BMW Motorrad Launches 30 Years of GS Tribute Video

In September 1980, BMW Motorrad introduced a new breed of motorcycles, one that debuted a new era in the industry: the R 80 G/S, a machine that could offer both off- and on-road practicability. This was the moment when a new category was born: the touring-enduro. Now, 30 years later, the GS is the top-selling motorbike in its class in Europe.

"At a difficult time, the GS models not only gave BMW Motorrad fresh growth momentum but above all a future," stated Hendrik von Kuenheim, General Director BMW Motorrad. "BMW GS motorcycles have since become the ultimate symbol of 'freedom on two wheels' - an integral part of our model range... Our concept has often been copied, but never equalled."

Celebrating the model’s 30th anniversary at the recent BMW Motorrad Days event, the German manufacturer also took the opportunity to launch a tribute video that resumes three decades of GS history.

“Thanks to the efforts of our development engineer at the time, Laszlo Peres, we were able to bring out the G/S in just 18 months - and it was a motorcycle concept which was absolutely crazy for that time," said Karl H. Gerlinger Head of BMW Motorrad GmbH in 1980 and responsible for marketing and sales at the time.

"I would never have thought that this machine, based on a motor racing prototype, would be so successful. But I'm still proud of it to this day!" added Laszlo Peres, former technician in the BMW testing department.

A special magazine entitled "BMW Classic live SPECIAL - 30 Years of GS" has also been released by BMW, and is available in German, English, French, Italian and Japanese languages.

For a detailed BMG GS history you can also check our coverstory section.