How Much Power Does the 2021 BMW R 1250 GS Make?

It’s fair to say that the BMW R 1250 GS is a favorite among large-displacement ADV competition in its current iteration and previous models. Cycle World Editor-in-Chief Mark Hoyer noted its exceptional capability in his first ride review of the 2019 model, “Performance from the GS is pretty remarkable, especially given its size and weight.” Totally.

The last major update to the GS came during the 2019 model year, when BMW overhauled the machine with an all-new, larger-displacement 1,254cc flat-twin engine utilizing the manufacturer’s variable-valve-timing system, called ShiftCam described here by Technical Editor Kevin Cameron. The goal of the update was to comply with the stricter Euro 5 emissions standards, while delivering a more flexible and powerful engine.

Ahead of an upcoming comparison test with similarly sized adventure bikes, we placed the 2021 BMW R 1250 GS on the Cycle World dyno to gather our own horsepower and torque measurements. The BMW recorded a peak 117.39 hp at 7,770 rpm and 91.48 pound-feet of torque at 6,510 rpm. Note that by 2,000 rpm, there is nearly 80 pound-feet of torque available, followed by a controllable plateau that makes it an efficient adventure tool on and off-road.

No wonder it is a favorite.