One of the most successful motorcycles in the world has just seen an extensive overhaul for the 2013 model year. The BMW R1200GS has a new water-cooled engine and extensive refinements that Munich hopes will keep it on top of the ever-growing heap of adventure-touring motorcycles.

There's a lot to like on the new Beemer.
125 horses at 7700 RPM for a start. The DOHC valvetrain (introduced in 2011) means less noise and maintenance. Chassis improvements mean less weight and better handing. Here's a short video from BMW extolling the virtues of the new GS:

What's new? Here's a list- big breath....

An overview of highlights of the new BMW R 1200 GS:

• Completely newly designed engine for top-level riding dynamics within the travel enduro segment.
• Capacity 1170 cc, rated output 92 kW (125 bhp) at 7700 rpm and a maximum torque of 125 Nm at 6500 rpm.
• Cylinder heads with vertical through-flow for increased efficiency and performance.
• Compact air/water cooling for optimum heat management.
• Basic engine with compact, light and yet rigidity-optimised crankshaft.
• Vertically separated case in open deck construction.
• 6-speed gearbox integrated in engine housing, including wet clutch with anti-hopping function and reduced lever operation force.
• New intake system for optimum output and torque with 52 mm throttle valve diameter.
• E-gas for improved ridability, running smoothness and special functions.
• Innovative exhaust gas system with electronically controlled exhaust flap for optimum performance characteristics and an earthy boxer sound.
• Freely selectable riding modes “Rain”, “Road”, “Dynamic”, “Enduro” and “Enduro Pro” with three different electromotive throttle actuator settings in conjunction with ASC (Automatic Stability Control), ABS and ASC settings for off-road riding as well as different mode-specific Dynamic ESA settings (option ex works).
• New suspension with torsionally stiff tubular steel bridge frame and bolt-on rear frame.
• Optimised lightweight cardan shaft drive now running on the left-hand side.
• Newly developed and optimised Telelever at front and EVO Paralever at rear for an even more precise ride feel.
• Refined master chassis geometry data and long swingarm for excellent traction.
• Optimised seating width and position, and adjustable handlebars for even greater comfort.
• Optimised ground reach for rider (inner leg length).
• Tire/wheel dimensions of 120/70 R19 at front and 170/60 R17 at rear as a world first, tailored specially to the R 1200 GS.
• Revised BMW Motorrad brake system with radially mounted Brembo Monobloc brake calipers at front and 2-piston floating caliper with enlarged brake disc at rear (Ø 276mm, previously 265mm).
• BMW Motorrad Integral ABS as standard.
• Semiactive suspension Dynamic ESA (ex works option).

• Main headlight with optimised light efficiency and LED daytime running light (ex works option).
• World’s first motorcycle with LED main headlight featuring integrated daytime running light (ex works option).
• New vehicle electrical system with partitioning of functions.
• Extended electric switch units.
• Electronic cruise control (ex works option).
• Preparation for navigation unit with Multi-Controller to operate the
BMW Motorrad Navigator IV (ex works option).
• Windshield with one-hand operation for excellent wind and weather protection.
• Seat with multiple adjustment functions for perfect ergonomics.

• Number plate carriers quick to dismount for off-road riding.
• Increased ground clearance (+ 8 mm)

• New instrument cluster with on-board computer as standard. PRO on-board computer as an option.

• Four main paint finishes to choose from:

Alpine White, Racing Red, Blue Fire and Thunder Grey Metallic  

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