R 1200 GS:

2013

The long-rumoured move to liquid-cooling brought a new level of performance and sophistication that was matched by the R 1200 GS’ uprated electronics and chassis. Power was up to 125 hp with a boost throughout the range, delivered via ride-by-wire with the benefit of five engine modes and traction control. Chassis updates included a new frame, optional semi-active suspension, and Brembo Monobloc front brake calipers.

A difficult introduction (reports of high-speed instability and the tragic death of UK journalist Kevin Ash on the press launch in South Africa) failed to make a dent in the GS’ progress. In the following five years it sold over 1,60,000 units, becoming the second most successful model after the original 1200. Meanwhile, the liquidcooled Adventure, launched a year later, racked up almost 1,00,000 sales of its own. Like the standard

GS, it was updated with revised suspension and a TFT screen along the way.