2012 BMW F800GS Gelande Strasse Concept

2012 BMW F800GS Review

BMW is continuing its assault on every market segment with a bike that is beautifully behaved on-road, and very effective off-road given the proper tyres. The 2012 BMW F800GS is so seductive that you find yourself wondering if it isn’t the ideal size for an urban bike as well as for virtually every type of touring, especially solo. The GS concept (Gelande Strasse) bet you didn’t know that or Off-Road/On-Road features longer travel suspension and a spring/shock combo that gobbles up bumps and ruts with the greatest of ease.

The vertical Twin in the BMW F800GS delivers 85 ponies and produces readily available torque right off the 2,000 rpm mark. Smaller and lighter than the R-Series older brothers, it uses a balancing connecting rod on a third crankshaft pin to reduce the vibrations produced by the two pistons moving in unison. Combustion occurs at each revolution, producing a smooth, turbine-like effect. Thanks to the six well chosen gear ratios, a light clutch and the absence of heavy masses high on the frame, the bike is significantly easier to ride and change direction than the heavier R1200GS. The electronic injection and ignition systems seem flawless, delivering immediate throttle response whatever the rpm.

2012 BMW F800GS

2012 BMW F800GS

 The F800GS clearly loves uneven roads, with which we are all too familiar with in our part of the world. You can hear the tyres working hard to gobble up holes and bumps, while you sit undisturbed and the bike never seems to be jumping around unduly. The ABS brakes work well on normal road surface, as you would expect, but also on more slippery surfaces, ensuring your safety on wet or dirty roads. And if you decide to hop off the road for some playtime in the dirt, the system can be deactivated in order to allow you to use the appropriate braking and sliding techniques.

The driving position is rather straight up, allowing your hands to fall effortlessly on the grips, and the levers and controls are easy to use. Let’s talk about the seat, well proportioned but a bit stiff for my taste. I even wonder if you can actually get used to it. The rather small wind deflector blocks the storm up to shoulder height, leaving your head to deal with headwind and turbulence, which is what some riders prefer. For wimpier riders, a larger windshield is available at no extra cost, as well as the hand guards missing from the bike we tested.

2012 BMW F800GS

2012 BMW F800GS

2012 BMW F800GS

 Its torque, agility, comfort and easy-to-use controls make it an ideal bike for those who learned the basics on a 125 or similar bike and want to upgrade to a large machine. The 85 ponies won’t scare anyone, and the brakes and suspension know how to win your trust. For the older, oops, more experienced among us, the F800GS delivers enough performance for 99% of our solo activties, and it also easily accommodates a passenger. On the road, the F800GS can quickly accelerate to illegal speeds. Throttle response is instantaneous, and passing a car is done effortlessly and more often than not without having to downshift.
Comments on the looks of the bike have always been positive: it’s simple and well proportioned, and without the somewhat spidery look associated with its older, well known and well loved sibling, the R1200GS.

The 2012 BMW F800GS hits the bulls-eye with enthusiasts looking for generous performance, easy comfort and a motorized toy at home in town, on the road and off. And if the devil pushes you towards sportier activities, it won’t embarrass you! Now all this come at a price, but it won’t take you long before you realise that you are at the top of the world when it comes to shear riding pleasure when the adventure takes you places you’ve only dreamt of; the choice is yours!

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2012 BMW K1300S Aerodynamic

The 2012 BMW K1300S: supreme power with the sportiest of understatement. Why not try it out right away! The interceptor. The athlete. Aerodynamic, avant-garde. Do you know of another sporty bike with this profile? A bike that develops such pulling power with 175 bhp that it take the heat out of many a 200 bhp bike? But a bike you can still take out on a quick trip simply because it has great everyday suitability? At the same time a technological treat? The reasons: 140 Nm from 1,293 cc and at 8,250 rpm too. With a throaty sound from a cool, hexagonal tube. With catalytic converter and exhaust valve. And with fuel consumption and exhaust emission values which would suit many a machine with half the dynamic performance.

