Comparison: BMW R 1250 GS vs. R 1300 GS

Having ridden BMW GS models for more than 20 years, it’s difficult to overstate the massive number of changes in the 2024 R 1300 GS. More than redesigned, the legendary GS platform has been reimagined in the 1300.

Rather than an attempt to improve on the engineering of previous models, the “Spirit of GS” tagline seems to have become the central design blueprint. As a result, an entirely new bike has emerged.

Go Slow to Know

When moving from the R 1250 GS to the R 1300 GS, it’s vastly easier to list what has not changed versus what has. The only familiar-looking parts I’ve been able to find between the two bikes so far are a few of the switches—and even most of those are connected to new features on the 1300.

Virtually everything on the 1300 is a completely new design, from scratch. Before diving into the details, a walking-pace lap around any parking lot can help grasp some of the differences between the two bikes.

Even in the low position, the 1300’s seat is a bit higher. At first, this gives you the impression the bike could potentially be more ungainly to handle in slower and tighter situations, but input on the grips immediately reveals a much lighter steering feel when compared to the 1250.

Plus, the seating position on the 1300 is farther forward, offering more leverage and control over the bike to riders of all heights.

A Customizable Environment

Speaking of rider heights, a unique foot peg design on the 1300 offers three-quarters of an inch of vertical adjustment between two positions with a single T-50 Torx bolt. The handlebar has predefined markings to aid in repositioning for on-road and off-road riding.