After months of speculation and leaked photos, BMW has officially announced details on the upcoming R1250GS adventure bike. The new GS model features an improved boxer engine for an additional increase in power across the entire speed range, improved emissions and fuel consumption, as well as a smoother ride.

At the heart of the new GS is a gruntier 1,254cc engine (previously 1,170cc) putting out 136 hp and 105 ft-lb of torque. The engine also uses Shiftcam Technology which enables variation of the valve timings and valve stroke on the intake side. The intake camshafts are further designed for asynchronous opening of the two intake valves, resulting in a swirl of the incoming mixture that provides more effective combustion. The engine also features an optimized oil supply, twin-jet injection valves and a new exhaust system.

The R1250GS HP style variant includes a white rallye color scheme, golden spoked wheels, flat seat and short windscreen.

ASC, and Hill Start Control as Standard

There are two ride modes available as standard to adapt the motorcycle to individual rider preferences. The standard ASC (Automatic Stability Control) offers improved traction and riding safety. The Hill Start Control is also a standard feature on both models, providing braking when stopped on an incline without having to hold the foot or hand brakes.

Additional Riding Modes

“Riding Modes Pro” is now available as an optional equipment item, featuring additional riding modes such as Dynamic Traction Control DTC, “Dynamic Pro” and “Enduro Pro”. DTC enables even more efficient and safe acceleration, especially in banking position.

In addition, the new Dynamic Brake Control DBC provides additional safety when braking by avoiding unintentional accelerator activation. By means of intervention in the engine control, drive torque is reduced during braking so as to make full use of the braking power at the rear wheel. This keeps the motorcycle stable and shortens the braking distance.

Connectivity

The new BMW R1250GS now has the “Connectivity” feature as standard equipment, including a 6.5-inch full-color TFT screen. In conjunction with the standard BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller, this means the rider can access vehicle and connectivity functions swiftly and conveniently.

Ensuring the fastest possible response in the event of an accident or emergency, the optional equipment item “Intelligent Emergency Call” summons assistance to the scene as quickly as possible.

Style Variants

A smoother, more-powerful engine is the primary update for the BMW R1250GS, while the chassis remains mostly unchanged besides a few goodies on the technology side. Other than that, there are two new style variants being offered for 2019. One is an HP white ‘Rallye’ version with golden spoked wheels, short windscreen, flat seat, and an optional longer-travel suspension. Another is a more touring-oriented ‘Exclusive’ version with cast wheels.

The “Exclusive” style variant includes cast wheels for riders that prefer a more touring-oriented option.

The new BMW R1250GS will be making an appearance at Intermot in Cologne and is expected to hit showrooms as a 2019 model. Pricing has not yet been announced by BMW.

BMW R1250GS Specs Released

• ENGINE: 1,254cc boxer twin (previously 1,170 cc)
• HORSEPOWER: 136 hp @7750rpm (previously 125 hp)
• TORQUE: 105 ft-lb (previously 92 ft-lb)
• SEAT HEIGHT: 850mm/870mm
• TANK: 5.3 gallons (20 liters)
• WET WEIGHT: 549 lbs (249 kg) (previously 538 lbs)