![]()
No images available
Tap to enlarge
![]()
2021 BMW R 1250GS Overview
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 1254 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. 2021 BMW R 1250GS delivers 136 hp @ 7750 rpm of peak power and 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm 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 2021 R 1250GS tips the scales at 249 kg, carries a 20-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 850 mm to 870 mm and spans a 1514 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2021 BMW R 1250GS spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2021 R 1250GS - Pros & Cons
Strengths
-
⚡
Strong power output: 2021 BMW R 1250GS makes 136 hp @ 7750 rpm with 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
-
🔧
Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
-
⛽
Large fuel range: The 20-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
-
📏
Tall seat height: The 850 mm to 870 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 2021 BMW R 1250GS 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.
Low-speed confidence
At 249 kg, the R 1250GS is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
R 1250GS - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2021 BMW R 1250GS, 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 1250GS 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 1250GS. 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 1250GS'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 1250GS. 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.
2021 BMW R 1250GS - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2021 BMW R 1250GS have?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS uses a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine with 1254 cc of displacement. It is liquid / air cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2021 BMW R 1250GS?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS 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 2021 BMW R 1250GS weigh?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS weighs 249 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2021 BMW R 1250GS make?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS produces 136 hp @ 7750 rpm of power and 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2021 BMW R 1250GS?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS has a 20-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 333-400 km between stops.
Is the 2021 BMW R 1250GS suitable for shorter riders?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS has a seat height of 850 mm to 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 2021 BMW R 1250GS have?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS uses 2x 305mm floating discs, 4-piston radial brake calipers at the front and Single 276mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2021 BMW R 1250GS use?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS 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.
What gearbox does the 2021 BMW R 1250GS have?
The 2021 BMW R 1250GS is fitted with a Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with helical gearing system transmission.
BMW R 1250GS Spec Evolution
The BMW R 1250GS was produced across 5 model years (2019-2023). 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 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
| Wet Weight |
249 kg / 549 lbs |
249.0 kg / 549.0 lbs |
249 kg / 549 lbs |
249.0 kg / 549.0 lbs |
249.0 kg / 549.0 lbs |
| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Balancer shaft |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead spur gear driven camshafts, a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Balance shaft and variable engine timing system |
Balance shaft and variable engine timing system |
| Top Speed |
201.2 km/h / 125.0 mph |
200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph |
200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph |
193.1 km/h / 120.0 mph |
199.6 km/h / 124.0 mph |
| Seat Height |
850 mm to 870 mm / 33.5 in to 34.3 in 800 mm to 900 mm / 31.5 in to 35.4 in - Optional |
850 mm / 33.5 in. |
850 mm to 870 mm / 33.5 in to 34.3 in 800 mm to 820 mm / 31.5 in to 32.3 in - Optional |
850 mm / 33.5 in. |
850 mm / 33.5 in. |
| Fuel Capacity |
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal |
20.00 litres / 5.28 US gallons |
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal |
19.68 litres / 5.20 US gallons |
19.68 litres / 5.20 US gallons |
| Comments |
Windscreen. |
- |
- |
3 Ride Modes (ECO, Rain and Road). Traction Control. |
3 Ride Modes (ECO, Rain and Road). Traction Control. Hill Start Control. USB charging. |
| CO2 |
109.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
110.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
110.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
110.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
110.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Frame Type |
Two-section frame concept consisting of main frame with bolt-on rear frame, load-bearing engine |
Two-section frame, front- and bolted on rear frame, load-bearing engine |
Two-section frame concept consisting of main frame with bolt-on rear frame, load-bearing engine |
Two-section frame, front- and bolted on rear frame, load-bearing engine |
Two-section frame, front- and bolted on rear frame, load-bearing engine |
Key Specifications
Engine
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power
136 hp / 100 kW @ 7750 rpm
Torque
143 Nm / 105.4 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm
Top Speed
200.0 km/h / 124.3 mph
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal
Advertisement
Full 2021 BMW R 1250GS Specifications
Year
2021
Colours
Black/Grey, Grey/White, White/Red/Blue, Black/Yellow
Make Model
BMW R 1250GS
Warranty
3 years
Seat Heigth -Alternate (mm)
870 mm
Seat Heigth -Alternate (in.)
34.3 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)
185 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)
7.3 inches
Seat Height
850 mm to 870 mm / 33.5 in to 34.3 in 800 mm to 820 mm / 31.5 in to 32.3 in - Optional
Wheelbase
1514 mm / 60 in
Height
1430 mm / 56.3 in
Length
2207 mm / 86.9 in
Width
952.5 mm / 37.5 in
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.3 US gal
Max Load
465 kg / 1025 lbs
Wet Weight
249 kg / 549 lbs
Fuel Control
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Engine Type
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
CO2
110.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Displacement
1254 cc / 76.5 cu-in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead spur gear driven camshafts, a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic intake manifold injection
Bore x Stroke
102.5 x 76 mm
Compression Ratio
12.5:1
Cooling System
Liquid / Air cooled
Emissions
Regulated three-way catalytic converter, compliant with EU5 emission standard
Engine Lubrication
Dry sump
Engine Management
BMS-O
Fuel Consumption
4.75 litres/100 km (21.1 km/l or 49.52 mpg)
Fuel Induction
Electronic intake pipe injection, 52mm Ø throttle valve
Fuel Reserve
4.00 litres / 1.06 US gallons
Fuel Type
Unleaded super, octane number 95 (RON)
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Battery Capacity
12 V / 11.8 Ah, maintenance-free
Clutch
Wet clutch with anti-hopping function, hydraulically activated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gear Ratios
1st (2.438) 2nd 1.714 3rd. 1.296 4th 1.059 5th 0.943 6th 0.848
Gearbox
6-speed
Primary Drive
Constant mesh
Primary Drive Ratios
1.650
Secondary Drive Ratio
1.061
Transmission / Drive
Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with helical gearing system
Frame Type
Two-section frame concept consisting of main frame with bolt-on rear frame, load-bearing engine
Suspension - Front
BMW Motorrad 37mm Telelever, central spring strut
Suspension - Rear
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel
Rake
25.5°
Steering Angle
64.3°
Trail
100.6 mm / 4.0 in
Wheel Travel - Front
190 mm / 7.4 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
200 mm / 7.8 in
Brakes - Front
2x 305mm floating discs, 4-piston radial brake calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single 276mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper
ABS
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro (part-integral, slant-layer-optimized)
Rims
Cast aluminium
Tyres - Front
120/70 R19
Tyres - Rear
170/60 R17
Wheels
Cast aluminium wheels
Wheels - Front
3.00 x 19″
Wheels - Rear
4.50 x 17″
Advertisement