2008 BMW GS Line-Up - 5 new bikes

[MikeCam]

http://www.bmw-motorrad.com/com/en/index.html?content

Highlights:

R1200GS and Adventure - 5% Power increase claimed. "Enduro ESA" feature added. The power increase has yet to be quantified. The ESA feature claims to adjust suspension for road conditions 'on-the-fly'. No info on price changes.

G450x - As raced. A plus for street legal Motocross aficionados.

F800GS - 85hp, 440 wet weight (estimated). A definite improvement over the R1150GS power to weight ratio. Not clear how well it compares to the R1200GS yet. 20 fewer hp and 40 fewer pounds - hmmm. One source claims an entry cost before additions of $10,500 USD.

F650GS - 71 hp version of the F800GS with the same 798cc engine spec. Apparently not for US distribution. Rather a Euro nod to licensing and insurance limits for many emerging riders.

Cam Sez: R1200GS and Adventure - welcome improvements to a 4 year old design. Nothing fancy, just movement. G450x - I am not a motocrosser so I have no opinion. I am curious about how this fits in with the G650X Challenge, Moto, and Country in BMW's plans. F650GS - ugly picture but I am told the Europeans don't care for style as much as function. If it gets more young Euro's (pun intended) into BMW that's not a bad thing. F800GS - was on my dream list until the surprise of the G650x Country. Looks like the goods if the weight, balance, performance, and handling stack up for serious 50-50 off-on road riders. A parallel twin is an unknown in the GS world - we will see.