Quick Analysis
BMW R 1300 GS
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Street Glide
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air and liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled heads, air-cooled cylinders |
| Displacement | 1,300 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin |
| Power | 145.48 bhp @ 7750 rpm | 107 hp @ 5,020 rpm |
| Torque | 149 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 175 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 22.7 litres |
| Mileage | 20.83 kmpl | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 237 | 368 |
| Seat Height | 850 | 715 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS (Cornering Enhanced) |
| Front Brake | Twin disc brake, semi-floating brake discs, diameter 310 mm, 4-piston radial brake caliper | Disc |
| Front Suspension | Central Shock Absorber | 47 mm Inverted 1x1 Front Forks |
| Rear Brake | Single disc brake, diameter 285 mm, 2-piston floating caliper | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Single-sided Swingarm | 3 in. (76.2 mm) Dual Outboard Emulsion with Preload Adjustability |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 - R19 | 130/60 B19 |
| Rear Tyre | 170/60 - R17 | 180/55 B18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Cast aluminum |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED (integrated in Batwing fairing) |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 10 Ah | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Aurelius-Green.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Billiard-gray.jpeg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Triple-black.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Blue-burst.jpeg |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GS-Trophy.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brilliant-red.jpeg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Iron-horse-metallic.jpeg |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Mystic-shift.jpeg |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vivid-black.jpeg |
| Cluster | Digital | 4-inch TFT touchscreen |
| Color Options | Light white | #F5F5F5 Black Storm Metallic | #1B1B1B Racing Blue Metallic | #15327E Aurelius Green Metallic | #3A4B3B,#D4AF37 | Atlas Silver Metallic | #B6B8BA Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Blue Burst | #1E4D8C Brilliant Red | #A01824 Iron Horse Metallic | #5A5A58 Mystic Shift | #4B4F59 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 |
| Cons | Significantly expensive compared to many adventure bike alternatives • Heavy motorcycle, especially for slow-speed manoeuvring and off-road beginners • Optional accessories and packages increase cost quickly • The boxer engine’s width can feel bulky in narrow traffic • Heat is noticeable in Indian summers at crawling speeds • Pillion seat comfort is good but not exceptional without optional top-box/backrest • Maintenance and parts costs are on the premium side | Heavy at Low Speeds – Despite improvements over the years, the Street Glide remains a large touring motorcycle, and its weight is noticeable during parking manoeuvres, U-turns, and stop-and-go traffic. Batwing Fairing Adds Steering Weight – Because the fairing is mounted to the forks, some riders may notice additional weight through the handlebars at lower speeds compared to a frame-mounted setup. Engine Heat in Urban Traffic – The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine can generate noticeable heat around the rider's legs during prolonged periods of slow-moving traffic. Premium Ownership Costs – Purchase price, insurance, servicing, tyres, and genuine accessories can make ownership significantly more expensive than most motorcycles on the road. Less Practical in Congested Cities – The motorcycle's width, weight, and large turning radius can make navigating crowded urban environments more demanding. Wind Management Not as Effective as the Road Glide – While the Batwing fairing provides substantial protection, some long-distance riders prefer the airflow management and highway stability offered by the Road Glide's frame-mounted fairing. Crosswinds Can Be More Noticeable – The fork-mounted fairing may transmit stronger wind effects to the handlebars in certain riding conditions, particularly on open highways. Limited Agility on Twisty Roads – The Street Glide is designed primarily for highway touring, and its size becomes apparent when riding aggressively through tight corners. |
| Detailed Overview | The BMW R 1300 GS is built around a new 1,300cc two-cylinder boxer engine, which is the most powerful of its kind from the brand to date. It produces approximately 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. A major change in this generation is the placement of the gearbox underneath the engine, a design choice that makes the entire powertrain more compact and helps centralize the bike’s weight. In terms of physical build, the motorcycle uses a two-part frame consisting of a main steel shell and a bolted rear subframe. It features a unique suspension system: the EVO-Telelever at the front and EVO-Paralever at the rear, which together provide a travel of 190 mm and 200 mm, respectively. The standard bike has a kerb weight of 237 kg (fully fueled) and a fuel tank capacity of 19 litres, while the more rugged GS Adventure variant increases this capacity to 30 litres and weighs 269 kg. For everyday usability, the seat height is set at 850 mm on the standard model, though an optional Adaptive Vehicle Height Control system can automatically lower the bike to 820 mm when coming to a stop. Braking is handled by twin 310 mm discs at the front with four-piston radial calipers and a single 285 mm disc at the rear, all governed by a lean-angle sensitive ABS system. The cockpit is centered around a 6.5-inch (or optional 10.25-inch) full-color TFT display that includes Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and media. It comes with four standard riding modes, Eco, Rain, Road, and Enduro, which adjust the throttle response and traction control. Other standard electrical features include a full LED matrix headlight, heated grips, keyless ride, and a smartphone charging compartment with a USB socket. | The Harley-Davidson Street Glide is one of the most recognizable touring motorcycles in the world, largely due to its distinctive Batwing fairing and long, low-slung silhouette. Positioned within Harley-Davidson’s Touring