BMW's R 1200 GS has always sat at the pointy end of the adventure-touring category, but recently the competition has been closing the performance gap. For 2017, BMW looks to regain control of the segment with an updated 1200 GS that meets Euro 4 emissions standards and has some added electronic functions.
Available in Rallye or Exclusive packages that vary in terms of color and protection pieces, the new GS features BMW’s already released air-/liquid-cooled boxer engine with catalytic converter, judder damper on the transmission output shaft, and reworked transmission shafts.
Electronics are updated though, the new GS featuring an optional (and updated) Riding Modes Pro function that opens the door to Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, Enduro, and Enduro Pro riding modes. Each of these incorporates lean-angle-sensitive dynamic traction control (DTC), new Hill Start Control, and ABS Pro (the standard package includes just Rain and Rode riding modes, and featues BMW’s more basic Automatic Stability Control traction control system).
Additional electronics include BMW’s Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” electronic suspension, which automatically adapts to the riding situation damping-wise, as before, but now also has a self-leveling function that enables the bike to compensate for load through automatic spring preload adjustments.
For the off-road-biased Rallye, BMW says that the suspension is optimized for more aggressive riding, with stiffer spring rates, longer spring struts, and added travel. That package also adds a Rallye seat (for easier moving around in off-road riding), a lower-cut windshield, radiator guard, frame guard, wide enduro footrests, and cross-spoke wheels.
The Exclusive is different in that it has cast wheels, as well as BMW's standard windscreen and seat. It's available in what BMW refers to as Iced Chocolate metallic paint, whereas the Rallye is available in Lupine Blue metallic.
Each of the R 1200 GS models have nipped and tucked fairings, with optimized ergonomics in the knee area, and a narrower overall look. And while weight has climbed to right around 538 pounds (from 525 lbs. on the previous-generation R 1200 GS), that's something I've come to expect from a Euro 4-compliant bike. These regulations are forcing manufacturers to beef up the catalytic converters and sprinkle a few other pieces throughout, and while the 1200 couldn't really afford to get heavier, I think BMW has managed the update the best they could; the bike actually looks a lot smaller and less cumbersome than before.
It'll be interesting to see how that translates out on the road/trail, but I have high hopes. I think the new Rallye looks sharp, and the optional updated electronic suspension will be good to try out. And hey, it's still a BMW R 1200 GS, so how could you go wrong, right?
Here’s a closer look at some of the BMW packages and options:
- Dynamic Package:
DTC, LED headlight, Hill Start Control, Shift Assistant Pro, Riding Modes Pro, ABS Pro, LED turn indicator. - Comfort Package:
chrome exhaust system, heated grips, Tyre Pressure Control RDC, hand protector. - Touring Package:
Dynamic ESA, Keyless Ride, On-Board Computer Pro, preparation for navigation unit, cruise control, case holder. R 1200 GS optional equipment items which can be ordered individually.