2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure Review Highlights Performance, Comfort, and Touring Versatility

The 2025 BMW R 1300 GS Adventure is a significant upgrade in the adventure touring motorcycle segment. With a 7.9-gallon fuel tank, an optional automatic transmission, and a distinct boxy design, it raises the bar for long-distance travel and off-road performance. BMW has made it clear that this is not just an enhanced version of the regular R 1300 GS, but an entirely new model with added features, including a new subframe for increased payload capacity and more room for both rider and pillion.

The Adventure maintains the lightweight frame of the R 1300 GS but has an updated suspension to accommodate its larger size and additional weight. With revised settings in the EVO suspension, the front and rear travel are now 8.2 and 8.6 inches respectively. Additionally, the bike offers more crash protection and weather resistance, ensuring it can handle tough conditions during long journeys. The fuel tank, almost eight gallons, offers a claimed range of 380 miles, making the Adventure ideal for extended rides.

There are four different models, each with several customization options, and for the first time in GS Adventure history, BMW offers an optional automatic gearbox through its Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) technology. The launch event in Andalusia allowed riders to test both the manual and automatic versions of the bike, with two models on display: the GSA TE ESA, priced at $27,395, and the Trophy at $31,225. The base model starts at $22,745.

In terms of design, the R 1300 GS Adventure is unmistakable with its massive size. The seat height is slightly higher than the standard GS, ranging from 34.3 to 35 inches, with the Trophy variant featuring an even taller seat. However, BMW offers an optional adaptive vehicle height control system that lowers the seat by 1.2 inches when the bike is at a standstill, making it more accessible. Despite its size, the Adventure feels remarkably balanced at slow speeds, with its low center of mass providing confidence for new riders.

The R 1300 GS Adventure’s 6.5-inch TFT display is user-friendly and includes a navigation wheel on the left bar, making it easy to manage. The screen is electronically adjustable, and the bike comes with Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) and cruise control as standard. There are four base riding modes, but riders can also opt for up to seven modes with additional features like Dynamic Pro and Enduro Pro. BMW has included several advanced rider aids such as Active Cruise Control, Lane Change Warning, and Rear End Collision Warning, which enhance safety and convenience.

The bike’s test models were equipped with a variety of optional accessories. These included a Style package with sports screens, rally seat, and forged wheels for the Trophy variant, and a Premium package with adaptive height control and the automatic gearbox ASA for the TE model. Both bikes were fitted with off-road tires, such as the Metzeler Karoo 4 rubber, ideal for off-road adventures but still capable of handling on-road conditions. The Adventure handles off-road terrain superbly, with its suspension providing excellent control and balance.

Despite its size, the Adventure performs well off-road, with the large fuel tank not hindering movement much when standing on the footpegs. The Enduro and Enduro Pro modes allow for precise fueling and responsive handling, while rider aids like traction control and off-road ABS ensure stability and control even in challenging conditions. The 593-pound machine feels surprisingly nimble on dirt roads, and with a smooth throttle response, it gives the rider a sense of security and ease during off-road adventures.

On paved roads, the Adventure is equally impressive. The ride quality is soft in Road mode, offering comfort even on rough surfaces. Switching to Dynamic or Dynamic Pro mode provides a more taut and responsive ride, with better feedback from the tires and more stability at higher speeds. While the off-road tires do exhibit some movement on the road, the bike remains highly stable and easy to control. Its handling on the street is remarkable, though it requires more effort to push through tight curves compared to the standard GS.

The Adventure’s power comes from the same 1300cc boxer-twin engine as the regular R 1300 GS, delivering 143 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. The engine’s fueling is impeccable, and the bike offers a smooth and responsive ride. During the test, the bike was used for both off-road and long highway stretches, providing comfort and performance throughout. With a claimed range of 380 miles, the Adventure is designed for long-distance touring, with a fuel economy of around 41.6 mpg.

The R 1300 GS Adventure is a highly specialized machine that blends on-road and off-road performance seamlessly. It’s an impressive motorcycle, with excellent handling, comfort, and advanced technology that make it stand out in its category. BMW has succeeded in creating a bike that offers versatility without compromising on performance. Riders can choose from a range of accessories and packages to tailor the bike to their needs, making it a highly customizable and capable machine for adventure touring.