The New BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure

Contents
1. The New BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure 
2. Output and Torque 
3. Specifications 
4. Range of Colors

1. The New BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure

The main features of the new BMW R 1200 GS and the new BMW R 1200 GS Adventure at a glance:
* New, even more dynamic drivetrain now with two overhead camshafts per cylinder and valves in radial arrangement

* Increase in engine output by 5 per cent to 110 hp at 7,750 rpm and maximum torque to
88 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm

* Increase in maximum engine speed from 8,000 to 8,500 rpm with an even wider range of useful engine speed

* Significantly better acceleration, torque and pulling power

* Electronically-controlled exhaust flap for even more muscular sound

* Color variants of the R 1200 GS: Alpine White non-metallic, Magma Red non-metallic, Ostra Gray matt metallic, Sapphire Black metallic

* Color variants of the R 1200 GS Adventure: Smoke Gray matt metallic, Brilliant Yellow metallic

* Optional extras and accessories tailored to each model with BMW’s usual high level of quality

* New auxiliary light in LED technology for the R 1200 GS (accessory).

New, even more powerful drivetrain with extra torque for even greater driving dynamics both on-road and off-road
Introducing the new BMW R 1200 GS and the new R 1200 GS Adventure, BMW Motorrad is opening up yet another chapter in the story of highly successful GS models which, for almost three decades, have been the epitome of the large-capacity grand touring enduro.

Moving on from the former generation of the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure, which already offered supreme power and performance as well as a very broad range of practical riding qualities for long tours combined with supreme pleasure on winding country and mountain roads, BMW Motorrad is now enhancing this standard, as impressive as it already is, to an even higher level.

In its construction principle and fundamental layout, the new flat-twin power unit is the same as the DOHC engine on the BMW HP2 Sport, but marking the new generation, the engine has been carefully updated and optimized for the R 1200 GS and the R 1200 GS Adventure, tailored to the specific requirements of a grand touring enduro.
With the 1,170-cc Boxer engine on the former models already ensuring supreme power under all conditions and in all situations, the new R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure have even more to offer in virtually every respect:  Delivering maximum output of 110 hp, increasing maximum engine speed by 500 rpm to 8,500 rpm, and with an even broader range of engine speed, the new GS models are even more dynamic, powerful and muscular in terms of both torque and acceleration throughout the entire speed range, thus setting the standard once again for the grand touring enduro in terms of performance and riding dynamics.

New DOHC cylinder heads for even more efficient cylinder charge.
Designed and built from the start for higher engine speed, the new flat-twin power unit in the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure, like the power unit featured in the BMW HP2 Sport, comes with two overhead, chain-driven camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder. The valves are operated by very light rocker arms able to cope with very high engine speeds through their low weight alone. Radial arrangement of the four valves is ensured by the very compact combustion chambers. As on the former models, the fuel/air mixture is ignited by two spark plugs (HP2 Sport: one spark plug), and the compression ratio of 12.0:1 is also the same as before.

Both models are designed to run on premium grade fuel, but thanks to efficient knock control, the engine will be able to operate on a lower grade of fuel in an emergency.  In this case, there may be a small loss of torque and a slight increase in fuel consumption as soon as knock control cuts in.

Horizontal arrangement of the camshafts in the direction of travel gives the new flat-twin power unit two particular technical features: Each camshaft controls one intake and exhaust valve and, due to the radial arrangement of the valves, the cams come with a conical profile. To increase both output and torque, fuel-air flow has been increased throughout the entire speed range by increasing valve plate diameter over the former models from 36 to 39 mm (1.42–1.54 in) on the intake side and 31 to 33 mm (1.22–1.30 in) on the exhaust side.

Intake and exhaust timing on the two camshafts has been optimized in particular for supreme power at low and medium engine speeds and for even faster, free-revving engine performance throughout the entire range. To increase the free valve cross-section, valve lift is up from 10.54 mm (0.415 in) on the intake and 9.26 mm (0.365 in) on the exhaust side to 10.8 mm (0.425 in) on both sides. Valve clearance is compensated by light semi-hemispherical shims.

