Is the 1200GS the “One Bike to Rule Them All?”

I own a 2008 GS and a 2012 GSA- the GSA rules- period. I work around my 30" inseam.

When I owned my 08 GSA I though it was the best all round bike too. Now I know better.

No

Enlighten us

Yes !

I sold an 08 GSA back in September after ordering this bike. I was led to the Stevlio by the Griso I purchased back in May.

The pros for me:

1. The motor sings in a way that the boxer just can't.
2. The bikes design is cleaner and more elegant. Of course YVMV.
3. It punches a cleaner hole in the wind. This translates into better highway performance. It's going to be more difficult to keep from speeding on this bike.
4. It has better torque at low rpms, it'll chug along in first gear at idle all day long.
5. It's got a lower center of gravity. That translates into a more flickable bike at speed and a more maneuverable bike at low speeds.
6. The stock seat is impressive, may not need the aftermarket replacement like every BMW I've owned.
7. It's not quite as tall as the GSA but the ergonomics are very similar. Plenty of room for me at 6'2" and a little easier to manage in difficult conditions.
8. It's CARC final drive has a sterling reputation for reliability.
9. It's oil cooler doesn't dump hot air right in your lap.
10. You won't be hitting your shins on the cylinders.
11. No canbus electrical system.
12. A working fuel gauge.
13. No ESA
14. It's much better looking
15. It's easier to service.
16. It's a better buy. You will save some significant coin right now compared to the GSA.

The cons.
1. You will feel a bit more vibration from this motor.
2. Sparse dealer network. Not a deal breaker for me, I'm 300 miles from the nearest Guzzi or BMW dealer.
3. The farkle network isn't nearly as well developed. Again no biggie, there is still plenty of crap to buy to "personalize" the bike if one wants to.
4. BMW's tail is a bit longer so the top box doesn't look like its cantilevered out into space.
5. No ESA

Yes

Once AGAIN, the HP2E is NOT a GS

Yes. First cousin to a GS, but not the same.

brother of the MM but different
front & rear dampers,
wheels,
handlebar,
engine ,
lighting ,
etc

once again you can't fix stupid. Look it up

nope ... too big to do the mountain passes... not a true adventure bike if you can't run the passes.

It is just a fire road beast...

It' perfection I the purest from...
.....
...
Pass the kool aide please.....

Regards, Paul

:huh Is English your first language? :huh

I had an '09 GS for a couple of years and loved it. In a moment of temporary insanity I traded it off for a Heritage Softail which I foolishly dropped on my ankle. Now I'm sitting here with my leg in a cast until November scheming on how I can unload the Harley and find another 1200 GS. I've owned over 2 dozen bikes in 45 years of riding and the GS was the best all-rounder I've ever owned. Reliable as a brick, after I dialed it in it was all-day comfy. I really don't know what possessed me to get rid of it in the first place. I'll definately get another one as soon as I am able.

Sometimes.

But I think you understand the message, no?

Regards, Paul