KIWI RIDER SEPTEMBER 2020 VOL1 | Page 71

1999 R1150GS (R1150 GS Adventure from 2001) 1130cc, 85hp, 229kg (dry) Motor now equipped with six-speed gearbox. Refreshed styling. This model was used by Kevin and Julia Sanders in setting the world record for fastest global circumnavigation (in 2002). The Adventure model became famous as the bike used by Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman in their Long Way Round trip. 2004 R1200GS (R1200GS Adventure from 2006) 1170cc, 100hp, 246kg (wet) 199kg (dry) With 15 more horsepower and nearly 30kg less weight, the R1200 was a faster, sportier GS. Less weight by way of being a good deal more plasticky and Can-bus electrical circuitry meant it’s been criticised as the least world-travel adept GS yet. But selling over 100,000 units in its first three years made it easily the most popular – pushing total GS sales over the half-million. Updated, including a significant power-up to 109hp with HP2-Sport type cylinder heads for 2010. 2014 R1200GS-LC (R1200GS-LC Adventure from 2015) 1170cc, 125hp, 238kg (wet) The ‘LC’ is an all-new R1200GS with a down-draught intake, water-cooled motor. Power is up to 125hp and weight is down. Updated Telelever and Paralever systems. LED lights. Full electronic package including traction control, power modes, electronic suspension adjustment and ABS modes. 2019 R1250GS (R1250GS Adventure from 2019) 1254cc, 136hp, 249kg (wet) BMW’s new Shift-Cam motor is a game changer for the boxer engine format. Power is up to a claimed 136hp. Allnew barring the frame. Beautiful TFT screen and electronic riding modes coming out of its wazoo. KIWI RIDER 71