BMW’s rollout of the next‑generation R1300GS in 2024 took a turn few expected, arriving lighter and more compact than the smaller‑displacement 1250 it replaced. The following year, the R1300GS Adventure joined the lineup with a new look and even more touring and off‑road focused upgrades designed for riders pushing deeper into remote terrain. Yet even with the updates, the 1300 GS platform carried over several vulnerabilities and still had room to improve its long-range versatility. 

Black Dog Cycle Works — long known for building some of the toughest ADV armor in the business — has stepped in with a complete lineup of protection and rugged luggage solutions engineered specifically for riders looking to confidently take their big boxers to the back of beyond. From a redesigned skid plate and multiple rear rack options to ergo and lighting improvements, the Idaho‑based aftermarket parts manufacturer now offers an extensive list of mods to ensure these machines can withstand the kind of punishment typical on long-range adventures off the beaten path.

Most components in the catalog are interchangeable between the BMW R1300GS and R1300GSA. However, the rear rack and pillion rack differ between the two bikes due to their unique rear‑deck designs. Read on for more details about BDCW’s full lineup of products designed to improve the backcountry capability of the BMW R1300GS/GSA.

Ultimate Skid Plate V2

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The R1300’s new engine layout and revised exhaust routing required a fresh approach to underbody protection, and Black Dog’s V2 skid plate reflects that with a design built around laser-cut 3/16‑inch 5052 aluminum, with a ‘Shok-Blok’ to help disperse energy. Unlike many OEM and aftermarket plates that bolt directly to the engine, BDCW’s design is frame‑mounted, isolating impacts and preventing case damage — a critical advantage on a bike that carries significant mass off‑road. Designed to fit both the GS and GSA, the plate extends farther rearward than the OEM unit to eliminate the need for a separate centerstand bash plate, while a smooth bottom surface and countersunk hardware help the bike slide over obstacles instead of hanging up on them. (MSRP $449)

Cylinder Guards

Like beemers of the past, the new boxer engine uses thin valve covers that save weight but are vulnerable to cracking under impact, even during low‑speed drops or rock strikes. Black Dog’s cylinder guards use 3/16‑inch 5052 aluminum plates secured to the OEM crash bars, creating a broad sliding surface that protects while adding very little bulk. The guards are laser‑cut with machined slots to reduce weight and promote airflow. Countersunk stainless hardware keeps the profile smooth, preventing the guards from catching on ruts or roots during a slide. A welcome bit of insurance for riders who push their bikes into rocky terrain where a cracked valve cover can end a trip instantly. (MSRP $140)

Radiator Guards

With BMW moving to dual side‑mounted radiators, the R1300 gains cooling efficiency but loses protection, as the spread-out radiators now sit more in the line of fire. Black Dog’s radiator guards use forward‑angled (rather than side-angled) aluminum louvers that deflect rocks and debris downward while maintaining strong airflow, a design philosophy carried over from BDCW’s R1250 and R1200 systems. The guards are easy to install without removing the plastic radiator shrouds and their rigid construction prevents side‑impact deformation that can pinch or puncture radiator fins. Powder‑coated for durability, they offer lightweight protection for one of the bike’s most critical components and fit both GS and GSA models. (MSRP $165)

Platform Footpegs V2

For riders who prefer a flatter, more neutral platform, the V2 Platform Pegs deliver a broad, stable surface and excellent traction ideal for long‑distance touring and mixed‑terrain riding. Milled from aircraft aluminum, they offer a smoother profile than BDCW’s Traction Pegs while still providing excellent boot grip. At 2.5” wide by 4.5” long, their stance improves comfort during long highway stretches and reduces pressure points during extended standing sections, making them a strong option for riders who split time between pavement and dirt. (MSRP $249)

Traction Footpegs V2

BDCW’s Traction Footpegs V2 utilize the same shape and size as the company’s popular Platform Footpegs, but add enhancements for wet weather, turning traction up a notch for riders tackling more technical terrain. They are a major upgrade over the R1300’s stock units, offering a significantly larger platform with aggressive replaceable traction teeth for secure footing in mud, loose dirt or snow. Milled from aircraft-grade aluminum, the V2 design moves the peg position ½ inch rearward, improving shift and brake lever clearance and giving riders a more natural standing posture. Deep mud‑clearing voids help prevent crud buildup, while the wide platform distributes pressure more evenly across the boot sole, reducing fatigue on long days. (MSRP $259)

