BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Questions & Answers

Depending on the model of course, it is basically the same engine so....if you want to tow a trailer, nothing much will change except the setup. Yes, I have owned both and they they largely do what they are designed to do. The RT is a great mile muncher as long as it is bitumen predominately.

I had a GSA and rode it across Russia and Europe and found it to be absolutely ideal in everything except mud. It carries the world easily and is pretty happy on dirt tracks, tight terrain and autobahns.

In hindsight, the GSA just gave me more options but it was a bit harder for my wife to get onto.

Go with the GSA for trekking around AUS!

I haven't ridden the RT before, but I'd say you're basically running the same machine between your legs, so little difference in towing is likely. The bottom line is if you plan to go off-road or not (i.e. more than compact dry dirt roads). I'm 6"2, and use a screen extender, along with an AirHawk seat for longer touring, and I'm comfy all day. Having said that, I mostly ride my GSA off-road (probably in places a 1200 has no right to be!).

Off-road option? Definitely the GS/A

Sealed/easy dirt option? Either

Keep in mind, the GSA will chew through rear knobby tires pretty quick(about 4-6K kms, depending on riding style/surfaces), so if you're only allowing for 'occasional' off-road, then stick with an 80-20 tyre for the range (Heidenau Scouts are worth a look too). Given you'll be towing, I expect you'll have a reasonable budget for rear tyres anyway.

Perhaps figure you're itinerary/destinations first, then decide what bike you'll need. Otherwise, just go straight for the GS/A and that way you'll have more options. Having done a lot of outback travel myself, I'd definitely go the GSA...........absolutely!

Thanks everyone I appreciate all the valuable comments. I know the motor is the same........ i was actually referring to the weight and menouvering of the bike itself . But i get the picture it is a great bike. I would definitely take the GSA for a test ride. Will let you know what I think. Cheers

Battleaxe

How many km out of a tank of fuel

If you are planning to do the French line Rd, you'll be cresting hundreds of soft chewed up sand dunes. I've seen legends like Miles Davis and Darryl Beattie struggle with this big bike on that sort of stuff - and that's without luggage! Honestly, I think it would be an extremely difficult challenge, especially in 35degree heat, trying to ride it though that kind of stuff. If you had a backup vehicle, (to carry your luggage), and at least one other person ready to lift you out of the softer sand where you've dug in, then go for it!! Go to my YouTube site (search for 'gonescratchin') - the last video uploaded shows me dug in to the rear hub on the beach, and that's on sand much firmer than you'll be dealing with. (In case the link works, go here - external link . I don't drop my tyre pressures below about 23psi, to protect the rims of such a heavy bike.

Hi Andre, go with a lighter bike is the short answer. The 1200GSA is a handful to keep picking up. On the bright side you could become really good at lifting the bike up or just take a lot of friends to help.

I am wrestling with the same concern on a trip across the desert next year!

Andre, almost forgot, yes you will need to drop the pressure to about 20lbs so take a pump!

Use a Suzuki DR650 with a larger tank for off road. GS1200 a great all rounder but you'll enjoy that kind of a trip more fun on the DR