[Laks]

I wonder how successful the R1300 GS has been worldwide and also in India given the predecessor, R1250 GS had a cult following. I don't see much review, ownership videos in YouTube beside the one that came out at the time of global launch. It appears this hasn't been very successful for BMW Motorrad - any thoughts?

[Sudarshan42]

Originally Posted by Turbojc

I just came across the news that TVS will be making the F 450 GS. Can anyone corroborate if this is indeed true? I haven’t come across any other sources quoting the same.

Attachment 2680081
(Source: Instagram)

If it is going to be made in India, then we’re definitely in for a treat, considering all the potential variations this powertrain platform could spawn . However, I don’t think it’ll be available for anything less than 5.5L on road though .

Cheers!

If this is true, and all fingers point at it being true (given that a 450cc range of motorcycles cannot be at the unaffordable end of the spectrum, and TVS seems to be their most viable partner)- then this is fantastic news for both BMW and TVS product lines about 5 years from now. Just bought a Speed 400, and this looks like an excellent upgrade choice should I need one. Good times ahead for this segment.

[Red Liner]

Originally Posted by Turbojc

I just came across the news that TVS will be making the F 450 GS. Can anyone corroborate if this is indeed true? I haven’t come across any other sources quoting the same.



Cheers!

TVS making this bike including the engine - Confirmed (months back).
Pricing: Unconfirmed and we are still a few months away from a commercial launch.

[JayPrashanth]

Originally Posted by abhiijithbhatn

Attachment 2679669
The 310GS riding posture is something special.

When I look at the F 450GS, I can’t help but feel BMW might've repeated KTM's mistake with the Adventure rider triangle.

The 310GS's true strength lies in its adventure geometry—it’s got that perfect triangle that lets you fly 8 feet off the ground and land like you’re gliding, no sweat, no stress. It’s pure off-road confidence.

Take a look at the KTM 390 Adventure and the BMW F 450GS. Honestly, I’m concerned they just won't match the comfort and readiness of the 310GS for real off-road action.
Attachment 2679670
Attachment 2679671

Sorry, but true 'adventure geometry' doesn't mean standing up straight but actually leaning forward and getting weight on the front end.

Cheers,

Jay

[mh09ad5578]

Looks tempting indeed. If priced reasonably it could be the BMW I finally own. Wow!

[ToThePoint]

A well designed modern re-interpretation of the G450x single that BMW used to sell in the past.

People showing interest should know this will be an enduro kind rather than a tourer.

[Senotrius]

Let's not get ahead of ourselves. This is BMW motorrad. They way they position their made in India bike should point to an unreasonable price for the upcoming parallel 450. They're using exotic materials for the engine as such. Let's expect an unrealistic 6-8lakh+ for this on-road. They're not KTM or Triumph (funnily) to bring attainable pricing for the technology/quality offered. Which is why I respect RE (not a fan), for still giving us the cheapest 600cc plus twin cylinder.

[Flyingdutchman]

Originally Posted by Senotrius

Which is why I respect RE (not a fan), for still giving us the cheapest 600cc plus twin cylinder.

RE is going bonkers, bringing out 650 edition of each and every bike they have on offer barring Himalayan. But I do understand platform limitations of new Himmy. 450 is lightweight and compact which is a prerequisite for entry level ADV's. Putting 650 twin on Himalayan would be too bulky and overweight. Apart from that, I am having high hopes for Tuareg 457. Based on the test mule, it looks promising. KTM's prepping new twin engine, Tuareg, BMW F450 exciting times ahead.

[pedrolourenco]

Originally Posted by CrAzY dRiVeR

BMW Motorrad has unveiled the near-production-ready BMW Concept F 450 GS at EICMA 2024 - which will be the new A2 license ADV from the brand designed to slot between the BMW G 310 and F 800/900.

Originally Posted by FlankerFury

I hope TVS builds it right here in India.

I'm pretty sure that's the plan. The 310 GS will probably be axed and the 310 engine platform will be left to TVS for their bikes.

400 - 500 seems to be the new entry level ADV bike engine size. We already have the Royal Enfield Himalayan 452, the KTM Adventure 390, the upcoming Aprilla Toureg 457, the Honda NX500, the rumoured Triumph Tiger 400 and the rumoured Hero X-Pulse 440.

[Boringrider]

Originally Posted by Senotrius

Let's not get ahead of ourselves. This is BMW motorrad. They way they position their made in India bike should point to an unreasonable price for the upcoming parallel 450.

Exactly what I feel about it. Can't guess the pricing but whatever the segment is that time, my guess is it will be too far fetched from that price level.

Originally Posted by Flyingdutchman

.Putting 650 twin on Himalayan would be too bulky and overweight.

RE can probably upgrade that engine to a proper 750 or 800 with higher output, so that the power to weight ratio is at least justifiable. Maybe they are already working on it, seeing the dual front discs on some of their spy shots.

