2012 BMW R 1200 GS, 2012 BMW R 1200 GS

What a motorcycle. For some people it’s a universal tool which practically never fails them - whether on a local run, the daily journey to work or weekend trips with or without gravel passages. For others it’s a way of life - just the right machine for every tour, whether a one-week trip for two into local motorcycling territory or fulfilling the dream of a lifetime thousands of miles away from home. The “GS” is not just able to handle everything, it is actually built to do so. And in this synthesis of easy handling, supreme touring suitability, off-road potential and comfort for rider and pillion passenger, there’s simply no other motorcycle which does it better. That’s not just what we think: it’s the result of independent tests worldwide.

Yet the current version goes one step further still - with a level of 2-cylinder power which is unsurpassed, and not just within its own segment. The reason is the new DOHC engine*, which first displayed its impressive performance in the legendary HP2 Sport. For the R 1200 GS, torque was given higher priority than output in line with practical considerations. And you can feel it. 88 ft-lb of torque at the peak at 6000 rpm is one thing, but the consistently higher level of torque in the relevant range up to 5000 rpm can be fully experienced. The output has been increased to 110 hp at 7750 rpm.

The engine with 110 hp offers unlimited freedom to the rider. It is equally serene on tarmac and rough terrain alike so now the only restriction on your touring is how homesick you get. The BMW R1200GS because even the most free of spirits needs something to rely on.

The versatility and sheer performance of the GS is partly due to the famous boxer engine which is at the heart of the awesome machine. Now updated with double over head cams, the motorcycle offers more torque at lower revs, improved responses and better acceleration across the rev range, making the bike even better both on and off-road.