Discussion
You'll be wanting to talk to these fellas then http://www.ukgser.com/forums/ There has been a history of electrical issues on newer BMWs with the fly by wire system so well worth doing your research
Edited by RizzoTheRat on Tuesday 30th September 18:34
If you are worried about getting bored with a 1200, then I'd suggest looking at the 800GS. I'm biased, but I reckon it's the better bike. It's not quite as good for long distance touring, but still excellent, but can be thrown about like a super moto when you feel like ragging it, can be taken off road like a big dirt bike and works very well for practical commuting type applications.
And for the money you'd pay for a 1200, you could get an 800 along with all the paniers, guards, upgrades and accessories you'd need to tailor it to you liking. Add in the fact that BMW insurance will insure it for £285 fixed and it's a bit of a bargin.
And for the money you'd pay for a 1200, you could get an 800 along with all the paniers, guards, upgrades and accessories you'd need to tailor it to you liking. Add in the fact that BMW insurance will insure it for £285 fixed and it's a bit of a bargin.
The two guys I know with them (and their predecessor 1150s, they won't choose anything else) are both huge blokes. I can see why they appeal to them, since 'normal' bikes are like minimotos to these guys, but there's a definite Marmite thing about them. Neither will think of any other bike. Both commute through London on them - the massive road presence can be useful there I suppose.
The bike would be too big for me though. If I had the height and muscle to throw one around, it'd make sense, but for average sized riders the other models seem to be more appropriate
The bike would be too big for me though. If I had the height and muscle to throw one around, it'd make sense, but for average sized riders the other models seem to be more appropriate
cyberface said:
The two guys I know with them (and their predecessor 1150s, they won't choose anything else) are both huge blokes. I can see why they appeal to them, since 'normal' bikes are like minimotos to these guys, but there's a definite Marmite thing about them. Neither will think of any other bike. Both commute through London on them - the massive road presence can be useful there I suppose.
The bike would be too big for me though. If I had the height and muscle to throw one around, it'd make sense, but for average sized riders the other models seem to be more appropriate
BMW have just started doing a short arse version which has the lower seat and reduced spring height depending on model.The bike would be too big for me though. If I had the height and muscle to throw one around, it'd make sense, but for average sized riders the other models seem to be more appropriate
IMO GS's are bikes that grow on you. Admittedly they're not the fastest in the world and the looks are an acquired taste, but they're loads of fun at lower-than-hypersonic speeds and aren't upset by with less than track-smooth tarmac (as they should be given the marketing hype). The engine takes some getting used to (but isn't quite as agricultural as its painted) and there are a couple of known reliability issues but as ever the complainers out-shout those who are satisfied.
If you're contemplating touring they're great and in my opinion not as bland as some of the large dedicated tourers (other BMWs included).
I've had some serious sportsbikes in my time but always felt that I couldn't use them to anymore than a fraction of their full potential on the road. I don't feel that way about the GS
If you're contemplating touring they're great and in my opinion not as bland as some of the large dedicated tourers (other BMWs included).
I've had some serious sportsbikes in my time but always felt that I couldn't use them to anymore than a fraction of their full potential on the road. I don't feel that way about the GS
Gassing Station | Biker Banter | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff