BMW R1250GS ADVENTURE (2019 - on) Review

At a glance
Owners' reliability rating: | |
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Annual servicing cost: | £300 |
Power: | 134 bhp |
Seat height: | Tall (35.0 in / 890 mm) |
Weight: | High (591 lbs / 268 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThe 2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure is an outstanding bike, it truly can do it all. Tour, off-road, commute, or simply be weekend toy, it’s faultless.
- Latest news: BMW developing R1300GS model for 2022
The old R1200GS was a fraction underpowered, noticeably so when fully-loaded with pillion luggage and 30litres of fuel – but that can’t be said of the new bike. With more power and torque BMW have given GS Adventure more spice, it’s more fun than ever before, yet still easy-to-ride with perfect fuelling. It’s almost impossible to find fault with it.
- Related: Standard 2019 BMW R1250GS review on MCN
- Related: BMW R1250GS Adventure Rallye TE on the MCN long-term test fleet
It’s still a physically large bike, but that aside, it’s pretty much the perfect do-everything, go-anywhere motorcycle. But be warned: if you currently own GS Adventure and you take the new model for a test ride, you’ll immediately feel the difference, and your old 1200 will never feel quite the same. And if you’ve always fancied a big GS Adventure, it will be hard to walk away after a test ride without signing on the dotted line.

Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe chassis, suspension and excellent rider aids are unchanged. Our Rallye TE test bike came with electronically controlled Dynamic ESA suspension front and back with 210/220mm of travel, the same as previous model. The standard model has the same conventional suspension as the old bike.
The tall 890/910mm seat remains, as does the huge 30l fuel tank, combined with a more fuel-efficient engine should give an even greater range, BMW are quoting a theoretical 389-mile tank range. With unprecedented comfort as like the old bike that’s more than achievable in one stint.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityThe big GS Adventure receives the new 1254cc Boxer engine housed in the 2019 BMW R1250GS. The ingenious system allows the charismatic boxer engine to electronically switch between high and low-lift cams. The cam shifting doesn’t just respond to revs or wheel speed like some systems, instead it monitors throttle position and how quickly it’s being opened, and reacts accordingly to deliver maximum drive when you ask for it.
The German factory have also increased the new engine’s capacity from the 1200’s 1170cc to 1254cc, which, in partnership with the Shift Cam technology boosts peak torque by 14% and power by 9%, now a credible 134bhp. As much as I tried, I couldn’t feel the ShiftCam working, you honestly wouldn’t know it was there, there’s no jolting or change in engine note. It simply feels like a smoother Boxer engine with an instantly noticeable increase in torque and power.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueLike any machine the big GS has had its fair share of recalls and issues, but credit to BMW and its dealer network, problems are addressed with typical Germanic efficiency.

Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentThe base price for the new R1250GS Adventure is £14,415, which is a significant hike over the now old standard R1200GS Adventure, at £13,400. Our test bike is the range-topping R1250GS Adventure Rallye TE, which costs £18,100 – compared to £17,120 of the previous Rallye TE. Our test bike was also fitted with Anti-Theft Alarm and Teleservices pushing the price to £18,320.
Equipment
The level of standard equipment has improved, with the eye-catching full-colour 6.5in TFT connected dash now coming as standard – it was previously £595 extra. The base bike also benefits from LED lights, ASC (Automatic Stability Control) two riding modes (Rain and Road), plus HSC (Hill Start Control).
The new connected dash is class-leading, and gives the Beemer a quality feel and will keep you amused for hours with a plethora of relevant and useful information, all linked via a bespoke app that tracks service information, and allows route planning for the turn-by-turn navigation through the dash. If you want the added bonus of cornering ABS, it is only available on the TE version.
