THE BMW CONCEPT F 450 GS IS THE COMPACT DUAL-SPORT THE SEGMENT NEEDS.
BMW Motorrad has unveiled the Concept F 450 GS, a near-production-ready model designed for A2 license holders who want the thrill of BMW’s GS series in a more compact, (and relatively) accessible package. A2 is the UK version, but there will surely be a similar class in your neck of the woods. In the UK, the A2-class is for riders aged 19 or older for bikes with a power output of more than 24.6kW but no more than 35kW and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2kW/kg This concept model slots between the G 310 and the F 800/900 series, offering a taste of BMW’s premium adventure segment in a format that’s nimble, lightweight, and packed with character for younger and less experienced riders, but it will also be great for a seasoned biker. “For the new BMW Concept F 450 GS, achieving optimal handling and delivering strong performance in a user-friendly package were top priorities,” said Sepp Mächler, Product Manager. “Our aim is to maximize riding pleasure on both roads and trails for A2 riders who want a genuine GS experience.” Taking visual cues from the Trophy version of the flagship R 1300 GS, the F 450 GS flaunts a striking Racing Blue metallic base with accents in blue, white, and red. This bold colour scheme nods to its high-performance roots and rugged off-road capability while making a statement about its adventurous spirit. “The Concept F 450 GS embodies the signature DNA of our GS family,” says Alexander Buckan, Head of BMW Motorrad Design. “We’ve crafted a compact version that mirrors the sporty, dynamic allure of our flagship models in a more accessible size.” Inside the frame, the Concept F 450 GS doesn’t skimp on technical awesomeness. It’s powered by a newly developed twin-cylinder inline engine that promises responsive power and character thanks to an innovative ignition offset. Tuned to the A2-class standard, the engine cranks out 35.3 kW, delivering ample torque at lower revs while keeping the bike’s weight impressively low thanks to lightweight materials like magnesium. In terms of handling, the Concept F 450 GS raises the bar.
Starting from a blank slate allowed BMW’s engineers to prioritize exceptional off-road capability alongside agile, precise road handling. “We equipped the F 450 GS with top-of-the-line components like a fully adjustable upside-down fork and a shock absorber with load-dependent damping inspired by rally and enduro tech,” said Marc Weber, lead engineer on the project. “By incorporating lightweight materials and advanced solutions, we’ve achieved a near-minimum weight of 175 kg for the A2 class, optimizing it for every kind of ride.” Inspired by the high-performance features of the larger R 1300 GS, the Concept F 450 GS includes advanced safety and connectivity options uncommon in this segment. Highlights include BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, which adjusts braking based on lean angle, performance-oriented brakes, and fully configurable riding modes. BMW Connectivity is available through a 6.5-inch TFT display, offering seamless integration with smartphones and accessories. What can riders expect if the Concept F 450 GS heads to production? According to Johann Simon, Vehicle Project Manager, “Our commitment is to stay true to the Concept’s off-road focus, making only a few changes for greater accessibility, like adjusting the seat height. We’re even considering lightweight cast aluminium wheels as an alternative to the cross-spoke setup, while maintaining the 19-inch front and 17-inch rear dimensions.” With the Concept F 450 GS, BMW Motorrad signals its dedication to delivering a GS experience that’s versatile, accessible, and primed for segment category riders, doing the typical BMW thing of pushing the boundaries - this time with regards to what a mid-range adventure bike can be.
Take a look at the YouTube video that showcases the concept for an entry-mid-level GS that will fill the gap between current models. This could see one of the most popular models under the GS range thanks to a better price point and a better size for riders: The brand-new BMW Concept F 450 GS | BMW Motorrad
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