R 1200 C
- motorcycle model, BMW brand
The BMW R1200C is an attempt by the Bavarian manufacturer to produce an American-style motorcycle. The R1200C has several versions - Montauk, Classic, Independent and Avantgarde. They differ from each other in all sorts of little things, like different seats or a small windshield. The main components - engine, gearbox, chassis - are the same for all versions. Thus, the Montauk version has an original passenger seat, which, through simple manipulation, turns into a backrest for the driver, while the Independent version is initially equipped only with a solo saddle.
In the BMW R1200C, constructors and designers combined seemingly incompatible advantages - the technical perfection of modern motorcycles and the old-school style typical of cruisers with an abundance of chrome parts and a kind of brutal charm. Although, of course, the R1200C still looks quite unusual by the standards of the chopper class, you can’t argue with that. But the unusual appearance of this motorcycle is its highlight. Everything that is in this cruiser is made, traditionally for BMW, in compliance with the highest quality standards - excellent seat covering, high-quality chrome... Who would doubt it. The engine for the BMW R1200C was an air-cooled opposed two-cylinder “Boxer”, similar to the internal combustion engine on the BMW R 1200 CL, with four valves per cylinder, fueled by injection and equipped with short pushrods. The power of this engine is 61 horsepower, maximum torque is 98 Newton meters. By the way, despite the cardan, there is no need to reduce this figure - BMW indicates power not at the crankshaft, but at the rear wheel. As a result, the R1200C turned out to be a very dynamic motorcycle, with excellent low-end traction and at the same time not resisting high revs. The gearbox, by the way, is a classic five-speed.
When you sit on a motorcycle, you immediately feel that every detail has been thought out. The BMW R1200C is a fairly light bike, its dry weight is less than 260 kg, which, coupled with excellent suspension and proper weight distribution of all components, gives it excellent maneuverability, and the vibrations of the boxer engine are not annoying - on the contrary, they are pleasant and constantly remind you that you are riding a cruiser .
By the way, the swaying from side to side characteristic of boxer engines did not bypass the R1200C - at idle speed the motorcycle seems to be trying to tilt slightly to the side. However, you get used to this small feature after a day of driving.
The BMW R1200C handles, as we have already said, excellently, by the standards of the class, of course. This motorcycle willingly corners at an angle that many other brothers in its class have never dreamed of, and good brakes add confidence. By the way, there are two 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers at the front, and one 285 mm disc with 2-piston calipers at the rear. The main brake, as usual, is the front one, but with proper operation of both brakes, the BMW R1200C stops more than effectively. The suspensions are quite stiff, which naturally reduces the level of comfort when traveling on bad roads, but thanks to this, the German cruiser handles very sharply and predictably.
Thanks to its light weight and not the most impressive width, the BMW R1200C is great for city riding, but this motorcycle is also capable of long journeys. The gas tank volume of the R1200C is seventeen and a half liters, four of which are reserve. Consumption in the combined cycle fluctuates around six and a half liters per hundred, and when driving without acceleration or braking at a speed of about 90 km/h, it drops to less than five liters. True, it is recommended to fill the motorcycle with AI-98, which is not present at every gas station outside large cities.
BMW's attempt to squeeze into the cruiser market was not very successful - despite the fact that the BMW R1200C quickly gained a lot of fans, the motorcycle did not last long on the production line. But thanks to the excellent combination of modern filling and stylish appearance, although not entirely consistent with the spirit of the old school of motorcycle building, the Bavarian cruiser is still honored by many bikers. And no wonder - the BMW R1200C deserves attention.
BMW R1200GS
I rode a goose for a year and a half. The first season on the goose was extremely pleasant. Such a relaxing feeling, global comfort and peace. Complete predictability of the device, clear and obvious limits. In general, in terms of user-friendliness, the goose is perhaps one of the best motorcycles in my experience.
But in the second season it became downright boring. Yes, the goose is ideal when you need to deliver your carcass somewhere without straining, but it does not provide any thrill on asphalt and dirt roads. Everything is too relaxed. Therefore, after another trip this summer, I couldn’t resist and dropped into the store to look at the SuperAdvertiser.
I have no problems either in traffic jams, or with dynamics, or with long-term movements.
Goose, in my opinion, is just a universal motorcycle that can be used on good, bad asphalt, off-road (with good training, you can go into the forest), it’s not scary to drop it, there’s a lot of tuning for it, it’s comfortable.
The only negative for the air vent is that if you drive dynamically, it eats up oil.
