Bmw R 1250 Gs
The Bmw R 1250 Gs has a top speed of 220 km/h, produces 136 hp and weighs 249 kg. Motoryk rates it 9/10.
The BMW R 1250 GS was introduced in 2019 as the successor to the iconic R 1200 GS, featuring BMW's new ShiftCam variable valve timing technology. It quickly became one of the world's best-selling adventure motorcycles, continuing the GS lineage that dates back to 1980 and cemented the 'GS' as the definitive benchmark in the adventure touring segment. The R 1250 GS is celebrated for its versatility, handling both long-distance touring and off-road capability with equal competence.
136 hp
Power
143 Nm
Torque
249 kg
Weight
220 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18.2 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
ShiftCam Tech Advantage
The R 1250 GS uses BMW's ShiftCam variable valve timing system, delivering both strong low-end torque and top-end power in a single boxer engine — a unique feature in its class.
Strong Resale Value
The R 1250 GS consistently holds 70-80% of its value after two years, making it one of the best-reselling adventure motorcycles on the market.
Watch the Throttle Body
Some owners report throttle body sensor issues and occasional oil leaks around the cylinder head gaskets — inspect service records carefully and ensure these were addressed under warranty.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced ShiftCam variable valve timing engine, 136 hp, replacing R 1200 GS platform.
Updated electronics, new color options, revised suspension settings, Euro 5 compliance maintained.
Significant refresh with new TFT display, updated rider aids, revised ergonomics and styling.
Used Buyer Review
"The adventure benchmark that justifies every penny, used or new."
$11,000-$17,500 usedThe R1250GS is genuinely the benchmark adventure bike, and buying used makes an already compelling package even smarter financially. The ShiftCam engine is transformative — torquey from idle, pulls hard past 7,000rpm, and returns decent fuel economy for 1,254cc. Dynamic ESA and the various riding modes actually work, not marketing fluff. Check service history religiously; the 6,000-mile oil intervals mean neglected examples exist. Inspect the throttle bodies and check for the known alternator bracket crack on early bikes. Used prices remain stubbornly high because demand never drops, but you'll avoid the worst depreciation hit. Triple-check the electronics — a GS with faulty suspension or dead heated grips is an expensive headache. Avoid anything without full dealer history if possible, and budget for consumables: tires eat money fast on a 538lb machine. The riding position suits tall riders brilliantly, average-height riders manage fine, short riders will struggle without lowering kits.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Bmw R 1250 Gs — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALVerify recall completed, test idle smoothness at warmup
Cold start rattle, check service history for early detection
Neutral light behavior, fault codes via diagnostics tool
Clunking under acceleration, inspect spline grease interval
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid but expensive when issues arise
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Bmw R 1250 Gs
Triumph Tiger 1200
Bmw R 1200 Gs
Bmw R 1250 Gs Adventure
Bmw R 1300 Gs
Bmw R 1200 Gsa
Compare Bmw R 1250 Gs Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Bmw R 1250 Gs vs Triumph Tiger 1200
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1250 Gs vs Bmw R 1200 Gs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1250 Gs vs Bmw R 1250 Gs Adventure
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1250 Gs vs Bmw R 1300 Gs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 1250 Gs vs Bmw R 1200 Gsa
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Bmw R 1250 Gs? +
Throttle body recall / surging idle: Verify recall completed, test idle smoothness at warmup (moderate) | Camshaft timing chain wear / rattle: Cold start rattle, check service history for early detection (serious) | Shift drum sensor failure, gear display error: Neutral light behavior, fault codes via diagnostics tool (moderate)
Is the Bmw R 1250 Gs a good motorcycle? +
The adventure benchmark that justifies every penny, used or new. Rating: 9.0/10. Best for: Tall touring riders wanting one bike only. Avoid if: Budget-conscious riders or under 5'8".
What is the horsepower of the Bmw R 1250 Gs? +
The Bmw R 1250 Gs produces 136 hp @ 7,750 rpm, with 143 Nm @ 6,250 rpm of torque. Top speed: 220 km/h.
Is the Bmw R 1250 Gs good for beginners? +
Not really — the Bmw R 1250 Gs is better for experienced riders (136 hp can be intimidating). Tall touring riders wanting one bike only Avoid if: Budget-conscious riders or under 5'8"
Is the Bmw R 1250 Gs reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Bmw R 1250 Gs, notably: Camshaft timing chain wear / rattle (Cold start rattle, check service history for early detection). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Bmw R 1250 Gs good for daily use? +
Tall touring riders wanting one bike only Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approx. 18.2 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Bmw R 1250 Gs? +
The Bmw R 1250 Gs reaches a top speed of 220 km/h, producing 136 hp at 249 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Bmw R 1250 Gs? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Bmw R 1250 Gs, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/bmw/r-1250-gs/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
