BMW R1200GS

Description

The **BMW R1200GS** is an iconic adventure touring motorcycle, highly respected for its diversity of ability, its robustness, and performance on both roads and off them.

Here are some interesting highlights about it:

### **Overview**
– **Manufacturer**: BMW Motorrad
– **Production**: Manufactured starting in 2004, ongoing with successive updates.
– **Category**: Adventure/Touring
– **Nickname**: Often referred to as the “GS” or “go-anywhere bike.”

### **Engine and Performance**
– **Engine Type**: 1170cc air/liquid-cooled boxer twin engine.
– **Power Output**: Around 125 hp at 7,750 rpm (92 kW)
– **Torque**: Around 125 Nm at 6,500 rpm (92 lb-ft)
– **Transmission**: Hard to beat for simplicity, durability, and low maintenance: 6-speed manual with a shaft drive system.

### **Key Features**
– **Telelever Front Suspension**: For better, more stable handling and less front-end dive under braking.
– **Paralever Rear Suspension**: Boosts stability and also reduces the shaft effect.
– **Riding Modes**: Usually features “Rain,” “Road,” “Enduro,” and “Dynamic” modes to suit various conditions.
– **Electronic Features**: Usually equipped with high-end systems such as ABS, traction control, and semi-active suspension (depending on model year and trim).
– **Fuel Capacity:** Approximately 20 liters, making for a great range over distance.
Usability
– **Weight:** About 244 kg wet weight, which should be easily handled by most users given the size and power.
– **Comfort**: Designed for long-distance comfort with an upright riding position, adjustable windscreen, and ergonomic seating.
– **Off-Road Capability**: Strong build, high ground clearance, and the possibility of putting on off-road tires make it very popular with adventure riders.

### **Variants and Successors**
– The R1200GS was succeeded by the **R1250GS** in 2018; it had a bigger engine (1254cc) and featured BMW’s ShiftCam technology, ensuring better power delivery and efficiency.
– Others, such as the **Adventure (GSA)** variant, are fitted with larger tanks, better off-road hardware, and comfort amenities.

### **Why It’s Loved**
– The R1200GS is the perennial favorite among adventure riders due to its dependability, stature, and agility on paved and dirt roads alike. It has starred in several popular documentaries such as **”Long Way Round”** and has attained iconic status as the bike that defined the adventure class.