The BMW GS Adventure (GSA) is genuinely, without a doubt, a world-class, motorcycle. Whether it's London to Cape Town, The Road of Bones, or The Pan-American Highway; The GS Adventure has been there and is a proven expedition platform. The problem with the GSA however is sometimes I see more kitted out bikes at the local coffeeshop than I do actually out there seeing the world. Murph's GSA isn't one of those coffee-shop bikes. A quick look at it confirms this bike is actually used, and there's nothing cooler than that.
This bike is all about the functional details, and in Murph's words - 'Doesn't look like it's been dragged through a Touratech catalog.'
He purchased the 2004 BMW R1150 GS Adventure in December of 2009 with low miles, and since then, it's been his home on the road. With over 44,000 miles logged, he's never had a serious issue with the motorcycle.
Last week he stopped by the Overland International HQ to say hello to some old friends, and to chat a bit about his travels. He's heading to California to ship his bike to Europe, where he intends to ride around the world, with his mother in a sidecar. Awesome, I think so.
If you're not familiar with Murph's travels, or his website wherethehellismurph.com check it out!
He also maintains a thread on the forum which you can check out here. [link]
While it's not really 4 Wheel Drive - He happens to be a big fan of the Land Cruiser.
He has a sweet, lockable drawer system that goes beneath his panniers.
An additional fork bag for storage.
It seems like everything has a place on this bike.
Fire, next to Fire, clever.
The first motorcycle that Murph owned was an Indian - He's still a huge fan today, and often gets people remarking that his bike is 'one of the most interesting Indians they've seen.
Easy access to fluids.
There's a variety of switches and outlets all over the bike to control the auxiliary lighting and to keep his devices charged on the road.
One of my personal favorites was a marine compass - a great backup and solution to a dead GPS.
It's apparent that some thought has gone into this bike, the first thing you notice is a prominent red bag with a First Aid Kit inside.
According to Murph, one of the few mechanical upgrades he's done to the bike is to remote mount the fuel filter for easy access.
A variety of full size warn lights graces the front of the bike, when you've been on the road for two years, light is a good thing.
He's carrying a new set of lights with him for a special project he has in store.
The jacket is just as interesting as the man.
