Why the BMW R 1300 GS?
BMW GS customers are undoubtedly some of our biggest fans, and we have been supporting the BMW GS platform with vehicle-specific products since we started it all. In the rapidly changing world of motorcycle innovation, anticipation grows as we at DENALI cross the ocean into the UK.
The mission? To start work on the BMW R 1300 GS before it makes its way to the United States, to set the stage for the BMW R 1300 GS to leave a lasting impression on American roads.
The BMW R 1300 GS is a powerhouse. With its boxer engine, redesigned compact frame and unmatched performance, this motorcycle has already captured the imagination of riders around the world. We at DENALI saw an opportunity to enhance this experience even further.
Why the United Kingdom?
We knew we had to get creative to make sure we would have our signature DENALI riding lights, horns, visibility lights, mounts, wiring, accessory switches and controllers ready to ship the day the motorcycle arrives in North America, so we sent our chief engineer Aaron LaPrade on the overnight flight. Aaron stopped by our popular UK dealer, A Bike Thing in Chilcote, UK, to begin taking apart their brand new BMW 1300GS. Special thanks to Stave from A Bike Thing for hosting Aaron, and to R&G (our UK distributor) for helping with the project).
Armed with our 3D scanner to begin our first external R&D session with real-time collaboration with the team back in the United States, Aaron used state-of-the-art technology to send scans to RI while our engineers designed and constructed components seconds later. During the scanning process, Aaron was able to capture details such as mounting points and empty spaces that could house our lights and mounts.
What did we learn about the BMW R1300GS?
When working with the BMW R 1300 GS, one thing immediately stands out: its design. Removing cosmetic panels is now easier than ever, thanks to the presence of pop fasteners and a pair of Torx head screws. This easy panel removal not only simplifies maintenance, but also gets you back on the road faster, especially when riders opt for additional accessories such as the CANsmart, DialDim and advanced D7 PRO lighting. With more space, the process of routing wiring harnesses is easier than ever.
One notable improvement is the repositioning of the battery, now directly under the rider's seat instead of in its previous location near the right leg. This strategic change improves ease of use, allowing easy access to essential components for both regular maintenance and modifications.
The rear subframe has been redesigned into a one-piece molded component. By removing the rider and passenger seats, the packed elements underneath become visible, eliminating the need to navigate through closures, as with the Rear Carrier Assembly on the R1250GS. This redesign allows for more efficient and hassle-free installation of accessories such as the DialDim controller or CANsmart controller. Finally, the new subframe provides additional space.
While sending 3D scan data to The States and making several prototype iterations, such as the vehicle-specific Upper Light Mount, we were able to seamlessly integrate the design as if it were made in Berlin. Installing the new light mount requires only "popping" the upper front fender and aluminum "GS" panels to access the mount's installation points. Seriously, that's all.
What products are we developing for the motorcycle?
Safety, performance, control, design, integration and durability are in our DNA. Our new products will incorporate the latest technological advances to take your riding experience to the next level. Exciting products such as:
CANsmart - We are excited to announce that our acclaimed CANsmart controller will be one of the first products available for the R1300GS. It will have all the features you know and love, but can now be paired with our Dual-Beam D7 PRO driving lights for an industry unique experience, giving R1300GS riders the ability to change the shape and color of the beam on the go via the BMW "wonderwheel" switch. Click here to see what else the CANsmart can do.
Upper Light Mounts - We have already completed the CAD design and are now testing our sturdy 5mm steel upper light mount that grips three points of the bike to mount even our largest lights in the ideal mounting location on your R1300GS. They're going to look good. Rally Mount (for mounting GPS or cell phone) Horn Bracket for SoundBomb Split Horn Our X-Lens aesthetic and solid center optics of the D7 PRO perfectly match BMW's new X-shaped DRL headlight. It literally looks like an OEM extension of the modern-aggressive yet sleek headlight that BMW has chosen to define the next-generation adventure motorcycle segment
