The 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure receives significant upgrades.
For 2024, the BMW R 1300 GS was massively updated, including a new and more powerful Boxer engine, a new sheet-metal main frame, a new cast-aluminum subframe, a next-gen suspension system, and more. For 2025, the BMW R 1300 GS Adventure is added to the lineup, with a few changes that make it even more capable of long-haul touring and adventure riding.
The 2025 R 1300 GS Adventure benefits from the upgrades made to the base GS, including the 1,300cc Boxer engine that produces a claimed 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 110 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. The new engine is also lighter in weight than the previous 1,254cc engine by 9 lb, while the whole powertrain weighs 14 lb less.
Another upgrade to the GS and GSA is the laser-welded sheet-metal main frame and cast-aluminum subframe, which is said to be lighter, stiffer, narrower, and more tightly bonded to the main frame. The Telelever and Paralever suspension systems have been replaced with the next-gen EVO Telelever and Paralever systems. Both bikes also receive significant styling updates, including a replacement of the signature asymmetrical headlight with a centralized X-shaped headlight. For a more comprehensive overview of the BMW R 1300 GS upgrades, read our First Ride review here.
The BMW R 1300 GSA departs from the GS in a few key aspects meant to make it more capable for longer adventures. Most noticeable is the massive 7.9-gallon fuel tank, which holds nearly three gallons more than the tank on the GS. This large tank has rubberized trays on either side, where tools and items can be placed when stopped.
The GSA also gets longer suspension travel than the GS, from 7.5 inches front and 7.9 inches rear to 8.3 inches front and 8.7 inches rear, the same travel length found on the previous R 1250 GS Adventure. The seat height is a tall 34.3-35.0 inches, which can be reduced to 33.1-33.9 inches when stopped if equipped with the optional Adaptive Vehicle Height Control. The wheels on the GSA are spoked compared to the GS’s cast wheels, and the GSA has a wet weight of 593 lb compared to the GS’s 523 lb.
The BMW R 1300 GS Adventure also includes a few extras that do not come standard on the GS. Where the GS comes with a short Sport windscreen, the GSA has a standard large windscreen with two large transparent wind deflectors. Riders can also choose to purchase the optional electric windscreen adjustment. The GSA also includes an engine guard and a centerstand as standard, adding more adventure-ready attitude to the beefier GSA.
Electronics on the GSA include a 6.5-inch TFT with connectivity, Full Integral ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Cruise Control, Dynamic Engine Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, a keyless ignition, three riding modes, heated grips, full LED lighting, a USB-C charging port, a 12-volt power socket, and Intelligent Emergency Call.
One exciting option for the GSA is the Automated Shift Assistant, in which two electromechanical actuators automate the clutch and gearshift of the 6-speed transmission, eliminating the need to use the hand clutch lever at all.
Other optional technology includes Ride Modes Pro with three additional riding modes, Electronic Dynamic Suspension Adjustment, Adaptive Vehicle Height Control, Headlight Pro with an adaptive headlight, and Riding Assistant with Active Cruise Control, Front Collison Warning, and Lane Change Warning.
The GSA is designed to be modified, and BMW offers many accessories for this model. Riders will notice three fastening elements on the upper tank paneling that are prepared to mount the optional 12-liter tankbag with a waterproof inner bag. A range of aluminum side and top cases are available, as well as items to enhance passenger comfort, wind protection, heated seats, and more.
2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure with optional equipment
GSA owners can also choose options packages to equip. The Premium Package includes Ride Modes Pro, sport brakes, Riding Assistant, Shift Assistant Pro or Automated Shift Assistant, Headlight Pro, GPS prep, chrome plated headers, electrically adjustable windscreen, aluminum side case mounts, and aluminum top case mount. The Enduro Package Pro includes handlebar risers, short enduro hand levers, height-adjustable GS Vario rider footrests, hand protectors, and front turn signal relocation stalks.
2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure
The 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure base model will be available in solid Racing Red. The Style Triple Black version, with large aluminum radiator cowls with holders for bags, comfort seats with seat heating, a luggage holder, and a high windshield with large wind defectors, comes in a black color scheme.
2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Style Triple Black
The Style GS Trophy version comes in Racing Blue and Racing Red and includes a smaller Sport windscreen and sport grab handles for the passenger, large radiator cowls with mounts for bags, and aluminum tank trays.
2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Style GS Trophy
The Option 719 Karakorum comes in Aurelius Green with gold accents and includes small aluminum radiator cowls, a protective grille on the auxiliary headlights, heated rider and passenger comfort seats, a luggage rack, and a small Sport windscreen.
2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Option 719 Karakorum
The 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure will be available in the last quarter of 2024, and pricing will be announced closer to the market launch.
Riders competing in the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 Namibia event, Sept. 15-20, will do so on the BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike, a bike based on the R 1300 Style GS Trophy with a few extras to help tackle riding in East Africa.
Celebrating togetherness through competition, the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy features off-road enthusiasts from 22 national teams competing in various tests, including GPS navigation exercises, off-road rides, and technical tests. A total of 60 riders will compete in Namibia in 2024.
The BMW R 1300 GS received significant upgrades for 2024. Displacement was increased from 1,254cc to 1,300cc, peak horsepower increased from 136 to 145, and peak torque increased from 105 to 110 lb-ft. The new GS is also 26 lb lighter than the previous R 1250 GS, the previous tubular-steel space frame has been replaced with a sheet-metal main frame, and the Telelever and Paralever suspension systems have been upgraded to the next generation. More has been changed for this updated model, which you can read more about in our First Ride Review.
BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike (left) and F 900 GS Trophy Marshal Bike (right)
The BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike, which is not available for sale, is very similar to the R 1300 Style GS Trophy model with the optional Enduro Package Pro. It’s fitted with handlebar risers, an engine protection bar, a skid plate and frame guard, adjustable gear shift and brake levers, GS Vario rider footrests, enduro hand levers, a headlight protection guard, and white handguard extensions. It also features off-road tires on black cross-spoked wheels and a solo seat.
