2011 BMW R 1200GS Specifications

Name: 2011 BMW R 1200GS
Brand: BMW

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

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2011 BMW R 1200GS Overview

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 1170 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine running DOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.0:1. 2011 BMW R 1200GS delivers 81 kW @ 7750 rpm of peak power and 120 Nm @ 6000 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 206.8 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2011 R 1200GS tips the scales at 238 kg, carries a 20-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 850 mm - 870 mm and spans a 1507 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 40 kg heavier than the average enduro / off-road motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2011 BMW R 1200GS spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2011 R 1200GS - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Strong power output: 2011 BMW R 1200GS makes 81 kW @ 7750 rpm with 120 Nm @ 6000 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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

Tall seat height: The 850 mm - 870 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Heat management in traffic

R 1200GS's air-cooled design means engine-bay temperatures build up more in stop-start traffic than on a liquid-cooled equivalent - a function of the cooling method itself, not a defect. Mesh riding gear and avoiding prolonged idling help in hot climates.

Valve clearance checks

DOHC 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 2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston caliper. Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS 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 Telelever, stanchion diameter ∅41mm, central spring strut, spring preload 9 times mechanically adjustable and Die-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever, WAD strut 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 Tubular steel frame, load-bearing power 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 238 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 2011 BMW R 1200GS, 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 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. 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.

Carburetor upkeep

Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the R 1200GS has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.

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.

2011 BMW R 1200GS - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2011 BMW R 1200GS have?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS uses a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine with 1170 cc of displacement. It is air/oil cooled.

What is the top speed of the 2011 BMW R 1200GS?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS has a factory-quoted top speed of 206.8 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.

How much does the 2011 BMW R 1200GS weigh?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS weighs 238 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much power does the 2011 BMW R 1200GS make?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS produces 81 kW @ 7750 rpm of power and 120 Nm @ 6000 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2011 BMW R 1200GS?

The 2011 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.

Is the 2011 BMW R 1200GS suitable for shorter riders?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS has a seat height of 850 mm - 870 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 2011 BMW R 1200GS have?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS uses 2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston caliper. Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS at the front and Single ∅265mm disc 2 piston caliper. Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2011 BMW R 1200GS use?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS runs 110/80 ZR19 front and 150/70 ZR17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

What gearbox does the 2011 BMW R 1200GS have?

The 2011 BMW R 1200GS is fitted with a 6 Speed transmission.

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, two-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke	Two cylinder boxer, two-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, four-stroke

Power

81 kW / 110 hp @ 7750 rpm

Torque

120 Nm / 12.2 kgf-m / 88 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm

Top Speed

206.8 km/h / 129 mph.

Weight

238 kg / 525 lbs

Fuel Capacity

20 Litres / 5.2 US gal

Full 2011 BMW R 1200GS Specifications

Comments Power Steering

Year 2011

Colours White, red, black, gray

Make Model BMW R 1200GS

Storage Front Rack Capacity 100 lbs / 45.4 kg. Rear Rack Capacity 50 lbs / 22.7 kg. Towing Capacity 1,050 lbs / 476.3 kg

Ground Clearance (mm) 1,278 mm

Ground Clearance (in.) 50.3 inches

Seat Height 850 mm - 870 mm / 33.4 in - 34.2 in

Wheelbase 1507 mm / 59.3 in

Height 1450 mm / 57.1 in

Length 2210 mm / 87.0 in

Width 953 mm / 37.5 in

Dry Weight 205 kg / 452 lbs

Fuel Capacity 20 Litres / 5.2 US gal

Wet Weight 238 kg / 525 lbs

Top Speed 206.8 km/h / 129 mph.

Acceleration (0-100 km/h) 4.4 sec

Max Power 81 kW / 110 hp @ 7750 rpm

Max Torque 120 Nm / 12.2 kgf-m / 88 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm

Power-to-Weight Ratio 0.5351 HP/kg

Standing Start 0-1000 m 23.4 sec / 203.3 km/h / 126.3 mph

Standing Start 0-140 km/h 7.9 sec

Standing Start 0-200 km/h 19.6 sec

Standing Start ¼ Mile 12.3 sec / 186.5 km/h / 115.9 mph

Fuel Control DOHC

Engine Type Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke

CO2 99.8 CO

Displacement 1170 cc / 71.4 cub in.

Engine Detail Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

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

Bore x Stroke 101 x 73 mm

Compression Ratio 12.0:1

Cooling System Air/oil cooled

Emissions Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3

Engine Lubrication Dry sump

Exhaust Fully-controlled three-way catalytic converter

Fuel Consumption 4.30 litres/100 km (23.3 km/l or 54.70 mpg)

Fuel Induction BMS-K+, ∅50mm throttle butterfly

Fuel Reserve 4L / 1.1 US gal

Ignition BMS-K

Starter Electric

Valve System 4

Clutch Single-plate dry clutch, ∅180mm

Final Drive Shaft

Gear Ratios 1st 2.375 / 2nd 1.696 / 3rd 1.296 / 4th 0.065 / 5th 0.939 / 6th 0.848:1

Gearbox 6-speed

Primary Drive Automatic CVT with EBS, Hi/Lo Range and Reverse. 2/4 WD + Diff Lock

Transmission / Drive 6 Speed

Frame Type Tubular steel frame, load-bearing power unit

Suspension - Front Telelever, stanchion diameter ∅41mm, central spring strut, spring preload 9 times mechanically adjustable

Suspension - Rear Die-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever, WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of handwheel, rebound damping adjustable.

Rake 25.7°

Seat Removable Passenger Seat and Optional 3-in-1 Versatility

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 2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston caliper. Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS

Brakes - Rear Single ∅265mm disc 2 piston caliper. Optional: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS

Rims Cast aluminium

Tyres - Front 110/80 ZR19

Tyres - Rear 150/70 ZR17

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