BMW R 1300 GS Road Review

The 2024 BMW R 1300 GS ($25,575 as tested) represents a significant evolution in BMW’s adventure-touring lineup, building upon the legacy of its predecessors with notable enhancements in performance, design, and technology.

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At the heart of the R 1300 GS is a refined 1300cc boxer twin, delivering 128 hp at 7750 rpm and a robust 96 lb.-ft. of torque at 6410 rpm—all put to the pavement through a six-speed quickshifter-enabled gearbox and a hydraulic clutch to the 17-inch Metzeler Tourance Next 2 rear tire.

“Let’s say it is something that’s coming from the heart,” says Motorrad’s veteran product manager for the R 1300 GS, Mr. Reiner Fings. “When you’re riding that motorbike and you feel the pulsing of this boxer engine, it gives you… It’s a buddy that is with you.”

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This increase in power and torque results in a more responsive and exhilarating riding experience. BMW boxers have been in a league of their own for nearly a century, but the gap in terms of sound, vibration, and character becomes even larger compared to other manufacturers’ powertrain configurations. Another plus is the engine architecture has been reconfigured to be more compact, contributing to a substantial weight reduction compared to the previous R 1250 GS models. One gripe however: The response of the hydraulic clutch paired with the calibration of the ride-by-wire throttle can make for grabbiness during launches.

“The character of the boxer, even from very low rpm, is very strong and very stable at idle,” Fings explains in his thick German accent. “That’s something that gives a lot of trust when you’re going for a ride. And that’s a character we decided should always be there. Then, when you want to have the punch—with the extra displacement (46cc)—you get the punch.

“It’s not something that freaks you out. It’s not like riding a rocket, but it’s such a strong, pulsating engine concept that it makes it easy to ride,” he continues.

The engine benefits from BMW Motorrad’s ShiftCam technology, which mechanically adjusts the intake camshaft based on engine load and rpm.

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“It’s really simple to do that with the intake cam,” Fings explains. “You can control the incoming gases, or flow into the cylinder, and you change the lift of the valves. So you control what is coming into the cylinder.”

As the name implies, “It shifts from a low cam profile to a high cam profile. It’s not something that happens over a wide range—it just happens. When you’re idling and don’t need a lot of power, the engine runs very smooth and very easy,” Fings says.

“And when you want the punch, you open the throttle, the cam shifts to the higher profile, and then you get the punch,” he adds. “So, let’s say the ShiftCam fits perfectly with the character of the boxer engine.”

The R 1300 GS features a new chassis design incorporating a steel mainframe and a cast aluminum rear subframe. This construction improves rigidity while reducing weight, enhancing the bike’s agility at any speed. We especially appreciated its nimble handling and generous steering angle at parking lot speeds.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About BMW Motorrad’s ‘Option 719′ 2024 R 1300 GS

In typical Motorrad spirit, the R 1300 GS rolls on 19-inch front and 17-inch aluminum wheels, with a handsome single-sided swingarm showcasing the rear wheel. Our test model was fitted with the $500 Cross Spoke Wheel option.

“So, the alternative might be a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel. But we chose this setup because the main use for the GS is touring—and usually, on-road touring,” Fings tells us when asked why Motorrad doesn’t offer an alternative wheel configuration. “We found that stability with the Telelever—especially on-road—is much better using the 19-inch front wheel. Most customers will have a much better ride feel.

“The other consideration is, of course, the height of the motorbike,” he continues. “When you design a bike with a 21-inch front wheel, it’s 1 inch higher on average at the axle center. So with the 19-inch front wheel, we achieve the most stability for more than 90 to 95% of the motorbike’s use.”

The Evo Telelever front suspension and Evo paralever rear suspension have been refined for improved handling and stability. The bike feels more agile, with its mass centralized and kept low. This pays dividends during slow-speed maneuvers and provides a sportier feel on twisty roads. It also remains rock solid at highway speeds—fast enough to risk losing your license.

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BMW has equipped the R 1300 GS with a full suite of advanced technologies. Standard features include a 6.5-inch color TFT display (with signature BMW fonts that it’s been using for the last six years), LED headlight, multiple ride modes (Rain, Road, Eco, Enduro), hill start control, and radar-powered Active Cruise Control (included in the $3985 Premium Package, which also adds forward collision warning with braking and lane change warning). These features work as advertised and add a layer of safety, especially when rider attention lapses. Optional upgrades such as a heated seat ($185) and an electronically adjustable windscreen ($345) further elevate the experience. Most features are operated via the switch gear and BMW’s signature Multi-Controller wheel. The system works well, though it would be welcome to see BMW improve the tactile feedback and add backlighting to the switch gear.

True to form, the R 1300 GS’ ergonomics are well suited for a wide range of riders and riding scenarios.

“When you think about how you can improve touring capability, the main idea is usually ergonomics,” Fings says. “Because for daily use, it’s very important to have a motorbike—we call it, ‘It comes to you.’ The bike comes to you and offers accessibility. You can sit on it, you feel really comfortable. Everything is there for you. Most important is that you can touch your feet to the ground.”

While a low seat height benefits shorter riders, it can compromise handling for sport-oriented riding. That’s where the $595 Adaptive Height Control accessory proves its value.

Related: 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Preview

“The bike lowers when you’re stopped and raises when you’re riding—it’s like a camel,” Fings explains. “The camel stands in front of you, inviting you to ride. And when you start riding, it lifts up. Then it’s the full performance of the motorbike that you can enjoy.”

The seat is comfortable for long-distance touring, and the handlebars and footpegs accommodate a wide range of rider sizes. BMW also offers several seat height options to further tailor fit. The new electronically adjustable windscreen is intuitive and offers generous adjustment range. Integrated wind deflectors further improve wind protection and overall comfort.

The 2024 BMW R 1300 GS stands as a testament to BMW’s continued leadership in the adventure-touring segment. And its customers have responded—BMW Motorrad has sold over 50,000 units worldwide since its redesign for the 2024 model year. With its powerful engine, refined handling, advanced technology, and thoughtful ergonomics, it delivers a compelling package for both seasoned adventurers and newcomers to the GS family.