The GS Trophy Marshals will guide riders through Namibia during the event, and they’ll also get specific bikes for the job. The BMW F 900 GS Trophy Marshal Bike is based on the BMW F 900 GS mid-sized ADV, which was also updated for 2024. Updates include the engine punched out to 895cc making 105 hp, larger forged pistons, a weight reduction of 31 lb, a new Akrapovič muffler, a lower tailsection, and more.
The BMW R 12 nineT merges classic flash with modern dash.
The 2024 BMW R 12 nineT is the latest addition to BMW’s storied lineup of heritage motorcycles, blending classic design elements with modern technology and performance. This classically styled roadster helps celebrate the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad.
The horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engine is as synonymous with BMW as V-Twins are with Harley-Davidsons. The boxer is a BMW hallmark, long known for its distinctive aesthetic and linear power delivery. A 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer is proudly on display in the R 12 nineT.
The R 12 nineT looks stunning, especially in its San Remo Green Metallic colorway, a $325 option over the standard Black Storm Metallic. The sculpted aluminum front fender mount is a nice touch.
The R nineT was introduced in 2013, capturing the attention of riders who wanted the appearance of a vintage cafe racer but with modern performance and capabilities. More than 110,000 have been shuffled out of BMW dealers.
For 2024, the model has changed names to include a displacement reference, the “12” added to this R 12 nineT. With a new exhaust and different tuning, the low-slung boxer produces 107 hp and is fitted into a new one-piece frame. The chassis is shared with the new R 12 cruiser ($12,345), which is detuned to 95 hp to satisfy European A2 license requirements. Both engines have identical torque curves below 6,000 rpm.
The R 12 nineT’s exhaust system has new header pipes with a crossover tube pumping burned gases to a chamber below the engine that houses the catalytic converter, now with a lambda sensor after the cat to help meet Euro 5 regulations.
The R 12 nineT starts at $16,990 including its $695 destination fee. Adding optional equipment can quickly vault MSRP. The Select Package adds $1,524 to the price and includes an up/down quickshifter, cruise control, heated grips, Hill Start Assist Pro, and Connected Ride Control with a Bluetooth interface.
A new steel-trellis frame replaces the previous two-piece frame, eliminating some fasteners and slightly reducing its weight, also resulting in a cleaner appearance. The subframe is detachable to enable customization.
Forking over another $2,275 accesses the delectable Option 719 package. It features a red frame and is capped off brilliantly by a brushed finish on the aluminum fuel tank, windscreen, rear fender, and a tail hump (a $1,020 option on its own). It also features a slathering of machined billet-aluminum components, including cylinder head covers, adjustable hand and foot controls, bar-end mirrors, and expansion-tank cover, plus a different seat and exhaust system.
The optional aluminum tailpiece helps create one of the nicest butts on a production motorcycle. The turnsignal lamps serve double duty as taillights to keep the rear end tidy.
But wait, there’s more! A minimalist 3.5-inch TFT instrument panel can be added for $145, but BMW wanted to give buyers the choice to opt for the newly designed twin round analog gauges, which are perhaps more appropriate for the retro-inspired nineT. Tubeless wire-spoke wheels are a $695 option to replace the standard cast-aluminum hoops, if that’s the look you prefer.
All versions of the nineT include keyless ignition, an IMU to inform traction control and cornering ABS, ride modes (Dynamic, Road, and Rain), full LED lighting, a USB-C charging port, and a 12-volt outlet.
The R 12 nineT has a minimalist TFT instrument panel.
BMW R 12 nineT | Test Ride
The assemblage of nineTs sitting in front of our Spanish hotel looked marvelous, especially with the aluminum tail humps blending with the fuel tank’s bare aluminum sides. The bikes look both classy and classic.
The controls might appear befuddling, but BMW’s system is fairly easy to defuddle.
With a 31.3-inch seat height, the nineT is fairly easy to straddle and hold its 485-lb curb weight upright. Its 4.2-gallon tank is 1.2 inches shorter and is also narrower between the knees than it was previously to position the rider closer to the handlebar. The riding position is sporty but not punishing, a good compromise for a cafe racer such as this. The digital instrument panel fitted to our bikes is tiny but usable.
The R 12 nineT presents a shape unique in motorcycling. The stacked pair of mufflers with conical end caps is a new feature for the 2024 model.
Firing up the engine is accompanied by the customary opposed-Twin twinge that rocks the bike to the right, with the new exhaust system emitting the traditional boxer blat. It’s not mellifluous but sounds somewhat authoritative.
The linear powerband avails its rider with good grunt regardless of engine speed, and it really comes alive in the midrange. Max torque of 85 lb-ft hits at 6,500 rpm, and its 107 hp peak arrives at 7,000 revs with another 1,500 rpm of rev-ability before hitting the redline at 8,500 rpm. Owners will want to burn premium-grade fuel, as I heard hints of preignition pinging when applying large throttle inputs in taller gears.
A traditional-looking round headlight adds retro charm but holds a modern LED lamp with integrated LED running lights.
The nineT continues to use a single-plate dry clutch, which can be overwhelmed if a rider slips it excessively, and it demands a fairly heavy pull despite its hydraulic actuation. Gearbox action feels vintage compared to most modern transmissions, requiring considerable lever travel to engage the next gear. BMW’s Shift Assist Pro is available for the first time on a nineT, but it swaps gears with lurches unbecoming of a premium roadster like this. For smoothest gearchanges, I did them manually.
A new fuel tank allows a rider to snuggle up closer to the handlebar for improved front-end feedback.
A wide handlebar supplies decent leverage to overcome a lazy 27.7-degree rake angle with 4.4 inches of trail and a long 59.5-inch wheelbase. As sporty as the nineT is, it’s not exceptionally agile, which made me wonder if the standard steering damper is necessary. Adding input through your feet is somewhat thwarted by slippery footpegs.
