BMW has unwrapped a near-production-ready concept bike at EICMA that offers a glimpse at a new small GS slated to debut next year. Named the Concept F 450 GS, the compact bike boasts a design that closely mirrors the larger R 1300 GS, and is said to bridge a gap between the BMW G 310 GS and F 800/900 GS platforms.

Powered by a newly-developed powerplant from BMW, the F 450 GS’s inline twin engine features a “never-before-used ignition offset” that the Bavarian manufacturer says is particularly characterful and eager to rev. Conforming to the A2 class, the engine pumps out a claimed 48 hp while providing optimal torque even at low revs. With weight savings in mind, the powerplant uses lightweight materials, such as magnesium.

BMW is keeping detailed specs on the chassis side under wraps but they did share that the new bike is equipped with a fully-adjustable USD fork and a shock absorber with load-dependent damping, drawing on technology from rally and enduro sport. The bike rolls on 19”/17” cross-spoke wheels and tips the scale at a claimed 386 lbs (175 kg).

“What was particularly important to us in the development of the new BMW Concept F 450 GS was to achieve the best handling for this segment and combine it with strong performance and optimal accessibility. The riding pleasure on-road and off-road is a top priority for this A2 BMW GS,” says Sepp Mächler, Product Manager.

Inspired by the larger sibling, the BMW R 1300 GS, the Concept F 450 GS doesn’t neglect safety and functionality. Relevant features range from BMW Motorrad ABS Pro (dependent on lean angle) to a performance brake, to freely configurable riding modes. 

Thanks to BMW Connectivity and the 6.5-inch TFT display, the motorcycle can seamlessly interact with your smartphone and other accessories.

So what could we expect in a production version? Johann Simon, vehicle project manager of the Concept F 450 GS, explains: “No compromises for sure. Following the very sporty off-road focus of the Concept F 450 GS, we will implement the bike as close as possible to this concept. We will only adjust the seat height for better accessibility and easier handling. As an alternative to the cross-spoke wheels, lightweight but high-strength cast aluminum wheels in the same dimensions are also conceivable.”

While it’s still uncertain how much of the concept will translate into the final production model, it appears that BMW is set to deliver a more accessible option that blends the aesthetic appeal and performance of its high-end offerings. A torquey, small-displacement twin that is also smooth on the highway could garner a lot of interest from those looking for a versatile adventure bike that is not only easy to manage on the trail but travel friendly as well. Sounds promising so far.