Took a 1200GS Adventure for a spin today

[franco]

Started off just before 9am, sun was up, couple of cups of coffee then head down past the village.

Off to JPV motorcycles in Frejus, where they handed over the keys to the demo bike with 256kms on the clock

Quick blat round the backroads of Frejus, not much traffic

Up the RN7 to the turnoff at the top to Mt Vinaigre, was going to go all the way up but they closed the fire trail for some reason. Nice views down to the coast all the same

Looking west out towards Frejus and Roquebrune-sur-Argens

Down one of the local dirt tracks, gave me a chance to play with the ESA which was brilliant.

On the way back home, did a little exploring on the 1150, still great fun

121,000kms and still rides as good as new. Who said BMW's weren't built to last?

On the lovely wee road from Bagnols-en-Foret back towards the hoose...

Looking towards Callian village (home) with the snowy mountains behind. Might not have seen the space station this week, but a great place to live nonetheless

 

[franco]

So?

Verdict on the 1200ADV

When I first started off it felt a bit weird as it felt more like sitting "on" it rather than "in" it as on the 1150.

The engine is noticably livelier than the 1150 but mine hasn't been serviced for over 8000kms, so is due an oil change, carb balance etc. 1200 feels much stronger through the rev range, especially at the top end.
Brakes were noticably improved. My 1150 has the servo ABS which I've never had an issue with, but the 1200 had much more feel and the stopping power was amazing.
Handling wasn't that different though the 1150 does feel slightly more planted I wouldn't have an issue with the 1200 having given it a good hooning up the sublime RN7 between Frejus and Mandelieu.

Would I buy it? You better believe it

Would I sell the 1150....hmm, that's more difficult to answer, have to think about that one.

Off to give the 1150 another run now....

Rob

 

[corsicandreamer]

Hi Franco, i am still stuck in the UK without a bike and reading this got my juices flowing, we really do live in a bikers paradise, can't wait to return, good luck Ken.B

 

[thornley]

Hi Franco, i am still stuck in the UK without a bike and reading this got my juices flowing, we really do live in a bikers paradise, can't wait to return, good luck Ken.B

Im back on Friday!!! Can't wait had enough winter grey

 

[2 wheel humvee]

Hi Rob,
Glad you enjoyed your ride, you had the roads and the weather for it-not to mention the scenery, jealous-moi?



How long before the "iconic" word is mentioned in respect of your 1150?

 

[franco]

Hi Franco, i am still stuck in the UK without a bike and reading this got my juices flowing, we really do live in a bikers paradise, can't wait to return, good luck Ken.B

Gimme a shout when yer back and we'll have a scoot out for lunch somewhere nice

 

[franco]

Hi Rob,
Glad you enjoyed your ride, you had the roads and the weather for it-not to mention the scenery, jealous-moi?

You wouldn't like it here. You can never see the International Space Station cos it's too cloudy

 

[paintman]

What a splendid way to start the weekend.