King of Adventure
When the subject of BMW motorcycles comes up the first thing anyone thinks of is the evergreen GS. The GS has been a staple of the BMW lineup and continues to be one of their bestsellers. Now in its 40th year of production, the GS is still winning over hearts and minds across the globe.
Related: BMW R 1250 GS Triple Black (2022) Review
We recently tested the standard GS in Triple Black trim and found it to be a consummate companion on the road, the GSA model is a completely different kettle of fish, almost coming across as a completely different machine. We spent a few days with the GSA and now understand a little better why this has become such a legendary machine.
Style
Our test unit was pretty hard to miss, resplendent in the Rallye colour scheme. The red, blue, and white look the best of the lot especially when you pair all the extra crash bars, luggage racks and the spoke wheels. The GSA model is also taller and wider than the standard GS adding to the beefier look. The GSA gets LED lighting front and rear with a set of small spots attached to the crash bars and a wider 30l fuel tank with keyless entry.
Tech
The first piece of tech that you will encounter is the large TFT screen that contains all the relevant controls for the machine, from the seat and handlebar heating controls to the Bluetooth connectivity and rider modes. The ride modes consist of Road, Eco, Rain and the optional Dynamic Pro settings for when you want to hit the dirt. You also get adjustable traction control, and ABS settings as well as Hill-start assist and a 6-axis Bosch IMU
Engine and Drivetrain
The GSA has the same engine as the standard GS but offers a completely different riding experience. The horizontally opposed boxer engine delivers 100kW and 143Nm seamlessly, and it is nothing short of fantastic to ride, powering through corners or simply chugging along at highway speeds. Upfront there is the Telelever front suspension and at the rear, the Paralever takes care of the soft cushy ride. The GSA rides somewhat higher than the GS but not by much and comes to an abrupt stop when you get on the 305mm brakes with their 4-pot callipers.
Let's ride
If you've ever wondered what it would be like to take your favourite easy chair on a breakfast run then wonder no further. The GSA is beautifully compliant and cushy with one barely noticing the kilometres flying by. If you are not paying attention you can easily do well over 600km one way without blinking an eye. A twist of the throttle wakes up the engine and the GSA leaps forward to devour the road ahead, averaging roughly 5l/100km with some combined riding.
Pros and Cons
- Bigger fuel capacity
- More suspension travel
- Excellent TFT screen
- Torquey motor
- Confusing sub menus
Model and Pricing
BMW 1250 GS Adventure - R 353 400
* Prices correct at time of publication and are subject to change
Verdict
It is plain to see why BMW can lay claim to King of the adventure bike market in South Africa, The GS and GSA are made for the African continent or anywhere where the tar ends or continues. There is very little to fault here and is most likely the reason why the GS and GSA are the first port of call for many adventure bikers the globe over.