2012 BMW K1300S

The new 2012 BMW K1300S with this jet, the whole concept of speed moves into a new dimension. This in-line 4-cylinder delivers its power in such a way that you can almost feel it when standing still. That’s because within the engine speed ranges in which you move more than 80% of the time – i.e. the lower and medium speed ranges – it delivers performance from the first yard. The real thing. And in terms of safety features, this machine is unique: ABS as standard with ASC and ESA optional. And the extras are amazing: race through the gears with the automatic shift function, pure racing in view with the 2D dashboard.

Enjoying dynamics requires safety down to the last detail. And that is something that BMW Motorrad has been constantly reinventing for more than 20 years. The K 1300 S enjoys an excellent reputation when it comes to the fastest connection from A to B and it fully deserves to:

High tech for everyday use

The K 1300 S is a unique interpretation of the speedbike theme. It represents a union of fascinating and innovative high-performance engineering combined with excellent all-round and everyday suitability, not to mention excellent safety.

175 hp and 140 Nm: power and understatement

Not that this jet was ever slow, but in comparison with its predecessor, its engine performance and torque specifications have been increased even more, something which, this being a genuine BMW, it bears discreetly. After all, it is a superior pioneer in its class.

2012 BMW K1300S

2012 BMW K1300S

The very latest streamline shape

Maybe there is such a thing as perfect aerodynamics. And perfect design. The K1300S combines both of these with its own line, one which others will spend a long time searching for.

The seat of speed.

Like barely any other speedbike, the K1300S has managed to make the connection between the stable chassis characteristics of a supersport machine and ergonomic design for thousands of kilometres. Of course. It is a BMW.

2012 BMW K1300S

Individual safety.

The diverse optional extras make the K1300S even more individual. In particular, the new ESA II, which allows the rider to configure his chassis settings on the move, once again underlines BMW Motorrad's innovative lead – and not only in terms of safety.

If you believe BMW K1300S motorcycling is all about racing, if your favourite stretch of road has a name like Nürburgring, Monza or Laguna Seca, if you prefer travel of the faster kind, then this is the place for you. Whether you prefer a speedbike or a genuine racer: optimum power-to-weight ratio, breathtaking acceleration and comforting deceleration performance levels are guaranteed. Do you want to feel the ride with all of your senses, adopt a body posture which shows everyone exactly what you’re about  is that what you want? If this is you, you should definitely read on, because this is where you’ll find sports machines which are not only brilliant on the race track but are just as fantastic on the way there and on the way back. BMW Motorrad sports machines are definitely among the most dynamic motorcycles machines in existence, with perfect control.

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2012 BMW K1600GT Leading Touring Sports

The BMW K1600GT new 6-cylinder touring bikes also benefit from the innovative Electronic Suspension Adjustment II (ESA II), which is offered as a special equipment feature ex works. With this system, globally unique on the motorcycle market, the rider can conveniently press a button to electronically adapt not only the rebound damping properties of the front and rear spring strut but also the spring rest ("spring preload") of the rear spring strut as well as the latter's spring rate and therefore the "hardness" of the suspension. This makes for outstanding stability and impressive responsiveness in all load states.

The additional adaptation of the spring rate allows the damping settings "Sport, Normal, Comfort" to be spread widely in ESA II, giving them clearly perceptible characteristics during riding. So in "Sport" mode, the K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL are even more dynamic and precise and in "Comfort" mode they are more comfortable - while still retaining excellent stability.

2012 BMW K1600GT

2012 BMW K 1600 GT

With the new BMW K1600GT Motorrad touring bikes, the first ever "Adaptive Headlight" option is available ex works in the motorcycle sector as a supplement to the standard xenon headlamp. In addition to standard pitch compensation, the light of the main headlamp is also balanced in relation to banking angle. This produces significantly improved illumination of the road when cornering and therefore an enormous increase in active riding safety. The instrument panel of the K 1600 models comprises two classic circular instruments for the speedometer and tachometer and a 5.7-inch TFT.

