BMW R 1200 GS Adventure

The New BMW R 1200 GS Adventure

The following information is an English translation of the German press kit and some information and specifications may not apply to the U.S. models.

Further information and dates of expected U.S. availability will be provided at a later date. Text and photos courtesy of BMW AG.

Features and Highlights
Launching the R 1200 GS Adventure, BMW Motorcycles is proudly presenting the latest version of the ultimate long-distance enduro for the globetrotter and adventurer.

Apart from the unique synthesis of dynamic performance, touring and off-road qualities so characteristic of the "basic" model, the R 1200 GS Adventure offers additional off-road qualities and an even higher standard of long-distance riding comfort.

So without requiring any supplementary features, this new model from BMW Motorcycles gives the rider all these unique qualities in full straight from the factory.

Compared with its predecessor, the R 1150 GS Adventure, the new model is entering the market with numerous improvements and a far larger range of standard equipment. Its features add further potential to the unique qualities of the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure and clearly distinguishing the new model from the basic version which naturally still remains in production.

Many features previously only available as special equipment or accessories now come as standard on the new R 1200 GS Adventure, such as the 33-litre (7.3 Imp gal) fuel tank, a new windshield for enhanced protection from wind and weather, the seat adjustable for height, robust tank and engine
protection hoops, as well as extra-wide rider footrests combined with adjustable gearshift and brake levers.

With the new Adventure being based on the R 1200 GS, the rider also benefits from significantly more power and torque from BMW Motorcycle's latest two-cylinder boxer: maximum output is 74 kW/100 hp at 7,000 rpm (72 kW/98 hp at 7,000 rpm in the German version), peak torque is 115 Nm/85 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm.

The other technical features and highlights of the R 1200 GS Adventure are also the same as on the current "basic" model. Using lighter components on the engine, transmission and exhaust damper, as well as weight-optimized components such as the frame, suspension and wheels, the new R 1200 GS Adventure, despite a wider range of series equipment, does not weigh much more than the previous "basic" model.

Last but certainly not least, the new six-speed gearbox, the most recent Paralever and Telelever technology, new instruments in digital technology and the on-board network with CAN bus technology represent a significant step into the future compared with the former R 1150 GS Adventure.

The new R 1200 GS Adventure continues the successful design concept introduced by the former model, offering a unique combination of dynamic performance and robust riding qualities. High-quality materials and surfaces such as stainless steel and aluminum ensure a unique touch of clear high-tech and very functional elegance. And depending on his personal preferences, the customer can choose from two entirely different colour schemes.

Reflecting its wide range of use and riding qualities, the new R 1200 GS comes with an equally wide range special equipment and accessories.

Features available right from the factory include BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (a partly integrated, on-demand anti-lock brake system), special off-road tires, additional headlights, and an on-board computer.

Over and above these features available straight off the production line, the BMW Motorcycle Dealer is also able to offer a new range of aluminum cases, the BMW Motorrad Navigator, as well as numerous practical accessories enabling the customer to upgrade his machine individually according to personal requirements and the particular riding conditions and demands he - or she - expects to encounter.

Improved in all areas and in every respect, the new R 1200 GS Adventure is certainly a very proud successor to the former 1150-cc model. Based on the "standard" version of the R 1200 GS, this new machine is not only the ultimate long- and short-distance enduro for the globe-trotter, the adventurer and traveler, but also a professional machine for bold riders participating in overland expeditions and demanding the utmost of both themselves and their material.

And last but certainly not least, the new R 1200 GS Adventure appeals to the discerning customer looking for impressive handling qualities and a striking appearance also in everyday life.

Fuel Tank
Without doubt, one of the most conspicuous and significant new features on the R 1200 GS Adventure is the large fuel tank with useful capacity of 33 liters (7.3 Imp gals) including approximately 4 liters reserve.

This means that the rider benefits from an extra 13 liters or almost 3 Imp gals more than on the standard model - and the increase in fuel capacity is also approximately
three liters over the former R 1150 GS Adventure, where a larger tank was available only as an option.

At a steady speed of 90 km/h or 56 mph, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a - theoretical - cruising range of 750 kilometers or 465 miles. In practice, this means that the rider of the new R 1200 GS Adventure is able to cover even longer distances between stops for refueling than on any other competition model in the market.