family, the motorcycle is built around the requirements of long-distance road travel while incorporating modern electronics, integrated luggage, and a large-capacity V-twin engine. Although its appearance is closely tied to Harley-Davidson’s heritage, the current generation combines traditional styling cues with contemporary technology and rider-assistance systems. Power comes from Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-displacement V-twin that serves as the centerpiece of the motorcycle. Unlike high-revving engines commonly found in sport motorcycles, this powerplant is tuned to produce substantial torque at lower engine speeds. The result is a riding experience that emphasizes relaxed acceleration and effortless highway cruising rather than frequent gear changes or high-RPM performance. The engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission, allowing lower engine speeds during long-distance travel and helping maintain a comfortable cruising character. A defining feature of the Street Glide is its Batwing fairing. Mounted directly to the front forks, the fairing houses the motorcycle’s lighting system, instrumentation, and windscreen while also providing wind protection for the rider. The design has been a signature part of the Street Glide identity for decades and contributes significantly to its visual presence. Compared to naked motorcycles or smaller touring models, the fairing helps reduce wind pressure during extended highway riding, which can lessen rider fatigue over long distances. The chassis is designed to support touring duties while carrying passengers, luggage, and additional equipment. Suspension components are tuned to handle the motorcycle’s substantial weight and maintain stability during highway riding. The overall dimensions and wheelbase contribute to a planted feel at speed, while the riding position remains relaxed through the use of wide handlebars, floorboards, and a spacious seat. This layout places the rider in a comfortable upright posture intended for extended periods in the saddle. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by modern electronic safety systems. Recent generations of the Street Glide incorporate cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, and additional rider-assistance technologies that work in conjunction with onboard sensors. These systems are designed to provide support under varying riding conditions and improve overall control during braking and acceleration. Technology has become a major part of the Street Glide package. A large TFT touchscreen display serves as the motorcycle’s primary interface, providing access to navigation, ride information, audio controls, smartphone connectivity, and vehicle settings. Riders can pair compatible devices through Bluetooth and access communication and entertainment functions directly through the system. The display also allows customization of various motorcycle settings depending on rider preference. Storage capacity is another important aspect of the motorcycle’s touring credentials. Hard saddlebags are integrated into the design and provide secure space for carrying luggage, riding gear, and travel essentials. The motorcycle is also designed to accommodate a passenger comfortably, with ample seating space and ergonomics suited to long-distance travel. The Street Glide combines a Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, modern rider-assistance technology, integrated luggage, and touring-focused ergonomics within a package developed primarily for highway travel. While its styling remains rooted in Harley-Davidson’s traditional touring identity, the underlying specifications reflect a modern grand touring motorcycle intended to cover long distances while providing comfort, storage capacity, and technology for both rider and passenger. |
| Expert Review | The BMW R 1300 GS is a massive leap forward for Indian riders who found the previous 1250 model a bit too bulky for our frantic traffic. By shedding significant weight and adopting a more compact frame, it feels much more manageable when you're filtering through city chaos or tackling narrow mountain hairpins. The new engine delivers smooth, predictable power that doesn't feel overwhelming, which is a huge plus on our unpredictable road surfaces. However, the bike’s sophisticated electronics and radar systems might feel like overkill for someone sticking to well-known routes, and the premium price tag remains a high barrier. While the cooling system has improved, the large boxer engine still radiates a fair amount of heat that becomes very noticeable during long waits at Indian traffic signals. It’s a highly capable machine that balances high-tech features with better agility, though it requires a serious financial commitment and an appetite for its unique, modern styling., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The Street Glide has always occupied an interesting place in Harley-Davidson's lineup because it combines the comfort and equipment of a full-size touring motorcycle with a riding experience that feels slightly more connected than some larger tourers. Much of that character comes from the Batwing fairing, which is mounted to the forks and gives the front end a more direct feel through sweeping bends and everyday riding. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the motorcycle's purpose well, producing strong torque from low revs and making relaxed highway travel feel effortless. The latest generation has also benefited from significant improvements in technology, with the large touchscreen display and rider-assistance systems bringing it closer to contemporary touring motorcycles. Its size is impossible to ignore in city traffic, and riders stepping up from smaller motorcycles will need time to adjust to the weight, but once moving, the Street Glide feels more manageable than its dimensions initially suggest. Rather than chasing outright performance, it focuses on comfort, road presence, long-distance capability, and the distinctive riding experience that has defined Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles for decades., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the BMW R 1300 GS? A: The engine capacity is 1,300 cc, featuring a twin-cylinder boxer layout with BMW’s ShiftCam technology. Q: What are the standard riding modes on the BMW R 1300 GS? A: It comes with modes such as Road, Rain, Eco and Enduro. Q: Does the R 1300 GS come