Another world first is the Multi-Controller as part of an integrated operating concept, first introduced in the BMW R 1200 RT at the end of 2012. In addition to audio system control, the K 1600 models also have a menu for operating the comfort functions and on-board computer. The bike's aerodynamic qualities in terms of reduced air swirl - especially in the pillion passenger area - were developed in sophisticated wind tunnel
tests. But the windshield not only protects the rider and pillion passenger: it automatically returns to the starting position when the ignition is switched off, acting as an anti-theft system for the optionally available navigation system.

2012 BMW K1600GT

2012 BMW K 1600 GT

The design of the ergonomic triangle from the position of the footrests, seat top and handlebars makes for a highly proactive seating position in the K1600GT, while still retaining a high level of long-distance comfort. The rider and pillion passenger enjoy a comfortable knee angle but the seating position is geared towards the front wheel for a dynamic riding style. The seat is height-adjustable in the rider area so that it can be adapted to individual needs.

The K 1600 GT is has a very extensive range of standard features ex works consisting of xenon headlamps, heated grips and seat, cruise control and onboard computer. In conjunction with the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW Motorrad 6-cylinder engine, this motorcycle leaves nothing to be desired as far as the proactive touring rider is concerned.

2012 BMW K1600GT

2012 BMW K1600GT Interior

The luxurious touring bike BMW K 1600 GT meets the very highest demands. Rider and pillion passenger benefit from the very relaxed, upright seating position as is especially appreciated over long distances. The
ergonomic design is geared towards maximum comfort and derives from a single-section, dual level seat in conjunction with rider footrests which are further forward and lower, as well as handlebars which reach further backwards. The standard topcase rounds off the range of comfort features for the pillion passenger.

Like the BMW K 1600 GT, the K 1600 GTL has a very extensive range of standard features consisting of xenon headlamps, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. The overall impression of the fascinating 6-cylinder motorcycle in combination with a carefully conceived storage concept, a standard audio system and numerous design elements make the BMW K1600GT the flagship model among the BMW Motorrad touring bikes.

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2012 BMW R1200S Boxer Sport Engine

A further pedigree racing detail is the standard gearshift assistant of the new 2012 BMW R1200S, also described as an automatic gearshift. The system allows rapid gear change without reducing the gas or using the clutch. If the gear lever is activated, the electronic engine controlthrottles back the ignition angle and reduces the injection. This means the power unit is at “low load” for the gearshift so it is possible to change gear rapidly without needing the clutch. The gearshift assistant operates under normal riding conditions and, on request, for racing with an inverted switching scheme (pressure sensor as special equipment). However, if the rider actuates the clutch, the system remains inactive. The 2012 BMW R1200S therefore always leaves the decision of whether or not the gearshift assistant is deployed to the driver.

2012 BMW R1200S

The steel tube midframe comes from the BMW R 1200 S, but was adapted to the new single-piece and self-carrying CFK rear in the area around the location points. The front wheel suspension is provided by the stable, approved telescopic lever construction. Its trailing link is supported by a specially tuned hlins sport spring strut with compensating tank, adjustable in tension and compression stroke damping as well as in the spring pre-tension. The expanded surface around the slider clamping device in the lower fork brace allows fine adjustment of the vehicle height.

The upper fork brace and the two adjustable high-quality stock handlebars flange-mounted in the crankshaft throw are made from fully milled, forged aluminium parts. The main brake cylinder and the clutch master cylinder with radial pump coupling fixed by quick-release clamping calipers usually found in racing are also used here.

The Paralever rear wheel suspension also originates from the BMW R1200S, but in the BMW HP2 Sport it has an Öhlins sporting spring strut with com-pensating tank adjustable in all aspects. Thanks to the longitudinal
adjustment integrated in the spring strut the vehicle height can also be varied at the rear. This means the chassis geometry of the BMW R1200S can be individually optimised for different racing circuits. Every BMW R1200S is supplied as standard with an exclusive toolset which can be used to make all settings
on the chassis components.

