FIRST THOUGHTS: 2021 BMW R 1250 GS Anniversary Edition

The legendary GS moniker is turning 40 and BMW is celebrating by releasing an entire range of special edition models. The ’40 Years of GS’ models come in a striking ‘Bumblebee’ livery inspired by the iconic R 100 GS. There is also a bunch of minor technical updates, as well as new standard and optional equipment.

BMW Motorrad Australia gave us the opportunity to test the 2021 ’40 Years of GS’ R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure (GSA) during a special launch event through the mountains outside of Melbourne. We’ll have a full review and video very soon, but here is our initial impression of the new machines…

The highly-praised BMW boxer engine has remained largely unchanged for 2021, but that doesn’t make the R 1250 GS any less of a thrill to ride. It is super smooth, torquey, versatile, and it sounds great too. ShiftCam, which was introduced in 2019, takes the already-brilliant engine to another level. The only change for 2021 is a new engine knock sensor which caters for low-quality fuel found in remote areas of the world.

For a true dual-purpose machine like the R 1250 GS, a good suspension setup is essential. Fortunately, BMW has nailed it. Well, mostly. I rarely had to think about the suspension, which means it was doing its job. It worked equally well on road and off road, and the optional Dynamic ESA system is a nice addition. For the heavier and bulkier GSA, however, the rear suspension did feel a little bouncy on the tarmac with stock settings. Luckily there is plenty of adjustment available.

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It’s no wonder why people ride these machines all around the world – both the R 1250 GS and GSA are supremely comfortable bikes. With a comfy seat, well-positioned ‘bar and levers, and a generous windshield, I was able to ride all day with little fatigue. Another perk is the standing position, which is possibly better than any other adventure bike I’ve ridden. It’s a small factor, but one that proves BMW’s impeccable attention to detail.

The electronics package is incredibly comprehensive, which is what we’ve come to expect from BMW. There are a few updates and additions for 2021, as well as some new optional functions. I’ll go into more detail on the electronics in our full review.

The stock-standard BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GSA check in at $26,295 (ride away) and $28,365 (ride away) respectively – par for the course, if you ask us, for big-bore adventure bikes of this level of specification. Meanwhile, the ’40 Years of GS’ edition models are priced at $35,306 (ride away) and $36,851 (ride away) respectively.

At first glance, the leap in price seems rather excessive, but it is worth noting that nearly every GS model sold in Australia is fitted with at least one of the various package options and equipment levels available to BMW customers.

The '40 Years of GS' package includes the highest level of specification available as a package option. So, while technical updates to the bike are minimal, the anniversary models do come with all the good stuff, making the premium price tag a lot more justifiable.

There is no hiding the fact that these special edition models are expensive, but you certainly get what you pay for. And there will be loads of hardcore GS enthusiasts, and riders with deep pockets that would be thrilled to have one of these exclusive machines in their shed.

Keep an eye on bikesales.com.au for a full written and video wrap-up of the ’40 Years of GS’ celebration event soon.