2018 Big-Bore Adventure Touring Shootout - Part 1: The Street
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- čas přidán 26. 08. 2018
- So, who are the contenders? In (mostly) alphabetical order, we’ve got the BMW R1200GS Adventure, Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports, KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, Suzuki V-Strom 1000 XT, Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa, and Yamaha Super Tenere ES. All of them are designed to explore both the beaten and unbeaten paths no matter where you are in the world. They’ve got big engines, bigger gas tanks, tall seats, loads of technology, and in this case, a lot of MOrons piloting them.
The outlier in the group is the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Tour. Its cast wheels won’t do it any favors in the dirt portion of our test, but it was the only Multistrada Ducati had available - we had requested the smaller-engined but properly-wheeled Multistrada Enduro. It was either Multi 1260 S or nothing, so we bent our self-imposed rule. Rest assured, once we get our hands on the Enduro, it’ll get its proper shake against whoever wins this shootout.
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As a new owner of a Super Tenere, I am baffled at the negative impressions reviewers leave on youtube. It really looks like BMW marketing assasination. I can't agree with those negatives, I find the bike to be amazing in ergonomics, handling and even exhaust note.
And as a GS owner I disagree because I think GS bikes are not the best at anything but just good all arounders 😂😂😂
@@bajaadventurerider Unfortunately, reliability and running costs should be factored into any purchase. A look at forums for, say, the S10 and the GS, the consistency is obvious: GSs break, Super Teneres don't.
Alright. I’m tired of the Super Ten slander and I’m going to tell the comment section why all the professional Moto journalists and publications hate on the Super Ten. The simple answer is “They need a loser” and they don’t mind pissing off Yamaha corporate. They cannot say bad things about KTM, Ducati or BMW because they won’t get anymore press bikes.
There is one single word here that us common man in the comments want to hear but you will NEVER hear a publication talk about it and that is RELIABILITY.
The Super Tenere is arguably the most reliable motorcycle ever made. It’s built like a Toyota Land Cruiser. It’s got a big 1200cc engine and only makes 100hp. It’s low compression and low stress for reliability. Lots of STs on the forums sith 200,000 miles and one bike I’ve seen with 400,000 miles. The only other bike in this lineup with that kind of reliability is the BMW GS and really that’s just the engine, the boxer engine is very reliable but the GS has shaft drive failures constantly, electrical issues and that fancy front suspension is very expensive to replace.
I was in the market for an ADV bike. I was dead set on buying a GS and then I read horror stories on the forums of guys getting stranded, electrical issues, draft shafts snapping in half and $8,000 bills from the dealership because the front suspension got damaged and needed replacement. Or my favorite a $1,200 bill to replace the headlight on a GS because it has auto dimming sensors.
I liked the Africa Twin but I do big miles so I wanted shaft drive. I researched the Super T for months and months and all I heard was negatives from the journalist and positives from the common man. So I bought one.
The super T handles amazing and its weight is very low down. The bike has no traditional forward facing radiator, the radiator is mounted on its side so this allowed the Yamaha engineers to bring the engine forward and down in the frame lowering the bikes CoG.
Alright that’s my rant. Until these journalists start talking about Japanese reliability vs European reliability I won’t take their reviews seriously
I agree, They are almost the same damn bike, maybe the Tenere has a little higher center of gravity, it’s also bombproof reliable and the POS BMW is going to eat your wallet alive in repairs and is zero better at anything appreciable. Moron Americans just like to blow their money and say they spent the most possible on a less than reliable machine.
Another thumbs up for the Super Tenere. I've had mine for over 4 years and love it. None of the professional reviewers like them, but most owners love them. I used to get a bit of handlebar vibration until I fitted some puppy grips. that got rid of it completely for £15! Plus you get super reliability and a bike that really is built to last
"The Super Tenere is heavy- well its not heavy." WTF dude? These testers are a joke! Scrawny little tester thinks the bike is heavy. This squirt "Troy" couldn't pick up ANY of these bikes by himself! How the bike sounds??? Give me a break!!! Refinements??? Every rider is going to refine the bikes they ride. None of these bikes, minus maybe the AT and the 1290, are gonna "dance around" They are "TOURING BIKES" for the love of God! The guy that dropped the AT going 5mph needs to be replaced! Try lowering the tire pressure a bit dork! Then the tire change Circus was hilarious! Three guys to change a tire WTF???
Professional journalists are anti “common man” notice how reliability is never a topic of conversation in these videos. I swear these Moto publications exist just to lick the underside of KTM, BMW and Ducatis ball sacks. All they do is talk about how a bike performs and yeah sure we all want a super start motorbike but the common man is also worried about wrenching on his own bike. Parts and ease of installation is a big topic as well that never gets discussed.
it sounds a bit that a "professional reviewer" is not a good rider. Because i love the bike.
Well I've tested the GS and GSA, I've owned the KTM 1290s but now have a gen 2 Yamaha super tenere...only wish I'd got one sooner. So comfortable, reliable, plenty of power, great bike.