2012 BMW R1200S

2012 BMW R1200S

The  BMW R1200S runs on specially developed, weight and stability optimised, surface-milled forged wheels of size 3.5 x 17” or 6.0 x 17”. These are considerably lighter than conventional die-cast wheels, but have comparable high stability. The handling characteristics benefit enormously from the smaller rotating masses. The sports Boxer is really easy to steer on bends and allows incredibly rapid change of direction.

The forged wheels are fitted as standard with sports tyres in 120/70 ZR17 format at the front and 190/55 ZR17 at the rear. These tyres from renowned manufacturers generally used only on the racing circuit such as the Supersport championship, for example are homologated for use on asphalt road surfaces. The engineers decided on a 55 series tyre cross-section as this achieved the best results for the overall characteristics in tests.

The braking system of the new BMW R1200S also presents itself as uncompromisingly sporty. Single-piece, radially mounted four-piston brake calipers from Brembo that hold the two 320-millimetre discs powerfully in its grip are used on the front. The radial screw connection is effected by a new die-cast foot on the lower part of the Telelever. A double sliding piston decelerates the rear wheel. It goes without saying that
the hydraulic application of the brake calipers is activated by high-quality, steel armoured brake lines.

BMW Motorrad offers an ABS adapted to sporting events as an option. The function of the system has been optimised to prevent the rear wheel from lifting. An additional pressure sensor in the front brake circuit provides sensitive regulation of the system and the control unit prevents the front wheel brakes from opening too early when the load on the rear wheel is greatly reduced. Nevertheless the ABS can be deactivated for racing events.

Even at the outset of the development, the engineers focussed on the seat position. Compared to the BMW R 1200 S, the rider moved closer to the handlebar resulting in a notably more upright seat position oriented towards the front wheel and behind the ‘waistline’ of the fairing. More importantly, the remarkably slim design of the tank area favours the rider’s weight displacement (hanging off) on the racing circuit.

2012 BMW R1200S

The range of high-grade racing components includes the adjustable footrest system made of milled, high-strength aluminium. An eccentric cam is used to adjust the height of the footrests and to move them
forwards or backwards. Stepped setting positions of the footrests make sure that identical adjustment is possible on both sides. At the same time, the likewise fully adjustable brake and gear lever allow optimal positioning of the operating elements.

The range of high-grade racing components includes the adjustable footrest system made of milled, high-strength aluminium. An eccentric cam is used to adjust the height of the footrests and to move them
forwards or backwards. Stepped setting positions of the footrests make sure that identical adjustment is possible on both sides. At the same time, the likewise fully adjustable brake and gear lever allow optimal positioning of the operating elements.

All the fairings of the BMW HP2 Sport are made from carbon where the single-part rear as well as the front fairing are realized as self-supporting elements. The latter has a noticeably slimmer construction than the BMW R1200S and houses lightweight, high-luminosity halogen twin headlamps with free-formed surface reflectors. Special details include the number plate carrier of the BMW R1200S : It can be removed along with the tail lamp and indicators in a few easy steps before taking part in a race.

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BMW K1300GT New Release 2012

Gran Tourismo - or in the case of the BMW K1300GT or BMW K 1300 GT quite simply one of the fastest movers around. It opens up a new era in the timing of long distances. Nonetheless: impressive though the average travel times may be on this machine, its performance is also fascinating at low speeds, for example after a hairpin bend. This is because at engine speeds you operate in more than 80% of the time on the road – i.e. the lower and middle ranges – this engine adds something you can feel instantly: 99 lb/ft from 1,293 cc. No ifs or buts. And 160 hp for the three-lane motorway. The fact that this in-line 4-cylinder is very low-key when it comes to fuel consumption and exhaust emissions makes fast travel even more pleasing.