More power and extra torque throughout the entire speed range
The existing ratio of bore and stroke of 101/73 millimeters (3.98/2.87 inches) remains the same as before, as does the engine’s cubic capacity of 1,170 cc. Other features likewise carried over from the former power unit are the crankshaft and connecting rods as well as their mounts and bearings, while the two new cast-aluminum pistons have been re-designed to match the change in combustion chamber geometry.

Interacting with the upgraded intake system, now featuring black instead of silver throttle butterfly manifolds as on the former models, measuring 50 mm (1.97 in) instead of formerly
47 mm (1.85 in) (HP2 Sport: 52 mm/2.05 in) opening clearance and with newly designed intake air funnels and an air filter element with a higher air flow rate, the engine now develops maximum output of 110 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and peak torque of 88 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm. An oil cooler ensures stable thermal conditions even when riding in extreme conditions.

In all, the modifications to the drivetrain provide a significantly more homogeneous flow of power and torque throughout the entire speed range. In this process of technical development, the engines now feature magnesium-colored cylinder head covers with two instead of the previous four fastening bolts and come in new, even more dynamic design. A valve cover guard made of aluminum or plastic as well as a chrome-plated aluminum cylinder head cover may be retrofitted as special equipment.

Electronically-controlled exhaust flap for even more muscular sound
Moving on to the exhaust system, the two manifolds are the same as before in their design, length and diameter, while a modified interference pipe handles the change in vibration conditions in the exhaust system.

Featuring an exhaust flap controlled by an electric motor as well as opening and closing cables, both the new BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure provide a particularly throaty boxer sound naturally in full compliance with legal standards. And to reduce ram pressure and improve the sound of the engine even further, the rear silencer, remaining the same in design as on the former models, comes with a completely new interior structure.

Ideal transmission of power through six-speed transmission and drive shaft
Power is transmitted as before by the proven six-speed transmission with larger bearing diameters and a modified distance between the individual shafts, already upgraded technically for the 2008 model year. In the process the gear ratios were once again adjusted and the final drive ratio has been modified from 2.82:1 to 2.91:1.  The transmission of the R 1200 GS Adventure has a shorter first-gear ratio (2.60:1) than that of the R 1200 GS (2.38:1).

In conjunction with the new, even more powerful engine, this once again means significantly more torque and pulling force throughout the entire range of engine speed.

The new R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure also benefit from optimized shift kinematics with an optimized power/travel curve for precise gearshift and clear feedback at all times.

The maintenance-free drive shaft to the rear wheel also remains unchanged, relieving the rider of annoying and time-consuming maintenance requirements particularly on long tours.

Proven running gear and high-performance brakes with Integral ABS
Like their predecessors, the new R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure offer an almost perfect synthesis of off-road and on-road riding qualities. As before, the stiff and torsionally-resistant suspension, front wheel guidance with the unique BMW Telelever, and the rear wheel incorporating the BMW Paralever contribute to first-class riding qualities, along with the increased performance of the new engine.

In conjunction with optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, extremely powerful brakes serve additionally to contribute to maximum safety even in critical situations. Optimum environmental compatibility, finally, is ensured also on the new boxer engine through the most advanced exhaust gas management with a fully-controlled three-way catalytic converter.

Enduro ESA as special equipment for optimum electronic adjustment of the suspension for every purpose
Designed and built for the specific requirements of a grand touring enduro, Enduro ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), available also on the latest version of the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure as an option straight from the factory, allows adjustment of the suspension under all kinds of running conditions and with virtually any load level, simply by pressing a button. An important feature is that Enduro ESA offers both an on-road and off-road mode within which the rider, choosing specific settings for the spring base and damping, is able to adjust the suspension even more precisely to specific needs and requirements.

