BMW Motorrad has introduced the new BMW F 450 GS, a compact adventure bike that offers riders in the A2 class (48 hp) the full GS experience. Lightweight, accessible and packed with technology, it’s designed for those who want true BMW GS performance without the weight or intimidation of a big-bore machine.
A real GS, just more accessible
As BMW Motorrad CEO Markus Flasch puts it, the new 450 GS embodies “the essence of a GS: get in, accelerate, have fun – with full control and confidence.” It’s not just marketing talk. The F 450 GS was built from the ground up as a balanced all-rounder – it combines everyday suitability, touring comfort and off-road capability – in a form that weighs just 178 kg when ready to ride.
Completely new two-cylinder engine
Power comes from an all-new 420cc parallel twin delivering 35kW (48hp) at 8,750rpm and 43Nm at 6,750rpm. 135 degrees of crank pin offset and balancer shaft ensure a robust, characterful tone and remarkably smooth running. Despite the displacement, this compact twin meets the EU5+ emissions standard and only consumes 3.8 l/100 km, meaning it offers a range of over 350 km with its 14 liter tank. A six-speed gearbox and a left-mounted chain drive ensure power transmission.
Easy-Ride clutch
The technical centerpiece is BMW’s Easy Ride Clutch (ERC), a centrifugal clutch system that automatically engages and disengages the clutch, making manual clutch operation unnecessary when starting off, shifting gears or crawling off-road. Drivers can still operate the lever if they want full manual control, but the ERC offers a level of comfort and smoothness never before seen in this class.
The system is standard on the Trophy variant and available as an option across the entire series. It combines beautifully with the Shift Assistant Pro for clutchless upshifts and downshifts.
Light frame, strong suspension
The F 450 GS rides on a new tubular steel frame that uses the engine as a load-bearing element to reduce rigidity and weight. Suspension is provided by a 43mm KYB upside-down fork and a KYB rear shock absorber with adjustable preload and rebound as well as travel-dependent damping derived from BMW’s rally program.
Braking is handled by a Brembo 310mm four-piston disc at the front and a ByBre 240mm disc at the rear, both supported by ABS Pro for cornering stability. Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Dynamic Brake Light ensure additional safety.
Electronics and driving modes
Every F 450 GS has “Rain”, “Road” and “Enduro” modes as standard, as well as Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR) and ABS Pro. Exclusive and higher trim levels feature Enduro Pro, which disables the rear ABS for better off-road control.
Design and ergonomics
With its signature “X” LED headlight, tall aluminum handlebars and slim body, the 450 GS looks unmistakably part of the GS family. Adjustable levers, three seat heights (830 mm – 865 mm) and height-adjustable foot switches adapt the bike to riders of all sizes. xA 6.5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips and a USB-C port are standard – features more common on larger BMWs than entry-level models.
BMW offers four equipment variants to suit different driving styles:
- Base (Cosmic Black) – central GS functionality, easy focus.
- Exclusive (Cosmic Black) – additional off-road footrests, handguards, engine protection and Riding Modes Pro.
- Sport (Racing Red) – adjustable “sports suspension”, shift assistant Pro, clear screen.
- Trophy (Racing Blue Metallic) – flagship with aluminum protection, tinted rally windshield, sports suspension and Easy Ride Clutch.
Ready for adventure
As with every GS, BMW offers a wide catalog of genuine motorcycle accessories – from Akrapovič exhaust systems and cross-spoke wheels to windshield kits, luggage systems and engine guards.
The 2025 BMW F 450 GS proves that small-displacement adventure bikes can still offer the thrill of a big GS. With its mix of cutting-edge technology, everyday usability and robust GS character, it’s not just an entry-level motorcycle – it’s a compact entry into the world’s most respected adventure bike family.
