BMW R 1200 GS - 2004 Specifications and Reviews

The 2004 BMW R 1200 GS is a versatile adventure tourer that appeals to both experienced and novice riders seeking capability on and off-road. Its air and oil-cooled boxer engine delivers smooth, reliable power with excellent torque characteristics, making it ideal for long-distance touring and light trail exploration. Known for durability and balanced handling, this bike defines the modern adventure motorcycle category.

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General information

CategoryAllround
Year2004
ModelBMW R 1200 GS
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Fuel controlSOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemInjection
Bore x stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque115.00
Power98.00
Stroke4
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer
Capacity:1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,641 mm (64.6 inches)
Overall width915 mm (36.0 inches)
Overall length2,210 mm (87.0 inches)
Overall height1,430 mm (56.3 inches)
Alternate seat height860 mm (33.9 inches) If adjustable, highest setting.
Seat height840 mm (33.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight199.0 kg (438.7 pounds)

BMW R 1200 GS dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter265 mm (10.4 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter305 mm (12.0 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions150/70-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions110/80-ZR19
Rear suspension travel200 mm (7.9 inches)
Rear suspensionDie-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of handwheel, rebound damping adjustable
Front suspension travel190 mm (7.5 inches)
Front suspensionBMW Motorrad Telelever;stanchion diameter 41 mm, central spring strut, spring pre-load 9-times mechanically adjustable
Frame typeThree-section composite frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine.
 
 

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.4925 HP/kg
Top speed200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)4.50 litres (1.19 gallons)
Reserve fuel capacity4.00 litres (1.06 gallons)
Fuel capacity20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

125 hp
Peak Power
3.6s
0-60 mph
124.3 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track45%
City65%
Cornering78%
Daily Riding78%
Touring94%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits intermediate to experienced riders comfortable with a tall, substantial adventure machine.
PurposeBuilt as a do-it-all adventure tourer, equally capable of long highway hauls, backroad carving, and moderate off-road excursions.
Rider FitIts 850mm seat height and 244kg weight demand a reasonably confident, taller rider, especially when navigating slow-speed maneuvers or uneven terrain.
CharacterA refined, torquey boxer-twin adventure icon that balances long-distance comfort with genuine off-road competence and premium engineering.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for shorter or less experienced riders seeking a light, nimble city commuter or a track-focused sportbike.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2004 BMW R 1200 GS Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 840mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2004 BMW R 1200 GS, with a relaxed knee angle of around 140 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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