Specs |
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Engine size | 1254cc |
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Engine type | Liquid-cooled, boxer twin, ShiftCam |
Frame type | Steel trellis |
Fuel capacity | 30 litres |
Seat height | 890mm |
Bike weight | 268kg |
Front suspension | None (optional Dynamic ESA) |
Rear suspension | Rebound and preload (optional Dynamic ESA) |
Front brake | 2x 305mm discs, 4-piston BMW/Hynes radial calipers, ABS |
Rear brake | 276mm disc, Brembo 2-piston caliper, ABS |
Front tyre size | 120/70 R19 |
Rear tyre size | 170/60 R17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
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Average fuel consumption | - |
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Annual road tax | £117 |
Annual service cost | £300 |
New price | £14,415 |
Used price | £11,500 - £14,400 |
Insurance group |
- How much to insure? |
Warranty term | Two years |
Top speed & performance |
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Max power | 134 bhp |
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Max torque | 106 ft-lb |
Top speed | - |
1/4 mile acceleration | - |
Tank range | 389 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
Other versions
BMW R1250GS
MCN Long term test reports

MCN Fleet: The BMW R1250GSA is a robot with personality
I really wanted to find a catastrophic flaw in the BMW R1250GSA’s skill set this year. It’s nothing personal, but having covered around 35,000 miles on GSs over the last five years, the cachet of being the one who finally manages to whinge (with supporting evidence) about the GS is an attractive lur…
Owners' reviews for the BMW R1250GS ADVENTURE (2019 - on)
22 owners have reviewed their BMW R1250GS ADVENTURE (2019 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your BMW R1250GS ADVENTURE (2019 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews |
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Overall rating: | |
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Ride quality & brakes: | |
Engine: | |
Reliability & build quality: | |
Value vs rivals: | |
Equipment: | |
Annual servicing cost: | £300 |
Version: Rallye HP
Year: 2019
Shiftcam technology, up rated active suspension, smoother engine
Long distance travel in relative comfort
Like the smoothness of the boxer with shift cam
Servicing by myself
Roadtec 6 tyres deliver a secure safe ride. Onboard cruise control for motorway cruising
Buying experience: Bought privately with BMW warranty, much cheaper than dealer
Version: Executive TE
Year: 2019
No worst concerns , best feature is its slow speed handling and the feeling of self confidence
Very positive, no issues
Pulls like a train and very torquey
No issues of yet but am still waiting for BMW to get back in touch if it needs any further recalls
Brand new to me to so no costing as of yet
Great speck
Version: Triple black
Year: 2022
Absolute dream long distance, the missis loves the heated seat, as the rider it always surprises me when i open it up for a heavy bike how quick it is. Downside the integration of the nav 6 to tft is a ball ache 😣
I recently did John o’groats to Scarborough 459 miles stopped twice to fuel up and stretch my legs!
Fingers crossed 🤞
12k service due, BMW needs to get their fingers out takes months to get it booked in for service.
Love the colour, head turner. Like the luggage capacity ideal touring bike.
Buying experience: 20k 2nd hand fully loaded with lots of extras on it. Chopped in my s1000xr Which was disappointing.
Version: TE
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £250
Very comfortable and so easy to ride, smooth engine and very controllable at slow speed. Gear change still clunky but precise in selection. The finish is good so far! Has had one recall. Servicing is pricey but it is BMW.
It does what it says it will do. Great on longer road trips and good on gravel and green lanes if heavy. I ride two up mostly and both ride for two hours or so before needing a break. Good solid bike at takes two of us and gear across the UK and Europe. Added extra comfort in a sheepskin rug on the seat
Very smooth in all gear's, easy to control at slow speeds and great at motorway speeds.
Three years in but low mileage so far no issues.
Loaded with all the kit, key less start and petrol cap, TFT works well and easy to change settings from the saddle. I do have the Garmin V and have no issues with it. Don't really use the gear change bit as I like to use the clutch lever!
Buying experience: No problems all options were explained fully by the dealer.
Version: Rallye TE
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £350
This bike looks intimidating at first. However, there is no need to worry as the weight is down low. As soon as you ride it, it feels very light and nimble. The only thing I don't like is the battery, which is under specce'd and sometimes cannot start the engine! The only other thing is the noise from the front wheel. Oh, you will need a screen saver for the TFT screen ss it will look horrible with dried water stains.
The brakes ate fantastic despite not being Brembo.
The engine is sublime.
I have had my bike for 3 years now and there is no issue with corrosion.
Fairly simple to service yourself but for £350 I just let Motoradd do the servicing.
I am not a fan of the aluminium panniers. The key locks are fiddly and the lock barrels have fallen out several times. It is a real pain to put them together again, although easy enough with patience.
Buying experience: I bought mine 2nd hand when it was one year old. I paid £13500 which included luggage but not a top box.