Windshield
With its carefully conceived design, the new windshield diverts the flow of air smoothly past the rider with hardly any turbulence or air swirl, thus effectively taking the usual forces off the rider's head and upper body particularly at high speeds.

Additional, specially designed flaps behind the windshield serve furthermore to minimize any draughts in the kidney area. And since the windshield is adjustable for angle, it offers riders of virtually any size excellent protection from wind and weather in all cases.

Tank, Engine and Valve Cover Protection
Stable and robust stainless-steel pipes protect the fuel tank and engine effectively from the consequences of involuntary encounters whether off-road or on the tarmac. And at the same time high-quality aluminum covers help to avoid any traces of tough riding conditions which might otherwise be left behind on the valve covers.

Windshield
With its carefully conceived design, the new windshield diverts the flow of air smoothly past the rider with hardly any turbulence or air swirl, thus effectively taking the usual forces off the rider's head and upper body particularly at high speeds.

Additional, specially designed flaps behind the windshield serve furthermore to minimize any draughts in the kidney area. And since the windshield is adjustable for angle, it offers riders of virtually any size excellent protection from wind and weather in all cases.

Tank, Engine and Valve Cover Protection
Stable and robust stainless-steel pipes protect the fuel tank and engine effectively from the consequences of involuntary encounters whether off-road or on the tarmac. And at the same time high-quality aluminum covers help to avoid any traces of tough riding conditions which might otherwise be left behind on the valve covers.

Stainless Steel Luggage Rack
Robust and practical fastening points and supports for the rider's bags are absolutely essential for an off-roader with the qualities of a genuine global traveler. Precisely this is why the new R 1200 GS Adventure comes with a generously designed and stable luggage rack made of stainless steel perfectly accommodating, say, the optional aluminum top case.

Adjustable Seat
To ensure an optimum seating position under all conditions, the two-section seat on the new R 1200 GS Adventure can be adjusted to two different levels on the rider's area.

In its upper position with seat height of 915 millimeters or 36.0´´, the seat offers the rider all the comfort of an absolutely flat seat area without any steps in between, thus guaranteeing the freedom of movement the rider requires particularly off the beaten track.

In its lower position, the seat moves down to a level of 895 millimeters or 35.2´´, making it easier for even the somewhat shorter rider to reach the road and hold the machine securely in position, for example when stopping at the traffic lights. This is also enhanced by the particular shape and design of the seat itself, which is distinctly narrowed at the front.

Aluminum Handlebar With Hand Protectors
The high-quality, cone-shaped handlebar made of light alloy comes complete with a foam protection element embedded in a special plastic material. Practical hand protectors are also a standard feature on the new R 1200 GS Adventure.

Extra-Wide Footrests and Adjustable Gearshift and Brake Levers
Reflecting its enhanced off-road riding qualities, the new R 1200 GS Adventure comes with extra-wide rider footrests offering a particularly safe and secure position and helping the rider above all on rough tracks requiring him - or her - to stand up on the machine most of the time.

Adjustable gearshift and brake levers also meet all kinds of varying requirements, adjusting to various styles of riding and individual preferences as well as various kinds of shoes or boots,
for example touring or off-road riding boots. The height of the footbrake lever can be adjusted most conveniently by a folding mechanism on the pedal surface, the gearshift lever is adjusted by means of an eccentric kinematic unit.

Springs and Wheels
The suspension and running gear of the R 1200 GS Adventure is perfectly prepared even for the toughest off-road requirements, with an extra 20 millimeters or 0.79´´ spring travel both front and rear versus the "standard" R 1200 GS.

And to offer optimum wheel guidance, the new Adventure features the same superior lightweight elements already boasted by the R 1200 GS.

The most important highlights of the new R 1200 GS Adventure versus the "standard" R 1200 GS:

* 33-litre (7.3 Imp gal) fuel tank.
* Larger windshield.
* Tank, engine and valve cover protectors.
* Stainless-steel luggage rack.
* Adjustable seat with off-road ergonomics.
* Adjustable aluminum handlebar with hand protectors.
* Longer spring travel for superior off-road qualities.
* Cross-spoke wheels.
* Extra-wide rider footrests, adjustable gearshift and brake levers.
* High-performance 720 W alternator.