BMW K1300GT

BMW K1300GT

BMW K1300GT

 And it Gran Tourismo - or in the case of the BMW K1300GT or BMW K 1300 GT quite simply one of the fastest movers around. It opens up a new era in the timing of long distances. Nonetheless: impressive though the average travel times may be on this machine, its performance is also fascinating at low speeds, for example after a hairpin bend. This is because at engine speeds you operate in more than 80% of the time on the road – i.e. the lower and middle ranges this engine adds something you can feel instantly: 99 lb/ft from 1,293 cc. No ifs or buts. And 160 hp for the three-lane motorway. The fact that this in-line 4-cylinder is very low-key when it comes to fuel consumption and exhaust emissions makes fast travel even more pleasing. And it also demonstrates once again how modern engines ought to be built.

BMW K1300GT

BMW K1300GT

BMW K1300GT Speedometer

The success formula K1300GT is the sum of many intelligent details: top ergonomics - both at front and rear, exemplary aerodynamics and weather protection, safety (ABS as standard, ASC as an option) which sets standards. And a level of comfort which enables relaxed, supreme travel. Then there is a high-precision chassis with a low centre of gravity, as well as optional ESA II to adapt the chassis mode at the press of a button. So here’s a tip: save yourself the effort of looking for an alternative. Get into gear right away. The BMW K1300GT: dynamic performance has never been more stylish.

BMW K1300GT Specifications

Engine
Type    Water-cooled 4-stroke in-line four-cylinder, four valves per cylinder, two overhead   camshafts, dry sump lubrication
Bore x stroke    80 mm x 64.3 mm
Capacity    1.293 cc
Rated output    160 hp (118 kW) at 9,000 rpm
Max. torque    99 lb/ft (135 Nm) at 8,000 rpm
Compression ratio    13.0 : 1
Mixture control / engine management    Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management including knock sensor (BMS-K)
Emission control    Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3

Performance / fuel consumption
Maximum speed    Over 125 m.p.h. (200 km/h)
Fuel consumption per 100 km at constant 90 km/h    5,0 l
Fuel consumption per 100 km at constant 120 km/h    5,9 l
Fuel type    Unleaded Premium

Electrical system
Alternator    three-phase alternator 945 W
Battery    12 V / 19 Ah, maintenace-free

Power transmission
Clutch    Multiple-disc clutch in oil bath, hydraulically operated
Gearbox    Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox
Drive    Shaft drive

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BMW K1200LT New Release 2012

For those touring fans who insist on being pampered, the BMW K 1200 LT is the ultimate two-wheeled 7 Series. This bike-with-everything-on-it has surprising agility, hold-onto-your-helmet acceleration from a powerful 116 hp in-line four cylinder, five speed (plus reverse) engine and supreme accommodations for rider and passenger to cruise across continents in style. The standard features read like a sybarite’s wish list: integral anti-lock brakes, Electronic Suspension Adjustment, electrically adjustable windshield, hydraulic centerstand, heated grips and seats, audio system with RDS radio and single CD changer, Tire Ppressure Monitor, cruise control, anti-theft alarm and Xenon headlamp (and more). Factor in 71 liters of stowage space and prep for a BMW Navigator GPS and the open road becomes a place of indulgence, excitement, and total freedom. All of this for a price that makes every mile a bargain.

BMW K1200LT

BMW K1200LT

2012 BMW K1200LT

BMW K1200LT

2012 BMW K1200LT

BMW K1200LT Speedometer

Among the forty-four standard features included on the dynamically modified BMW K 1200 LT or BMW K1200LT are a higher output engine, a modified gearbox, chrome package, a redesigned instrument panel and seats, a new paint finishes, and an electro-hydraulic center stand. Engineered for high-performance hauls over endless lengths of road, the K1200LT offers one of the smoothest, most comfortable rides imaginable.

