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MY 2018 R 1200 GS / R 1200 GS Adventure (arriving September 2017) Options The long-awaited Connectivity (with TFT display) option will be available beginning with September production, providing quick and clear information to riders with the least possible distraction from the road: $600 MSRP includes On-Board Computer (a $150 value) $450 MSRP for when ordered with the Premium Package (which already includes On-Board Computer) 6.5” TFT display with a wide range of settings, information and features Ability to pair the bike with a smartphone and operate functions via the Multi-Controller. Requires a Bluetooth headset (e.g. the BMW Motorrad Communication System). Additional functions: o Phone calls and music playback (no app required) o In conjunction with the free ‘BMW Motorrad Connected App’: -- Basic Navigation with turn-by-turn arrow display -- Vehicle status -- Ability to record routes and display ride statistics and information For further details on Connectivity optional equipment from BMW Motorrad, visit: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0272424EN/bmw-motorrad-presents-connectivity-optional-equipment-multifunctional-instrument-cluster-with-6-5-inch-full-colour-tft-display-offering-a-wide-range-of-features

WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – February 13, 2017 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – BMW Motorrad USA has announced pricing and equipment updates for select 2017 models, including the next two Heritage motorcycles arriving at BMW Motorrad dealerships nationwide. 2017 BMW R 1200 GS Model Update / GS Adventure Price Change In conjunction with the product enhancements coming with the model update, the R 1200 GS base price increases by $200 (from $16,495 to $16,695 MSRP). The MSRP of the R 1200 GS Adventure, will increase by $200 as well (from $18,695 to $18,895 MSRP). 2017 BMW R 1200 GS Model Updates In showrooms March 2017. Standard Features Updated design/front panels New/Enhanced Packages Keyless Ride has been added to the Touring Package, which is also included in the Premium Package. Both packages increase by $250, with the price of the Touring Package increasing from $1,445 to $1,695 MSRP and the Premium Package increasing from $2,950 to $3,200 MSRP. Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Start Control, and Dynamic Pro Mode (a configurable ‘user’ mode) have been added to Ride Modes Pro, which is included in The Technology Package and The Premium Package. There are no package price increases associated with these enhancements. Style 1 (Rally) package ($600 MSRP) is now available with new color Lupin Blue Metallic. This off-road oriented package comes with a Cordoba Blue frame, gold calipers, Cross Spoke Wheels, Black Powertrain, Sport Windshield, bi- color rally seat and removes the center stand. To keep the center stand, standard windshield, and standard seat (for more passenger comfort) there is a passenger kit available. (Exclusive) package ($350 MSRP) is now available with new color Espresso Metallic. This package comes with an Achat Grey frame, gold calipers, and Black Powertrain. New/Enhanced Factory Options High Comfort Seat ($50 MSRP) Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) ($950 MSRP) has been enhanced with the latest generation technology including an automatic ride-height adjustment and automatic damper settings. The price remains the same. Extra High Rally Seat ($50 MSRP). Only available with Style 1 (Rally) package and only if Passenger Kit is not ordered. Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Start Control, and Dynamic Pro Mode (a configurable ‘user’ mode) have been added to Ride Modes Pro. As a result, the price has increased $50, from $400 to $450 MSRP. Passenger Kit ($225 MSRP). Adds center stand, standard windshield, and standard seat (for more passenger comfort) when Style 1 (Rally) package is ordered. Sport Suspension ($300 MSRP). Only available with Style 1 (Rally) package and Dynamic ESA. Not available with Low Suspension. Sport Windshield – Only available within Style 1 (Rally) package Off-Road Tires – Only available within Style 1 (Rally) package Comfort Seat ($50 MSRP) Colors All existing colors and Special Model Triple Black have been replaced by the following colors and style packages: Light White ($0) Lupin Blue Metallic (only available with Style 1 (Rally) package: $600 MSRP) Black Storm Metallic ($100 MSRP) Espresso Metallic (only available with Style 2 (Exclusive) package: $350 MSRP)

Sunday morning at 0800 I met up with my old friend in Santa Rosa, CA. We took off toward Walnut creek where Arwi Odense lives. Had a rear tire tube blowout and we were delayed for 1 - 2 hours while I ran to a local cyclegear to replace the tube. We would usually fix it ourselves but none of us brought tubes and the stem broke away from the tube. Finally arrived at Carnegie around 1300 and spent a solid 4-5 hours just messing around. The dirt was perfect and our tires were hooking up good! Some spots that were blocked from the sun were muddy but not bad. If your looking for a challenge and endless hill climbs, take a trip over to Carnegie OHV park! I'll post pictures once Arwi and my friend text me back. Carnegie Ride Video