Suspension action from the fully adjustable 45mm inverted fork is excellent. The rear damper – also with 4.7 inches of travel – was reangled to perform better without a linkage and uses travel-dependent damping. The shaft-drive arrangement adds weight compared to a chain, which makes the rear end less responsive when absorbing bumps. A hydraulic preload adjuster knob is conveniently located near the rider’s right knee, while the adjustable rebound damping screw is on the shock.
Whether hunting for apexes or cappuccinos, the R 12 nineT will get you there in style.
When riding a debonair bike like the nineT, a rider wants to look smooth, but throttle reapplication from a closed throttle can be abrupt, and I experienced an excessive amount of engine braking during deceleration. On the plus side, the radially mounted 4-piston monoblock calipers and twin 310mm floating rotors do a fine job of shedding the levels of speed the nineT is capable of achieving.
BMW R 12 nineT | Back to the Barn
I felt conflicted about the R 12 nineT while riding it back to the hotel. It’s a special machine, no doubt, and it harks back to classic motorcycle designs with its minimalist and elegant lines. I sincerely appreciate its form factor and could imagine it sparkling in my personal garage.
The R 12 nineT glowing at golden hour, presenting an alluring profile for Beemerphiles.
On the other hand, its powertrain feels anachronistic, which came into sharp relief by riding the scintillating M 1000 XR on the same day. The nineT feels decidedly old-school, and it makes this reviewer want to paint it with the same brush as when reviewing older Moto Guzzis, highlighting the bike’s character-rich personality and overlooking its flaws.
The R 12 nineT stands out as a beautifully crafted motorcycle that pays homage to BMW’s rich heritage while incorporating modern technology. With its blend of classic aesthetics and advanced features, the nineT offers both character and capability. It won’t be the most cost-effective bike in your garage, but it might be your favorite.
Under the seat is a redesigned airbox that leads to the cylinders via a channel covered by drilled aluminum shields. This bike has the optional wire-spoke wheels fitted.
BMW Motorrad unveiled the BMW R20 concept bike at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este show in Italy. The R20 features a classic roadster design paired with sophisticated components and a minimalist style, showcasing the air/oil-cooled Big Boxer engine as its centerpiece.
The BMW R20 is an eye-catching motorcycle, with a “hotter than pink” pop of color on the aluminum tank. The bike has been designed to highlight the 2,000cc boxer engine, with its massive cylinders jutting out horizontally, and new components – cylinder head covers, belt cover, and oil cooler – were developed for this concept.
The bike’s double-loop main frame is made of chromoly steel tubes, and the R20 features a new dual-sided variant of BMW’s Paralever system. In this new variant, the swingarm is made of chromoly steel, and the strut is aluminum. The exposed driveshaft adopted from the R 18 has been shortened, and the bike rides on 17-inch wheels, with a spoked wheel up front and a black disc wheel in the rear.
Suspension components are provided by Öhlins, the rake is 27.5 degrees, and the wheelbase is 61 inches. Radial-mounted ISR brakes feature a pair of 6-piston front calipers and a single 4-piston rear caliper.
Adding to the R20’s sophisticated look, the taillight is integrated into the single seat upholstered with quilted black Alcantara and fine-grain leather, and the rear has a compact, uncluttered appearance. The LED headlight is surrounded by an aluminum ring with integrated daytime running light, with the main headlight appearing the float within the ring.
“The R20 concept is a bold interpretation of the BMW Motorrad DNA,” says Alexander Buckan, head of design for BMW Motorrad. “It combines modern technical elements with a classic roadster design. Its oversized proportions and minimalistic aesthetic make it an unmistakable character.”
Find more information about the R20 and other BMW models at the BMW Motorrad website.
Motorcycles equipped with quickshifters, which allow upshifts and downshifts without using the clutch, have become commonplace in the last few years. The BMW Motorrad Shift Assistant Pro is an optional quickshifter on many BMW models, including the new R 1300 GS, the M 1000 XR, and many others. Even with a quickshifter, riders must use the clutch to pull away from a stop. BMW’s new Automated Shift Assistant eliminates the need to use the clutch at all, and it will be an option on R-series models powered by boxer Twin engines. Read the full press release below.
With the new Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), BMW Motorrad presents an innovative technical solution that makes riding simpler and more comfortable. True to the motto “Simplify your ride,” the riding experience is enhanced by automation of the clutch and gear shifting process, without sacrificing the emotionally important dynamics of shifting.
The Automated Shift Assistant features a clever functional design in which two electromechanical actuators automate the clutch and gearshift of the six-speed transmission, which is the main difference to a conventional shift assistant. There is no need for a hand lever to operate the clutch manually. Starting, stopping, and maneuvering are all made easy with the Automated Shift Assistant.
BMW Automated Shift Assistant
Riding with the Automated Shift Assistant becomes more enjoyable thanks to fast, precise, rev- and load-adapted gear changes. The rider’s workload is reduced, which makes riding more enjoyable. In addition, the Automated Shift Assistant creates a more direct connection with the powerful boxer engine, as the precise clutch actuation makes it easier to control the riding experience via the throttle and gearshift lever.
In ‘M’ shift mode, gear changes can still be made by foot control, allowing the rider to decide when to change gears.
In ‘D’ shift mode, the Automatic Shift Assistant really comes into its own. Shift points are automatically selected by the engine control unit. In both “M” and “D” modes, the rider benefits from smooth and perfectly executed gear changes, resulting in efficient motorcycle acceleration and increased riding stability.
BMW Automated Shift Assistant
When shifting up, for example, the possible jolt associated with a classic manual transmission with a manual clutch is largely eliminated, as is the risk of helmet-to-helmet contact between rider and passenger.
Downshifts are also designed to be as smooth as possible, minimizing chassis disturbances. Specific characteristics of the automated shift function are assigned to the different riding modes to ensure perfect shift behavior in each riding situation. In combination with Active Cruise Control or front collision warning, the networking of functions brings the future of motorcycling to life.
Automated Shift Assistant: Automated clutch and gear shifting for a new riding experience.
