In mid-January, a group of riders and I moved to southern Spain, an area known for its dry climate, minimal traffic and technical roads. Almería welcomed us with exactly what we come here for in the winter. Stable weather, daily temperatures of around 12 to 16 degrees, dry asphalt and views that you simply won't experience in Slovakia in January.
The goal was clear. To test almost everything that BMW Motorrad offers today across the portfolio, and to do it in real conditions. Mountains, coast, desert sections and even light terrain.
Day 1.
The first day was for introductions, briefings and bike distribution. Then we set off on a 150 km on-road circuit to get everyone used to the pace, surface and character of the local roads.
The following models appeared in the rotation:
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BMW S 1000 XR
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BMW M1000R
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BMW R 1300 RT
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BMW R 1300 R
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BMW M1000R
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BMW F 900 XR
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BMW R 1300 GS
It was clear from the first day that the asphalt was dry, the grip excellent and the roads almost empty. Ideal conditions for testing the chassis, braking and engine response.
Day 2.
Tuesday was the riding highlight of the week. Approximately 300 km of mountain sections, long climbs, technical passages and fast flips.
Here the difference between the sporty XR models and the more comfortable R 1300 RT was fully revealed. Everyone changed bikes at least once during the day. The goal was simple. At the end of the camp, to have personal experience with multiple categories, not just one model.
No rain, no stress, just the rhythm of the turns.
Day 3.
Wednesday belonged to the coast. Driving along the Mediterranean Sea, open views, the contrast of blue water and dry hills.
We stopped for lunch right on the beach. Fresh seafood, a short rest and back in the saddle. This day was less about performance and more about experience. The combination of touring models like the R 1300 RT and naked bikes like the M 1000 R showed how different the same route can be on different machines.
Day 4.
Thursday we reserved for off-road. Not extreme, but technically interesting lighter off-road. Gravel, rocky sections, sand.
The BMW R 1300 GS dominated here, but riders also had the opportunity to compare other models in less ideal conditions. The desert environment around Almeria gives the ride a specific atmosphere. Dryness, open horizon and absolute peace.
Day 5.
The ending was in style. The pace calmed down and models like:
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BMW R 18 Roctane
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BMW R12
The Cruiser and Heritage line showed a different side of riding. Less about time, more about feeling. Photos, feedback, discussion about the differences between the categories.
Motor rotation as the main value
Throughout the week, riders borrowed bikes from each other. In practice, this meant that by the end of the event, everyone had ridden sports, touring, adventure, and classic models.
That's exactly the difference between a regular ride and our test camp. You're not tied to one machine. You can compare throttle response, geometry, chassis, and ergonomics under the same conditions.
The result? A real experience, not a catalog impression.
Almería once again confirmed why we come back here in winter. And this was only January.
