Motorcycle specifications BMWF 450 GS 2026 The fugue

For a very long time, a GS was the epitome of the frontier-devouring motorcycle, of a certain standing, of the perfect fusion of road and rail... and of unfailing seriousness. But now there's a new member of the family: the F 450 GS. It's BMW's new entry-level model, its first foray into the off-road family, and it's bound to make some noise.

It arrives to shake up the G 310 GS with a big boot. While the latter looks like a big 125, the new "little" GS presents itself as a handsome 500. The design comes as no surprise, as the bike has been teased for a good year. Svelte lines, cross-country looks, incisive front end, pronounced cheeks... the bike is as stylish as it gets.

R 1300 GS scaled down

One of the great qualities of BMW communications is their concept bikes. Always very close to the future production version. This is impeccably true of the F 450 GS. Since the Concept appeared at the end of 2024, virtually nothing has changed. There are insignificant variations in the under-seat trim, slightly redesigned side panels, a larger front mudguard and the disappearance of the Akrapovic exhaust system (which is still available as an option). The only element that has really evolved is the headlight, with a weaker but still present X signature.

In short, minimal changes that in no way detract from the appeal of this little trail bike. Its mini-R1300 GS appearance is a huge asset. With its wasp-like stature, enduro profile and much more athletic silhouette than the G 310 GS, this young Behemoth will quickly find its audience.

And that audience is none other than young A2 license holders. It's for them that BMW is unleashing a brand-new engine, with a maximum power output of 35 kW (almost 48 hp), reached at 8,750 rpm. Torque is right up there with the engine's displacement, with 43 Nm perched at 6,750 rpm.

An all-new twin

It's a 420 cm3 twin, with the usual modern solutions: liquid cooling, 4 valves per cylinder, fuel injection and double ACT. Except that its 135° engine timing is unprecedented in motorcycle production. This irregular ignition interval gives the block a new and unique character. What's more, the engine-makers have opted for the super-square dimensions of 70 mm bore and 51.6 mm stroke. Far more than the Japanese 500 twins - it's a sign of a sporty temperament. It also features a high compression ratio (13:1), a counter-rotating balancer shaft to limit vibrations and, another novel feature, anEasy Ride ERC clutch system.

This innovation is available as an option (except as standard on the Trophy trim level) to facilitate gear shifting. Behind the ERC system is a centrifugal unit activated according to engine speed. The rider shifts into first gear, accelerates, and the bike takes off without having to touch the shifter. As the shifter is fitted on virtually all versions (except the basic one), there's no need to touch the clutch with an F 450 GS. BMW claims that Easy Ride offers additional comfort, especially in town, on tight bends and off-road.

The left-hand lever is still there, however, for standard use, passing an obstacle or managing the rear in certain situations. A special feature of the ERC system is that it remains closed during deceleration to maintain engine braking.

A new form of assistance, added to the package - this time electronic - of our road shrew. Yes, yes.... it's compulsory and standard on a BMW to have lots of driving aids. That's just the way it is, and it's becoming the same for other manufacturers (except Ural). The F 450 GS is natively equipped with DTC traction control, MSR engine braking management, ABS cornering Pro and three driving modes. "Rain", "Road", and "Enduro", which are the three missions that will be hired with this machine. More experienced enthusiasts will find the "Enduro Pro" mode in the options, where they can deactivate wheelie control and rear ABS, as well as customize throttle response, abs and traction control intervention levels.

Wait, the surprises aren't over yet. Heated grips are also standard. Surprising at this level of the range from the German brand, when you think that it wasn't until the 1300 that these elements were standard on a large GS.

On-board equipment also includes a USB-C socket, headlights and LEDs everywhere, and BMW's unconditional 6.5-inch color TFT screen. Always pleasing, always packed with information, the screen can offer several display themes, smartphone control, music and turn-by-turn navigation.

From roads to trails, or trails to adventure?

But where the F 450 SG is most eagerly awaited is in its ability to take on the open road. It is equipped with a new tubular steel frame, in which the engine plays a load-bearing role. This gives it the rigidity and sturdiness needed to cope with bumps and shocks. The swingarm is made of aluminum. The inverted fork is a serious 43 mm in diameter, while the shock absorber is semi-horizontal. These Kayaba components have 180 mm of travel, which is substantial but more trail than enduro. The tires continue to take us in this direction, with a 19" front wheel and narrow dimensions without being totally offroad (front: 100/90 / rear: 130/70). This finesse plays a major role in the bike's agility.

It's clear: the F 450 GS wants to venture off-road, but without going too far into difficulty. The basic version, with its spoked rims, immediately shows a limited commitment. Spoked models will clearly be more appropriate if you really want to tease rocks and slap dirt.

This determination not to "extremize" the F 450 GS also limits its seat height. 845 mm is a little high, but not excessively so. As is the bike's weight. 178 kg plus some 14 liters of fuel put it in the upper mid-range of its class. The single front brake disc with its 310 mm diameter and Brembo 4-piston caliper will have no trouble braking. And what about the rear? There's a piston to bite a 240 mm disc.

Success in ambush?

Ultra-pleasing looks, a brand-new and even more resourceful engine, assertive technology - the new F 450 GS also makes a striking argument: its 7,500-euro price tag. A clearly affordable value for a BM, putting it in direct competition with a KLE 500 SE, a 390 Adventure X or the NX 500. With a joker card on the suit: the white and blue coat of arms always makes an impact before you even get started.

M.B. - Manufacturer's photos

A little anecdote: imagine that almost 50 years later, the F 450 GS is only 2 horsepower lighter and weighs almost the same as the R 80 G/S, the very first in the line.