyable ride. I did find it top heavy, but it is the tallest motorcycle I've ridden.
The dealer recommended the Rally over the GT, but I've not been a fan of spoked wheels, since having to clean the mud out of them on an enduro in the 80's.
😁
You'd find the Rally even taller!
@@TheMissendenFlyer yes, being 6'3" the dealer seems to think it's better for me. Other than sliding forward occasionally on the seat, I found the GT Pro height just right .
Thx
G
GT pro fits me very well at 6’2”.
Nice bike. Who doesn’t like a Triumph? I’d probably go for the GS if l wanted that sort of bike though!
First! Awesome bike. Love your reviews! Cheers!
Ah, but did you watch it through first? If not then it doesn't count...
@@BibtheBoulder I tested it myself.
I think Bib has a point though!
I also own a R1250GSA and it is my favorite overall bike.
I ride the 900. I wish they would transfer the TFT software from the 1200 to the 900. I liked the display on the 1200!
Great stuff
I'm sold to this bike. Love my Xrx 800 this seems like logical upgrade.
I wish you had the choice of paint colours to include the green as love that colour, and why can’t you have spoked wheels on a road version ?
Personally if you could of had those options for a road version I would have bought that in the explorer garb. But I have had to go with the rally pro version with the low seat to get the colour and spokes (personal taste I know) couldn’t touch the floor very well on the rally explorer so that was out. But so far I’m loving the bike, great comfortable seat, love the exhaust note when you wind it up, been for its first service took it for a wee run the other day an the cruise control not working so it’s back in to sort that out ☹️
Overall though I’m lovin the bike 😢
Excellent TMF 👍
Thanks 👍
I don’t remember seeing how you attached this gopro to the helmet, sorry if I missed it on the channel! I agree with there being nothing that ‘stands out’ looks wise, to me it kinda feels like a poor man’s GS
This bike has been top of my wish list for some time. Fits me as a larger guy really well. Asked my local Triumph Birmingham East for a test ride and they said I could have it for a maximum of 30 minutes! Simply not enough time to decide on a long distance machine costing 18K
I declined the 30 minute test. Still looks a great bike from your review.
Crazy that isn't it....don';t get why dealers mnake it hard to buy.
@@TheMissendenFlyer Perhaps Triumph could offer the option of test rides for those doing their factory tours. By the way it`s a great day out,
You need a different dealership. That is not the norm…
That's poor 30 mins is rubbish, when I test rode the Multistrada V4 they told me about hour but I must have been out for 2 and they never said anything tbh, although they had my Tuono parked outside so knew I was coming back lol.
@@wl660 I've been told Staffordshire Triumph are good. Trying them next
the GT pro and explorer versions are 24,000 and 26,000 euro respectively over here in the Netherlands. I simply couldn't that type of money on a bike these days... To be honest, I would need to be spending 15,000 euro and upwards to be getting any thing worth having. It is crazy really...
Enjoyable video Andy, interested to know what helmet mount your using for the GoPro?
Just the standard GoPro one....
Totally agree with your comment about connected phone nav compare dwith dedicated GPS unit. Prefer having seperate GPS myself, even in a car. I have found all of the various Andriod connectivity stuff flaky to say the least no matter what I have tried it on. (and that with several different phones and vehicles. Ive given up on trying to get this stuff to work with my Guzzi).
I do like the blue colour on that bike and the engine does sound fab. Still way too tall for me by about 40mm 😭Wonder if Triumph will do a GT low version like the 900. Shaft drive is a bonus too.
Glad we concur!
Nice vid, love this bike. I ended up buying a GS as I didn’t want to wait most of the summer for a new Tiger 1200 to arrive. Hey ho next time. What mount are you using for the gopro 360?
I don’t recall the name off the top of my head - sorry about that…
@@TheMissendenFlyer no worries bud, ride safe 🤘
Remembered - it's a RAM mount - expensive but tough....
@@TheMissendenFlyer what a guy, cheers dude 👌
GT would be my choice over the Rally. At 5’6”, the Rally is just too tall. Thanks for your perspective.
As someone who's looking for a road oriented bike with shaft drive (+ not humongous like the GL) and is not too keen on ze germanz - this is probably the only valid option right now!
Great review Andy. How did you find the tyres in the damp/wet ? I had the same on my Triumph Tiger GT Pro. I thought they were crap. Changed the Michelin Road 6 , so much better. Which model Rukka jacket are you wearing?
...yes I'm a fan of the Road 6's too (have them on my GS) =- that jacket is the Rukka Nivala 2 from memory...
