Bmw R 1150 Gs
The Bmw R 1150 Gs has a top speed of 200 km/h, produces 85 hp and weighs 229 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.8/10.
The BMW R 1150 GS was introduced in 1999 as the successor to the R 1100 GS, featuring a larger 1130cc air/oil-cooled boxer twin engine and BMW's Telelever/Paralever suspension system. It quickly became one of the most popular adventure touring motorcycles in the world, cementing the GS lineage as a benchmark for the segment. Production ran until 2004, and it gained further fame as a capable long-distance tourer used in numerous around-the-world expeditions.
85 hp
Power
98 Nm
Torque
229 kg
Weight
200 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Watch the Final Drive
The rear final drive (bevel drive) is a known weak point — inspect for oil leaks and listen for whining noises, as rebuilds can cost $500–$1,000+. Always check service history for this specific component.
Proven Engine Longevity
The 1,130cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine is legendary for durability, with many bikes exceeding 100,000 miles when properly maintained. It's considered one of BMW's most reliable powerplants of the era.
Strong Resale Value
The R 1150 GS holds its value well due to its cult adventure-touring status and loyal owner community. Low-mileage, well-maintained examples remain in steady demand even 20+ years after production.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced 1130cc Boxer twin, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear, 70hp, replaced R1100GS
"The adventure bike that actually invented the category."
I've put 40,000 km on one of these across three continents and the R1150GS still earns its reputation the hard way — through sheer competence. The Telelever front end is genuinely weird the first week, then you realize you can brake deep into corners without the forks diving and you never want to go back. That 1130cc boxer kicks out a fat, accessible torque curve that pulls cleanly from 2,000 rpm, which matters enormously when you're loaded with luggage on a sketchy gravel road in Morocco at altitude. The weak points are real though: the gearbox is agricultural, false neutrals between first and second are a rite of passage, the stock seat becomes a medieval torture device past 200 km, and at 229 kg wet it will pin you to the ground if you drop it on a hillside — and you will drop it.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"The original adventure benchmark still earns its reputation today."
$3,500-$7,500 usedThe R1150GS is the adventure bike that invented the template everyone else still copies. Buy one used and you're getting a genuinely capable machine that'll haul you across continents without drama. The 1150 Boxer is a torque monster low down, pulls cleanly from 2,000rpm, and that characteristic cylinder-head-in-your-boots feel never gets old. Oilhead engines are tough as nails if they've been serviced properly — check the valve clearances have been done every 6,000 miles, because neglected ones get noisy fast. The main thing to watch on used examples is the Paralever rear suspension linkage and final drive — they're not cheap to rebuild. Also check the throttle bodies sync properly; flat spots mid-range usually mean they're out. ABS pump failures are common on high-mileage bikes and genuine BMW parts aren't cheap. Wet splines on the driveshaft need regular greasing — most owners forget this entirely. Get a good one though, and you'll have a motorcycle that rewards experienced riders without ever punishing them. It's heavy at 229kg wet, but that weight disappears once you're moving.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Bmw R 1150 Gs — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALClunking on acceleration, check service history for greasing
Rough idle, hesitation between 2000-3000 RPM
ABS warning light on, test brake feel at low speed
Ticking engine noise, ask for maintenance records
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid if maintained, splines are dealbreaker
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Bmw R 1150 Gs
Bmw R 1200 Gs
Bmw R 850 Gs
Suzuki V-strom 1000
Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200
Suzuki Vstrom 1000 Abs
Compare Bmw R 1150 Gs Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Bmw R 1150 Gs vs Bmw R 1200 Gs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1150 Gs vs Bmw R 850 Gs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1150 Gs vs Suzuki V-strom 1000
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1150 Gs vs Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1150 Gs vs Suzuki Vstrom 1000 Abs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Bmw R 1150 Gs Guides
More from Bmw
View all Bmw models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Bmw R 1150 Gs? +
Final drive spline wear/failure: Clunking on acceleration, check service history for greasing (serious) | Throttle body sync and surging: Rough idle, hesitation between 2000-3000 RPM (moderate) | ABS module failure: ABS warning light on, test brake feel at low speed (moderate)
Is the Bmw R 1150 Gs a good motorcycle? +
The original adventure benchmark still earns its reputation today. Rating: 7.8/10. Best for: Experienced tourers wanting analogue adventure bike reliability. Avoid if: You want lightweight, modern electronics, or low maintenance.
What is the horsepower of the Bmw R 1150 Gs? +
The Bmw R 1150 Gs produces 85 hp @ 6,750 rpm, with 98 Nm @ 5,250 rpm of torque. Top speed: 200 km/h.
Is the Bmw R 1150 Gs good for beginners? +
Not really — the Bmw R 1150 Gs is better for experienced riders. Experienced tourers wanting analogue adventure bike reliability Avoid if: You want lightweight, modern electronics, or low maintenance
Is the Bmw R 1150 Gs reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Bmw R 1150 Gs, notably: Final drive spline wear/failure (Clunking on acceleration, check service history for greasing). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Bmw R 1150 Gs good for daily use? +
Experienced tourers wanting analogue adventure bike reliability Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Bmw R 1150 Gs? +
The Bmw R 1150 Gs reaches a top speed of 200 km/h, producing 85 hp at 229 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Bmw R 1150 Gs? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Bmw R 1150 Gs, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/bmw/r-1150-gs/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
