First look at the all-new 2024 BMW R 1300 GS

BMW has pulled the covers off its long-awaited R 1300 GS, with the latest-generation adventure tourer promising more power, better handling, extra tech, and a significantly reduced weight.

Replacing the outgoing R 1250 GS, the new 2024 BMW R 1300 GS platform is powered by a redesigned 1300cc boxer twin-cylinder engine that produces 145hp (107kW) at 7750rpm and 149Nm at 6500rpm. In BMW’s own words, this makes it the most powerful boxer engine in the GS series.

The bike is also significantly lighter too, with BMW claiming a weight reduction of 12kg compared to the previous model. The spec sheet lists the new model as 237kg wet.

In the electronics and safety department, the big news is the addition of radar technology, which allows for active cruise control, front collision warning, and lane change warning.

The R 1300 GS also now comes with four riding modes as standard, with the added Enduro mode optimised for off-road use. The other modes are Rain, Road, and Eco – the latter helping to achieve optimum fuel economy. And additional ride modes are offered as options.

All of the usual electronic features are still there including a 6.5-inch colour TFT display, keyless ignition, heated grips, ABS Pro, dynamic traction control, engine drag torque control, dynamic brake assist, and hill hold control all included as standard. There is also new Matrix LED lighting as standard.

A new steel sheet metal main frame and die-cast aluminium rear frame are designed to offer a stiffer and slimmer chassis, and also complement the new suspension, which features an EVO Telelever setup at the front and an EVO Paralever system at the rear.

Available as optional equipment, the new Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (which replaces the Dynamic ESA system) offers more electronic control of suspension characteristics, while adaptive vehicle height control and sports suspension (which offers an extra 20mm of travel) are also available as ex-works options.

The new R 1300 GS will come in six different variants with each offering increasing levels of equipment, however, as always, there is a large variety of optional accessories and features available to purchase individually. There are different wheel options across the range including both cast-alloy and wire-spoked rims, but all stick with the 19- and 17-inch combo.

Interestingly, there is no official word of a GS Adventure version just yet. The R 1300 GS has a 19L tank, but it makes sense for a 30L version of the new model to be waiting in the wings.

Local pricing will start from $26,000 plus on-road costs for the base version, while the range-topping Option 719 variant will check in at $36,690 plus on-road costs. The new model is expected to arrive in the first half of 2024.