| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Year Range | 2017 – 2018 |
| Engine Oil | SAE 5W-40, API SL / JASO MA2 (4.0 L) |
| Spark Plug | NGK LMAR8D-J |
| Battery | YTZ14S |
| Tire Dimensions | F: 120/70 R 19 / R: 170/60 R 17 |
| Tire Pressure | F: 2.5 bar (36 psi) / R: 2.9 bar (42 psi) |
Engineering Highlight: The Euro 4 Refinement
The 2017-2018 BMW R 1200 GS Exclusive (Internal Code 0A51) represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the liquid-cooled Boxer engine. While often viewed as a simple trim package, the Exclusive model introduced a critical engineering update: a judder damper on the transmission output shaft. This was designed to handle the increased torque delivery and meet the stringent Euro 4 emissions standards without sacrificing the mechanical soul of the 1170cc powerplant. This specific iteration is widely regarded by technicians as the ‘sweet spot’ of the 1200 series, offering the refined gearbox of the later 1250 with the simpler, non-ShiftCam valvetrain.
Maintenance Guide & Technical Insights
Lubrication System
For the 0A51-EX variant, precision in lubrication is paramount. The system requires exactly 4.0 liters of SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting API SL / JASO MA2 standards. Using the correct JASO MA2 specification is vital for the health of the wet clutch system, which is integrated into the engine housing. Overfilling can lead to oil aeration and increased crankcase pressure, so MotoSpecsLab recommends checking the sight glass only after the engine has reached full operating temperature and sat for five minutes on the center stand.
Ignition and Electrical
The 0A51-EX utilizes the NGK LMAR8D-J spark plug. These long-reach bi-hex plugs are essential for the high-compression ratio of the liquid-cooled boxer. Electrical stability is maintained by the YTZ14S battery; given the high draw of the Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) and the LED lighting suite standard on the Exclusive trim, maintaining a healthy charge is critical to prevent ‘CAN-bus’ fault codes.
Chassis and Contact Patch
The Exclusive trim is designed for long-distance touring and light off-road duty. It utilizes a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear configuration. To maintain the neutral handling characteristics the GS is famous for, tire pressures must be strictly adhered to: 2.5 bar (36 psi) front and 2.9 bar (42 psi) rear. Even slight deviations in rear pressure can significantly affect the damping performance of the Dynamic ESA system.
Editorial Verdict
The BMW R 1200 GS Exclusive (0A51-EX) remains a high-water mark for the brand. It combined the aesthetic maturity of the ‘Iced Chocolate Metallic’ finish with the mechanical reliability of the final-generation 1200 LC engine. For the owner who values technical durability and consistent performance over the outright complexity of newer variable-valve systems, the 2017-2018 Exclusive remains the definitive adventure-touring benchmark.