2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure First Look

[Hugh Janus]

The 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure rolls in with many of the same upgrades introduced on last year’s standard 1300 GS, but adds adjustable suspension, more ergonomic adjustability, and new luggage design. (BMW/)

In the wake of BMW’s launch of the all-new R 1300 GS last year, it was inevitable that a companion GS Adventure version would drop soon after—that’s just the way BMW Motorrad has been doing new platform launches for years, and if nothing else, the German brand likes consistency in its cycles. This is a bit later than expected, but here comes the new 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure, bringing many of the same new features we saw in its base model brother, but also adding a raft of premium upgrades (besides the de rigueur taller seat, longer suspension, and bigger fuel tank). Like the standard R 1300 GS, the Adventure variant gets the new 1,300cc engine and a redesigned chassis along with Automated Shift Assistant as an option, but also revises the visuals, luggage systems, and the electronics package to differentiate it.

That means the new 145 hp, 1,300cc boxer engine with ShiftCam tech appears here, but the 2025 Adventure also gets a new profile with an emphasis on the aluminum tank and its storage capability. Triple Black option shown. (BMW/)

We covered the new 2024 R 1300 GS in depth when it was announced last year, and many of those revisions carry over to this new 2025 R 1300 GS Adventure, including that more compact but larger-capacity 1,300cc boxer engine, which claims the same output of 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 110 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 as the standard model. The R 1300 GS Adventure also uses liquid-cooling with a radiator to manage higher thermal stresses, while the DOHC cylinder heads leverage chain-driven cams with BMW’s ShiftCam tech to vary intake-valve timing and lift. With increased power and torque, the new engine also has the same increased compression ratio of 13.3:1.

Related: 2024 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Bike Announced

A new face for the Adventure includes a fresh LED headlamp along with two auxiliary LED headlamps to throw out extra illumination. Hand protectors house new integrated turn signals and grips are heated. (BMW/)

Also carrying over from the standard model are the Adventure’s six-speed transmission and clutch, which are no longer behind the engine but underneath it. The new layout helps packaging and balance but also saves weight, with 8.6 pounds shaved off the total engine mass. As before, power gets to the transmission via a wet clutch with assist and slipper functions, as well as an anti-hopping mechanism (Shift Assistant Pro is optional). Out back you’ll see the same 2-into-1 stainless steel exhaust with a closed-loop catalyzer spitting out spent gases.

A better view of the 7.9-gallon aluminum tank which sports a new profile that’s narrower on the sides near the rider and has new luggage mounting points up top. Design allows for easier refueling. (BMW/)

The GS’s new steel sheet-metal frame and lattice-tube aluminum subframe also carry over to the taller Adventure, but on this point, BMW emphasizes that the use of load-bearing, extruded aluminum tubes in the design was based on the idea that the Adventure would be ridden primarily on longer trips. That meant a greater focus on seating comfort for the rider and passenger, as well as devising better integration of the large-volume luggage system. The Comfort rider’s seats are available in three seat heights (heating is optional), with height adjustment (+/- 0.8 inch) and tilt adjustment (4 degrees) located on the vehicle. As a side effect of those efforts, the Adventure’s ergos are more modular too; passenger footrest extensions can be removed for a sporty solo configuration, and three different grab handles can be fitted.

The revamped frame also carries the same new EVO Telelever front system and EVO paralever rear end, but because this is an Adventure model, there’s 0.8 inch more travel at the front and rear, with 8.3 inches at the front (as opposed to 7.5 inches on the R 1300 GS) and 8.7 inches at the rear. That means the seat is taller as well; in standard trim, the saddle sits at 34.3 inches, but can also be adjusted to a 35-inch height.

Cockpit view shows generous front width of the tank and mounting points as well as 6.5-inch full-color TFT and secondary Sport screen which displays additional info. The electronics package includes four riding modes, Dynamic Suspension adjustment, Dynamic Cruise control, traction control, and more. Windshield is height adjustable. (BMW/)

If you add any of the two Adaptive Height Control options, the bike lowers by 1.2 inches at a stop—equating to a height of 33.1/33.8 inches when stopped and maintaining the 34.3/35-inch measurement when riding. The Adaptive Height Control Comfort option starts 0.8 inch lower than the standard height, and sits at 32.3/33.0 inches when stopped and 33.5/34.2 inches when on the move. That taller suspension also switches up the Adventure’s trail and wheelbase numbers, with trail at a longer 4.7 inches, and the wheelbase at an extended 60.4 inches (the R 1300 GS sits at 59.8 inches).

Because all of the above affect ergonomics as well, BMW addressed various touch points on the bike, so riders of different heights can position the seat, handlebars, and footrests to their liking. With two different handlebar variants (standard and comfort handlebars) and optional two-stage handlebar risers (+0.6 inch and +1.2 inches, respectively) as well as a handlebar twist angle of 10 degrees, ergonomics can be customized extensively. In total there are five rider seat options, three passenger seat options, three rider footrest options, and three hand lever, foot lever, and foot brake lever options.

