The MCN Test: Life in the old GS yet

BMW’s new R1300GS shares very little with the R1250GS it replaces. It’s still powered by a flat twin and its 6.5in
colour display is the same, but elsewhere it’s all change.

It has a new 1300cc short stroke flat-twin, a redesigned gearbox, different chassis, suspension and electronics. It’s slimmer, lighter and more powerful… but is it tangibly better?

That’s what we’re here to find out on the MCN250’s B-road and motorway loops.

Creating a new GS is a big deal for BMW and charged with jeopardy. They need to move the game on, but not mess with a formula that’s made it one of the planet’s best-selling big bikes. The R1250GS is an effortlessly brilliant tourer and a first-class cabin for rider and pillion alike.

It’s sporty enough to cover ground quickly, can go off-road and there’s a plethora of accessories to tailor it perfectly for you. Some say it’s the only big bike you’ll ever need…