The solution for carrying more cargo on BMW adventure bikes Sandpoint, ID, December 18, 2015 - Black Dog Cycle Works (BDCW) announces their new BDCW Pillion Rack for BMW R1200GS and GSA Liquid-Cooled motorcycles. For solo adventure riders, a great solution for carrying more cargo is to replace the passenger seat with an integrated rack. BDCW's new rack puts the additional weight immediately behind the rider where motorcycles were originally designed to carry it, making it the ideal location. By moving the weight forward from the rear of the bike, riders should expect greatly improved balance and control. The BDCW Pillion Rack is a highly functional, rugged yet beautifully-machined product that greatly increases the carrying capacity of the Big GS. And, it works especially well with the BDCW Multi-Function Rear Rack for the GSLC or GSA-LC, but is compatible with most rear racks from other manufacturers, as well as the factory grab rails on the standard GS and GSA. Avid adventure riders will appreciate how the BDCW Pillion Rack mounts to their bikes. "Unlike other versions on the market, we intentionally engineered our rack so that it doesn't use the mostly plastic stock keyed release system. We found that the stock release doesn't take to the off-road punishment many of our customers give their bikes. Ours bolts directly to the frame." says Kurt Forgét of BDCW. The BDCW design has several notably unique features and benefits: A great compliment for the BDCW Multi-Function Rear Rack for either the GS-LC or GSA-LC Made of industrial grade gauge 1/4" aluminum Bolts to the frame for solid mounting-designed to take a beating while securely hauling gear Quick and easy removal with four bolts to replace the passenger seat Generous-sized perimeter holes give multiple tie-down points for gear Compatible with the factory grab rails for both the standard GS and the GSA. Anodized hard black for a durable finish Spacers and stainless steel hardware provided Approximately 12" wide x 14" long Designed, tested and manufactured in the U.S.A. MSRP: $195.00

Cornish, ME (October 21, 2015) -- Adventure motorcycling is exploding, and for a big chunk of ADV riders, BMW's best-selling R1200GS is the perfect globe-trotting tool, except that it comes with a handlebar only Gumby could love. Coming to the rescue is HeliBars' new Horizon Rebel AT Multi-Axis Adjustable Handlebar Kit, just released for 2014-2016 BMW R1200GS and GS Adventure motorcycles. These uber-versatile bars adjust the big enduro's ergos in any of three planes to dial in a more controlled ride on that beastliest of Beemer adventure machines. This Horizon setup allows a highly customizable seating posture that dramatically boosts both long-distance and around-town comfort, with the taller bars making for lower-effort maneuvers in tight confines. The Rebel AT's patented, three-axis-adjustable design strikes at the heart of the GS's ergonomic quirks, which many pilots cite as the too-low and -wide stock handlebar shape. These innovative HeliBars allow wrist angle to be adjusted both forward and back -- over a generous, 7-inch range -- as well as up and down, enabling a more upright riding position, so riders are in better command of their sometimes unwieldy Bavarian Boxer. Adventurers will immediately find that optimal wrist angle in gnarly terrain or a Starbucks parking lot makes for less stress and smoother weight transfer. The Horizon bars' 30-inch width is 3 inches slimmer than the stocker, allowing pilots to make super-tight turns on the road less traveled - all the way to the steering stops -- without having to reposition themselves, which can be a real boon at low speed. As for added leverage -- which everyone craves on a 525-pound, 55-inch tall motorcycle -- the Rebel bars offer it in spades, thanks to their width and a more rearward positioning. What's more, the big Beemer's levers and controls can be adjusted in mere minutes for challenging off-road conditions, then re-tweaked when hitting the pavement. With custom adjustability like that, GS riders can make the next state line before lunch in comfort. Made from high strength tubing, investment cast alloy steel and solid, 6061 billet aluminum, the rigid, flex-free design helps riders better decipher the nuances of front-end feedback. Engineered to fit ABS and non-ABS models, the HeliBars are bolted on with high-quality Allen-head hardware. The burly risers match the grand-touring machine's stout, rugged look and require no modifications to install. What's more, they're kit is engineered to accept all factory electrical components and retain the stock hydraulic lines to minimize complexity. Engineered, tested and manufactured in Cornish, Maine, the Horizon Multi-Axis Adjustable Handlebars, and all HeliBars products, are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee via Heli's 30-day return policy and come with a one-year warranty. Please visit HeliBars.com for more information about HeliBars' innovative product line or call 800-859-4642. Additional company-related news is available on its Facebook page and YouTube channel. Defining Features Direct stock replacement Fits ABS- and non-ABS-equipped bikes No modifications necessary for installation Position-adjustable up and down, forward and backward, inward and outward Independent wrist height and reach adjustability for ultimate rider fit and comfort Allow brake and clutch lever angles to be adjusted in minutes Taller and more rearset than stock and other aftermarket handlebars Minimized wrist, shoulder, neck or back pain caused by extending beyond the comfort zone 30-inch width allows full turns to the steering stops Improved leverage and handling, especially at lower speeds Rigid, flex-free design and high-quality construction 100% satisfaction guarantee via a 30-day return policy One year warranty Engineered, tested and manufactured in Cornish, Maine Retail Price: $595.00 More images Press release distributed by PowersportsPressRelease on behalf of Heli Modified

