The Next Big Thing in Small ADVs: BMW F 450 GS Breaks Cover

Image Source: Gaadiwaadi.com

BMW Motorrad's upcoming entry-level adventure motorcycle, the highly awaited BMW F 450 GS, has been spotted testing with very little camouflage. The latest test shots provide the best look ever at the production-spec motorcycle, confirming some fresh details about its design, features, and mechanics. TVS will produce the F 450 GS, which is targeted for a late 2025 release against competition from the likes of the KTM 390 Adventure, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, and Honda NX500.

Design and Styling

The new test mule is highly production-like, with the bodywork being fully finished.
Some of the notable design features are a high touring-style windscreen, vertically-stacked LED headlight (similar to the bigger R 1300 GS), and a longer rear end for better touring.
The production version has a more traditional dual LED headlamp arrangement, a fractionally lower overall height than the concept, and a visible steel trellis frame.
Alloy wheels (19-inch front and 17-inch rear) with dual-purpose tyres suggest a road-biased ADV, though spoked wheels can be provided as an accessory.
Accessories such as a top box, bash plate, knuckle guards, and crash protection were observed on the test bike.

Engine and Mechanical Details

Driven by an all-new 450cc parallel-twin engine, which churns out 48 bhp and about 45 Nm of torque, and has a six-speed gearbox.
Built on a steel bridge trellis frame with a bolt-on sub-frame to facilitate easier repair work.
Suspension system features USD forks at the front and a centrally mounted monoshock at the back.
The prototype measures about 175-178 kg and has a fuel tank capacity of 14-litre.
Single disc brakes are fitted to both wheels along with lean-angle-sensitive ABS.

Features and Technology

Large 6.5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, as seen on bigger BMW bikes.
Other features to be anticipated: adjustable hand levers, windshield, handguards, electronic rider aids, and complete LED lighting.
The riding position has been characterized as roomy and neutral, characteristic of adventure motorcycles.

Production and Launch Timeline

TVS Motor's Hosur plant will produce the F 450 GS.
Launch anticipated in late 2025, and a projected price band of Rs 4.5–5 lakh (ex-showroom).
Will be the replacement for the outgoing G 310 GS as BMW's low-end ADV product in India.

Competition

Direct competitors are KTM 390 Adventure, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, Honda NX500, Aprilia Tuono 457, and CFMoto 450 MT.

Sources: NDTV Auto, BikeWale, Autocar India, Cartoq