Adventure Touring King
In the realm of adventure touring, there is one model that reigns over all. The large displacement GS has topped sales charts globally for decades, capturing well over 50% of our local market. It is the go-to machine for those who love to ride long distances, often off the beaten path.
Related: BMW GS model launch (2024) First Ride Review
2024 saw the introduction of an all-new, from the ground up, GS model, which received a new chassis, new engine and new tech and features. Global demand for the new bike was so high that SA had to wait a considerable amount of time before receiving our allocation of these machines, and it was on the back of the local launch, we received our first test unit. We spent a few days plying the roads and gravel of the highveld to find out if Bavaria's changes were significant enough.
How do I choose the right size and type of motorcycle for my needs?
Styling
Although the 1300 retains many of its same styling notes as the outgoing 1250, it is worth noting that it is completely new, from the pressed steel chassis that replaced the old tube construction to the suspension, engine and, of course, body panels that are now more slick and slippery. The bike is smaller, thinner and sleeker than the old 1250, but climbing onboard, you realise that despite the big change sits still the familial GS layout
The new lighting signature is the biggest sticking point for many purists. Gone is the old symmetrical design, and in its place is an X-shaped arrangement, which we quite like and gives the bike a somewhat more aggressive look. The smart LED lighting also makes the bike stand out day or night.
Tech and Features
BMW went to town during the redesign, incorporating an absolute shed load of kit into the new 1300. There is a new ESA Adaptive suspension front and rear that runs a clever height adjustment system for those shorter in the leg. There is a new suite of dynamic ride modes for almost every surface or situation, radar cruise control for open-road cruising, a new electronically controlled screen and wind deflectors, and collision warning with auto braking.
All these features make the new GS just that much better to ride in all conditions. They will serve professional and experienced riders as well as complete rookies just starting out.
Engine and Drivetrain
The GS has flown the flag for Boxer engines for years, and the new engine is an absolute peach. Any similarities to the old 1250 unit can be binned right now as this new piece of engineering is so completely different from the old unit that it is hard to believe. The new engine is almost 4 kg lighter than the old one and delivers more torque with slightly more power, but it has moved the usable riding power range down to a more happy 5 000 r/min range, meaning that when you poke it for power, it delivers in spades.
As we have said, the bike has a new chassis and drivetrain components, which lighten the bike by almost 12 kg. This gives the 1300 this lightweight feeling that belies its kerb mass. The bike feels lighter under you, inspiring greater confidence in corners and even on gravel surfaces.
Let's ride
Swing a leg over the lowered GS1300, you are greeted by a sense of familiarity, wide handlebars, a big tank, scroll wheels where they are supposed to be, and the recognizable TFT screen, but that is where it ends. Slipping it into 1st gear and pulling away, you immediately notice the lower weight and extra power delivery. The quick-shifter is sometimes a bit hit-and-miss, but if you get the hang of it, it becomes a little something special to sweeten the ride.
Twisting the throttle releases a happy burble from the stainless steel exhaust that elicits a smile. The GS wants to be let off its leash, and when you do let it run, it is amazing. Comparably, the old GS is a chore to ride compared to the lighter and agile 1300, which eats up road miles like nothing. Our test ride saw us attacking both tar and gravel circuits, and the 1300 was so incredibly well composed.
Pros
- Excellent software and user interface
- Wind protection is brilliant
- Power delivery is smooth and predictable
- Super comfortable
- So easy to manage in multipole riding scenarios
Cons
- Quickshifter is not all that great
- Random electronics warnings
- At full deployment, the top of the windscreen is in direct eye line
Models and Price
The new 1300GS is available in three model derivatives. The large GSA model has yet to be launched in SA
| R 1300 GS | R 262 000 |
| R 1300 GS Triple Black | R 327 500 |
| R 1300 GS Trophy | R 342 200 |
* Base prices correct at time of publication. Pricing may vary depending on extra equipment included on motorcycle.
Verdict
The GS is the Swiss army knife of the bike world. It does many things reasonably well, but no one thing extremely well. It will never be as composed on the road as a Ducati Multistrada or as competent offroad as a KTM Super Adventure. Still, it is perfect for those seeking a bike that can do everything for anyone anytime. We love what BMW has done with the latest model and if you are in the market for a bike of this ilk then you can't go wrong with one, however, if you have a 1250 model that is still under finance and in good condition, we wouldn't justify or recommend running off to your local Motorrad dealer to upgrade.
