SA Launch BMW R1250gs & Adventure

Having been on a number of BMW GS launches in the past, you get used to the level of advancement one can expect on the next model.

- Gavin Morton

The international launch took place 10 weeks ago and for some reason BMW Motorrad SA had released stock to the their authorised Dealers who in turn had delivered a number of these motorcycles into the market by the time we had the privilege to ride them.

Bike SA had already published Sir Alan Cathcart’s review on the BMW 1250 GS and BMW 1250 GS Adventure. With this in mind I am certainty not going to bore you with all the technical details but will just give my honest opinions and views of these bikes that I had the pleasure to ride.

An early start with a 7 am flight from Johannesburg to Durban and in true BMW Motorrad style, I felt like a Government VIP as we were whisked from the airport in a fleet of X class BMW’s and promptly delivered to the Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga. We were served a lavish breakfast followed by a presentation of the new models. It was all very interesting but nothing new as we already had feedback from friends that had purchased the bike. We were introduce to Chris Modise, the new National Sales Manager for BMW Motorrad, who took us through the new features of the range.

The 1250 Boxer motor has not changed much over the years, but it has been refined over time. They have increased the capacity from 1200cc to 1250cc which has increased the horse power from 125 to 136 - but the most significant change comes in the form of the torque increase. Listening to just how this has been achieved is all very interesting and the new variable valve opening mechanism is how this has been achieved. Very interesting if all the tech impresses you but what has it done to the ride?

After the presentation, we were all given a bike to ride for the day. I chose to ride the R1250GS Adventure HP first - that classic colour scheme is just awesome! I personally would take a bit of time getting used to the bling gold rims.