Traction Passenger Footpegs

Two‑up riders benefit from a larger, more supportive platform that improves stability during off‑road riding. Black Dog’s passenger pegs use the same traction‑focused design as the rider pegs, giving passengers more secure footing and reduced fatigue during long days in the saddle. The increased surface area and improved grip are especially helpful during technical sections where the passenger’s ability to stay planted can influence the bike’s balance. Designed to fit both the R1300GS and GSA, they offer a comfort upgrade over the small stock units. (MSRP $274)

Bar Risers

Designed to improve standing ergonomics, Black Dog’s 40mm risers help reduce back strain and open up the cockpit for taller riders. Machined from billet aluminum and powder coated to match the OEM triple clamp finish, the risers maintain the stock cable lengths and preserve the factory bar bend, ensuring smooth steering and throttle response. On the R1300GS/GSA platform, the added height creates a more natural off-road posture during extended standing sections, making technical terrain easier to manage. (MSRP $145)

HEX EZ‑CAN Accessory Manager

Modern ADV bikes rely heavily on electrical accessories, and the R1300GS and GSA are no exception. The Mojave edition of the HEX EZ‑CAN allows riders to add auxiliary lights, air horns, GPS units, heated gear, and other accessories without cutting into the factory harness. It provides programmable circuits, fault protection, and seamless CANbus integration, making it the cleanest and safest way to expand the bike’s electrical capabilities. The Mojave unit works on both GS and GSA models. (MSRP $229)

Rigid Industries Auxiliary Light Kit

For riders looking to extend their visibility well beyond the reach of the R1300’s stock headlight, Black Dog offers a robust auxiliary lighting package built around Rigid Industries’ LED units. Mounted cleanly to the bike using BDCW’s own 1‑inch engine‑bar clamps, riders can choose between two light types: the Dually Side Shooter PRO, which throws a massive 7,100 lumens per light with a 120‑degree horizontal spread for unmatched ditch illumination, or the DOT/SAE‑certified fog lights, which produce 1,760 lumens each and offer a sharp beam cutoff that is friendly to oncoming traffic. Both options include a complete wiring harness, mounting brackets, and snap‑on amber covers that dramatically increase daytime visibility to other drivers.

The lights are built to withstand serious trail abuse and are backed by Rigid’s lifetime warranty. BDCW also offers multiple control options, including a motorcycle‑friendly Rigid pendant switch or integration with the HEX EZ‑CAN, allowing riders to manage the lights through the bike’s stock controls. For riders who frequently find themselves navigating dark backroads, wildlife‑dense regions, or remote two-track after sunset, this lighting package provides a dramatic improvement in both reach and peripheral visibility. (MSRP $624)

Rear Rack 

Due to the differences in the rear of the bike, the R1300GS and R1300GSA require different rear rack designs. Both versions are cut from ¼‑inch aluminum and feature oversized tie‑down points, multiple strap slots, and RotoPax compatibility, but each is shaped to match the geometry of its respective model. Both offer a larger, stronger, more versatile platform than the stock rear racks, which fall short if you’re trying to carry enough gear for an extended trip. (MSRP GS: $265; GSA: $225)

Pillion Rack 

Replacing the passenger seat with a flat cargo platform is a popular upgrade for long‑range travelers riding solo, and Black Dog offers pillion racks for both the GS and GSA. Each rack is shaped to match the unique rear‑deck geometry of its respective model and cut from ¼‑inch aluminum to provide a stable base for duffels, tool rolls, or any type of extra storage needs. Generous strap slots make it easy to secure awkward loads (e.g. firewood, broken parts, antlers), and the low profile 13” wide x 13” long platform design helps keep the center of gravity down. (MSRP GS: $265; GSA: $295)

Helo Pad Rear Rack (GSA Only)

Exclusive to the R1300GSA, the Helo Pad is a large versatile platform that covers both the passenger seat and rear rack areas. Its extended footprint (21” wide x 14” long) can carry a substantial amount of cargo, while the numerous tie‑down slots around the edges accommodate a wide range of packing styles. Cut from ¼‑inch aluminum and powder coated for a durable finish, the Helo Pad can be configured to carry a RotopaX container, as well as a WARN XT17 winch. Helo Pads are a great way to take advantage of the GSA’s unique ability to effortlessly handle larger loads, offering a stable foundation for bulky gear on long‑range expeditions. (MSRP $319)

Visit Black Dog’s website to check out the full line of armor and accessories for the R1300GS and R1300GSA.