The R 1200 GS Adventure is the go-anywhere motorcycle from BMW. Developed to let the rider explore the world comfortably, the R 1200 GS Adventure is based on the R 1200 GS which is the highest selling adventure bike in the world.
While the Adventure looks exactly like the R 1200 GS, there are a few things that makes this adventure bike special. The 30-litres fuel tank means a much better range, but that has also made the bike heavier and bulkier. Beginning with the fascia, fuel tank panels and the tail section – everything looks big on this motorcycle. Even the dual seats have been designed to look bulkier and at the same time provide ample amount of comfort. Unlike the R 1200 GS, the Adventure gets spoked wheels which is a boon for off-roading. The fat exhaust on the right side makes the bike look intimidating.
In terms of features and technologies, the R 1200 GS Adventure is no slouch. It is equipped with riding modes - dynamic, dynamic pro, enduro, and enduro pro. Each of these modes incorporate lean-angle-sensitive dynamic traction control (DTC), Hill Start Control, and ABS Pro. But these features are dependent on the variants the owner opts for. There’s also Dynamic ESA electric suspension which automatically adapts to the suspension setup depending on the riding style. The windshield is large and adjustable.
The R 1200 GS gets its power from 1170cc boxer engine that produces 125bhp at 7750rpm and peak torque of 125Nm at 6500rpm. This motor is mated to a six-speed gearbox that transfers power to the rear-wheel via a shaft drive.
The R 1200 GS Adventure tips the scale at 263kg and has the maximum speed of slightly over 200kmph. The bike is 2255mm long, 980mm wide and 1450mm tall. With a seat height of 890mm, the R 1200 GS Adventure is quite tall for an average Indian.
BMW is selling the R 1200 GS Adventure as a completely-build-up (CBU) unit from Germany. Its direct rival – the Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro and the Tiger Explorer are also priced similarly. While the former is a new bike, the latter hasn’t been updated for a very long time now.