It seems a nice bike, the single great advantage of the BMW’s as an everyday rider is the shaft drive, it’s just hassle free and keeps everything clean. I know the old Trophy had a shaft and surprised Triumph didn’t develop it for their top of range adventure bikes as it makes a real difference.
But it is a shaft drive.....
It is a shaft drive as some has already said works really well an as you say so much cleaner 😁👍
Stuart, the 1200 Tiger does have shaft drive
I think the blue one you tested looks nice but I don't think it could make me smile when I go in my garage like my multistrada does 😁
Possibly not - hard to beat the joy looking back at a Ducati gives you!
Thanks for a great review, liking your mixed content as always! I think I am a similar type of biker to you & of a similar stature (maybe 1" shorter). I would really appreciate your view as to how it compares to the 900 GT Pro. Is it worth the extra €€?? Does it really feel that much different? The day to day? I do a bit of city (Valencia), but mainly the incredible mountain roads we have near here & some longer tours. Thanks again & keep up the great work - love your channel😀
Yes it would be good to do a side by side review….might see if I can.
The 900 GT Pro is quite a bit smaller and lighter, much easier to ride, less top heavy, less of a barge. But there is still buzz through the handlebars. And the screen is only adjustable off the bike not like on the 1200 where you can adjust it on the move.
@@alexmorgan3435 When you refer to the 1200 as being top heavy & a barge, are you referring to the old or new model? I used to have a 1200Xcx & it certainly was top heavy & barge-like to maneuver at a stop. I understood this had been largely solved with the new model?
@@JohnGadsby-mi7ui The new one.
Still a big beast in seat height. Very likely too high for me. I’m tiptoe on a GS. An bmw RT is no problem.
Color is great, sound too.
Have to agree, this would be my choice over the Rally Pro. Now I just need to find the funds.......
That ol' chestnut!
Hi Andy,Thanks for a nice informative video on the comparisons between the rally pro and the pro👍.
I’m interested in that Rukka jacket that you are wearing in the video.
Is it a winter jacket and can it withstand zero degrees?
I thank you in advance for your reply .
Yes and yes - it's the Rukka Nivala 2....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Many thanks for the reply Andy,have a great day👍
You too!
i bought the RE last summer but have been given the GT Pro when mine was in for a service…..and it is tiny in comparison! At 6’1” I prefer the RE, it’s just a better fit for me and I cannot feel any difference in handling. The RE has steeper rake to compensate for the bigger wheel and that seem to work. No reliability problems. Better fuel consumption than the Ducati but I am looking forward to the 1300GS!
Me too!
Was going to buy the GT in May last year, glad I held fire (The Rally Explorers were like rocking horse stuff at that time). I waited and glad I did, got the Rally Explorer. (Oh, an ex GSA owner here).
How do you find it compared to the GS?
@TheMissendenFlyer A bit more of a challenge at low speed with 30 litres in the tank and a full top box. It's a lot comfier than the GSA, though I find.
...interesting on the comfort front - that higher COG would be a worry for me....
@@TheMissendenFlyer That's where the GSA has an advantage, the low slung boxer helps tremendously. The Tigers seat is extremely comfortable on long days in the saddle. I found that after 2 hours on the beemer, I really did need to stand or even get off for a while. No such issue on the big khaki green 'un.
Thanks, Andy a good review of what appears to be a very nice bike, many thanks from a very poor Evoque owner 😂
Don't start Paul!
The price saving, hmm. I'm guessing the £16k+ doesn't include luggage. I'd go for a kitted out 850 Sport which is as much bike as the vast majority require and have a used Street Triple 675 with the change. Nicely done TMF, cheers.
Cheers as ever Colin!
Nice review Andy. I agree with you on a few points. Pro's: shaft drive, rider modes, fit+finish, performance, weight, features (and many more probably) Cons: STILL the display on the TFT. It's better than the 900 layout but still not there with the GS. Joystick controller button. KTM seem to have a better version (Not sure if the BMW wheel is patented or not) Rather bland looks. I have a horrible feeling for Triumph that when the new 1300GS comes out it could lead to a sales killer for other brands, just as the likes of Triumph caught up. Would I have one? Yes. (I don't have the mullah though, so mute point)
"moot" point....and yes, I think you may be right!
You know, I was half thinking of the Joey from friends "Moo point" gag 😅
Nice review, Ive considered this as a former Tiger owner but will hang on to my KTM until the R1300gs comes out. I may even wait for the R1300rs as I don't really go off road at all. The 1300 boxer engined bikes look like they're going to do very well if the shots we've seen so far are anything to go by.
