When the conversation turns to long-distance motorcycle travel, one name comes up time and again: BMW Motorrad. From African tracks to America's legendary highways, German motorcycles have established themselves as a benchmark for riders seeking comfort, reliability and versatility.
At Planet Ride, many tours can be ridden on a BMW, and there is a reason for that. Whether you dream of covering the wide-open spaces of America, crossing the French Alps or riding South Africa's wild tracks, BMW GS models are among the motorcycles best suited to adventure.
BMW Motorrad: a benchmark for motorcycle travel
For decades, BMW has developed motorcycles designed for long distances and exploration. The GS range has become an icon of round-the-world motorcycle travel. BMW Motorrad also highlights a worldwide network of touring specialists and adventure trips, reflecting the importance of this philosophy to the brand.
But why do so many travelers choose a BMW when heading far from home?
Comfort: a real advantage over long distances
A motorcycle tour is more than a few hours of riding on a Sunday. It can mean several hundred kilometers a day, changing weather, varied roads and full days in the saddle.
BMW GS motorcycles are known for their exceptional comfort:
- an upright, natural riding position;
- excellent wind protection;
- suspension capable of absorbing both rough pavement and unpaved tracks;
- a comfortable seat for rider and passenger;
- ergonomics designed to reduce fatigue.
Recent models such as the BMW R 1300 GS have further improved handling and overall comfort, with technology designed to make long journeys easier.
The result is more time on the road, greater peace of mind and, above all, more enjoyment.
A reliable motorcycle for traveling far
When traveling by motorcycle, reliability matters. Nobody wants to be stranded in the middle of a desert or a mountain range.
BMW GS motorcycles have earned a strong reputation among long-distance riders thanks to:
- robust engines;
- modern electronics;
- excellent endurance;
- a strong ability to cover mile after mile.
The BMW GS is often described as a worldwide benchmark for adventure motorcycles thanks to its balance of comfort, technology and robustness.
Another major advantage is BMW Motorrad's extensive worldwide network. Finding parts, a workshop or assistance is generally much easier than with smaller brands. For major international trips, that is a real benefit.
Surprisingly easy to ride
BMW GS motorcycles can look imposing because of their size, until you ride one.
Despite their dimensions, these motorcycles are surprisingly approachable thanks to:
- a carefully designed center of gravity;
- reassuring electronics;
- effective riding aids;
- excellent stability.
Even riders with limited adventure-bike experience are often surprised by how easily a GS handles on roads and tracks.
Riding modes, ABS Pro, traction control and electronic suspension help adapt the motorcycle to almost any terrain.
The most popular BMW models for touring
BMW R 1300 GS
This is the brand's new benchmark. Lighter, more technologically advanced and even more versatile, it excels both on the road and off-road.
Ideal for:
- major road trips;
- mixed road-and-track tours;
- long-distance adventures.
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
A true distance-covering machine. A huge fuel tank, excellent protection and outstanding comfort make it a motorcycle designed for very long journeys.
It is one of the motorcycles most commonly used for round-the-world trips.
BMW F 900 GS / F 850 GS
Lighter and more approachable, these models offer an excellent compromise for riders who want agile handling without sacrificing touring capability.
Particularly appreciated on:
- African tracks;
- mountain roads;
- mixed-surface itineraries.
BMW F 750 GS
An excellent introduction to the GS range. Lower and more reassuring, it is well suited to riders seeking comfort and versatility.
Why are BMW GS motorcycles so common abroad?
If you travel regularly, you will soon notice one thing: BMW GS motorcycles are everywhere.
Several factors explain this worldwide presence:
- motorcycles readily available to rent;
- BMW's extensive international network;
- ease of maintenance;
- strong popularity among local tour organizers;
- versatility suited to every continent.
In the United States, southern Africa, Europe and South America, GS motorcycles are among the easiest bikes to find for a road trip.
For tour organizers such as Planet Ride, this also makes it possible to offer reliable tours suited to every experience level.
Our BMW motorcycle tours at Planet Ride
At Planet Ride, several destinations are ideal for discovering the BMW GS world.
France and Europe: mountain roads and rewarding riding
BMW GS motorcycles excel on European roads, particularly in the Alps, the Pyrenees and the smaller winding roads of France.
Their versatility makes them suitable for:
- sporty rides;
- two-up touring;
- mountain road trips;
- adventure getaways.
Discover, in particular:
- the tours offered by Rodolphe;
- Éric's itineraries across Europe.
BMW motorcycle tours in Morocco: why GS models are ideal
Morocco holds a special place among the most spectacular destinations for a BMW motorcycle tour. Between the winding roads of the High Atlas, tracks leading to the edge of the Sahara and long stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, the country offers an exceptional variety of terrain for riders seeking adventure.
This is precisely the kind of environment in which BMW GS motorcycles excel.
With their comfort, ability to cover long distances and ease on roads and tracks, GS models are particularly well suited to motorcycle travel in Morocco. Whether on Atlas mountain passes, southern desert tracks or windswept Atlantic coastal roads, they allow riders to travel with confidence while enjoying the scenery.
Models such as the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure and BMW F 900 GS are particularly appreciated for this kind of adventure thanks to:
- their substantial range;
- their excellent stability;
- their comfort on long stages;
- their road-and-track versatility.
Morocco is also an ideal place to discover the adventure spirit of the BMW GS without traveling to the other side of the world. In just a few days, riders can pass through:
- Berber villages perched in the mountains;
- desert tracks;
- oases;
- spectacular scenic roads;
- the wild Atlantic coast.
At Planet Ride, several itineraries offer this experience on a BMW GS, with tours designed to combine riding enjoyment, discovery and adventure.
Discover our motorcycle tours in Morocco.
South Africa: adventure on a grand scale
South Africa is probably one of the destinations where the BMW GS makes the most sense.
Wild tracks, wide-open spaces, remarkable wildlife and endless roads: GS motorcycles are in their element.
Our South Africa wild-track motorcycle road trip is particularly well suited to this type of motorcycle, especially thanks to:
- its comfort over long distances;
- its off-road capability;
- its stability on unpaved tracks.
The United States: the ultimate playground for GS motorcycles
From the wide-open spaces of the American West to legendary Route 66, BMW GS motorcycles are ideal for covering long distances in comfort.
Our tours in the United States let you discover:
- the deserts of Arizona;
- Monument Valley;
- the Rocky Mountains;
- America's scenic roads;
- the great tracks of the West.
Discover our motorcycle tours in the USA.
The BMW GS: more than a motorcycle, a passport to adventure
The BMW GS has become a worldwide benchmark for motorcycle travel for good reason. Comfortable, reassuring, reliable and capable of riding almost anywhere, it meets the expectations of riders who want to discover the world on two wheels.
Whether you are heading away for a weekend in Europe or embarking on a road trip on the other side of the world, BMW GS motorcycles offer that distinctive sense of freedom and confidence that turns every journey into a real adventure.