The most significant technical highlights of the new R 1200 GS Adventure versus the former R 1150 GS Adventure:

* Substantial reduction in weight.
* Significant increase in output (plus 15 per cent) and torque (plus 17 per cent).
* New six-speed manual gearbox.
* New Evo-Paralever with TDD spring struts.
* New Telelever.
* New instruments in digital technology with Info-flat-screen.
* On-board single-wire network using CAN bus technology.
* Electronic immobiliser.

The Telelever featured on the front wheel measures 41 millimeters or 1.61´´ in diameter on its fixed tube, while the Evo-Paralever at the rear boasts a central spring strut and travel-dependent damping unit (TDD) - the more the spring strut is compressed, the firmer the damper becomes. Detailed information on the frame and suspension is provided in the R 1200 GS press kit.

The new R 1200 GS Adventure comes as standard on BMW Motorrad's proven, extra-strong cross-spoke wheels offering their superior benefits particularly on extreme tracks, at high off-road speeds, and under high permanent loads and it almost goes without saying that the machine may be fitted with tubeless tyres, just as the spokes can be replaced individually one-by-one.

BMW K 1200 GT

Features and Technical Highlights
Introducing the new K 1200 GT, BMW Motorrad is strengthening its worldwide market leadership in the touring segment and gaining an even greater lead in the market.

Following the success of the former model bearing the same name, the new K 1200 GT opens up new dimensions in riding dynamics and long-distance qualities, once again proving the outstanding skills and competence of the white-and-blue marque.

A special feature of the K 1200 GT is that this new machine does not require the slightest compromise, but rather overcomes the apparent contradiction between superior sportiness and a high standard of touring comfort.

BMW's new top-end motorcycle combines maximum agility and dynamic performance with an ideal package for long trips and pleasant journeys. To reach this objective, the development engineers at BMW Motorrad have carried over the trendsetting running gear and engine technology of the former K 1200 S and K 1200 R straight into this new sporting tourer.

The innovative wheel guidance systems - the BMW Duolever at the front and the EVO-Paralever at the rear - make a very significant contribution to the excellent and highly dynamic riding characteristics of the K 1200 GT.

Drive power comes from the cutting-edge straight-four engine in transverse arrangement, developing maximum output in the GT version of 152 hp (112 kW) and thus currently setting the benchmark in the touring segment.

Not one single competitor in the market offers the same standard of dynamic performance as the new K 1200 GT. A comparison with the previous model clearly proves the huge step taken by BMW Motorrad with this new machine: The K 1200 GT is more powerful (maximum output up by 17%), develops more torque (up by 11%), offers a higher theoretical cruising range (up by 17%), and at the same time is lighter (down by 6%), but is nevertheless able to carry a higher load (up by 19%).

It goes without saying that the new GT has all the features you can rightly expect of a BMW touring machine. In particular, it is just perfect for riding with a passenger and covering long distances in comfort and style. Maximum riding comfort is indeed ensured by excellent protection from wind and weather, the electrically adjustable windscreen, perfect ergonomic design of the rider's seat thanks to flexible height adjustment of the seat itself and the handlebar, as well as side cases featured as standard.

Last but certainly not least, the K 1200 GT also meets the greatest demands in terms of environmental compatibility and safety. Apart from a fully controlled three-way catalytic converter, the high-performance EVO brake system with semi-integral ABS anti-lock brakes and an electronic immobiliser are among the features naturally offered by this sophisticated new tourer as standard equipment.

Given all these qualities and its consistency through-and-through, the new K 1200 GT is able to meet even the high standard of comfort so important to the passionate touring rider, at the same time making the sporting heart of the dyed-in-the-wool motorcycle enthusiast truly skip a beat. The "GT" abbreviation for Gran Turismo, therefore, describes this BMW sports tourer even more appropriately than ever before.

The new K 1200 GT is available in three standard colors to be combined with two contrasting colors on the side covers and the seat, thus interpreting the unique character of this Gran Turismo in various different ways.

