(Málaga, Spain) If BMW has a calling card in the world of motorcycling, it is its big GS. Since the first R80G/S in the early 1980s, the model, which is literally the origin of the popular adventure class, has evolved many times, sometimes even profoundly. But for 2024, the Munich brand is betting big and starting from scratch by presenting a completely redesigned machine.
By definition, the term sacred monster is rarely deserved, but it definitely applies in the case of BMW’s big R GS. That said, over the years, through persistence, the competition has ended up getting closer. At the same time, the R 1250 GS, the most recent version of the German, with the addition of new equipment, had gained weight and was starting to drag its feet, especially on trails. BMW could have stuck to a diet and an overhaul, but instead the automaker chose to start from scratch and completely reinvent its flagship model. A risky decision with high stakes, the result of which is the all-new 2024 R 1300 GS.
Those familiar with the GS will instantly notice a style very distinct from that of the previous version which had evolved in a predictable manner for a very long time. The line, more tapered and taut, is the result of numerous stylistic choices which must be judged in person rather than in photos, where the R 1300 GS appears smaller than it actually is. Then, from the flowing steel frame to the now fully liquid-cooled 1300 cc Boxer engine to the BMW-exclusive Paralever and Telelever suspensions, absolutely everything has been reinvented compared to the generation ending its journey in 2023.
Motorcycles are often criticized for offering very little ergonomic flexibility. The 2024 R 1300 GS finally takes this problem seriously by offering a remarkable number of options to its rider. If high or low saddles, adjustable handlebar angle or even adjustable footrests are relatively common features in terms of adjustments, the suspensions which lower electrically by 30 mm (optional), provide flexibility of a level never seen before. Suddenly, even short riders can place their feet flat when stopping, a huge advantage over a heavyweight adventurer that’s usually uncomfortably tall. In short, adults and children alike can now settle in at ease.
Among the technical characteristics that have made BMW’s big GS so unique for more than four decades, the Boxer twin-cylinder that drives it plays a preponderant role. However, on the 2024 version of the model, BMW has completely redesigned this very particular engine. Shorter, lighter by several kilos and now entirely liquid-cooled, it stands out from its predecessor with a power output of 145 hp, a figure that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago for an engine of this type. Powerful from the first laps and climbing with enthusiasm until its red zone, it offers performance that even demanding drivers find particularly satisfying.
On the asphalt, it’s difficult to describe the serenity of the R 1300 GS’s handling when shod with road tires and equipped with the optional semi-active suspension. Absolutely composed and stable at normal pace, it exudes divine solidity and assurance in the long curves of the highways, regardless of the speed. In a more dynamic environment like a mountain pass punctuated by an infinity of turns of all kinds, the German adventurer magically transforms into a gifted sportswoman letting the best drivers push their skills as far as they dare. Pure candy. That said, if the tires installed favor trail riding, the compliments decrease.
Even if few owners risk taking their shiny GS into the woods, its trail capabilities remain important to them. They can rejoice, since the R 1300 GS delivers excellent performance off-road, at least when it is shod for the occasion. Above all, we note an ease of piloting considerably increased by the reduction in weight and by the less massive proportions of the new generation. With a skilled pilot at the controls, very few obstacles slow down the big GS. As for those less advanced, they see their level of confidence reach a new peak on the trail thanks to the possibility of lowering the suspensions and placing their feet firmly on the ground.
A few, yes. The base price is not unreasonable, but to experience the full potential of the product, several options are required, particularly in terms of suspension and electronic functions. The basic saddle is not bad, but it is not exceptional, which the model deserves as it is comfortable on long journeys. BMW will gladly sell you a softer one… If we appreciate the arrival of shortcut buttons, the menus for the various settings, functions and driving aids remain numerous. The 12 kg less is excellent news, but we would have liked more. Finally, the sound of the new engine is regrettably a little muffled.
Recreating an icon without making a mistake is not accomplished without a deep understanding of the elements that made the original version successful. The new R 1300 GS undoubtedly advances the idea of the big adventurer that is both magnificently comfortable when traveling and capable of tackling any obstacle on the trail. The balance between these two types of environments has always been the key characteristic of the German, and it is absolutely impossible not to admit that this balance is not only there on the new, but also that it is even more intelligent defined. It had gradually moved away from the title of best motorcycle in the world. This one turns the tide.