I ordered the 2015, the most complete one, I waited, bought it, and I’ll tell you, 3 days later I put it up for sale, it’s such a crappy motorcycle, on the first day I decided to drive 250 km to another city, I almost went crazy, it’s noisy, there’s no wind protection, my head hurts, though hide behind the glass, do whatever you want, it feels like riding a chaise on a washboard!!! Even in the softest suspension mode, there are such kickbacks from the wheels, the engine is leaky, it vibrates, there is zero power at all, the engine is really not enough, it’s also noisy and with vibration, the seating position is so-so, the steering wheel is not comfortable, there are only two pluses in this motorcycle: it really steers easier than a bicycle , and at any speed, the second plus is very good optics, lighting and steering at the highest level. That's all, but the rest is expensive and it's not clear what the money is for!!! In general, it’s just a disappointment, I bought it in 4 days and drove 700 km, I thought I’d ride it, I’d understand, but no. It would be better to take the KTM Superadventure
What was purchased: Gus 2008, close to factory condition, with integral ABS, ESA electronic suspension, traction control, tire pressure sensors, advanced on-board computer, alarm, three panniers, roll bars, heated grips and additional lights. True on oak and old tires ((
We shook hands and drove off... Of course, at first it was scary, but we had to get used to the motorcycle while driving along the E105 highway...
Before the start, I filled the tank full, played with the electronics, and, having sorted it out, set off.
Many will probably say that half of the above are useless gadgets... But they helped a lot on the road, and it was not easy - traffic jams, downpours, cold, slush from sand and clay on the asphalt.
What did I get? Hand warmers saved us in the pouring rain at +5, excellent suspensions in comfort mode fought against bad roads, and enduro modes helped out when driving along the side of the road) The trip flew by unnoticed, despite all the adversities. Then I rode around Moscow until it got colder and laid it up.
I really liked the motorcycle, all the electronics are in place, it greatly simplifies life and gives comfort. I understand that the equipment was purchased for a long time and we have to cover many thousands of kilometers together. I got exactly what I wanted.
A motorcycle gives you joy, and isn’t that the main thing?
Well, an addition. On the May holidays, my will was taken into account and I went to the Caucasus and Crimea.
Before the trip, I changed consumables, including the alternator belt. I ordered everything on existential, no problems and inexpensive. I did the maintenance myself (engine, belt, gearbox, gearbox) - everything is very simple. You just need to observe the tightening torques! Critical!
The journey was long, almost three weeks, with great distances: a total of 6,500 kilometers covered.
The motorcycle did a great job! To the surprise of many spiteful critics, nothing broke, did not fall off, the cardan did not break in half and the engine did not stand up like a wedge.
On the highway the motorcycle behaved perfectly, on the M4 the suspension was in sport mode, cruising speed was 120-140. Maybe it's more, but I don't want it. There are several reasons: I don’t like to drive fast, the standard glass is clearly not for that speed.
After 100 km/h, the air flow hits right in the forehead, nothing saves! Even earplugs! The ringing in my ears is brutal.
Therefore, if you decide to buy a goose, change the glass immediately!
A mileage of 1000 km per day is child's play for Goose, more is possible, the main thing is higher glass)))
Now about gasoline consumption. The thing is very specific - depending on weather conditions and load, it can differ by a liter and a half. So, if you drive alone or with a passenger and a topcase in dry weather, the consumption is about 5.3 liters. If you add side panniers, the consumption can jump to 6-6.2. And if it starts to rain (rain), then get ready to consume about 7 liters (with panniers). In general, the motorcycle is economical, given the considerable engine size.
Now about the pendants. The roads in Crimea are often just complete trash, in some places completely. “Useless” electric suspensions help us here.
Not only can you change the compression (only on the spot) and ground clearance with the button, but you can also change three rebound positions on the go: from comfort to sport. The thing was very useful, as the roads changed from ideal to completely broken. Playing with the settings on the go, you can either safely put it at 100-120 where the boxes go 80, and on the serpentinas you can lay it down to the pegs.
Of course, at low speed the motorcycle is like a toy, but as you increase the speed and corner, you need to make an effort! The mass is not small! For example, in Crimea, after a quick ride along serpentines from Yalta to Sudak and back (150 km), the body requires beer and a bed. Immediately. ))))))))))) I didn’t break through the suspension anywhere. General impressions - the suspension is exactly for our roads, it is comfortable both on the highway and on rough roads and on the ground.
Engine.