As usual, BMW Motorrad also offers a wide range of optional extras and special equipment tailored to the new machine and leaving nothing to be desired. Apart from comfort-oriented features for traveling in style, the customer has the choice, to mention just a few examples, of Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), an on-board computer, a xenon headlight, cruise control, or the BMW Navigator.

The most important features of the new K 1200 GT in a nutshell:
- Front-mounted straight-four power unit, cylinders inclined to an angle of 55°
- 1,157 cc, 112 kW/152 hp at 9,500 rpm, 130 Nm/96 lb-ft) at 7,750 rpm
- Duolever suspension at the front
- Paralever suspension at the rear
- BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, semi-integral version
- On-board electronics with CAN-bus technology
- Electronic immobiliser
- Brake pad wear indicator
- Seat and handlebar adjustable
- Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA, optional)
- Aerodynamically optimised full fairing
- Electrically adjustable windscreen

The most important technical distinctions improving the new K 1200 GT over its predecessor:
- Increase in maximum power (+ 17%)
- Higher maximum torque (+ 11%)
- Decrease in unladen weight (- 6%)
- Higher load (+ 19%)
- Larger tank (+ 17%)
- Longer theoretical cruising range (+ 17%)

Engine
The K1200GT engine is a high-performance straight-four second-generation power unit. The new K 1200 GT is powered by the same engine that has already hit the headlines in the K 1200 S and K 1200 R.

Now the GT version of this highly advanced power unit offers maximum output of 152hp (112 kW) at 9,500 rpm and peak torque of 96 lb-ft (130 Newton-meters) at 7,750 rpm. These performance figures alone bear clear testimony to the outstanding dynamic potential of BMW's new model currently ranking right at the top in the sports tourer segment in terms of engine power.

The plateau-like torque curve with more than 75 per cent of the engine's maximum torque available from just 3,000 rpm clearly proves that the K 1200 GT offers superior acceleration and pulling force, definitely living up to its name as a Gran Turismo.

Dry sump lubrication and the position of the compact power unit with its cylinder bank tilted 55° to the front have enabled the engineers at BMW Motorrad to move the centre of gravity as far down as possible.

This optimum centre of gravity offers the best of two worlds, providing the appropriate load on the front wheel and at the same time ensuring the handling of a genuine sports machine. For a detailed description of the technical details, please see the details of the BMW K 1200 S.

Transmission
The six-speed gearbox of the BMW Motorrad K Series is both light and compact, and is conveniently integrated into the engine housing.

Particular features of the gearbox are its smooth gearshift enabling the rider to shift gears quickly and precisely, with shift travel reduced to a minimum.

Duolever Front Suspension
Like the other K-models, the new Duolever front-wheel suspension ensures superior precision and accurate tracking at all times, combined with supreme suspension comfort. The entire structure offers optimum torsional stiffness and is designed for light and agile handling. With resistance forces kept to a minimum, the suspension responds smoothly and precisely even to the smallest bumps on the road.

The kinematic configuration of Duolever suspension, finally, offers brake dive compensation remaining virtually unchanged throughout the suspension's entire spring travel. In terms of running gear and suspension qualities, therefore, the new K 1200 GT offers an ideal combination of riding comfort also on long tours and superior sportiness with a strong touch of dynamic performance.

Rear-wheel Paralever Suspension and Optional Electronic Suspension Adjustment
Developed by BMW Motorrad, the Paralever has proven for years that power transmission and rear wheel suspension can be combined with one another most efficiently. The latest Paralever is an ultra-firm lightweight construction with the spring strut connected to the rear wheel mount by a progressive
pivot link.

This not only offers significant advantages in terms of response and the progressive damping effect, but also reduces unsprung masses, minimizes load change response, offers more ground clearance, and looks highly attractive in its filigree design. In all, therefore, the Paralever is a perfect match for the concept and philosophy of the new K 1200 GT.

The K 1200 GT is available as an optional extra with BMW Motorrad's unique Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), allowing the rider to adjust the spring/damper setting individually simply by pressing a button on the handlebar.

Brakes
The new K 1200 GT proudly features BMW's proven EVO brake system with Integral ABS and brake pad wear indicator, which is also found in the other K- and R-Series models. With brake disc diameter
of 320 millimetres (12.6´´) at the front and 294 millimetres (11.6´´) at the rear, the EVO brake system is perfectly equipped to ensure superior deceleration even from high speeds with the motorcycle carrying maximum load.

