the skeptic in me still doesnt trust the shaft drive and their dry clutches but I suppose with a new bike that wont be an issue
Wow has this thread turned from a simple dealer suggestion
The GS has been liquid cooled with an integrated transmission and equipped with a wet clutch since 2013.
The only criticism I have seen of the 1250 Boxer (Ryan Fort9) was that it was unnecessary for an off-road bike.
It is an incredible motor with excellent torque and drivability and great motor for all the R models.
The GS is one of the best all round and travel bikes but not the best single track bike due to its weight.
Apart from the the KTM 790/890 and Yamaha T7 and previous versions of the AT most of these bikes are not ideal single track bikes unless your are a very skilled rider.
The New Africa Twin 1100 has departed away from the simple off road bike and is gaining in heft as it evolves to a GS like bike
The recent GS models and especially the liquid cooled bikes have not had many driveshaft failures. Most were caused by poor maintenance, water crossings and extreme angles from over loading.