Version: Trophy te
Year: 2023
Robbed of 5 as had to have bolts removed under warranty to offload luggage scaffolding and replace with shad aftermarket
Better in low suspension
Better than 2019 model
3 years including in finance deal as foc
BMW as expected pay for what you want
Buying experience: Good
Version: TE 40th Anniversary Edition
Year: 2021
Great all rounder, does what it says on the time. Great suspension allows you to travel quicker than your expect especially on UK B-Roads.
Way better than you’d imagine, before you experience it.
Plenty of power for most road use, does struggle to keep up with more powerful s1000xr’s and Ducati Multistrada.
I have had no quality or reliability issues across 2 R1250GSA’s a 2019 and in turn a 2021 model, other then weeping front break calliper recall on my original 2019 model, which to be fair the dealer identified required precursionery replacement before I even knew this was a problem.
It’s a BMW so service work is never cheap, but it’s not what I’d call excessive, given what some car dealers charge these day.
Automatically adjusting suspension is really great, as it the TFT screen with tire pressure monitoring
Buying experience: Dealer purchase experience was very good, as you’d expect for a £20k bike.
Version: TE
Year: 2022
Great build quality, very good performance, I find it easy to ride at 6’3 but could see issues for shorter riders. Compared to other bikes I have owned there is a different attitude from other bikers.
Can ride 100 plus miles without being uncomfortable, bigger tank is good.
100% brilliant, good at low speed and high speed.
Excellent build quality, never let me down ever.
Light, agile and manoeuvrable when riding, but very heavy to manhandle when not.
Packed out with equipment even some you don’t use.
Buying experience: Dealer purchase, very good helpful salesman, extremely knowledgeable not only on BMW but all bikes and being a biker himself we could talk bikes.
Version: TE
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £250
Great all rounder - on great for two up tours
Smooth and great feedback from the bike
I love this engine so smooth and always willing to work well in all gears
No issues in two years
Service costs are high however they need to have all the special tooling
Tad expensive for extras, but quality
Buying experience: Very helpful staff at Ocean BMW Plymouth, no pressure to buy just lot's of information on the products and test ride's. The actual buying was made easy, filling in the paper work was seamless with everything explained full at every stage.
Version: Triple black
Year: 2022
Ideal bike if you’re tall. Awesome commuter bike. Great with a full fuel tank in windy conditions. Had one 10 years ago. Main difference now is it’s packed with toys.
I’ve put a top box on. Don’t be tempted to put too much weight in it as it does make a difference to handling.
Buying experience: Swansea BMW. Can’t fault them
Version: Triple Black
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £220
Does everything I want it to - don't need to say anymore
Typical boxter - brilliant torque and power delivery but rattles a bit so could be smoother that's the only reason for the 4 out of 5 (would be 4.9)
It's not just the bike - the ownership experience I'd great (makes the price worth while)
Just brilliant of the forecourt but also super customisable
Buying experience: Just excellent
Version: TE
Year: 2022
Annual servicing cost: £400
This is a heavy bike. Build quality is excellent.
Very difficult to book main dealer servicing and the time scale from booking to getting the service done is disappointing.
Headlight protector is important, as the headlight is expensive to replace.
Buying experience: Dealer was very good.
Version: TE
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £220
Excellent do-it-all bike for someone who can only fit one bike in the garage. Can’t tell when there’s a pillion on the back, the electronics are spot on and servicing has been reasonable (main dealer)
Road mode Suspension a bit wallowy when pushing it, flicking to dynamic fixes that. Brakes are first class (even the Hayes callipers). Never noticed ABS kicking in even when it’s tried to throw me over the bars if I’ve needed to grab a handful.
A bit vibey(meh it’s a big twin) but sounds good with standard can. Very tractable throughout the Rev range (I barely push it past 6000rpm, there’s no need!). Fuel economy in early - mid 50’s even after a good blast round the back lanes. 300miles on a full tank!
Except from an exhaust flap issue that was covered under warranty, nowt else to pay for. Tank paint on the side where your knees go is quite susceptible to wear from clothing. Side vinyls fix that.
That was for an “Engine oil and brake fluid” service at main dealer (to keep warranty active)
Has everything as standard (TE spec) and the only thing missing on my bike is the heated seats as they didn’t come in until 2020s model.
