I really want one but I'm 5'7

[Yonkyo]

And the same here. I’m 5’8” with 29” inside leg. But once I’ve climbed on board my GSA (with high seat), I don’t have any problems when I stop at lights etc. I just slide an arse cheek off the saddle and hold the bike with one foot flat on the ground.

Its just a confidence thing….go on, get one.

 

[crampie]

A couple of further questions for the audience:

1. Is there much difference between the new engine and the old engine?
To be brief, YES! but I suspect you'd need to ride them again to notice now you've got over the initial experience. It doesn't suddenly make the previous model a bad bike, far from it, there are thousands of satisfied owners out there!

My preference is to get something a couple of years old but should I be concerned with not having a warranty etc. Or should I just stump up for a new one?

If you want to go used, strike a deal with a BMW Dealer - not only do they really want your business but they'll look after you during your ownership experience. BMW Approved Used bikes will come with up to date servicing, all recalls up to date, HPI clear, a 12 month BMW warranty & 12 months european roadside assistance and much more. Not bad for a used bike, you'll probably struggle to get that sort of cover anywhere else.

If you go new, you'll get the 2 year warranty, 2 years roadside assist and up until the end of September you'll get free panniers with a GS or GS Adventure. Don't forget the price increase 1st September though.

2. Any good site recommendations for sourcing a used GS (of course this one)
Try http://www.bmwapprovedusedbikes.co.uk/bmwuk/aub/homepage/

and selling my Vespa?

Don't rule out a part exchange -some dealers sell non BMW's as well!

Thanks for your kind advice.

Cookie

Good luck!

 

[NLC]

Just to finish this thread for future people - bought the regular model and opted for the low seat option vs the low suspension. After talking with many the low suspension option limits the resale because you can't order ESA (and I guess there are many more big people than small people). Picked it up today and had the time of my life. Good luck to those considering. Cookie

 

[BaldBaBoon]

5 foot 7 inches, with a 29 inch inside leg.

BMWR 1150 GSA standard except for resculpted seat ( £70 )

Did 65,000 miles on it in one year.....yes I did drop it a few times, but as my first bike extra was fitting some Hepco and Becker crash bars..no damage.

Depending on your physical build, you should not have a problem picking up a sensibly laden GS with the right technique.

Buy one.

 

[captain ken]

short legs

Hello all - Well turning 40 and would like to do something special next year. I currently live in London and drive my Vespa GTS250 (no laughs please) and look with envey the guys who commute on the GS everyday. My only concern I'm 5'7 and it would be stretch to get on a GS without feeling uncomfortable. Some have mentioned a lowering kit are these worthwhile and expensive? Easy to install? How easy to drive is it in urban traffic (London). Is the 800 or 1200 the one to go for? Some advice would be great! I would like to do some country drives and some touring. Further is it better to go for a used one or plunk the money down and get a new one? Many thanks, Cookie

hi cookie, i,m also 5,7 with a 29ins inside leg. a r1200gs with a low seat is no problem i have done 8000 miles since march ken

 

[Greger]

Just to finish this thread for future people - bought the regular model and opted for the low seat option vs the low suspension. After talking with many the low suspension option limits the resale because you can't order ESA (and I guess there are many more big people than small people). Picked it up today and had the time of my life. Good luck to those considering. Cookie

did you have the ESA option on yours?

 

[NLC]

Yes got the ESA with Dynamic and Premium Package. Was a bit skeptical but does make a difference.

 

[littleredrooster]

My only concern I'm 5'7 and it would be stretch to get on a GS

Lucky you! 5'7" - wish I was that tall.

I'm shorter than you and have had an assortment of (unmodified, unlowered) GSs for the past ten years. No problem - mind over matter usually.

 

[Aurelius]

My only concern I'm 5'7 and it would be stretch to get on a GS without feeling uncomfortable.

You just need the propper riding boots.

 

[Wicker]

Proper riding boots. An R1200GS Adventure, Doug and his high heeled / 1 inch thick soled sports riding boots in Morocco. A bit but made me every time I saw him wearing them. Just too ridiculous for words.

 

[Alex B]

Formula Fix for a GSA1200 with ESA etc:

Providing your inside leg is not less than 29 inches........

1. Get a low seat, but a well made one (eg Sargent).
2. Use boots with a decent sole depth (Hein Gericke TRX or similar).
4. Always mount from the prop stand (and do not fit a "fat foot" or anything like that to the prop stand as it increases the height angle.
5. With rear panniers on, practice sliding boot "through" the seat... with panniers off just get the knee angle right to extend the leg over the rear seat.
6. If you ever feel you're putting foot down into empty space, adopt the "motocross" stance and slide your bottom to allow a full leg down on the support side (your strongest foot/leg).
7. Practice and practice .......... always practice.

Do not waste money lowering suspensions etc. I think you lose more than you gain.