2018 vs 2019 950 Base

[kltk1]

Hey folks, I'm looking at a 2018 MTS 950 here in the U.S. and wanted to know, other than the switchgear, what would be the difference between a 2018 and 2019 MTS 950? I know there are certain options available to the 2019 950 S model like cruise control, color display, Skyhook suspension. Of those things the only option that I would REALLY want would be the ability to add cruise control. That said, below are a couple of questions I have.

1) Can factory cruise control be added to a 2019 950 base model? Cruise control is not a major concern for me but it is a very nice option to have.

2) I rode an MTS 950 when they first came out in 2017 and was underwhelmed on that first test ride. Perhaps it was the area I rode the bike, but I was hoping it would share the snappy nature of my Monster 821. Alas, it did not. Sport mode was best but it was still just OK. I'm going to give it another go but I'm wondering if I should expect any difference in fuel maps or power delivery between a 2018 and a 2019 model?


Search didn't turn up much in the way of riding comparisons between the two model years either. If I missed a discussion about that, I'd appreciate it if someone could direct me to the thread. Thank you.

[Paul_Smith]

The base 950 has only had cosmetic changes. The 'S' model got the full electronic suite from the 1250S including the SkyHook suspension and 5" TFT. If you didn't enjoy the base model in 2017, then not a lot has changed that is likely to change your mind. That said, I would still suggest a test ride.

[kltk1]

Thank you very much. I’m going to do that for sure. I’m reading so much about the 950 being a great package I think I need to give it another try. It’s possible I just had a bad test ride. In the End, it seems the only differences between base models is the switchgear and I’m ok with that as I’m more familiar with the ‘18 layout because it’s similar to my monster. 

[David S]

 I have a 2018, and I too would also liked to have had the cruise control, but I did add an Atlas throttle lock.
Out of all the throttle locks I have had in the past, I have to admit the Atlas does seem to work the best. I've
put on 12K miles in 2 years just in road trips and it works fine.

[kltk1]

Thank you. Sadly, it seems like the only option for cruise is to opt for an S package. Hard for me to justify at, at least, a $4-5k swing in price just to add cruise. If I’m going to go $15k it’s hard not to look at a used 2015/16 1200GS with bags. I’ve seen 2017 M1200S tour models in the $13k range as well.

It’s all going to come down to the test ride. If the 2018 M950 moves me it becomes a pretty good value at $10k considering its a new demo bike and will come with a two year warranty. A set of bags, I’m guessing will come in around $1k. $11k isn’t bad. An S with saddlebags at $12.5k wound be a good find.

In the end, it all comes down to the test ride.

[David S]

Dealer in Denver has a 2019 S with 4250 miles, and bags for $14,395. Just FYI

[kltk1]

Thank you. '16 GS, 6k miles, $13.5k. No bags. Add $1k for bags. See my point. While not the same, the GS and the M950 are more similar than the M1200 in that the GS is less powerful than the M1200 but more than powerful enough and a little more powerful than the M950. This would make for a nicer bike when riding 2-up with bags filled.

https://www.cycletrader.com/listing/2016-BMW-R1200GS-5015880740

[David S]

I agree. Two up the GS would be the preferable machine. I have nothing bad to say about them, my riding buddy has had three of them.

[motorman]

On your test ride make sure the set the DTC to 2 or 3 ( or whatever your settings are on the Monster 821), as this will limit acceleration.

The Monster 821 is a lighter bike.

One of the benefits of the 950, IMHO is there is less heat than the 1200/1260. 
GS really has no issue with the heat (boxer cylinders away from rider) and is definitely an excellent machine (4 buddies currently ride the 2016-18 with no issues).

I bought a leftover 2017 for 11,800 in 2019.  I use a Karoke throttle Lock and like it.  Not the same as cruise control but nice. 

Let us know what you decide!