Over the past decade and a half, one motorcycle has dominated the market in a way that is probably unprecedented since the first time some bright spark had the idea of attaching a combustion engine to a two-wheeled vehicle.
We are talking, of course, about BMW’s GS adventure series.
This all-conquering machine has topped sales over that period not just in the UK, but throughout Europe.
Last year alone, for example, combined sales of the R 1200 GS and GS Adventure nudged 30,000 or an amazing 6% of all bikes sold.
Theses figures are even more impressive when you consider the bike hadn’t been properly overhauled since 2013.
Clearly a hard act to follow.
Enter the R 1250 GS.
(Image: Fraser Addecott)
Headline news on this model is the bigger engine, which offers more power, more torque – and the introduction of the Shift Cam system.
This has partial and high-lift cam lobes which are operated by an electronic shift gate, and a staggered inlet valve opening.
What that means for the rider is that the increased power and torque are delivered in silky smooth, linear fashion, with the electronic switch from low-lift cam to high-lift, under load, completely undetectable.
It also improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions.
The base model has two ride modes (Rain and Road), but the Exclusive TE version I tested adds Dynamic, Enduro and Enduro Pro.
It also includes dynamic brake control, which shuts the throttle if you brake hard, and hill-start control, which, when you stop on a slope, applies the rear brake until you pull away.
Other extras include dynamic traction control and ABS Pro, both of which take into account cornering lean, plus automatic stability control.
And yet another extra feature is dynamic electronic suspension adjustment, which alters the damping according to the conditions.
On board, the ride position is upright and comfortable, with wide bars and that big tank bulging out in front of your knees.
The cockpit houses an excellent 6.5in full-colour TFT screen, with Connectivity.
(Image: Fraser Addecott)
This model has hand-guards, an LED headlight, LED indicators, heated grips and tyre pressure control.
With the fob in your pocket, just hit the start button and you’re off.
All that electronic gadgetry provides a superb ride, with oodles of low-down torque and super-smooth ride-by-wire throttle action.
Handling, via the front telelever system and rear electronics, is as sure-footed as anything I have ridden.
And braking, with twin 305mm front discs and 275mm rear, is equally faultless.
Well-balanced and refined, I found the GS equally at home around town, on the dual carriageway and on the dirt, where its impressive capabilities belie its size and weight.
Improving on one of the most popular bikes ever was a big ask for BMW.
Have they done it? Absolutely.
The Facts
BMW R 1250 GS Exclusive TE
Engine: 1254cc air/liquid-cooled four-stroke twin
Power: 134bhp @ 7,750rpm
Torque: 106 lb ft @6,250rpm
Colours: Black/grey
Price: £16,540 (£13,415 standard)