I completely understand the negative reviews of the Tenere. I too would be pissed if a bike came along that does everything as well, for half the price with double the reliability as my GS. But seriously? No room standing up? Try starting up on an Africa Twin and pull a wheelie...it will trow you off the back if not careful. That bike is cramped, the S10 has room like no other. Carries its weight heavy? It turns into twisties like a streeetbike all day long effortless regardless of its 27 degree rake. Stalled in a low speed turn and almost fell over? Dont blame the bike for your incompetence sir! My S10 has TKC80 front and M-Tractionator rear and is a beast on and off road. Best ADV bike I ever had and indestructible.
I've got A S10 since Aug 2010....140.000km....no issues at all. The quality and resilience of this bike is beyond any expectation.
wow 140,000k ... you been to places...
The only time I feel my 2012 Super Tenere feels heavy is when I push it out of my shop to go riding. Oil, fuel and Tires is all I have needed. Always runs great and a joy to ride. One of the first to order it from Yamaha Japan. Sorry but I think you guys didn't give any of these bikes a real fair shake in your part 1.
Was going to say the very same thing. Extremely BMW bias, and sure it´s a good ride, but how about after 100.000miles? The Yamaha will never fail you, the BMW has one of the worst warranty numbers among all bikes. The Tenere has gone through a lot of engineering to lower the center of mass to get one of the lowest in the market. Look at F9´s review, where he explains exactly what they did. Get your facts right before influencing a thousand people to choose bike.
Could not agree more. Once you've owned a Tenere and lived with it you just do not know what your missing. But we owner's love that.
The fact that the V-Strom is even considered against the tiger, GS and KTM proves it’s the clear winner
I am tired about hearing how tall bikes are! I am 6'4" and have long legs. I suffer from bikes being too low, but this rarely gets mentioned. I like that adventure bikes are tall and don't want this to change one bit.
Amen Bob ! im 6'4" 250lbs, 36" inseam and the Ktm is the most comfortable for me long distance followed by the gsa.
I’m there with ya. I’m 6’4” also and I am looking to trade in my shadow (really low bike) for a BMW GS 1200
So agree with this. I put taller seats on almost all the bikes for this reason. My 2018 DL1000 is very comfortable now with the tall seat option raising it another inch.
Shut up
Also 6'4" and completely agree.
Like many, I love my 2014 Yamaha Tenere. Testers always talk about retail price which isn't real world. I paid $12K out the door for my year end closeout bike, I looked at a GS but it was more than double that and the BMW dealer doesn't haggle in my neck of the woods.
I've seen crazy prices on the xtz1200 i was offered a brand new one for £9k. I paid £10k for my f800gs with factory extra's
I’m not sure if they are weak or just to short, but the Super Tenere feels less top heavy than my DR650; same goes for the GS. The “issues” with the S10 all seemed to be related to the “sound”; exhaust and valves (which don’t even have to be checked until 24k miles). I’ve rode all of these bikes except the Ducati and I bought the Yamaha... and would again. Tubeless tires, shaft drive, comfortable ride, easy service, reasonable price, and Yamaha quality; I don’t see (or hear) the problem.
Very well stated and probably the opinion of nearly all S10 owners. Oh, the one thing I don't like is that it stalls occasionally when you pull in the clutch while decelerating, usually as I approach a stop. I think the rider in the video blamed himself for a stall, but it is the lean engine tuning that does it. I am over it. Yamaha hasn't acknowledged the problem.
...I don’t understand how an Adventure bike with USD forks doesn’t have a mudguard that actually covers the chrome fork tubes. Why wouldn’t you want to prevent mud and dust collecting on the tubes so that you limit potential for seal damage? There’s a host of other design compromises. These opinions are on the money. It’s a massive plus that it’s reliable. Aside from that it really needs a thorough redesign to get close to the current adventure touring standards.
Smart guy don’t b a aunt make your own road
I think this was more a bmw promotion because every bike was knocked when bm was put on a pedastal.
Kevin Hanley adjust your Throttle Body Synch. Yamaha leaned them out to pass admissions. Take the painted one and screw it in until it stops. Then turn 3/4 of a turn out. Then using a Synchronizer adjust the non-painted one to match it. Takes care of that problem.
I also put AltRider lower fork protectors on and they were not very expensive for what they are... much rather do that then spend thousands on those more expensive bikes. I also put on custom front suspension because no manufacturer spends the money for a 6'3" 260# rider. Amazingly better. The more I ride this Super Tenere the more I really like it... and yes, I have taken it out in rough off road scenarios. It's not tio heavy at all. Handles superbly on road and corners well. Even after I put on MotoZ Tractionator Adventure tires on it. For $275 I had it flashed. Has great throttle and pick up in sport. I put on a lot of good crash protection on it and it is still way under what those more expensive bikes will be before you start adding stuff on them. This is coming from a person who has ridden Honda's since 73. I was drooling over an AT until this deal on the ST showed up. I don't even desire a twin now. I can easily pull away from my buddies AT and go anywhere he goes... and my tank is a gallon bigger and I don't worry about a chain. I also ride a CBR 1100XX Super Blackbird and a 2015 Wing, 2007 ST1300 I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Who hears valves when riding? I don't. Yes, I do have a Yoshimura pipe and the bike sounds great and even with that addition it is cheaper than the KTM and BMW. Top heavy ... not for my 6'3" frame. How come they didn't talk about the great low end torque and you don't need to rev this engine to get to it. It just plods along and gets you there and doesn't break down. F9 does a better review. Theu take bikes out for less than 1/2 a day over light dirt? Sheesh.