It pulls like hell, but only starting from 2,500-3,000 rpm. I found information that the Germans are leaning the mixture for the sake of the environment, we seem to be solving the issue. As soon as we cross the 2,500 thousand mark, the motorcycle picks up vigorously. The presence of a passenger does not bother him at all. The only drawback of the motor is vibration in the range from 4,000 to 5,000 rpm. I think this is not critical - they are not that strong, but you know exactly when to change gears) Without tachometers) It was not possible to overheat the air vent, no matter how hard I tried)
Add. equipment.
Saddlebags: Plastic saddlebags are good, except for the top case. It is designed for smooth roads... After a grab on the grader, the lock on the top case cracked, they fixed it with the guys in Pyatigorsk. Now you can go wherever you want)
The sensors in the tires turned out to be very convenient - you look at the pressure, oh! Increased! The tires are warm, you can use all your money)
I’m silent about heated grips, ABS and traction, they helped out.
Regarding maneuverability in traffic jams, it fits everywhere, the main thing is to be able to do it.
What we end up with:
Handling - due to the low center of gravity and the ability to adjust the suspension, you can get either a barge or a very vigorous projectile. Of course, you can’t compare with road bikes and sportbikes, but you can easily and effortlessly load a motorcycle up to the pegs.
Comfort - nothing to say. Just a miracle. Surely the Gold is much more comfortable, but of the tourendurs this turned out to be the most comfortable for me. Of course, I had to get used to BMW turn signals, but nothing) I don’t even notice anymore. And what a feeling when, after pressing a button, the motorcycle begins to rise! At first it’s just breathtaking)))
Brakes - Brembo with intercalary ABS. I think that's enough)
The bottom line is that the Goose is an excellent motorcycle both for traveling and for daily use. Maneuverable for a heavy traveler, easy to climb and with a bunch of nice options. This is a modern motorcycle that gives real pleasure. For some it may seem sluggish, big, heavy, slow... But to each his own - I wanted comfort, modern technology and reliability. And he received them.
We can say that there are now a lot of competitors with similar characteristics. But in 2008 they simply did not exist. And the cost of similar devices from competitors, with similar options, is now simply prohibitive; on some, something appeared only last year.
Someone will say: Goose is for pensioners. And I will give a counterargument - which of us will be a pensioner on a broken road or dirt road? I think the answer is obvious. If you need a motorcycle not only for the city, but also to take it on a trip, ride on the ground, waterfalls, lakes, go to the sea... The goose is an excellent option.
I like it, even if they call BMW “trash” shit and a bucket of nuts)))))))))
I believe that a car or motorcycle can only be fully understood after driving for 1000 km. Therefore, I was not interested in taking a water goose for an hour test drive around Moscow. Instead, I flew to Spain for the New Year, rented a BMW R1200GS LC and rode along a 3,000 km route.
I wanted to understand how comfortable and interesting this motorcycle is for me. And does it make sense for me to exchange the 2012 BMW R1200GS for the new BMW R1200GS LC.
I don’t drive very fast, the driving speed is no more than 130 km/h, on empty highways maybe 150-160. My height is 172 cm, weight is about 84 kg. All notes were taken along the way, so by the end of the route I got used to or resigned myself to some new items. I highlighted in italics the moments that I rethought after 10 days of running.
In general, the water goose left me with mixed feelings.
It's more dynamic. He got into a wheelie in second gear with a passenger and cargo. In fact, I have not yet had time to get used to the new clutch, electronic gas and more power. This never happened again; understanding and control of engine power comes after about 1,500 km in different modes.
The power reserve is felt even at 160. You feel that if you want it, in a second it will be 200 without any strain at all. This is not entirely true. There is enough power, overtaking on the highway is very easy. But the engine is not “bottomless”. Just for fun, I tried to accelerate to 170 and understand what’s what. There is a reserve, but up to 200 the speed gain will be slower.
The brakes are better, but the brakes were enough for me even on the air goose. In general, there were no questions for them. Convenient and transparent.
Water cooling. At first I didn't understand it. The on-board computer has the ability to view the engine temperature. On the road it was 80-83 degrees. Further in the city, while I was standing near the hotel, I heard the fans turn on. The engine temperature rose to 100 degrees. Then I took a quick ride around the hotel - still the temperature rose to 100 degrees. I left the motorcycle to cool down, then I came and just started it on the center stand. In 5-7 minutes the engine temperature rose to 100 degrees. At the same time, the coolant splashed at the bottom of the tank. I called the rental office and described the situation. The manager couldn't answer anything concrete. The next day the temperature on the road was around 82 degrees. I contacted the rental manager and the BMW service center confirmed that this was normal engine operation. On the air goose I got the high engine temperature icon twice. Both times it was a stagnant traffic jam in the heat of 35 degrees. I turned off the engine, stood on the side of the road for 5 minutes and drove on.