In difficult riding situations, using the clutch and throttle takes a lot of concentration. If you are travelling with luggage and perhaps a passenger, using the clutch and gearshift takes up resources. The rider remains in control and has more freedom in every riding situation with the Automated Shift Assistant. Riding becomes a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
BMW Automated Shift Assistant
The torquey boxer engine enables almost effortless starts on uphill gradients, for example, thanks to automated clutch operation, which also pays dividends in terms of better vehicle control off-road or on difficult surfaces.
Riding pleasure takes on a whole new meaning when you choose the automated D mode. Optimally selected gear changes create a new riding sensation. The right gear is automatically selected according to the rider’s individual riding needs, resulting in a harmonious and extremely smooth driving experience.
Automated Shift Assistant: Electromechanical clutch and gearshift actuators combined with sophisticated electronic controls.
The Automated Shift Assistant is the logical and technical evolution of the BMW Motorrad Shift Assistant Pro. Two electronically controlled electromechanical actuators operate the clutch and gearshift, enabling easy starting and automated gear changes. The rider’s shift request is transmitted to the control unit via a gearshift lever sensor, which is actuated by the conventional foot-operated gearshift lever. Additional sensors determine the revs of the transmission input shaft and the clutch position. These values are transmitted to the
TCU (Transmission Control Unit), which is closely linked to the engine control unit, for control of the clutch and shift actuation.
The clutch is operated by an electro-mechanical actuator combined with a hydraulic system with a direct hydraulic connection between the clutch master and slave cylinders. The actuator regulates the required clutch slip, engages the clutch when changing gear and disengages it when stopping.
In manual shift mode “M”, the rider can move the gearshift lever in the desired direction in the usual way. If the revs in the desired target gear are within the maximum or minimum rev range, the shift is made directly. If the engine revs fall below a gear- dependent minimum speed, downshifts are performed automatically in manual mode. This prevents the engine from stalling.
In shift mode “D” the gears are changed automatically depending on the riding mode, engine revs, throttle position and lean angle parameters. Gears are shifted according to the riding situation and dynamic requirements.
The benefits of the Automatic Shift Assistant (ASA):
Completely eliminates the need for the rider to operate the clutch.
Dynamic and comfortable gear changes for more riding pleasure.
Choice of manual or automatic gear shifting.
Automatically adapts gear shifts to the rider’s dynamic preferences in D mode.
Eliminates the possibility of engine stalling during gear shifts.
After a successful inaugural BMW Motorrad Days Americas last year, the event will return to Alabama for the 2024 Barber Vintage Festival on October 11-13.
The 2023 event, also held during Barber Vintage Festival, celebrated the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad. BMW motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country traveled to Barber Motorsports Park to enjoy the festivities, demo ride BMW motorcycles, and connect with other BMW riders.
“Last year’s celebration of the BMW Motorrad Days Americas at the Barber Vintage Festival was so much fun, there is no way we could not be back,” said Luciana Francisco, head of marketing and product for BMW Motorrad USA. “There is no better community than the global motorcycling community, and we could not ask for a better host than the Barber Vintage Festival. Seeing so many people, from so many different backgrounds, together, celebrating our passion for riding, is truly a special experience.”
The BMW Motorrad Days Americas will include the BMW Motorrad Fan Zone with new and vintage motorcycles, a kid zone, live music, a biergarten, and a great view of vintage racing on the Barber circuit. There will also be on- and off-road demo rides of the newest BMW models, like the R 1300 GS, F 900 GS, R 12, and CE 02.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to announce the return of BMW Motorrad Days to the Barber Vintage Festival, said George Dennis, President of ZOOM Motorsports. “It’s a celebration of passion, performance, and the vibrant community that fuels our love for two-wheel adventures.”
Tickets for the Barber Vintage Festival will go on sale on May 21, and those who purchase event passes through BMW Motorad USA will access ticket discounts.
The BMW M 1000 XR blends elite levels of sportbike performance with a relatively comfortable riding position suitable for sport-touring duties.
BMW’s lineup of streetbikes is amazingly diverse, from single-cylinder roadsters all the way up to the supersized R 18 series, so there’s a Beemer for almost anyone. BMW’s all-conquering GS series attracts most of the headlines, but there’s another gem often hidden in the shadows.
BMW has packed 201 hp into this sub-500-lb package.
The S 1000 XR was one of the first sporty adventure-tourers on the market, eschewing off-road capability for street performance but with a longer-travel suspension than typical sportbikes. Introduced in 2015, the partially faired XR was based on the S 1000 R roadster using the mighty 999cc inline-Four from the S 1000 RR superbike.
The addition of winglets to the fairing provides reassuring downforce at high velocities.
BMW described the XR as an “Adventure Sport Bike,” while we see it as a high-performance sport-touring bike. Whatever term you prefer, the XR has been an outrageously fast way to carve up interstate maps with squiggly lines.
Monoblock brake calipers from Nissin provide impeccable braking feedback and power. Lightweight carbon fiber is used throughout the M 1000 XR when equipped with the M Competition package, including its fenders and wheels.
But when it comes to performance, there’s always a slice of the market that desires the utmost in speed, which is where this new M 1000 XR comes in. Boasting a seriously stout 201 hp, the M version of the XR takes the adventure sportbike theme to a stratospheric level.
A 6.5-inch TFT instrument panel supplies a variety of displays, including this Race view that shows traction control interventions and real-time lean angles.
“It’s like a racebike with benefits of a crossover,” BMW proclaimed at the M 1000 XR’s recent launch in Spain. Motorrad reps say it’s the lightest and most powerful crossover bike on the market, intended to rule the roost of bikes designed for long-distance high-performance.
Instruments are easily navigated by BMW’s Multi-Controller wheel next to the handgrip. Cruise control is standard equipment.
The S 1000 XR was also updated for 2024, gaining 5 hp to 170 ponies and now retailing for $18,190. But our focus was on the M version, the third M model from BMW Motorrad following the M 1000 RR superbike and the M 1000 R roadster. The S 1000 XR has a curb weight of 500 lb, 8 lb more than the M-XR.