As usual, Enduro ESA meets the particular requirements made of a grand touring enduro by additional electro-hydraulic adjustment of the spring base on the front spring strut. When riding off-road, this ensures a far smoother ride without the wheel losing traction and without the disadvantages otherwise experienced on-road such as shorter negative spring travel or greater seat height.

Optimum ergonomics and even more practical features
Made of a heat-treated aluminum tube, the high-quality and sophisticated handlebar, interacting with two asymmetrically-mounted clamps turning by up to 180 degrees may be fitted in two ergonomically different positions. While the rear position for riding on-road and in less demanding terrain ensures optimum ergonomics particularly for the shorter rider, the front handlebar position offers advantages particularly when standing up on the machine in rough terrain.

The hand protectors available as special equipment for the R 1200 GS are fitted as standard straight from the factory on the R 1200 GS Adventure. In the process of technically upgrading the successful R 1200 GS models, the instrument cluster has received a new dial in a new design. And last but not least, the windshield now comes with larger adjustment knobs for greater ease in adjusting its position.

Optional extras and accessories tailored to both the rider and the machine
As a genuine, fully-fledged systems supplier, BMW Motorrad has developed a wide range of optional extras and special equipment for further customization of the new R 1200 GS and
R 1200 GS Adventure. One particularly important new feature is the auxiliary light in LED technology.

Optional extras come directly from the factory and are fitted during production at the Berlin Plant, while accessories and special equipment are fitted subsequently by the BMW Motorcycle Dealer.

Optional Extras
* Enduro ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment)

* BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (semi-integral, on-demand)

* TPM (Tire Pressure Monitor)
 
* ASC (Automatic Stability Control)
 
* Chrome-plated exhaust system

* Heated hand grips
 
* Hand protection (standard on Adventure)

* Saddle bag mounts (Adventure: saddle bag mounts for aluminum case)
 
* Cross-spoke wheels (standard on Adventure)

* On-board computer with oil level warning

* Low seat (R 1200 GS)

* Low suspension (R 1200 GS)
 
* Anti-theft alarm system with remote control
 
* Off-road tires (Adventure).
 
* Fog light (Adventure)
 

Special Equipment
Cases
* Vario case (GS) / aluminum case (Adventure)

* Saddle bag mounts (GS) / Saddle bag mounts for aluminum case (Adventure)*

* Vario top case (GS) / Aluminum top case (Adventure)
 
* Top case fastening elements replacing passenger seat (R 1200 GS)
 
* Top case support
 
* Inner bags for vario and aluminum case/top case
 
* Back padding for vario and aluminum top case.
 
* Carrier handle for aluminum case
 
* Watertight tank bag
 
* Watertight tank bag, small (R 1200 GS)
 
* Softbag 2, large, 51 liters
 
* Softbag 2, small, 19 liters

Design
* Chrome-plated cylinder head covers

* Carbon fiber front fender
 
* Carbon fiber rear splashguard

* HP Carbon fiber cover for engine housing

* Headlight protector (for off-road use only)
 
* Auxiliary LED light
 
* Holder for auxiliary light

* LED direction indicators*

Sound
* Akrapovi? sports muffler

Ergonomics and Comfort
* Tinted Windshield

* Wide enduro footrests (standard on Adventure)

* Adjustable footbrake lever (standard on Adventure)

* Handlebar cross reinforcement
 
* Padding for handlebar cross reinforcement
 
* Rider’s seat, low (820 mm/32.3 in) (R 1200 GS)*
 
* Additional power socket

* Heated hand grips*

Navigation and Communication
* BMW Motorrad Navigator IV

* Holder for BMW Motorrad Navigator

* Navigator “function” carry bag

Safety
* Hand protection (standard on Adventure)*
 
* Spoiler guards, large, for hand protection

* Aluminum cylinder head protection cover (standard on Adventure)

* Plastic cylinder head protection cover

* Engine protection bar kit (R 1200 GS)
 
* Enduro aluminum engine guard

* Anti-theft oil filler cap

* Anti-theft alarm system with remote control*

Maintenance and Technical Equipment.
* Paddock stand
 
* Work light (plugs into on-board power socket)

* Also available as an optional extra from the factory.

