Should I buy a GS?

[mistral]

I have a R1200CL and a LT. I had the hots for the R1200R as something lighter. I went to the motorcycle show and slung a leg over the GS thinking it was an R1200R. It felt good as I am 6'5". I then checked out the R1200R and it did not feel as good. I know they are different bikes. I would mainly do street riding. So how do you guys like the GS?

Thanks,

Ron

[messenger13]

A GS will be my next addition to the stable. If you decide on a GS, your next decision will be a GS, or a GSA. What to do...what to do? :D

[Ruben]

I have a R1200CL and a LT. I had the hots for the R1200R as something lighter. I went to the motorcycle show and slung a leg over the GS thinking it was an R1200R. It felt good as I am 6'5". I then checked out the R1200R and it did not feel as good. I know they are different bikes. I would mainly do street riding. So how do you guys like the GS?

Thanks,

RonI like it! I'm no fan of the boxer engine, but in the GS it works pretty well. Low RPM power isn't as strong as I'd hoped, but them my GT and my Goldwing have me spoiled in that respect. The GS will turn in a much tighter slow speed circle than either of my other bikes, and it's plumb easy.

Once I learned how to mount it, I didn't want to get off. The seat is the most comfortable stock seat that I've had in a while (my '04 GT wasn't bad, the 'wing's was poor, my current GT is "fair" at best). It'll comfortably do triple digit speeds, and gets good fuel mileage, and of course, GREAT range due to the huge fuel tank.

I had some boxer vibration in the grips (I HATE vibration!!!!), mostly minimized with grip wraps from California Sport Touring. The GSA provides great protection from wind and weather on the legs, and fair on the torso. I'm tall in the body, although I'm only 6' 1" tall, and I find the wind blast a bit noisy at interstate speeds of 80 MPH or so. I have a laminar lip on order that should cure that, as I've had success with them in the past.

I rode sunup to well after sundown this past Saturday and Sunday, and really didn't want to stop. I still was wanting to ride. I can NOT ride my GT that long, although I can my 'wing, but the wing has a custom seat.

Go for a test ride, then you'll know. I test rode one of the GSA's in the BMW test fleet at Daytona Biketoberfest and couldn't wait to get back home to buy one. The GS is a bit lighter, but you get a LOT of extra goodies for the small difference in price when you go with the GSA. I have no illusions about this being a dirt bike, but it is a great all around street bike. Sure wish it had cruise control though. :D

[usmctpdog]

If you are tall I would also suggest you try a Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Adventure Touring bike.... I loved mine...

Great handling, no mechnical problems and cheap to keep.


Only reason I sold mine is a guy came up & made me a Great $$$ offer I could not refuse!!

[jgburns]

I'm not a boxer fan, but it works on the r1200r, r1200GS/GSA. I suggest you test ride each of these bikes. Like you, I'm looking for something lighter, and I plan to keep my LT. I'm just over 6' and all three bikes fit my frame. I had the most fun on the twisties riding the roadster (BMW nailed it) -- it feels better while moving. The GS handles better on a hard dirt trail than the GSA IMO. The GSA is a BAD ASS looking bike -- I'm smitten by it's looks and it feels more stable on the highway (to me) than the GS.

Best wishes sorting it out. I'm stumped for time being.:confused:

[sfarson]

I have a R1200CL and a LT. I had the hots for the R1200R as something lighter. I went to the motorcycle show and slung a leg over the GS thinking it was an R1200R. It felt good as I am 6'5". I then checked out the R1200R and it did not feel as good. I know they are different bikes. I would mainly do street riding. So how do you guys like the GS?

Thanks,

Ron

I'm 6'4" and if only bike could be in the barn here it would be the GS. It is a great bike for all kinds of roads (Including street), all kinds of riding intents, and it fits taller riders better than many, many other bikes. Coming from your other bikes, the light weight will be a revelation.

[tmgs]

I have a R1200CL and a LT. I had the hots for the R1200R as something lighter. I went to the motorcycle show and slung a leg over the GS thinking it was an R1200R. It felt good as I am 6'5". I then checked out the R1200R and it did not feel as good. I know they are different bikes. I would mainly do street riding. So how do you guys like the GS?

Thanks,

Ron

I love them both the GS and GSA

find a dealer that will let you ride one up the highway and around town for a bit, I know of two people that did not like the GS at all one bought a GT the other bought a RT instead

I personally like the GT and RT but chose the GSA the wife chose the GS you might sell the CL after getting a GS/GSA

Tom

[dronning]

After getting the GS Adv I sold my '05 LT 'cause I wasn't riding it anymore.