The XR has this handy storage compartment built into its fuel tank, perfect for carrying the keyless-ignition fob and other small items while out on a ride.
Design | BMW M 1000 XR
The XR still has a vestigial beak at its nose like ADVs do, but that’s as close to an adventure bike as the XR gets. Instead of a big schnoz masquerading as a front fender, the M 1000 XR has MotoGP-like winglets along the sides of its fairing.
BMW says the wings generate 41 lb of downforce at the M-XR’s 171-mph top speed, dropping to 25 lb at 137 mph. Probably a negligible amount at highway speeds, but the wings could be helpful at trackdays, which are part of the XR’s design brief.
A trick set of billet aluminum foot controls is part of the M Competition package, which are adjustable for angles and toe lengths.
The bike’s twin-beam aluminum frame remains unchanged, but the powerplant bolted to it has undergone serious hot-rodding based on the M 1000 RR’s mill. BMW’s ShiftCam technology accomplishes the magical feat of maintaining optimal power at lower engine speeds while significantly boosting top-end output.
Below 9,000 rpm, the motor is directed by camshaft lobes optimized for operating at lower revs. At higher revs, two electromechanical actuators switch the intake valves over to a hotter cam lobe (more lift and different timing) in just 10 milliseconds. The result is favorable torque in low- and medium-speed ranges along with significant gains in peak power.
The M 1000 XR is the fastest comfy sportbike on the market.
Further aiding engine output are a set of variable-length intake ducts stolen from the M 1000 RR and M 1000 R, which switch to shorter ducts above 11,000 rpm. The redline takes a leap from the S 1000 XR’s 12,000 rpm to 14,600 rpm, a seriously high engine speed that is aided by lightweight titanium valves.
Of course, there is no such thing as an inexpensive 200-hp motorcycle. The M 1000 XR has a base price of $24,295, but it doesn’t have to stop there. Preface: Carbon-fiber wheels for a Ferrari 296GTB are a $33,748 option.
The M Competition colorway is a sure sign that this isn’t a tame adventure-tourer.
Ordering the M Competition package amps up the bike’s racy nature with a slathering of carbon-fiber trim, from a carbon ignition lock cover and cockpit trim to fenders, bodywork, and even a chain guard. The most expensive bits are the M Carbon wheels, which trim unsprung and inertial mass from the place where it makes the most difference on a motorcycle.
If you love carbon fiber (or buy Ferraris), the package’s $5,495 price might seem reasonable, and it also includes special billet footpegs, axle protectors, and a lap-timing GPS trigger. Curb weight gets shaved from 492 lb to 485.
The exhaust system ends in a titanium Akrapovic muffler, but most of the silencing is accomplished in chambers below the engine.
Comfortably Fast | BMW M 1000 XR
In front of our hotel in Spain was a lineup of M 1000 XRs in M Competition livery, a sinister black base peppered with blue and black accents. The overall look is visually arresting, even if it falls short of achieving pure aesthetic beauty.
Throwing over a leg, I was greeted by a relaxed riding position considering this bike’s performance potential. Despite its race-bred DNA, the M 1000 XR doesn’t compromise on rider comfort. The handlebar is within easy reach, and the M-branded seat feels plush. Front and center is a clearly readable 6.5-inch TFT display that can be connected to smartphones. The system’s complex capabilities are navigated by BMW’s innovative Multi-Controller wheel inboard of the left handgrip.
Firing up the XR, ears are greeted with a snarling exhaust note emitted by the tidy titanium Akrapovic muffler with a carbon cap. Most of the muffling takes place in a convoluted system of pipework placed under the engine. A quick blip of the throttle immediately sends revs soaring, a portent of fun times to follow.
Clutch pull is modest, and it barely needs to be bothered with thanks to a highly effective quickshifter that swaps cogs seamlessly. Despite the XR’s high-strung potential, it does a fine job of wading through city streets on the way out of town. Power is omnipresent no matter the engine speed, and the bike is easy to manage in tight spaces.
The M 1000 XR proved to be delightful when unwinding twisty roads, with a wonderful blend of agility and composure. And when the roads open up, 200 ponies will make other traffic disappear in its mirrors.
Next up was a highway stint that highlighted the XR’s comfort. The two-position windscreen is adjustable on the fly, and there’s a generous amount of space between the seat and the bars. The seat is fairly tall at 33.5 inches, which allows adequate legroom despite the high-set footpegs that enable dizzying lean angles without touching down. The M Competition foot controls also allow adjustments to fine-tune their fit for different riders.
In this environment, the “Road” ride mode delivers smooth throttle responses and a smooth ride from the semi-active suspension that has 5.4 inches of travel at both ends. Engine vibration is present but isn’t aggravating. Cruise control is standard equipment, and it operates flawlessly and can be set in 1-mph increments.
Ultimate Streetbike Performance | BMW M 1000 XR
After arriving in a rural area, the hilly, twisty roads ahead called for a different ride mode. I toggled to Dynamic, which sharpens the throttle responses and firms up suspension damping. Other modes available are Rain, Race, and three levels of Race Pro. I sampled the Race mode but eventually switched back to Dynamic, which suited me perfectly.
It was finally time to experience the power on tap from the M 1000 XR. Holy crap, this thing is fast! BMW says it can accelerate to 124 mph in just 7.4 seconds – that’s 1.3 seconds quicker than the S 1000 XR, partly due to the M’s shorter gearing. And if you’re brave enough to keep the throttle twisted past that speed, the acceleration forces barely diminish.
Fully up to the task of shedding big speeds are the M-XR’s brakes. I was initially disappointed to not see Brembo’s Stylema calipers, which are often found on premium bikes and are the best clampers I’ve tested. However, the XR’s monoblock Nissin calipers developed with BMW feel just as good as the vaunted Stylemas, with a firm lever and precise feedback. Very impressive!
