BMW R 1300 GS

In terms of dimensions, the BMW R 1300 GS measures 2,212 mm in length, 1,000 mm in width, 1,406 mm in overall height, and 850 mm in seat height. This adventure-tourer also has a wheelbase of 1,518 mm.

The BMW R 1300 GS features an aggressive look defined by sharp contours and rugged design cues. Its modern fascia is illuminated with a unique-looking symmetrical LED matrix headlight and DRLs. For better visibility, it also comes with turn indicators that are integrated into the hand protectors. On top, it comes with an adjustable windscreen, providing the rider with great wind and weather protection at all times.

Up front, the rider gets a TFT display with BMW Motorrad Connectivity, a smartphone charging compartment with a USB charging socket, heated grips, as well as the aforementioned hand protectors designed for added safety off-road. Its dual-stepped seat is plush and very supportive both on short and long-distance trips. However, its height might be a bit high for riders under 6 ft. tall. On the plus side, this adventure-tourer comes with a functional sport grab handle bridge, metal pillion footrests, and rider foot pegs. 

Going back to design, the non-standard trims flaunt their respective model-exclusive liveries from the side. The Triple Black trim features a sporty blacked-out silhouette, while the GS Trophy flaunts a mix of orange and blue motorsport shades. Meanwhile, the Option 719 Tramuntana showcases the Option 719 Aurelius Green metallic paint with exclusive badging. This trim’s wheels are also fitted with gold-anodised rims. That said, the R 1300 GS line runs on aluminum cast wheels (front: 19-inch, rear: 17-inch). Lastly, its sharp, steeply-inclined rear is flanked by a rectangular LED tail light.

The BMW R 1300 GS is equipped with a BMW Motorrad EVO-Telelever at the front and a BMW Motorrad EVO-Paralever at the rear. This advanced setup offers great stability and enhanced overall handling both on- and off-road. This adventure-tourer is confidence-inspiring to ride, whether you are carving corners or tackling rocky and muddy terrain. Meanwhile, in the city, it also offers good weight management, allowing you to filter through traffic and crowded areas with confidence.

Powering the BMW R 1300 GS is a 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled, four-stroke flat twin engine that produces 145 hp of maximum power and 149 Nm of maximum torque. This motorcycle comes mated to a 6-speed claw-shifted (manual transmission) gearbox. 

This adventure-tourer accelerates with ease on the open road. You’ll also be able to smoothly upshift and downshift on this motorcycle, thanks to its gearbox’s wet clutch. It is lively and produces an invigorating roar at high speeds while remaining sensible and refined at lower speeds. Most importantly, you can adjust how it performs depending on your current riding condition, courtesy of its four riding modes: Eco, Rain, Road, and Enduro.

In terms of braking, the BMW R 1300 GS comes with twin disc brakes with a 4-piston radial brake caliper at the front and a single disc brake with a 2-piston floating caliper at the rear. Its braking setup is supported by BMW Motorrad’s Full Integral ABS Pro.

Aside from that, this adventure-tourer is equipped with dynamic traction control, dynamic brake control, dynamic cruise control, hill start control, engine drag torque control, as well as tyre pressure control.

In my opinion, the BMW R 1300 GS is a near-perfect premium adventure-touring motorcycle. This is because it excellently performs in the most crucial factors that make each trip enjoyable and worthwhile, namely comfort, safety, and modern performance.