features	equipment	accessories	specifications	colors	calculator	shop

More of everything you want.
The next generation of the R 1200 GS.

The R 1200 GS is an icon that represents what a serious rider wants. The up-right in control feeling riding position makes this bike as cool on the street as off the beaten path. The leader ongoing in the high end dual purpose market can no longer be confined to its traditional role. With this revision the R 1200 GS will be, more then any predecessor, the bike which will appeal to the widest group of riders. Harley owners and sport touring riders are welcome.

The most important features of the revised R 1200 GS at a glance:

• New design
• Engine power increased by 5%
• Introduction of the new and optional enduro ESA
• Better ergonomics through new aluminum handlebar, and newly designed seat
• New wheels and fork tubes

Design:

The Enduro nature of the bike has been enhanced. The knee covers have been replaced by high quality nano-layered stainless steel covers in the front tank area. The upper front has also been redesigned to create a more rugged appearance. In order to emphasize the adventure-ready looks of the new R 1200 GS, technical surfaces, such as the silver fin, the magnesium colored anodized slide tubes, and the magnesium colored cylinder head covers have been redesigned to create a dynamic contrast with the traditional painted surfaces.

Engine and Drivetrain:

The 2008 R 1200 GS engine now makes 5% more power (105hp) and maximum engine speed has been increased to 8,000 rpm giving an even wider spread of power. The transmission has completely revised transmission ratios with a focus on better acceleration in the upper half of the speed range which makes low speed traction even better. In addition the transmission has increased bearing diameters to cope with the extra power and increased revs.

Chassis and Suspension:

After a successful launch of ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) this technology is now coming to the enduro segment for the first time with the new R 1200 GS. Enduro ESA was designed to meet the special needs of an adventure tourer and is a full factory option. Load options are solo rider, rider with luggage, and passenger. Further, there are three damper modes (Sport, Normal, and Comfort). Note that in all settings the front spring preload is always at the minimum.

The new off road mode has two spring options (Medium Reserves and Maximum Reserves) and three damping modes (Soft, Norm, and Hard). In the Medium Reserves setting the front preload will be increased to 50% as well as the rear. This setting is ideal for both slow and fast off road riding where no large bumps or holes are expected. In the Maximum Reserves setting the front and rear preload is set to 100%. This setting should be used when maximum puncture protection is required for rough off road use with large bumps and holes. The ground clearance in this mode is approximately 0.78 inches higher than in the solo rider on road mode.

Ergonomics:

In addition to the above improvements, the new R 1200 GS also benefits from other small details. For instance there is a new conical aluminum handlebar. This new handlebar is combined with new clamps which can be mounted in two different positions for more rider comfort when off road in the standing position. For the on road sitting position, the seat foam thickness at the front of the seat has been increased.