The Dynamic Damping Control system transforms the suspension from touring-plush to sportbike-firm at the touch of a button. It takes cues from a 6-axis IMU to keep the bike settled regardless of how aggressively it’s ridden.
A high and wide handlebar and an adjustable windscreen (seen here in its lower position) provide more comfort than expected for a machine with this much performance.
And the M 1000 XR thrives when ridden aggressively. Its relatively high and wide handlebar encourages quick steering transitions, which are certainly aided by the ultra-lightweight carbon wheels. Its agility is exceptional, and once levered over, the sportbike-derived chassis remains steadfast while the suspension’s DDC continually adjusts and adapts to every situation.
Indelible | BMW M 1000 XR
On the way back to the hotel, I reflected on a particular section of our ride. We were untangling a seemingly endless series of twists and turns interjected with occasional straight sections that enabled room to rev out the engine and seamlessly bang a few shifts. I was having so much fun that I was literally grinning and giggling in my helmet.
The M 1000 XR’s extreme performance and unflappable composure made me think I was on one of the best bikes in the world for twisty roads. Its glorious motor provides acceleration that will take your breath away, and you’d think it was terrific even if you never revved it above 9,000 rpm. The M-XR has agility that will shame many sportbikes, and it has race-level braking power backed by cornering ABS.
And when it’s time to leave the canyons, the M-XR transforms into a relatively comfy touring bike. Riders are coddled with decent wind protection, a plush suspension, and amenities like heated grips and cruise control.
Whether unraveling twisty mountain roads or devouring miles on the open highway, the M 1000 XR offers an unrivaled combination of performance, luxury, technological sophistication, and immaculate attention to detail. Now I just gotta remember where I stashed that $30K wad I was setting aside for something special…
Pricing for the M 1000 XR starts at $24,990, but the desirable M Competition package ups the MSRP to $30,485.
The updated 2024 BMW F 900 GS adventure bike seeks to reinvigorate BMW’s middleweight platform. Upgraded from the F 850 now with a larger 895cc parallel-Twin that delivers 105 hp, a ready-to-ride low weight of 483 lb, a lower and more svelte profile, and upgraded suspension, the 2024 BMW F 900 GS just might be the best parallel-Twin adventure bike ever offered from the German company.
To see how the 2024 BMW F 900 GS performs, we travel to Málaga, Spain, for a full day of on-road and off-road riding. Watch the video below to see the F 900 GS in action, and read our full review here.
The BMW F 900 GS has received major upgrades for 2024, including a significant weight loss and a punchier engine. Photos courtesy BMW.
The adventure-bike market is the hottest segment in motorcycling, with new models being introduced every year. The middleweight ADV category has been dominated by Yamaha’s Ténéré 700 and KTM’s various 790/890 Adventure models, but new or updated models from Aprilia (Tuareg 660), Honda (XL750 Transalp), Suzuki (V-Strom 800), and Triumph (Tiger 900) are enticing riders to reevaluate their options.
Meanwhile, BMW has been selling mid-weight ADVs for almost two decades. The F 800 GS was introduced in 2009 but was often overshadowed by its boxer-powered bigger brothers, culminating in the recent glowingly reviewed R 1300 GS.
For 2024, BMW expects the new F 900 GS to draw a brighter light to its reinvigorated middleweight platform. After testing it on roads and on dirt, we can safely say this is the best parallel-Twin adventure bike ever offered from the German company.
The Brembo 2-piston caliper front brakes are merely adequate relative to its competition in the middleweight ADV class.
What’s New?
Quite a lot, actually. The F 850’s motor has been punched out to 895cc and now delivers 105 hp, up 10 ponies from the older mill. The former cast pistons have been cast aside for forged pistons that are 2mm larger than before.
Additionally, 31 lb of weight has been shaved off for this new iteration, now scaling in at 483 lb with its 3.8-gallon tank full. The fuel cell swaps steel for plastic to pare down about 10 lb, and a new Akrapovič muffler trims 3.7 lb. A lower tailsection trims another 5 lb, while the trellis steel frame remains unchanged.
BMW offers several seating options for the GS.
The F 900 GS also benefits from a lower and more svelte profile that eliminates much of the bulkiness of its F 850 predecessor. The bike not only looks smaller, its design language looks fresh and contemporary, aided by full LED lighting and rear turnsignals that serve double duty as brake lights.
The 6.5-inch TFT panel is a literal bright spot on the new F 900 GS.
The F 900 GS is well-equipped in its base form, with a starting price of $13,495. Standard equipment includes a six-axis IMU and two riding modes (Rain and Road), plus ABS Pro and Dynamic Traction Control. A vibrant 6.5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity is part of the package, as are hand guards, heated grips, an adjustable aluminum shift lever, and self-canceling turnsignals.
The 900’s suspension has been upgraded, now with a fully adjustable 43mm Showa fork holding a 21-inch front wheel. The rear damper includes adjustable preload and rebound damping to control bumps acting on a slightly lighter aluminum swingarm. Suspension travel is a generous 9.1 inches in front and 8.5 at the rear, resulting in a 34.3-inch seat height. An accessory low seat brings height down to 32.9 inches.
The GS’s 43mm inverted fork has full adjustability: preload, as well as compression and rebound damping.
BMW offers a similar but lower-spec (and more street-oriented) F 800 GS for only $10,495, with its 895cc motor downgraded to 87 hp, but it wasn’t available for testing. Also not tested was the Adventure version of the F 900 GS, which includes a 6.1-gallon fuel tank, Dynamic ESA, a luggage rack, and an aluminum bash plate. It has a starting price of $14,890.
Rebound damping can be adjusted by the gold knob ahead of the shock’s remote reservoir. Preload is adjusted hydraulically via a knurled handle on the other side of the bike.
Options Temptations
As is typical for BMW, there are a plethora of options for the F 900 GS. Ride Modes Pro supplies access to Dynamic, Enduro, and Enduro Pro rides modes, as well as Engine Drag Torque Control, which varies the amount of engine braking.
