Right? It’s as much as a new Miata.

I have a good job and live within my means (no debt other than mortgage) and I still feel left behind by current housing and vehicle prices.

I have a 2007 R1200RT. Around 60K miles. It’s 44 lbs lighter than this newest model, btw. Last year I had a new Ohlins front and rear suspension installed and new Michelin Road 5GTs put on and she rides like a dream. I have a matching top box and that with the hard bags (and bag liners from Bob’s BMW) gives my wife and me plenty of space to pack for 3 week trips, as we’ve done multiple times.

It’ll be a while before I buy a new one.

Yes. The GS is indeed a remarkable bike. My only issue with it, as well as a V-Strom that I used to own, is seat height ! I have found the adventure bikes simply too high for my comfort zone, especially regarding slow speed handling. Also, since BMW is going to fully linked brakes, both front and rear, my safety training advocating the use of some rear brake (only !) for low speed maneuvering is not longer possible.

I am 71 as well.
I had a 2013 liquid cooled RT. In 2017 I traded it on a 2018 1200GS. I was having service at the dealer, and telling my salesman that I loved the RT except for the weight and the lack of airflow.
He suggested I take the GS for a ride. After all, they are the same engine. Even though I never leave the pavement (and therefore had never considered a “big dual sport”, I was impressed with how it felt under me. Much better airflow, but the GS also felt easier and more willing in the corners, which was never a complaint of mine on the RT.
If you are looking to upgrade at some point, at least try one. Unless you live in a very cold climate, the GS has what I think is a better balance between protection from the wind while being cooler. My RT just did not allow enough air for my taste.
The GS is much lighter as well.