Motorcycle specifications BMWR 1200 GS 2013 The start of another road

gelände Straße. Two words little known to the general public, not necessarily better known in the motorcycle world, but whose initials initiated a new genre, almost a new world: GS. With the creation of the R 80 G/S, BMW gave the trail bike its letters of nobility. A machine capable of taking you from the periphery to the plains of the Serengeti. This philosophy still applies today.
As history leads species to perpetual evolution, the R 1200 GS in 2013 closes a colossal chapter in Behemoth history, to open that of a new engine generation. This bike, the brand's best-seller, ushers in the revolution that everyone has been waiting for and/or dreading for decades: the flat-twin goes liquid-cooled!!!!

the Bavarian Boxer of the 21st century.

a shock! Total, complete, almost unimaginable. The Boxer is attached to BMW history as an emblem, a vocation, a serial engine. With the distinctive feature (among others) of being air-cooled, even in the 21st century. Why be so stubborn? Ducati did return its liquid twins 25 years ago... Because this is an icon! Changing the type of cooling is not a technical challenge, but a psychological mutation. So we had to do things right, with elegance and efficiency.

BM purists should pick up a Tranxen 200 right away. In the bowels of the Boxer, almost everything has changed. But the engineers' tour de force is to have preserved a look very similar to the previous generation. A quick glance would lead us to believe that only the intake and exhaust are different. And the little fins are still there. That's right, because they're still part of the cooling system. The new flat combines both technologies to evacuate heat. The role of the liquid circuit is to calm the fever where it heats up most, on the cylinder head side and in certain parts of the cylinders. The radiators are cleverly tucked away to preserve the typical look of the flat. A fine job, punctuated by an extra 2.7 kilos of weight. In any case, it had to be done to comply with noise and pollution standards.

A second shock to whet the appetite? Send in the sprockets. Another special feature of the Boxer is its separate gearbox. Few manufacturers keep this type of construction. On the vast majority of motorcycles, engine and gearbox are a single unit.
This is no longer the case for the German Flat. The 6-speed gearbox and clutch are now integrated into the engine casing. This eliminates the need for separate lubrication, saves weight and space, and the engineers have taken the opportunity to redesign the gear ratios.
Oh, I forgot, the clutch is no longer dry. It's now a set of 8 oil-immersed discs, with an anti-dribble system. The old dry single-plate clutch had an external diameter of 180 mm; the new one is 147 mm. Another space-saving feature.

Despite all this technical upheaval, internal dimensions remain unchanged. As with the previous 1200, total cubic capacity is 1170 cm3. Bore and stroke are exactly the same, with a ratio of 101 x 73 mm. Should we expect the same performance?
Certainly not, as the list of engine evolutions is far from complete. Let's keep it simple: volumetric ratio increased from 12:1 to 12.5 : 1, a 1 mm increase in valve diameter (40 intake and 34 exhaust), a lighter, more compact and more rigid crankshaft, 52 mm fuel injection (previously 50), new camshafts, vertical intake gas flow, new engine management electronics, new exhaust system with motorized flap (for noise). That's the gist of the 50-page press kit, without going into too much detail.
This major technical overhaul is paying off. The flat twin is now much more lively. 125 hp now, peaking at 7,700 rpm. That's 15 more than the previous GS, at almost identical rpm. A small gain in torque too: 1.5 kg. The liquid 1200 develops 12.7 mkg at 6,500 rpm, while the air-cooled 1200 offered 12.2 mkg at 6,000 rpm.

a totally redesigned GS.

equipped with an all-new engine, the R 1200 GS had to offer an assertive visual presence. The identity remains, the styling is more incisive, the angles are sharper, and there's a clear break with the old model. The beak is still there, but it has grown fangs. Above it, a magnesium support underlines the enduro look and supports the spout, instrument cluster, headlamp and bubble adjustment mechanism. The side scoops push forward; these "claws" are mainly used to hide the new liquid-cooling radiators. Less spectacular, the rear end still exudes an impression of robustness.