Buying experience: Purchased from main dealer. Got a small discount (couple of hundred quid) because it wasn’t the colour I wanted but got a good deal on my part exchange. Experience was as expected from a premium brand like BMW
Version: TE
Year: 2022
Accessories are more costly than they need to be.
Heavy but firmly footed, relates to a completely comfortable armchair.
Stunning boxer engine, weight all down low adding to the stability, strong power through the rev range.
Good build quality, as yet 100% reliable
Accessories are costly
Base model poorly equipped, adding packages is very costly.
Buying experience: Loved it, so easy to deal with Wollaston Bikes, BMW web site bloated. When riding often ignored by other bikers, not had this blanking with any other bike.
Version: TE
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £250
I used to have a 2015 GS the only issue I had with that was range. So, a few weeks ago I bought a 2021 GSA TE low seat and was really looking forward to getting the bike.However, whilst I know the bike is exceptional (I also have a 1250 RT) I found that whatever I and my supporting dealer did I could not get a screen that didn’t create tremendous noise in my crash helmet. It was deafening to the point of distraction. I have a Schubert’s 3C pro and ear plugs. I also tried Arai.I spent a lot of money and time trying different screens, high/low, different manufacturers with varying promises of improvement. The only thing that worked was riding without a screen or standing on the pegs. Hardly how it should be. At 5’ 8” I must be unique. After five weeks I got to the point I didn’t want to ride this bike, my 10th BMW.I found a solution. I got rid of it. I haven’t missed it since. Unfortunately, it cost me although my supporting dealer was able to get me into another bike.Yes, there’s lots of comments about this being rare. It isn’t. I have found many comments from people through the ‘net under 5’ 9” or over 6’ 1”. I clearly wasn’t in the design height range.I’ve been riding bikes for 40 years across many manufacturers. I’ve not had a problem with any of my other BMs with or without screens. Examples being S1000R Sport, R nine T, RT etc.
It had got to the point that I didn’t want to ride this bike. If it was anything like my 2015 GS or any of my RTs I be expect to cover up to 600 miles a day.
I bought the GSA as the ‘cheeky’ alternative to the RT. It should be a sportier ride. It’s a great engine once you are used to it. Compared to the 1200 it initially feels like it will stall when pulling away.
I’ve marked this down for quality I.e. the ride itself. Otherwise I’d give it 5.
Value is poor as I didn’t want to ride it, see above.
It didn’t lack for anything and I sprang a further £2k on an Akrapovic and boxes. Tyres were fine - anarkees.
Buying experience: Dealer bought. One I know well having bought many bikes from them. A good experience.
Version: TE
Year: 2019
A great all around bike that ticks the “do-it-all” boxUpside - no chain maintenance Downside - cost of insurance
Rides well especially in dynamic mode. Auto adjusting preload is brilliant.I’m not that “bike-fit” yet but can do an hour and a half currently without a break so I can imagine it being 2hrs + once I’m fully used to it
Noise, torque and general feeling are excellent
Not due service yet but I expect it to be costly at main dealer
Buying experience: Purchased from main dealer with 2yrs warranty so I’m confident that I’m going to be Ok if anything goes wrong
Version: Rallye TE
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £250
Apart from the obvious tank range, the bike is all-day comfy. I'm 6ft 3in and find the space on the bike very comfy. I love the colour scheme of the Rallye and the tyres are very impressive in both the wet and dry. The quick shifter is tons better than my earlier 2015 GS but it's not what you would call buttery smooth by a long way. If you get too high in the rev range it can be very jerky. The power of the 1250 engine is noticeably better than the 1200 and it very quickly gets to naughty speeds, you really have to watch it. The weight of the bike can be a bit of an issue at times, not riding as it completely disappears but when you park up you need to be careful and not get it on a big slope or getting it off the side stand can be a challenge.
The bike is definitely an all-rounder, it can cruise it can scratch it can tour, it can even go off-road, not that mine ever will. It was bought as a touring bike because I find the traditional tourers a bit too cramped for my ageing Rugby knees. The bike will just keep going however, I need a pee after 150 miles so anything else is superfluous. The brakes feel a bit weird at first, when you first pull the front nothing much seems to happen, totally different to my previous GS, I'm not sure about them yet and it's still to be decided if I like the feeling, they do feel very wooden compared to the GS.
