BMW Motorrad is all set to launch its new adventure bike, the F 450 GS, in India. It has recently been spotted testing in Karnataka and its pictures have leaked online. Showcased at EICMA 2024 and India Mobility Expo 2025, the bike will launch by the end of 2025, possibly in December. BMW has discontinued the G 310 GS in India, making the F 450 GS the brand’s most affordable adventure bike. Let’s know more about the design, engine, features, price and competition of this bike.
How will the design and look be?
The design of the F 450 GS resembles BMW’s top model R 1300 GS, with sharp ‘beak’ fenders, strong fuel tank and tapered tail section. The testing model shows several new updates despite the camouflage:
- Wheels: 19-inch tubeless cross-spoke wheels at the front and 17-inch tubeless cross-spoke wheels at the rear, which are good for both on-road and off-road.
- Accessories: Saddlebags, top box and knuckle guards, which are probably installed for testing.
- Exhaust: Double-header pipes at the bottom, which give it a premium look.
- Others: Tri-colour scheme (white, blue, red), rally-style single-piece seat and Akrapovic exhaust.
The concept model weighed 175 kg, but the production model could weigh 180-185 kg. Its retro-modern styling and GS badging will attract young riders.
How will the engine and performance be?
The F 450 GS will be powered by a new 450cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that produces around 48 bhp and 45 Nm of torque. The engine is tuned to A2 licence norms (47-48 bhp). BMW claims that its special ignition offset (different from 270-degrees, possibly 285-degrees like the KTM) makes it quick-revving and torquey.
- Gearbox: 6-speed, with slip-and-assist clutch.
- Mileage: Around 25-28 kmpl (estimated), which is good for long rides.
- Weight: The engine is made of lightweight materials like magnesium, which improves the power-to-weight ratio.
The engine produces good torque in the low and mid-range, which is perfect for off-road and highway riding. However, it is slightly less powerful than the KTM 390 Adventure (43 bhp) but more refined.
BMW F 450 GS: Suspension and braking
The chassis and suspension of the F 450 GS are designed to make it easy to ride both off-road and on-road:
- Suspension: Fully-adjustable USD forks at the front (around 180 mm travel) and pre-load adjustable mono-shock at the rear (load-dependent damping, 170 mm travel).
- Braking: Disc brakes on both wheels, dual-channel ABS (rear ABS can be switched off).
- Ground clearance: Around 200 mm (approximate), which is fine for light off-road riding, but less than the Himalayan 450 (230 mm).
This setup makes the bike nimble and stable, but it may not be as capable as the Aprilia Touareg 457 on difficult off-road trails.
What will be the features and technology?
The F 450 GS will get a lot of modern features:
6.5-inch TFT display: With Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, navigation and call/music controls.
- Rider aids: Cornering ABS, switchable traction control, multiple ride modes (road, off-road, rain).
- Lighting: Full LED (headlight, taillight, indicators), with quad DRLs.
- Others: Knuckle guards, raised flyscreen, USB charging port and brass-coated chain.
These features make it look premium and easy to use, but some people may find the headlight dim at night.
What will be the price and where will it be made?
The F 450 GS is expected to be priced between ₹4.5 lakh and ₹5 lakh (ex-showroom). It will be more expensive than the KTM 390 Adventure (₹3.4 lakh) and Himalayan 450 (₹2.85 lakh) but cheaper than the Honda NX500 (₹6.8 lakh). It will be manufactured at TVS Motor’s Hosur, Tamil Nadu plant, which also makes BMW’s G 310 series and CE 02 scooter. Local production will help keep pricing competitive. Bookings are expected to open at dealers closer to launch and deliveries could begin from January 2026.
Who will it compete with?
The F 450 GS will compete with these bikes:
- KTM 390 Adventure: ₹3.4 lakh, 373cc, 43 bhp, 227 mm ground clearance, more off-road focus.
- Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: ₹2.85 lakh, 452cc, 40 bhp, 30 kmpl, economical and robust.
- Honda NX500: ₹6.8 lakh, 471cc, 47 bhp, more premium but expensive.
- Aprilia Touareg 457 (launching in 2025): ₹4.5 lakh (expected), 457cc, 47 bhp, off-road specialist.
The F 450 GS’s premium brand value, refined engine and features set it apart, but the Himalayan’s low price and KTM’s off-road capability will give it tough competition.
Some things to consider before you buy:
Pros: Premium design, refined engine, modern features and light weight.
Cons: Higher price than rivals, dim headlight and not as good for tough off-roads.
Who is this bike for: This is for those who want BMW’s premium brand, style, technology and mild off-road riding.
Do take a test ride at any BMW Motorrad dealership (50+ in India) once it is launched. Contact dealer for finance offers and EMI plans.
Note: Price, specifications and launch date are based on recent news and leaks. Contact BMW Motorrad dealer or official website for exact details.
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