Hey everyone, I'm Harley from North Carolina. I come from the Harley Davidson world and really want to get into adventure riding. Currently I am looking at a 2007 R1200GS with 29,000 miles. The asking price for the bike is roughly around $9,000. What does everyone think? Is it a smart buy? And any other advice everyone is willing to give. Thanks, Harley

WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 27, 2015 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – RECALL Subject: Rear Wheel Mounting Flange may Crack Report Receipt Date: MAR 11, 2015 NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V141000 Component(s): WHEELS Potential Number of Units Affected: 43,426 All Products Associated with this Recall Vehicle Make HP2 ENDURO 2006 HP2 MEGAMOTO 2008-2009 HP2 SPORT 2008-2010 K 1200 GT 2006-2008 K 1200 R 2006-2008 K 1200 R SPORT 2007 K 1200 S 2005-2008 K 1300 GT 2009-2010 K 1300 R 2010-2011 K 1300 S 2009-2011 R 1200 GS 2005-2010 R 1200 GS ADVENTURE 2006-2010 R 1200 R 2007-2010 R 1200 RT 2005-2010 R 1200 S 2007 R 1200 ST 2005-2007 Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC SUMMARY: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 R1200GS and R1200RT, 2006-2010 R1200GS Adventure, 2007-2010 R1200R, 2007 R1200S and K1200R Sport, 2005-2007 R1200ST, 2008-2009 HP2 Megamoto, 2006 HP2 Enduro, 2008-2010 HP2 Sport, 2005-2008 K1200S, 2006-2008 K1200R, K1200GT, 2009-2011 K1300S, 2010-2011 K1300R, and 2009-2010 K1300GT motorcycles. In the affected motorcycles, the rear wheel mounting flange may crack if the rear wheel mounting bolts are overtightened. CONSEQUENCE: If the rear wheel mounting flange cracks, the mounting bolts may loosen and the rear wheel may not remain secured to the motorcycle, causing a loss of stability and increasing the risk of a crash. REMEDY: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing aluminum rear wheel flange with a steel one, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 21, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. NOTES: Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

