BMW R 1200 GS Adventure: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
The preferred base for those who convert their motorcycle for long-distance travel
A 30-liter tank, a tubular engine guard as standard, and a subframe designed for the load. This is the GS most often seen with aluminum cases, auxiliary lights, and tents on the luggage rack, and today it costs a fraction of a new Adventure.
- In summaryHuge range and a low used price: the most affordable foundation for a real trip.
- Do immediatelyHeadlight grille, final-drive protection, side stand plate.
- AvoidThe standard GS luggage frames: different mounts.
- SharedWith the R 1250 GS Adventure, much of the frames and brackets.
- BrandsLOBOO, DENALI, Barkbusters, R&G, Endurrad.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 1,170 cc boxer twin, air-liquid cooling |
|---|---|
| Power | 125 hp at 7,750 rpm |
| Torque | 125 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6 speeds, shaft final drive |
| Chassis | Telelever and Paralever, with more travel than the GS |
| Wheels | 19 inches front, 17 rear, cross-spoked |
| Weight | 263 kg in running order |
| Fuel tank | 30 liters, range over 500 km |
| Seat height | 890 mm standard, with lowered options |
| Production | 2014-2018, replaced by the R 1250 GS Adventure |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Tubular engine guard standard: part of the work is already done
- Range that changes the way you plan your stages
- Very attractive used price today
- Plenty of accessories at reasonable prices
- Carries luggage and a passenger without becoming unsettled
Cons
- 263 kg and an 890 mm seat: you need leg length and skill
- Size that makes city riding and parking more difficult
- Fuel consumption increases when traveling fully loaded
- Outdated electronics compared with recent generations
- On heavily used examples, the final drive and swingarm should be checked
What to fit, in order of priority
- 1
Headlight grille with plexiglassOn a touring motorcycle, the mileage is high and the risk of stone impacts increases accordingly. - 2
Driveshaft protectionWith light off-roading and a full load, the final drive is the most exposed part of the rear end. - 3
Oversized side stand plateAt 263 kg plus luggage, the standard side stand sinks into hard-packed ground. - 4
Adventure auxiliary light mountsCode CDJ082C, compatible with the R 1200 GS Adventure and R 1250 GS Adventure. It does not fit the standard GS. - 5
Wanderer semi-rigid cases40+30 or 40+40 liters, waterproof with inner liners: lightweight and easy to repair while traveling. - 6
Waterproof rear bagsAn alternative to the top case that does not raise the center of gravity and can be removed in a minute. - 7
Under-seat side bagsExtra space for tools and documents without increasing the external dimensions. - 8
Vibration-damping gripsOn 600 km stages, your wrists will thank you. Compatible with the standard heated grips.
Compatibility table
| Accessory | From the R 1200 GS | For the 1250 Adventure | For the 1300 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luggage frames | no | often yes | no |
| Auxiliary-light brackets | no | yes | no |
| Sidestand plate | yes | yes | no |
| Driveshaft protection | yes | yes | no |
| Headlight grille | yes | yes | no |
| Luggage cases and bags | yes | yes | yes |
| Grips and mirrors | yes | yes | yes |
Brands with dedicated accessories
LOBOOLuggage and ergonomicsCases, frames, CDJ082C auxiliary-light brackets for the Adventure, sidestand plates.
EndurradProtection and luggageHeadlight grille, driveshaft protection, rear and under-seat bags, heated grips.
DENALILightingLED auxiliary lights and SoundBomb horn, to be paired with the brackets for the Adventure.
BarkbustersHandguardsTwo-point kit for the 2013-2017 generation, shared with the standard GS.
R&G RacingProtectionFrame sliders and engine cover protectors for 2014-2018 models.
Frequently asked questions
Do the standard GS luggage frames fit the Adventure?
No. The rear subframe and the 30-liter tank's dimensions change the mounting points. The luggage cases themselves are the same, though: by changing the frames, you can move them from one bike to the other.
What changes compared with the R 1250 GS Adventure?
Engine and electronics. The chassis is very similar, which is why several luggage frames and the CDJ082C auxiliary-light brackets fit both: it is one of the few cases where two generations are compatible.
Is it too demanding as a first maxi enduro?
Yes, if you have no experience. At 263 kg with an 890 mm seat height, it is not very forgiving during maneuvering and slow off-road riding. The standard GS, or an F 850 GS, are more manageable choices.
How much does it cost to set it up for a long trip?
Less than any other Adventure, because the engine guard is already standard and accessories have been on the market for years. You need luggage, headlight and driveshaft protection, a sidestand plate, and lighting.
Is it worth buying today?
It is the basis for the trip with the best price-to-capacity ratio available. As with all used bikes with high mileage, check the driveshaft, suspension, and condition of the Telelever.