The BMW F750 GS and the F850 GS have been launched at Rs12.2 lakh and Rs13.7 lakh (ex-showroom, India) respectively. These new models feature sharper styling, new technology, a monocoque frame and a bigger 853cc, twin-cylinder engine – an upgrade from their 798cc predecessors, the F700 GS and F800 GS.

The new 853cc parallel-twin engine is tuned to make different power figures in both bikes – 77hp and 83Nm of torque in the F750, and 85hp and 92Nm of torque in the F850. BMW suggests that the engine’s new 270-degree firing order lends it a purposeful engine note, which will be a positive departure from the typically hushed BMW aural package. Another big change comes in the form of a new monocoque frame with new suspension geometry and fuel tank position which has moved from the previous under-seat position to a conventional location behind the bars.

The F750 GS and F850 GS get a new fork (an upside-down 43mm one in the case of the F850 and a 41mm telescopic unit for the F750). Rear suspension duties are handled by an aluminium double-sided swing-arm and a monoshock. BMW’s electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) is optional on either model. Both come with ABS, ASC, and ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes as standard. Other optional equipment includes full-LED lighting and a multi-functional instrument cluster.

Deliveries for both bikes will commence by mid-2018 and both are CBU imports. The two models will compete with the Triumph Tiger 800 (and its internationally updated version, soon to arrive in India). At present, the entry-level GS models will be the mostaffordable bikes in the German manufacturer’s current line-up for India.Meanwhile, the G 310 R and G 310 GS have been confirmed for launch towards the end of 2018.