Great video and thanks for adding the Strom! It is often under-rated
Like how they don’t mention if you service a bmw at a dealership at the recommended intervals you will have spent enough to buy a new bike before you get to 50k. Not so on the Yamaha. I would venture to guess that if you only changed fluids on all of these bikes and rode them into the ground that the Yamaha will be the last one standing by a long ways.
Give John a job! 😁 great presence and mic voice 👍😉 obviously a passionate biker too
Not surprised by the VStrom taking second place. I test drove it in Daytona and loved it.
KTM pops wheelie in intro...typical...that’s why I love it.
Being on the market for one of these bikes test rode some and really didnt have intention buying GS. Test rode AT last, fell in love with it and decided to put deposit on it. As I waited at Honda dealership old couple of what looked like 'round the world travellers' pulled in one one of them very road beat GS'. Said to myself 'dude go and try GS just to take it out of equation, scribble of the list and buy your Africa without saying what if'. Test rode the Beemer, machine blew me away and decided to go with GS.
I know its expensive, I know it cost more to keep on the rode but if one can afford it, hell yeah go and do it. GS brought every riding aspect for me to the next level.
Unmatching handling and brakes. No dive at all, good electronics package. Handling and manouvering feather light (taking nonAdventure one) motor pokey and linear, fierce fast to. Instantly felt at home on this bike and instantly put smile on my face and biking is about putting smile on my ugly mug ☺ Ride safe everyone and go with your dreams
Interesting how many people love the Tenere, but these reviewers are always knocking it.
They live in a bubble. Imagine if you got to ride them all and got paid for it. You don't pay for the fuel, the bike, or the maintenance. Even if you break it, you just get another one. Why would they not circle jerk each other around the one with the most bells and whistles? Who cares what it costs or how often in breaks if you aren't footing the bill?
I have a super tenere and it does not feel heavy. It has a low CG and handled very good, even in the parking lot.
The African twin seems like a cool bike as long as you never tip over. I like the Super Tenere. All those short guys struggle with it, but average height people have no problem with it.
3 years back tried the vstom,couldn't fault ,nearly bought it.
As I rode the gs's for last 15 years I went for the rallye 1200.
Next bike very soon ,Vstom, half the price, don't think I'll disappointed either.
Great review 👏
Nicely designed engine protection!
Great job Honda!!!
Now I own a Super Tenere, what must be said is clear, it is heavy but doesn't feel heavy (and not the other way around as you say in the review). I can do U turns in a soft and smooth way at very slow speed, thanks to the near-perfect balance and engine softness. So I don't understand your statements about the ST. See FortNine's review on YT.
Thanks to this video and much more, I chose to purchase a 2019 VStrom 1000xt and love it. I purchased in August and so happy I made the right choice. Keep making videos!
Evans with the Buell Ulysses T-shirt!!! Rock on brother! I love mine. Just did a vacation trip from Reno to Tuscon.
wow de Vstrom did really well. I think that's my next bike. Comming from a KLR, it's a 100% upgrade
I had a 2014 vstrom. It was really an awesome bike. Perfect for everything.
czcams.com/video/jUfvopkRJw8/video.html
Wow great review, this just reaffirmed my decision to own the new 1250 BMW GS Adventure--thank you for sharing
I had nothing but sports bikes for over 35yrs. On my 2nd GSA now, which I’ve even used as a track day instructor ride... an amazingly capable bike 👍
I agree that the R1200GS is maybe the best bike to ride, but I'm sure it's not the best bike to own (reliability issues, high maintenance cost, etc)... After seeing some friends struggle with their BMWs finally I decided to buy a S10, and it gives me peace of mind when I have to travel alone far away from home.
s10??????? what's a s10?
@@extraordinarywolf320
Duh
Super TENere = S-TEN = S10
Great review, loving the KTM! I ended up getting the S version for more street use and ended up adding the crash bars just incase. If you guys had the KTM S version there I think it would make your decision a bit more difficult lol. You make a good point even though its the street version its still capable of going off road and things can and probably will happen. Best to have protection!
Thank you guys so much for openly talking about the heat given off by the Tiger. It's like the elephant in the room nobody wants to talk about. Nice to hear about the Suzuki V Strom. For me, it's the GS all the way!! Love my GS so much more :)
Excellent video and review, You clear my mine, My next motorcycle GS 1200, thanks guys. 😄👍🏽
Having just taken my Tiger 1200 XRt down to Albania and then back up the Adriatic coast in 35°C weather I can confirm that the bike gives off a lot of heat and that indeed the tank seems to absorb most of it, which isn't ideal when you're sitting right up against it. After a few days I ended up with a nasty rash that spread all over my belly from sitting up against that hot tank for up to 10 hours per day. Though while I agree the bike feels quite heavy when you're manhandling it around, I never had any issues with the weight (even with a full load of gear) once I started rolling. Although in fairness it's been 4 years since I've been on a GS so I can't really compare it to that.