I went from a GS to an RS mate and I would definitely stick with a GS if not only for the front Telelever suspension and wind protection. Ive had many bikes and the GS is the only one I really miss
@@n22pdf what, there's better wind protection on the GS? They'd have to work on that for the RS!
Interesting video, I'm curious - is it reg plate envy (not meant to come across nastily)? Because your own GS doesn't sound like it's costing you a lot of money? I've bought an older Multistrada 1260S last year (2018) as seat height was lower, the V4 wasn't available at the time with cylinder cut (now changed) and the servicing bills with the Triumph were nearly double that of the GS, which my pillion liked the least (happy other half... etc). Anyhue... Just wondered what the motivation was, and given that the GS is the only other bike Mrs TMF goes on - does that come into consideration?
Just fancy updating it as it's getting long in the tooth - I don't have reg plate envy - I have a brand new GoldWIng in the garage!!
I've owned adventure bike, they have they place, but I also think there's a lot of hype surrounding them. Also, how many adventure bikes like the BMW GS actually go off-road, not that many. The adventure bike I owned was very top-heavy, had soft suspension, and suffered from front end dive. If you're not going to go off road, then my advice would be to buy a tourer instead, they're a far nicer bike to ride on road. Bikes fitted with semi-active suspension can help, like the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, but they're are very expensive.
That's where the GS scores - not top heavy due the Boxer engine, no fork dive due the Telelever front end and the Electronic Suspension measn you can stiffen her up....
@@TheMissendenFlyer I won't be buying an adventure bike again, but if someone was interested, the GS is one of the bikes I recommend for the reasons you've highlighted. They're good if you're taking a pillion, the road presence is excellent, the GS has a great dash, and the whizz-wheel is a brilliant invention. But, they're very expensive, and even though it carries its weight low down, it's still a heavy bike to move about, especially with a 21" knobbly on the front end. And, like all adventure bikes, because of the suspension travel, they're very tall, unless you go for the lower seat height version and/or active suspension to drop the height of the bike. Also, it's not really the bike of choice for going off road, let's face it, the only off-road action most BMW GS ever see, is on a campsite, or a bit of gravel in a car park! If I was to go touring, I would go for something like the new Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. You can carry a pillion if required, you can easily attach and remove the panniers, it has a lovely 7" TFT dash with phone integration, it looks very modern, it uses a modified version of the legendary Suzuki GSX-R1000 K5 engine, and you'd save a ton of cash, what's not to like! 👍
I really wanted to get a new 1200 Tiger. Test road a GT explorer back to back with a GS and GSA…while I liked it, I am waiting on my GSA Triple Black to come in soon…
Ooh exciting..
Just snagged a deal on an ex demo under a 1000 miles below £14k (just) 2 + years left on the warranty - cash is king lol (probably isn’t these days, but the sales manager buckled). Exactly the same model as tested Blue GT Pro - I’ve never ridden one so let’s hope they’re as good as they say.
Congratulations and enjoy!
looks a great bike! may be a good option so you can find it easier in the car park among all the GS's! I'm just jealous :-)
Yes good point!
200mm suspension front and rear is impressive for a bike with cast wheels. Seems more than any bike before it.
That’s a while ago, wendover woods wasn’t wasn’t like that this morning
Indeed it was - I imagine it's lovely there today - might pop along later on the Honda Hornet!
You riden the V4S yet? I just chucked my GS in for a brand new V2S. (V4 was too much of a lump for my dodgy knee). V2S is that Goldilocks bike for me though, such good fun. V4S is supposed to be insane!!
Indeed I have....here's my in depth review czcams.com/video/s0lhzi_Fe9g/video.html
Beautiful machine Andy, big decision between the 3 but from what I know of you I think the BMW is under your skin and that’s where you will head. 😊.
Well I'll see what the new GS1300 has to offer for sure.....I have high hopes for it!
4:57 TMF throwing more shade than the statue of Christ the Redeemer at sunset. 🔥
I knew that comment woud get me into trouble - it was meant to be a joke....
I’d rather have a GS by an absolute mile! Much, much better low speed handling, no fork dive, better fuel economy, better low speed torque, no buzzy engine vibes, better for a pillion, surprisingly service costs on the BM will be lower long term than the Triumph! On my previous gen Triumph Tiger I was quoted £900 for the service which included valve adjustment, on the BMW that is a twenty minute job instead of several hours and they don’t need to take the bike virtually to pieces!!! 😮🙁😡. Andy load the Triumph up with luggage and a pillion then try low speed riding through heavy traffic/ town etc and you will change your mind about it I guarantee it! GS for me every single day please! 👏👍😀 PS My Tiger had a gearbox issue that Triumph couldn’t fix, it jumped into false neutrals , it was quite dangerous actually, I’m determined to never have another!