Being 6'5" you may want to check out the GS Adv too which would give you a little more leg room.

Warning! if you aren't serious about buying don't test ride one or you will be making room in the garage.

Dave

[UncleRock]

A GS will be my next addition to the stable. If you decide on a GS, your next decision will be a GS, or a GSA. What to do...what to do? :D
Don't think like me Joe, you'll get in trouble. :D
Exactly what he said.
I have had a hard on for this New Connie since announced. Just recently it dawned on me, that no matter how fast the bike is, when I pull my camper 80mph max (tire rating)
Sunday I dumped my K75 out in the woods after a semi controlled 100' down hill slide. Nothing more than a bruise here and a bent light bracket. I couldn't help but thinking any bike with more aggressive tires would have rode that out.
I was looking at gs and other multi use bikes when I picked up the little K-75 around town ride.
Rock

[ranks]

If I could only have one bike, it would be my GS.
I've had it a little over a year, and its the best all round, do everything, general purpose bike I have ridden.

It is light, nimble, will handle fire roads, off road (if you have the skill, which I really don't, but manage to get off road once in a while, at slow speeds).

It doesn't like the soft stuff, sand, mud, etc.

If you're going to do alot of long distance, think GSA, bigger tank, more range, better wind protection. If not, the GS is narrower, lighter, and more nimble.

Either GS, or Vstrom, or WeeStrom (DL650), are great choices. Multistrada aint bad for a street only bike, either.

Whichever you choose, enjoy, and ride it like you stole it !!

[ronk1200lt]

I am 6"4" and just bought a GSA. I took a GT, FJR1300, ST1300 and the GSA all out for a test ride. The GSA got the nod because of way superior ergos for a big guy and the bikes go anywhere do anything utility. Its downside is the motor. A twin just can't compare to the smoothness and power delivery of a four. I will keep my LT as a second bike, but would imagine that most of my future miles will be on the GSA.

[sfarson]

... Its downside is the motor. A twin just can't compare to the smoothness and power delivery of a four. I will keep my LT as a second bike, but would imagine that most of my future miles will be on the GSA.

To be sure, some prefer the power delivery of the characterful twin. Combined with the lighter weight of the GS ADV, the power to weight difference versus the LT is striking. Don't have the GS ADV performance specs in front of me, but the close 12GS out hustles the LT easily in every measure... 0-60, 0-100, 1/4 mile, top speed, etc. according to MCN. Love the linear thrust of I-4's like the one in my I-4 K1200S, and I'm sure LT, but also adore the charm of the light and torquey boxer twin.

[JBGHEAT]

Hey Mistral-Weren't you considering selling either your CLC or your LT a while back?

[Texas42]

I replaced my Sprint ST with a GS, it is just FUN, FUN, FUN but it is not a replacement for the LT. Cindy and I can ride the GS together but we enjoy the LT for two-up. You will love the GS.

[dronning]

For us and 2 up riding Kaye actually likes the GS Adv better than the LT. Just like riders I think the pillion has the same varying opinions. The ONLY thing she hated giving up on the LT was the heated backrest and I'm working on converting an auto heat element setup into a custom backrest.

Dave

[mistral]

Hey Mistral-Weren't you considering selling either your CLC or your LT a while back?

I was but I have some long trips planned on the LT and it is just too smooth to let go of. I put a Corbin seat on the CL and raised it about an inch and moved back an inch. It is now a totally different feel. It was just too cramped for my height.

It looks like I need to look seriously at the GS. Thanks to all for the input.

Ron

[BlackBMW]

To each their own but to me, the 1200 Boxer is a most useable powerplant. Torquey and quick off the line, great mid-range power and the motor really comes alive over 4500 rpm.

I used to own a 1150 ADV but switched to the 1200GS to gain in hp to weight ratio. The 1200 motor is far superior to the 1150 but for hp/weight alone, I prefer the regular 12GS to the 12GS ADV, too. 50/80 lbs plus the extra weight of the additional fuel the ADV holds make a big difference. The 12GS at around 500lbs is a fabulous machine and I still get 225-250 miles per tankful (plenty for me).

My 2 cents...

[Nodakgus]

I like it! I'm no fan of the boxer engine, but in the GS it works pretty well. Low RPM power isn't as strong as I'd hoped, but them my GT and my Goldwing have me spoiled in that respect. The GS will turn in a much tighter slow speed circle than either of my other bikes, and it's plumb easy.

Once I learned how to mount it, I didn't want to get off. The seat is the most comfortable stock seat that I've had in a while (my '04 GT wasn't bad, the 'wing's was poor, my current GT is "fair" at best). It'll comfortably do triple digit speeds, and gets good fuel mileage, and of course, GREAT range due to the huge fuel tank.

