I recently test rode a new BMW GS1250 adventure that i had borrowed from the brilliant BMW Bahnstormer dealership in Maidenhead. For me, the BMW GSA1250 is riding heaven, its literally perfect and a joy to ride. This new bike is the perfect evolutionary upgrade from my current BMW GS1200 TE Exclusive. Over the years, I’ve ridden many different bikes in many different locations, this is my journey as to why i like the BMW GS. I have also used a future version of the BMW GS in my new science fiction trilogy.
Lets dive in
History of the BMW GS Motorcycle.
The first motorcycles appeared in 1885 and for generations, the motorcycles is still one of the finest ways to explore the world. Its compact size allows you to explore treasures that are hidden away of the beaten track.
Forty years ago, BMW motorcycles launched their first GS model, the R80G/S. This motorbike was designed as a dual purpose bike that was perfect for both off-road and on-road riding. These first R80 G/S were produced in 1980 by BMW Motorrad in Berlin and these bikes soon became a firm favourite. BMW also produced a special rally version of the R80G/S, which later went on to win the Paris-Dakar rally in 1984. The R80 G/S production lasted seven years and during this period, BMW Motorrad produced 21,864 motorbikes. The GS name actually refers to the “Gelande/Strabe”, which in German means off-road/road, so it`s perfect for exploring or touring.
Over the last forty years, the BMW GS range has evolved and improved when it comes to performance and equipment. In 1999, BMW produced a new GS Bike, the R1150GS and the R1150GS adventure model which was fitted with a larger fuel tank. The R1150GS series production ran for five years from 1999 to 2004 and a total of 58,023 standard R1150GS were produced. Another 17,028 adventure models were also produced in the same period.
In 2004, BMW introduced there new 1200cc engine, which had a 19% power increase over the older 1150cc engine. The BMW GS1200 series became one of the bestselling motorcycles in history with over 1m units produced. The BMW GS range has become part of global culture and has featured in numerous TV shows and travel blogs and i own a GS1200 myself, this is my current bike below which needs a clean.
My BMW GSA1250 Test Ride
I recently rode the BMW GSA-1250 HP version and i loved it. The new engine purred like a tiger, it was lively and responsive, the new shiftcam technology worked like a dream. I currently ride the BMW GS1200 Exclusive (2018) with a 1200cc engine, but this new 1250cc engine is far superior. My current bike also uses the BMW TFT and to me, its the best TFT around as its clear and easy to use.
The only noticeable change to the bike is that BMW have gone away from Brembo’s Brakes and the GSA-1250 i rode used two different brake brands. A BMW branded brake (Hayes) on the front wheel and the traditional Brembo’s brakes on the rear. On my test ride, i didn’t notice any difference in braking performance and quickly forgot all about the different brakes.
But for me, it was the GSA bigger road presence that won me over. The GSA version uses a bigger screen and it has a bigger upper bodywork. This bigger bodywork actually contains a larger 30litre fuel tank, which is perfect for touring. The GSA bigger road presence also improves safety and reduces the effect of wind turbulence on the rider. This new GSA-1250 also handled better at speed and appeared to have a much better turning circle at slower speeds than my GS.
The GSA-1250 gearbox has also been improved and its new quick shifter was smoother than my current bike quick shifter system. The changes between my current bike and this new version were small, but they were really noticeable to me during the day, but i really enjoyed the GSA1250 ride, it`s a truly brilliant machine.
New BMW GS-1250 & GSA-1250 (2021 Model Range)
BMW have recently launched new models of the GS1250 and GSA1250 ready for 2021. These new versions include a lot of new technology, which enhances the riding experience. BMW have also refreshed the motorbike colour schemes and introduced a new 40th year anniversary colour to celebrate the history of the BMW GS history. But it`s the new technology that caught my attention as it improves safety.
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- The bikes integral ABS pro is now standard across the GS range as it now uses a new six axis IMU. This means that the ABS is more sophisticated and capable in all riding situations.
- The ABS Pro now has linked braking to the hand brake lever, which manages both front and rear wheel brakes systems. Rear brake operations remain unchanged.
