2019 BMW R1250GS First Look Review

BMW has unveiled the 2019 R1250GS, a thorough revision to the company's go-anywhere adventure bike. Engineers nudged the flat-twin's displacement from 1,170cc to 1,254cc, gaining 9 hp in the process, though the company says the new design offers both better fuel economy and reduced emissions. That's thanks to a variable valve timing system.

BMW ShiftCam Technology adjusts valve timing and stroke to deliver either better fuel efficiency or more power. At small throttle openings, one set of intake cam lobes reduces valve lift. Larger throttle openings shift the intake cam to a second, more aggressive set of lobes with maximum lift for top-end power. An electronic actuator handles the change. Both the intake and the exhaust cams are now driven by a toothed chain in place of the old roller, and a handful of other tweaks help the 2019 R1250GS make 134 hp and 105 pound-feet of torque.

Buyers can expect a rash of technology as standard equipment. Two riding modes, automatic stability control, and hill start control come with every 2019 GS, as does a new TFT gauge cluster and LED headlight. There's also a factory aluminum bash plate designed to protect the engine from damage during hard core off-roading.

As usual, there’s a candy store of optional equipment on the new bike, including Riding Modes Pro, which adds all manner of additional rider aids, from dynamic traction control to dynamic brake assistant. Check the right box, and you can even have an Intelligent Emergency Call system installed. Mash the button, and help comes running. Other options include a “next generation” electronic suspension with automatic load compensation. The system adapts constantly, adjusting damping depending on load, riding style, and maneuvers.

Look for the 2019 R1250GS to bow at Cologne, Germany’s Intermot show in October.