Updated BMW R 1250 GS gets 40th anniversary treatment
More equipment, more options for BMW’s popular adventure bikesJust as expected, BMW has officially unveiled 40th anniversary editions of its iconic boxer-powered adventure bikes, the R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure. What we didn’t expect, however, beyond the historic black and yellow ‘Bumblebee’ liveries, is a host of new equipment levels such as more electronic rider aids, adaptive LED headlights that swivel into a corner and a heated seat.
The R-Series’ 1254cc boxer engine, with BMW’s ShiftCam variable-valve technology, remains mechanically unchanged, with peak power and torque outputs of 100kW (136hp) at 7750rpm and 143Nm at 6250rpm. The popular adventure bikes do receive a new engine knock sensor system to better handle low-quality fuels as found throughout remote locations of the world.
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The latest 40th anniversary models, including a revised version of the entry-level G 310 GS, arrive in local showrooms from December following the recently-unveiled F 750 GS and F 850 GS anniversary editions, which land from late November. The F 850 GS Adventure anniversary edition is due in the first quarter of next year.
BMW Australia is yet to announce pricing and local specification of the incoming models (they typically vary between countries), but the bikes are expected to be more expensive to reflect the additional standard equipment. The current R 1250 GS price tag starts at $26,265 ride away, while the R 1250 GS Adventure, distinguished predominantly by its 30-litre fuel capacity, starts from $28,365 ride away.
So what’s new with what is arguably the world’s most popular adventure bike?
Beyond the Bumblebee, or ‘Avus Black’, livery from the R 100 GS (other colours are available), the headline news includes:
- The addition of the more sophisticated ABS Pro system, which uses a six-axis IMU for better braking performance on and off-road. It also uses a smaller, lighter ABS unit;
- Adaptive LED headlights that automatically swivel (as per the K 1600 models) for a better spread of light towards the direction of travel as the bike leans through a corner (optional);
- Pro riding modes with greater options including a riding mode pre-selection and adjustable engine brake control;
- An ‘Eco’ riding mode for more fuel-efficient riding via a softened throttle map and reduced torque;
- A more advanced hill start system, dubbed Hill Start Control Pro, for improved take off when riding uphill (optional);
- Heated seats for the rider and pillion (optional);
- USB sockets as standard.
BMW has also updated the G 310 GS entry-level adventure bike with subtle refinements while meeting Euro 5 emissions regulations. These include an anti-hopping clutch; an LED headlight and indicators; new levers with hand span adjustment and a 'gently revised designed', according to BMW.
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