I had some boxer vibration in the grips (I HATE vibration!!!!), mostly minimized with grip wraps from California Sport Touring. The GSA provides great protection from wind and weather on the legs, and fair on the torso. I'm tall in the body, although I'm only 6' 1" tall, and I find the wind blast a bit noisy at interstate speeds of 80 MPH or so. I have a laminar lip on order that should cure that, as I've had success with them in the past.

I rode sunup to well after sundown this past Saturday and Sunday, and really didn't want to stop. I still was wanting to ride. I can NOT ride my GT that long, although I can my 'wing, but the wing has a custom seat.

Go for a test ride, then you'll know. I test rode one of the GSA's in the BMW test fleet at Daytona Biketoberfest and couldn't wait to get back home to buy one. The GS is a bit lighter, but you get a LOT of extra goodies for the small difference in price when you go with the GSA. I have no illusions about this being a dirt bike, but it is a great all around street bike. Sure wish it had cruise control though. :D

Last November I acquired an 06RT. I am pleased with this bike (my 4th). But I am beginning to wonder if I did not make a mistake in not buying the GS. I have read a lot about the GS/GSA and the prospects of touring on pavement and off pavement with one bike is an interesting situation. The GSA looks like nothing else on the road. I would think that one could purchase the usual touring tires for general use and pop the knobbies in for off-road fun and trips.

[usmctpdog]

Since I am now Riding alone as my S/O loves riding her own bike and we just got her a *Spankin New to us 05 FJR my additional next bike in the garage is another Adventure bike !! Either a GS or Ulysses.

Hard to beat the combination of a practical do everything bike

[sfarson]

Last November I acquired an 06RT. I am pleased with this bike (my 4th). But I am beginning to wonder if I did not make a mistake in not buying the GS. I have read a lot about the GS/GSA and the prospects of touring on pavement and off pavement with one bike is an interesting situation. The GSA looks like nothing else on the road. I would think that one could purchase the usual touring tires for general use and pop the knobbies in for off-road fun and trips.

Fortunate to ride both. The GS ADV is here for a key reason -- the abundance of off road/forest road rides in the Rockies I'm reluctant to take the RT down. There's something very appealing about knowing any road is fair game. Plus it is a roomy, gnarly looking thang. However, take nothing away from the RT. Its road ride is sublime as you know. And while the GS ADV has great wind management (The 12GS less so), it isn't on par with the RT. The RT is unsurpassed as a road and distant going thing imo.

[Ruben]

Last November I acquired an 06RT. I am pleased with this bike (my 4th). But I am beginning to wonder if I did not make a mistake in not buying the GS. I have read a lot about the GS/GSA and the prospects of touring on pavement and off pavement with one bike is an interesting situation. The GSA looks like nothing else on the road. I would think that one could purchase the usual touring tires for general use and pop the knobbies in for off-road fun and trips.Actually, my GSA came with dual purpose tires, (Anakee). They are much better on paved roads than knobbies, and a pretty fair street tire. They are much better in the dirt than most street tires, although not in the same class as knobbies. Saves changing from one to the other. Knobbies wear very quickly in paved roads, and are noisy.

I don't know yet what to expect for tire wear, but I had similar tires (Bridgestone Trailwings) on a DL-1000 V-Strom that went over 9,000 miles, and weren't to the wearbars yet. Unless I get surprised by short tire life, I expect that I'll keep using these dual purpose tires.

[tjc9680]

Previous Harley owner for many years . Tired of the culture and the factory run around. Bought 2006 65o GS and had so much fun riding again I traded for 2006 1200 Gs . The best riding experience I've had in years it does everything. :dance:

[brasters]

To correct the info above, this is quoted from BMW's own site.

"Using lighter components on the engine, transmission and exhaust damper, as well as weight-optimised components such as the frame, suspension and wheels, the new R 1200 GS Adventure, despite a wider range of series equipment, does not weigh much more than the previous "basic" R1200GS model.

The most important highlights of the new R 1200 GS Adventure versus the "standard" R 1200 GS:
• 33-litre (7.3 Imp gal) fuel tank.
At a steady speed of 90 km/h or 56 mph, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a - theoretical - cruising range of 750 kilometres or 465 miles.
• Larger windshield.
• Tank, engine and valve cover protectors.
• Stainless-steel luggage rack.
• Adjustable seat with offroad ergonomics.
• Adjustable aluminium handlebar with hand protectors.
• Longer spring travel for superior offroad qualities.
• Cross-spoke wheels.
• Extra-wide rider footrests, adjustable gearshift and brake levers.
• High-performance 720 W alternator.

