03.12.24 – Day 33 North of Thailand
Si Thep to Rasi Salai: A Journey of Comfort and Adventure on the BMW R1250 GS
The sun was just beginning to rise over the ancient ruins of Si Thep as we packed up for the long ride back home. It was 7 a.m., and the roads were waiting—long, open highways leading us south-and eastward toward Rasi Salai, where we would end this incredible 33-day journey. The plan was simple: take the main highways, burn some fuel, and enjoy the smooth ride back. A total of 470 km lay ahead, and there was no better bike for the job than the BMW R1250 GS Adventure.
The BMW GS: The Perfect Machine for Long-Distance Riding
A 470 km stretch on Thailand’s highways can be grueling, especially when you’re traveling with a passenger. But with the BMW GS, it felt like we were cruising effortlessly, eating up the kilometers with no sign of fatigue. If you’ve ever wondered what makes the GS such an ideal companion for long-distance travel, the answer is simple: comfort and control.
The GS isn’t just about performance—it’s about making sure you, the rider, and your p. assenger feel good, even after hours of riding. Unlike many other bikes, the GS offers exceptional ergonomics that keep your back, shoulders, and legs comfortable during those long stretches on the highway. Even with the added weight of a pillion, the GS remained stable, smooth, and responsive, making overtakes and high-speed cruising a breeze.
What really sets the BMW GS apart, especially on a trip like this one, is its ability to make long hours on the road feel effortless. I’ve ridden many bikes in my time, but nothing compares to the level of comfort the GS provides. After 470 kilometers of highway riding, my back wasn’t sore, my shoulders weren’t stiff, and my butt wasn’t aching. It’s no exaggeration to say that this kind of comfort is something you can only experience with a big bike like the GS.
Reflections on the 2024 Northern Thailand Trip
This journey to the North of Thailand has been an unforgettable adventure. In total, we spent 33 days on the road, covering a distance of 5,500 km. We visited ancient ruins, explored vibrant cities, and experienced the stunning landscapes of Thailand in ways that few get to see. Every day on the road, the GS took us farther and farther, with no sign of discomfort or mechanical failure.
We spent 11,000 THB on fuel throughout the trip, which seems like a lot, but when you’re riding a machine like the GS, you appreciate every drop. The bike’s fuel efficiency, combined with its massive tank capacity, meant fewer stops for refueling and more time on the road.
Accommodation didn’t come cheap, but it was all part of the experience. Over the course of the trip, we spent 29,000 THB on hotels. The key was comfort—finding places to rest that provided the same level of relaxation after a long day of riding. Thailand has no shortage of beautiful places to stay, from scenic resorts in the mountains to cozy guesthouses in small towns.
When it came to food, we didn’t hold back. 10,000 THB on meals may sound like a lot, but in Thailand, eating is more than just fueling up—it’s a cultural experience. Whether it was street food in Chiang Mai or a sit-down meal in a local restaurant, every meal added another layer to the adventure.
Entrance fees to temples, parks, and historical sites totaled just 1,000 THB—an absolute bargain for the amount of cultural and historical knowledge we absorbed along the way.
Is It Worth It?
At the end of the day, we spent a total of 51,000 THB for this incredible journey. Every Baht was worth the money, especially when you consider the experiences, memories, and joy we gained from this adventure. If you’ve ever thought about taking a long-distance trip on a motorbike, I can tell you that the BMW GS makes it all possible—and comfortable. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to motorcycling, this bike is built for the kind of adventures you dream about.
As the sun began to set over Rasi Salai, we reflected on the journey that had just concluded.
We had covered vast distances, seen breathtaking landscapes, and experienced Thailand in a way that only a motorcycle can offer. This trip, made possible by the BMW GS, was one for the books—an adventure I’ll remember for a lifetime.
If you’re considering your next big motorcycle adventure, look no further than the
BMW R1250 GS. It’s more than just a bike—it’s the key to unlocking the kind of travel that leaves you with stories to tell and a heart full of memories.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!
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