BMW preparing to launch R 1250 range

BMW has been preparing to update its top-selling adventure juggernauts, the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure, for some time, and BIkesales can now confirm that more powerful R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure models will join the company’s line-up in 2019.

And in addition to the two adventure bikes, the R 1200 RT will also morph into the R 1250 RT to make it three updated ‘R’ models – and the three current R 1200 GS variants (the Rallye, Rallye X and Tour) which also presumably form part of the new 1250 mix as well.

The R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure and R 1250 RT will all be powered by a 1254cc Boxer engine producing 134hp – an 11hp hike over the current 1170cc version. Peak power will continue to arrive at 7750rpm.

We’re in the dark about peak torque, but we’d expect the current 125Nm mark on the 1170cc Boxers to be left a fair way behind.

While there’s a hike in performance, weight gains also appear to be on the menu for all three models, and our calculations reveal modest power-to-weight increases for the R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT, and a slight drop for the R 1250 GS Adventure.

The wheelbase on all three bikes has also been increased: by as much as 18mm on the R 1250 GS.

When will the new bikes be launched? We’re tipping the Intermot motorcycle show in Cologne from October 3-7 and, if that comes to fruition, the trio will undoubtedly make an appearance at the EICMA show in Milan from November 6-11.

Bikesales understands that local homologation for all three models is already well advanced, but there’s still no official word from BMW Australia on their existence.

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2017 BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Rallye launch review