The gearbox is weird. That's just weird. Neutral is difficult to catch. Vibrations start at 5 thousand revolutions, at 6 thousand revolutions they are already unpleasant. At 7-8 he screams like a slaughtered pig. Big question for the box. On serpentine roads you drive mainly in 2-3 gears. A choice arises: either drive 200 meters between turns with vibrations in second gear with revs around 6 thousand, or shift much more often. It seems like on models from 2014 onwards the box will be slightly corrected. As a result of the trip, I accepted the vibrations at 6 thousand rpm and drove at them. The passenger didn't like the vibrations either.
The side stand is different. It is not possible to recline it automatically; you have to look down and control every movement. Easier to fold. In 10 days I still haven’t brought these movements to the point of automaticity. But it's just a matter of sustainable skill.
If the motorcycle stalls, it is difficult to start it in gear. Possible, but not easy. Regarding starting in gear. When there are two fingers under the clutch handle, you squeeze the clutch and try to start the motorcycle - nothing will work. You need to remove all your fingers from under the clutch lever and fully depress the clutch - then the motorcycle will start. It's inconvenient in the city. I didn’t figure it out right away.
The heating of the handles was made much worse. And he is not enough at all. You feel the heat at 13-15 degrees. On my air goose, at this temperature, the heating of the handles fry. Even at +19 degrees, the heated handles on the second level only warmed the hands a little. At temperatures below 10 degrees, there is no heating. What prevented us from making 3-5 degrees of heating is unclear. Moreover, GTL has this, that is, the technology and engineering solutions are available. It is puzzling why, when turning on the heated handles, the second heating stage (more powerful) is turned on first, then the first. The heating button is not very conveniently located, but you rarely use it, so this is not critical.
The turn signal switch was made like on regular motorcycles. And they did it disgustingly. No not like this. It turned out to be complete crap. I had a motorcycle with a navigation wheel. If it is present, you need to reach for the lever. If you can still poke the side of the lever to turn the pointer to the right, then you can’t reach the left at all. If you hold the clutch and your gear is engaged, you will not be able to reach the turn signal switch. If you are at a downward angle, you will not be able to reach the turn signal switch. In a roundabout on a tilt, you most likely won’t be able to reach the turn signal switch either. In fact, you will do some maneuvers without direction indicators. Get used to them after 3000 km. I could not get.
The horn button is located inconveniently. In a really dangerous situation, I was never able to signal. But it regularly beeped when trying to turn on the turn signal. I couldn't get used to it.
Engine stop button. Previously, there was a left-right flag, which, if the motorcycle fell, I switched in flight and the motorcycle lay on its side, already turned off. Now it won't work like that.
Dynamic ESA. I didn’t try the RAIN and Enduro modes, and I didn’t really feel the difference between Dynamic and Road. It exists, but I wasn’t particularly keen on the comparison. In general, ESA management has been made more convenient and understandable.
The center of gravity is higher than that of an air goose. Therefore, it is harder to roll it with your hands and lift it. Very often I can’t lift it off the side stand on uneven surfaces (and in Spain there are inclines and uneven surfaces everywhere). I don't have enough height to back up on uneven surfaces. It’s very difficult; you often have to ask a passenger. I can’t even imagine how a water adventure will be controlled, because its center of gravity will be even higher.
Tires Metzeler Turance Next. At first I didn't like it. Everything seems to be fine, but there is no confidence in the slopes and serpentines. The feeling that it’s about to break. I rode further and it got better. But he still wasn't sure about her. There is no feeling that the rubber “sticks” to the asphalt and the motorcycle turns into turns “as if on rails.” Although in fact the drift of the rear wheel immediately stuck, and the motorcycle entered the turn exactly as planned. The tires are purely road tires. I tried to drive 300 meters on a slightly damp dirt road and immediately realized that it was better not to do that. There were no complaints in the rain. The impression of rubber is purely subjective. There are no real arguments against it, but I won’t buy it for myself.
The motorcycle is more playful, with noticeably sharper handling. At first, I regularly didn’t get the trajectory right precisely because of the sharper controls. It corners and leans noticeably better. Very stable on the road. With an air goose, if you try to gently shake the steering wheel at a speed of 100-120 km/h, you will feel small vibrations in the front wheel. The water goose does not have this. In fact, I drove 10-15 km faster along the serpentines than on my airborne GS. You can no longer put your feet on the potty during a long run on the autobahn.