The steel flex brake lines fitted as standard not only look good, but also help to provide a consistent pressure point.

Yet another standard feature is BMW Motorrad Integral ABS in its semi-integral version. On this system the rider activates the front and rear wheel brakes via the handbrake lever, while the footbrake lever acts only on the rear wheel brake - exactly the right configuration for riding in sporting style.

The new K 1200 GT also comes as an innovation with yet another safety and comfort feature fitted as standard: a brake pad wear indicator (warning indicator) telling the rider when the brake pads have been worn down to the limit and need to be renewed.

Single-Wire System (SWS) With CAN-bus Technology
It is only natural for a modern BMW motorcycle to feature a modern data bus network connecting all of the machine's electrical and electronic components, with digital information now being transmitted through one single wire. Indeed, the single-wire system dramatically simplifies the entire system of on-board electrics, reduces the need for cables and connectors, and makes the system significantly lighter.

A further essential point is that only this technology is able to provide reliable, comprehensive and quick troubleshooting and diagnostic functions. It also enables the Service Technician to read out data and/or redefine specific parameters. And last but not least, the single-wire system with CAN-bus technology allows the simple addition of electronic accessories broadening the motorcycle's wide range of functions.

Electronic Immobiliser
To make sure that only the rightful owner is able to enjoy the new K 1200 GT on the road, an electronic immobiliser comes as standard (and is also integrated in the data bus network just described). Like on a modern car, the ignition key incorporates a coded data chip communicating via a transponder in the ignition lock with the electronic engine management. So both ignition and fuel supply are only activated when the data exchanged corresponds as required, allowing the rider to start the engine.

Dashboard
The extra-large display right in the middle of the cockpit serves as the interface between man and machine. This is where the rider can check all data relevant to riding conditions and the use of his motorcycle. The system presents your overall mileage, trip mileage, the time of day, coolant temperature, the gear currently in mesh, the fuel level, and the mileage you can still cover when reaching the fuel reserve left in the tank.

The connoisseur choosing the optional ESA suspension adjustment or the TPC Tire Pressure Control system, in turn, can go even further, checking out the current set-up of the suspension and air pressure in the tyres. Even the on-board computer available as an optional extra uses the Info-Flatscreen to present its functions, illumination of the instrument being controlled automatically by a light-sensitive photoelectric cell.

Styling
The striking, aerodynamically optimized full fairing on the new K 1200 GT is unusually lean and slender for a tourer. Keeping the drag coefficient to a minimum, the fairing guarantees optimum riding stability at high speeds on the road. And despite its sporting look, the light and stable fairing, benefiting
from aerodynamic refinement, offers excellent protection from wind and weather improved to an even higher standard over the previous model.

The front end of the fairing is made up of two plastic shells and the load-bearing headlight unit. With all fairing components being easy to remove and fit back in position, maintenance and service is easy and convenient at all times.

Focusing on the shape and design of the windscreen, the designers and aerodynamicists at BMW Motorrad have created an ideal combination of maximum protection from wind and weather, on the one hand, and minimum dimensions, on the other. Carefully controlling the flow of air on the side contours, the windscreen guides the wind and air rushing by smoothly around the rider, reducing the loads acting on his head and upper body significantly even at high speeds.

A further advantage is that the light windscreen adjusts infinitely by electrical control over a range of 100 millimeters or 3.94". All the rider has to do is press a button on the left-hand handlebar to set the windscreen to his desired position. A higher windscreen (+ 60 mm/2.4") is available as special equipment, ensuring that virtually every rider, no matter how tall or how short, is able to adjust the windscreen perfectly to his requirements by choosing the right model and adjustment options.

Saddle
To ensure maximum riding comfort and freedom of movement, the specialists at BMW Motorrad have once again concentrated on the step arch length criterion in designing the seat.

This is the distance measured between the rider's two footprints across the inner length of his legs and around the seat, taking both the shape and the width of the seat into account. So clearly, the rider benefits from the slender line of both the frame and the body of the K 1200 GT.

