2013 BMW R1200GS First Ride Photo Gallery

The 2013 BMW R1200GS has ample settings to ensure peak performance off-road.

Catch up with Motorcycle USA in South Africa as we take the 2013 BMW R1200GS for a spin. See photos from the excursion in the 2013 BMW R1200GS First Ride photo gallery.

The GS test route included off-road sections as well, allowing us to test the 2013 R1200s skill in the dirt and gravel.

Despite being over 500 pounds, the 2013 BMW R1200GS provides smooth, steady handling in the dirt.

BMW representatives insisted we keep the Enduro/ABS engaged during our first off-road jaunt and the linked braking proved incredibly effective.

The 2013 BMW R1200GS proved an able and willing mount off-road.

The GS has an adjustable perch as well as a new seat shape to help accommodate riders of different sizes.

The 2013 BMW R1200GS is a ready touring mount as well, with improved ergonomics and new components that help to make long trips much more enjoyable.

The newly designed Boxer engine combines liquid "precision-cooling" with exposed heads which dissipate up to 65% of the heat from the engine.

The adjustable windscreen that can be altered on the fly helps add to the touring capabilities of the 2013 BMW R1200GS.

The GS's instrument console has a host of features, including gear position indicator, Ride Mode and ESA displays, a clock, trip meters, ambient temperature and much more.

Foot pegs were repositioned 10mm lower than previous models, giving the 2013 R1200GS a roomier feel.

Five engine maps, optional semi-active electronic suspension, ABS and ASC mean the 2013 BMW R1200GS can suit nearly any riding style.

Wider tires adorn the GS in 2013, with 120/170 instead of the previous 110/150.

Though we didn't get to test the effectiveness in the dark, the 2013 BMW R1200GS comes equipped with an LED headlight and daytime running light.

GS bikes have long been a favorite at the MotoUSA offices, the 2013 BMW R1200GS only increases our admiration.

U.S. price has yet to be determined for the 2013 R1200GS.

Though there have been challengers to the GS's position as class leader, the 2013 R1200GS will help bolster Beemer's spot at the top.

We got the chance to test an Enduro Pro GS kitted with Metzler's knobby tires (left) for some of the technical off-road sections.

The 2013 BMW R1200GS far exceeds its predecessors.

The 2013 BMW R1200 GS has a newly designed liquid-cooled 1170cc horizontally-opposed Twin Boxer engine.

BMW engineers were charged with making one of the brands most popular mounts even better. The result? The 2013 BMW R1200GS and its laundry list of upgrades.

The new Boxer engine sounds racier and puts out a claimed 15 horsepower more than its predecessor.

It took a bit to get used to BMW's proprietary front end, but the GS quickly inspired faith with its composed handling.