First: Sorry for my poor english, but thats not my native language. I‘m ridin a 1200 XRT too and last saturday i came back from a 3.700 km (2.300 mls) tour throug the Vosges, Alsace, the western Alps, the french coastline at the mediterranean sea, Liguria, Piedmont, switzerland and the Black Forest in Germany. I have to say, its true, the 1200 engine of the Tiger produces a lot of waste heat which you feel between your legs and at your belly. But for me it was only a „Problem“ during the stop and go ride along the french coastline road at the Côte d‘Azur. During „normal“ riding, when you have airstream enough, for me it‘s defenitely not a problem. (But ok, Albania may be a different challenge in temperatures). On the other side i enjoyed the warmth during the ride over the Julier Pass in Heavy Rain or over some other alpine passes with 10 feet ore more snowwalls beneath the road. ;-)
I absolutely agree with you, that the heavy weight of the Tiger only is a problem whilst manhandling. If the bike Starts rolling, for this „juggernaut“ the bike is surprisingly agile or movable. But thats also a question of the tires. The Michelin Pilot 5 Trail is a perfect one in this case. And althoug i have to criticize the poor torque till 4000 revs of the 2018 Model, i have to say, the absolutely smooth throttle response and power delivery at lowest revs makes it very easy and comfortable to master the challenges of extremely narrow hairpin bends on alpine pass roads. Not to talk of the awesome long distance comfort of the 1200 Tiger.
Thank you for speaking out for people who don't have $20K+ to spend on a bike. I'm looking for a VStrom myself.
The new Strom is so nice but I love the Yam for the shaft drive.
Great comparison and you can't beat honesty it just shines through.
Finally, you guys are back to producing solid content. One of your better efforts after sliding in quality. Welcome back
Much appreciated, thanks. We try our best each time. Inevitably, some are better than others.
I'm not a great rider, just nowhere near a "natural" on bikes. I wanted a GS from the very first one in the 80s, always loved them. I finally went to a dealer to test ride a used GS, an 1150 era. The minute I got on the bike, having never ridden anything but 650 thumpers, I was doing tight figure 8s in the parking lot. The sales rep asked if I was an MSF instructor...I'm nowhere near one, the GS is just that easy to handle.
I took off down the road and did an hour or so on it and I was just "done", it was incredible. I'm 6'5" and heavy and I think part of what I felt was that for the first time, I actually understood how a bike should handle. I suspect the low center of the GS offset my high center where on my 650 thumpers I always feel spindly and not planted and in turn, not very confident in the bikes. I wound up buying a new '16 GSA that day and after years of riding, it's the first bike where it felt right to me. It takes a mediocre rider and makes me feel competent. Nothing else feels like them.
Yes that Boxer motor and shaft drive is the GS equivalent of a 911 flat 6 in the rear. All the character. All the capability. 🏁
A used Super Tenere is the best "bang for your buck" in the motorcycle world.
i have riden all these bikes, the BMW GSA has the best ride, the ktm and vstrom have great vtwin engines, the super tenere has heavy steering, the africa twin looks fantastic, the ducati is superfast - great video ! we are so lucky to have so many choices - i settled on the gsa and vstrom myself
Geez, you basically experienced the same things I did. Even down to the two bikes you'd pick! We must be twins...
Having owned a gs long term, I would agree they're great bikes. However, once the warranty period runs out, the repairs start stacking up. And nothing on this bike is cheap. If you're independently wealthy and/or don't really ride much, then it's a great choice.
I also have Super Tenere, and have had it for a while as well. While I agree that it's not flashy or interesting, I disagree on the weight. It's about the same as the gs, slightly better since it's slightly lighter. But the real difference is that I've had to service my anvil more often. This thing just keeps going even if you try to break it. I met one guy riding his around the world for the second time, and he has never even bothered to adjust the valves in 280,000 miles.
I've ridden the KTM, and it's very impressive. The motor is the best and most fun motor in motorcycling today. I'm not sure about the complexity for a adv bike, time will tell whether all the bells and whistles become a liability with age.
Yes, you hit the nail on the head. It is very expensive to service the BMW and if you get stuck in Northwest Montana almost impossible to find service. The Honda on the other hand can be repaired by just about any power sports dealer. The AT works fine and it will keep you going on the road.
Knuckle Head I agree 👏🏻
Is Missoula northwest enough, BMW/KTM dealer there that took care of me and my GS while doing the Idaho BDR.
This is the fundamentally annoying thing about these types of review: the journalists never consider real world ownership concerns which you highlight and acknowledge as important: dealer network, maintenance costs, etc.
This is why Japanese bikes are so popular: low barrier to entry, self-serviceable, dealer network, after market, etc.
