2012 BMW R 1200 GS Rallye Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around BMW's enduro - offroad motorcycle platform, the 2012 BMW R 1200 GS Rallye pairs a 1170 cc (71.4 cu in) oil & air-cooled two cylinder boxer, two-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 48 HP (35 kW) at 7,750 rpm while maximum torque reaches 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 41 HP per liter and a 1,750 rpm working window between peak torque (6,000 rpm) and peak power (7,750 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the R 1200 GS Rallye measures 256 kg (564 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.33 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 890 mm (35 in) seat height — reflecting a long-travel chassis stance that favors ground clearance and off-pavement control, combined with a 1,510 mm (59.4 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 20-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.6 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 435 km (270 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2012 to 2018, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
41 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.19 HP/kg (5.33 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,000–7,750 rpm
Theoretical Range
~435 km (270 mi)
Engine
Displacement1170.0 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwo cylinder boxer, two-stroke
Engine DetailsTwo cylinder boxer, two-stroke
Power48.0 HP (35.0 kW)) @ 7750 RPM
Torque120.0 Nm (12.2 kgf-m or 88.5 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Compression12.0:1
Bore x Stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
