2009 BMW R 1200GS Specifications

Name: 2009 BMW R 1200GS
Brand: BMW

Enduro / Off-Road • Specs last verified 13 July 2026

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2009 BMW R 1200GS Overview

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 1170 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer engine running SOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.0:1. The bore and stroke measures 101 x 73 mm. 2009 BMW R 1200GS delivers 115 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 2009 R 1200GS tips the scales at 229 kg, carries a 20-litre fuel tank and spans a 1,507 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 59.6 kg heavier than the average enduro / off-road motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2009 BMW R 1200GS spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2009 BMW R 1200GS compared with other bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category

Here is how the 2009 BMW R 1200GS stacks up against other bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1434 models.

Engine displacement of 1170 cc is larger than that of 1353 of the other 1433 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category.
Only 49 of the other 449 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category have a higher top speed than the 200 km/h of the R 1200GS.
With 229 kg, the R 1200GS has the joint 146th heaviest wet weight of 774 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category, 35% above the category average of 169.4 kg.
Narrowing the field to the 492 models within five model years of it, the engine displacement of 1170 cc is larger than that of 466 of the other 491.

Versus the 2008 model

Compared with the 2008 model, top speed fell from 208 km/h to 200 km/h (-8 km/h). Wet weight and displacement are unchanged.

2009 R 1200GS - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Fuel injection: The fuel injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
Strong front braking: The double disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
ABS fitted: Anti-lock braking is standard, adding a real margin of safety on wet roads or in an emergency stop.
Large fuel range: The 20-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Low-maintenance final drive: Shaft final drive means no chain to clean, lube or adjust - meaningfully less routine maintenance than a chain-driven equivalent.

Considerations

Age-related wear: As with any used R 1200GS, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Fuelling & injector care

Fuelling comes from fuel injection. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.

Valve clearance checks

SOHC valve actuation on the R 1200GS means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.

Brake disc and pad wear

The double disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the R 1200GS runs BMW Motorrad Telelever and Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Final drive maintenance

Final drive is by shaft - no chain or belt maintenance at all, though the drive-shaft oil should be changed on the manufacturer's interval.

Frame & chassis check

The frame is Two-section frame consisting of front and rear sections, load- bearing engine-gearbox unit - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.

Handling the weight at a standstill

At 229 kg, the R 1200GS is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.

R 1200GS - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2009 BMW R 1200GS with its 1170 cc enduro / off-road, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs shaft final drive, so ask for proof the shaft-drive gear oil has been changed on schedule - it's easy to overlook since there's no chain to draw attention to it. Now 17 years old, this enduro / off-road is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 1200GS 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 for the R 1200GS's 1170 cc two cylinder boxer. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With a 12.0:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Fuel system care

The R 1200GS'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. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.

2009 BMW R 1200GS - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2009 BMW R 1200GS have?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS uses a Two cylinder boxer engine with 1170 cc of displacement.

What is the top speed of the 2009 BMW R 1200GS?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS 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 2009 BMW R 1200GS weigh?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS weighs 229 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much torque does the 2009 BMW R 1200GS produce?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS produces 115 of torque.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2009 BMW R 1200GS?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS has a 20-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 333-400 km between stops.

What brakes does the 2009 BMW R 1200GS have?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS uses double disc with Optional ABS, can be switched off at the front and single disc with Optional ABS, can be switched off at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2009 BMW R 1200GS use?

The 2009 BMW R 1200GS runs 110/80-19 front and 150/70-17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