with advanced electronics? A: Yes, it includes features like ABS Pro, traction control, dynamic cruise control with brake function, and optional radar-based systems. Q: Is the BMW R 1300 GS seat height manageable for shorter Indian riders? A: Yes, significantly more so than the older models. While the standard BMW R 1300 GS seat height is 850 mm, the new Adaptive Vehicle Height Control system automatically lowers the bike to 820 mm as you slow down or stop. If you opt for the "Low Comfort Seat," it can drop as far as 800 mm, making it much easier to plant your feet firmly at traffic signals or on uneven Indian roads. Q: What is the real-world fuel range of the BMW R 1300 GS on Indian highways? A: The BMW R 1300 GS fuel tank capacity is 19 litres, which is slightly smaller than some long-distance tourers. In Indian conditions, you can expect a real-world range of approximately 320–350 km on a full tank, depending on your riding mode. Q: Is the BMW R 1300 GS maintenance expensive in India? A: Owning a premium machine like the BMW R 1300 GS does come with high-tier maintenance costs. A standard annual service at an authorized BMW Motorrad India workshop typically ranges between ₹18,000 to ₹25,000, covering oil changes and basic checks. | Q: What type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Street Glide? A: The Street Glide is classified as a touring motorcycle, specifically a grand touring model designed for long-distance highway travel. Q: What engine does the Street Glide use? A: The latest Street Glide is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed transmission. Q: What is the difference between the Street Glide and Road Glide? A: The primary difference is the fairing design. The Street Glide uses a fork-mounted Batwing fairing, while the Road Glide uses a frame-mounted Sharknose fairing, resulting in different wind management and steering characteristics. Q: Does the Street Glide come with cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is standard and is particularly useful during long highway journeys. Q: Does the Street Glide have navigation? A: Yes. The motorcycle features a large touchscreen display with navigation, smartphone connectivity, and infotainment functions. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Street Glide? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 22.7 litres. Q: Are saddlebags included as standard? A: Yes. Lockable hard saddlebags are standard equipment and provide storage for touring and everyday travel. Q: Is the Street Glide suitable for two-up touring? A: Yes. The motorcycle is designed to comfortably accommodate both rider and passenger during long-distance journeys. Q: Does the Street Glide have riding modes? A: Yes. Recent models feature selectable riding modes that adjust throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Is the Street Glide beginner-friendly? A: Due to its size, weight, and engine capacity, it is generally better suited to riders with experience on larger motorcycles. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide? A: Depending on specification and model year, the motorcycle weighs approximately 368–380 kg in running condition. Q: Can the Street Glide be used for daily commuting? A: It can be used in urban environments, but its touring-oriented dimensions make it more comfortable on highways and open roads than in dense city traffic. Q: Does the Street Glide support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. Bluetooth connectivity allows integration with smartphones for calls, media, navigation, and other functions. Q: What makes the Batwing fairing unique? A: The Batwing fairing is one of Harley-Davidson's most iconic design elements and provides wind protection while contributing to the motorcycle's distinctive appearance and riding character. Q: Does the Street Glide have traction control and rider-assistance systems? A: Yes. Modern versions include traction control, cornering-enhanced safety systems, ABS, and multiple electronic rider aids designed to improve stability and control. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Triple Black | 2200000 Trophy | 2225000 Option 719 Tramuntana | 2425000 | STD | 3929999 |
| Pros | • Strong and refined 1,300cc boxer engine with excellent low-end and mid-range torque • Noticeably lighter and more agile than the previous R1250GS • Improved dynamic handling thanks to new chassis and updated suspension • Very comfortable riding position suitable for long-distance touring • Advanced electronics including traction control, ABS Pro, radar-based aids (optional), and multiple ride modes • High-quality build and premium materials throughout • Great wind protection and ergonomic improvements for rider comfort • Versatile performance — equally confident on highways, off-road trails, and city traffic • New design is more compact, modern, and sharper • Multiple style variants (Triple Black, Trophy, Option 719) giving different personalities and equipment | Excellent Touring Comfort – The relaxed riding position, wide seat, floorboards, and touring-focused ergonomics make the Street Glide comfortable over long distances. Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine Delivers Strong Torque – The large V-twin engine produces effortless low-end and mid-range pulling power, reducing the need for frequent gear changes. Batwing Fairing Improves Wind Protection – The iconic front fairing helps reduce wind fatigue during highway journeys while maintaining the motorcycle's distinctive appearance. Premium Build Quality and Finish – Paint quality, switchgear, body panels, and overall fit and finish reflect the motorcycle's premium positioning. Modern Infotainment System – The large TFT display supports navigation, smartphone connectivity, media functions, and ride information through an intuitive interface. Strong Highway Stability – The chassis feels settled at cruising speeds, making the motorcycle well suited to extended highway travel. Large Integrated Saddlebags – Hard luggage comes as standard, providing practical storage for touring and long-distance riding. Advanced Rider Assistance Features – Recent models include riding modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced safety systems, and other electronic aids. Comfortable for Two-Up Riding – The spacious seating arrangement accommodates both rider and passenger during long journeys. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 6-speed manual |
