That is very helpful, thanks for sharing. It seems bmw have more options than I am used to. I am going back to Bahnstomer this week to check out the gs and rs models, all the height options and modes as I am unfamiliar with the. I think the gs is going to be a bit big, although saying that I saw a 1250 gs outside Motolegends’s last week and the seat height looked comparable or lower than my multi. Unfortunately I could not speak to the owner to ask if it was a lowered chassis and what seat was fitted. I am hoping the rs is comfortable - it has the same engine (?) as the gs without the bulk. I suspect the gs will be more comfortable (similar ergo’s to multi) but physically bigger and heavier. I hope to find out this week. I think I have some way to go with the 1300 gs ( to my eye the 1250 looks better) but the 1300 rs looks more appealing. Unfortunately post op I can no longer let my heart rule my head and being comfortable does make the difference between riding and not riding. I would like to own and ride a bmw boxer if I can to see for myself why they have the reputation they have.
New to bmw - model and buying advice please
- Thread starter firecat
- Start date
2016 models have isssues with the painting of the rear subframes, they fade & suffer corrosion
If your on bugdet, go for a 11-12 twin cam best of the sorted bikes
If your on bugdet, go for a 11-12 twin cam best of the sorted bikes
The GS and RS share the same engine and gearbox, though I think the gear ratios are slightly different as the RS seems more urgent with more instant punch for overtakes etc. in the mid gears Vs a similar GS. The weight difference between them isn't that much, less than 10kg IIRC (mainly due to more fairing, the Telelever front end and larger wheels), and the GS is physically bigger as you say. At 5'7" short and 11st 4 and an old git personally I find the RS easier to handle and move around at low speeds and when I stop in traffic etc and it does feel more compact than a GS, so more confidence inspiring. My 2023 RS SE has the tubular bars option rather than the standard bars plus up and back bar risers and you can get aftermarket tubular bars conversion kits if you wanted an RS but not with the standard bars. The GS is more comfortable with it's longer travel suspension and Telelever front end which can take a bit of getting used to with little or no fork dive, where as the upside down telescopic forks on the RS give a more involved, if not quite so comfortable ride IMO. The GS is a very capable and comfortable bike especially 2 up, the do it all Swiss army knife of bikes and for 2 up touring on the continent if it's your only bike it takes some beating. The RS like for like is cheaper than a GS by a few grand new and cheaper used too, when I got my 2023 1250 RS SE in the sexy motoradd colours with the touring pack ( heated grips, TPMS and keyless which the RS SE doesn't have) it was around 16k, a new 1250 GS TE would have been closer to 20k, which should mean you'll get a newer/lower milage RS for your money. Barhnstormers have a 1250RS in with the standard bars which ergonomically is the same as the 1200. @wessie had a 1200RS and put a footpeg lowering kit on his. Screens on both are not brilliant (though for me the lowered GS/OE screen worked well) many change theirs on both for a MRA vario screen and I have the Puig touring max one on mine, though the 1 at Barhnstormers doesn't look like the standard screen. The GS suits more riders out of the box, while the RS may need a bit more fettling to get it how you want it, if it floats your boat. For solo riding I prefer the more engaging ride of the RS, after having had 3 GS' in the past Good luck!
Bar risers, lowered footrests, and lower/higher seats are a frequent accessory for many riders, me included on my last two bikes.
If you’re likely to take a pillion, check they’re comfortable too. We tried 11 different makes/models before we settled on the RT, and it was essentially my wife’s comfort on the back that decided me.
Have a play on the site link below, it may help with your queries with the ergonomics on various makes and models.
If you’re likely to take a pillion, check they’re comfortable too. We tried 11 different makes/models before we settled on the RT, and it was essentially my wife’s comfort on the back that decided me.
Have a play on the site link below, it may help with your queries with the ergonomics on various makes and models.
Last edited:
It’s 9 years old with only 6000 miles on the clock. That alone rings alarm bells to me. Sure it’s been stood for 3 years but that’s still only 1000 miles per year of use. Why? What’s been wrong with it?