To provide these advantages, the seat has an extremely slender waistline exactly where the rider sits, enabling him to easily reach the ground and offering a very comfortable knee angle. And to provide the final touch of perfection, the standard seat can be set to a height of either 820 or 840 millimeters (32.3 or 33.1"). A lower seat is available as an alternative for the not-so-tall rider (optional, with minimum seat height of 800 mm/31.5").

The "ergonomic triangle" made up of the footrests, the seat itself and the handlebar offers maximum freedom of movement both for sports riding and in touring, at the same time allowing the rider to cruise in relaxed style without fatigue. The passenger, finally, also enjoys the unusual seat comfort offered by a BMW.

Handlebars
To ensure that the handlebar can also be adjusted to riders of various height with their own seating preferences and different styles of riding, the handlebar is adjustable to four different levels, moving towards the upper body of the rider when required by a maximum of 40 millimetres or almost 1.6". Again, this ensures an ideal posture under all conditions, with simple, manual adjustment for height by means of teeth and bolt clamps.

Colors
The new K 1200 GT offers a perfect symbiosis of touring comfort and sporting performance - features also reflected by the design of the machine with its flowing lines and clear, striking surfaces and shapes. Self-confident, forward-urging lines clearly visible even at a standstill emphasize the dynamic character of the new K 1200 GT. And the machine's slender proportions all round, combined with the very compact engine cover, again point clearly towards the sporting and dynamic DNA of the new GT.

Seen from the front, the K 1200 GT also looks good right from the start: The windscreen and hand protectors are compact and discreet in design, the strikingly chiseled headlight stands out as a dynamic highlight typical of the brand.

The three main colors for the body of the K 1200 GT - Dark Graphite Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, and Crystal Grey Metallic - form a perfect combination with the two colors available for the side covers (on the tank and below the seat) as well as the seat itself. This colour concept clearly accentuates the special character of the K 1200 GT, with different interpretations depending on the colors chosen.

Elegant Dark Graphite Metallic combined in standard trim with lighter, Granite Grey side covers and a Grey seat, gives BMW's new tourer a most sophisticated look and at the same time emphasizes its sporting understatement.

Paintwork in Deep Blue Metallic combined with dark, slate-colored side covers and a black seat, exudes a touch of superior elegance and gives the machine a particularly luxurious look.

Crystal Grey Metallic with the seat in Black and Slate-colored side covers, finally, highlights the modern and innovative design of the new K 1200 GT. In this bright and very metallic colour scheme, the GT looks extra-light and agile, at the same time offering a special touch of extravagance.

With alternative combinations of the main colour and the colour chosen for the seat and side covers, the customer has every option to personalize the K 1200 GT to his individual wishes. Colour combinations with greater contrasts focus more on dynamic performance, underlying the differences between the rider's area and the body of the machine.

BMW F650GS

Narrowly focused sportbikes to the left, massively overwrought tourers to the right...is there any place left for the simple, do-it-all motorcycle?

Sure there is, and far from becoming an endangered species, the lightweight enduro - a kind of motorcycle that embodies off-road capabilities alongside roadworthy manners tailored to please experienced and beginning riders alike - has become immensely popular around the world.

Between 1995 and 2003, BMW has sold more than 110,000 F 650s, with 32 percent of the latest versions going to female riders worldwide). What's more, some 21 percent of F 650 buyers were new riders. And now, for the 2005 model year, BMW's entry in the amazing category returns refined, refreshed and ready to do business. Crossing continents, crossing boundaries

No motorcycle can do everything, but the BMW F 650 GS and the F 650 GS Dakar come close. Based on the fundamentally flexible "enduro" concept, the F 650 line has been carefully developed to meet a broad range of requirements, to enable cross-country travel in comfort as well as jaunts across town with consummate ease.

BMW F650GS motorcycle
For example, the Dakar, with dirt-spec tire sizes and long-travel suspension, can truly be taken off road (unlike many similarly concepted but differently equipped enduros on the market) and yet sacrifices nothing in terms of on-road civility.

Central to this multi-role versatility is the F 650's relaxed, upright riding position that is the ideal compromise between on-road comfort and off-road control. For the new F 650 GS and F 650 GS Dakar, BMW has focused on improving the bike's ergonomic profile and making it even kinder to beginning and returning riders.

