2013 or 2015

[matchbox]

About to trade in a twincam R1200R for a GS TE. Tempted by a low mileage June '13 machine but could get a new 2015(?) bike. Question is, are this years bikes any better/more reliable having had initial bugs ironed out?

Anyone else switched from R1200R to a GS? Love my R but feel a GS, though a little heavier, would be more comfortable and lighter to ride?

Good forum..

 

[dave hendy]

I have a July 13 GS which I love, some bikes have a few issues but as you can test ride it you can make sure it's a good one. If you go for a new one you can get shift assist which I will have to wait for on my next bike as it can't be fitted to 13 reg bikes (14 MY ok).

I know which I would go for, depends on your budget though!!

 

[yankeedoodledandy]

If you're not interested in the quick shifter, the 2013 could be a good option, assuming it is not one of the few (percentage-wise out of 20k bikes) lemons. Test ride the 2013, even better also have someone you trust who knows the feel of the GSWs ride it as well, and see how the gearbox and clutch feel. I love my 2013, has been quite reliable with a gearbox that is decent but occasionally notchy. I couldn't tell the difference between it and the 2014 I rented for 1500 miles this past September. Some claim the 2015 gearbox is improved, but I've yet to test ride one so I can't say how it compares to mine.

 

[Georgeeboi]

I've just sold my 13 lc which I loved it was faultless I've ordered a 15 gsa just because I fancy a change I found the 15 engine a bit more refined than the 13 at lower speeds but as said it depends on budget but don't be put off by a 13 lc.

 

[DING-DONG]

My vote would be a late 14 bike if you can find one because it has the clutch update and it still has the light flywheel engine and the ability to have shift assist plus it will have the manufacture warranty still in place, alternatively as you have never tried the light flywheel engine so you will not notice the difference, go for as new as possible, i personally would only buy the one i can test ride, to eliminate the shite gearbox, look for corrosion on the engine and apart from that what ever you buy i hope you enjoy it.

 

[Deleted account 251212001]

Ive got a 2014 build bike and the gearchange was very crunchy at high revs, but a new clutch has sorted things. Many appear to have gremlins so a decent test ride where you get chance to thrash it would be wise (my gearbox was fine down the lower rev range) , if you are a remotely experienced biker you will know there is an issue if its a duffer.

Id be tempted to go new for a couple of grand more? by the time youve factored in a discount.

Either way, it really is a fantastic bike.

 

[Jumblemo]

I have a 2013 which is a fantastic and trouble-free bike. The light fly-wheel makes the engine a joy to Hoon around with. For me that's the killer issue otherwise I would have traded up to a newer bike with the quick-shifter. I'm increasingly convinced that the 2013 is the peak of GS evolution.

 

[Nutty]

Depends on cost. If the 15 is only a grand or two more than the 13, get the 15, as there have been several updates for the better.

 

[karlp]

Get the later model.

I have had both a 2013 and a 2014 model

Handling is better on the later model at speed

I needed washers fitting to the rear footrests to accommodate panniers. Later model fixed.

Can put gearshift assist on later model

Some will say these are not an issue - your choice

 

[pistole]

get the year 2014 model (when its manufactured is not material).

you can tell from the VIN .

 

[Voz]

Get the 15. You will never have to post about a clunky gearbox, lol.

 

[Wrinkly]

Hi Matchbox and welcome.

I see you're from N,YORKS.

Do your self a favour, go into Teasdales at Thirsk and give a Stelvio a good long test ride before making your decision.

Steve

 

[mcinlb]

Hi Matchbox and welcome.

I see you're from N,YORKS.

Do your self a favour, go into Teasdales at Thirsk and give a Stelvio a good long test ride before making your decision.

Steve

Heretic,,,, burn him.

 

[roundincircles]

Wait for the 16. Will be sorted.

 

[JohnnyBoxer]

Wait for the 16. Will be sorted.

Or the 2017

 

[Marius in Africa]

The vast majority of people purchase a BMW R1200GS as a toy to enjoy and have fun with!

Whether you purchase the 2013, 2014 or 2015 with whatever gizmos on is immaterial, the water cooled version is a quantum leap ahead of the air / oil cooled version. Purchase a clean model of which ever year you can get a good deal on and enjoy it.

All the other stuff like shift assist and this and that is just marketing to get hold of your money. Next year BMW will sure as hell bring out another gizmo to try and price more money from your wallet! That is the way the game is played, just enjoy whatever model you eventually get, it is a great bike. I love my 2013.

 

[gramshep]

I have a 2013 which is a fantastic and trouble-free bike. The light fly-wheel makes the engine a joy to Hoon around with. For me that's the killer issue otherwise I would have traded up to a newer bike with the quick-shifter. I'm increasingly convinced that the 2013 is the peak of GS evolution.

Totally agree with this view... G

 

[madmartin]

Get the 13lc if its a good ride. Engine with the lighter flywheel makes the twin quite sporty and a total joy. Also your not suffering a ton of depreciation as soon as you ride out of the stealers...
with the money saved get a set of headers.. and a pair of decent road tyres.

 

[matchbox]

Thanks for all your great replies. A great help and there seems very little against the '13.
Subject to a test ride later this week, I think I will go for that. It has already depreciated, is essentially as new and includes engine bars(?) and topbox. If I hate it after a few months I won't lose so much and could go back to the latest R1200R. And I can have in time for Christmas!

 

[dave hendy]

The R1200R with the LC engine should be a hoot!!

Your version was always a good choice as a pure road bike over the previous GS, it just wasn't loved by many in the UK.