BMW Introduces the 2027 F 450 GS, a Lightweight GS With Big-Bike Intent

BMW Motorrad is bringing the GS formula down two sizes with the 2027 F 450 GS, a clean-sheet entry built around a new 420cc parallel twin and framed to feel like a real GS—only lighter and more approachable.

BMW’s aim here is straightforward: deliver a “genuine GS” experience in the 400–500 cc class—something intuitive and stable on pavement, confident on dirt, and easy to live with every day. On paper, the F 450 GS hits those notes with a friendly power number, clutch tech that lowers the learning curve, and the right GS touches where they matter.

And it just might be the right bike at the right time, as the small-displacement motorcycling segment is the fastest-growing market in the industry. So what's it all about? Let's dive in and get to the nitty-gritty details about this forthcoming mini-adventurer. 

The 420cc parallel-twin engine makes 48 hp at 8,750 rpm and 32 lb-ft at 6,750 rpm, matching the A2 class while promising usable torque and smoothness thanks to a 135-degree crankpin offset, dual overhead cams, and a counter-rotating balance shaft. The motor runs a wet-sump lubrication system, breathes through a stainless exhaust with dual catalysts, and uses BMS-Z ride-by-wire for throttle control. But the transmission is something that is perhaps more notable than its engine.

A headline feature is BMW’s Easy Ride Clutch (ERC), a centrifugal clutch that lets you pull away and manage low-speed work without touching the lever. It’s fitted as standard on the GS Trophy variant and pairs with Gear Shift Assist Pro for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. The lever remains when you want it—picking your way down a slippery descent or lifting the front over an obstacle—while ERC helps prevent stalls in tight, stop-and-go situations. Starting is as simple as opening the throttle with a gear engaged; the system disengages at idle and re-engages with rpm, preserving familiar engine-braking feel while adding ease of use.

Underneath, a new tubular-steel frame uses the engine as a stressed member for rigidity and compact packaging. Geometry targets agility without nervousness—57.7-inch wheelbase, 28.1-degree rake, 4.5-inch trail—and the suspension comes from KYB: a 43 mm USD fork and a centrally mounted shock with progressive (WAD) damping, each delivering 7.1 inches of travel. The GS Trophy’s Sport Suspension adds fork adjusters for rebound and compression, while the shock offers preload and rebound adjustment. Braking is handled by a Brembo four-piston caliper and 310 mm front disc, plus a 240 mm rear, governed by BMW Motorrad ABS Pro for lean-sensitive control and Dynamic Brake Control to prevent unintended throttle during hard stops.

Electronics track with the GS brief. Rain, Road, and Enduro riding modes are standard alongside DTC, MSR (engine drag-torque control), and cornering ABS. The GS Trophy package adds Enduro Pro, tailored for rough-terrain tires and greater rider control, including deactivated rear ABS and wheelie control with customizable throttle and traction responses.

Ergonomics leans toward long days and mixed surfaces, with a 6.5-inch TFT with Connectivity is standard and pairs to your phone for calls, music, and turn-by-turn via the BMW Motorrad Connected app. A USB-C port sits near the bars. Lighting is all LED, with the GS-signature “X” headlight. The two-piece seat measures 33.3 inches stock; BMW lists a 32.7-inch low seat and a 34.0-inch Rallye seat among accessories. Adjustable hand levers are standard, and optional 0.79-inch bar risers help fine-tune fit. The GS Trophy variant brings wider enduro footrests, an adjustable-height rear brake pedal, and a height-adjustable gear lever. Cross-spoked wheels run 100/90-19 front and 130/80-17 rear tubeless tires for a road-to-dirt balance.

Design-wise, the F 450 GS mirrors the big GS family—beak, radiator grille, and the “flyline” from tank to slim tail—with the GS Trophy style calling out Racing Blue Metallic paint, a white frame, white hand guards, an aluminum engine guard, cross-spoked wheels, Riding Modes Pro, Sport Suspension, Gear Shift Assist Pro, and the Easy Ride Clutch. BMW backs it with a broad accessory catalog, including navigation prep with ConnectedRide Navigator or Smartphone Cradle, multiple luggage options, and protection pieces.

As for timing, it's a 2027 model, with BMW stating that we'll see the bike hit dealership floors in Q4 of next year. 

"With the new BMW F 450 GS, BMW Motorrad presents a genuine BMW GS in the 48 hp A2 class. It embodies the essence of a GS: Get on, twist the throttle, have fun - with full control and maximum confidence," said Markus Flasch, CEO BMW Motorrad, adding, "Its low weight, superior performance and perfect balance between agility and stability ensure a particularly intuitive riding experience. Thanks to its precise handling and typical GS expertise, it performs impressively both on and off the road. The F 450 GS is the perfect 'best buddy' for every riding situation. It is uncomplicated, robust, and always ready. It sets the benchmark for sporty adventure bikes in its class."