-Official bookings are open
-Powered by a new 1,300cc engine
-Replaces the highly successful R 1250 GS
The BMW R 1300 GS is all set to launch in India on 13 June. BMW seems to have chosen the date to go with the ‘1300’ moniker in the name of what is undoubtedly one of the biggest launches of the year. Nevertheless, we finally have a launch date and that should get big ADV fans in India excited.
The BMW R 1300 GS will have a BMW R 1250 GS size shoes to fill. The ‘1250’ was a highly popular model both in India and abroad. Its versatility and practicality is what endeared it to adventure motorcycle buyers, not to mention the ease with which one could ride it.
The new bike seems to continue in the same vein as its predecessor while being much slimmer, more feature packed and with a larger boxer engine. In fact, it is more athletic in its style and build while still looking like a typical BMW ‘GS.’
Under the bodywork, there’s a sheet metal frame that’s joined by a die cast aluminium subframe. BMW’s patented Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension unit is seen here and we can expect the new bike to have a pliant and comfortable ride. Even the handling could be more agile but we can say that with certainty after our first ride review from Ladakh goes live on the same day as the launch.
Powering the bike is a new 1,300cc, twin-cylinder engine that makes 145bhp at 7,750rpm and 149Nm at 6,500rpm. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox. BMW says that while in terms of displacement, the engine is larger than the R1 250 GS, it is more compact which was achieved by placing the gearbox under the engine.
BMW has also thrown in a comprehensive electronics suite, including multiple ride modes, traction control, switchable ABS, radar assisted cruise control and more.
BMW Motorrad India will launch the bike in following variants- Triple Black, GS Trophy and the Option 719 Tramuntana.
Official bookings are open and prices of the BMW R 1300 GS are expected to begin from Rs 22 lakh to Rs 23 lakh, ex-showroom. The bike goes up against the Ducati Multistrada V4, Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 and the Triumph Tiger 1200.
