More Adventure for BMW R 1300 GS Fans

The new R 1300 GSA that everyone knew was coming soon has officially disrobed at a BMW Motorrad Days event in Garmisch, Bavaria. Adding tank capacity and even more off-road capability, the Adventure version is the rugged, go-absolutely-anywhere variant of the recently launched R 1300 GS (see NZ Autocar review next month).

Teased in a series of online partial reveals, the new GSA is the successor to the hot-selling R 1250 GSA. Like that bike it is basically a larger-tanked, more rugged ‘world traveller’ variant of the standard GS.

Thus, it uses the new R 1300 GS that launched recently here as its basis. Which means it features the same 1300cc boxer twin packing 107kW and 149Nm. It also uses the new bike’s pressed steel ‘shell’ frame, the rear subframe being made of aluminium. The engine is a stressed member, so the bike is lighter than its 1250 forebear. 

The clear distinguishing feature is the bigger, wider 30-litre aluminium fuel tank (vs 19 litres standard). It is shaped to make tank bag fitment easier. New angular styling includes clear side wind deflectors and its standard-fit, alloy-rimmed ‘Crosspoke’ wire wheels. It’s fitted with chunkier tyres too.

The new GSA comes with 20mm more suspension travel front and rear in keeping with its expedition role. Spring travel is now 210mm at the front and 220mm at the rear.

The new GSA is the first BMW to come as standard with Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) featuring automated clutch operation. The same system is due to come on the 2025 R 1300 GS. Shifts are made manually if desired (still clutchless), or are fully automated.

Four different versions of the new GSA with varying spec and colour options will be available. Included are a base variant, Triple Black, GS Trophy and the top-spec Option 719 accessorized version aka the Karakorum. Some of these are coming here, though the exact mix and price are not yet to hand. However, both manual and ASA variants will be available. Expect red, green, blue and black primary colours.

Features that carry over from the 1300 GS include the new style ‘Matrix’ LED headlight ( adaptive lighting an option), Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) with brake function, and the 6.5in colour TFT dash with scrolling wheel switchgear. There’s also keyless ride, ‘Emergency Call’, heated grips, a smartphone charging compartment and four riding modes.

NZ-bound GSA’s will also likely get BMW’s radar-guided Active Cruise Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Change Warning and Rear End Collision Warning (RECW).

A new, all-aluminium three-box luggage system consists of a top case and left and right panniers, all round the 37L mark. There’s also the adaptive vehicle height control system to make mounting and dismounting easier (lowers ride height by 30mm).

The stated kerb weight of the new 1300 GSA is 269kg (compared to the 1300GS’s 237kg), while its seat height is 870mm, adjustable to 890mm (GS: 850-870mm).

Given the current BMW R 1300 GS ranges in price from just under $40k to $45,990 fully featured, we’d expect a top spec GSA to be around the $50k mark.