The mirrors are disgusting. This is the very case when functionality was brought in favor of design. Change is vital. I had a situation on a serpentine road when a car started to overtake me in the oncoming lane, I couldn’t see it in my mirrors. No matter how I twisted or bent over.
The seats are not very comfortable. I had a low saddle. I also ride low on my air goose. Over 550 km along serpentine roads (8-9 hours in the saddle), everything went numb, both for me and for the passenger. It’s hard to even carry one tank of gas (about 250 km) at a time. Unlike the air goose, this one has the ability to put the lowered saddle in a high position. I didn’t take advantage of this opportunity; it was already inconvenient for me.
Telescopic plastic panniers from BMW are rare crap. As a result of laying the motorcycle on the left side, one part cracked. It wasn’t even a fall, I just laid him on his side. But the most important thing is that they are inconvenient to load; very few things fit into them, despite a fairly large volume. Plastic locks stick. Buying them with your own money is a very strange decision.
What happens when a motorcycle falls. Due to the high center of gravity and my height, I dropped it twice while standing. Moreover, I am 100% sure that I would not have dropped the air goose in such a situation. The mirrors do not rest on the asphalt, the hand protection does not scratch, which really surprised me. The motorcycle rests on the cylinder covers (I didn’t have arches) and on the case. The fashionable plastic cover for the tank breaks off when dropped and its mounting legs break off. If you decide to drive off-road, you must remove the cover. It's harder to lift because of the high center of gravity. An air goose is much easier to lift.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have a fashionable LED headlight. So I can’t appreciate the light in the dark. From the passenger’s point of view, the convenience of boarding and traveling on an air goose or on a water goose is the same.
General impression. I will say what has already been written more than once. BMW has made a good touring motorcycle. It has nothing in common with previous GS series motorcycles. It drives well on serpentines and European roads. There are shortcomings, some of which will be corrected in the new model years, and some will be corrected by Turtech and Wunderlicht. There are shortcomings that you can only come to terms with. I just think that for driving on European roads it is better to take RT or GTL. It's more comfortable for the passenger. There is music again. I admit that even off-road, the water goose rides well with the right tires. I haven't tried it myself, but most likely it is.
Something like that.
The Air Goose is a diesel 100 Kruzak. He's just driving. It rumbles and drives like a tractor. If he fell, what would happen to him, he was made of iron. Water goose is more refined. And the most important thing is that it doesn’t catch on. It feels kind of plastic. I can’t say it any other way. I won’t buy one for myself, but will continue to ride the air goose. The manager from the rental office has exactly the same opinion.
All sensations are subjective, all the criteria by which I assessed them are important only to me. I'll take the water GSA for a test drive. I think that to understand it, I will only need a couple of hundred kilometers around Moscow and the Moscow region.
Amazing. At LC himself. I don’t even want to look in the direction of the previous one. I see almost no positive reviews about the water one. This is not so, this is not it. I consider the new one to be a work of art and it won’t be long before one of the manufacturers comes along to stand next to it. Yes, he has awesome buttons and he steers at 100 and brakes at 105 and his landing is at 120 and he doesn’t need a damper, the mirrors are super, by the way, his panniers are just awesome, you can push an elephant and did. Because the GS LC doesn't drive anything. I think that all this is either out of envy or because we can’t afford it. Sorry in advance if anything happens.
I'm happy with the motorcycle. I also read, heard and collected negative reviews about him. But despite this... I bought it. And so far I haven’t wished even once.
Had the opportunity to ride the 800 (a little). The 800 is more off-road, the 1200 is (much) more comfortable.
When a passenger appears, the 800 definitely loses.
bmwwiki.ru
The BMW R1200GS is a classic tourer in its truest form
The BMW R1200GS is an enduro touring motorcycle with a fairly powerful 1170 cc engine. This is the same model that significantly expanded the concept of touring bikes.
How did you find a compromise?
The BMW R1200GS is a touring enduro that has recently undergone a rejuvenation procedure. The Bavarian developers faced a difficult task - to update the archaic model, but in such a way as not to scare away fans of the “old school” models and at the same time attract the attention of potentially new customers who would gladly purchase an “adventure BMW”, but technically more equipped competitors “suppress their appetite” "
A solution was found - as a result, the motorcycle remained virtually unchanged in appearance, but its internal components underwent significant changes. For example, instead of air cooling, the engine received a liquid-oil system, and the intake and exhaust system was changed almost completely.
Power in every situation
The use of a liquid cooling system (similar to the one used by the BMW team in Formula 1) made it possible to significantly increase the power and torque of the engine. As a result, the power of the two-cylinder boxer BMW R1200GS increased to 125 horsepower. But an additional cooling system called Precision cooling made it possible to “relieve stress” from those engine elements that were previously subjected to significant load, but could not be cooled by the oncoming flow.