Yes, the ST is a superior reliable beast. It is tall, so I can see that it might not be good for little guys, they might think it is heavier than it is.
I'll be getting the strom this year. If I had money coming out of my ears, I would get the GS though. Otherwise, the Strom always wins for me, against all others no matter the price (except the GS)
Great job on this one, guys! You addressed most of the previous complaints in your reviews, most notably, having all the obvious bikes in a segment present.
One thing I'm still disappointed in was that when asked which bike you'd buy with your own money, no one but Troy hesitated to go for the $25,000 bike. Really? No one would hesitate to spend twenty five grand on the bike that is ALSO probably they most expensive to maintain? Speaking of maintenance, no one seemed to consider ease or cost of long-term maintenance in their decision to buy one of these with their own money. Chain vs. shaft, Euro parts vs. Japanese, etc.
I also think you over-estimate how often these bikes would go off-road. (But kudos for testing them pretty hard there anyway!)
The praise for the BMW and how it carries it's weight makes me wonder why they don't also make an 800cc boxer twin that weighs 100 lbs less. And why does no one else (besides Ural) make boxer twins? Or at least flying Vees? (Like Guzzi)
I have a 2018 Multistrada Enduro Pro, it’s amazing! Best bike I have ever owned in my 35 years of riding motorcycles! It’s awesome both on the pavement and in the dirt, sand, rocks, whatever you want to throw at it!
This is great, but I can't wait to see the Africa Twin vs F850GS and Tiger 800.
I think they’re not giving the Tenere enough credit. One can argue about the design, but the Tenere is designed to be functional and durable. I believe next to the GS it was the only other bike with a shaft drive. The ST is a very forgiving bike in nasty conditions. The only thing that bothers me is that you have to spread your legs too much when putting your feet down this taking some stability.
I tried the Africa Twin DCT and what freaked me out was that it shifted while turning in a roundabout. As for the Suzuki, now that thing feels cheap! On the Autobahn at 130km/h the front was very uneasy. The Suzuki’s engine with the front muffler manifold the way it is looks like plumbing!
👍 for V Strom in price / performance perspective!
I have owned an Transalp, 2 Crosstourers and im now on a Multistrada 1260 ..... and loving it very much indeed...
I own a 2018 vstrom 1000. I am surprised that they rated it so highly amongst the company of other bikes but also very happy to know that it's not just me that considers it such a pleasure to ride. While I covert the GS and KTM, I can't justify the huge price increase for gains that would only be off road which is only 10% of my riding....think I will stick with the VStrom a little longer and just enjoy the journeys.
Rented a GS for a weekend. Took it back after a day. For me there was zero redeeming qualities about the GS. Give me a 1290 SAS any day. Glad to hear how far the V has come though. Tiger i still just can't quite like. Tried many many times. Haven't touched a AT yet, though I know it wouldn't be for me.
That's the second time I've seen an Africa Twin break its engine case on what was really a pretty mundane fall. Makes me really question its design and how offroad worthy it really is.
mld the Dct is on the right side. I do agree they did not factory protect as well, but there is plenty of aftermarket protection for it. Even a regular BMW 1200 GS would bleed on a fall as from factory, no boxer protection in a fall.
Just never get factory protection. Aftermarket is always better. The GIVI bars and skid plate would have covered that.
Why even DCT Honda? No need to reinvent the wheel.
Robert Polkamp automatics, done very well are better, faster, smoother. So I think they’ve been putting it in consumer bikes as a way to perfect it for their racing line. Imagine in motocross no longer having to worry about stalling, or any gear changing. I think it’d give them a good size advantage.
Here's another one, seems crazy that they can't handle a slow speed off! czcams.com/video/2S6hwq41Pok/video.html
I love the r1200 like everyone does that has rode one.
but I own a Vstrom 1000 which I love bc I got a super low mileage one cheap. After riding it for some time now I love it
Excellent video, one of the best this channel has put out yet. I would also agree regarding which motorcycle to choose based on the available budget.
Oooooh I test road a gs and gsa the other day, apart from anything else it was the braking that got me, zero dive, you feel so much control braking late into corners. Unbelievable bike! I know it’s expensive but if you can afford it crazy to buy anything else, if you can’t afford it there’s the vstrom, still looks a great bike for the money,
I bought a VStrom1000XT straight after testing, so I dont have any experience with other ADV bikes.
And surprise, I dont miss ANYTHING. Its a really great bike. I couldnt effort an more expensive bike anyway.
1000XT im with you. I originally purchased a vstrom 650 back in 2012 and absolutely loved everything about the bike. So when it came time to upgrade my first choice was the Vstrom 1000. I did take the Africa Twin for a test but having experienced the Vstrom brand I just trusted it. They are simply amazing bikes!
how are you going to miss anything if you dont have experience with ADV bikes?
I'm glad I don't have to choose between 6 or 7 bikes, I bought one of these bikes and I have fun on it, your body is going to adapt to any motorcycle once you ride it for quite a while, so pick the one you like the looks of and just have fun.
