Test environment and test procedures
The Supermoto track in Bad Fischau offers an ideal test environment to evaluate response, chassis and tire performance. The route includes tight curves, variable radii and short connecting lanes that simulate a wide range of driving situations. This standardized testing process provides valuable insight into engine performance, even if it sometimes seems unusual to test street-oriented bikes in such a way.
First impressions and driving experience
The BMW R 1300 GS caused emotions from the start. The journey was a wild one where the machine impressed but also challenged with its mechanical brutality. The report described the feeling when accelerating as intense and powerful, similar to the sporty feel of the KTM SuperDuke. The R 1300 GS shows its remarkable performance especially in tight skin, with the electronic driving aids and the electronic chassis trying to keep the power under control. Despite these efforts, you can feel the huge torque on the way out of the corner, which propels the machine forward and ensures an exciting but also intense driving experience.
Driving and handling characteristics
The R 1300 GS is equipped with wide handlebars and an upright seating position, which enables precise and convenient control in tight corners. The weight of the machine is noticeable in fast corners, but the chassis and tires ensure that the motorcycle remains easy to control. The Dunlop Sport Smart TT tires were a great choice for the hot and dry conditions during the test. When braking, the rear of the machine becomes relatively light, causing the rear wheel to slide in a controlled manner. This requires the operator to have a certain level of skill and confidence to use the machine to its full potential. The test at the Pannoniaring has already shown that you can be the fastest in Dynamic Pro mode. But then you have to completely retreat to security and stability. Good pilots will be able to handle it. Martin Bauer, for example, enjoyed the ride with the rear wheel slipping. For Nils, however, the slipping rear wheel looked more threatening.
Brutally! But also quickly? BMW R 1300 GS!
Turning the best times, the motorcycle feels brutal and demanding overall. The torque sets in quickly, significant load changes can be felt in the saddle and the heavy weight of the motorcycle makes it difficult to master situations at the limit with precision. Overall, the motorcycle offers great performance, but in the saddle it will not be easy for you at the limits. For example, the advantage of sporty tires can hardly be achieved. Because it’s other areas of the motorcycle that set the limit. Overall, it’s surprising how rough and wild the GS presents itself on the race track. It doesn’t look like a touring stage motorcycle – but like a brutal beast with a lot of movement in the chassis. But to reach the top, some calm and mechanical precision would be required. The gear changes, braking and acceleration maneuvers together create much more turbulence in the saddle than with other motorcycles. In this regard, the motorcycle will complete good lap times but will not set a best time. We look forward to the video on the 1000PS TV with the lap time evaluation.
Technical details and conclusion: BMW R 1300 GS
The BMW R 1300 GS is powered by a 1300 cc boxer engine that delivers 145 hp at 7750 rpm and an impressive 149 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. The liquid-air-cooled engine has four valves per cylinder, with power transmitted through a six-speed gearbox and shaft drive. The chassis consists of a Telelever with 190 mm of travel at the front and a Paralever made of aluminum at the rear with an adjustable monoshock and 200 mm of travel. The braking system includes two 310 mm discs with radially mounted four-piston brake calipers at the front and a 285 mm disc with two-piston floating calipers at the rear. The BMW R 1300 GS is an impressive machine that plays and delivers adrenaline on the road and on demanding routes. It offers a combination of performance, handling and electronic aids that make it a versatile and exciting motorcycle. Despite its image as a touring enduro, the R 1300 GS proves to be an interesting choice for sports use as well.