Endurance test interim report BMW R 1200 GS (2014)
How does it look after 35,000 kilometers?
With a crashing gearbox, the new BMW R 1200 GS initially damaged its reputation enormously. In the meantime, the Bavarian has unwound 35,000 kilometers – and has advanced to become the queen of the long-term test fleet.
“You can always complain. With the GS, this takes place at the highest level, ”noted Jorg Lohse in the logbook after his very first ride with the long-term test machine. It seemed as if the travel-loving head of the advisory department with this defiant remark was the BMW, which was completely renovated for the 2013 model year R. 1200 GS as if wanted to defend against a conspiracy. What happened?
Endurance test interim balance of the BMW R 1200 GS
How does it look after 35,000 kilometers?
First inspection at 11,656 kilometers
And in June last year, too, with the first entries in the driver’s log of the endurance test BMW R 1200 GS. "Oh, the good old dry clutch …", MOTORRAD Classic editor Gerhard Eirich pointed out against the concept change. Ultimately, the clutch, which rotated in an oil bath for the first time in the history of the Boxer model, turned out to be the cause of the gearshift mishap. But more about that later.
Because initially, rapidly decreasing rear brake pads forced an unscheduled visit to the workshop after almost 8000 kilometers. The screwing staff was already aware of the faulty material quality of the brake pads in the BMW R 1200 GS of the first series, the exchange was unbureaucratic and free. However, with replacement intervals of around 10,000 kilometers, brake pad wear remains unusually high to this day. Presumably, the brake force distributor of the partially integrated brake system (hand lever activates the front and rear wheel brakes) modulates a comparatively high proportion of the brake pressure on the rear brake calliper. The first inspection at mileage 11,656 was financially reasonable with 136 euros for the oil change including working hours.
Buy the BMW R 1200 GS on markt.motorradonline.de
Exhaust & silence
14 accessory mufflers for the BMW R 1200 GS
Videos about the boxer sound
read more
Motorsport
Twin Cup 2018
Now Kawasaki is starting
read more
Enduro
BMW R 1200 GS in the top test
Model 2013 and 2012 in a comparison test
read more
Enduro
BMW R 1200 GS in the test
PS tester rides the new wild cow
read more
19.884 km: tank cap replaced, clutch pressure pin replaced
In the case of the BMW R 1200 GS, the shiftability of the transmission remained in constant criticism. With a venting of the hydraulic line, workshop manager Gerry Wagner successfully tackled an increasingly shorter lever path, but the final turn should only be brought about by the 20,000 inspection, during which the clutch pressure pin was exchanged on goodwill. The background: the original part, which is not dimensionally accurate in some of the machines delivered, causes too much engine oil to penetrate the clutch. When the clutch is disengaged, the amount of oil cannot be thrown out quickly enough. The clutch therefore only disengages incompletely (residual drag torque) and causes the lamented consequences when changing gears. Even if BMW does not provide information about the number of pressure pins replaced, it can be assumed that this is well above the communicated per mille range.
After all: Since the renovation, the control center has been largely quiet. Other current machines cannot resist the impact that is still present when engaging first gear. On the other hand, gas caps that dismantle themselves do. Test boss Gert Thole suddenly fell against the seals on the weekend 600-kilometer trip to his native Cloppenburg when opening the gas cap. Although the long-distance pilot was able to realign the rubber rings in such a way that he was spared a fuel shower during the journey, the lid was replaced as a gesture of goodwill after the 20,000 inspection (261 euros for oil, oil filter, spark plugs, air filter and working time). However, a few weeks later the part that had been unscrewed from a new machine in the workshop came apart again. Since repair number two, the tank cap on the BMW R 1200 GS has worked flawlessly.
