A bit scared 1300GS

[Jako999]

Hi it’s been a while since I’ve posted anything as 3 years ago I nearly died and after everything my f750 GS was just to much for in size and weight. I ended up buying a Triumph 900 Scrambler, the same weight but much more compact and lower.
After visiting the bike show last week I was amazed to find out that the triple black R1300GS version is 20mm lower then all the rest and with the suspension right down and a low seat I can touch the floor with the balls of my feet. I’m only 5’5” with a 28 inside leg, 60kg and not very strong.
I demoed one today and loved the ride apart from junctions and slow turns. I’m not that confident a rider I never have been, with the Triumph I can have roads of on road fun but I’m quite scared about the GS.
I know I can get higher soled boots but what else can I do, am I mad to get a new GS or not?
Thanks all.

 

[MotoRevive]

Honestly, pragmatically, It think it's too big and too heavy for you.

If your 750GS was intimidating, the 1300 will be a monster to deal with.

And what's the point of a bike your can't enjoy ?

There are so many excellent bikes out there which will fit you much better.

 

[Kitsilano]

Safety. First.

 

[siddo]

What number 2 said.
If I were in your position, I'd take additional 121 training to gain confidence, practice, skill and experience. Won't take long and then you'd be good.

 

[KJB]

I changed from a 1200 GSA because of weight and age ! To a 1300 GS TE find it excellent much lighter and more manoeuvrable test one before you jump

 

[Sneldog]

Don’t ask this forum. Just test ride one. Ask for it for half a day and see how you get on. I’m sure it would be fine for riding. Your issues may be around manoeuvring it when stationary or parked.

 

[karlp]

Buy a bike that you enjoy riding - if the 1300GS is too big it will end up staying in the garage as you will find every excuse not to ride it.

Do you need a big bike - I had loads of fun on a 350

If you are set on a 1300 - just remember you can get one that will lower when you come to a stop

 

[leadfarmer]

The boxer motor gives a low center of gravity which makes the the weight a lot more manageable than some similar bikes, the automatic suspension lowering also helps a lot

If the GS is still a bit tall why not try a 1300 R or RS ? Same stonking motor and same low c of g but lower seat height

Alternatively, if you can’t get an extended test ride (I borrowed a Goldwing for 4 days and decided not to buy it) maybe you could hire a 1300 GS for a few days and see if you get used to it before buying one, some dealerships rent them out

 

[Udders]

Sounds to me like you need a fair bit of solo training at low speed manoeuvres to get your confidence up.
The more you think you’re about to have a problem the worse you’ll get.

How about a big auto scooter like a Forza 750 or a T Max type bike?

 

[IrishGaucho]

Hi bud, it's totally doable.

See if this give you any inspiration:

Cheers!

 

[karlp]

maybe worth enrolling on the BMW Off Road school- you will learn a lot about bike control at low speed

 

[vRSG60]

Hmm
I’m about the same size as you and I can’t even move the R1300GS off the side stand.
I ride a reduced height R1200GSA


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[ymfb]

Consider some training to get your confidence up before buying something new.

There are lots of options out there RoSPA/IAM/Bikesafe/Rapid

 

[Gobsheen]

I got a 1300GS after many years off the road, I’ve 11k on it and love it but honestly, I don’t think it’s the best at slow manoeuvring- the older GS’s and older bikes in general were more natural. I don’t know if it’s the combination of late biting point and the linked brake setup….its not terrible but if you’re not comfortable in that area, as others have said, get time on one….I’d recommend renting before you buy for 3-4 days. Plenty in Spain…

 

[Jako999]

Thanks all really appreciate your comments.
I’ve found a used one a triple black with lots of extras including low suspension and low seat, only 6 months old and 2000 miles. It ticks all the boxes and instead of being 23k it’s up at 18k. I have no problem with my Triumph, I’m confident so may be a course would help.
I don’t know if to just buy this one because of the price and so on?
Thanks

 

[leadfarmer]

I don’t know if it’s the combination of late biting point and the linked brake setup

I found the clutch bite point was too far out even on the closest setting so I adjusted it, even if it’s not supposed to be adjustable, it actually is

This makes slow manœuvres much easier

Thread 'R1300GS clutch lever adjustment'

Apr 9, 2025

I’ve just adjusted the throw of my clutch lever to bring the bite point closer to the handlebar, I have the standard levers, not enduro and even on the closest of the 3 settings the bite point was too far out

Thought I’d post here how to adjust it further, BUT ! Before you touch your bike be aware that my dealer said the lever couldn’t be adjusted
The 1200s had the same system so this is nothing new but most folks aren’t aware of it

Disclaimer - it’s very simple to do but you need a bit of mechanical feel, if you aren’t confident with tools leave it alone!

Underneath the lever there...

• leadfarmer
• Replies: 34
• Forum: 1300 GS

• 

As for the brakes, ride in dynamic mode, the brakes will behave far more normally, in road mode the linked system intervenes too much for my liking

 

[casbar]

Thanks all really appreciate your comments.
I’ve found a used one a triple black with lots of extras including low suspension and low seat, only 6 months old and 2000 miles. It ticks all the boxes and instead of being 23k it’s up at 18k. I have no problem with my Triumph, I’m confident so may be a course would help.
I don’t know if to just buy this one because of the price and so on?
Thanks

You are nervous, you clearly want a GS, so you asked a question, hoping everyone would say "go for it". The advice you have received IMHO is sound. I just downsized my R1250RT due to weight. Nothing to do with confidence, I am IAM, RoSPA and completed Rapid. I just realised the bike was too heavy for me. Now enjoying a lighter ride.

 

[Posh Pete]

It sounds like you're having fun on your current bike? Why change? If it's just a matter of getting bored, the have a look around at smaller/lighter bikes which can be just as much fun. A Guzzi 850TT for example? Or hang onto your current bike and buy a Himalayan 450!

 

[siddo]

Thanks all really appreciate your comments.
I’ve found a used one a triple black with lots of extras including low suspension and low seat, only 6 months old and 2000 miles. It ticks all the boxes and instead of being 23k it’s up at 18k. I have no problem with my Triumph, I’m confident so may be a course would help.
I don’t know if to just buy this one because of the price and so on?
Thanks

Take additional training before buying another bike. There will still be deals on others, down the road.
Once you have enhanced your skills and confidence, take a long test ride and see how you get on with slow manoeuvres.
Probably a good idea to also join a gym and build some muscle and strength to manhandle a heavy bike.

 

[Blackblade-rry]

maybe worth enrolling on the BMW Off Road school- you will learn a lot about bike control at low speed

I did the ORS a few years back, and there were a number of ladies on the course, including one in the same group as me. She was slightly built, and maybe 5’3” or 4”. She was handling the 1250GS better than most of the chaps (and picked it up).
So I would agree that it’s technique and confidence that’s required if 1300 ownership is going to be successful, so get some training