BMW R 1200 GS 2008By Thierry WeylandThe king of the GT trail bike segment benefits from a few improvements for 2008. On the agenda: a livelier engine, a few aesthetic retouches and a more extensive catalogue of accessories. Enough to further reinforce the extraordinary efficiency of this “all-terrain” motorcycle. Renouncing nothing of the original concept of the GS (Gelände Strasse: off-road/road) series born in 1980 BMW has, for 2008, focused on improving certain details of the latest upgrade of the R 1200 GS motorcycle. Launched in 2004, it ushered in the new generation of the boxer twin engine, whilst achieving an extraordinary breakthrough in terms of handling. It was an immediate hit, with over 75,000 machines sold, making it the most popular BMW motorcycle in the world. In these circumstances, it is understandable that the German manufacturer is today content with making just a few alterations here and there. Spot the difference…This new 2008 version of the R 1200 GS therefore remains perfectly in the tradition of its predecessor, including in terms of aesthetics, since only some details have changed: a slightly redesigned front mudguard, stainless steel tank deflectors, LED rear light, magnesium-coloured wheels and fork covers… Here, technology and design are closely linked to form a raw and very powerful whole! It has, of course, been given a trim worthy of the Bavarian manufacturer’s reputation.  © BMW A gazelle crossed with a draft horseThe R 1200 GS remains the same fair-sized – even intimidating – machine that we were familiar with, to be recommended for riders with long, sturdy legs… Sitting – or rather perched – on the 850 mm-high seat (low seat option available), now with improved upholstery, one discovers a new depth-adjustable handlebar with two positions, but the riding position is unchanged. The two cylinders placed on either side don’t get in the way at all and, on the contrary, give a feeling of safety by protecting the ankles. There is no perceptible reflected heat, even in summer. The first runs reveal an unsuspected agility, thanks to remarkable balance and a very low centre of gravity, as on all BMW flat twins. In fact, in the city, only the width of the motorcycle slows you down in traffic jams, but the large handlebar facilitates slow speed manoeuvres, which are easily anticipated thanks to the panoramic view of the traffic that you have at this height… Even livelier engineThe engine, slightly modified to deliver 5 hp more (now 105 hp), immediately demonstrates a more virile tone, which you also feel with acceleration, which is never violent but energetic to say the least, to the point of involuntarily taking the weight off the front wheel during slightly too forceful acceleration in the lower gears. The second and sixth gears have been modified, whilst the shift kinematics have also been revised. Having said that, the gear changes remain typical of BMW – still slower than on the Japanese machines. Another source of satisfaction, already present upon the transition from 1150 to 1200 cc in 2004, is that the twin cylinder now revs up even more freely, with a red zone now set at 8,000 rpm. Lastly, to face up to this motorcycle’s aptitude for adventure, the Euro-3 engine is capable of running on 98- or 95-octane unleaded petrol, or even on ordinary petrol, without any specific intervention. Average fuel consumption is 6.5 l/100 km (62 miles).  © BMW A tool on the open road!Outside the urban context, the GS 1200 is in its element, displaying unsuspected ease and efficiency on all routes, whatever the weather. The intuitive and reassuring original chassis with trellis frame, Telelever front axle and single-sided swing-arm Paralever (maintenance-free shaft drive), provides an excellent standard of comfort, whilst being capable of veritable feats on winding little secondary roads. The only slight criticism is the feedback from the front axle is rather unusual, particularly when braking, but also when cornering. On the other hand, the dual-purpose tyres cannot be faulted. Excellent during manoeuvring phases, the GS can also change into a tireless long-haul traveller, lavishing the rider and passenger with first-class comfort. The vast catalogue of “made-to-measure” options provides the opportunity to add the final touches to the original equipment.  © BMW Adjustable suspension with handlebar controlsFeaturing among the numerous options now offered is the Electronic Suspension Adjustment system with handlebar controls (which can be operated even while riding), in a special Enduro configuration. A veritable damping-control computer, this ESA system controls the spring struts and hydraulics at the front and rear of the motorcycle, allowing the rider to choose the best configuration according to the terrain (on- or off-road), load (driver only, pillion use, etc.) and the type of riding (comfort, sport, etc.). In off-road mode, ground clearance increases by 2 cm, enabling the GS to make more than a good impression provided, however, that the rider has the necessary technical knowledge and that the motorcycle is fitted with knobbly tyres if the ground is slippery. This system, priced at £500, is highly efficient, its effect being immediately perceptible on suspension behaviour. This technology is currently exclusive to BMW and is now used on many motorcycles in its range. Integral ABSThe R 1200 GS is equipped with BMW integral braking, combining ABS and a sports-type combined braking system. The anti-lock braking system now no longer uses electronic braking assistance, so it is much more progressive, but still has an unusual feel that you have to get used to. The integral system here opts for front and rear brake control via the right-hand lever, with the pedal only braking the rear. One of the advantages of the Telelever front suspension is to maintain higher stability when slowing down: it is disconcerting to start with, but very effective in the end.All in all, this 2008 upgrade of the R 1200 GS presents an obvious advantage in that its engine is livelier and its gearbox more precise and robust. The ESA option also gives real added value to this motorcycle, which remains a great tourer, but can also be easily used on a day-to-day basis. At £9,195 without options (available in the UK from January 2008), the GS represents a substantial investment, but no other GT trail bike is as sophisticated at the present time. Another important economic factor when it comes to choosing: BMW motorcycles keep a very high value on the second-hand market. Technical dataEngine type: air-cooled 8-valve flat twin Displacement: 1,170 cc Fuel supply: electronic injection Power: 105 hp at 7,500 rpm Torque: 115 Nm at 5,750 rpm Gearbox: 6-speed Final drive: shaft Frame: steel trellis Suspension: Front: Telelever; Rear: Paralever Front brake: twin disc (305 mm); Rear: single disc (265 mm) (Integral ABS optional) Front tyre: 110/80 x 19; Rear: 150/70 x 17 Seat height: 850/870 mm Fuel tank capacity: 20 litres Weight: 229 kg Practical: Colours: slate grey, silver, orange and blue Warranty: 2 years parts and labour, unlimited mileage Price: £9,195 Place of manufacture: Germany Web site: www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk Our measurements Top speed: over 200 km/h (125 mph) Average fuel consumption: 6.5 l/100 km Average fuel range before reserve: 250 km (155 miles) |
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