Being comfortable on a GS is also one of this machine's great assets. It's a big bike, but it manages superbly in many areas, ergonomics being one of its favourites. Here, the tank is more compact, the handlebars more solid and can swivel through 10°, the rider's seat can be adjusted in inclination and in two heights (850 or 870 mm), and the passenger's can be adjusted longitudinally. After that, the range of accessories lets you fine-tune all this.

On the road, the 1200 GS now faces a plethora of competitors. Its throne is under attack, and although the stronghold has not yet fallen, BMW's best-seller is acquiring as many assets as possible to take it to the next level of quality in the segment. With chassis upgrades and a host of electronic reinforcements, the bike is a technological monster, a veritable HP4 of the off-road world.
Now that the engine manufacturers have gone into overdrive, it's time to turn to the chassis designers. Let's start by fitting radial brake calipers, preferably Brembo monobloc. ABS is standard, and the front discs retain their 305 mm size, while the rear disc is enlarged from 265 to 276 mm.
Now for the wheels. BMW has decided to increase the contact surface. The front is no longer a 110 on a 19" rim, but a 120. The increase is twice as great for the rear: from 150 to 170, on 17" rims. The rims are also wider, from 2.5" to 3" and from 4" to 4.5" respectively.
As for in-house technologies, the Telelever has been redesigned. Its plunger tubes have been reduced from 41 to 37 mm for identical rigidity. A steering angle of + / - 42° is thus maintained, despite the new peripheral radiators.
As you may have noticed, the gimbal and exhaust have swapped positions. By moving to the right, the muffler won't burn your calf during a manoeuvre on tricky terrain, or your arm when you're lifting the wheel after a bowl. This third-generation Paralever EVO has been further improved in terms of power transmission. It's also longer without compromising rigidity.
To tie it all together, a new reinforced, continuous perimeter tubular steel frame with bolt-on rear frame rests on the load-bearing motor. All these elements should make this evolution of the GS both more stable and easier to handle.

semi-active suspension and steering.

to ensure supremacy both on and off-road, to prove technological mastery, to remain segment leader, a good chassis and a good engine are essential, but are no longer enough. You need chips, sensors, active management and silicon brainpower. No problemo, the R 1200 GS liquid cooled has all this and more. What would homo motardus think?
" I want to ride everywhere!
- Hop on! I've got everything I need," replied Miss GS 2013.
"- I want comfort that adapts, and safety too.
- Just get in.
- I want....
- GET IN, DAMN IT!?!"
Don't tickle the GS too much. When it comes to on-board technology, we're on a par with a Superbike.
The throttle on the R 1200 GS is now ride-by-wire. This not only makes for smoother acceleration, but also allows the addition of cruise control (optional). For the dynamic side of things, the suspension can be equipped with electronics. Unfortunately, all this is optional. A pity, as it's very interesting. Let's take a look:
ASC and control modes. The 1200 GS equipped in this way provides five riding modes, with three throttle response laws, three ABS levels and four ASC traction control settings. Select "Rain", "Road", "Dynamic", "Enduro" or "Enduro Pro", and the system will manage your riding style.
need custom suspension without the headache of tools? The R 1200 GS offers it. Combined with the previous option, the 1200 GS adapts in real time to the terrain according to your riding style. Sensors "read" the road and automatically adapt damping. BMW is thus in direct competition with the Skyhook system on the new Ducati Multistrada. What about all this?

On wet roads and in difficult grip conditions, the driver is supported in "Rain" mode by smooth throttle response and metering, while still having full power at his disposal. ASC responds earlier than in "Road" mode. When the GS is equipped with the Dynamic ESA option, the damping of the front and rear spring/damper combinations is rather soft, conforming to prevailing conditions.

In "Road" mode, the steering aids are set to achieve optimum performance on dry roads. This mode offers a spontaneous, linear response to acceleration, and combines a smooth dosage with even torque delivery.

In "Dynamic" mode, the BMW R 1200 GS becomes sporty on the road. An even more spontaneous and direct response to acceleration, discreet ASC intervention and, with the Dynamic ESA option, even firmer damping bring out the bike's full potential.

In "Enduro" mode, the R 1200 GS is at its best off-road. Smooth acceleration response, discreet ASC Enduro control, optimum brake force distribution and ideal ABS behavior, combined with the optional dynamic ESA suspension setting for optimum traction. This mode is optimized for use with standard tires.

