Drove: BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT

They didn't choose revolution, but we have evolution. The biggest novelty is an all-new engine that remains a four-valve-per-cylinder flat-twin engine that now has an asynchronous variable valve system. After the first few miles, I got a clear answer. The new BMW R 1250 GS, as well as its touring counterpart, the R 1250 RT, are without a doubt even better!

How to improve what is already good?

It would be very easy to make a mistake, but it is clear that BMW does not want to risk radical interventions. This is why it will be difficult for you to notice the visual differences between the 2019 and 2018 models. Apart from the valve cover on the engine, there are only color combinations that make this dividing line even clearer. I was able to test both models on a short drive through the Austrian town of Fuschl am See on country roads that go around an alpine lake. I was able to do a few kilometers on the GS on gravel road and loved it as the bike was equipped with an Enduro Pro (at an additional cost), which allows the electronics to optimize wheel contact with the ground during acceleration and braking. If the bike were shod with rough off-road tires, the joy would be even greater.

Otherwise, I mostly drove on asphalt, which was a little wet and cold in shady places in October, and I also had to watch out for the leaves that the trees threw on the road. But even here, safety is ensured by the latest safety electronics, which now, like what we know about cars, control the overall stability of the motorcycle as a kind of ESP. Automatic stability control is standard on both models, i.e. is part of the basic equipment and can be found under the ASC (Automatic Stability Control) label, which provides the best grip and safety. You will also find an automatic uphill brake as standard. Personally, I am worried about this device, and I prefer the brake and clutch control when starting, but obviously most riders like it because otherwise I doubt BMW will decide to install it in both models. Most of all, this will be delighted to everyone who is not easy to climb the mountain because of the short legs.

New, more powerful engine

We also covered part of our route very quickly. So I was able to test on a fast stretch that the new GS can easily hit 60 km / h from a leisurely 200 km / h when you have the gearbox in sixth gear. I didn't have to press anything other than the throttle, and the new liquid-air-cooled boxer accelerated consistently and decisively with deep bass without the slightest disturbing vibration or holes in the power curve. The feeling of speed is quite deceiving because motorcycles can develop speed with such ease. It was only when I looked at the otherwise very beautiful transparent gauges (the TFT screen is excellent, but optional) that I took a close look when I read the current cruise speed value.

Even though I was sitting on the HP version, that is, with a minimal windshield and an adventure helmet on my head, I was amazed at how easily the bike accelerates and cleaves through the air. This gives an exceptional sense of security and reliability in the prescribed manner and, above all, does not get tired.

The new RT shares the engine with the GS, so the driving experience is very similar here, but the difference is of course the seat position and good wind protection, as you can drive very far without feeling tired. The RT was equipped with a great sound system and cruise control, and the luxury was also represented by a large heated seat, large side shrouds and a windshield that you raise and lower with the touch of a button while driving, depending on how protected you are. ... from wind, cold or rain. ride.

New - new generation ESA front suspension.

Even a very fresh memory of a comparative test of large touring enduro bikes, when in the middle of summer the old GS won convincingly in the vicinity of Kochevye, served as a starting point for me, and I noticed the difference very clearly. As for the front suspension, the new suspension has corrected the front wheel feel that can be seen on both tarmac and rubble. The new generation ESA performs flawlessly and remains the standard for comfort and flexibility on two wheels when traveling alone or with a passenger and of course with all luggage.

Camshaft with two profiles

But the biggest innovation is the new engine, which now has an asynchronous dynamic adaptive valve system called BMW ShiftCam technology and is used on motorcycles for the first time ever. Variable valves are not new to motorsport, but BMW has come up with a solution. The camshaft has two profiles, one for low rpm and one for higher rpm where the profile is sharper for more power. The camshaft switches the intake valves with a pin that is activated according to the engine speed and load, which moves the camshaft and a different profile occurs. In practice, this means switching from 3.000 rpm to 5.500 rpm.

Shifting while driving is not detected, only the sound of the engine changes slightly, which provides a very good power and torque curve. Already at 2.000 rpm, the new boxer develops a torque of 110 Nm! The volume has become larger, now 1.254 cubic two-cylinder engines can produce a maximum power of 136 "horsepower" at 7.750 rpm and a whopping 143 Nm of torque at 6.250 rpm. I can say that now the engine has become even more convenient and easier to control. Thanks to clever improvements, there is a great engine in which you will absolutely not miss the horses. On paper, this is not the most powerful engine in its category, but it is impressive on the move because all the power is so easy to use. The new GS now has two engine modes as standard, and the Pro program (dynamic, dynamic pro, enduro, enduro pro) is available at an additional cost, allowing individual adjustments and adjustments via dynamic traction control adapted to ABS and assistants. when braking DBC and starting assistants. It is equipped with LED lighting as standard.

The base R 1250 GS is yours for € 16.990.

The good news is that both motorcycles are already on sale, the price is already known and did not increase in proportion to engine modifications. The base model costs 16.990 euros, but how you equip it, of course, depends on the thickness of the wallet and wishes.