2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Specs & Review

A big-tank, go-far adventure motorcycle built around BMW’s classic boxer twin, the 2013 R 1200 GS Adventure targets riders who want durability, range, and comfort in harsh terrain and on long highway days. If you’re cross-shopping rugged ADV machines, the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure specs paint a picture of a torque-rich, long-legged tourer with serious off-road intent.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1170 cc
• Engine: Air/oil-cooled flat-twin (boxer), DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
• Power: 110 hp @ 7750 rpm
• Torque: 120 Nm / 88 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
• Wet weight: 256 kg / 564 lb (ready to ride, fully fueled)
• Seat height (adjustable): 890–910 mm / 35.0–35.8 in

Engine & Performance

At the core is BMW’s air/oil-cooled 1170 cc boxer twin with DOHC and four valves per cylinder. It’s fed by electronic fuel injection (BMS-K+) with twin-spark ignition, breathing through a 12.0:1 compression ratio and a 101.0 x 73.0 mm bore and stroke. The result is a rated 110 hp at 7750 rpm and a stout 120 Nm (88 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm—figures that translate to confident passes on the highway and relaxed two-up touring.

In the city, the broad torque plateau helps you short-shift and surf the midrange without constantly rowing the 6-speed gearbox. An Enduro-focused short first gear (standard) makes tight U-turns, loaded starts, and rocky climbs easier to manage. Out on backroads, the boxer’s distinctive pulse and strong pull from low to mid revs make for engaging, low-effort progress. A single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated, offers precise feel, and the shaft (cardan) final drive with a 2.91 ratio keeps maintenance low while delivering smooth, direct drive.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Seat Height

Chassis poise comes from a two-section tubular steel frame that uses the engine-gearbox as a stressed member, paired with BMW’s Telelever front suspension offering 210 mm of travel and a Paralever single-sided swingarm in the rear with 220 mm of travel. This setup helps the GSA stay composed on patchy pavement and washboard tracks, keeping the front end stable under braking and the rear planted when the trail turns choppy.

The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure seat height is adjustable between 890–910 mm (35.0–35.8 in). Taller riders will appreciate the roomy triangle, while shorter riders should test fit, as the combination of height and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure weight—256 kg (564 lb) wet—can feel demanding at low speed or on off-camber stops. The 1510 mm (59.4 in) wheelbase contributes to straight-line stability when loaded for travel. Standard wind protection is generous: a large windscreen with side deflectors reduces fatigue on long rides, while hand guards and engine and tank protection bars boost durability when tackling rougher routes.

Cross-spoke wheels with a 110/80 R19 front and 150/70 R17 rear strike a balanced compromise between dirt capability and on-road agility, helping the bike feel surefooted on gravel while remaining predictable on asphalt.

Equipment & Features

Braking is handled by dual 305 mm floating discs with 4-piston calipers up front and a single 265 mm disc with a 2-piston caliper at the rear. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral) is standard and disengageable, giving confidence on the road and flexibility off it. Fuel range is a strong suit thanks to the 33 L (8.7 US gal) tank—ideal for remote stretches between stops.

Standard equipment includes ABS, cross-spoke wheels, engine and tank protection bars, a large windscreen with side deflectors, hand guards, a center stand, and that massive 33 L tank. The package is rounded out by the 6-speed transmission, shaft final drive, and the rugged frame designed for carrying luggage and taking knocks.

Who Is the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure For?

This is an adventure platform best suited to intermediate and experienced riders who prioritize range, durability, and comfort over compact size. Commuters will enjoy the stability and weather protection, while long-distance tourers and overlanders will love the big tank and protective hardware. New riders may find the height and mass challenging; the adjustable seat helps, but the bike is undeniably substantial. If your riding includes gravel, forest roads, and extended highway stints, the GSA’s suspension travel and short first gear provide a welcome edge.

Torquepedia Verdict

If you want a tough, long-haul ADV with classic boxer character, the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure delivers. The engine’s 110 hp and 120 Nm provide easy momentum, the Telelever/Paralever suspension smooths out broken terrain, and the standard protection and 33 L tank speak to real-world adventure readiness. Switchable ABS adds confidence without compromising off-road control.

Weaknesses? The high seat and significant weight will limit accessibility for some riders and require attention at low speeds. But judged as a big ADV platform, the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure specs and standard kit make it a compelling, well-rounded choice for riders who truly travel.

FAQ

• Is the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure good for beginners? It’s manageable but not ideal for most beginners due to its 256 kg (564 lb) wet weight and 890–910 mm seat height.

• What is the seat height of the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure? The seat height is adjustable between 890–910 mm (35.0–35.8 in).

• How heavy is the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure? Wet weight is 256 kg (564 lb), ready to ride and fully fueled.

• What are the power and torque figures? It makes 110 hp at 7750 rpm and 120 Nm (88 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm.

• Does it have ABS and can you turn it off? Yes. It features BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral), and it is disengageable.