The engine is amazing, it's quick, responsive and sounds very nice with the Acropovic factory exhaust on. The power delivery is smooth and it really climbs through the speedo at an alarming rate of you want it to. It also pulls in any gear and 30 in 6th is not an issue at all.
So far everything is working as intended. The TFT dash is awesome and the integration with my iPhone and Pactalk bold is faultless. Very impressed so far.
It's a BMW, if you want cheap then you need to look elsewhere. It will do 250-280 on a full tank which costs around £30.00, averaging around 43mpg. Servicing is the usual BMW extortion, but if you want to maintain the value and warranty then it has to be done.
I love the TFT dash, cruise control is awesome and everyday useful especially with the 1250s acceleration. Heated grips are a godsend on cold days and the down blipper is nice if you are having a bit of a play on the twisties. I really like the tyres that came as standard, Bridgestone A21's and they feel every bit as nice as the Pilots I had on the GS.
Buying experience: Listed price £22,300 paid £18,910. I bought from Marshall BMW Grimsby and they were awesome, no fuss, no messing around with price, they gave me their best offer and we made a deal just how it should be.
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £500
Fantastic touring bike. Big, solid and stable. Loads of safety features to get you out of trouble if required.
Lots of ride adjustment if required Plenty of feel on brakes, great ABS
Great torque - pulls from low revs It’s a tourer, not a boy racer machine Rather noisy at times! There are lots of better sounding machines out there if this bothers you.
Boxer mill and shaft drive. Sounds a bit agricultural but always reliable
Yes, BMW main dealers are expensive
Serves all my needs well
Buying experience: Main dealer who wouldn’t budge an inch on price or value added extras.
Version: Rallye TE
Year: 2019
Because it’s a GS, parts are twice the price of similar bikes. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s any better than a Japanese equivalent.
If you want to do long distances, this bike is very good for the rider but the pillion not so hence 4 out of 5
Not the fastest thing on two wheels but that’s not why you buy a GS. If you’ve come from a sports bike you’ll find it a bit underwhelming. The gearbox is still very agricultural compared with Japanese or Italian bikes. The quickshifter is a bit of a joke as well. On the plus side, the engine isn’t buzzy and never feels like it’s struggling. Good MPG if that bothers you.
The bike never failed but the stainless panniers filled with water on my 1st trip and had to be replaced. In my opinion there are better panniers out there other than BMW.
Still waiting to get it’s 1st annual service so I can’t comment on how good or bad it is.
Comes well equipped, but you pay for it. Don’t buy BMW panniers, I’m really not impressed. If you want heated grips they work extremely well, warm or thermonuclear settings. Fender extender is required as soon as you buy the bike along with a crud catcher or hugger. You can spend a small fortune on accessories for a GS. It’s a bit of a pig to try and sync your phone to the bike or satnav to get it to work with comms. Your music will play at one level and the satnav cuts in and nearly bursts your eardrums. I’ve tried various ways of connecting them all but still haven’t found a perfect way yet and the dealer can’t tell me either. I do like the extra lights which are bright so car drivers can see you coming and the led dash is also very clear and easy to see. The automatic suspension settings are the best thing about the bike. Two or three pushes of the buttons and you can adjust the ride height and firmness of the suspension, for somebody who hasn’t a clue how to set up suspension it is a godsend. The anti dive telelever front end is really good as well. I don’t find that the front of the bike is a bit distant feeling. Keyless ignition I can take or leave. Hill hold assist is a brilliant idea especially when the bike is fully laden with a pillion.
Buying experience: Bought the bike new from a dealer. Gave me long test rides on several bikes. Really can’t fault the purchase experience from BMW Dundee.
Version: TE
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £300
Stunning colour in Ice grey, fantastic fairing design, awesome engine upgrade and simply very easy on the eye!!!
Buying experience: Dealer
Version: Exclusive
Year: 2019
Fantastic motorcycle
Phenomenal ride quality and excellent brakes
Smooth and powerful
Good and sound quality
BMW service still a bit pricey
Recommend that if you decide to buy this bike, go for all the optionals and packages.
Version: TE
Year: 2019
So far I am very happy with my purchase.
Shift cam is definitely a noticeable improvement.
Early doors with just 3000 miles but so far so good.
It seems the harder you ride the earlier your service intervals become. I will monitor this after my second service.
TE spec bike is loaded with goodies. TFT dash is brilliant in all light conditions.