This should apply to the GS as well and to all the oilhead models. No pics (yet) but I am happy to report no bloody knuckles. I got one minor scratch on my right middle finger. For anyone looking to change their front shock (rear is pretty easy), here's how to do it... First you want to remove your lower engine guards. This can be a challenge for some because the top fasteners tend to be hard to get to and loosen without stripping. Then you wan to remove the alternator belt cover. Why? Because it gets in the way of pulling out the shock and putting the new one in later. Next you want to remove a screw holding the front brake line on the right side of the bike. If you don't do this then you won't have slack to droop the front suspension low enough to get the shock out. It's tight in there and I found an L-shaped torx from my tool kit was the best solution. You have to somehow jack the bike up from the skid plate but with the rear still on the ground. I was able to lift it (with a friend) on top of my pannier, but a floor jack is probably ideal and safer. I also secured the bike with a strap from the middle of the handlebars to a hook firmly screwed into a beam in the roof of my garage. Then remove the top tank panel, as well as the two side panels and gas cap (four black screws). I put a rag in the tank opening so those screws holding the gas cap on don't accidentally fall in. Leave the front screws on the side plastic pieces secure; just take off the other two. These are just metal panels; it's really not that hard. Remember the longer screws go in that middle hole of the side plastic pieces. The rest should be roughly the same length. At this point you should be able to put a socket on the top bolt of the shock and take that top nut off. If you have a nifty ratcheting box-end wrench then you may be able to get away with not removing the top tank panel. It might be 15mm or 17 mm or in my case 11/16ths". Not a lot of room to work with. Keep the top bushing/spacer and remember to put it back on top of the new shock later. Remove the lower shock bolt from the right side. At this point, the shock should fall out of the top bracket and come loose from the lower mount. If it doesn't come loose from the lower mount, you can knock it back with a rubber mallet or something until it comes free. Also be sure to keep the rubber bushings and/or spacer that goes on top of the shock but below the top bracket. Then simply put the new shock in but make sure you put the top rubber washer below the bracket back on the new shock. Put the top end in first, then you can slide it forward and down into the lower shock mount. Tighten down the lower shock bolt to 30 ft/lbs/40 Nm and some blue loctite. At this point you can lower your bike back to the floor and on its center stand. Make sure the top of the shock is properly seated through the hole in the bracket. Place that other rubber washer you removed from your other shock on top and then secure with the top nut. I put a bit of blue loctite on it. Tighten down to 25 ft/lbs/34 Nm. Ah, but the shock turns when you try to tighten it! At first I tried a strap wrench but it wasn't really gripping. I finally found the crescent wrench from my tool bag (or 19mm open end wrench) would fit on the very top nut below the top bracket and prevent the shock from turning when you're tightening it. Yes, you will need the assistance of a buddy (two man job). Then you can put the alternator cover back on (not a bad time to consider changing your belt if it's been on there for more than 24K miles), as well as re-secure the front brake line on the right side. Then put your lower engine bars back on. That also can be a challenge and take two sets of hands and maybe some straps to pull the upper bars into alignment so you can attach them to the lower bars.

It all started in June of ’14. I found out I had a few days of vacation to use or lose at work, and at the last minute (3 days before departure) I decided to take a few days off and do a ride from Salt Lake City up through Yellowstone National park to Montana, and then back down through Idaho and back to Salt Lake. I called one of my riding buddies, he jumped on his Harley, and off we went. A motley pair - Me on my Tenere, and him on his Harley. There was no plan. It was ride, find a place to camp, ride, repeat. On day 1 we rode from Salt Lake up past Jackson Hole Wyoming with plans to camp in an ‘un-reserveable’ campground right outside the South entrance of Yellowstone. Well, as things sometimes go we found the un-reserveable campground not only full but half reserved. We rode around the loop of the campground once, and then started to ride the loop again just in case we’d missed something. As we rounded a corner on the second circuit of the campground this crazy German guy in a Touratech riding suit came bounding out of the bushes holding up his hand for us to stop. We did, and he began to inform us that the campground was full, but we we’re welcome to share his campspot with him and his wife! What luck! We quickly agreed, and thus a long-standing friendship was born with Claudia and Mirko of http://www.2ar.eu. 2 Adventure riders on the ride of their lives through the Americas on a charity Mission. We ended up spending the next few days with them as we explored Yellowstone, but I won’t get into that in this account. It was decided in those days that we would meet again in the Fall as they made their way back South from Canada to central America - we’d meet back up in Salt Lake City and do a tour of Southern Utah! Throughout the rest of the Summer I planned the Southern Utah Tour, figured out the routes we would take, and in early October Claudia and Mirko showed up with John Colyer of https://www.facebook.com/anomalyadv in tow. We spent a week in Salt Lake getting everybody ready, and then off we went - South for a planned 9 day tour of 6 National Parks - Zion, Bryce, Escalante, Capital Reef, Arches, And Canyonlands (Moab). It turned into 10 days however, as it got really windy on the day we we’re supposed to ride back to Salt Lake from Moab, and we all felt that was a good enough excuse to extend the trip another day! Hahaha. I won’t bore you with a long-winded account of the trip. That’s what video is for! Here’s a rather long, 15 minute account of the trip. Obviously you can’t fit 10 days of fun and adventure into a 15 minute video, but this was the best I could do! Enjoy! Oh, and if anyone wants to enjoy this route themselves HIT ME UP!!!! I’d be more than happy to do it again with a group, and I won’t even charge a tour-guide fee! Or, if you're interested, I can provide some links/coordinates of camping and trails along the route.