The BMW R1150 GS Adventure (GSA) isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a legend in the adventure biking world. Built tough, designed for long-distance journeys, and with a look that never gets old, this bike has earned its iconic status. This is one of our workshop favourites, now in Portugal.

At the heart of the R1150 GSA is its air/oil-cooled 1130cc boxer engine. This thing is rock solid. I love it for its reliability, with my silver one presently at over 180,000 miles without any major fuss. It’s the kind of bike you can take on a cross-country trip without worrying about whether it’ll hold up. But it’s not just about reliability. The R1150 GSA is built to go anywhere. Its long-travel suspension and BMW’s clever Telelever front end mean it handles rough terrain like a pro. Dirt roads, mountain passes, you name it—this bike can tackle it. Plus, with its massive 30-litre fuel tank, you can ride for ages without needing to stop for fuel, which is a big win if you’re out in the wild.

And then there’s the look. The R1150 GSA has a design that turns heads. Its asymmetric headlights and rugged frame give it an unmistakable presence on the road. Even now, years after its debut, it’s still one of the most recognisable and admired adventure bikes around. If you want a bike with serious character, this one’s hard to beat.