BMW R1200GS

1170cc | 223kg | 108bhp | 850/870mm seat height

Having revealed their new double overhead cam motor in the

HP2 Sport, BMW rolled out this technology to the rest of their boxer-engine models starting with the 2010 R1200GS. With the change boosting power and torque by 5% to 108bhp with 88lb.ft, this generation is the best version of the air-cooled GS ever built.

Buyer beware

The twin-cam GS gained an exhaust butterfly valve which, like all such units, loves to seize up. Check it is moving freely by watching the cables when you rev the motor. With Enduro ESA a popular option, be wary of the electronic suspension as you can’t rebuild an ESA shock and it costs over £700 to buy a new unit. Some owners have experienced warped discs, so check for a pulsing from the lever, and be very cautious of any ABS warning lights on the dash.