My last bike did just over 6000 miles per year.
My last bike did just over 6000 miles per year.
I can help on the R1200
each iteration
Single cam
Twin cam
LC
has increased its seat height (god knows why)
Lowering on the single and twin cam does lower the bike 30mm
on the LC it makes no difference to the base height, as the bike is 60mm wider in the seat area, so you need an ultralow seat to achieve a 30mm lower seat position
each iteration
Single cam
Twin cam
LC
has increased its seat height (god knows why)
Lowering on the single and twin cam does lower the bike 30mm
on the LC it makes no difference to the base height, as the bike is 60mm wider in the seat area, so you need an ultralow seat to achieve a 30mm lower seat position
Toy, starblocks special, fairweather rider, Garage queen all will ensure low mileage
Surely they’re designed and built to be used/ridden? I would be very wary of one that hasn't been ridden. Probably spent a long time in the workshop being fixed, waiting for parts etc.
It sold for £7k. I too had concerns, as you say standing for so long was one of them.
I’m an extremely biased R1200RS rider.Thanks for all the comments! Really helpful and quite a variety!
Budget up to 7.5k possibly more depending on the bike.
I have little legs!hence the interest in a low version. I also have a stent in my groin so I am looking for upright (ish) position. Last three bikes have been multistrada’s current 1260.
I want something different for a change and have never owned a bmw boxer.
I have no preference 1200/1250 I am not too keen on the looks of the 1150 - great bikes I understand just not what I am looking for. I rode a new one once but that was an age ago.
I am certainly not adverse to an RS it depends on the seating position, too acute an angle will cause me problems as will finding high position pegs.
The chap advertising seems very open and upfront.
I am in no hurry, I will look on the forum for sale as suggested.
How different is the seating between the 1200/1250 gs models? Or for that matter between the r/s models? I think a trip to vines/bahnstormer might be useful.
I did enjoy a GS for several years, but decided they’re best for tall riders for obvious reasons.
And only 45mpg if I remember.
A very nice bike. But common.
I moved to a pretty R1200R for a while. Thought it was a keeper - needing a few odds and ends.
Then the 2015 RS arrived.
5’8” in my boots.
Adjusted to suit me like a glove.
Seat. Pegs. Gear lever.
Cruise. Hot bars.
I’m seeing 65mpg on the dash today.
Bike is purring along perfectly.
As fast as we mere mortals need (ask my GPS what fast enough means - 2nd ever highest number today)
ps - rolled 59K miles over today and I’ve got my feet up in Spain
Or illness, got that t shirt, but back up and running again now
I am at Bahnstomer tomorrow to check out the gs/rs, to try the ergonomics, learn about the seat height options and the features/specs. I am pleased to be riding again but it has been a long struggle to be able to walk again never mind getting on a motorbike. For me If it’s not comfortable I will get shoulder and hip pain that will stop me riding after a very short ride. If I think one or other has possibilities I will test ride. I am thinking of a lowered chassis on a gs and the ergo software recommended on here suggests the gs is the more upright of the two and I need that. Lowered seats are fine but in the past going that route has made the peg/seat feel cramped - there are so many permutations it needs a bum on seat approach then if I am comfortable on one or other (or both) it will come down to the riding experience. I should have a better idea this time tomorrow. Thanks to all that have commented.
I agree the key point is how you (I) fit the seat, pegs, bar combination. And feet on the floor.
And how the combination works when you’re on the move.
The bike badge comes second.
I’ve just reached 2,000 miles in 10 days.
Lounging on a Spanish hotel bed now.
Bike fits like a glove.
Other creaks and groans are other stories.
I’ve survived a thousand hairpins. A million gear shifts (feels like it). Hit 3 figure speeds a few times. Hit the brakes a few more times.
I’m not feeling any aches and pains at all.
Just as tired as a septuagenarian should be after a few beers at bed time.
Butt to pegs is sorted - highest of 3 seats. Cool Cover. Lowered pegs. Fancy accessory gear shift pedal.