For ambitious enduro riders, BMW offers the"Enduro Pro" mode. This riding mode, characterized by spontaneous engine response, is designed for use with studded tires. when the brake pedal is depressed, the ABS function is deactivated at the rear, while the optional dynamic ESA switches to a damping system that favors traction and optimizes heel-toeing behavior. ASC is designed for professional enduro riding, and allows considerably more wheel slip.

high-tech before your eyes.

a BM also means a sideways glance. This is still the case, except that the optical unit has been improved. It's lighter, more efficient, and as you'd expect, the main change is only available as an option. The GS can be fitted with a new, much more powerful and efficient LED daytime running light, with a choice of automatic or manual activation. A luminous "U" becomes the GS's new distinctive feature, like the luminous rings on the brand's cars or the K 1600 GT / GTL. A heat-sink system acts as a cooler or, if required, as a demister/defroster.
New bike, new dashboard. Surprising from the outside, its functions and appearance place it halfway between the old instrument cluster and the over-equipped K 1600. No TFT screen, but a trip computer as standard. To get the most out of it, you'll have to (still) go for the optional extras, especially for enduro riders.

aiming for supremacy

the new R 1200 GS takes a huge leap forward, especially with its completely redesigned Boxer. It's ready to face not only competition that has grown considerably in recent years, but also a new chapter in its existence. This change may not be as significant as the creation of the GS, but it promises to be a major turning point, perhaps more serious than the birth of the R 1100 GS. Competitors have been trying to unseat it for years; with this new version, the GS can drive wherever it pleases.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos

Options :
- ASC (Automatic Stability Control) traction control and steering modes.
- RDC tire pressure control.
- Dynamic ESA semi-active suspension.
- Pre-equipment for navigation system.
- DWA anti-theft alarm system.
- Heated grips.
- LED turn indicators under white glass.
- Chrome exhaust system.
- Low seat height (820 mm).
- Lowering kit.
- Cross-spoke wheels.
- LED headlight with daytime running light.
- daytime running lights.
- Pro on-board computer.
- Left/right suitcase holder.
- Hand protectors.
- Cruise control.

Active package :
- ASC traction control and steering modes.
- Cruise control.
- daytime running lights.

Comfort Pack :
- Left/right suitcase holder.
- LED indicators under white glass.
- Hand guards.
- GROUND FLOOR.

Tourism Pack :
- Dynamic ESA.
- Left/right luggage rack.
- Chrome exhaust line.
- Heated grips.
- Pro on-board computer.
- LED indicators under white glass.
- Hand guards.
- Pre-equipped for navigation system.

Dynamism Pack:
- Dynamic ESA.
- ASC traction control.
- Steering modes.
- Pre-equipped for navigation system.
- LED headlights.
- LED indicators under white glass.
- Pro on-board computer.

Accessories.

For safety.
- Enduro cylinder guards.
- Enduro engine mount.
- Oil tank safety cap.
- DWA anti-theft alarm system.
- Headlight protector (off-road only).
- Hand protectors.

For transport.
- Vario suitcase left/right.
- Vario topcase.
- Support for topcase on luggage rack.
- Luggage rack to replace passenger seat.
- Inner bag for Vario suitcase.
- Inner bag for Vario topcase.
- Backrest for Vario topcase.
- Support for Vario case.
- Tank bag, large, waterproof.
- Tank bag, small, waterproof.

For the look.
- LED turn signals under white glass.
- Additional LED headlight.
For sound.
- Akrapovic sport muffler

For ergonomics and comfort.
- Rallye saddle with luggage rack (890 mm, non-adjustable).
- Rider seat (850/870 mm).
- Low rider seat (830/850 mm).
- High rider seat (870/890 mm).
- Adjustable brake lever.
- Rider footrest with flexible, adjustable inner plate.
- Wide footrest.
- Tinted windscreen.
- Heated handles.

For navigation and communication.
- BMW Motorrad Navigator IV.
- Function bag for Navigator.

For maintenance and technology.
- Additional socket.
- LED lamp for power socket.
- On-board tools with maintenance set.
- Workshop stand.
- Battery charger.
- Set of barrels.