The roar of the drive train is perceived quite differently in push mode. While some GS owners mocked this in the MOTORRAD survey, the criticism in the editorial team remains cautious. The grinding noise occurs at around 4000 rpm in both solo and passenger mode. In this respect, BMW’s attempted explanations should only partially apply. The Bavarians want to have identified a two-person vote by the ESA that was accidentally left in solo use as the cause. The rear lifted in this mode actually causes a greater articulation angle of the universal joints of the cardan and makes the drive shaft run loudly. However, since the relatively unobtrusive roar accompanies the BMW R 1200 GS even with the correct setting, its cause may lie elsewhere. It is probably due to resonance vibrations in the drive train.
Subscribe to MOTORRAD videos on Youtube
BMW R 1200 GS impresses all along the line
The list of the ailments of the new BMW R 1200 GS is not intended to call into question its fundamental qualities. Because one thing is certain: with the realignment of the GS, the Bavarians have achieved a great success. The lively boxer equipped with a significantly lower flywheel gives the overall package a noticeably sporty note without – and this is important – weakening the tourist strengths of this concept. New German would be called a win-win situation. Because just after the disparaging letter about the initially improper behavior of the clutch, Classic-Mann Eirich literally raved about it. “What a change in character! Lively, fresh, handy and yet just as suitable for travel as the previous model. A great motorcycle ”, the editor sums up. And so sums up the quintessence of the comments.
The majority of the MOTORRAD team is enthusiastic about the all-round qualities of the new BMW R 1200 GS. Because whether the first-class seating comfort for driver and passenger, the successful wind protection, the intuitively operated electronics or the huge tuning range of the new Dynamic ESA, the GS is convincing across the board. Details are also impressive. During an extensive tour of the Pyrenees by database specialist Christian Vetter, the lugs on the right suitcase broke in a fall. But because the hooks are fixed to a screwed-on bar, they can be exchanged in no time at all. The plastic damage was manageable at 82 euros for the spare part. A new original case would have cost 340 euros.
31.218 km: new front and rear brake pads
And although the Triumph Trophy and the KTM 1190 Adventure are two other long-distance alternatives to choose from in the long-term test fleet, the BMW R 1200 GS covers the test distance at high speed. Between a few Alpine crossings, many weekend trips home in high-speed mode and the daily commute, there was hardly any time for the 30,000-meter inspection. New front and rear brake pads, the replacement of the brake fluid, fresh spark plugs and oil changes burdened the endurance test cost center with 398 euros. After just seven months, there are already an impressive 35,000 kilometers on the digital display. The GS has been running smoothly since the clutch pressure pin and the tank cap were replaced. Oil consumption cannot be measured, and there are no subjective signs of wear and tear. In this respect, the signs are good that the BMW – assuming a moderate winter – will reach the 50,000-kilometer goal in record time. And to be honest: You wouldn’t have expected anything else from a GS, right?
Defects in the test
34 Pictures
Images: Endurance test interim balance of the BMW R 1200 GS (2014)
To home page
fact
Artist
Lohse
Fox
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
Hertler
mps photo studio
Jahn
Hertler
Artist
Artist
mps photo studio
wagner
Bilski
fact
fact
fact
Hertler
Hertler
Jahn
Tire recommendation
17th Pictures
Images: Endurance test interim balance of the BMW R 1200 GS (2014)
To home page
Of bus
Lohse
Manufacturer
Sdun
Of bus
Schahl
Manufacturer
mps photo studio
mps photo studio
Touratech AG
Sdun
Lohse
Of bus
Exhaust recommendation
Hertler
HP sports silencer.
Higher performance than the production version (126 PS, 4.9 kg) is hardly an issue with retrofit systems. What matters? Better sound, less weight and more torque.
HP sports silencer
The silencer manufactured by Akrapovic for the BMW high-performance accessories line is already appealing when it is attached to the BMW R 1200 GS with its first-class fit. The noble finish of the 3.6 kilo titanium part is also impressive. The test bench data too. Between 4000 rpm and 6000 rpm, the torque is well above the level of its series counterpart.
Weight: minus 27%; Performance: minus 0.4%; Price: 930 euros; Sound: fat, bassy.
Hertler
Hattech titanium oval.
