2017 BMW R1200 GS range
BMW Motorrad’s top-seller in Australia and the most popular adventure tourer worldwide, the R 1200 GS has been updated for 2017, with the lineup both broader and better than before.
The locally-available MY17 range boasts four model variants instead of the previous two, with the entry-level R 1200 GS the only carryover from 2016. The GS Adventure is gone and in its place are three variations on the base model: the GS Rallye; GS Rallye X; and GS Tour. The latter variant has been a part of past GS lineups, but both the Rallye and Rallye X are all-new, offering what BMW says is “additional product substance.”
Rallye X variants are fitted with the ‘Dynamic Package’, while the Tour takes this and adds the ‘Touring Package’ of extra features. Both packages are available as extra-cost options on the base R1200 GS and GS Rallye - $2,250 for the Dynamic Package, $2,450 for the Touring Package. Mechanically, the R 1200 GS is largely unchanged for 2017, but there have been a few tweaks, while the rider assistance systems have been upgraded and expanded, there are new styling and colour choices, plus more ergonomic options and a greater range of optional accessories. Styling changes across the lineup include a redesigned front ‘beak’ that adds aerodynamic winglets to the trailing edge. There are also new trim panels for the fuel tank and air intake, as well as restyled air ducts and radiator trim.
The new variants get their own distinctive finishes in terms of decals, paint and trim, to define them against the base model.
Standard Spec
The latest R 1200 GS doesn’t deviate too far from its established winning formula, with the Boxer twin, 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive that have defined the model carrying over largely unchanged for the 2017 range. Output from the air/liquid-cooled 1170cc boxer twin is 97kW at 7750rpm, with maximum torque of 125Nm arriving at 6500rpm (unchanged from 2016), but the catalytic converter has been altered and new engine management software has been employed to meet EU4 emission standards. Other driveline changes include revised transmission shafts, a new damper on the transmission output shaft and a modified selector drum actuator. Standard features include heated grips, tyre pressure monitoring, centre stand, two-piece seat, hand guards and the two selectable riding modes - ‘rain’ and ‘road’. The riding modes control the Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which remains as per 2016, ABS and (if fitted) Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), as well as the throttle response.
Rallye X, Tour Upgrade
Over these standard electronic aids, the GS Rallye X and GS Tour come with an additional ‘Riding Modes Pro’ setting, which adds ‘dynamic,’ ‘enduro,’ ‘dynamic pro’ and ‘enduro pro’ to the riding mode menu as part of the Dynamic Package. The latter two modes have customisation settings, which allow the various electronic aids to be adjusted – or switched off – to suit individual preferences. The Pro upgrade also adds Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which provides safer and more controlled acceleration, even when the bike is leant over, as well as Hill Start Control. Dynamic mode delivers more immediate throttle response for tarmac riding, sets the ABS to “road” levels, reduces the DTC intervention and firms up the Dynamic ESA for sharper handling on twisty roads.
Dynamic Pro allows for individual selection of the throttle response and DTC regulation.
Enduro mode also reduces DTC intervention, but softens power delivery for lower-speed off-road work and recalibrates the ABS response to suit loose surfaces. Dynamic ESA response is also adjusted in this mode.
Like Dynamic Pro, the Enduro Pro mode allows for individual selection of each function and includes the ability to switch off ABS to the rear wheel, allowing for controlled slides on gravel and other loose surfaces. Adding the Dynamic Package to the base or Rallye R 1200 GS now also adds ABS Pro for improved braking safety when cornering, and a two-stage brake light. The Touring Package (standard on the GS Tour) adds cruise control, keyless operation, On Board Computer Pro, navigation preparation function, pannier fastenings and the Dynamic ESA. The latter is also standard on the GS Rallye X.
SPECS - 2017 BMW R 1200 GS (base model)
ENGINE
Type: Boxer flat twin
Displacement: 1170cc
Bore x Stroke: 101mm x 73mm
Compression Ratio: 12.5:1
Induction: EFI
Cooling: Air/water
Power: 92kW @ 7750rpm
Torque: 125Nm @ 6500rpm
Exhaust: 2-into-1
TRANSMISSION
Gearbox: 6-speed
Final Drive: Shaft
Clutch: Wet, anti-hopping
CHASSIS
Frame: Tubular steel bridge-type
Front Suspension: BMW Telelever, 190mm travel
Rear Suspension: BMW EVO Paralever, 200mm travel
Front/Rear Wheel: Multi-spoke cast alloy, 19-inch Fr, 17-inch Rr
Front/Rear Tyre: 120/70 R19 / 170/60 R17
Front Brake: Twin 305mm discs w/four-piston Brembo caliper and ABS
Rear Brake: Single 276mm disc w/two-piston Brembo caliper and ABS
DIMENSIONS
L x W x H: 2207mm x 953mm x N/A
Wheelbase: 1507mm
Rake: 25.5 degrees
Trail: 99.6mm
Seat Height: 850mm
Weight: 244kg wet
Fuel Capacity: 20 litres
COLOURS
Light White, Black Storm metallic, Lupin Blue metallic (Rallye, Rallye X only), Iced Chocolate metallic (Tour only)
PRICE
From $21,850 + ORCs
2-year, unlimited km warranty w/roadside assist
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