Feet can touch the floor - custom shock was extended 10mm.
No weight at all on wrists - standard bars but cut down screen.
But we’re all different shapes and sizes so don’t copy anyone
It may be that the previous has multiple bikes.
I’d go on condition and history.
Some of my bikes take time off, fuse stabiliser, still looked after etc etc.
It’s not necessarily a bad thing
Went to bahnstormers yesterday and tried sitting on a r1250gs and r1250rs, it proved to be very interesting and not at all what I was expecting. I tried the standard gs with the seat in the low position and was, much to my surprise able to get both feet nearly flat on the ground. Unfortunately the battery was flat so I could not try it with the esa on low. I was told it was set in auto - does the esa default to the last mode selected when the engine is not running? Minor things, the bars felt wider than usual, the mirrors small and the seat is not narrow at the front but quite comfortable. It feels less top heavy than my 1260 so although it’s a big bike it felt quite manageable. The rs was a low chassis version fitted with a low seat. Very easy to get on and could flat foot it with bent knees. The bars were quite a reach despite having bmw risers fitted. Pegs felt pretty reasonable but swapped the seat for a standard and it was better on the hips and did not feel too cramped. Both are possible next bikes but not without a reasonable test ride and that was not available so a bit stumped really. I would prefer to ride both and see which one is more comfortable. I prefer the size of the rs but am concerned about the effect of the bar position on my shoulders. The gs on the other hand was more comfortable (upright) but felt like a big bike to handle. Without a test ride to compare I am at a bit of an impasse. I am glad I went but lots to think about.
Larry Langford
Registered user
I have both of those bikes at the present time, a 22" RS, and a 19" GS with sport suspension. What everyone said is pretty spot on. Between my bikes there is a substantial weight difference, with the GS being fully kitted out. All those crash bars weigh a lot. With both bikes under covers next to each other the GS towers over the RS. You would not likely think they both have the exact same engine. I'm not that tall 5'10" but short inseam 30 inch. The GS is way too tall for me even with the low seat in the low position. With the RS I can stand over the bike, my weight off the seat, which gives me much more leverage when horsing the bike around. With the GS I'm on the balls of my feet and I don't feel like I have any leverage at all when seated on it. I have dropped it, with that weight, they get away from you fast. Funny thing, I'm actually pretty strong, there is just no leverage with the taller bike and a medium sized body. I think many folks have found this out ......
I bought the RS first, mainly due to the lightness, and the upside down fork. I don't really like the telelever fork. I don't like the feel going in to corners, mainly as the steering geo doesn't change like a bike with forks, not as solid in the turns for sure.
So I much prefer the RS. but I might trade off the GS for a lowered one and give that a try. The thing is, my GS has all the ride modes and it took a while to find one with that. It has dynamic pro, and enduro. It's always good to check that before you buy, many bikes don't have the fancy electronics on them. Some bikes do have adjustable foot pegs installed, They do come with the 719 kit. I have the stock bars with the minor up and back risers. But you can move the bars further if you get extensions for the clutch and brake lines, if you need. If I scoot all the way forward to the tank on the RS, I am almost straight up. Slide back in the seat, slightly forward, which I like as it is the same position as my MT bike set ups ... hope that helps ...
