R 1200 GS Triple Black

There’s no doubting the abilities of the BMW R 1200 GS, especially in its latest guise. Its twin cylinder boxer engine was recently updated, and double overhead camshafts now allow it to produce a very healthy 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) and 120 Nm of torque.

Indeed, the GS continues to be the best selling bike in the UK adventure sport category. It comes in a nice range of colours, too: Alpine White, Ostra Grey Matt Metallic, Magma Red and Sapphire Black Metallic.

All of which makes the R 1200 GS Triple Black special edition seem a bit pointless and not particularly special, unless you’re a big fan of black.

Based on a Sapphire Black GS, the one significant difference is that the standard cast alloy wheels have been swapped for the (normally optional) black-rimmed wire-spoke items, as usually seen on the R 1200 GS Adventure.

Apart from that, all of the other changes are colour related. The front forks and engine are painted black, the swing arm, rear frame and valve covers are finished in Asphalt Grey Metallic, and the seat - black, of course - gets an embossed GS logo.

There’s no word on UK pricing yet, but in the US the R 1200 GS Triple Black will cost $18,385 (plus shipping and handling), compared to $14,950 for the standard model.

However, that higher MSRP does include the Premium Package, which comprises Enduro Electronic Suspension Adjustment, heated grips, on-board computer, hand guards, Integral ABS and pannier case mounts.