BMW R 1200GS Spec Evolution

The BMW R 1200GS was produced across 16 model years (2004-2019). 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	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019
Max Power	72 kW / 98 hp @ 7000 rpm	72 kW / 98 hp @ 7000 rpm	72 kW / 98 hp @ 7000 rpm	72 kW / 98 hp @ 7000 rpm	77 kW / 105 hp @ 7500 rpm	-	77 kW / 105 hp @ 7500 rpm	81 kW / 110 hp @ 7750 rpm	81 kW / 110 hp @ 7750 rpm	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Wet Weight	225 kg / 496 lbs	225 kg / 496 lbs	225 kg / 496 lbs	225 kg / 496 lbs	229 kg / 505 lbs	229.0 kg / 504.9 lbs	229 kg / 505 lbs	238 kg / 525 lbs	238 kg / 525 lbs	238.1 kg / 525.0 lbs	238.0 kg / 524.7 lbs	238.0 kg / 524.7 lbs	238.0 kg / 524.7 lbs	244.0 kg / 537.9 lbs	244.0 kg / 537.9 lbs	244.0 kg / 537.9 lbs
Dry Weight	199 kg / 439 lbs	199 kg / 439 lbs	199 kg / 439 lbs	199 kg / 439 lbs	199 kg / 439 lbs	203 kg / 447.5 lbs	199 kg / 439 lbs	205 kg / 452 lbs	205 kg / 452 lbs	166 kg / 366.0 lbs	-	-	-	-	-	-
Engine Detail	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder	-	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder	Ducati 90 degree L-Twin	-	-	-	-	Balancer shaft	Balancer shaft
Engine Type	Two cylinder boxer	Two cylinder boxer	Twin	Two cylinder boxer	Two cylinder boxer	Two cylinder boxer	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Top Speed	213 km/h / 132 mph	213 km/h / 132 mph	213 km/h / 132 mph	213 km/h / 132 mph	208.4 km/h / 129.5 mph	200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph	208.4 km/h / 129.5 mph	206.8 km/h / 129 mph.	206.8 km/h / 129 mph.	-	-	-	-	-	200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph	200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph
Seat Height	895 - 915 mm / 35.2 - 36.0 in	895 - 915 mm / 35.2 - 36.0 in	895 - 915 mm / 35.2 - 36.0 in	895 - 915 mm / 35.2 - 36.0 in	850 mm - 870 mm / 33.4 in - 34.2 in	-	850 mm - 870 mm / 33.4 in - 34.2 in	850 mm - 870 mm / 33.4 in - 34.2 in	850 mm - 870 mm / 33.4 in - 34.2 in	851 mm / 33.5 in.	850 mm / 33.5 in.	850 mm / 33.5 in.	850 mm / 33.5 in.	850 mm / 33.5 in.	850 mm / 33.5 in.	850 mm / 33.5 in.
Fuel Capacity	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20 Litres / 5.2 US gal	20.06 litres / 5.30 gallons	20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons	20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons	20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons	20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons	20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons	20.00 litres / 5.28 US gallons

Key Specifications

Engine

Two cylinder boxer

Power

Not recorded

Torque

115.00

Top Speed

200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph

Weight

229.0 kg / 504.9 lbs

Fuel Capacity

20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons

Full 2009 BMW R 1200GS Specifications

Colours Slate grey matallic matt, Namibia orange

Wheelbase 1,507 mm / 59.3 in.

Height 1,450 mm / 57.1 in.

Length 2,210 mm / 87.0 in.

Width 23,749 mm / 935.0 in.

Dry Weight 203 kg / 447.5 lbs

Fuel Capacity 20.00 litres / 5.28 gallons

Wet Weight 229.0 kg / 504.9 lbs

Top Speed 200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph

Max Torque 115.00

Power-to-Weight Ratio 0.5086 HP/kg

Bore x Stroke (in,) 4.0 x 2.9 inches

Bore x Stroke (mm) 101.0 x 73.0 mm

Displacement (cc) 1170.00 cc

Displacement (ci) 71.39 cubic inches

Engine Type Two cylinder boxer

Fuel Control SOHC

Stroke 4

Fuel System Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition

Compression Ratio 12.0:1

Exhaust Euro 3

Fuel Reserve 4.00 litres / 1.06 gallons

Starter Electric

Valve System 4

Clutch Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated

Final Drive Shaft drive (cardan)

Gearbox 6-speed

Frame Type Two-section frame consisting of front and rear sections, load- bearing engine-gearbox unit

Suspension - Front BMW Motorrad Telelever

Suspension - Rear Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever

Rake 25.7°

Trail 101 mm / 4.0 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.) 10.4 inches

Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) 265 mm

Brakes - Front Double disc. Optional ABS, can be switched off

Brakes - Rear Single disc. Optional ABS, can be switched off

Tyres - Front 110/80-19

Tyres - Rear 150/70-17

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.