R1200GS Adventure Steering Head Angle

[MitchMan]

I have been reading some posts regarding the differences between the R1200GS and GS Adventure.

It would appear that the GS Adventure has a slightly different steering head angle to make it feel more planted when it's off-road.

I was wondering if this means the actual underlying frame is different, or whether it's a 'setting' that can be adjusted?

Many Thanks

MitchMan

 

[cookie]

i may be wrong here, but i think the steering angle is the same on GS and GSA.

i believe the angle was changed/steepened on the later bikes (GS and GSA both). my 11 certainly feels quicker steering compared with my old 07. can't see how it would make it feel more "planted" anywhere. it's livelier IMO.

it's not adjustable.

 

[MitchMan]

Thanks Cookie.

So if that's the case, there isn't actually any problem turning a GS into a GSA at a later date, apart from the £££?

MitchMan

 

[MikeO]

Part numbers are the same.

Link

 

[bmwrich58]

Yes you are correct, geometry changes in steering head angle,trail etc...for different model bikes.

Go to this site...http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/photos/2007models/2007models-BMW-R1200GSAdventure.htm

Find the bikes in question,look up their specs and compare, and you'll be able to see and compare the differences from model year to model year.

 

[MitchMan]

Interesting:-

2011 R1200GS Steering Head Angle: 64.3°
2011 R1200GS Adventure Steering Head Angle: 65.2°

How is this achieved if the frame is the same?

MitchMan

 

[Deleted account 240901001]

Interesting:-

2011 R1200GS Steering Head Angle: 64.3°
2011 R1200GS Adventure Steering Head Angle: 65.2°

How is this achieved if the frame is the same?

MitchMan

Arse up..head down....

 

[mr badger]

Interesting:-

2011 R1200GS Steering Head Angle: 64.3°
2011 R1200GS Adventure Steering Head Angle: 65.2°

How is this achieved if the frame is the same?

MitchMan

Suspension differences.

GSA has longer travel suspension. The angle is measured in relation to a line perpendicular to the ground.

No mortal would notice any real difference in riding from that extra 1ó on a GSA.

 

[red line]

Interesting:-

2011 R1200GS Steering Head Angle: 64.3°
2011 R1200GS Adventure Steering Head Angle: 65.2°

How is this achieved if the frame is the same?

MitchMan

2007 GSA 63.8°

 

[Nice 'n' Fat]

Thanks Cookie.

So if that's the case, there isn't actually any problem turning a GS into a GSA at a later date, apart from the £££?

MitchMan

I wouldn't bother trying, far cheaper to sell what you've got and buy what you want

 

[WindyChuffer]

No mortal would notice any real difference in riding from that extra 1ó on a GSA.

+1.

I feel a pepsi challenge coming on...

 

[bmwrich58]

Interesting:-

2011 R1200GS Steering Head Angle: 64.3°
2011 R1200GS Adventure Steering Head Angle: 65.2°

How is this achieved if the frame is the same?

MitchMan

"Head stock" of frame area isn't the same.
Perfect example as follows....
Find an '05 GS and measure how much room there is behind the lower fork brace area and the (plastic) engine cover. You'll see/find that the cover will slide out downwards easily.
Now find a '07GS Adventure and measure the same area and you'll see the area is much tighter,hense the removal of the lower part of the front shock to remove this same plastic front cover.
Why?? Because the forks are at a different angle (more upright).
This more upright angle will allow sharper turning...popular amongst "off roaders" where the speeds are much slower and quickness/agility are needed but fast speed handling will suffer. "On Road" speeds are much higher and turns are much slower in comparison so vice versa is needed.

Understanding Rake n Trail including wheel base.
http://bikearama.com/theory/motorcycle-rake-trail-explained/

I like this too...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorcycle_fork

 

[bmwrich58]

Suspension differences.

GSA has longer travel suspension. The angle is measured in relation to a line perpendicular to the ground.

No mortal would notice any real difference in riding from that extra 1ó on a GSA.

Oh but there is a difference...and YOU can tell...
A difference you can "feel" somewhat like when you install a different brand of tire your used too on your bike.
Ever compare an Anakee tire to a Metz Tourance?? You DO feel the difference. Even a bias ply tire will handle differently than a steel radial.
The different GS models over the years also present themselves differently with the way they handle. You can feel it. Some is more noticeable off road in tight conditions, and some on highways at speed in the turns.