2021 BMW R 1250 GS Review | Motorcyclist

These days there’s no shortage of purpose-built motorcycles. However, for the motorcyclist seeking a do-it-all street bike, BMW Motorrad sure makes a solid case with its versatile 2021 R 1250 GS ($26,281.98 as tested).

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BMW has been crafting its GS adventure motorcycles for more than 40 years and it shows in the exquisite polish and attention to detail. Swing a leg over the 549-pound GS and it feels like a big dirt bike, only with a much more comfortable seat for rider and passenger. The cockpit is slim and the handlebar has a pleasing upright bend that’s a good balance between on- and off-road use. Our only gripe ergonomically is the footpegs are a tad small. However, we appreciate the easily removed rubber inserts for better grip against the sole of the boot during wet or off-road riding escapades.

Press the starter button and the horizontally opposed 1,254cc boxer twin purrs to life. Again, BMW Motorrad has a long engineering history with this engine configuration (well over 90 years) and it has demonstrated how effective it is, in terms of performance and sporting character.

Rev it high or lug it low, and the engine delivers a smooth stream of power, to the tune of 91.5 pound-feet torque at 6,510 rpm and over 117 hp at 7,770 rpm. All while providing a pleasing engine and exhaust note. BMW’s boxer twin is easily among the top 10 of the best-sounding modern motorcycle powertrains.

The Gear Shift Assist Pro option (Motorrad-speak for an bidirectional electronic quick shifter—included in the $3,925 Dynamic/Premium package) makes for immediate clutchless up- and downshifts through the six-speed gearbox. Power is transmitted to the 17-inch gold cross-spoke wheel (included in the $1,750 40 Years GS Edition package) via a clean-looking single-side shaft final drive. The setup is virtually maintenance-free, aside from recommended differential oil changes every 12,000 miles. On a related note, a centerstand eases maintenance chores.

Throttle response is well metered and, like BMW’s other models, offers adjustable combined engine and throttle response maps (Enduro, Road, Rain, Dynamic, and Dynamic Pro, the latter setting available as part of the Ride Modes Pro option inside the Dynamic/Premium package). Each mode works well, however, unlike other manufacturers’ setups, it doesn’t offer a noticeable jump between settings. The engine drinks from a generously sized 5.2-gallon fuel tank which offers a range of nearly 200 miles between fill-ups. Unlike a traditional motorcycle, the fuel tank cap and ignition are keyless, requiring a proximity key fob for vehicle start and to open the fuel cap.

Keeping tabs on it all is a bright and crisp 6.5-inch color display. The screen benefits from sharp fonts in line with the rest of BMW’s two- and four-wheel vehicle line. Display settings are managed through BMW’s tried-and-true multi-wheel controller, originally debuting on the then all-new 2011 K 1600 GTL.

The vehicle is also Bluetooth ready, allowing riders to pair the motorcycle to their smartphones using the BMW Motorrad Connected iOS and Android app. This facilitates smartphone-powered turn-by-turn directions on the display. You can also track route and ride history, vehicle settings, including fuel level, tire air pressure, and service information. The app is super slick to use and, best of all, it’s free. The R 1250 GS is also compatible with Bluetooth-enabled headsets for both rider and passenger.

We’re always impressed with how nimble the R 1250 GS is for a motorcycle of its size. Despite employing an unconventional Telelever front suspension design, in motion it feels similar to a traditional fork-equipped motorcycle, only better.

This allows the BMW to float over rough surfaces offering nearly 8 inches of suspension travel. Yet, when it’s time to eat up a series of turns the front end offers a pleasing level of feel, with good support under deep braking, even with a larger-diameter 19-inch gold cross-spoke wheel. Our Black Storm Metallic GS was outfitted with BMW’s dynamic electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) which automatically adjusts damping settings based on selected riding mode.

