2012 BMW G650GS Sertao Comparison Photo Gallery

Like the engine, the suspension and chassis work best when pushed aggressively.

The 2012 BMW G650GS Sertao takes on other 650 adventure touring motorcycles. See photos of the Beemer on dirt and street. Read the full details in the 2012 BMW G650GS Sertao Comparison.

German adventure motorcycles command a decent chunk of change, but the Sertao is the most affordable and entry-level machine with a pricetag of $8650.

It only holds 3.7 gallons, which gives it the shortest range (203.5 miles) despite an excellent 55 mpg average.

It has heated grips and hand guards, an aluminum skid plate and fuel injection.

The five-speed transmission needs another gear and our riders keep reaching for it with a shift lever that never gives tops out. Shifting quality is notchy and false neutrals lurk between every gear.

The double-piston front caliper pinches a 300mm floating disc and single-piston rear snags a 240mm rotor to provide stopping power. The problem is that the ABS system feels archaic.

Starting with the standard G650GS, BMW installed longer-travel suspension, wire spoke wheels, a 21-inch hoop on front and aggressive styling.

The exhaust note is entirely unremarkable from its dual cans. BMW could shed weight by dropping the extra muffler.

A 652cc Single cranks out noticeably more power than the Kawasaki, but not as much horsepower or torque as the Suzuki’s V-Twin.

2012 BMW G650GS Sertao dyno chart

The BMW is the best at carrying a high pace in the dirt, but the rider has still has to stay on top of its slightly overactive handling.

The Beemer is rough around the edges and requires the right type of mindset to be a favorite.

It has a tall seat and wide ergos that makes transitioning from sitting to standing fairly simple.

The Sertao has a few amenities and features that the other machines cannot match. For instance, it has heated grips.

The other bikes will sit and watch as the Sertao gets playful in the dirt. It's unrefined, but clearly the best in certain situations.