Hattech titanium oval
As part of MOTORRAD’s muffler comparison test for the predecessor model of the current BMW R 1200 GS (issue 18/2013), the Hattech received a purchase tip. The 2.8 kilogram heavy titanium system for the current model also pleases with more powerful torque in the practice-relevant range at mid-speed – and a low price.
Weight: minus 43%; Performance: minus 1.7%; Price: 648 euros; Sound: deep, grumpy.
Hertler
SR racing.
SR racing
The exhaust system manufacturer from Schrobenhausen in Bavaria has a good reputation, which is also confirmed by the 3.2 kilo stainless steel system for the 2013 GS. The torque increase in the middle speed range is noticeable and measurable and far outweighs the minimal loss of peak performance. The accuracy of fit is also impressive.
Weight: minus 35%; Performance: minus 1.6%; Price: 692 euros; Sound: full, balanced.
Hertler
Termignoni slip-on 13-14.
Termignoni slip-on 13-14
Even if the manufacturer has a good reputation in racing, the silencer for the BMW R 1200 GS leaves a gap to the competition. Both torque and peak power are below the standard level, the price is higher than two of the three competitors. Even the lightest weight of the carbon damper at 2.3 kilos does not iron out this shortcoming.
Weight: minus 53%; Performance: minus 5.4%; Price: 755 euros; Sound: aggressive, loud.
Accessories put to the test
Hertler
Case (680 euros plus carrier for 185 euros).
Navigation and suitcase
For 675 euros (without bracket) the BMW Motorrad Navigator IV is not a bargain. In normal operation the signpost works satisfactorily, but the recalculation reacts with a time delay to spontaneously changed routes. In addition, the system occasionally hung up when trying to follow recorded tours. In contrast, the original cases (680 euros plus carrier for 185 euros) are convincing across the board. With the Vario technology (photo), the boxes can be easily widened by 55 millimeters each. The valuable parts can also be attached in next to no time.
Mirror broadening
Basically, the series mirrors of the BMW R 1200 GS offer a very good review. In this respect, the benefits of the 25 millimeter long mirror extensions from Wunderlich (64.90 / pair) are more limited to broad-shouldered bodybuilder types. After all: the parts are beautifully made.
fender
Visually inconspicuous, but clearly visible in their effect: the fender extensions from Wunderlich (front and rear, each 35.90 euros) effectively keep the BMW R 1200 GS blown up road debris away. Good value for money.
Windshield
There is actually no need for alternatives to the effective series windshield. But they do exist. For example from Wunderlich. The lower version “Cut” (149 euros) is slightly wider in the upper area than the standard part. The wind protection is good. The GS offers weather protection at touring level with the “Marathon” (198 euros). And: The huge sign – around 12 cm higher and 8 cm wider than the original! – creates neither turbulence nor negative pressure even at top speed. Great.
Bench
Even if the standard bench meets high demands: GS riders with a sensitive popometer or a body size outside the norm could benefit from accessories. The seat combination from Jungbluth not only looks great (driver 210 euros / pillion 180 euros). However, the upholstery is very tight. That takes getting used to. In addition, the original seat from the BMW R 1200 GS must be used as the basis. The Touratech seats (276/251 euros) became favorites. The foam rubber strikes the right compromise between comfort and the necessary firmness. Like Jungbluth and Touratech, BMW (230 euros) also supplies different seat heights. The upholstery largely corresponds to the standard bench.
Crash bars
If you look closely at the valve cover, you will notice: The crash bar (344.85 euros) with extension (206.79 euros) from Altrider (www.hattech.de) was only fitted to the endurance test BMW R 1200 GS after it fell over . The 6.3 kg heavy stainless steel cane could be fitted precisely and makes an extremely stable impression. The massive look of a travel enduro is additionally emphasized by the part.
