2021 BMW R 1250 GS unveiled

BMW Motorrad has revealed the 2021 R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure.

• 2021 BMW R 1250 GS gets new colour options
• List of standard features has been updated
• Powered by a Euro 5 compliant 1254cc Boxer engine 

BMW has updated its flagship adventure motorcycle for 2021 and the changes are limited to a set of new colours and updated list of standard features, across variants.

2021 BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure: What’s new?

The 2021 BMW R 1250 GS range is available with new colour options. The standard R 1250 GS is available in Triple Black and Solid White paint schemes. The R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, is also available in Triple Black and a new ice grey colour. The BMW white, red and blue Rallye colours are also available.

Special BMW GS 40th anniversary colour options

If the new colour options don't float your boat, the BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure are also available with the special 40th Anniversary paint scheme. This 'Edition 40 Years GS' black and yellow paint work commemorates 40 years of the iconic BMW GS motorcycles, and takes inspiration from the BMW R 100 GS.

Updated features on the 2021 BMW R 1250 GS

The 2021 BMW R 1250 GS range gets a wide array of features as standard equipment across the range. The list includes Dynamic Traction Control for better control, especially in tricky situations. The company has also added an Eco mode as standard, which moderately adjusts torque and power delivery in order to maximise fuel efficiency.

Another handy feature that comes with the BMW R 1250 GS series is the BMW Integral ABS Pro system. In essence, it is a type of combi-braking system that engages both the front and rear brakes simultaneously, when the front brake lever is pulled in. The system works in conjunction with the six-axis IMU to adjust braking performance, based on whether the motorcycle is being ridden on-road or off-road.

Other notable features include optional adaptive cornering lights, with a headlight reflector that's able to swivel by 30 degree and light up the corner. The height of the headlamp beam can also be adjusted in case there is a pillion or luggage onboard.

BMW has also upgraded the optional Hill Start Control Pro system that detects the gradient of the hill and adjusts the brake force accordingly. It's a feature that keeps the motorcycle from rolling behind while starting off from a hill. It is especially useful on loose surfaces or with a full set of luggage.

Cleaner powertrain

For 2021, the updated BMW R 1250 GS range is powered by a Euro 5 compliant, 1254cc and boxer engine. The twin-cylinder engine develops 136hp at 7,750rpm and 143Nm at 6,250rpm. The engine uses BMW's ShiftCam technology, the company's version or variable valve timing. It improves combustion and refinement, while delivering more power across the rev band.

Price and Availability

The difference between a standard BMW R 1250 GS and the 40th anniversary edition is roughly £1990 or Rs. 2 lakh, in international markets. We expect a similar price gap when the motorcycles come to India. Speaking of which, BMW India is yet to confirm the launch dates of the 2021 R 1250 GS range in India. Our estimate is that the company may launch the motorcycle early next year.