GS 1200

[Grey Capo]

http://www.cmgonline.com/bikes/models/BMW/R1200GS/2004/test/

Seems fairly well balanced.........

[Suzuki Al]

Every review of the GS that I've read has been glowing. Compared to its direct rivals: V Strom, Varadero, Tiger etc, the GS is obviously far superior in terms of performance, handling and general dynamics.

[buckets]

I have a blue 05 R1200GS It is my first BMW. Generally speaking so far so good ,I did have it stall on me while on the center stand on more than one occasion . I did not have it in for its 600 mile check yet .but I will mention it to them . They say the bike dosent need to be warmed up just start it and go dont idle to long . My bike was not ideling long at all ,I started it just to put my helmet on and it stalled And did this 3 more times finally I put my helmet on got it off the center stand and got on it and it started . It ran fine , and continues to run fine with the occasional stalling upon start up . I will be letting my dealer know ,Im thinking it may be a computer issue or the like . Bike is great other than that . handels wonderfully ,I think I will be replaceing the windshield and seat down the road .

[Dr Rich]

Im glad your enjoying it. When on the centre stand do you have the sidestand down as well. This used to cause a cut out. Mine did that, but after first service stopped as I assume they updated the software.
But anyway yes, start and ride off gently right away when cold was the advice I was given.
On the windsheild an option that seems to be getting very poular is buy a replacememnt for long trips (either a seconmd stock one about £43 or a taller one) and chop the original down for the 'fun' trips. Its great riding like that, you feel right over the front of the bike and have clean air blast.

[buckets]

Thanks for the advice Dr Rich , I might get a givi for cold weather and long trips ,I read a review where a fella really liked his .aia will cut down my stock windshield 4 inches is suppose to help wind buffering alot . Enjoy the ride .

[Mouse]

The 1200 has a "safety feature" such that, if the rear wheel is turning with the sidestand down, it cuts the engine. So if you have the bike on the centre stand, but the sidestand is also down, the drag of the cold gearbox oil will cause the wheel to turn slowly, and the engine cuts out.

[buckets]

Thanks mouse , I will be keeping an eye on my starting procedures