2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Specs & Review

BMW’s big boxer ADV is built for riders who want to cross continents one gravel road at a time. With a massive tank, long-travel suspension, and proven shaft drive, it’s a go-anywhere machine. In this BMW R 1200 GS Adventure review, we break down the 2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure specs that matter for real-world riding.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: Air/liquid-cooled twin-cylinder boxer (DOHC, 4 valves/cyl)
• Displacement: 1170 cc
• Maximum power: 125 hp (92 kW) @ 7,750 rpm
• Maximum torque: 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) @ 6,500 rpm
• Wet weight (curb): 263 kg / 580 lb
• Seat height (adjustable): 890 / 910 mm (35.0 / 35.8 in)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the GSA is BMW’s 1170 cc boxer twin, delivering 125 hp at 7,750 rpm and 125 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The broad, low-slung cylinders keep weight centralized and the power delivery smooth, making it easy to modulate in traffic yet muscular enough for spirited backroad runs. A 6-speed constant-mesh gearbox and an oil-bath wet, anti-hopping clutch help clean up downshifts when you’re hustling on tight tarmac or descending loose fire roads.

Fueling is handled by electronic injection (BMS-X) with 52 mm throttle valves, providing crisp response in all conditions. For touring riders, BMW lists fuel consumption of 54.7 mpg US at 55 mph and 39.9 mpg US at 75 mph, so the big boxer can sip when you settle into a cruise. The shaft (cardan) final drive reduces routine maintenance compared to chain-driven rivals, and the quoted top speed is over 125 mph (200+ km/h), more than enough for open-highway stretches.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Seat Height

Long days in the saddle are the GSA’s specialty. The BMW Telelever 37 mm front end with a central spring strut delivers 210 mm (8.3 in) of travel and notably reduces brake dive, while the rear BMW EVO Paralever (WAD) shock gives 220 mm (8.7 in). Combined with a 3.0 x 19 in cross-spoke front wheel (120/70 R19 tire) and a 4.5 x 17 in rear (170/60 R17), the chassis stays composed on broken pavement and dirt alike.

The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure seat height is 890 / 910 mm (35.0 / 35.8 in), adjustable to suit taller riders who want room to move when standing off-road. Shorter riders will need to account for the height, especially at low speeds or on cambers. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure weight is 263 kg (580 lb) wet, which adds stability at speed but demands deliberate balance in tight parking lots. Geometry figures—24.5° rake, 91 mm (3.6 in) trail, and a 1510 mm (59.4 in) wheelbase—contribute to straight-line stability without feeling truck-like once rolling.

Equipment & Features

Stopping power comes from dual 305 mm floating discs up front with 4-piston fixed calipers and ABS, plus a rear 276 mm disc with a 2-piston floating caliper and ABS. Standard riding modes include Rain and Road, with Ride Modes Pro adding Dynamic, Enduro, and Enduro Pro for riders who want tailored responses on loose surfaces. Dynamic ESA is available as an option to electronically tune damping on the fly.

Touring touches are baked in: a 30 L (7.9 US gal) fuel tank with a 4 L (1.0 US gal) reserve, a robust continuous tubular steel bridge frame with a bolt-on subframe, and cross-spoke wheels that shrug off rougher terrain. Tech-savvy riders can spec the 6.5 in TFT with the BMW Motorrad Connected app. Electricals are stout, with a 510 W alternator and a 12 V / 12 Ah maintenance-free battery. For 2018, colorways include Racing Red, Light White/Cordoba Blue (Style 1 Rally), and Black Storm Metallic/Dark Slate Metallic matt/Achat Grey (Style 2 Exclusive). US MSRP was listed at $19,145.

Who Is the 2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure For?

This bike suits experienced riders who value long-distance comfort, off-pavement capability, and low-maintenance ownership. With its tall seat and substantial curb weight, it favors riders confident at slow-speed maneuvers, especially when loaded with luggage. Daily commuters will appreciate the smooth fueling and shaft drive, while weekend explorers will love the long travel, spoked wheels, and optional Ride Modes Pro when the pavement ends.

Torquepedia Verdict

If you’re shopping big-bore ADVs, the 2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure specs show a well-balanced package: a torquey boxer, long-travel suspension, big tank, and thoughtful electronics options. It’s a bike that remains composed on highways, comfortable over distance, and capable on graded dirt and rough roads.

Weaknesses? The height and mass won’t flatter shorter or newer riders, and the optional equipment can push the price up. But judged on range, comfort, and real-world versatility, the GSA remains a top-tier choice for riders who want one motorcycle to do almost everything.

FAQ

• Is the 2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure good for beginners? It’s manageable and well-fueled, but the 263 kg (580 lb) curb weight and 890/910 mm seat height make it better suited to experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure? The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure seat height is 890 / 910 mm (35.0 / 35.8 in), adjustable.

• How heavy is the 2018 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure? Wet weight (curb) is 263 kg / 580 lb.

• What are the power and torque figures? Maximum power is 125 hp (92 kW) at 7,750 rpm and maximum torque is 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm.

• What riding modes and electronics are available? Rain and Road are standard; Ride Modes Pro adds Dynamic, Enduro, and Enduro Pro. Dynamic ESA and a 6.5 in TFT with BMW Motorrad Connected app are optional.