There was also some news going on about KTM finally launching their big bike range in India, hopefully that brings some options. Wouldn't be waiting for Xpulse 440. Hero's launches and updates are too slow. They'll probably take another 5 years or so or maybe even never. Exciting choices ahead, that's for sure.

[abhiijithbhatn]

Originally Posted by JayPrashanth

Sorry, but true 'adventure geometry' doesn't mean standing up straight but actually leaning forward and getting weight on the front end.

In my defence, seven years ago, I owned a Dominar and modified it for adventure riding. I toured extensively in southern India, including some dedicated off-road trails. While your definition of geometry works well for off-road bikes, I would classify adventure riding as essentially a comfortable touring bike with the capabilities of a moderate off-road machine.

On my typical long rides, covering 600-800 km in a day, I would be standing on the foot pegs for about 40% of the time. The raised handlebar with upright standing posture provide comfort to the shoulders, chest, back, and, of course, buttocks.

Here’s a breakdown of what people typically identify as the best adventure bike riding postures:

Neutral Upright Stance
This is key for long-distance comfort. The rider sits upright, reducing strain on the back and providing a clear line of sight. The handlebars are at a height that prevents over-reaching, which helps maintain good posture during extended road stretches.

Standing Position
Critical for off-road sections. Standing on the foot pegs allows better control and balance over rough terrain. Handlebar risers help you stand comfortably without needing to bend excessively, preventing fatigue. The positioning should feel natural, allowing the rider to use their legs as suspension and maintain balance with ease.

Relaxed Arm Position
Whether seated or standing, the arms should have a slight bend with relaxed elbows. This helps absorb shocks while off-roading and keeps the rider from feeling overly tense. Handlebar height and angle adjustments can significantly contribute to this comfort.

Knee Grip and Weight Shifting
For more challenging off-road sections, gripping the tank with your knees can help stabilize the bike. The geometry of adventure bikes often makes this easy and comfortable, and the standing position complements weight shifting, allowing for responsive control.

Here are the riding postures that people online often consider ideal for adventure bikes.

KLR 650


Tenere


Tiger900


Many people consider the GS850 to be a better adventure bike than the GS900, which is now often regarded as more of a sports adventure bike.

Adventure bike enthusiasts typically buy these bikes with the intention of covering long distances comfortably, with the goal of reaching exotic off-road destinations that usually make up 10-20% of the trip.

[Red Liner]

Originally Posted by JayPrashanth

Sorry, but true 'adventure geometry' doesn't mean standing up straight but actually leaning forward and getting weight on the front end.

Cheers,

Jay

This is right and is also called attack position when going offroad. Standing straight up like a meerkat locks your elbow straight giving one no leverage over the handlebar and therefore zero control over the bike. One only stands to give the butt and hamstrings some freedom. The upper torso is hardly ever fatigued.

Originally Posted by abhiijithbhatn

In my defence, seven years ago, I owned a Dominar and modified it for adventure trip.

My bike has been set up for a comfortable attack position but Many friends however swear by this meerkat pose...

[JayPrashanth]

Originally Posted by abhiijithbhatn

In my defence, seven years ago, I owned a Dominar and modified it for adventure riding. I toured extensively in southern India, including some dedicated off-road trails. While your definition of geometry works well for off-road bikes, I would classify adventure riding as essentially a comfortable touring bike with the capabilities of a moderate off-road machine.

Comfortable touring, yes, what you're saying makes sense when the main reason for standing up on the pegs is to say cross a bunch of rumble strips, or hurtle across a sudden speed breaker. I know that most ADVs in India are used primarily for this.

Totally fine, but when it comes to more challenging stuff, like say riding to some really cool locations and actually enjoying the process of it, leaning towards the front of the bike gives one a lot of flexibility. It feels more fun. Here the objective is not just to tour but to reach hard-to-reach places and actually enjoy the challenge.

The latter approach, in my humble opinion, will improve one as a rider. It's like say doing a track day to become a better rider on the road. I concede that this may not float everyone's boat. So, adding angled risers to the F450 GS may help in such a case.

Cheers,

Jay

[CrAzY dRiVeR]

The production version may have 19" front and 17" rear cast aluminium wheels -

What could we expect in a production version?

Johann Simon, vehicle project manager of the Concept F 450 GS, explains: "No compromises for sure. Following the very sporty off-road focus of the Concept F 450 GS, we will implement the bike as close as possible to this concept. We will only adjust the seat height for better accessibility and easier handling. As an alternative to the cross-spoke wheels (19 inches front, 17 inches rear), lightweight but high-strength cast aluminium wheels in the same dimensions are also conceivable"

[b16h22]

Originally Posted by CrAzY dRiVeR

The production version may have 19" front and 17" rear cast aluminium wheels -

It's expected. Despite the wild looks and specs present on the concept, the production versions are always watered down to keep the bean counters happy. Considering its an A2 license bike after all, the specs are going to be a lot more toned down. Will have to see how much of it actually makes it to the production version.