- The BMW GS1250 base model now includes traction control and benefits from the new six axis IMU. This new six axis IMU also enhances the optional semi-active electronic system mode.
- BMW have introduced an adaptive LED headlight, which enhances safety as the main light beam steers into the corners.
- The BMW GS hill start control pro is now optimized for off road performance.
- The BMW GS1250 riding modes have also been improved and a new ECO-mode has been introduced. These new models are also available with optional heated seats.
- The new colours include basic, Rallye and Triple Blacks, thou i think the triple black looks stunning.
There is a long list of new options available for these new bikes. You can spend all day playing the BMW configurator, like i did. Please follow this link for more information about these new bikes.
My car or my bike?
I actually love riding my BMW GS1200 as it makes me think. There is an emotional connection between my brain and my bike. I have to think about my riding speed, my position on the road and how i interact with other road users and stay safe. My bike simply becomes an extension of my body, my hands managing the throttle, clutch and brakes, whilst my feet gently control the gears and rear brake.
When i ride, i become part of the local environment, i love to see the mountains of Scotland or the valleys of Wales. I don’t ride with distractions, i don’t ride with music blaring out, the only sound i can hear is the sound of the boxer engine growling or the shallow rumble of my tyres crunching the miles.
My car is a functional masterpiece, a product of the Volkswagen group, so its reliable, practical, stylish and full of toys, i don’t use. I can drive to Scotland and back on a single tank of fuel with Muse playing in the background. I can drive to the shops and do my weekly shop, so I have two different machines for two different uses, but my heart will always stay with my bike as i dream about Stelvio and the adventures of tomorrow and struggle with the ongoing dramas of Brexit.
My current BMW GS1200.
I bought my BMW GS because i liked its go anyway appeal, it’s a true multirole motorbike. I liked its aggressive styling, its performance, practicality and its equipment. It’s a motorbike for all seasons, all locations and its perfect for riding along the motorway or crossing a desert. I can go away for a long weekend and take everything i need from clothing to cameras. Riding motorcycles is freedom, it’s nice to feel the wind in your face as you explore the country. No two journeys are the same, no two views will ever be the same. My bike is my personal time machine, the future is always in front of me as i can never go back in time.
My Science Fiction Bikes.
I`ve actually incorporated a future BMW GS model into my science fiction trilogy. This future GS model still has the GS legendary performance, thou it uses a new engine that can be used on earth and off-world. Over the years, I’ve read a lot of science fiction books and watched a lot of scifi programs. I can only think of two scifi series that have used motorcycle type vehicles in them, these are Mad Max and Star Wars.
In the Star Wars movie, The Empire Strikes Back, the Imperial Stormer Troopers used an aerial speeder bike that flies through the forests of Endor. In Mad Max, they used all types of ground vehicles including motorbikes. So, i thought it was time to introduce a new motorbike into the science fiction arena and that bike is the BMW GS.
Conclusion
My own GS1200 has opened my eyes to new types of exploration. The BMW GS range is a really versatile machine, perfect for touring. It also comes with a lot of aftermarket options to suit your every needs. The new BMW GS1250 doesn’t have the power of a KTM 1290 Super Adventure or the top end speed of the Ducati Panigale (V4), but it doesn’t need it.
I need a bike to be fun, practical, comfortable and entertaining to ride. I’ve already decided that my new bike will be the BMW GSA-1250 (2021 model), which is an upgrade from my brilliant BMW GS1200 Te Exclusive. The new bike BMW GS1250 could either be the Triple Black or the 40th anniversary model to help me explore the world. Many thanks to Barnstormers, Maidenhead for the loan GSA1250.
Remember, always be safe, ride safe and protect our environment, we only have one planet, we have to protect it.
PS. I almost forget, there are many different websites and YouTube channels dedicated to motorbikes. I have subscribed and follow The Missenden Flyer, Nick Hodge, Shawn Smoak and Bennett’s Bikes. They have a mix of great bike reviews, product reviews and useful tips and tricks that have helped me over the years. But there are many more online to view, enjoy and learn from.
MY BMW R1250GSA Update 06/08/2022
Regards
Marc
References and Links
- Image References.
- BMW GS1250 images from Shutterstock
- News. (Link)
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