BMW Motorrad shows off all-new F450 GS concept

At the ongoing EICMA 2024 in Milan, Italy, BMW Motorrad showcased its all-new F450 GS concept. This motorcycle has been developed from the ground up, with a production-ready model expected to launch in 2025.

BMW F450 GS: Engine Specifications

The F450 GS features an all-new twin-cylinder engine, which, according to BMW, has been "developed from scratch" and benefits from a "special, never-before-used ignition offset" that makes it particularly responsive and eager to rev. The bike adheres to A2-class power and weight regulations, delivering 48PS of power.

BMW also highlighted that "the extremely compact dimensions of the engine, an excellent displacement-to-power ratio, and the low weight are the result of innovative solutions and the use of lightweight materials, such as magnesium."

BMW F450 GS: Design and Features

Visually, the F450 GS borrows design cues from its bigger sibling, the R1300 GS, likely earning it the nickname "baby GS." The concept bike showcases sleek bodywork similar to the flagship GS, and comes finished in BMW's signature GS Trophy paint scheme.

The F450 GS is equipped with fully adjustable upside-down forks at the front, and a rear monoshock with load-dependent damping. It also includes BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, which is lean-angle sensitive, performance brakes, multiple riding modes, and a 6.5-inch color TFT display with phone connectivity. The concept model weighs 175kg.

In a statement, BMW added, "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."

While the details released so far apply to the concept model, the production version is expected to undergo minor design adjustments and may gain some additional weight.

BMW F450 GS: Co-Development with TVS?

Although BMW has not officially confirmed it, there is speculation that the F450 GS has been co-developed with TVS Motor Company, similar to the partnership for the BMW G 310 RR, G 310 GS, and G 310 R. Despite these collaborations, the 310 models have struggled to attract significant sales, trailing behind their competitors in the market. Even TVS' Apache RR 310 and Apache RTR 310 have faced similar challenges.

Most major manufacturers have entered the sub-500cc segment, offering value-for-money, powerful, and efficient motorcycles. In contrast, TVS and BMW have remained focused on their 310cc models, pricing them similarly with rivals a segment higher.

The big question is whether BMW (along with TVS) can turn the tide with the new F450 GS and its twin-cylinder engine. If TVS is involved in developing the platform or engine, which seems likely, it could use this collaboration to develop its own new models - possibly the Apache RR 450 and Apache RTR 450. TVS might even enter the adventure motorcycle market with this platform and engine. With competitors, such as Triumph, KTM, Royal Enfield, Harley-Davidson, and Aprilia offering well-priced alternatives, there is much anticipation about how the new F450 GS or future TVS products will fare.

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