GS-ness on the horizon....

[Steve1200S]

Once again my 1150RT has died (fast lane cutout at rush hour anyone?), so after owning it for 6 months, its gona go....

its back at the dealer and they may well be keeping it (very almost full refund has been offered twards something else).

I have a few options, including a swap for a similar but better condition 1150RT,but ive decided to upgrade to a 1200.

Although i wasnt too impressed with a 1200RT i test rode (didnt get on with the electronic suspension gizmo, couldnt get it on a nice setting and i dont think its necessary....).

Im thinking about a 1200GS with full panniers, or a standard suspension RT if i can test one.

The 12S will going as part of the deal too, just want one bike that i can use every day for work and still enjoy at weekends and tour on.

Anyone gone to a GS from an RT or a 12S?

They've lent me a 650GS, and although very small and slow, its a hoot to ride! Struggled with the front on fast corners, which im not sure is the traditional forks, or the big wheel...



Any comments on early 1200GS's would be appreciated.

Cheers,
Steve.

[Blackal]

There's not much to say about them - great bikes, with remarkable agility and load-carrying.

If you are selling your S to fund it - you could be going for a 2008-on model?

Have a serious thought about panniers - the varios, while being clever - are heavy as hell, before you even start to load them. Also extremely wide in extended mode. There are plenty of options in the Aly-pannier market (ArdCases, Bhegrs, Holan etc) which, although don't go off and on the bike so quickly - hold more and are lighter.

Al

[leasky]

I went for a GSA (to keep the miles down on my Mamola) and simply love the bike. To be honest I am using it more then the Mamola just because it is so good to ride. Maybe not as nibble as the standard GS but a lot of fun never the less.

My one came with the Vario system but I suppose weight is relative.

I have no regrets in buying the bike and hope to move up to the twin cam version next year.

Have you looked onto the UKGSER site? Plenty of thoughts and pointers on there for any potential owners.

Good luck.

[Blackal]

I would say, that if you plan on doing 2-up touring - then the Adv is the better bike (or you take the contents of your average Dixons with you ).

Otherwise - the standard GS is the better bike, and more useable too.

Pilot Road 3 and Roadsmarts are available for them (and the old Avon Azero/storm combo) - although the original Tourances (and their younger sibling) are a tough act to beat.

If you're not bothered about ABS - it could be worth your while seeking out a non-ABS model. They seem to be a bit unpopular with most buyers.

There are plenty of GS-owners on here - that's for sure, and I don't think there is a single one - who regrets ownership.

Al

[timbox2]

Full service history a must, and I too would try and avoid pre 08 bikes, lots of failing Servo Abs problems(The later ABS II arent immune but less likely) and fuel pump controllers, also like some of the other boxers of that vintage, the final drive was supposedly sealed for life, get proof the oil has been changed as well as Brake fluid at first year and bi-annual subsequently.

I too would avoid ESA at that age, again the later ESA2 is lots better, but you talk of a "Daily Rider", how much mileage do you do a year?

I know Im commiting heresy but I might look at other makes for an everyday bike, or an 1150 without ABS, its a bit luck of the draw, I recently met a guy in his 70's who had put 70K on an R12RT in 2 years without an Issue, my mate up the road from me has just got rid of his for a Kwak, as he had 4 sets of switches, an ABS module and 2 final drives over 12k and 2 years.

Thing is, they are so damn good when they are going, personally Id like a GS with my K bike engine

[Steve1200S]

Sounds like a good plan so far....

I love my 1150RT, just not had a clear month without something going wrong....

Mileage, I do about 150miles a week, not including weekend rides, and the occasional work trip to Manchester or London. I want to tour more too, but after the first go on the 1150RT (ended with a 12hour ride home from Scotland with the AA) I'm not prepared to for on it, as I'm sure something else would go wrong.

Needs big panniers and top box to take helmet and riding gear in while I go to meetings.

I'd like to stretch to a GSA, wire wheels are cool! But a standard GS would prob be better for me. I use to ride enduro and would like to go off road on some easy lanes too, but will probably resist to keep the bike in good nick.

Also, if I decide to really upgrade, a K1600 would be within reach. I'm guessing a GS would offer more weekend fun though... Plus I love a good boxer engine!

Also, I'm after a dealer bike with 13months warranty and recovery, I know second hand is cheaper but I want the security If its a work bike... So far there's a 1200RT and a 1200GS at the dealer I e got my eye on, both FSH and 12months warranty, and I can afford either without going into finance.

Still having fun buzzing around on the 650!

[slparry]

small wave to point you to an F800GS as an alternative ......

[ianc53]

Went from a 1100S to a GS, and then another GS. I know everyone has one, but they are good. They've done everything I've asked of them, solo and two up, including 700+ mile days. My 1100S will always be the 'favourite' though.

Cheers

Ian

[Steve1200S]

small wave to point you to an F800GS as an alternative ......

I've thought of it, need a boxer though! coming around to the idea of a GS though, got a few to choose from at the dealer, so we'll see tomorrow when i go to see them.

[slparry]

great engine with none of the boxer problems and fantastic fuel economy?

[Steve1200S]

true, but if i didnt want a boxer, honestly i'd probably not have a BMW at all....

An 800 tiger would probably come higher up the list tbh.

We'll see, ideally the 1150RT will be fixed fully this time, then i wont have to worry about which bike to get for another year or so!

[boxerscott]

I Thoght this site was for free spirits, men who wanted to be different, WTF is this GS thing all about? If you want a wavey waftey ride go and take a ride up top on a double decker bus Jesus Christ..those ally panniers, they really take the biscuit. Would align myself to HD and Tassles any day.

[Blackal]

I Thoght this site was for free spirits, men who wanted to be different, WTF is this GS thing all about? If you want a wavey waftey ride go and take a ride up top on a double decker bus Jesus Christ..those ally panniers, they really take the biscuit. Would align myself to HD and Tassles any day.

You're cutting off your nose................

The sad fact is - that the GS1200 is probably the best all-rounder.

I didn't like the 800 engine, but maybe that's because I'm used to the torque of the 1100/1200?

For two-up with luggage, I think the 1200 is a must.

Al

[dave1100s]

Or a nice late GS1150 ADV or even an GS1150 ADV-SE would be my choice

[DaveH]

Any comments on early 1200GS's would be appreciated.

Cheers,
Steve.

I wouldn't go for an early 1200GS - they had gearbox and final drive problems right up to 2009...you may buy a good one, but it will cost ££££ to sort if it does go.

Have a look on the GS forum for tales of woe.

Oh, the very early ones with ABS had the shite servo assisted brakes as well...don't even think about it : I speak from personal experience.