BMW has introduced an all-new R1300 GS that is intended to improve on its predecessor in every way, with more power, modern styling and less weight. The 2024 BMW R1300 broke cover in Germany today, but also in front of a global audience via YouTube launch. Here’s what you need to know about the new bike:
All-new liquid-cooled engine
A new liquid-cooled design allowed BMW to shrink the engine’s size, and cut weight while increasing output to 145 hp at 7750 rpm and 110 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. These are both improvements on the ’23 1250 model, which made 136 hp and 105.5 lb-ft of torque. The engine is still a DOHC setup with four-valve Shiftcam heads. Compression is now 13.3:1; previously, it was 12:5:1. Stroke is decreased, while bore is increased.
The new GS cuts a bunch of weight, adds power, and comes in a smaller package that’s better-suited for off-roading. Photo: BMW
The shift to liquid cooling is not the only reason the engine is more compact and lighter. BMW also redesigned the shaft drive to cut weight, and shifted the six-speed gearbox to sit underneath the engine, centralizing weight.
As far as electro-wizardry, engine drag torque control comes standard for the new engine, letting riders adjust their engine braking feedback. Road, Rain, Enduro and Eco ride modes come standard (BMW says the mpg is roughly the same as the 1250, so somewhere in the mid-40s mpg, most likely). BMW will offer a selection of other ride modes as options. Remember that functions like ABS configuration are controlled through the ride modes, not just engine performance.
New chassis
In its presentation, BMW’s bigwigs said they wanted to counter the trend of adventure bikes getting endlessly bigger and more complicated. More than a few inmates had expressed similar sentiments here in the forum, so they should be glad to hear that the new R1300 GS isn’t just lighter (a 523 lb curb weight, down 26 pounds from the 2023 R1250 model). BMW’s designers also made sure to make the new model more compact overall, sizing the chassis down so it’s less bulky.
The GS loses the tubular steel frame of the past. Now it has a shell frame made of sheet metal; the subframe is die-cast aluminum. The base model comes with 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear, both cast rims. Buy one of the variant sub-models (Triple Black, GS Trophy and Option 719 Tramuntana) and you can opt for cross-spoked wheels, or the Enduro forged wheelset that cuts weight. Of course, as is standard with BMW’s big-bore bikes, you can also opt for a pre-packaged selection of accessories (these will vary by market; ask your dealer for more details). You can also buy the accessories by themselves, if you want factory-made wheels but you prefer aftermarket luggage, and so on.
The suspension is the usual Telelever and Paralever design, but now it has been significantly updated and bears the EVO badge. Pay more, and you can get a new Dynamic Suspension Adjustment system, which automatically adjusts stiffness to match riding conditions. A sporty off-road suspension and adjustable ride height system are both also available.
The windshield is manually-adjustable, but buyers can opt for an electrically-adjustable version at extra cost.
BMW also included new four-piston calipers for the front brakes. ABS Pro is standard (with the ability to switch off at the rear when you’re off-roading). The handlebars come with heated grips preinstalled, along with handguards with integrated turn signals.
The aluminum fuel tank has 19-liter capacity. It should be good for about 245 miles of range.
Although the base model comes with cast rims, buyers can opt for spoked wheels. Pre-farkled sub-models also have them as stock. Photo: BMW
Other electronics
All-round LED lights are standard, with a distinctive new X-shaped headlight. Cruise control is standard, and a tire pressure monitoring system, even a keyless ignition. The GS comes with a 6.5-inch TFT screen, which can connect to other devices by Bluetooth.
As with all recent BMWs, there is a massive amount of add-on electronica that’s available if you’re feeling spendy–a cornering headlight, heated seat, automated emergency calling and a lot more. Adaptive cruise control is also available, governed by a radar system.
Check out that new headlight. Definitely a different look for the German brand. Photo: BMW
US pricing
The base price is $18,895 MSRP in the US, rising as you accessorize or pick one of the three pre-farkled sub-models. We expect more details on availability in coming weeks, as BMW sorts out its current stop-sale order issues.
