Yeah, probably any model newer than the old R80/100GS is in most cases the better choice. The old GS was designed in the late seventies which is nearly 30 years ago, but there is no black box and other fuzzy electronics or fancy fuel injection to trouble you.

None the less it still is much appreciated by many bikers, myself included ;-)

The main advantage is the simple and (fairly) reliable construction. But as Bedhist states correctly the gearbox is a critical business. Mine was shot at 38000 Kms. Main bearings. The trouble here was that BMW originally had secured the bearing with a lock washer(?) but on later models (mine is a 1993 model) just glued it. The positive side of the repairs was that I had the chance to fit a shorter 1st and a longer 5th gear plus a ceramic clutch.

All in all I spent a small fortune to make a decent bike out of the R80GS. After the gearbox I fitted a dual ignition, had pistons & conrods balanced, improved the suspension and had a more comfortable seat made. Now it nearly behaves like a japanese bike....

For my liking the choice is between the Africa Twin and the old GS. The AT is a very good and very reliable bike with the minor disadvantage that the servicing is a pain in the a*** having to disassemble half the bike. And the centre of gravity is much higher than of the GS. But both bikes have sufficient power even at low revs and are quite comfortable on long trips. The best invention was the kickstarter on the old GS.

Cheers,
Hans

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