Driver opinions
43 Pictures
Pictures: Endurance test interim balance of the BMW R 1200 GS (2014)
To home page
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
jkuenstle.de
Related articles
-
BMW R 1200 GS endurance test final balance
Endurance test final balance of the BMW R 1200 GS Storage fever at the bestseller New engine, new chassis – the long-term test of the completely…
-
Endurance final test balance Victory Hammer S
Endurance test final balance: Victory Hammer S Reader experiences Done! It took almost two years for the Hammer S to unwind its 50,000 kilometers at…
-
Endurance test final balance of the Yamaha YZF-R1
Endurance test final balance of the Yamaha YZF-R1 Endurance final test R1 All-round ?? what does that actually mean? In the 50,000-kilometer marathon,…
-
Endurance test final balance of the Kawasaki Z 1000
Endurance test final balance of the Kawasaki Z 1000 The naked bike after 50,000 km With the Kawasaki Z 1000, the 40-year tradition of the Z series is…
-
Endurance test final balance Yamaha XT 660 X
Endurance test final balance Yamaha XT 660 X The tent travelers Thirty years after their debut, the youngest generation of the Japanese packhorse also…
-
Endurance test final balance Harley-Davidson Road King
Endurance test final balance Harley-Davidson Road King Endurance test King Road King Hiss! The cool blonde tingles freshly in the stemmed glass, the eyes…
-
Endurance test interim report BMW R 1200 R
Endurance test interim report BMW R 1200 R So far without any problems In the past, BMW machines had a tense relationship with MOTORRAD’s long-term test….
-
Endurance test interim balance of Ducati
Endurance test interim balance of Ducati Ducati 1098: Viva la Diva The Ducati 1098 is an ardent commitment to the sport twin, gathers admirers and…
-
Endurance test final balance of the Kawasaki ZX-10R
Endurance test final balance of the Kawasaki ZX-10R Too good to be stripped After 50,000 kilometers, the door is opened, looked inside and measured….
-
Endurance test final balance: Aprilia RSV4 R
Endurance test final balance: Aprilia RSV4 R The super sports car from Aprilia after 50000km After the start of the superbike life for the RSV4 R with a…
Related articles
-
Endurance – Race calendar of the 2019-2020 World Endurance Championship –
Endurance test interim report BMW R 1200 R So far without any problems In the past, BMW machines had a tense relationship with MOTORRAD’s long-term test….
-
Endurance test interim balance of Suzuki SFV Gladius Conclusion after 30,000 test kilometers With the Gladius, Suzuki is targeting female buyers: low…
-
Ducati 899 Panigale in the driving report When reason is fun 898 cubic meters, 195 kg, 148 hp – according to today’s standards, which have been shot far…
-
Endurance – Le Mans and Le Bol return to the World Endurance Championship –
Double top test BMW R 1200 GS / R 1150 GS Beautiful view Cheeky to sharpen curves, dust quickly through the terrain, travel comfortably, arrive safely….
-
Endurance – 8H Doha: Suzuki world endurance champion 2011 –
Endurance test interim report KTM RC8 Conclusion after 25,000 kilometers Not an easy task to build the first super sports car in the company’s history…
-
Endurance – 2018-2019 World Endurance Championship race calendar –
Megatest Enduros 2011 The enduro mega test part 1: travel enduros up to 800 cm³ Last but not least, the new Triumph Tiger 800 XC proves that mid-range…
-
Endurance test interim balance of the BMW R 1200 GS
Endurance test interim report BMW R 1200 GS (2014) How does it look after 35,000 kilometers? With a crashing gearbox, the new BMW R 1200 GS initially…
-
MotoGP – Reports and analyzes of the 2014 Moto GP World Championship –
Triumph Thruxton R Clubman and Track Racer print Modern technology, classic look With the Modern Classics series such as the Triumph Thruxton R, Triumph…
-
Endurance – The endurance world championship straddling two calendar years –
EDIMO diesel motorcycle with smart motor Igniting Why not build a motorcycle with a self-igniting engine? A smart diesel drives the EDIMO at the…
-
Endurance – Endurance: Kawasaki Bolliger leads the world championship –
Deussen-Ducati 1040 in the test at TunerGP 2015 Miraculous change Content of Once upon a time there was a good Ducati 848. A little too good for its…