Electronic filling of the updated enduro
The BMW R1200GS Adventure motorcycle is fully equipped with electronics. Five engine operating modes – “asphalt”, “rain”, “dynamic mode” and two versions of driving in off-road conditions; ABS and electronic throttle, as well as cruise control and a remote suspension control system - all this provides the most comfortable conditions for an imposing ride. The BMW motorcycle, the photo of which eloquently demonstrates its desire to travel, is equipped with an innovative system called Dynamic ESA - this option allows the computer to analyze the speed of the motorcycle, the condition of the road surface and independently adjust the shock absorbers in Live mode.
Who is the BMW R1200GS for?
By combining engine and suspension settings, you can achieve several engine modes, each with unique characteristics. This in turn means that a beginner will have to test the motorcycle repeatedly in different conditions. However, the best touring enduro is the BMW motorcycle. The photo clearly demonstrates the harmonious shape of the bike, which slightly resembles the outline of a bird. Perhaps that is why among motorcyclists he received the name “Big Goose”.
In order to master all the intricacies of the engine, you will have to drive hundreds of kilometers. But it’s worth it - sufficient engine power and its responsiveness evoke extremely positive emotions from the trip. In any case, a smart computer minimizes the likelihood of gross violations.
It cannot be said that the BMW R1200GS is suitable for long-distance driving - due to poor protection from the oncoming wind, long-distance rides are contraindicated. However, other qualities are quite consistent with the “tourist” class.
Dry facts or basic technical characteristics
The four-stroke boxer engine has a power of 125 horsepower and this is with a volume of 1170 cc. The air-liquid cooling system is also equipped with an additional one, which significantly facilitates the operation of some engine elements.
The tubular steel frame provides sufficient strength to the entire structure itself, and as a result of the modification, it has even greater resistance to torsion, which means that the motorcycle is now distinguished by precise control and greater maneuverability. The ground clearance in the new model has been increased by 10 mm, which allows for proper control in off-road driving conditions.
The BMW R1200GS, whose price varies depending on the condition of the motorcycle and the year of manufacture, is ideal for touring enthusiasts. However, this does not mean at all that among sports models it will remain on the list of “outsiders” - BMW will give a head start in speed competition.
Fuel consumption depends on riding conditions, motorcycle speed and road surface conditions. So, for example, at a speed of 120 km/h the bike will “eat” approximately 5.5 liters, but in conditions of measured and relaxed movement (90 km/h), enjoying the beauty of nature, you don’t have to worry about refueling - fuel consumption is only about 4 liters. The maximum speed of a touring enduro is 200 km/h, which is an excellent indicator for bikes in this category.
The touring BMW R1200GS is the ideal companion for exciting adventures and new experiences. The qualities and character of the motorcycle are the best way to ensure that the trip brings extremely positive emotions.
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Advantages:
- The steel frame provides additional reliability.
- High quality parts and assembly.
- High quality plastic fairings.
- Optimal balance ensures ease of operation and a high level of control.
- The powerful engine allows you to develop high speed and, if necessary, will help you overcome any obstacles.
- A reliable braking system plus ABS increase driving safety.
- The original design, thought out to the smallest detail, allows you to stand out in the crowd.
- A comfortable fit reveals the potential of long trips, which is why most people use the BMW 1200 R motorcycle for organizing tours.
BMW R 1200 GS test – is it perfect?
We decided to take a motorcycle for a test, but not just any one, but certainly one that is known throughout the world, has a history, is as versatile and brutal as possible. Since we’re talking in such epithets, let’s talk about the heavy German enduro BMW R 1200 GS. We got the equipment to match - the maximum, for completeness of sensations. There was just one discrepancy with the portrait of the potential Gusovod. Usually people come to this model who have previously ridden various motorcycles and finally reached the top - GS. Our experience with the motorcycle world is more modest. It’s all the more interesting how a top-end motorcycle with a top speed of more than 200 km/h will perform in the hands of an entry-level rider. TopCrop.ru puts on a helmet!
Motorcycle BMW R 1200 GS
From a distance and as you get closer to the motorcycle, the desire grows to ask the main question to the manufacturer, dealer and everyone concerned - how is it possible to stay in the saddle of such a giant? The model is truly amazing in its size. Every detail here is so massive that thoughts of pumped-up athletes and other athletes involuntarily come to mind. And immediately the engineers of the Bavarian concern smile, as if saying: “Don’t be afraid, come closer and sit down quickly!” Indeed, the height-adjustable seat is already adjusted to your height, your leg flies through it to the footrest, and your hands reach for the rather wide steering wheel. The moment - and you are already in the saddle. First victory!