Rider’s seat is available in three height options; there’s onboard adjustability for height and tilt as well. Riders can also choose different handlebar, footrest, and hand lever, foot lever, and foot brake lever options. (BMW/)

The Adventure’s electronics package is likewise similar to the base GS, with four standard riding modes to manipulate engine response: Rain, Road, Eco, and Enduro. An optional Riding Modes Pro package adds three additional modes: Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, and Enduro Pro. Braking, too, is unchanged, with twin discs grabbed by four-piston radial-mount front calipers and a single disc with a two-piston rear caliper, both enhanced by BMW Motorrad Full Integral ABS Pro as well as Dynamic Brake Control.

At the business end of those systems are two different wheel options for the Adventure, however, both sized 19 x 3.0-inch at the front and 17 x 4.5-inch at the rear. All model variants have the new cross-spoke wheels with aluminum rims as standard; the optional enduro forged wheels are intended for off-road use and shave approximately 4.0 pounds off the more robust spoke hoops.

New aluminum side cases offer a total capacity over 73 liters and securely attach to aluminum case holders. Magnetic coupling in the left case holder acts as an interface for the USB charging socket in the left case. (BMW/)

The Adventure does the standard GS electronics one better, however, with the addition of Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA), which is only available as an option for the base GS model. The system improves on previous tech by combining the dynamic adjustment of the front and rear damping with a corresponding adjustment of the spring rate depending on the selected riding mode, riding condition, and maneuvers.

Also included on the R 1300 GS Adventure is Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) with braking function; other standard electronics include Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), and Hill Start Control (HSC) as well as a tire pressure monitor. The Riding Assistant system is still an extra cost option: that suite consists of Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Change Warning.

In the cockpit, you’ll see that same 6.5-inch full-color TFT screen from the base 1300 GS, which works with the standard BMW Motorrad multi-controller to access vehicle and connectivity functions. An additional Sport screen displays more information, like lean angle, traction and braking behavior is displayed, as well as a rev counter with gear indicator. You also get two different power options: a 12-volt on-board socket as well as a USB-C socket with a 5-volt power supply in the hinged smartphone charging compartment on the top of the tank. BMW adds Intelligent Emergency Call as standard, which can be activated automatically or manually by pressing the SOS button on the right handlebar.

The 2025 R 1300 GS Adventure will be available in several option packages and trim styles when it hits the market sometime later this year; pricing is not yet available. (BMW/)

The Adventure’s designers also took care to visually differentiate the big bike from its standard stablemate, with a completely new fly line meant to emphasize the bike’s mass, yet highlight its versatility. A key component in that design is the massive 7.9-gallon aluminum fuel tank, which not only provides effective front weather protection, but offers improved ergonomics thanks to its narrow side surfaces. The large surface area also allows for additional luggage—like say, a 12-liter tank bag (optional)—via three fastening elements added to the upper tank paneling, which are designed for easy refueling and quick access to the smartphone charging compartment. Individual fastening eyelets on the tank also allow luggage to be lashed down.

For added weather protection, there’s a standard large windshield (adjustable) as well as two large transparent wind deflectors; an electric windshield is optional. The grips are heated, and the standard hand protectors come with extensions, while rubberized tank trays to the left and right of the upper tank covers are also standard. Up front, the Adventure gets a new full LED headlamp with a distinctive light icon along with two auxiliary LED headlamps that blend into the bodywork, with newly designed LED turn indicators integrated in the hand protectors at the front, as well as out back.

The R 1300 GS Adventure in basic trim. (BMW/)

Standard equipment includes case holders for the new aluminum side cases, each with a load capacity of up to 22 pounds. Total capacity for those bags is over 73 liters (37 liters left, 36.5 liters right) and they mount simply and securely to the forged aluminum case holders. The magnetic coupling integrated into the left-hand case holder acts as the electrical interface for the USB charging socket in the left-hand case. Optional 10-liter volume extensions per case providing even more storage space.

BMW also gives customers its Ultimate Care Break-In Service, or “600-mile service” included in the base price of the new 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure. Pricing has not yet been announced, and BMW says the bike will be available in Q4 of this year.

Of course, there’s optional equipment galore already on tap for the model, in various package add-ons.

The Premium Package gives you:

• Riding Modes Pro
• Sport brakes
• Riding Assistant
• Shift Assistant Pro or Automated Shift Assistant
• Headlight Pro
• GPS prep
• Chrome-plated headers
• Electrically adjustable windshield
• Aluminum side case mounts
• Aluminum top case mount

Enduro Package Pro consists of:

• Handlebar risers
• Short enduro hand levers
• Height-adjustable GS Vario rider footrests
• Hand protectors
• Front turn signal relocation stalks

The Triple Black option goes for a sleeker vibe, though it's a purely cosmetic difference. (BMW/)

Variants

2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Basic

In its basic version, the R 1300 GS Adventure is finished in solid Racing Red, with a silver-colored tank and black and red seats for the rider and passenger. The color scheme is complemented by black handlebars, black rims, and red hand protector extensions.

