Thursday, May 14, 2009

Our Motocycles

Obviously there wouldn't be a motorcycle trip without the motorcycle and for this trip we have chosen the BMW R1200GS Adventure for its large fuel tank capacity (33 liters) and for it long suspension travel to make those bad roads a bit more bearable. Although the GS has some off-road capability our trip will have minimal off-road riding unless it is necessary.


This bike is quit high and for those of us who are slightly less than average in height will face problems when the bike is at a stand still or going slow, therefore we had to purchase an extra low seat for one of us (Guess Who?)


Engine Type

Air/oil-cooled flat twin ('Boxer') 4-stroke,
one camshaft and four valves per cylinder

Engine Displacement

1,170 cc

Rated Output

77 kW (105 hp) at 7,500 rpm

Max. Torque

115 Nm (85 ft/lbs) at 5,750 rpm

Fuel Capacity

34 liters (8.7 US gallons)
including 4 liters (1 US gal) reserve

Charging System

three-phase alternator 720W at 14V

Drive

Enclosed shaft drive w/2 universal joints

Wheels

Cross-spoke wire wheels

Ground Clearance

241 mm (9.5")

Seat height, unladen weight

894 mm (35.2")

Tire size

Front: 110/80-R19

Rear: 150/70-R17

Options

Anti-theft alarm
ESA

ASC
Chrome exhaust pipe
Fog lights
Integral ABS II
On-board computer (w/oil level warning)
Tire pressure monitoring (TPM)