Barely two and a half months after its global debut, the new BMW R 1300 GS has not only lived up to its promises but has also pushed the boundaries of off-road excellence and robustness. In a daring expedition across the Atacama Desert in Chile, a fleet of standard BMW R 1300 GS models successfully ascended the Nevado Ojos del Salado, the highest active volcano globally, showcasing unparalleled performance at altitudes exceeding 6,000 meters.
A Record-Setting Ascent
From December 6th to 7th, 2023, four standard BMW R 1300 GS models equipped with Metzeler Karoo 4 tires embarked on a remarkable journey, starting from sea level near the Pacific Ocean and culminating at the notorious "Rock Channel" on the northern flank of Nevado Ojos del Salado, reaching an astonishing altitude of 6,027 meters in just 19 hours and 22 minutes. This expedition marked a new chapter in adventure riding, demonstrating the capability of the R 1300 GS to tackle extreme terrains and altitudes.
The Unyielding Team
An international team of skilled riders took on this challenging endeavor, including Christof Lischka, BMW Motorrad Development Manager, Salvatore Pennisi, Metzeler Test and Technical Director, Michele Pradelli, Italian Extreme Enduro Champion, and Karsten Schwers, tester and journalist for German magazine MOTORRAD. Their expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in the success of this groundbreaking expedition.
Standard Bikes, Extraordinary Feat
What sets this adventure apart is the decision to undertake it with standard motorcycles and standard tires, showcasing the true capabilities of the BMW R 1300 GS. The expedition highlighted the bike's prowess even with 19" front and 17" rear tires, setting a new standard in the world of adventure riding.
The Challenge for Man and Machine
The climb to Nevado Ojos del Salado posed a formidable challenge for both riders and their machines. The extreme conditions, including low temperatures reaching -20 °C at night and low oxygen levels above 5,000 meters, demanded physical and mental resilience from the participants. Long-term preparation, acclimatization, and rigorous testing were essential, ensuring the well-being of the riders and the optimal performance of the BMW R 1300 GS under such harsh conditions.
The BMW R 1300 GS South American expedition stands as a testament to the motorcycle's engineering and its ability to excel in the most challenging conditions. The journey not only showcased the bike's off-road prowess but also underlined its versatility as a formidable machine for adventure enthusiasts worldwide. The R 1300 GS has truly raised the bar in the world of adventure riding, setting a standard that will be hard to beat.