The details immediately catch your eye - what this motorcycle is so rich in. The dashboard is similar to that of a car, only smaller in size. Solid hands and modern electronic readouts are a symbiosis of hi-tech and history. Nearby is a standard quick-release BMW navigator in a special mount - an indispensable thing on the road. In front there is a tinted windshield. Gives importance and confidence to the pilot, driving the oncoming flow upward. All control panels are at your fingertips, their location is quickly remembered.
Directly in front of the rider there is a huge tank, which is enough for an average of 350 kilometers. It not only helps on long journeys by supplying fuel to the engine, but is also one of the main design elements of the GS. The passenger feels at ease, as if he is not on a motorcycle, but on a huge office chair with a motor that carries him through space. The seat cushion is soft and wide, the handles on the sides fit comfortably in your hands, and your feet rest comfortably on the footrests. At the same time, the passenger does not interfere with the driver with his presence. On the contrary, if there is a communication system installed in the helmets, you can share your impressions of the trip immediately, without waiting for its completion.
On the road and only on the road the motorcycle reveals itself. Not right away, he gives emotion after emotion, layer by layer covering the stale baguette of everyday life with the sweet tastes of sensations. And if so, then we start the BMW engine. To do this, we put the six-speed gearbox in the Neutral position with our left foot and... yes, we don’t turn anything, we press. We press the electric starter button, while in your pocket there must certainly be a branded electronic key-less key fob, which also serves as an alarm remote control. We have already realized that the R 1200 GS has a phenomenal concentration of modern electronics, which we will talk about further. But then the true nature of motorcycles makes itself known.
Exhaust system Akrapovič
The sound produced by the Akrapovič exhaust system, topped with a solid muffler can, is at least worthy of a solo part in the best acoustic halls in the world. This is delight, childish delight! Yes, it is loud and can accidentally scare or anger someone nearby. But a smile on his face appears involuntarily from his roar - he is so charismatic, and besides, he serves the cause of safety, informing other road users about your presence. We squeeze the clutch with our left hand, the first one down and smoothly begin to move. On this enduro with an engine capacity of 1200 cm3 and a power of 125 hp. Even a person who has completed an initial driving course at a motorcycle school will be able to get going. Locomotive traction reserve. Acceleration is to match - we just touch the throttle a little and the BMW follows our gaze. The high seating position, which evokes a feeling of superiority and allows you to see the road far ahead, as well as the appearance of the motorcycle, which everyone, without exception, treats with dignity and respect, allows you to move confidently around the city.
Even at low speeds you experience a rush of adrenaline, the smile does not leave your face covered with a helmet. Some people think that holding a machine like this upright with your legs somewhere in a traffic jam is hard work. We checked it from our own experience - it is not much more difficult than in the case of lighter two-wheelers. The main thing is not to deviate to a large angle. Due to the boxer engine, the cylinder blocks of which are located in a horizontal plane opposite each other, it is worth getting used to and choosing a comfortable gap in advance when driving between cars in dense city traffic. The Akrapovič bass comes in handy here - people should know about you from afar.
As soon as we escaped from the stuffy metropolis, the 1200 cc endurik took a deep breath. It is here, far from the bustle, pettiness and gray days of the city, that a motorcycle is in its element and gives you wonderful impressions and vivid emotions, the likes of which cannot be experienced while driving any other car. With every kilometer that moved us away from the Moscow Ring Road, we began to smell the wind more and more, we watched the clouds, we returned to nature. Engine power is always available. Even if you don’t really want to downshift again, the torque allows you to move confidently and at very low revs. By the way, thanks to the Quick shifter system, you can relax, ignoring the clutch lever, working only with your foot.
Test drive of the BMW R 1200 GS motorcycle. Kirill Dushutin is driving.
In total, over the course of several days of testing, we managed to increase the odometer readings by a good thousand kilometers. AI-95 gasoline consumption was about 6 liters per 100 km. We drove not only along city streets and asphalt country roads. If the BMW R 1200 GS weren't an omnivorous enduro, we wouldn't even think about veering anywhere off paved surfaces. And so, even being shod in frankly road tires, Gus boldly and confidently drove us along country paths of varying quality. The proprietary BMW Motorrad Telelever suspension (front) and Paralever rear suspension are beyond praise here. Both the pilot and the passenger feel like they are on board a luxury yacht, gently rocking on the waves. It’s like you’re flying on a hovercraft across endless expanses.
