I really like those new GS's and would have looked had there been a GSA

 

When I test rode the 1300GS, I also rode a '23 R1250GSA back to back, really the 1250 was not giving up much to the 1300 and I would have bought the GSA had they offered me a decent trade offer on the Pan America. And went for the 1300 a couple of years from now. But my 1300GS came up a week or so later at another dealer (Cycle Werks in Barrington, IL) and we were able to cut a deal over SMS text... (Never a phone call or having to drive up for negotiations, just had to send some pics and details.).

In fact, here's my old Pan America on Cycle Werks site, if anyone is interested in a solid, never given any trouble '21 that is fully kitted out. https://www.cyclewerks.com/listings/...il-stk-24197b/

(I have a few parts, a couple of wind screens and rox risers in the pan am classifieds.)

 

Wow, you traveled pretty far to get that bike. I use to live out in that neighboring area and found it odd to find a BMW motorcycle dealership there. But I wasn't surprised because when everyone thinks about Barrington, they have this perception that everyone is extremely wealthy.

There is a lot of old money floating around that area. Anyways. I thought the vario bags were recalled. I'm surprised they even sold them to you. Unless it was the topcase that was having issues.

 

@3dognate I'd be interested in the top 4 or 5 things you like about the 1300 vs the PA. Nothing beats the perspective of owners vs reviewers.

 

I've been waiting for the Pan America to work out the kinks on that bike. I did a demo ride when they first came out with a PAS with Adaptive Ride Height. That was a game changer for me at 5'8" with 28" inseams. I have a KTM 1190 in the garage that is a handful with it being soooo tall. The kickstand on the Pan America oddly located for me though. The Pan America with the HUGE Harley network of dealers was really appealing to me, but just heard, read, seen many used ones, that it spooks me a bit to take the plunge.

I'm in the hunt for my next Adventure Style Bike. I say "Style" as my off road river crossing days are over. Lol. I do like the upright seating and agility of the Adv styled bikes.
On my sort list are"
- Triumph Tiger 900 (or 900 GT)
- Ducati Multistrada V2S (Yeah I know but it is a sweet bike)

 

Barrington is like 2.5 hrs away, that's not too far. My nearest BMW dealer is in Urbana, which is about an hour in traffic. My bike was used and the bags were on it, They sold it with the cases like a month before the recall.

 

So, I really liked the Pan America. Full stop, it's a killer bike. But, for sport:

The Adaptive Cruise Control was a big one, Quick-Shifter (My PA was a '21 so no adding that.), Stable Software, The 1300GS is a WAY better looking bike than the 1250 was IMHO. The triple black version I got is a more road focused trim-package, I've also had many BMWs (this will be my eighth) over the years and I'm a boxer motor fan. I've owned 4 Harleys and will probably shop for another next spring... I'd do it now but just scored a 2015 Ducati Monster 1200S that I couldn't pass up.

But my choice to move to a R1300GS is more about me and the gassing for a new bike, and wanting to try a GS since they get so much praise and already being comfortable with the BMW brand.

I am taking another chance on a 1st year motor. I did it in 2017 with my M8 Road Glide, 2021 with the Pan America and the 1300 is an all new motor for BMW. I'm a glutton for punishment.

 

Thank you for that. The 1300 is a good-looking big Adv. I have a '14 Monster 1200. The only bike I ever had that you have to constantly practice, to ride well. It certainly makes one work for their fun.

 

Hard to beat a GS, and the new version looks great. Can't hate on you for making the trade.