2008 BMW R 1200 GS Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in BMW's enduro - offroad motorcycle lineup, the 2008 BMW R 1200 GS features a 1170 cc (71.4 cu in) oil & air-cooled two cylinder boxer, two-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 103.3 HP (75.4 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 115 Nm (84.8 lb-ft) at 5,750 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 88.3 HP per liter and a 1,750 rpm working window between peak torque (5,750 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the R 1200 GS measures 229 kg (505 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.45 HP/kg (2.22 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,507 mm (59.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 20-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.3 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 465 km (289 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 15 indexed model years from 2004 to 2019, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
88.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.45 HP/kg (2.22 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,750–7,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~465 km (289 mi)
Engine
Displacement1170.0 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwo cylinder boxer, two-stroke
Engine DetailsTwo cylinder boxer, two-stroke
Power103.3 HP (75.4 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque115.0 Nm (11.7 kgf-m or 84.8 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM
Compression12.0:1
Bore x Stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
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.
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.
