Where in the World is Bob?

Where in the world is Bob? Attending the dealer launch of the 2013 water-cooled R 1200 GS in Marrakesh, Morocco that’s where!! Jealous?! We are too but be patient it won’t be too much longer until BMW’s latest innovative machine is here and available for test rides. According to BMW Motorrad these bikes should be arriving by the first of April (no joke!).

The introduction of the water-cooled R 1200 GS is taking BMW motorcycles in a new and exciting direction. With this new design, we can only assume it is just a matter of time before the R1200R and RT follow suit and become liquid cooled, closing one chapter in BMW history and beginning a new one!

Since 1994 this is the first complete redesign of BMW’s flat iconic twin engine and the design is nothing short of perfection:

• Combined air/liquid cooling improves cooling efficiency and keeps engine temperature in check
• Precision cooling (a technology used in Formula 1 racing) is directed primarily to the cylinder head where cooling is most critical allowing for a compact, light-weight radiator
• Light weight radiators = better dynamics and more appealing design with less exposed, plus higher placement (great feature for an off-road bike!)
• More horsepower (125hp) and torque and less fuel consumption (6% less!)
• Airbox and intakes have higher placement which improves water crossing ability
• Vertical flow from the airbox and cylinder intakes moving from the back to the top of the engine, improves engine response
• Same length intake ports and injectors are now closer to the valves for optimal throttle response
• For the first time a flat twin’s gearbox is integrated into the crankcase for enhanced torsional rigidity, a more compact power-train, and improved gear shifting
• New 8-disc multi-plate wet clutch improves resistance to overheating
• 3 ramps in the supporting plate and clutch drive for anti-hopping (slipper clutch) properties and to self energize clutch engagement, offering reduced clutch pull effort plus the clutch is more easily accessible simplifying and reducing maintenance costs
• Improved gear shifting
• Combined engine and gearbox chambers eliminate the need for a separate gearbox oil change, reducing costs of maintenance

Other Exciting Features

• For the first time in GS history…cruise control!
• New continuous tubular steel bridge type frame including a bolt on rear frame that can be easily replaced if damaged, as well as bolt on rear foot pegs that can be removed saving weight and preventing potential rear frame damage, plus reduced width in leg area improving handling and resulting in a better riding experience.
• 5 ride modes: rain, road, dynamic, endure, and endure pro allowing for more fun and more safety with the push of a button
• Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) adjusts to road condition in less than 10 milliseconds smoothing out the worst road or trail
  GPS preparation option that includes the mounting cradle, bracket, and BMW Multi-Controller. The cradle comes with a single key lock cylinder so no need for an additional key
• Optional LED highlight for better visibility and more distinctive look

For a technical view of the engine’s build, watch this video.