2012 BMW G 650 GS Sertão

BMW Motorrad has added what it calls a “new sporting chapter to the history of single cylinders in the BMW GS family” with the release of the G 650 GS Sertão.

Using the competent and well-liked – but relatively unexciting – G 650 GS as the donor bike, the Sertão looks set to be even more go-getting with wire-spoked wheels, longer travel suspension and more ground clearance.

But the 652cc single-cylinder engine remains unchanged, delivering 48hp (35kW) at 6500 rpm and a maximum torque of 60Nm at 5000rpm. Options include output reduction to 34hp (25kW) at 6500rpm and 47Nm at 4500rpm.

The wire-spoked wheels, with light alloy rims, are 21-inch (front) and 17-inch, and the rear wheel is skinnier than the standard GS’s.

And suspension travel is now 210mm at both ends for the Sertão, compared to the 170/165 mix for the GS, which should give it even more trail riding scope.

There are two seat heights – the standard 860mm of special accessory 900mm. Other standard features include a luggage carrier, high windscreen, hand protectors, aluminium engine guard.

Heated hand grips now form part of the special equipment on offer; alongside disengageable ABS, an alarm system and charging socket. Special accessories include a top case, and the colour will be Aero White/Arroyo Blue.

Price is still to be announced, but the bike should be available in the first quarter of 2012.