The BMW R1300 GS pillion test

Wolf's pillion passenger, Mel, can already draw comparisons in this regard, as she has ridden countless different models through her job as a motorcycle tester and has covered well over 100,000 kilometers through 29 countries (Albania, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Germany, England, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Croatia, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Poland, Romania, Scotland, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Ukraine, Hungary), thanks in no small part to their journeys together.

And because you don't get a second chance to make a first impression, it always factors into her "evaluation." And it was truly impressive from the moment she mounted the bike. "The knee angle is very comfortable," she whispered to Wolf before they took off—the grab handles are also easily accessible without any awkward twisting. The space is adequate, though not the most expansive—it might feel a bit tight for two tall riders. Wolf, at 1.75 meters, and the slender Mel, standing at 1.60 meters, had no complaints in this regard.

Naturally, when riding tandem, the bike must accommodate both riders, and on the BMW R1300 GS, the rider barely notices the presence of a passenger. The bike boasts ample power, with its engine performing as a veritable torque marvel, always delivering robust performance. Thus, the journey begins on a stretch of highway, then transitions to the serpentine country roads leading towards Kalte Kuchl. The protection against wind and weather is exceptionally effective; neither rider has grounds for complaint. Since one sits more within the GS rather than atop it, the passenger enjoys a clear view, although this is somewhat diminished by the flatter enduro-style seat.

The rougher the terrain, the more the passenger values the suspension and the resulting ride comfort. Bumps are smoothly smoothed over when in Road mode. These benefits extend particularly when veering onto off-road tracks. Even on gravel, the BMW R1300 GS provides more comfort than many other bikes; not every large rock or minor elevation is directly felt through the seat.

Overall, Mel found the new large GS extremely comfortable and would rate it as "good." In comparison to its predecessor and other touring enduros, it falls slightly short on space, and the seat upholstery quality is also superior, which becomes noticeable after a couple of hours of riding. These issues might be addressed by selecting an alternative seat from the wide array of accessories available. Nonetheless, she considers the R1300 GS to be perfectly suited for two-person journeys that could extend over long distances—and no rider would ever disagree with her on this point (and not just here)...