BMW K1200LT Specifications

Engine
Type    Water-cooled, 4-stroke in-line four-cylinder, two camshafts, four valves per cylinder
Bore x stroke    70.5 mm x 75 mm
Capacity    1172 cc
Rated output    116hp (85 kW) at 8,000 rpm
Max. torque    86 lb/ft (120 Nm) at 5,250 rpm
Compression ratio    10.8 : 1
Mixture control / engine management    Electronic intake pipe injection/BMW engine management,    Motronic MA 2.4 with overrun fuel cut-off
Emission control    Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3

Performance / fuel consumption
Maximum speed    over 125 mph (200 km/h)
Fuel consumption per 100 km at constant 90 km/h    4.3 l
Fuel consumption per 100 km at constant 120 km/h    5.7 l
Fuel type    Unleaded Premium

Electrical system
Alternator    three-phase alternator 840 W
Battery    12 V / 19 Ah, maintenance-free

Power transmission
Clutch    Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Gearbox    Constant mesh 5-speed gearbox (overdrive) plus additional reversing aid
Drive    Shaft drive

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2012 BMW F 800 ST Brembo Four Piston Hydraulic

The twisties are yours to devour anywhere in the country aboard the new 85 bhp BMW F 800 ST, which is the touring version of the lithe new F 800. With a full fairing, high windshield and touring oriented ergonomics with raised handlebars, bombing down any road you choose is as comfortable as it is thrilling. Two 320 mm diameter front brake disk and Brembo four piston hydraulic calipers, and with optional ABS every ride stopping power is guaranteed. Add optional touring cases and heated grips and you've got a bike that is fast, flickable, and above extraordinarily capable. No matter where you want to ride, the sharp-handling F 800 ST gets you there, mile after mile.

2012 BMW F 800 ST

2012 BMW F 800 ST

From taking your very first steps, to setting off on a once in a lifetime adventure, BMW Rider Training will be with you. Our friendly and experienced instructors will take you through the stages required to get your licence – from your Compulsory Basic Training through to your Direct Access test and become a confident, safe and happy rider. And your relationship with BMW Rider Training doesn’t stop once you’ve passed your test – BMW Road Skills helps riders to improve and hone their skills and techniques with a range of courses on the very best roads that Wales has to offer! 

2012 BMW F800ST

2012 BMW F800ST

Last year saw the debut of BMW F 800 ST Rider Training’s popular First Aid course. For 2012 the course is now First Bike On Scene (FBOS) approved – we’re the only accredited provider in South Wales. The FBOS scheme was the first specialist motorcycle first aid course, designed entirely for riders and approved by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the course is essential for touring riders, adventure tourers and anyone who may be riding in remote areas.

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2012 BMW F650GS With GPS Technology

In the first installment of this series, I addressed what I felt were the most basic requirements for getting a BMW F650GS ready for traveling the North American back country. The primary focus was getting the required gear and supplies (food, water, shelter, tools, etc.) on the bike, and addressing some critical equipment deficiencies with respect to long-distance travel. I’ve now put 13,000 miles on the BMW, and I’m still convinced I made the right choice when I decided to start with the F650. It is as smooth, quiet, and comfortable as ever, and continues to sip fuel at a rate of 65 to 70 mpg, giving me an un-laden range upwards of 200 miles before I get into the .8-gallon reserve. With a full load and freeway speeds, the mileage drops just below 60 mpg, reducing the usable range to approximately 185 miles.

2012 BMW F650GS

2012 BMW F650GS

The F650GS has gained a bit of weight with its modifications, currently tipping the scales at 485 pounds. This extra weight, combined with the added wind resistance of the aluminum panniers, has taken its toll on the top speed. Additionally, the Continental tires introduce a bit of head shake beginning at about 80 mph, and getting rather scary as you push past 90 mph. But the bike is not built for the race track, and given the long life and great traction offered by these tires, they are a good choice. I currently have just over 5,000 miles on the set, and the rear tire is on its last leg. A conservative riding style and limited time with heavy loads have contributed greatly to the tire life.