2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Style Triple Black

The Style Triple Black version is a bit classier, with black accents and the aluminum fuel tank finished in Tinted Clear Coat. The standard engine protector is black with silver inserts; black handlebars, black wheel rims, and gray hand protector extensions are traditional Triple Black colors. Large aluminum radiator cowls have holders for the radiator cowl bags, and two black/gray comfort seats come with seat heating, a luggage holder, and a high windshield with large wind deflectors.

The Trophy trim adds lighting and storage components along with a punchier color scheme. (BMW/)

2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Style GS Trophy

The Style GS Trophy model is focused on off-road capability, and wears Racing Blue metallic paintwork complemented by solid Light White and solid Racing Red stripes. The high, red-and-black rider’s seat complements the sporty, two-tone passenger seat and matches the red protector extensions, and black grilles in front of the radiators and auxiliary headlamps provide protection. Smaller sport windshield and grab handles emphasize the Trophy’s sporty character, while large radiator cowls with mounts for the cowl bags and aluminum tank trays also add robust docking elements.

2024 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Option 719 Karakorum

The Option 719 Karakorum version is finished in an exclusive Aurelius Green metallic matt color, with gold-colored lines, rims, and bars, and the Shadow milled parts for an upscale look. In addition to the small aluminum radiator cowls and the protective grille on the auxiliary headlights, this variant also includes black, heated rider and passenger comfort seats, a luggage rack, and the small Sport windshield.

Option 719 adds heated seats, gold rims, and a slick green metallic paint job. (BMW/)

2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Specs

MSRP:	N/A
Engine:	DOHC, air/liquid-cooled, four-stroke flat twin w/ BMW ShiftCam
Displacement:	1,300cc
Bore x Stroke:	106.5 x 73.0mm
Compression Ratio:	13.3:1
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/shaft
Claimed Horsepower:	145 hp @ 7,750 rpm
Claimed Torque:	110 lb.-ft. @ 6,500 rpm
Fuel System:	Electronic intake manifold injection
Clutch:	Wet, slipper function; hydraulic activation
Frame:	Steel sheet metal; aluminum subframe
Front Suspension:	BMW Motorrad EVO Telelever, central spring strut; 8.3 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	BMW Motorrad EVO paralever; 8.7 in. travel
Front Brake:	4-piston radial calipers, dual 310mm discs w/ BMW Motorrad ABS Pro
Rear Brake:	2-piston floating caliper, 285mm disc w/ BMW Motorrad ABS Pro
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Spoke; 19 x 3.00 in. / 17 x 4.50 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	120/70R-19 / 170/60R-17
Rake/Trail:	26.2/4.7 in.
Wheelbase:	60.4 in.
Seat Height:	34.3–35.0 in.
Fuel Capacity:	7.9 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight:	593 lb.
Contact:	bmwmotorcycles.com

Source

[boboneleg]

[Buckster]

That’s a really ugly bike. That area with the front boinger isn’t going to fill up with crap at all is it?

[Pedro]

6 minutes ago, Buckster said:

That’s a really ugly bike. That area with the front boinger isn’t going to fill up with crap at all is it?

I don't think that is much of an issue. It hasn't been in previous versions, but then again this is a front heavy bike so usually not the best thing for riding in mud.

I don't understand why they made the front so boxy, though. The gas tank is a similar chape and size than the one before, and the radiators seem to be similar too, that might be just a big empty are inside those plastic panels in front of the side roundel. Looking at it from the side, from the engine back it looks a lot less like a BMW and a lot like a Crosstourer, which is a fine bike but not the same think.

It is a really ugly bike, and from what I've seen online, it is also a very difficult to operate thing, similar to a smartphone on wheels.

 

[Buckster]

Just now, Pedro said:

 

I don't understand why they made the front so boxy, though. The gas tank is a similar chape and size than the one before, and the radiators seem to be similar too, that might be just a big empty are inside those plastic panels in front of the side roundel. Looking at it from the side, from the engine back it looks a lot less like a BMW and a lot like a Crosstourer, which is a fine bike but not the same think.

It is a really ugly bike, and from what I've seen online, it is also a very difficult to operate thing, similar to a smartphone on wheels.

 

They are trying to make the engine look less obvious.

[Pedro]

1 minute ago, Buckster said:

They are trying to make the engine look less obvious.

You think? It would be less obvious anyway, though, as it's narrower than the previous one.

[Buckster]

It should be good for picking up leaves in the autumn.

[Sir Fallsalot]

Looks like the Autobots gang raped the 1250 and this is the abomination that got shat out