MRW Issue 41

Switching between the multitude of riding
modes reveals significantly different
performance levels as with the 1250, however,
I generally only switched between Dynamic
Pro and Enduro Pro, and as always because
I have the mindset of a child, traction control
was always disabled, which can be done on
the fly via the new sub-menu button on the
LH handlebar switchgear. While we are on the
handlebars there is also a new start-up button
which I prefer to the 1250. Overall build quality is
still very much typical BMW, top-notch.
Despite sharing the same wheelbase as the
1250 at 1518.92mm, the bike feels lower to
the ground and longer, mainly thanks to all
the ergonomic changes for 2024. The riding
position is still typical GS, upright and comfy
but different. The stance feels different as if the
bars are further forward and wider. You will be
happy to know that the overall GS charm and
comfort are still present, it’s still a suit and tie but
instead of slippery smart shoes, it now boasts
the latest Nike trainers, making it more versatile
and nimble than before. That famous GS turning
circle is also still very much present making. The
1300GS gives that sit-in rather than sit-ontop
vibe and is now so much easier to move around
the cock pit which is beneficial when riding
aggressively.
On the road, the difference between the old
proven ball-joint Telelever and the new Evo
setup might not be immediately apparent in the
overall feel and ride quality of the GS. However,
the system operates smoothly, offering superb
suspension adjustment easily done via the
dashboard which comes in handy on diverse
and changing terrain. Transitioning from hard to
touring comfort is easily done, more so than with
the old 1250 model, however, the hard setting
still doesn’t quite feel stiff enough in my opinion.
I did manage to bottom the 1300 out over rough
terrain and overjumps but this is to be expected
on a bike like this.
During acceleration, the new rear suspension
and longer swingarm effectively translate every
request for performance into action without
hesitation. The chassis maintains smooth
tracking when power is applied on the street,
evoking a wide grin from my end as the 1300
responds eagerly and abruptly and will challenge
most cars and bikes on a robot-to-robot dash.
Yet the suspension isn’t without issues and
can be quite soft even on the stiffest settings at
times, especially during aggressive cornering
or over large speed bumps—it still delivers an
outstanding ride quality that’s difficult to criticize
and typical of a GS. As smooth as a baby’s
bottom as the saying goes!