2023 BMW R1250GS Specs & Review

The R1250GS is BMW’s flagship adventure motorcycle, built for riders who want long-distance comfort, real off-road capability, and confidence-inspiring road manners. This BMW R1250GS review focuses on the 2023 BMW R1250GS specs and how they translate into real-world riding for enthusiasts comparing big ADV options.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: Air/liquid-cooled four stroke flat twin with BMW ShiftCam
• Displacement: 1,254 cc
• Power: 100 kW (136 PS) at 7,750 rpm
• Torque: 143 Nm at 6,250 rpm (105 lb-ft at 6,250 rpm)
• BMW R1250GS seat height: 890 mm | 910 mm (35.0" | 35.8")
• BMW R1250GS weight (unladen): 268 kg (591 lbs)

Engine & Performance

BMW’s 1,254 cc flat twin uses the variable engine timing system BMW ShiftCam to deliver a broad, flexible powerband. With 100 kW (136 PS) at 7,750 rpm and 143 Nm at 6,250 rpm, the boxer pulls cleanly from low revs and surges through the mid-range, making city overtakes and tight backroad exits effortless. The wet clutch with anti-hopping function and the constant mesh 6‑speed gearbox keep shifts smooth and stable under hard deceleration, while the shaft drive adds durability and low-maintenance touring appeal.

On open highways, the R1250GS is happy to cruise and has a maximum speed of over 200 km/h (over 120 mph). Efficiency is strong for a big ADV: WMTC fuel consumption is 4.75 l per 100 km, with CO2 emissions of 110 g/km. It runs on unleaded super 95 RON and features adaptive fuel quality regulation (91 to 98 RON), so you can fuel up confidently when traveling far from home. Electrical demands for accessories are well-supported by a three-phase alternator with 510 W nominal power and a 12 V / 11.8 Ah maintenance-free battery.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R1250GS Seat Height

BMW’s unique chassis shines in mixed terrain. Up front, the BMW Motorrad Telelever (37 mm stanchions, central spring strut) limits dive under braking and keeps the bike composed on rough surfaces. Out back, the cast aluminium single-sided swingarm with BMW Motorrad Paralever and WAD (travel-related damping) strut provides traction and comfort. Spring preload and rebound damping are both adjustable at the handwheel, and generous suspension travel (210 mm front / 220 mm rear) supports serious off-pavement riding.

Wheels are cross-spoke with a 3.00 x 19" rim up front and 4.50 x 17" in the rear, wearing 120/70 R 19 and 170/60 R 17 tyres respectively—an ideal compromise for mixed road/dirt use. Geometry balances stability and agility with a 1,504 mm wheelbase, 95.4 mm castor, and a 65.1° steering head angle.

BMW R1250GS seat height options are 890 mm and 910 mm (35.0" and 35.8"), offering better fit for taller riders. For additional fit insight, the inner leg curve is 1,950 mm or 1,990 mm (76.8" | 78.3"). At an unladen BMW R1250GS weight of 268 kg (591 lbs), low-speed maneuvering takes respect, but once rolling, the chassis and electronics deliver confidence on the road and competence in the dirt. A 30 l (7.9 gal) tank, with approx. 4 l reserve, supports long-range travel between stops.

Equipment & Features

Standard equipment is robust: a TFT colour display with connectivity, Full-LED headlight, DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Integral ABS Pro (inclination-optimised), three riding modes (Eco, Rain, Road), HSC (Hill Start Control), a USB charging socket, and Intelligent Emergency Call (ECALL). Braking hardware is serious: dual 305 mm floating discs with 4‑piston radial calipers up front, and a 276 mm rear disc with a double-piston floating caliper.

Notable options elevate capability and comfort. Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment with automatic load levelling and automatic damping mode) takes the guesswork out of setup. Seat heating (rider and passenger), a Light package with adaptive cornering light and cruising light, auxiliary LED lamps, and a handlebar riser enhance touring comfort and visibility. Performance-minded riders can add the Sport silencer and Option 719 milled parts.

For advanced electronics, Riding Mode Pro adds Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, Enduro, and Enduro Pro, plus riding mode preselection, automated hill start control pro (HSC Pro), dynamic brake assistant DBC, and engine brake control MSR. Luggage and protection needs are covered with optional aluminium cases, Enduro underneath engine protection, a tinted windshield, Enduro headlamp-guard, and adjustable rider footrests.

Who Is the 2023 BMW R1250GS For?

The R1250GS suits experienced riders who want one do-it-all machine for commuting, long-distance touring, and real-world off-road exploration. New riders may find the power, BMW R1250GS weight, and seat height demanding. With a payload of 217 kg (478 lbs) and a permitted total weight of 485 kg (1069 lbs), it’s ideal for two-up travel with luggage and all-season adventure.

Torquepedia Verdict

If you’re cross-shopping big ADV bikes, the 2023 BMW R1250GS specs speak to a balanced and highly capable package: a torquey boxer with BMW ShiftCam, a stable Telelever/Paralever chassis, strong brakes, and comprehensive rider aids. The standard electronics cover daily needs, while options like Dynamic ESA and Riding Mode Pro turn it into a long-haul and off-road specialist.

The trade-offs are its stature and mass at parking-lot speeds, plus the tall BMW R1250GS seat height. But for riders who want a refined, proven, and feature-rich adventure tourer ready for global travel, the R1250GS remains a benchmark.

FAQ

• Is the 2023 BMW R1250GS good for beginners? It’s a powerful and tall adventure bike with an unladen weight of 268 kg (591 lbs) and 100 kW (136 PS). Most true beginners will be better served by lighter, lower machines.

• What is the seat height of the 2023 BMW R1250GS? The BMW R1250GS seat height is 890 mm or 910 mm (35.0" | 35.8"). Inner leg curve is 1,950 mm or 1,990 mm (76.8" | 78.3").

• How heavy is the 2023 BMW R1250GS? The BMW R1250GS weight (unladen) is 268 kg (591 lbs). Permitted total weight is 485 kg (1069 lbs), with a payload of 217 kg (478 lbs).

• What is the fuel capacity and consumption? Usable tank volume is 30 l (7.9 gal) with approx. 4 l reserve. WMTC fuel consumption is 4.75 l per 100 km.

• What rider aids and modes does it have? Standard equipment includes DTC, Integral ABS Pro, and Eco/Rain/Road riding modes, plus HSC, TFT connectivity, Full-LED headlight, USB, and ECALL. Optional Riding Mode Pro adds Dynamic, Dynamic Pro, Enduro, and Enduro Pro, along with HSC Pro, DBC, and MSR.