differences

[happy pilgrim]

other than the obvious difference between standard 1200gs and adventurer. tank size ,bigger screen etc. what are the differences in riding? any? suspension different? thinking of trading up but will I be pleased or disappointed?

 

['Nuffsaid]

The most noticeable difference ( beside the increased size and the extra weight when fully fueled ) I found is the slight change in the geometry of the frame. The head angle is slightly slacker on the GSA giving it a more planted feel, it doesn't dive into corners quite as fast as a standard GS12 and feels more solid in a straight line.

Additionally , because of the suspension setup, there is more sag when you first sit on the bike (making it less daunting a height when you are in the saddle). Some will tell you the engine is different and the gear ratios are different, they aren't ! Have a look at the spec sheet on the Bee M website.

If you like GS's and their proportions, then you are likely I would think, to like the GSA, it is more of the same. For me, it's by far and away the best bike I have ever owned and can't think of a bike I would rather own. It has big personality, is really capable ( I rode one on the Level 1 off road course, and I only then appreciated what a hugely capable machine they are ), I use it for long distance commuting and will tour on it this summer - Whilst it isn't the best in every single category, it has got to be one of the best machines ever made IMHO.

Now bring on the gags from all the GS 1100 / 1150 owners .......

Steve

 

[Peter Pan]

The most noticeable difference .......

...... because of the suspension setup, there is more sag when you first sit on the bike .......

Steve

I thought that was more to do with the rider than the bike

 

[happy pilgrim]

is there actually a change in the geometry set up , or does it just feel like there is due to different tank sizes,windscreen etc.
i have had two " normal " 12's. just fancy the real McCoy?!

 

['Nuffsaid]

And the answer is .................

is there actually a change in the geometry set up , or does it just feel like there is due to different tank sizes,windscreen etc.
i have had two " normal " 12's. just fancy the real McCoy?!

GS1200
Suspension travel front / rear 190 mm / 200 mm
Wheelbase 1,507 mm
Castor 101 mm
Steering head angle 64.3°



BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
Suspension travel front / rear 210 mm / 220 mm
Wheelbase 1,510 mm
Castor 89 mm
Steering head angle 65.2°
Wheels Cross-spoke

 

[Shep]

is there actually a change in the geometry set up , or does it just feel like there is due to different tank sizes,windscreen etc.
i have had two " normal " 12's. just fancy the real McCoy?!

I had two of the budget 1200's before getting the 12ADV

It was a few months back now, and i don't regret it at all.

Pro's

Bigger tank (330mls till fill up)
Better looks (JMO of course.)
Better screen
Better panniers (metal mules)
More reliable (touch wood)
More stable to ride, (feels more of a bimbler than a scratcher. but has the feeling you could invade poland with one, sort of an unstoppable feeling the the 1200 basic hasn't got.)
Better ground clearance (see below)
For me, better suspension (when set at a suitable ride height, loaded, with plenty of ground clearance, the ride is plush, while the same set up with the older bikes would have left the ride harsh)

Cons

Heavier (esp with a full tank)
A bit slower (see above)
Too tall (sometimes)
Harder to clean (so i've not really bothered much beyond salt protection and maintenance)
Lots of them about nowadays

Shep

 

[happy pilgrim]

nuffsaid... i'm impressed
shep... fuel/speed cureable i suppose by not fully filling up unless doing serious distance. for just commuting etc could be partially filled. bit of a pain in the ass/defeats the object of bigger tank. but probably more easy to handle on filtering/daily commute?

 

['Nuffsaid]

More stable to ride, (feels more of a bimbler than a scratcher. but has the feeling you could invade poland with one, sort of an unstoppable feeling the the 1200 basic hasn't got.)
Shep

You are so right ..... I can't seem to find Gdansk on my TomTom Rider though .....

 

[Shep]

nuffsaid... i'm impressed
shep... fuel/speed cureable i suppose by not fully filling up unless doing serious distance. for just commuting etc could be partially filled. bit of a pain in the ass/defeats the object of bigger tank. but probably more easy to handle on filtering/daily commute?

I don't notice the extra weight when moving its just if you have to manouver in tight spaces or if off road and a bit off camber its extra few kg's don't help.

I still fill the bike to the brim every time and carry too much in the panniers, so its still manageable. I was just commenting on the differences between the two models really.

The big tank and the road presence of the bike make it a great commuter, as for filtering its OK, its not often I get stuck.

Shep

 

[happy pilgrim]

i know when i leaned the two different models over in the showroom? there was no real noticeable difference between the two in weight? it hink they are about 20kg different, but if thats low slung, would not really matter. biggest issue will be fuel and whether a top box is used and filled