That is a very well done and funny review. Thanks guys!!!
Here in Brazil, we can't afford easelly the BMW, especialy the R1200GS... it's way too expensive! But, a Suzuki, is something more real and the opinion of you guys made my mind and my chosen one will be a V-Strom (maybe a 650 for financial reasons rs)
Nationality is irrelevant. The BMW is a poser's bike, in the main. Too pricey, too 'darling', and too demanding.
Super Tenere 1200.👍
Wow! I did not know how great my GSA was comparison to the others! Keeping it :)
Thanks for all the hard work... riding
KTM 1290 Adventure S is the king of this group, hands down, no contest. Unless you are doing serious loads of off road, the S is all the bike one would ever need.
no, KTM engine gives out a lot of heat for city ride while GS doesn't do that.
Apart from the last vote you seen to have made your decision on which bike is best rather than which one you would buy, unless you're all very highly paid.
Also, running costs of GS are astronomical and when it's out of warranty you better own a gold mine.
For a road bike, the Suzuki seems to be the one to buy and run within a normal salary range.
Ive had a GSA for years now. Astronomical running costs are a cliche and an internet myth. KTM is far worse. I speek from experience.
I like the quiet exhausts because nothing makes a critter crazier than loud pipes. Instead of stopping and listening, it panics and you get on to road pop moment.
Vstrom all the way and the 2020 model just enhances that
As a mechanic in this segment it needs to be an easy going tool and so the best hammer here is the Suzuki. Engine can withstand two nuclear explosions one after each other. Bulletproof and cheap as chips🙌🙌🙌
As an owner of two Super T's....yeah is it $6k worse than the Beemer? I just don't think so. I've ridden these for the last 5 years....put gas oil, filters and tires into it. How many GS owners can do that? The bike is great on the pavement and I've seen plenty of more than fire roads on it and it just keeps going.
Great video. Love these comparison vids
Glad you liked it.
WOW excellent shootout, great job!
This is the market segment people come to if they want to do serious cross country touring. I think it would be important to mention the superiority of shaft drive for that purpose. Chain maintenance on a long trip can be a hassle.
This video and my last one create an interesting juxtaposition!
The road part of this test and the multistrada is the only road going variant, the one with 17" rims but you would all spend your own money on the GSA off road variant!! (If we're talking road only) your words. it's a shame ducati couldn't supply the enduro to keep an even playing field. look forward to part two cheers guys.
Lol, dropping oil for this comparison is a tradition at this point. Tough luck, mates.
Super Ten I didn't like much. Didn't turn that well, really snatchy throttle in sport mode (and lethargic in touring)
New AT really disappointed me with ergos. I'm 6'5, and I can't fit on the new bike because my knees hit the new tank bulges.
1290 was just amazing. Most dirt bike-y big bike, and craziest engine of the ones I've ridden.
Never ridden the others, but the V-Strom is on of the very most comfortable for me. Tiger also very good.
Dumping oil is a tradition we're trying to break! LOL
GS fanboys! I sold my GS to buy a Super Ten. IMO it’s the best adv bike on the market. The weight distribution is outstanding and the bike is incredibly nimble and feels much lighter than it is -definitely not top heavy as claimed. Your biggest gripe is the exhaust sound. Seriously? You’d give an excellent performing bike with a history of bullet-proof reliability a bad review ‘cause you don’t like the way it sounds? 🤦🏼♂️
gs doesn't have good exhaust sound either, and triumph is heavier than s10, they mention it themselves, lol :). Journalism goes to abyss...
I picked the vstrom, and I'm vhappy
can't really go wrong with a Japanese bike
I have 4k miles on my 17 explorer xca. I did a 950 mile total two day trip up to West Virginia from Knoxville TN and I not once noticed any heat output on the machine. I don't notice the top heavy weight to it, I feel it to be very well balanced. I am a big boy at 6'2, 285lb so that admittedly helps. I rode the AT and didnt care for the performance on road of the larger 21" tire and lack of many features it had at launch including lower power.. I couldn't bring myself to spend thousands more for a base GS with no luggage when I purchased the tiger with 0%, and full luggage at no extra cost.
I would love a go on a the Multistrada and the KTM. I was in the industry for a while and never heard a good customer review of the Yamaha. When my current set of tires are worn, I'll be putting some off-road capable ones on the Explorer and seeing how it fairs in the dirt.
Thanks for the video.
Really happy to see some of the more accessible ADV bikes on this review. We all know the BMW and the Ducati are awesome, but few people have 18k to pay for a bike.
I somehow think Honda are glad it happened, Brian. Understand me right here? They now have something to take care of, fix and prepare for so it won't happen again. 3:38 They have to come up with some shield cover over the engine where your engine oil level window is, the place on the bike that he's talking about in the video. (Please remember me Honda Crew if you read this, thank you. A poster or something would be nice. Hehe. -I can help with a design for the protection cover!)
I read and watched many tests on the Super Tenere and never came across what you think about it. What's the problem? With the same kind of equipment the Triumph is much more expensive but it doesn't seem to count. That is really weird to me.
