MCN Fleet: BMW R1200GS Rallye's first mods

As with any bike, there are things you always want to change right from the get-go. Having covered over 20,000miles on the new GS in recent years, I know that the engine front plate takes a pasting, and that the rear tyre throws muck up over the back of the bike like a naughty monkey at the zoo when the going gets wet.

With that in mind, I’ve already made a few choice mods that I hope will help. All three items here are by MachineArt (from Nippy Normans). The fit was mm-perfect on all parts, while the quality and finish is also superb.

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MachineArt X-Heads, £169

Like all GS models, the Rallye’s heads are rather exposed. While many go for the crash-bar solution to protection, I prefer these covers, which give far wider-ranging protection from scrapes and knocks. Top quality, and a perfect fit – great insurance for your heads.

MachineArt MudSling, £142

The airflow dynamics of the GS mean that in wet weather it flings filth and water up at the rider – so I’m hoping this MudSling will go a long way to reducing that, keeping me and the bike cleaner, and protecting the shock more completely. It’s not rained since I fitted it…

MachineArt Avant, £57

The engine’s front plate bears the brunt of abuse from the front wheel’s rearward fling, and the short front fender feels like an odd oversight in this regard. The Avant adds 5.5in in length, and 2in of girth to the base of the original (and who wouldn’t want that?). 

 

See more updates on our R1200GS Rallye longtermer.

 

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