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2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye Overview
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 1170 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine running Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.5:1. The bore and stroke measures 101 x 73 mm. 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye delivers 125 Nm @ 6500 Revolutions of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 200 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2018 R 1200GS Rallye tips the scales at 244 kg, carries a 20-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 850 mm and spans a 1,507 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2018 R 1200GS Rallye - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
Considerations
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Tall seat height: The 850 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Throttle response and fuelling
The fuel injection on the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.
Valve clearance checks
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.
R 1200GS Rallye - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 1200GS Rallye should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any R 1200GS Rallye. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The R 1200GS Rallye's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used R 1200GS Rallye. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.
2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye have?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye uses a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine with 1170 cc of displacement.
What is the top speed of the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye has a factory-quoted top speed of 200 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye weigh?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye weighs 244 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye make?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye produces 125 Nm @ 6500 Revolutions of torque.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye has a 20-litre fuel tank.
Is the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye suitable for shorter riders?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye has a seat height of 850 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye have?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye uses Double disc. ABS. Floating discs. Four-piston calipers. at the front and Single disc. ABS. Floating disc. Two-piston calipers. at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye use?
The 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye runs 120/70-R19 front and 170/60-R17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
BMW R 1200GS Rallye Spec Evolution
The BMW R 1200GS Rallye was produced across 2 model years (2012-2018). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2012 |
2018 |
| Wet Weight |
238 kg / 525 lbs |
244.0 kg / 537.9 lbs |
| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
Balancer shaft |
| Engine Type |
Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke |
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke |
| Top Speed |
206.8 km/h / 129 mph. |
200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph |
| Seat Height |
850 mm - 870 mm / 33.4 in - 34.2 in |
850 mm / 33.5 in. |
| Fuel Capacity |
20 Litres / 5.2 US gal |
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons |
| Fuel Control |
DOHC |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
| Comments |
Blata is from the Czech Republic. |
Windscreen. Riding Modes Rain and Road. |
Key Specifications
Engine
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Torque
125.00 Nm (12.7 kgf-m or 92.2 ft.lbs) @ 6500 Revolutions
Top Speed
200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph
Weight
244.0 kg / 537.9 lbs
Fuel Capacity
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons
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Full 2018 BMW R 1200GS Rallye Specifications
Comments
Windscreen. Riding Modes Rain and Road.
Colours
Lupin Blue Metallic/Cordoba Blue/Gold
Seat Height
850 mm / 33.5 in.
Wheelbase
1,507 mm / 59.3 in.
Height
1,450 mm / 57.1 in.
Length
2,207 mm / 86.9 in.
Width
953 mm / 37.5 in.
Fuel Capacity
20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons
Wet Weight
244.0 kg / 537.9 lbs
Fuel Control
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Engine Type
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Displacement (ci)
71.39 cubic inches
Displacement (cc)
1170.00 cc
CO2
115.1 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Bore x Stroke (mm)
101.0 x 73.0 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)
4.0 x 2.9 inches
Engine Detail
Balancer shaft
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection
Compression Ratio
12.5:1
Emissions
Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-4
Engine Lubrication
Dry sump
Fuel Consumption
4.96 litres/100 km (20.2 km/l or 47.42 mpg)
Fuel Reserve
4.00 litres / 1.06 gallons
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Clutch
Oil lubricated clutch, hydraulically operated
Final Drive
Shaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox
6-speed
Primary Drive
Constant mesh
Frame Type
Two-section frame, front- and bolted on rear frame, load-bearing engine
Suspension - Front
BMW Motorrad Telelever
Suspension - Rear
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever
Rake
25.5°
Seat
Single Rallye Seat
Trail
100 mm / 3.9 in.
Wheel Travel - Front
190 mm / 7.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear
200 mm / 7.9 in.
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
12.0 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
305 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
10.9 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
276 mm
Brakes - Front
Double disc. ABS. Floating discs. Four-piston calipers.
Brakes - Rear
Single disc. ABS. Floating disc. Two-piston calipers.
Rims
Cross Spoke Wheels
Tyres - Front
120/70-R19
Tyres - Rear
170/60-R17
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