The most significant technical highlights of the new R 1200 GS Adventure versus the former R 1150 GS Adventure:
• Substantial reduction in weight.
• Significant increase in output (plus 15 per cent) and torque (plus 17 per cent).
• New six-speed manual gearbox.
• New Evo-Paralever with TDD spring struts.
• New Telelever.
• New instruments in digital technology with Info-Flatscreen.
• On-board single-wire network using CAN bus technology.
• Electronic immobiliser."

After having sport bikes, touring bikes and now the GSA, got to say, this GSA is the best all_around use bike I have ever ridden.

[tmgs]

To correct the info above, this is quoted from BMW's own site.

"Using lighter components on the engine, transmission and exhaust damper, as well as weight-optimised components such as the frame, suspension and wheels, the new R 1200 GS Adventure, despite a wider range of series equipment, does not weigh much more than the previous "basic" R1200GS model.

The most important highlights of the new R 1200 GS Adventure versus the "standard" R 1200 GS:
• 33-litre (7.3 Imp gal) fuel tank.



I have put 9 US gl in mine a fedw times now


At a steady speed of 90 km/h or 56 mph, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a - theoretical - cruising range of 750 kilometres or 465 miles.

[/QUOTE]

HAHAHAHAA No WAY unless it is all at 8k feet and down hill
• Larger windshield.
• Tank, engine and valve cover protectors.
• Stainless-steel luggage rack.
[/QUOTE]

additional cost

• Adjustable seat with offroad ergonomics.
[/QUOTE]

lousy ergonomics after 10k miles on it

• Adjustable aluminium handlebar with hand protectors.
• Longer spring travel for superior offroad qualities.
• Cross-spoke wheels.
[/QUOTE]

black wheels and front tubes too

• Extra-wide rider footrests, adjustable gearshift and brake levers.
• High-performance 720 W alternator.

The most significant technical highlights of the new R 1200 GS Adventure versus the former R 1150 GS Adventure:
• Substantial reduction in weight.
• Significant increase in output (plus 15 per cent) and torque (plus 17 per cent).
• New six-speed manual gearbox
[/QUOTE]


which has the same gear rqatios as the gs

• New Evo-Paralever with TDD spring struts.
• New Telelever.
• New instruments in digital technology with Info-Flatscreen.
[/QUOTE]

same as gs

• On-board single-wire network using CAN bus technology.
• Electronic immobiliser."

After having sport bikes, touring bikes and now the GSA, got to say, this GSA is the best all_around use bike I have ever ridden.[/QUOTE]


I have to agree

[OneShot]

Everyone I know that owns an 1150 GS is about 5'7". I'm amazed because I'm 5'11" w/32" inseam and have trouble getting on the GSA while on the center stand in the dealer's showroom.

You 6'4" guys are lucky. I'm afraid to make a $20K mistake by buying something that fights me every time I come to a stop, on or off road. If I want a fight I'd stay home with the wife. Any lowering suggestions?

I also want to mention to the original Poster here, if he has not seen Long Way Round, drop what you are doing and go rent the movie. It's a must see. Keep in mind the two actors are not 6' tall.

Advice: Do your research until you know every aspect of the bike you are thinking of buying to make sure your next purchase is not a mistake. I believe most are mistakes.
The only mistake I've NEVER made was buying my '96 Harley new.

Demo rides under 100 miles should be made illegal. :eek: Yah that's right Mr. Dealershipman, five mile demos are nothing but an ambush to get $20k out of you.

[Dewman]

At least the BMW dealers will let you take a bike for a test ride; that isn't so true with most other manufacturers.
I test rode a 2004 1150 GSA and really enjoyed the ride; the dealer did not have a 2007 1200 GSA in stock to test against the 2004 but the sales man tells me that there is a significant difference in the two bikes.

With 20,000 miles on my 05 LT I am in the state of what to do. So I guess I will put out a few feelers on interested parties for a loaded 2005 LT dark gray with new tires and all of the other extras that come with a 05 LT (intercom, 6 disk CD, Extended warranty, 18,000 mile service competed as well as all others up to date. Always stored inside and NEVER dropped. Asking $15,500 in Utah.

If interested please PM.
Dewman

[OneShot]

Smart dealers allow demo rides.

One of two local Harley dealers in my area is open on Sundays, encourages demo rides up front, and gives military discounts. The other dealer is closed on Sundays, will only let you test ride the bike you intend on buying at the negotiation stage, and does not give military discounts continually.

For me, there is only one Harley dealer in my area. :D