Then there’s the Premium Package that includes Ride Modes Pro, along with keyless ignition, an up/down quickshifter, tire-pressure monitoring, cruise control, and the long-lasting M Endurance Chain. It costs an extra $1,750.
The biggest improvement of BMW’s GS is found in its parallel-Twin powerplant that features a 10-hp boost along with improved torque. It includes BMW’s Active Knock Control that allows use of lower-grade fuels.
Riders who enjoy traipsing on dirt roads will be interested in the $1,495 Enduro Pro package, which includes Ride Modes Pro, fully adjustable suspension, the M Endurance chain, and a taller handlebar that is more comfortable for stand-up riding.
Other optional equipment includes protective bars, windscreens of various sizes, higher or lower seats, Intelligent Emergency Call, and a full complement of luggage options.
The windscreen seen on GS Trophy colorways is the GS’s standard-size screen, but the ones coming to the U.S. won’t have the smoked finish seen on these European-market bikes.
GS en España
BMW invited us to Málaga, Spain, to sample the F 900 GS, and in a coincidental twist, we stayed at the same hotel as during Triumph’s Tiger 900 launch just two months prior! It was illuminating to test these 900cc ADVs in the same area of southeastern Spain.
We first straddled Sao Paulo Yellow versions of the F 900 GS for a morning ride on some of Spain’s countless twisty roads. This “Passion” style colorway adds $275 to the price of the base GS, which has a black colorway. Our bikes had other options that raised their MSRP to $16,215.
The F 900’s parallel-Twin motor emits a rumbly note through its new Akrapovič muffler. Its crankshaft journals are offset by 90 degrees to create a 270/450-degree firing interval that sounds a lot like a 90-degree V-Twin. A pair of counterbalancers (one in front of and one behind the crankshaft) minimize objectionable vibrations.
The F 900 GS is fully capable of traversing unpaved trails. Hand guards are standard equipment, as are heated grips and adjustable hand levers.
Responses from this invigorated mill are much punchier than before. It pulls cleanly from as low as 2,000 rpm and builds to a meaty midrange that thrusts the Beemer forward with satisfying alacrity, aided by lower final-drive gearing. Torque swells in the 6,000-rpm range to its 68.6 lb-ft peak at 6,750 rpm then yanks harder on the way to its 105-hp zenith at 8,500 rpm.
For comparison, Triumph’s upgraded 888cc three-cylinder motor in the Tiger 900 cranks out 106.5 hp, while the output of KTM’s respected 890 parallel-Twin produces 103.6 ponies. It’s remarkable how closely the engines of these middleweight ADVs match up.
Dirt roads were tamed by the Metzeler Karoo 4 tires fitted for our ride. The rear sprocket now has 47 teeth instead of 44, lowering the overall final-drive ratio.
My 30-inch inseam was a little intimidated by the relatively tall 34.3-inch seat height, but it wasn’t a problem after my weight was aboard and the suspension compressed. The bike proved to be adept at navigating city streets on the way to mountain roads, with a light clutch pull and the assistance of the quickshifter fitted to our bikes.
The cockpit of the GS is pleasing to the eye, with an attractive 6.5-inch color TFT display front and center. It includes smartphone connectivity and can easily be navigated with BMW’s innovative Multicontroller wheel on the left grip. A 12-volt socket and a USB port ensure your devices will be charged while out on the road.
The F 900 GS proved to be very competent when bounding through the brush.
Riding on a highway section revealed a foible in the GS. Unlike the Tiger’s, the BMW’s windscreen isn’t adjustable. The accessory screen, which is 2 inches taller than stock, fitted to our test bikes induced buffeting on my helmet at higher speeds, and the lack of adjustability forced me to endure it. Any bike intended for travel should have a simple system for on-the-fly windscreen adjustments.
The GS proved to be remarkably adroit on the twisty sections of our ride. Turn-in response isn’t quite as brisk as on the Tiger due to the GS’s more relaxed steering geometry, with a 28-degree rake and 4.7 inches of trail, but the GS’s weight loss and its wide handlebar helps it carve corners adeptly. The 21-inch front tire (Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41) slightly diminishes sporty front-end feedback, as is always the case, but not enough to inhibit acute lean angles. For what it’s worth, I was able to drag footpegs on the Tiger Rally Pro, but I didn’t on the BMW.
Cooperative throttle response allows riders to dial in the precise amount of wheelspin desired.
The long-travel suspension of the GS proved to be plush over various road surfaces, but several riders noted the rebound damping of the shock felt too loose, with the rear bouncing up excessively after hitting bumps. At a coffee stop, we all dialled in additional rebound damping on the shock, and the revised settings offered much better control. The shock’s spring preload is adjustable, but its compression-damping circuit is not.
The fully adjustable inverted fork performed well, but less impressive are the GS’s brakes. Up front are Brembo calipers, but they’re low-spec 2-piston units rather than 4-piston clampers that are typically employed on bikes in this price range. They offer plenty enough power to adequately slow the bike, sure, but they’re not up to the high standards of the class. Cornering ABS is a welcome safety feature that is included as standard equipment.
A revised handlebar arrangement places riders in a more comfortable posture while standing.
There were several opportunities on our ride to twist the throttle wide open and stretch speed limits. The newfound punchiness of the motor again impressed the seat of my pants, pulling hard enough to make me feel that a 1,200-plus-cc engine might be overkill for an ADV. Clutchless upshifts were clicked off smoothly, but snicking into lower gears without using the clutch was harsher than with the Tiger’s faultless transmission.
We were having so much fun unwinding Spain’s sinuous backroads on the GS that we didn’t want to bother stopping for lunch.
The F 900 GS feels very manageable when riding off-road.
Dirty Work
After some delicious tapas, we climbed aboard bikes in the GS Trophy colorway with BMW’s red and blue colors atop a white base coat, sure to be the likely choice for Beemerphiles. These bikes were fitted with knobbier Metzeler Karoo 4 tires better suited for the off-roading adventures in front of us. BMW’s cross-spoke wheels allow tubeless tires.
