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2005 BMW R 1200GS Overview
The 2005 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 11.0:1. 2005 BMW R 1200GS delivers 72 kW @ 7000 rpm of peak power and 115 Nm @ 5500 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 213 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2005 R 1200GS tips the scales at 225 kg, carries a 20-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 895 - 915 mm and spans a 1507 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2005 BMW R 1200GS spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2005 R 1200GS - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Strong power output: 2005 BMW R 1200GS makes 72 kW @ 7000 rpm with 115 Nm @ 5500 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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Large fuel range: The 20-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
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Tall seat height: The 895 - 915 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 2005 BMW R 1200GS 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
SOHC 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 225 kg, the R 1200GS 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 1200GS - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2005 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.
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. 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.
2005 BMW R 1200GS - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2005 BMW R 1200GS have?
The 2005 BMW R 1200GS uses a Two cylinder boxer engine with 1170 cc of displacement. It is air/oil cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2005 BMW R 1200GS?
The 2005 BMW R 1200GS has a factory-quoted top speed of 213 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2005 BMW R 1200GS weigh?
The 2005 BMW R 1200GS weighs 225 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2005 BMW R 1200GS make?
The 2005 BMW R 1200GS produces 72 kW @ 7000 rpm of power and 115 Nm @ 5500 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2005 BMW R 1200GS?
The 2005 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 2005 BMW R 1200GS suitable for shorter riders?
The 2005 BMW R 1200GS has a seat height of 895 - 915 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 2005 BMW R 1200GS have?
The 2005 BMW R 1200GS uses 2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston caliper at the front and Single ∅265 mm disc, 2 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2005 BMW R 1200GS use?
The 2005 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 2005 BMW R 1200GS have?
The 2005 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 |
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77 kW / 105 hp @ 7500 rpm |
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7750 rpm |
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7750 rpm |
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- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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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 |
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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. |
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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 |
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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
72 kW / 98 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque
115 Nm / 11.7 kgf-m / 84.8 ft-lbs @ 5500 rpm
Top Speed
213 km/h / 132 mph
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.2 US gal
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Full 2005 BMW R 1200GS Specifications
Year
2005
Make Model
BMW R 1200GS
Seat Height
895 - 915 mm / 35.2 - 36.0 in
Wheelbase
1507 mm / 59.3 in
Height
1450 mm / 57.1 in (excl. mirrors)
Length
2210 mm / 87.0 in
Width
915 mm / 36.0 in (incl. mirrors)
Dry Weight
199 kg / 439 lbs
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.2 US gal
Wet Weight
225 kg / 496 lbs
Stroke
4
Fuel Control
SOHC
Engine Type
Two cylinder boxer
Displacement
1170 cc / 71.4 in.
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management: BMS-K with overrun fuel cut-off, dual ignition
Bore x Stroke
101 x 73 mm
Compression Ratio
11.0:1
Cooling System
Air/oil cooled
Fuel Consumption
5.5 L/100 km / 18.0 km/l / 42.4 US mpg
Fuel Induction
Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management: BMS-K with overrun fuel cut off, dual ignition
Fuel Reserve
4L / 1.1 US gal
Ignition
BMS-K
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Battery Capacity
Battery 12 V / 14 Ah, maintenance-free
Clutch
Single plate dry clutch, ∅180 mm, hydraulically operated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gear Ratios
1st 1.583 / 2nd 1.259 / 3rd 1.033 / 4th 0.903 / 5th 0.903 / 6th 0.805:1
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission / Drive
6 Speed
Frame Type
Tubular space frame, engine load-bearing
Suspension - Front
Telelever, stanchion ∅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
27.1°
Trail
101 mm / 4.0 in
Wheel Travel - Front
190 mm / 7.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear
200 mm / 7.9 in.
Alternator
Alternator three-phase alternator 720 W
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
Brakes - Rear
Single ∅265 mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
110/80 ZR19
Tyres - Rear
150/70 ZR17
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