BMW R 1200 GS LC RALLYE

BMW Motorrad introduced the latest versions of the R1200 GS, the Rallye and the Exclusive, in April 2017. The launch took the form of a tarred routein a Nature Reserve, and a return trip mostly on gravel roads – a route that allowed us to explore the bikes properly and answer the one big question: is it any different from the previous version? BMW says that the R1200 GS has now been optimised in a wide range of areas with selective improve-ments, new features and an expanded program of optional equipment and optional accessories. The new models retain the 92 kW air/liquid-cooled boxer motor with 125 Nm of torque at 6 500 rpm,but it sports an altered catalytic converter and a new data status for the engine management to meet the latest EU 4 requirements. In addition to the existing two riding modes, Rain and Road” new R 1200 GS also comes standard with Riding Modes Pro which adds “Dynamic”, “Dynamic Pro”, “Enduro” and “Enduro Pro” to the standard package. It also comes with bank-angle aware Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), as well as Automatic Stability Control (ASC) for optimum traction. One of the big changes is the availability of the optional Dy-namic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), which includes an automatic self-levelling function to compensate for all load states. The bikes also feature quick-shifters (BMW Gear Shift Assist Pro). BMW describe the Rallye version as the sportiest GS, with a number of unique details such as a low-cut sports windshield, stainless steel radiator trim, a radiator guard, wide enduro footrests and a special frame guard to protect the section of the suspension in the boot area from unwanted scrape marks. In Exclusive guise, the new R 1200 GS comes with a much more sober paint scheme and fuel tank side trim panels to give it a distinguished look. There are three settings for the ESA: minimum, maximum and automatic. While surrounded by competitors that offer more than the 1200 GS in one or two specific areas, the big Beemer remains the benchmark against which adventure bikes are measured because of its all-round versatility – from commuting to high-speed touring to serious off-road riding, the GS adapts without so much as a second thought. And that means that if you look beyond a champion feature or two, there are few bikes that can challenge the R1200 GS for its Swiss Army knife-like utility.

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