“The BMW R1200 GS ADVENTURE TE, yes it is expensive but it is an awesome machine, which does exactly what it says on the box. Its comfortable, powerful, handles extremely well, economical and can carry more stuff than you can sensibly pack for any road trip.”
“I wish I had gone with another RT1200 like the one I traded in for the GS1200 the GSM is hard to clean and the screen is fixed apart from the small know to move it up and down. The RT gave better all weather protection and the electric screen is much easier when to move when you come to a populated area.”
“This is a very expensive long distance touring machine. For the very high price tag bmw charge you would expect an uber conformable bike you can ride for hundreds of miles none stop, with a superb quality fit and finish!
Unfortunately you don't get either of these things! The bike is all round very plastic! Panels don't line up properly and the gaps between panels are uneven. The speedometer binnacle let in rainwater and misted up and had to be fixed more than once.
The paintwork is best described as industrial with visible sags on the engine where the paint has been put on too thick and has started to run. The paint on the body work has the opposite problem being so thin you can just see a hint of the primer showing in places. The panels have not been sprayed fully edge to edge and poor panel fit means prime can clearly be seen on some joints.
The engine vibrates a lot! And is way behind the competition in terms of refinement ! This combined with a very notchy stiff gearbox makes the bike tiring to ride.
The seat which has never been a bmw strong point is no better than its predecessors.
Despite all its sophistication the suspension is also a big dissapointment. Even the softest setting is way too hard and you find yourself tensing as you approach even minor imperfections in the road, in preparation for a tooth loosening jolt!
In short 50 to 60 miles between comfort breaks is about the best you can manage on this bike. Numb fingers from the engine vibration along with a very painful ass and lower back and you soon find your self praying for traffic lights to change to red so you can get a minute or two respite from the pain.
This bike is not an enjoyable bike to ride!”
“Great bike, especially for touring. Comfortable, great protection from the elements, fast enough. Handles well for a big bike. Great 2 up. Big step forward over previous model. Love the cruise control for motorway work.
Negatives. None really other than could do with a bit less weight and not the bike for scratching”
