BMW R 1250 GS — Top Speed 235 km/h (146 mph)

Is the BMW R 1250 GS a good buy? Quick answer

The BMW R 1250 GS has a listed top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph) with 136 hp, 143 Nm torque, 1000cc+ engine, 216 kg curb weight. It sits in the Adventure segment and is better matched to experienced sport riders than absolute beginners. Compare rivals side-by-side using the tools on this page.

Feature Value
Brand BMW
Model BMW R 1250 GS
Engine size Above 1000cc
Power 136 hp
Torque 143 Nm
Cylinder / Valve Double Cylinder, 8 valves
Weight 216 kg (476 lb)
Front Brake Dual disc brakes, floating brake discs, 305 mm diameter, 4-piston radial calipers
Rear Brake Single disc brake, 276 mm diameter, dual-piston floating caliper.
Seat Height 85 cm (33.5 in)
Front Tyre 120/70 R 19
Rear Tyre 170/60 R 17
Cooling Liquid Cooled
Front Suspension BMW Motorrad Telelever, support diameter 37 mm, central spring linkage
Rear Suspension Cast aluminum single-sided swingarm, BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD support shock absorber (riding shock absorber), hydraulic preload adjustment with handwheel (continuously variable), adjustable rebound
Motorcycle Type Adventure
Top Speed 235 km/h (146 mph)
Fuel Capacity 24 L (6.3 US gal)
Fuel Consumption 5.2 L/100 km (45.2 mpg US)
Prevalence of Service Network
Service Quality
Spare Parts Availability
Price $15,000
For Other Motorcycle Price Lists Click for BMW Price List

Spec-based reading of the BMW R 1250 GS as a Adventure: focus on the numbers that match how you ride — power, weight, seat height, and fuel range — then verify with a dealer test ride.

Pros

  • Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management

Cons

  • Heavy curb weight (~216 kg / 476 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care
  • Tall seat (~850 mm / 33.5 in) — shorter riders should test fit

Who is it for?

Best suited for adventure and dual-purpose riders.

Who is it not for?

Less ideal for very short riders who need both feet flat at stops, brand-new riders looking for a first motorcycle.

Commuting / city use

As an adventure motorcycle, expect a mix of road touring ability and light off-road capability.

Highway / longer rides

Range and rider comfort usually matter more here than pure track pace.

Good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 1250 GS a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Seat height & rider fit

Seat height is about 850 mm (33.5 in). Shorter riders should sit on the bike before deciding.

Fuel economy & range

Listed fuel use is about 5.2 L/100 km (~45.2 mpg US). With a ~24 L tank, theoretical range is around 462 km (real-world range varies).

Two-up riding

Two-up comfort depends on seat length, passenger pegs, and load capacity — check fit with a passenger before long trips.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Our specification data lists 235 km/h (146 mph) for the BMW R 1250 GS.

How much horsepower does the BMW R 1250 GS have?

Listed power is 136 hp.

How much torque does the BMW R 1250 GS have?

Listed torque is 143 Nm.

What is the engine size of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Engine displacement is listed as above 1000 cc.

How much does the BMW R 1250 GS weigh?

Curb weight is listed at about 216 kg (476 lb).

What is the seat height of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Seat height is about 850 mm (33.5 in).

What is the fuel economy of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Listed consumption is about 5.2 L/100 km (about 45.2 mpg US).

What is the fuel range of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Theoretical range is around 462 km based on tank size and listed consumption; real-world range varies with riding style.

Is the BMW R 1250 GS liquid cooled?

Yes — it is listed as liquid-cooled.

How many cylinders does the BMW R 1250 GS have?

It is listed as a 2-cylinder engine.

Is the BMW R 1250 GS good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 1250 GS a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Is the BMW R 1250 GS good for commuting?

The BMW R 1250 GS can be used for everyday commuting while also offering the versatility expected from an adventure-style motorcycle.

Is the BMW R 1250 GS good for highway riding?

With a listed top speed of 235 km/h, the BMW R 1250 GS has enough performance for typical highway speeds and overtaking. Long-distance comfort still depends on riding position, wind protection and rider preference.

Is the BMW R 1250 GS suitable for short riders?

Seat height is about 850 mm (33.5 in). Shorter riders should sit on the bike before deciding.

Is the BMW R 1250 GS A2 licence friendly?

A2 licence fit depends on power and power-to-weight limits (≤35 kW and ≤0.2 kW/kg). Based on listed figures, it may exceed typical A2 limits unless a restricted kit version exists.

What are the pros of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management.

What are the cons of the BMW R 1250 GS?

Heavy curb weight (~216 kg / 476 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care; Tall seat (~850 mm / 33.5 in) — shorter riders should test fit.

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