Just had a couple of days out on the new BMW R1300GS, taking some American buddies for a spin in New Zealand. We hit up Hanmer Springs and crossed the Southern Alps via Lewis Pass, winding down at Maruia Springs Resort for the night. Talk about testing a bike in every kind of weather! We got it all – chilly mornings, a bit of sun, some rain and wind up in the mountains, and then it warmed up again. Perfect setting to see what the R1300GS has got, especially since it’s taking over from the R1250GS.
Big Leap from the R1250GS
I’ve been riding the R1250GS for the past four years, and it's been my go-to. So, jumping onto the R1300GS, I was curious and, man, it didn't disappoint. BMW's really outdone themselves this time. They took everything in the R1250GS, fine-tuned it, made it lighter, tighter, and just... better. Riding the R1300GS, you feel this straight away. It’s like BMW waved a magic wand over it.
True GS Spirit with Modern Touches
The new R1300GS still has that classic BMW GS vibe. Low center of gravity, big engine, feels safe, and if you do take a tumble, it’s got you covered. What’s new is the gearbox – smooth and snappy – and it’s got power whenever you need it. Feels like a big leap but still has that familiar GS feel, which is awesome.
Riding Modes and Wind Tunnel Magic
Now, the riding modes are something else. You can switch from cruising comfortably to feeling like you’re on a sport bike, especially when you hit those twisty mountain roads. And for off-road? It's got you covered. They’ve also worked wonders with the wind tunnel testing, giving you a quieter ride. The electronic windshield adjusts to different heights, so it doesn’t matter if you're tall or short – it works.
Great for All Sorts of Riders
What I really like is how BMW's made this bike fit different riders. It's lighter, feels more nimble, and the adjustable suspension is a neat touch. Pulls up to a stop and it just lowers down, making it easy for anyone to hop on and off.
So, wrapping it up, the BMW R1300GS – it’s a serious step up from the R1250GS. It's designed to impress, whether you've been riding BMWs for ages or just considering your first. With the classic BMW feel and a host of new tweaks, it's something special. And beyond these features, it's a bike that wins hearts—I know because I’ve already fallen for it.