The F650GS in touratech tank bag has proven to be too tall for me. When loaded with gear, it forces me to bend at the hips while standing on the pegs, which leads to a sore back and a poor-handling bike. The materials and construction are not the issue; the bag is simply too tall for me, as are all of the other bags in this size range. It has subsequently been removed. The aluminum panniers from Jesse Luggage Systems have seen a fair amount of abuse, and are holding up in superb fashion. One hard high-side into a ditch after I took a corner too wide should have destroyed the right side box. Instead, it has two small dents and a couple of scratches in the finish. The camera gear inside was unscathed.

2012 BMW F650GS

2012 BMW F650GS

The F650GS performs very well in its current state, but like any other project, there are areas that can be improved and money that can be spent. The biggest deficiency the bike had at the conclusion of the last installment was the lack of navigation aids. Paper maps stuffed into the panniers are not all that convenient. A proper GPS unit was a logical step up. After reviewing several units (see Overland Journal Fall 2007 for a GPS comparison), I decided that the Garmin GPSMap 276C would be the best unit for my needs. Despite the proprietary data card and software, the 276C is a nearly perfect combination of size and ergonomics for F650GS use on a dual-sport bike.

The buttons are big enough and spaced far enough apart to allow easy manipulation, even when wearing heavy winter gloves. Additionally, the high-contrast screen makes it visible during even the brightest days. The F650GS only thing that is not readily available is a screen protector. I consider these vital as I find myself continually wiping the dust off the screen while on the trail. Fortunately, there are many screen protectors available for flat-screen monitors, so I ordered one from an internet store and cut it down to fit the Garmin. I used a vibration-damping GPS mount from Touratech to attach the 276C to the handle bars. This locking mount is both lightweight and durable. Installation is as simple as tightening four carriage bolts. The only downside is that the position of the GPS with this mount partially blocks the view of the speedometer. A simple solution is to set the display on the GPS to indicate your speed.

2012 BMW F650GS

2012 BMW F650GS

Wiring is straightforward with the 276C, as it runs off 12V DC. There is no need to step down the voltage as with some of Garmin’s earlier GPS units. I decided to hardwire the GPS to the back of the accessory outlet. A two-wire pigtail with a dust-tight connection allows removal of the wiring if the need ever arises. When F650GS doing this, be sure that the positive lead is shielded on the bike side of the connection. This will prevent the positive lead from shorting to the frame if the pigtail is ever disconnected. One word of caution though: this gives power to the GPS at all times, so care must be taken to not let the GPS run the bike’s battery down. The amp draw on the GPS is very low, and this bike is ridden nearly every day, so this has not been a problem.

BMW F650GS with the GPS installed, I turned my attention to the chassis. As anyone who has traveled with a 550-plus-pound motorcycle off-road will tell you, they get heavy and like to fall down from time to time, particularly late in the afternoon after a long day of riding. Rock rash on my transmission case, panniers, fender, and mirrors are testament to this. In an effort to prevent severe damage to the engine or transmission, I ordered a set of

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2012 BMW G650GS Stronger Powerful

2012 BMW G650GS

The BMW G650GS is a match for any surface. LAMS approved and equipped with ABS as standard, this is the defi nitive multi-talented bike for everyone, including learners and returning riders. Whether it’s tiny alleyways in town, sweeping bends on country roads or adventurous wild terrain, the light handling is a winner.
The G650GS is powered by a 652cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with double overhead camshafts. According to BMW, the engine delivers 48hp at 6500rpm and 44 ft-lb. at 5000rpm.