The XT1200 Super Tenere is simply the most underrated Adventure bike ever!
I have ridden the 1200gs and gsa and like them a lot. Looking forward to trying and training the gsa at RAWHYDE in a few months.
Tried out a 1200 gs today. Wow, what an amazing bike that is.
Yes there are better bikes than the Ténéré, but it's reliability is legendary ! I have 144 000km on my 2015 ES, and all I did on it is change oils, tires and brake pads. Never needed to adjust the valves. It' s very capable off road (better if you're a tall guy...). Can you say the same about the Beemer and KTM ? No sir !!
I have a ‘16 Tenere ES with SW Motech Adventure series panniers & top case and alt rider bars & skid plate. While at best I take the bike on light fire trails, as a long distance street touring bike it’s ideal for what I need. Smooth. Comfortable. Reliable. Functional. Enough power to cruise at 75MPH freeway speeds while weighed down all day. Would buy it again. Lesson is be sure to test ride all these bikes before making a final decision. I found motorcycles are so individualistic...what feels lackluster to one rider may be ideal to another based on needs and riding experience.
Super Gen is a great bike. Compared to my 1290, It is ole trusty reliable, but so heavy and a bit boring.
If reliability is not a high priority, buy anything you want. I'll keep my S10. Better? I don't know.
That’s pretty dumb if you haven’t done the plugs and air filter...
With all the traits they discussed about all the bikes, the fact that they didn't mention the difference between shaft drive and chain seems like a major omission to me. For distance touring chain maintenance ranges from an annoyance to a major problem depending on the situation. You want trouble free miles? Get the Tenere.
I can't agree when you guys say the S10 is top heavy. God damn! I have thousand of miles on the saddle of that bike, and also rode the GS and AT, (the At just test drive) and the s10 in NOT, by any means or standards top heavy, or for that matter uncomfortable (I did many 1000 Kms days on it no problem). I understand is not the bike with the most "bells and whistles" but its what it is (and everybody in the industry knows it): a honest, solid, loyal, a little rustic and tractor like, dependable machine. does not care about racing for HP, cares more on not leaving us stranded on the middle of nowhere. Trust me, I´ve been there! Of course I am also being a little biased (as everybody) and I don't know a thing about the other bikes (the T, the Ducati or the Strom (own a 650, not a 1000) ) but I know enough of traveling along side GSAºs, to know that when it goes wrong, IT GOES WRONG! Never, ever have I came across a broken down S10, anywhere! Also, comparing it with a Ducati which is the exact opposite (I could tell you lots of stories about the guys I come across, on the side of the road...). Well, im sure they did there best and this is me being envious. Opinions are like...
Totally agree, watch Fortnine's review. He is honest and not HP-horny!
noostNL I did. I love Fortnine’s reviews. And he’s s10 review is spot on, you are right!
Could the fact that the ST’s cases were filled up impact the bikes weight distribution feel compared to the other bikes during this test?
Stephen Romano the cases being full has an obvious impact on the weight distribution but, even then, I rode many thousands miles with the suitcases full to the top and it is no different from any bike. You can definitely feel the change in the weight distribution but, for example, its way less noticeable then in my old Vstrom. I cannot believe that this guys would do such a basic mistake, that is: to evaluate the COG of a bike, fully loaded, against bikes with no extra load. If buy any chance that happened it would explain a lot, but I don’t even consider it a possibility (given the fact that this guys are pros).
Even stranger. In the article they gave the Africa twin 10 more points for technology despite not having a center stand, shaft drive, cruise control or even tubeless tires.
what a great video, I am sure it was a joy to make.
I don't know what it is about the BMW vs the Ducati, but I road both and I fell in love with sound and character of the Ducati. It just makes me "wake up" every time I'm on it, and loath the moments when I have to get off. In my logical brain, BMW should have been what I bought...but my heart pulled out my wallet for the Ducati. Albeit I must admit, the Ducati's clutch is a little less forgiving than BMW's, but conversely that has made me a much confident shifter. It makes me more present on my decisions.
For the XTZ just put a arrow or some exhaust muffler to have a great sound :)
Wow I just purchased a 2023 Yamaha Super Tenere and your video makes me feel like I purchased a piece of crap and a big financial mistake. I am stuck with the bike for at least 5 years. Thanks, I pick the Tenere because I am sick of chains, love the drive shaft.
They are just permanently rigid for the shiniest, most feature rich, and most expensive thing in front of them It cost more so it must be the best, right? You did great with the Super Tenere because you got all the important features of the BMW, with the added bonus of better reliability, and you did it at a significant savings! Go enjoy that Tenere!
You got the best ADV bike ever made. Don't listen to the journalist
Like for Buell Ulysses t-shirt! ))) I keep mine for 12 years and it still works well even for light off road
bravi bel video I can't wait to see the second part
Hands down, the most mechanically reliable touring bike out of this bunch is the Yamaha Super Tenere!
Have you forget that zhey also have a VStrom in it? Far longer running platform than the Tenere.
