BMW has unveiled its new 2013 R 1200 GS at the Intermot Show in Cologne. Although it is still unmistakeably a GS, the familiar looks hide a whole host of changes.

The most significant of these concern the boxer-twin engine which, instead of being oil- and air-cooled as previously, now relies on water and air to keep it running at an optimum temperature. However, in making the switch a principle called ‘precision cooling’ has been adopted, which means that only those parts of the engine that are susceptible to thermal stress are liquid-cooled. A benefit of such an approach is that the two radiators can be small and fairly unobtrusive.

2013 BMW R 1200 GS. Scroll down for more images.

While the engine’s capacity is unchanged at 1,170 cc, the different cooling arrangement has allowed for an increased output of 123 bhp (92 kW / 125 PS) with 125 Nm (92 lb/ft) of torque, figures that are up 14 bhp (11 kW / 15 PS) and 5 Nm (3 lb/ft) respectively versus the old model. For the same reason, both noise and exhaust emissions should be improved too.

A ride-by-wire system called E-gas makes its debut on the GS, and it’s claimed to make the throttle response both smoother and crisper. Furthermore, E-gas means that various optional technologies can be fitted to the bike, including electronic cruise control and an Automatic Stability Control system that lets the rider choose from ‘Road’, ‘Rain’, ‘Dynamic’, ‘Enduro’ and ‘Enduro Pro’ modes.

Unsurprisingly, the R 1200 GS remains shaft drive, and as before a six-speed transmission is used. For the 2013 version, though, a wet clutch with an anti-hop function is being employed for the first time.

Another major upgrade for the bike is its new tubular steel bridge frame that comes with a bolt-on rear sub-frame. It’s reckoned to offer increased torsional stiffness, which in turn should help with the handling and stability. The front Telelever and rear Paralever suspension set-ups are carried over, and an Electronic Suspension Adjustment system continues to be available via the options list.

The brakes have also been improved, with radially-mounted Brembo Monobloc calipers at the front and a larger 276 mm disc for the rear wheel. In common with all new 2013 BMW motorcycles, an anti-lock system is standard.

As well as the regular version, an R 1200 GS TE (which stands for ‘Touring Edition’) will also be offered. Essentially, this just includes a lot of equipment that’s usually optional, such as an LED headlight, heated handlebar grips, tyre pressure control, preparation for BMW’s satellite navigation system and the aforementioned ASC, ESA and cruise control. As a finishing touch, the exhaust is chrome plated.

Whichever model is selected, buyers will have a choice of Blue Fire, Thunder Grey Metallic, Racing Red or Alpine White paint finishes. Prices have yet to be confirmed.