Updated BMW 1200GS revealed
Plus new R1200GS Rallye for 2017
BMW has revealed an updated R1200GS with technical upgrades, styling tweaks and new options for 2017.
The German firm’s flagship adventure bike now has optional ‘Hill-Start Control’, which automatically stops it rolling backwards on an incline. The feature is already offered on BMW’s R1200RT and now comes on the GS as part of an options package which also includes extra off-road-specific riding modes in addition to the standard ‘Road’ and ‘Rain’.
The options package, called ‘Riding Modes Pro’, also now includes BMW’s cornering ABS for ‘greater safety when braking, even in banking position’ plus a ‘dynamic brake light’ which flashes and automatically activates the hazard lights in an emergency stop.
Other options include the ‘next generation’ of BMW’s semi-active suspension system, called Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment, now with ‘an automatic self-levelling function to compensate all load states’.
A new ‘Rallye’ package is offered with ‘tight sports suspension for off-road enthusiasts’ courtesy of an increased spring rate and longer travel.
The R1200GS Rallye (above right) has a smaller screen and comes in a new metallic blue and ‘BMW Motosport’ colour scheme, with the frame also in blue and the drive-shaft in black.
Meanwhile a new R1200GS ‘Exclusive’ edition (above left) comes in ‘monolith metallic matt’ and ‘iced chococlate metallic’ (or grey and brown, in plain English), with a grey frame, black drive-shaft and gold-coloured brake calipers.
Other styling changes include a newly designed air-intake and tweaked fuel tank panels and radiator trim, the latter finished in stainless steel on the Rallye and Exclusive or a ‘galvanised surface’ on other variants.
Ergonomics have been ‘optimised’ in the knee area for ‘further improved off-road qualities’ according to BMW.
The 1170cc boxer-twin engine still makes 125hp but now complies with latest Euro4 emission limits, helped by a new catalytic converter.
The updated model was revealed at the Eicma motorcycle show in Milan, Italy, with price to be confirmed.
Read our BMW R1200GS Adventure vs Honda Africa Twin back-to-back test or watch the video review.