To big and expensive for me BUT I LOVE THE SOUNDS it makes !!
the bike looks nice Andy but i prefer the sound of the old triple myself .
Yes me too...
This was on my short list .... until I sat on one at the bike show. Not sure if its normal or if that one had certain seats on it but I didn't feel there was any space to move backwards and forwards ☹
Oh dear!
Hi Andy, I think you’ve now tested the Rally Pro and GT Pro versions of both the 900 and 1200 models. Are there any significant differences other than a little bit more power (and maybe the 900 has enough anyway?) and does any benefit compensate for hassle of extra weight? A video comparison would be great, thanks.
Yes that would make for a good video - in all honesty I think the 900 has ample of everything, but a side by side comparison would be interesting...
Shaft vs chain drive. Big plus for the 1200 in my book
The 900 is way lighter and smaller than the 1200, but it still suffers from buzz through the bars just like it's bigger brother cos of the T plain crank.
Including a two up touring and overtaking comparison
Thank you mr Flyer!
When it comes to looks on the GS and this one....they do, imho, look like they are built in Lego. But at the same time, they are built for a purpose. And that gives them some credit.
But that purpose is rarely used. And then there's the weight. You know what? I don't like these machines, so who am I to comment!?! 😁
Fair enough - the rugged looks appeal to me, in the same way as say an old Land Rover does…
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes, an old Defender! Yes, you're right. That's how one should look at them. But you do find Defenders in the mud. 🤭
Nice video.
Bikes I'd like to see you test ride are as follows (and in no particular order):
2022-23 Honda XADV-750
2023 BMW F850 GS Adventure
2022-23 BMW G310 GS
I thank you in advance. 😀
I have ridden older versions of all those (just incase you've not seenthe reviews)....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Hence my putting in the model years. 😄
Hi, did you do your monthly review for January? I may have just missed it.
Nope - taking a break until March.....
I rode one of these a couple of weeks ago. Didn't get on with the engine at all. Thought it felt too stressed, vibey and manic compared to the smooth triples Triumph have been known for. Plus there was buzz through the handle bars which started to annoy me after riding it for about half an hour. Triumph should have kept it in the style of all their previous triples like the 1200RS just altered the mapping to give it more low down torque. Plus I thought it just felt too big and heavy. I'm shorter than you and was on tiippy toes riding it. The Tiger 900 GT Pro might be a better option although if it's essentially the same engine then it's a turn off for me.
I believe the Ducati Multistrada V4 likes to drink fuel. So you'd spend much of your time either filling up or getting it repaired.
My pick of these adv type bikes would be the KTM SA 1290. Gorgeous engine, loads of character, good TfT, and I can get my feet on the ground with a PowerParts comfort seat.
Fair enough!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks for your reply. The future is orange.
The evoque comment made me smile as my other half has owned one for 5 years and loves it and no she couldn't afford a proper Range Rover like yours. The Evoque wasn't exactly cheap in the first place.She said after that comment she's going to stop watching your videos but like you I'm sure she's joking too 😏
I hope so - it was intended as a joke…I’m sure your Mrs Evoque is worth more than my 11 year old Vogue….
Although it might be a great bike Andy, I'm afraid the triple being mangled to sound more like a twin really doesn't appeal to me. Sounded clattery like a bag of spanners to my ears.
Particularly for the GT road version, they should differentiate from the competition and use a traditional 120 degree triple. That would sound awesome!
Yes I agree....
Nope triumph haven’t fixed the phone integration. I finally got it working partially on my 1200 GT Pro but now it messes with the helmet comms so I’ll probably have to factory reset the Bluetooth.
I have the 2023 900 GT Pro, same color...It's the Goldielock of Bikes I feel. No complaints. It also keeps my 2021 R9T-719 company.
Nice....
Nice review & nice bike too. Sounds amazing & I get your V8 reference. I also agree that I have no interest in the off road versions of any big adventure bike as I personally would never take anything that tall, heavy & expensive proper off roading. In the fullness of time would you be able to review the latest V-Strom 1050 road going version (not the DE) as I'd be interested to see your impressions.
I hope too!
Interesting review as always TMF thanks. Seems to me it's horses for courses and leg length which determines the best but GT would be my preference. One niggly gripe with the script though... muscle memory does not determine whether you'll hit the right switch with familiarity over time. Muscle memory determines the resting or relaxed length of the muscle after contraction, that is if it returns to a position of good tone or a hypertonic state (too tight or too loose perhaps). The memory you mean is neurological in nature ie in your brain!