BMW unveils the R1200GS Adventure

The closest thing a biker can get to a two-wheeled Land Rover, the German company's latest long-distance tourer is designed to keep on going even when the roads run out.

Over the past 30 years or so, BMW has been quietly cornering the market when it comes to serious travel Enduro bikes, and the latest addition to the GS range takes what was already a pretty excellent machine and tries to make it the ultimate two-wheeled vehicle for the longest of long-distance riders who don't let little things such as the lack of road infrastructure get in the way of their travels.

The bike's boxer engine puts out 125hp and its frame and component positions have been adapted and adjusted to minimize vibrations, making it easier to handle on rough terrain.

But as well as better balance it has a longer range, thanks to a 30- rather than 20-liter lightweight fuel tank, and enhanced stability thanks to ABS as standard and Automatic Stability Control, which changes the bike's riding characteristics under different conditions -- such as smooth roads, heavy rain, while customers will have the option of adding a further three riding modes as a cost option: Dynamic; Enduro; and Enduro Pro which will enable the machine to be set up to exactly suit the terrain conditions ahead.

Other notable changes include better ground clearance and 20mm more spring travel so that fewer of the bumps and craters are felt. And although not big on creature comforts, the new model also benefits from a bigger, better seat, larger windshield for better wind and rain protection and handlebar-mounted hand protectors.

BMW is yet to confirm prices, but expect a standard model to retail for around $20,000 or €16,000.

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