The new BMW R 1300 GS has just arrived in dealerships and we can already see the first customized version of this travel Enduro: the R 1301, created by the Swiss team VTR Customs.
VTR-BMW R 1301 – 5-7 kilos lighter with a shortened rear
VTR, an official BMW dealer in the town of Schmerikon, located on the shores of Lake Zurich, has gained international fame for its radical BMW motorcycle conversions. In early 2024, VTR Customs presented its first project based on the new BMW R 1300 GS, renamed the R 1301.
A more compact and lightweight design
The R 1301 features a shortened rear end, currently in the prototype stage, which could be produced in small quantities if there is sufficient demand. The front fender has also been shortened, and the overall weight of the bike has been reduced by around 5-7 kg, according to Dani Weidmann of VTR Customs. While the weight saving isn't drastic, the bike is closer to the 250 kg mark. Interestingly, VTR hasn't removed the centerstand, which could have contributed further to the weight reduction.
Custom accessories and supersport tires
The R 1301 features short levers and a small, tinted windshield, available as original BMW accessories. Forged aluminum wheels are a factory option, while Metzeler M9RR supersport tires were chosen to ensure excellent grip while maintaining the 19-inch front wheel, which ensures the typical GS handling. Furthermore, Kellermann Atto mini turn signals and the distinctive "X" on the LED headlight, made even more eye-catching by a yellow film, complete the bike's aesthetic.
"Attrapovic" and sporty finishes
For the exhaust system, VTR opted for a black powder-coated stainless steel muffler, inspired by Akrapovic, but with a tongue-in-cheek twist in the name: "Attrapovic." The headers are wrapped in black heat-resistant tape. The 1,300 cc boxer engine, producing 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, requires no major modifications. Finally, the R 1301 sports the sporty colors typical of BMW M, with "M-Grey" accents created by Freuler AG, and a custom seat by Yves Knobel.
A 40,000 euro customization
There BMW R 1300 GS The basic model, with sports suspension and forged aluminum wheels, is priced at 25,900 Swiss francs (approximately 27,000 euros). The R 1301 customization costs 15,000 Swiss francs (approximately 15,750 euros), bringing the total price of the bike to 40,900 Swiss francs (approximately 43,000 euros). However, the price of the R 1301 has been set at 37,800 Swiss francs (approximately 40,000 euros), making it an attractive offer. Production of the R 1301 edition is not limited, and customers can request color variations or other customizations.
In February 2024, VTR Customs presented its first conversion based on the new BMW R 1300 GS, offering a sportier, more compact, and lighter version. Priced at around €40,000, the R 1301 is a one-of-a-kind motorcycle, but with the option of further customized variants based on customer needs.