If you like the RS but not the reach to the bars with the standard clip ons try and find one with the tubular bars to test ride. I test rode a standard RS, but found it too wristy for me at 5'7" short, but the dealer had a 1250RS with the tubular bars waiting to go out to a customer which I had a sit on. The difference was quite noticeable and I ordered one as a result rather than another GS. The bars it uses are off the R1250 sport, but you can get a bar conversion kits that fits both the 1200 and 1250. If you look on BMW Motorrads website there's a few for sale. Here's one at my dealer in Cheltenham
BMW-Details Used bikes https://share.google/fx0VNtdpIbJAbQYiD
Another at north oxford
BMW-Details Used bikes https://share.google/Hd6dMRFUCeH0zNnps
Here's one with standard bars, if you look at both you should be able to see the difference in bar position
BMW-Details Used bikes https://share.google/cuXmYnk3ELWGy9BSB
You can get a 760mm, 790mm and the standard 820mm seats, plus a high one too
BMW-Details Used bikes https://share.google/fx0VNtdpIbJAbQYiD
Another at north oxford
BMW-Details Used bikes https://share.google/Hd6dMRFUCeH0zNnps
Here's one with standard bars, if you look at both you should be able to see the difference in bar position
BMW-Details Used bikes https://share.google/cuXmYnk3ELWGy9BSB
You can get a 760mm, 790mm and the standard 820mm seats, plus a high one too
Thank you for taking the time to post this, it is very helpful! I was completely unaware of the conventional bar option, the dealer made no mention of this being available - only short risers. Is/was the bar option a standard bwm fitment? Thank you for the links, I have enquired about two of them. The rs I sat on yesterday was a low chassis with low and standard seat. The standard seat made for more comfort but the bike did feel surprisingly low to the ground - I could stand over it with ease. I need to find an rs locally with conventional bars and see how that feels And hopefully test ride to see if I get pin. Thnks once gain!
Thanks for sharing, the rs certainly felt more manageable than the gs it was the handlebar ergonomics that threw me. I have a 29” inseam so I am at a bit of a loss to understand how I could sit on the standard seat in the low position (standard chassis) and get my feet at least partially flat. Shame the battery was flat and the esa could not be put in the low setting. I am wondering if the bike was a standard chassis now! I was not aware of adjustable foot pegs either - what is a 719 kit? Your poat is very helpful indeed, thanks you.
Yes it was , I have the factory build option tubular bars on my 2023 RS though not sure which year they were introduced on the 1250. As I've said earlier if you're on a fixed budget you'll get a newer RS with less miles when compared to a GS and possibly a 1250 rather than a 1200 too. The dealer probably didn't tell you about it as they have no used approved ones to sell 
I wasn't aware they did a factory lowered RS, my understanding was that unlike the GS which has lowered suspension with a low seat, the only options available on the RS were the different seats themselves, the 760mm, 820mm and 850mm were available when I ordered mine. I got the 760mm seat but found my legs were too cramped but found a 790mm seat on ebay which I've kept.
The RS definitely feels lower than the GS, a combination of smaller wheels and shorter travel suspension, plus the tubular bars are not so high and wide as the GS and you're leant slightly forward too which helps. I had 3 lowered GS' 2 1200s and a 1250 with IIRC a 800mm seat and I had Daytona M Star boots with the extra 25mm heels & 8mm soles in them but my RS has the 790mm seat and I have the Daytona Road Star boots instead with just the normal heel and soles and it's easier to manage.
If you can't find one with the factory fitted tubular bars within your budget you could still do what others have already done before the tubular bar was a factory option and get a Wunderlict conversion kit instead in either silver or black.
Wunderlich riser handlebar conversion R1200RS LC, R1250RS - silver https://share.google/E6tksAflCEcXvRadU
I wasn't aware they did a factory lowered RS, my understanding was that unlike the GS which has lowered suspension with a low seat, the only options available on the RS were the different seats themselves, the 760mm, 820mm and 850mm were available when I ordered mine. I got the 760mm seat but found my legs were too cramped but found a 790mm seat on ebay which I've kept.
The RS definitely feels lower than the GS, a combination of smaller wheels and shorter travel suspension, plus the tubular bars are not so high and wide as the GS and you're leant slightly forward too which helps. I had 3 lowered GS' 2 1200s and a 1250 with IIRC a 800mm seat and I had Daytona M Star boots with the extra 25mm heels & 8mm soles in them but my RS has the 790mm seat and I have the Daytona Road Star boots instead with just the normal heel and soles and it's easier to manage.
If you can't find one with the factory fitted tubular bars within your budget you could still do what others have already done before the tubular bar was a factory option and get a Wunderlict conversion kit instead in either silver or black.
Wunderlich riser handlebar conversion R1200RS LC, R1250RS - silver https://share.google/E6tksAflCEcXvRadU
Similar threads