2. Output and Torque

<< download to view chart >>

3. Specifications

BMW R 1200 GS  BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
Power Unit
Capacity      cc   1,170   1,170
Bore/stroke     mm   101/73    101/73
Max output     hp   110    110
at      rpm   7,750    7,750
Max torque     lb-ft   88    88
at      rpm   6000    6000
Configuration       Flat-twin    Flat-twin
No of cyls        2    2
Compression ratio/fuel grade      12.0:1/Premium unleaded 12.0:1/Premium unleaded
Valve layout         DOHC    DOHC
Valves per cylinder       4    4
Intake/exhaust valve dia    mm   39/33    39/33
Throttle butterfly dia     mm   50    50
Engine management      BMS-K+    BMS-K+
Exhaust management       Fully-controlled  Fully-controlled
          three-way catalytic converter three-way catalytic converter
Electrical System
Alternator      W   720    720
Battery      V/Ah   12/14, maintenance-free  12/14, maintenance-free
Headlight         H7    H7
Starter      hp   1.5    1.5

Power Transmission/Gearbox
Clutch      type/dia.  Single-plate dry clutch/180mm  Single-plate dry clutch/180mm Transmission       Dog-type six-speed gearshift  Dog-type six-speed gearshift
Primary ratio       1.737    1.737
Gear ratios I       2.375    2.600
          II       1.696    1.696
          III       1.296    1.296
          IV       1.065    1.065
          V       0.939    0.939
          VI       0.848    0.848
Rear-wheel drive       Drive shaft    Drive shaft
Final drive ratio       2.91    2.91
Running Gear
Frame        Tubular steel frame,  Tubular steel frame,
          load-bearing power unit load-bearing power unit
Front wheel guidance       BMW Telelever   BMW Telelever
Rear wheel guidance       BMW Paralever   BMW Paralever
Overall spring travel, front/rear    in   7.5/7.9    8.3/8.7
Castor      in   4.0    3.8
Wheelbase      in   59.3    59.5
Steering head angle     °   64.3    63.8
Brakes      front   Dual disc brake, dia 12.0 in  Dual disc brake, dia 12.0 in
rear   Single disc brake, dia 10.4 in  Single disc brake, dia10.4 in
Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral
ABS (semi-integral, on-demand) ABS (semi-integral, on-demand)
Wheels        Cast    Cross-spoke
          front   2.5 x 19    2.5 x 19
          rear   4.0 x 17    4.0 x 17
Tires      front   110/80 R 19   110/80 R 19
          rear   150/70 R 17   150/70 R 17

Dimensions and Weight
Length, overall     in   87.0    88.6
Width, overall, with mirrors    in   36.6    37.6
Handlebar width, without mirrors    in   36.6    37.4
Seat height     in   33.5    35.0
Dry weight      lb   448    492
Wet weight      lb   504    564
Max permissible weight   lb   968    1045
Tank capacity     gal   5.3    8.7

Performance Data
Fuel consumption     90 km/h ltr/100 km  4.3    4.6
          120 km/h ltr/100 km  5.5    6.1
Acceleration     0–62 mph, sec  3.7    3.95
Top speed      mph   125 plus    125 plus

New surface and color design
The new R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure demonstrate their enhanced dynamics through new surface design and colors.

Ostra Gray matt metallic gives the R 1200 GS a particularly technical touch. Sapphire Black metallic, on the other hand, gives the new R 1200 GS a very masculine look, while the two non-metallic paintwork options in sophisticated Alpine White and brilliant Magma Red highlight the sporting off-road ambitions of the new R 1200 GS.

On the R 1200 GS Adventure, Smoke Gray metallic emphasizes the almost rustic, masculine character of the machine, while Brilliant Yellow metallic accentuates its sporting off-road qualities. In particular, the second color variant forms an exciting contrast to the seat finished in Black Olive Gray.

The new throttle butterfly manifolds are finished in Black.