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History

At its launch in 2004, the R1200GS was 30 kg (66 lb) lighter than the R1150GS it replaced,and produced 100 bhp (75 kW), an increase of 19%. BMW continued to produce the R1150GS Adventure, releasing a final run-out special edition model,before launching the R1200GS Adventure at the end of 2005, for the 2006 model year.

In 2007, upgrades were made to both models for the 2008 model year. Power was increased to 105 bhp (78 kW), a new Integral ABS II anti-lock braking system was released without servo assistance and new options were added including electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) and the Automatic Stability Control (ASC) traction control system.

For the 2010 model year, both models will have a revised cylinder head with double overhead camshaft, increased redline limit to 8,500 rpm, and an exhaust flap to give the exhaust a different tone. Power is increased to 110 hp (82 kW) @ 7,750 rpm.
Rear view of motorcycle fitted with panniers, top box, and extra soft luggage
A R1200GS Adventure equipped for touring

Popularity

The R1200GS is the best selling motorcycle that BMW has built, on 3 August 2007 it produced the 100,000th model.In 2006, the R1200GS was the best selling motorcycle in the United Kingdom. The two models had combined sales of 2,227 units, compared with the next best selling bike, the Honda Fireblade which sold 2,067 units.Nearly one third of the 100,000 units sold by BMW Motorrad worldwide in 2006 were R1200GS.In 2008, the R1200GS was once again BMW's best selling motorcycle, with 22,845 standard models and 12,460 Adventure models being delivered.
Black and yellow BMW R1200GS motorcycle, being ridden around a corner on a race track by a rider in a blue and grey suit
A dual purpose bike can be used on track as well as off road

In 2007, the bike was popularised by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, who used the Adventure model for a trip from John o' Groats in Scotland to Cape Agulhas in South Africa.The trip was documented in a book and television series Long Way Down.

The R1200GS was featured in several episodes the BBC Two television programme The Hairy Bikers' Cookbook, ridden by chefs Dave Myers and Si King.

Safety issues

The R1200GS has been affected by a number of safety issues since launch. The United Kingdom Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) has issued nine separate vehicle recalls covering the front brakes,anti-lock braking system,throttle cable,fuel pump,clutch,final drive assembly,brake pipes,and gearbox.Similar recalls have been issued in other countries.