2012-Bmw-G650Gs-4

2012 BMW G650GS

2012 BMW G650GS

2012 BMW G650GS

2012 BMW G650GS

BMW G650GS ENGINE
Type Water-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, four
valves, two overhead camshafts, dry sump lubrication
Bore / stroke 100 mm x 83 mm
Capacity 652 cc
Rated output 37 kW (50 hp) at 6,500 rpm
Max. torque 60 Nm at 4,800 rpm
Compression ratio 11.5 : 1
Fuel / engine management Electronic intake pipe injection / BMW engine
management, twin-spark ignition
Emission control Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission
standard EU-3

PERFORMANCE / FUEL CONSUMPTION
Maximum Speed  approx. 170 km/h
Fuel consumption
per 100 km at constant 90 km/h 3.2 l
per 100 km at constant 120 km/h 4.3 l
Fuel type Unleaded regular, minimum octane rating 91 (RON)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Alternator Three-phase alternator 400W
Battery 12 V / 12 Ah

POWER TRANSMISSION
Clutch Multiple-disc clutch in oil bath, mechanically operated
Gearbox Constant mesh 5-speed gearbox integrated into crankcase
Drive Endless O-ring chain with shock damping in rea wheel hub

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2012 BMW K1600GTL Touring Concept

Ever since BMW Motorrad presented the concept study Concept 6 in autumn 2009, the new 6-cylinder in-line engine installed in it has caught the imagination of many motorcycle fans. For over seven decades now, 6-cylinder in-line engines have stood for fascinating engine technology in automobiles at BMW more than with any other brand. With the new BMW K1600GT and BMW K1600GTL, BMW motorcycles are now available for the first time with a 6- cylinder in-line power unit developed in-house. The two touring motorcycles have a supreme, impressive and equally distinctive appearance, creating a desire to travel at first sight.

2012 BMW K1600GTL

2012 BMW K 1600 GTL

For decades, 6-cylinder in-line engines have exercised a special fascination. In addition to their perfect running smoothness they also offer supreme output and torque, giving the rider powerful emotional impressions. In addition to safety, equipment and comfort, prestige and dynamic performance are the key criteria for a supreme touring bike. With the most compact in-line 6-cylinder engine in serial motorcycle production to date, the K1600GTL penetrate a whole new dimension in terms of riding properties, long-distance suitability and comfort. They combine maximum agility and riding dynamics with a luxurious overall package. With an engine output of 118 kW (160 bhp) and a maximum torque of 175 Newton metres, their 6-cylinder engine provides superb propulsion in all conditions.

2012 BMW K1600GTL

2012 BMW K 1600 GTL

Previously, the in-line arrangement of six cylinders resulted in either very long or very wide constructions, depending on the installation position, which led to drawbacks in terms of chassis geometry, weight distribution and centre of gravity. This where the K 1600 GTL break new ground.

Weighing 102.6 kilograms, the engine is by far the lightest serially produced 6-cylinder in-line engine for motorcycles in the class > 1000 cc. What is more, the engine is significantly narrower in construction width than all other 6-cylinder in-line motorcycles in serial production to date. This extremely compact construction and reduced width was achieved in particular by means of a cylinder bore of 72 millimetres in conjunction with a spacing of just 5 millimetres between the cylinder the cylinder sleeves.

2012 BMW K1600GTL

2012 BMW K1600GTL Interior

Both the low engine weight and the consistent lightweight construction of the vehicle as a whole contribute to the low weight of the vehicle. At 319 kg (K 1600 GT without panniers) and 348 kg (K 1600 GTL with panniers and topcase) the new touring bikes are in the lower range of the segment. The essential chassis elements of the K 1600 GTL are the light alloy bridge-type frame, and the Duolever and Paralever for wheel control at front and rear. Because of the special requirements of a touring bike with a 6-cylinder engine, particular attention was paid to balancing the masses.

The interplay of K1600GTL chassis and engine position, together with the seating position of the rider, not only makes for a low overall centre of gravity with a very favourable concentration of masses, it also provides an ideally balanced wheel load distribution for excellent riding properties. The combination of ride stability, riding dynamics and lightness of handling in all riding and load conditions sets a new benchmark in the touring bike segment.

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