BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Triple Black - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Triple Black is a premium adventure touring motorcycle designed for experienced riders seeking long-distance capability and off-road versatility. Known for its robust boxer engine, advanced suspension, and legendary reliability, it excels on both paved highways and challenging terrain. The adjustable seat height and optional ABS make it accessible while maintaining the rugged character that defines the GS lineage.
General information | |
| Category | Enduro / offroad |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | BMW R 1200 GS Adventure Triple Black |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Complete stainless steel exhaust system |
| Emission details | Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter |
| Greenhouse gases | 106.7 CO |
| Fuel consumption | 4.60 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.13 mpg) |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Oil & air |
| Lubrication system | Dry sump |
| Fuel control | DOHC |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition |
| Bore x stroke | 101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches) |
| Compression | 12.0:1 |
| Torque | 120.00 Nm (12.2 kgf-m or 88.5 ft.lbs) @ 6000 |
| Power | 48.00 |
| Engine details | Rradially aligned valves |
| Engine type | Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 265 mm (10.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Optional integral ABS. Can be switched off. |
| Front brakes diameter | 305 mm (12.0 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Optional integral ABS. Can be switched off. |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/70-R17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 110/80-R19 |
| Rear suspension travel | 220 mm (8.7 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever |
| Front suspension travel | 210 mm (8.3 inches) |
| Front suspension | BMW Motorrad Telelever |
| Trail | 89 mm (3.5 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 24.8° |
| Frame type | Two-section frame consisting of front and rear sections, load- bearing engine-gearbox unit |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 4.00 litres (1.06 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,510 mm (59.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,240 mm (88.2 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,525 mm (60.0 inches) |
| Seat height | 890 mm (35.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.2152 HP/kg |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 256.0 kg (564.4 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 223.0 kg (491.6 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Black |
| Seat | Two section dual seat with variable height riders seat |
| Electrical | 12 V / 14 Ah, maintenance-free battery. |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | Note: the listed power figure of 48 hp seems unusually low for the R 1200 GS Adventure boxer engine (typically around 110 hp), so this profile leans on general big-adventure-bike knowledge rather than that specific number; best suited to riders with at le |
| Purpose | Built as a long-range, go-anywhere adventure tourer that combines serious off-road capability with the comfort needed for continent-crossing journeys. |
| Rider Fit | Its tall 890mm seat height and 256kg wet weight demand a taller, physically confident rider, especially when maneuvering at low speed or off-road. |
| Character | A rugged, torque-driven boxer-twin character with shaft drive smoothness and a purposeful, expedition-ready demeanor rather than outright sportiness. |
| Not Ideal For | Not the right choice for shorter or less experienced riders, or anyone wanting a light, flickable machine for tight city streets or track days. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
⚠ Safety Recalls (2)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles. The fuel pump, and auxiliary fuel pump in certain models, may crack and leak fuel during vehicle operation.
Risk: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain accessory turn signals manufactured for 2006-2017 R1200GS, 2007-2008 and 2010-2017 R1200GS Adventure, 2017 F700GS and F800GS, 2013-2017 F800GT, 2015-2016 F800R, 2014-2017 F800GS Adventure, 2014-2016 S1000R, 2015-2017 R1200R, 2016-2017 R1200RS, and 2010-2017 S1000RR motorcycles. As designed, these accessory turn signals may be insufficiently visible to other drivers, and, as such, fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: If other drivers cannot easily see the turn signals, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the turn signals, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →
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