BMW has slotted a third model into its four cylinder K1200 motorcycle range, alongside the luxurious K1200 LT and the sporty K1200 RS. The new machine, designated the K1200 GT, offers better comfort and improved weather protection than the RS without gaining the bulk of the LT. For many, who found the RS a tad too sporty for touring and the LT too much of a barge for enthusiastic riding the GT will provide a welcome compromise.
The K1200 GT should be pretty comfortable for all-day touring with a comfortable heated dual seat, slightly higher handlebars than the sports model and heated hand grips. Cruise control, luggage racks and panniers offering 56 litres of storage are standard, as are BMW’s partly integrated ABS brakes and a windscreen that’s electrically adjustable for height. Performance is lively, thanks to the fuel-injected 1171cc four-cylinder inline engine with its 97 kW of power and 117 Nm of torque delivered through a six-speed transmission. Top speed of the 281 kg machine is claimed to be 241 km/hr. The K 1200 GT retails at R135,600 (VAT Incl.)