In all the forums for both the Yamaha and Suzuki you'll see frequent tales of mega-mile riders, putting on well over 200K miles on both. Countless bike running around without issues with over 100K miles. Reliability should be extremely high on anyone's list when buying in this category. The "best" title can't be given to most of these bikes if they are in the shop hoovering your bank account and keeping you from just going out and riding!
Thank you 😊 I have been waiting on this video review for so long now! Thanks a million
Love the Buell shirt.
The Suzuki VStrom needs way more credit. It handles itself well and is easily the cheapest version by far. Nearly less than half than some of the others.
Principal I hope you’re saying this after having spent some fair time riding some of the other bikes, especially the GS. Otherwise you’re at risk of being a fanboy.
People talk shit because Suzuki doesn't push the envelope with crazy design features. But Suzuki makes dependable bikes, with predictable enough design to work on, and they're reliable and can run a long time with regular maintainence. And as you said, they're cheap compared to their competitors.
I guess I'm kind of a Suzuki guy at this point.
@@SuperBardley ...BMW is clearly the best but you gotta be lucky to get one of the reliable GSes, there a plenty of people who's GS turned into maintenance nightmares, don't think many V-Strom owners ever have a problem. And it costs far less both to buy and to repair (in case sth breaks) a Suzuki.
However, after the release of the 790 Adventure R, there is only one possible choice in the ''Adventure" bike market for me ... presently i ride a 640 Adventure, so I know how heavy 158kg dry weight can be off the road, I cannot even imagine what 250kg feel like offroad.. :-)))
The Honda Africa Twin brought undone on its first spill. Flimsy cover plate that still managed to fail on a mild impact, despite both bash plate and crash bars installed... when the impacting object was a mere tree root. Total fail.
@@SuperBardley never rode a GS, cause i live on gulligans island but i trust people who say its the best ever compromise for long haul traveling
Having owned a Beemer and a ‘Strom, I have to say that the Beemer is a great bike (I put over 160 000 kilometers on mine). However, I have a tad over 200 000 kilometers on ‘Stroms and by far, the cost of ownership is astoundingly less, and the support “ out there” is equal to the Beemer’s. Depending on the weight of your wallet, for me, the ‘Strom is hands down the winner - I hope to have one in my garage for the duration of my riding time . . .
I am GS reider and owned a Strom before. I can admit everything. My next bike will be Strom again.
Long story short after binge watching videos on the Honda the DCT can be an issue on true off road use but great for normal use with some complaints with protection against the elements and the seat not being very comfortable but the Suzi always gets a solid review
Great review
Love my 2012 vstrom... 88k Miles and never an issue... has taken bad spills and even hit by a left turning car this past March which totally crushed my right pannier... but that is what saved my leg...
Anyway at least 6k Miles on gravel roads crossing 4 providence's and zig zagging Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas daily.
I've ridden the 2018 and love it. I almost bought a tricked out 18 in Calgary 3 mo this ago but didnt have the cash on hand... too bad for me as it was a smoking hot deal... oh well. I will own a 18 soon.
But for me... IF I had 20 k to spend I'd go KTM super S, loaded... with 160hp and the suspension upgrades that would be my choice but REALITY strikes... I love riding and have owned a motorcycle of some type 35 years now and never once have I owned anything close to 16grand... heck my strom was a garage find... 1 year old with 88 miles on it for 6100 bucks loaded with tourtech risers, skid, bars, suzuki panniers and all I added was a mad stad adjustable windshield cause I'm 6.3..
For the price.. the 2018 Vstrom kicked all the others in the teeth...
Great review. The Super 10 will be running strong long after the boxer is in the junk yard.
Great I will also go with the Vstrom and ad an Akrapovic just becasue the price performace is great (had 2 old models and liked it) . Father in law went with the GS 2018 model but to expensive for me.
The top ten number of recalls from 2006-2016 per brand (Visordown): Yamaha 49, BMW 44, Kawasaki 37, Honda 33, Ducati 32, Triumph 29, Suzuki 23. Build quality is important but reliability is pretty important too.
Do the same with the middle weight ADV s too please !!
Yes, please. Trying to decide between the gs800a, tiger 800 xca (or xrt), and the ktm 1090a at the moment. Mostly road use, but I want to tackle the Trans Wisconsin Adventure Trail at some point.
FYI, the V-Strom engine is pretty nice.
Plus, hey there, from SW WI.
Wait for the KTM790 first.
RealBigTuna I rode both the gs800a and 1090 and ultimately went with the 1090, it feels way more at home off road and gives off more of a personality. I can see it being difficult to manage for anyone under 6 feet tall however but for me 6’5” 220 it’s by far the most fun I have had on what would be considered a larger adv (never wanted anything larger than a 690 before I test rode the 1090). I’ve had the bike for 3 weeks and just hit 3k miles. it’s my daily and I just can’t seem to get off the bike:
Jamie Carlyle I love the KTM..But it looks like an off-road biased machine l!! I wanted to get a machine that is good for touring and can tackle off-road sections as well !! Test rode the tiger and it's so good ..!!