To this end, a new clutch lever featuring incremental span adjustments that provide riders with smaller hands improved control and comfort (an adjustable brake lever continues as standard.)

New this year are myriad seating options for both the F 650 GS and the F 650 GS Dakar.

The GS comes with a standard low seat, and yet there is the option for an even lower seat height - as a no-cost option, the GS can be modified by the dealer with a different rear suspension link that, working in concert with repositioned fork tubes, reduces seat height to 29.5 in. (750mm).

In addition, a taller seat is available for the GS that provides taller riders with extra legroom. A lower dual seat is available for the Dakar that reduces seat height 0.8 in. (20mm).

The GS's overall compact dimensions are made possible by a slender engine and a fuel tank located under the seat. Not only does this placement improve chassis packaging, it dramatically reduces the bike's overall center of gravity, making the GS feel smaller and lighter - considerations critical to the beginning rider.

New for 2005
This year, the F 650 GS and F 650 GS Dakar have new bodywork placed upon the strong and durable steel frame. A new clear-lens headlight puts more illumination on the road and works with entirely new windscreens to improve weather and wind protection. (Both screens may be removed for off-road use. In addition, a clear version of the taller screen fitted to the Dakar is available for the standard GS.)

Revised inserts alongside what would normally be the fuel tank distinguish the new model and improve cooling by allowing more air past the oil cooler (the fuel cell is located under the rider's seat for lowered center of gravity and improved handling.) Finally, the rear luggage rack has been redesigned to accept an optional top case without an adapter plate, as required in the past.
BMW F650GS motorcycle, side view

BMW F650GS Dakar motorcycle
F Series- 2 Spark ignition for 2005
The F 650 is powered by a BMW-designed, single-cylinder engine embodying technologies not seen on other "thumpers." For 2005, the engine's technological resume stretches to include 2 Spark ignition for the four-valve cylinder head and a new and advanced BMS-C II computerized engine-control unit that dynamically manages spark and fuel delivery to suit any riding condition.

With these improvements, the liquid-cooled, 652cc engine produces fewer harmful exhaust emissions, is more fuel efficient, and has a torque peak at 4800 rpm instead of the previous model's 5000 rpm. In addition, the 2 Spark ignition system offers increased drivability, stronger mid-throttle response and greater engine flexibility. As before, the GS uses a three-way catalyst in the updated, stainless-steel exhaust system to meet the stringent Euro2 exhaust emissions requirements.

F 650 GS Dakar - True Off-Road Intentions
In addition to the standard F 650 GS - a model intended for mainly on-road escapades yet still more than capable of trips off the tarmac - BMW offers the F 650 GS Dakar. More than special paint, the Dakar embraces true off-the-beaten-path adventures with longer-travel suspension and special wheels sized to carry traditional dirt-oriented tires. Owing to the higher natural riding position, the GS Dakar sports a taller tinted windscreen that can be easily removed for off-highway treks.

Although the GS and GS Dakar may see different missions, they are both available with BMW's advanced ABS system, the only such single-cylinder bikes in this category for which this is true. To optimize the system for off-road use, the ABS may be switched off via a cockpit-mounted switch.

BMW Accessories
BMW owners, even those new to the fold, are staunch individualists, which is why there are so many options and accessories available for the new F 650 GS and F 650 GS Dakar. These include:

*ABS II with rider-selectable defeat - This system is available on both the F 650 GS and GS Dakar.
*Multiple seats - For the F 650 GS, there is a taller dual seat as well as a lowered-suspension option using the standard seat. For the Dakar, there is a lowered seat. Either the GS or the Dakar can be fitted with a special black single seat with luggage rack that provides the same seat height as the standard saddle.
*Luggage - Several soft- and hard-luggage options, including variable-thickness hard saddlebags (Vario), soft bags for passenger seat and luggage rack, a hard top case, as well as liners for the hard bags.
*Windscreen - A taller windscreen for the F 650 GS, similar to the F 650 GS Dakar's.
*New hand guards
*Heated hand grips
*Anti-theft alarm
*Engine protection kit
*On-board computer installation kit.