+ All the important stuff is epic
– Electronic overload ; long gearshift ; no radiator guards
as Adaptive Ride Height and heated seats . Yes , it ’ s an expensive bike , but , crikey , you really do get all the bells and whistles to show for your hard-earned .
THE SKINNY So , what is the upshot ? Well , all the genuinely important stuff is awesome and makes the R1300GS a masterpiece and worthy successor at the top of the BMW boxer adventure range . The engine , chassis , suspension and handling are epic on road . The weather protection is top shelf , the heated grips fantastic and the electric screen is a nice touch . Off road the 1300 is okay , but not top of the class , maybe third or fourth . The electronic overload is my only area of concern , but of course plenty of riders love all that stuff . If you do , you ’ ll love it . However , we hear that BMW Motorrad NZ has a paired-back GS with less electronics , fewer bells , less whistles and a more affordable access point coming soon for those who want the boxer experience without the tech or riders who like to throw their bikes around in the bush , just like the original designers intended . Watch this space .
KIWI RIDER 69