Like a well-engineered ADV should, the F 900 GS seems to shed weight when ridden off-road. Simply point it in the right direction and keep the throttle open, and it tractors up nearly any obstacle. While most of our off-roading was on non-technical terrain, we came across a few technical sections with rocks and hills that gave the GS a good test. Its suspension performed without complaint from the bike or its rider, and its punched-out motor again proved its worthiness in ADV situations, able to be lugged low in its powerband where optimum traction is delivered.
The taller accessory windscreen fitted to the bikes on our street ride induced buffeting. We wish the bike included a windscreen adjustment of some form.
I spent the entire afternoon with the bike in its Enduro Pro mode, which disables ABS at the rear tire and loosens the limits of traction control. Eventually, I switched off traction control completely, as I preferred my right hand to be fully in charge of managing traction.
The brakes that felt underwhelming on the street were nearly perfect in the dirt. They weren’t grabby or overly sensitive like some high-powered braking systems, shedding speed in precise and easy to control amounts. However, I felt the front ABS kick in on a rocky, technical downhill section, an unnerving situation. A ride mode with the name “Pro” in it should have looser parameters for ABS intervention.
Although intended to handle unpaved roads, BMW’s new GS also makes a capable sport-tourer.
On the way back into town, I was pleased that the standard-height windscreen eliminated the buffeting condition I felt at higher speeds with the taller screen. The narrow seat, however, was less pleasing, and I’d consider sourcing a different saddle if I was piling on hundreds of miles. On the plus side, a generous amount of steering lock makes the GS easy to maneuver in tight spaces, whether it’s dodging trees in a forest or Teslas in a crowded parking lot.
Best GS Yet?
Well, that would depend on what you want from a GS. The new R 1300 GS is magnificent and has a broader range of capabilities along with a more powerful engine. But after a short spin on a 1300 during a transit stage of our off-road ride, I preferred the 900’s relative agility and the way its rear tire grabbed for traction relative to the 1300’s shaft-drive arrangement.
We think the new GS looks much more attractive than the older one. The red subframe on the Sao Paulo Yellow colorway is a nice touch.
The F 900 GS faces stiff competition in the marketplace. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro is in some respects more appealing than the Beemer, with its engaging 3-cylinder engine, Brembo Stylema brakes, and adjustable windscreen. Combined with a larger fuel tank and a comfier stock seat, the Tiger is a worthy adversary.
But the BMW F 900 GS is appealing in its own right, flying the BMW flag high for aficionados of the brand. The Beemer is built in Germany, the land of technocrats and precision engineering, while the Tiger is produced in Thailand, for whatever that’s worth to ya.
For my money, on a per-dollar value, I believe the BMW F 900 GS is the best GS yet.
The new GS has a smaller and lower profile than the previous version. The new Akrapovič muffler looks sweet and is claimed to shave 3.7 lb.
Paul Yaffe’s BMW R 18 One Eight “C” is built on the BMW R 18 Transcontinental luxury touring cruiser.
Paul Yaffe of Bagger Nation has recently revealed his latest creation: the BMW R 18 One Eight “C” built on a BMW R 18 Transcontinental. This custom incorporates hot-rod appeal while remaining as authentically BMW as possible and joins Yaffe’s extensive list of customized bikes.
Yaffe is well-known to the custom motorcycle world. His bikes show up across the globe at various bike shows, rallies, and events, and he’s been awarded recognitions such as three “World’s Most Beautiful Motorcycle” awards from the Oakland Roadster Show and two “Builder of Year” and three “Trendsetter of the Year” awards from Easyriders Magazine. He was also inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame in 2015.
To get accustomed with the BMW R 18 Transcontinental, Yaffe rode more than 6,000 miles on one before getting started with the project. The BMW R 18 Transcontinental was introduced for 2022 as a luxury touring version of the company’s R 18 cruiser platform. It features the same 1,802cc “Big Boxer” opposed Twin as other R 18 iterations. The Transcontinental comes with a handlebar-mounted fairing, a passenger seat, locking hard saddlebags, and a top trunk with integrated passenger backrest – everything needed for racking up miles on cross-country trips.
Yaffe’s goal with this custom was to create a big-wheel bagger that retained as many original BMW parts as possible. The eye-catching 26 x 5.5-inch front wheel was commissioned and cut from solid aluminum, and the 180mm front tire is handmade. To accommodate the large front wheel, the frame was stretched and raked.
The R 18’s batwing-style fairing was cut into several pieces and restructured, and the steel front fender was made from scratch. The bike also features a chin spoiler that conceals the radiator and closes the gap between the fairing and the fuel tank. Also included is a set of Yaffe Monkey Bars.
In keeping with Yaffe’s goal to keep as many BMW components on the bike as possible, his team retained the saddlebag lids, latches, and speakers but included a new set of “skins” that create a stretched look. The team also extended the original rear fender by crafting a second R 18 fender.
Yaffe kept the original R 18 taillights and fitted them into handmade filler panels. He also included a spot for a license plate in the fender and stretched the side covers to cover more area and flow toward the saddlebags.
The R 18 One Eight “C” features air suspension with a Yaffe-designed air tank and distribution system. A frame under the saddlebags accommodates components of the air suspension. The team’s goal with the side pipes was to “preserve the distinct BMW feel” of the build. They kept the classic Boxer head pipes, removed the catalytic converters from the head pipes, and installed a perforated high-flow baffle system. They also included a three-step muffler system and a wide-open megaphone for a classic hot-rod sound.
The focus on the bike’s cosmetics was centered on elegance and simplicity. “We went to work perfecting all the fabricated body panels and smoothing everything to a glass-like finish,” said the Bagger Nation team. Painter Hector Martinez applied the gloss black paint for a timeless look, and Guys Upholstery created the oxblood red saddle and the dash console. Martinez matched the front calipers’ color to the saddle.
The BMW R 18 One Eight “C” will debut at the Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy, the weekend of January 19-21, 2024.
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