BMW Motorrad is expanding its adventure lineup with the new BMW F 450 GS, a lightweight adventure bike designed specifically for the 48 hp A2 licence class.
The German manufacturer aims to bring the core GS experience to a smaller and more accessible platform while retaining the versatility and off-road capability the series is known for.
According to Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, the new model captures the essence of the GS philosophy: get on, twist the throttle and enjoy the ride with confidence and full control.
A new GS aimed at a growing segment
With the BMW F 450 GS, BMW Motorrad targets the rapidly expanding mid-capacity adventure segment. The bike was first previewed as a concept at EICMA 2024 before evolving into its final production form.
The result is a versatile all-rounder designed for commuting, touring and off-road exploration. The styling clearly follows the latest GS design language, highlighted by the LED headlight with the distinctive "X" daytime running light signature.
Product manager Astrid Neudecker explains that the model also responds to the growing trend toward downsizing, where many riders are moving from larger motorcycles to lighter, more versatile machines.
© Markus Jahn
All-new parallel twin engine
At the heart of the BMW F 450 GS sits a completely new 420 cc parallel twin engine with fuel injection and a right-side stainless steel exhaust system.
The engine produces 35 kW (48 hp) at 8,750 rpm and 43 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm, placing it exactly at the A2 licence limit.
A distinctive feature is the crankshaft with a 135-degree crankpin offset combined with a balance shaft, delivering a more characterful engine feel while significantly reducing vibrations.
Fuel consumption is claimed at 3.8 L/100 km, and with the 14-litre fuel tank the range can exceed 350 km.
Easy Ride Clutch system
One of the most notable innovations on the bike is the Easy Ride Clutch (ERC). This system uses a centrifugal clutch mechanism that automatically engages and disengages depending on engine speed.
In practice, riders can start, shift and manoeuvre without using the clutch lever. However, the lever remains functional and can still be used manually when needed.
The system is standard on the GS Trophy version and optional on the other variants.
Combined with Shift Assistant Pro, the motorcycle can be ridden almost entirely without clutch operation.
© Markus Jahn
New chassis and suspension setup
The BMW F 450 GS features a newly developed tubular steel frame designed for rigidity, durability and precise handling, with the engine acting as a structural element.
At the front, a 43 mm KYB upside-down fork handles suspension duties, while the rear uses a hollow-cast aluminium swingarm connected to a KYB monoshock with rally-inspired progressive damping.
Sport and GS Trophy versions also feature adjustable "Sports" suspension.
Electronics and safety systems
Braking performance comes from a 310 mm front disc with a Brembo four-piston caliper and a 240 mm rear disc.
Electronic systems include:
- ABS Pro with cornering function
- Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
- Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
- engine drag torque control (MSR)
Standard riding modes include Rain, Road and Enduro, while Enduro Pro becomes available on higher trim levels.
© Joerg Kuenstle
Ergonomics and onboard technology
The riding position has been designed for both seated road riding and standing off-road control. The high aluminium handlebar and tank shape provide solid rider support in both scenarios.
The bike features a 6.5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, navigation, music and call integration.
Different screen layouts are available, including Pure Ride and Sport screens displaying lean angle, braking data and traction control activity.
A USB-C charging port is also integrated in the cockpit.
© Markus Jahn
Four equipment variants
The BMW F 450 GS will be offered in four versions:
- Base model in Cosmic Black
- Exclusive version with additional equipment and electronics
- Sport version in Racing Red with sports suspension
- GS Trophy version in Racing Blue Metallic with sports suspension, rally screen and Easy Ride Clutch as standard.
© Markus Jahn
| Technical specifications BMW F 450 GS | |
|---|---|
| F 450 GS - Engine | |
| Displacement cm³ | 420 |
| Bore/stroke mm | 72 x 51.6 |
| Power output kW/hp | 35/48 |
| At engine speed rpm | 8,750 |
| Torque Nm | 43 |
| At engine speed rpm | 6,750 |
| Type | Water-cooled, two-cylinder, four-stroke in-line engine with four valves per cylinder operated by rocker followers and two overhead camshafts per cylinder as well as 135-degree crankshaft journal offset |
| Compression | 13:1 |
| Fuel | Premium unleaded, 95 RON |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Ø intake/outlet mm | 29/24.3 |
| Ø throttle valve mm | 38 |
| Engine control | BMS-Z |
| Emission control | Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, exhaust emission standard EU-5+ |
| Electrical system | |
| Generator W | 334 |
| Battery V/Ah | 12/8, maintenance-free |
| Headlight | LED |
| Rear light | LED |
| Turn indicators | LED |
| Starter W | 700 |
| Power transmission | |
| Clutch | Multi-disc wet clutch, mechanically actuated |
| Transmission | Claw shift 6-speed transmission |
| Primary ratio | 2.025 |
| Transmission ratios I | 2.765 |
| II | 2.062 |
| III | 1.588 |
| IV | 1.286 |
| V | 1.095 |
| VI | 0.955 |
| Secondary drive | Chain |
| Secondary ratio | 3.43 |
| F 450 GS - Chassis | |
| Frame construction type | Steel tubular space frame, engine centrally mounted |
| Front wheel suspension | KYB USD telescopic fork, Ø 43 mm; rebound and compression damping adjustable for “Sport” and “GS Trophy” variants |
| Rear wheel suspension | Aluminum swinging arm, directly linked KYB WAD spring strut, spring base and rebound damping adjustable |
| Spring travel, front/rear mm | 180/180 |
| Wheel caster mm | 115 |
| Wheelbase mm | 1,465 |
| Steering head angle ° | 28.1 |
| Brakes front | Single disc brake, Brembo Ø 310 mm, 4-piston monobloc fixed caliper |
| Brakes rear | Single disc brake, ByBre Ø 240 mm, 1-piston floating caliper |
| ABS | Standard equipment, BMW Motorrad ABS Pro (lean angle optimized) |
| Wheels | Light alloy cast wheels |
| Front wheel | 2.50 x 19″ |
| Rear wheel | 3.50 x 17″ |
| Tires front | 100/90-19 |
| Tires rear | 130/80-17 |
| Dimensions and weights | |
| Total length mm | 2,161 |
| Overall width via handlebar levers mm | 869 |
| Seat height mm | 845 |
| DIN unladen weight, road ready kg | 178 |
| Permitted total weight kg | 355 |
| Fuel tank capacity l | 14 |
| Performance figures | |
| Fuel consumption (WMTC) l/100 km | 3.8 |
| CO₂ g/km | 88 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h s | 5.9 |
| Top speed km/h | 165 |
The post BMW F 450 GS: The new entry point into the GS world for A2 riders appeared first on M Sports.