Photography/video/edit: Joseph Agustin

Motorcycle Riding Gear Worn

Boots: TCX Jupiter 4 Gore-Tex

[joeblow]

Good stuff, Adam.
I like the color combo, and it sounds really strong.
alas, my '18 KLR-650 is the only steed I could afford.
But if I do win the lotto, I still think I'd go after the Africa Twin. The one with a manual tranny and tubed tires.
Go anywhere, and a little less handful in the sticks.
Merry Christmas, Buddy! 🌲

[OGCaptCrunch]

1.5x speed. Adam sounds a bit slow today

[RuledByMars]

Riding a 2021 750GS for 6 months and have 7500 commuter miles on her. It's an amazing bike. It replaced my 2017 700GS. I love my new bike

[Dranreb]

I always read the comment section about waheed's presentation skills. Its been 4 years or so since he took the spot here in this channel. Im surprised some people are still new to his style.

For some reason his quirks and style is somehow fun for me after watching some serious heavy stuff.

[daniilrusanau]

Already saw some comments on the background music. Personally, feel like it only distracts from the video itself. Adam has a great way of making reviews interesting on their own, no special effects needed. This is just my personal opinion. Great video overall! Have a great Xmas!

[jtwardley]

Great review I have a late 2018 R1250GS and I love it this bike handles so well one of the best motorcycles in the world period

[jonathann]

Adam, this is probably the best video in terms of image quality, footage, sound, and music you've made. You do a great job narrating clearly as well... something a lot of people abroad probably appreciate. Merry Xmas and ride safe!

[cliffh]

Talks way too slow. I watched at 1.5 speed and it was perfect.

[ajojoseph]

This is one motorcycle that needs no reviews or intros. But love this overview. You just have to ride to believe it. Like Adam says, it’s checks all the boxes. Several competitors have tried and failed to displace the sales king. They have been at this for 40 years. Let’s see how the Tiger 1200 will turn out. Something tells me that when the Tiger starts to take some sales share away, the 1300GS will be out late 2022-23.

[bojed]

I can't decide between this beauty and the K1600 GT. I'm not an avid off-roader but the GS is surprisingly comfy on the road as well, way better than any scrambler can offer.

[Exodos]

Nice review, one quote though. I disagree with the touch screen option you mention because you would have to take off your hands during riding so the wheel for that purpose is more convenient and also more responsive. Things should combine functionality and safety and it is not safe to press a touch screen during riding.

[motohunt]

I love how y'all in the comments hate on the way of the guy expressing himself!
Has anyone ever heard about placing some weight on my words. He simply talks like that because he means what he is trying to say! The BMW GS fever caught him I personally cannot judge him. It's the best all around two wheel motor vehicle on our planet earth deal with it! As ugly and heavy and expensive it is also guess what the best selling adventure bike that's what it also is! Grow up people we're not in the kindergarten if you don't like it go watch something else and buy a different bike stop bragging because you can't afford one of these!

Great review dude! Absolutely beautiful, magical machine lovely to look at mezmerizing to listen to its RPMS as it takes off. Really agile ready for anything highly manoeuvrable bike a cornering king! Btw don't change the way you are for nobody especially not random peeps on the internet! 👍

[jacklange]

I always enjoy your perspective, Adam

[roadglide]

Superb analysis Adam. Alway love the laid back approach. As unique as the motorcycles you get to ride. Ride safe and ride often. Peace.

[Porschedriver]

Great bike, truly time-tested. The Boxer motor gives it incredible low-speed handling, front Telelever is natural anti-dive, incredible. Love how Adam pronounces dude!

[steveparish]

Merry Christmas Adam and all the good people at Motorcyclist! Thanks for all the interesting test and commutes 🎄

[Bruno-myuf]

Best bike ever . ! I of riding 40 years all kinds . I finnaly found the unicorn . !!! Gs 1200

[movem]

Love that TFT display. Great review 👍

[Evo]

Watch with 1.5x speed or more. Welcome.

[rickalexander]

Great review. I wonder how this would be for my first bike? D0 it once and not need to trade up.