THE BMW R 1250 GS (better known as the GS 1250) has garnered widespread acclaim worldwide, and delving into numerous reviews confirmed its dominance in the adventure bike realm.
With the chance to test ride the bike courtesy of owner Ramesh Arunasalam, I embarked on a journey to uncover why it has a strong following.
From the moment I laid eyes on the GS 1250, its design captivated me.
There's an undeniable allure to its adventurous aesthetic, characterised by a commanding presence and rugged yet sleek features.
The trademark beak, the body contour, large windshield, coupled with the iconic GS headlight, set the stage for an epic adventure.
The Triple Black variant, adorned with hand and engine guards, exudes masculinity, while the single-sided swingarm adds a touch of finesse.
Comfort is paramount during long rides, and the R 1250 GS excels in this aspect.
The seat, spacious and plush, provides unparalleled comfort even for extended journeys.
There was ample room for my rear end to move around and its adjustability ensures a tailored fit without the need for tools.
Yet, for riders under 1.75m, the seat height might pose a challenge, although adjustments can mitigate this concern.
Similarly, the pillion seat offers a comfortable ride.
Venturing onto the open highway onboard the R 1250 GS is a revelation in itself.
The bike's performance truly shines as it effortlessly eats up kilometres of tarmac.
With its powerful 1,250cc boxer engine, the bike delivers ample torque and horsepower to propel me forward with no holds barred.
One of the most notable aspects of highway riding on the R 1250 GS is the sense of stability and confidence it instils.
During my ride from Kuala Lumpur to Karak town, the bike's robust construction, combined with its well-tuned suspension, ensured a smooth and controlled ride even at high speeds.
Whether cruising on the Road for optimal fuel efficiency or unleashing the full power in Dynamic mode, the GS handles with precision and poise.
Navigating corners in Karak on the R 1250 GS is a dynamic and exhilarating experience, thanks to its advanced engineering and thoughtful design.
Whether tackling tight hairpin bends or sweeping curves, the R 1250 GS exhibits remarkable agility, stability, and control.
It feels natural, I only have to steer the handle and the rest falls in place by itself.
In short, the adventure bike becomes an extension of me. Within few hours of ride, we understood each others purpose and need.
The R 1250 GS' handling prowess stems from a combination of factors, starting with its chassis design.
The bike's robust frame provides a solid foundation, ensuring stability and confidence-inspiring control, even when I was pushing the limits through corners.
Equally crucial is the suspension system, which strikes a perfect balance between comfort and performance.
The dynamic suspension adjusts damping and spring rates in real time, adapting to changing road conditions and my riding style.
This ensures that the bike remains planted and composed through corners, absorbing bumps and undulations without compromising stability.
Furthermore, the wide handlebars offer excellent leverage, allowing me to confidently lean into corners and maintain precise control throughout the maneuver and effortlessly carve through twists and turns with precision.
On high speeds, the tall wide windshield is a lifesaver.
It effectively deflects the wind from causing rider fatigue and is very useful on long rides.
The best part, I am able to adjust the height of the windshield while on the fly without any fuss.
Underneath its adventure facade lies a powerhouse of an engine, seamlessly blending performance and versatility.
The 1,250cc twin-cylinder boxer engine delivers an exhilarating ride, with ample torque across the rev range.
Whether cruising on the highway or overtaking with ease, the R 1250 GS offers a thrilling experience.
Meanwhile, while I was ascending into the highland of Genting Highlands right to the top, the R 1250 GS reveals its true versatility and prowess.
Its capable engine effortlessly conquers steep inclines, delivering smooth power delivery and responsive throttle response.
Whether I was navigating tight switchbacks or cruising along scenic mountain roads, the bike inspires confidence with its agile handling and precise cornering abilities.
Despite its weight, steering the R 1250 GS is surprisingly manageable, thanks to well-distributed weight and ergonomic design.
Parking lot manoeuvres are effortless, except for backing up from idle positions.
Furthermore, the advanced braking system inspires confidence in me when entering corners, enabling swift and efficient speed reduction.
The Brembo brakes, coupled with ABS, deliver precise and predictable stopping power, enabling later braking and enhanced control, ultimately elevating cornering performance.
As a complete package, the GS 1250 leaves little to be desired.
From creature comforts to practical rider aids, it embodies the epitome of adventure biking.
Riding modes cater to varied preferences, while smartphone connectivity adds a modern touch.
Ramesh with his R 1250 GS.
The digital instrument cluster provides essential information at a glance, complemented by ergonomic button placements and keyless ignition.
Owning a R 1250 GS isn't just about owning a bike; it's about embracing an unparalleled adventure.
While it is practical for daily city commutes and long journeys, its allure is undeniable.
Like many adventure bike enthusiasts, I would love to consider having one.
In the end, the RM127,500 R 1250 GS isn't just a bike but an experience worth cherishing.
What is that not to like about this machine?
SPECIFICATIONS
BMW R 1250 GS
Engine: 1,254 cc, Boxer twin, air/liquid cooled
Maximum power: 136hp at 7,750rpm
Maximum torque: 143Nm at 6,250rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front BMW Telelever with single shock, electronically adjustable with 7.5-inch travel; rear suspension BMW Paralever with single shock, electronically adjustable with 7.9-inch travel
Brakes: Front dual discs with 305mm floating rotors, 4-piston calipers and linked ABS; rear single disc with 276mm rotor, 2-piston floating caliper and linked ABS
Features: Keyless Start, Hill Start Control, ABS, Traction Control, Automatic Stability Control, Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), Keyless, Cruise Control, Riding Modes (Eco, Road, Rain, Dynamic, Dynamic pro, Enduro and Enduro Pro)
Fuel capacity: 20 litres
Wet weight: 249kg
Price: RM127,500 (without registration, road tax and insurance)
