Here Is the 2019 BMW R1250GS in All Its Official Glory

We have known about the 2019 BMW R1250GS for some time now. Details about the bike’s new boxer engine were published over a month ago, which tipped off the use of variable valve timing on the venerable GS. We also learned that a displacement increase of1,254cc was coming, and with that a modest power increase of 134hp and 92 lbs•ft of torque.

Then last week, we got a teaser of the 2019 BMW R1250GS adventure-tourer, as a promotional video was leaked onto the internet, and it showed us in great detail what to expect from BMW Motorrad. More specifically, the video showed us the German motorcycle manufacturer’s new variable valve timing technology, called ShiftCam.

Providing two possible cam lobes for each valve, the camshaft shifts position in the cylinder head to engage one of the two lobes, depending on throttle inputs. Hence the name, ShiftCam.

This allows for different intake valve actuation (timing and stroke) during touring and city riding, for better gas mileage and softer throttle response, but still leaves the engine the ability to wake up during spirited riding, and provide more power.

The new “ShiftCam” boxer engine is coming to all the “R” bikes in BMW’s lineup for 2019, which of course includes the 2019 BMW R1250GS.

Other notes to the boxer engine include the fact that BMW has made the intake timing asynchronous on the cylinder head’s two intake valves, which makes for an enhanced swirling effect of the air inside the combustion chamber. This means a more effective mixing of air and fuel, which means a better combustion.

BMW has also changed the drive system for the camshaft. Instead of a roller chain, the boxer engine now uses a toothed chain. The oil supply to the engine has also been revised, there are twin-jet injection valves, and a new exhaust system as well.

Visually, you will have a hard time telling the new 2019 BMW R1250GS from its predecessor – the only obvious giveaway being the different valve cover on the boxer engine. This makes the R1250GS more of an update than a brand new motorcycle, but BMW Motorrad has a few changes for the new model.

The exhaust has been modified for 2019, and BMW is making both hill-start assist and its stability control electronics package standard on the R1250GS models.

There is no word yet from BMW Motorrad USA on availability of the 2019 BMW R1250GS in the United States and pricing. More info on it, when we get it.