2012 BMW R 1200 GS Specs & Review

If you’re cross-shopping big adventure bikes, the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS specs explain why this boxer-powered icon became the benchmark. It blends a characterful twin-cylinder engine with long-travel suspension and practical ergonomics for riders who split time between daily miles and weekend escapes. This BMW R 1200 GS review focuses on the core hardware that made it such a versatile machine.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Air/oil-cooled flat-twin (Boxer), DOHC, 4 valves/cyl, twin-spark
• Displacement: 1,170 cc
• Power: 110 hp (81 kW) @ 7,750 rpm
• Torque: 120 Nm (88 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm
• Wet weight: 234 kg (516 lb)
• Seat height: 850 mm (33.5 in) standard; 870 mm (34.3 in) high
• Type: Adventure

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the R 1200 GS is BMW’s 1,170 cc air/oil-cooled boxer twin. The figures—110 hp at 7,750 rpm and 120 Nm at 6,000 rpm—translate to lively real-world thrust with a strong midrange. It’s the kind of output that makes brisk highway passes effortless and keeps fun riding engaging without constant high revs. Twin-spark ignition and 50 mm (1.97 in) throttle bodies, managed by BMW’s BMS-K+ electronic injection, deliver clean fueling and a predictable throttle.

The six-speed gearbox uses a dry single-plate hydraulic clutch and a shaft final drive (2.91). Ratios are thoughtfully spaced (2.38 / 1.70 / 1.30 / 1.07 / 0.94 / 0.85) so you can chug around town or settle into a relaxed cruise. Efficiency is part of the pitch: BMW lists 4.30 L/100 km (54.7 mpg US) at 90 km/h, and the 5.3 US gal (20.0 L) fuel capacity—including a 1.0 US gal reserve—supports serious range between stops.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 1200 GS Seat Height

BMW’s Telelever front and EVO Paralever rear suspension define the GS feel. With 190 mm (7.5 in) of front travel and 200 mm (7.9 in) at the rear, it soaks up rough surfaces while keeping the chassis composed. A 1,507 mm (59.3 in) wheelbase, 64.3° steering head angle, and 101 mm (4.0 in) trail skew the GS toward stability, yet the 19-inch front (110/80 R19) and 17-inch rear (150/70 R17) respond neutrally when you pick up the pace on twisty pavement or gravel connectors.

BMW R 1200 GS seat height versatility is a highlight. The standard setting is 850 mm (33.5 in), with an adjustable/high seat at 870 mm (34.3 in). If you’re shorter or want more flat-foot confidence, BMW offered an optional low seat at 820 mm (32.3 in) and an optional lowered suspension seat at 790 mm (31.1 in). For taller riders, the high position opens knee angle and legroom on long days.

BMW R 1200 GS weight is listed at 234 kg (516 lb) wet, with a 203 kg (448 lb) dry figure. In practical terms, the mass is typical for the class but carried low thanks to the boxer layout, which helps balance at walking speeds and when threading through traffic. Combined with wide bars and a neutral riding posture, the GS builds confidence in a variety of environments.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is stout: dual 305 mm (12.0 in) front discs with 4‑piston fixed calipers and a single 265 mm (10.4 in) rear disc with a 2‑piston floating caliper. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS is fitted (disengageable; standard in US MY2012), bringing welcome security on wet roads and loose surfaces. Emissions are handled via a closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter meeting EU-3 standards.

Electrical capacity is generous for travel accessories, with a 720 W alternator @ 14 V and a 12 V / 14 Ah maintenance-free battery. Other useful details include the 2210 x 930 x 1450 mm overall dimensions, a 64.3° steering head angle for planted steering, and the shaft final drive for low-maintenance touring.

Who Is the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS For?

The R 1200 GS suits experienced riders who value versatility: commuting during the week, sport-touring on the weekend, and light adventure exploring when the pavement ends. Newer riders can grow into it, but the standard BMW R 1200 GS seat height and the BMW R 1200 GS weight may be intimidating at first—those optional lower seat setups help. If you prioritize long-range comfort, stable handling, and a torquey characterful engine over outright off-road focus, this GS is squarely in your wheelhouse.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a package, the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS nails the fundamentals that define an all-rounder. The boxer delivers accessible torque, the six-speed/shaft combination is built for high-mile durability, and the Telelever/Paralever suspension brings long-travel comfort with road-biased precision. Brakes are powerful with intelligent ABS, and the electrical system is ready for heated gear and touring add-ons.

Weaknesses? The standard seat height and wet weight can challenge shorter or newer riders, though BMW’s factory low options address that. If you want a single-bike garage that handles commuting, touring, and exploring without drama, the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS specs read like a blueprint for exactly that.

FAQ

• Is the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS good for beginners?
  It’s manageable but sizable. With 110 hp and a wet weight of 234 kg (516 lb), it’s better suited to confident riders or beginners who can leverage the optional low seat (820 mm) or lowered suspension seat (790 mm).

• What is the seat height of the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS?
  Standard seat height is 850 mm (33.5 in), with an adjustable/high option at 870 mm (34.3 in). Optional low seat is 820 mm (32.3 in), and an optional lowered suspension seat is 790 mm (31.1 in).

• How heavy is the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS?
  Wet weight is 234 kg (516 lb); dry weight is 203 kg (448 lb).

• Does the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS have ABS?
  Yes. It uses BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (disengageable; standard in US MY2012).

• What is the fuel capacity and fuel economy?
  Fuel capacity is 5.3 US gal (20.0 L), including a 1.0 US gal reserve. Listed consumption at 90 km/h is 4.30 L/100 km (54.7 mpg US).