EICMA 2025: BMW Unveils the 2026 F 450 GS. The GS for all of us?
BMW Motorrad unveiled the 2026 F 450 GS today, shrinking GS expertise into a 48 hp, Philippine expressway-legal, lightweight adventure package. At 178kg wet, it blends rally-derived dynamics with everyday usability – ideal for Philippines' rugged escapes and Philippine jungles. The "king of adventure" now joins the crowded sub 500cc adventure party, directly challenging the KTM 390 Adventure R, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, and CFMOTO 450 MT with superior tech and build.
Key specs:
- Engine: 420cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin, DOHC, 8 valves; 48 hp @ 8,750 rpm, 43 Nm @ 6,750 rpm; 13:1 compression; 135° crank offset for smooth delivery; (350km+ range from 14L tank); Euro 5+.
- Transmission: 6-speed chain drive; optional Shift Assistant Pro (quickshifter up/down).
- Chassis: Steel lattice-tube frame (engine as stressed member); KYB 43mm USD forks (adjustable rebound/compression on Sport/Trophy); KYB monoshock rear (preload/rebound adjustable, travel-dependent damping); 180mm ground clearance.
- Brakes/Wheels: Brembo 4-piston radial front (310mm disc), 1-piston rear (240mm); cornering ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control; tubeless cast aluminum wheels (19" front 100/90, 17" rear 130/80 Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR); optional cross-spoke.
- Electronics: 6.5" TFT dash (Pure Ride/Sport screens); Rain/Road/Enduro modes (Enduro Pro on higher trims, rear ABS off); DTC, MSR, engine brake control; USB-C, heated grips; Y-Connect app.
- Dimensions: 2,170mm L x 900mm W x 1,365mm H; 1,465mm wheelbase; 845mm seat (830mm low/865mm high options); 178kg wet.
- Unique Tech: Easy Ride Clutch (Trophy standard, retrofittable) – centrifugal system for stall-proof starts/shifts, no manual clutch needed off-road.
- Basic (Cosmic Black): Core setup.
- Exclusive (Cosmic Black): Adds Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant, handguards, underbody guard, clear windshield.
- Sport (Racing Red): Sports suspension, black accents.
- Trophy (Racing Blue Metallic): Full kit – ERC, Rallye windshield, aluminum engine guard, magnesium parts, white handguards.
Accessories: Akrapovič exhaust, luggage, rally seats, engine guards.
Online reports hail it as the "A2 GS we've waited for" – Cycle World notes its rally roots, while Team-BHP flags India/Philippines potential vs. rivals. X buzz from concept teases builds to "lightweight GS game-changer." First rides eyed for 2026. Your A2 adventure pick?