At night, the magnificent LED headlight, covered with protective glass, came to the rescue, allowing you to drive with comfort similar to daytime. The windshield mentioned above was also useful to us during a trip in heavy rain - it cut off part of the water flying towards us along with the air. Enduro is equipped with the latest driver assistance systems that help maintain full control in almost any situation - ABS, Traction control. At the back, as you noticed from the photographs, a BMW branded aluminum trunk was installed. We stored our clothes there during our voyages, which allowed them to always remain clean and dry thanks to the insulating design of the luggage case. Another feature is that on the road we were constantly greeted by drivers of different motorcycles with a wave of their palm. This is a club of people who value an additional, two-wheeled degree of freedom.
Summary
One day, on the way to the parking lot, we caught ourselves thinking that the need for today’s trip was... imaginary. There really was no need to go to the other end of Moscow. But we couldn’t deny ourselves the pleasure of riding the GS again. This is what makes a motorcycle different from most cars; it encourages you to come up with an excuse for every trip, just to make it happen. Owning a BMW R 1200 GS, the world's most famous travel enduro, is like owning a yacht or a personal plane, with the difference that the Bavarian is still cheaper and this is another advantage.
When you have a motorcycle, the boundaries of personal freedom become wider. At the same time, it fosters responsibility, since the risk, of course, is higher than when driving a car. Returning the BMW R 1200 GS back, we were glad to be able to try on the legendary German enduro. If you think that this is an ideal motorcycle, then you are almost right, because, perhaps, no one in the world produces such high-class devices except BMW. And if it were not for the annoying vibration that is felt throughout the body at any speed, and remains with you even at night after a day of driving, we would also be happy to call it ideal. But we sincerely hope that in the next generation engineers will be able to at least minimize the bitterness of this annoying, but very noticeable fly in the ointment.
Text: Ivan Natanov Photo: Daniil Kovalevsky
July 1, 2016
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BMW R 1200 GS reviews
The BMW R 1200 GS enduro motorcycle replaced the BMW R 1150 GS in 2003 and is still produced today. Today it features a powerful 2-cylinder, 4-stroke engine with a volume of 1170 cc, producing 125 hp. and 125 Nm of torque. This power, together with a 6-speed manual transmission, allows it to quickly accelerate from any speed. The engine is controlled by the BMS-K electronic system, limiting the crankshaft speed. The average consumption of the A-95 recommended by the manufacturer is 4.6-6 l/100 km.
Other features: steel tubular frame, sporty design, reliable suspension, cardan drive, spacious tank of 20 liters.
The front brake is a floating type with two 305 mm discs and a stroke of 190 mm, the rear is with a floating brake caliper, one 265 mm disc and a stroke of 200 mm. The front wheel size is 120/70-19, the rear wheel is 170/60-17.
It is worth noting the high ergonomics of the BMW R1200GS, because comfort and easy control are one of its main trump cards. Compared to its predecessor, it has improved wind protection. For confident off-road driving, it is possible to equip it with ESA and ASC electronic systems. They didn’t forget about the protection against dirt and stones getting into the driver from under the front wheel.
Based on it, the BMW R1200 GS Adventure model is offered in two color options. It differs from the simple R1200GS in its dimensions, higher seating position, increased suspension range, 30 liter tank, increased ground clearance by 20 mm, increased dry weight to 260 kg and increased fuel consumption.
Model modernization: - 2003-2008 - 1st generation - 2009-2012 - 2nd generation
— 2013-present - 3rd generation
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Appearance of the BMW 1200 r motorcycle
In general, the appearance of the BMW R 1200 does not differ from typical road enduros. The emphasis is definitely on the front of the motorcycle. The abundance of plastic parts increases the aerodynamic characteristics of the BMW 1200 motorcycle. The remarkable appearance allows you to stand out from the crowd. The windproof glass is designed for high speed driving.
One of the main differences between the basic version of the BMW GS 1200 and the Adventure model is the lower seating position. This may initially seem uncomfortable, but over long periods of time in the saddle this difference will be an advantage. When driving around the city, the low seat height allows you to easily reach the asphalt when stopping at a traffic light. There are no protective bars, which indicates the quieter nature of the bike.
In general, the seat is convenient and comfortable, which allows you to use the BMW 1200 gs motorcycle for traveling around the world. Alloy wheels together with road tires increase stability on asphalt surfaces. The suspension system adapts well to off-road conditions. Long trips on a BMW 1200 motorcycle allow you to enjoy both the driving itself and the surrounding area.
