Tech: New BMW R1300GS ushers in a radical change to chassis design for BMW

BMW’s 2024 R1300GS represents the biggest technical shakeup since the introduction of the R1100GS in 1993.

While the boxer GS first appeared in 1980 it was the 1993-on 1100 that nailed the classic GS formula with the engine as a stressed member topped by tubular steel subframes – plus BMW’s signature Paralever rear suspension and Telelever front end.

Those same ideas have ruled the roost for three decades… until now. Down with the tubes It’s a bold move to mess with a relentlessly successful recipe, but BMW’s changes make a lot of sense.

The chassis drops the triangulated steel tubes, swapping them for a pressed sheet steel main frame and diecast aluminium subframe…