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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. 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
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Strong power output: 2011 BMW R 1200GS makes 81 kW @ 7750 rpm with 120 Nm @ 6000 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 850 mm - 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 2011 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
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 238 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 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.
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.
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 |
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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, 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.
Fuel Capacity
20 Litres / 5.2 US gal
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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
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
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