The BMW GS, with its original twin-cylinder boxer engine, has been synonymous with universal motorcycling pleasure for over 40 years. Whether it’s a touring or long-distance bike, a dynamic ride on the road or a trip off the beaten track, a BMW GS, and especially the new BMW R 1300 GS, is an excellent adventure companion.
With the launch of the R1300GS, BMW is raising the bar even higher with an even more comprehensive offer, both technically and in terms of equipment. For demanding rides and long-distance journeys with lots of luggage, BMW Motorrad now offers the advanced and innovative Vario luggage system for the new R 1300 GS, consisting of two Vario suitcases and a Vario top case.
The design of the Vario suitcases and the Vario top case has been completely updated. The anodized aluminium finish on the outside of the cases and on the Vario top case lid not only offers robust reliability, but also, together with the black plastic case, blends harmoniously into the design of the new BMW R 1300 GS.
In terms of technology and functionality, the new Vario luggage system once again makes a difference. Another highlight is the fact that the luggage system is now electrified. From now on, electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets or laptops can be charged in the luggage compartment of the left Vario suitcase. There is a USB-A charging port that allows charging via the on-board network with a charging power of up to 15 W (5 V / 3 A). Another USB-A port is located in the top case. In addition, the integrated lighting in the Vario suitcases and top case makes loading and unloading at night very comfortable.
Another new feature is that the Vario cases and the top case are integrated into the radio central locking system, which is standard on the new BMW R 1300 GS. In addition, the Vario luggage system also includes mechanical keys with which the cases can be opened and closed. For example, if the radio key is lost.
The volume adjustment of the Vario cases and the Vario top box can now be controlled via a rotary knob (previously there were two preset positions) to make the new BMW R 1300 GS only as wide or as high as necessary, depending on the storage space required.
In total, the new Vario luggage system offers up to 97 liters of capacity. The expansion of the Vario cases increases the luggage volume from approx. 49 l to a maximum of approx. 55 l each. The volume of the top case increases from 28 to a maximum of 36 liters.
The Vario suitcase system can, for example, hold the BMW 7 helmet (left Vario suitcase and top Vario suitcase), while the BMW GS helmet can be placed in the top Vario suitcase. The maximum load of each Vario case is 10 kg per side, while the maximum load of the central Vario case is 6 kg. This makes it possible to carry a total weight of 26 kg.
In addition, luggage can be stowed on the outside of the Vario suitcases and in the central Vario suitcase. You can attach up to 1 kg to the side of each Vario suitcase and a further 2 kg to the top Vario suitcase. We recommend using tension straps to secure additional luggage. For this purpose, there are fixing slots on the lid of the Vario top case. There are also fixing slots on the sides of the Vario topcases.