The power unit – powerful and
refined.
The power unit is based on the two-cylinder with balance shaft
featured for the first time in the BMW R 1200 GS and corresponds in
the present version to the engine already acclaimed in the BMW R
1200 RT.
The technical features and details of the engine and its overall
configuration are therefore familiar, with full details in the R
1200 GS and R 1200 RT press kits.
Compared with the R 1150 R, the new Roadster offers almost 28
percent more power at a higher engine speed and approximately 17
percent more torque.
The engine is also 7 percent lighter than its predecessor
and particularly smooth and sophisticated, reducing vibrations to a
minimum.
The latest generation of electronic CAN-bus engine management
makes this modern power unit even more comfortable and smoother on
the road.
In particular, this superiority is ensured by automatic idle
speed control, automatic choke, and anti-knock control allowing the
use of lower-grade fuel.
To develop its maximum output of 80 kW at 7,500 rpm and peak
torque of 115 Nm at 6,000 rpm, the flat-twin requires 98 RON
premium plus fuel.
The six-speed gearbox with helical gears featured in the R 1200
R also comes from the RT, combining a smooth and positive gear mesh
for superior shift quality.
Contrary to the touring model, the drive shaft on the R 1200 R
features a shorter secondary transmission ratio of 2.75:1 (RT:
2.62:1), meaning that sixth gear is an active riding gear and does
not serve merely as a kind of overdrive or economy gear.
Suspension technology of the highest
standard.
Like its RT and ST counterparts, the BMW R 1200 R features a
two-piece frame integrating the engine as a load-bearing element.
While the front half of the frame comes from the RT, both the
steering head angle and wheel castor have been specifically
modified to meet the demands made of the new Roadster. A brand-new
feature is the rear tubular spaceframe structure
lighter in weight than comparable components and helping to
give the rear section of the machine its light and nimble
appearance.
The wheels run on the latest-generation Telelever and Paralever
suspension units carried over from the previously introduced
new generation Boxer models. Making an important contribution
to the Roadster’s stable riding behaviour and smooth
handling, this superior suspension gives the R 1200 R even greater
agility on winding roads than on the former model and at the same
time meets all the expectations of the touring rider in terms of
motoring comfort and smooth performance.
Roadster riders will be particularly pleased to have the option
of the acclaimed BMW ESA Electronic Suspension System enabling easy
electronic adjustment of spring and damper rates at the touch of a
button.
High-performance brake system and new generation of
Integral ABS.
Featuring two floating brake discs measuring 320 mm as well as
two four-piston fixed callipers on the front wheel, the BMW R 1200
R delivers powerful stopping ability.
Pressure is built up via slender, high-quality flexible-steel
brake lines also featured on the rear two-piston floating calliper
which clamps the 265mm disc.
A factory fitted option is the latest generation BMW
Motorrad Integral ABS, which may be further optioned with ASC
Automatic Stability Control.
Instruments.
The combination of instruments on the new R 1200 R is again
typical of a genuine Roadster: twin, stacked analogue dials are
backed by a digital LCD display. Information available at a glance
includes road speed, engine speed, overall mileage, trip mileage,
gear in mesh, and the time.
And as an option the instrument cluster may be further enhanced
by an on-board computer offering additional information. Further
details in this context are provided in the section on
Optional Extras and Special Equipment.
Single-Wire-System (SWS) with CAN-bus
technology.
As on the other models in BMW Motorrad’s current R- and
K-Series, the electrical and electronic components on the R 1200 R
communicate with one another via a modern data bus network, with
digital information being transmitted through one single
wire.
Introduction of the Single-Wire-System has dramatically
simplified the entire structure and configuration of the on-board
electrics, reducing the number
of cables and connections and significantly lowering the
weight of the entire electrical system. A further point is that
only this technology allows reliable, comprehensive and rapid
troubleshooting and diagnostic functions. It also enables the
service technician to read data and/or re-define existing
parameters.
And last but not least, the Single-Wire-System allows simple and
straightforward adaptation of special electronic equipment
enhancing the motorcycle’s wide range of functions.
Yet another major advantage this modern technology offers the
customer is the option to retrieve all kinds of information
quickly and conveniently via the instrument cluster in the
cockpit.
Electronic immobiliser.
To make sure that the new R 1200 R remains in the hands of its
rightful owner at all times, an electronic immobiliser comes
as standard on the new Roadster and is fully integrated in the data
bus network described above. Like on a modern car, the
ignition key incorporates a coded data chip communicating via a
ring aerial in the ignition lock with the electronic engine
management.
Verifying the data exchanged in this way, the system clears
the ignition and fuel supply for instant use.
Ergonomics and step arch length.
To ensure maximum comfort and freedom of movement, BMW
Motorrad’s designers and engineers have focused
consistently on the so-called step arch length in the configuration
of the seat. This figure defines the distance between the
rider’s two footprints on the ground – measured via the
inner length of the rider’s legs – and also takes the
shape and width of the seat into account.
Being particularly slender at the front, the seat ensures
excellent ground contact and gives the rider a much more relaxed
knee angle compared with the previous model. This also applies to
the passenger, who again enjoys the high standard of
seating comfort so typical of a BMW.
The standard seat is 800 mm high and the step arch length is
1,800 mm. And to cater for significantly smaller or taller riders,
the new R 1200 R is available as an option with a low (seat height
770 mm) or high (seat height 830 mm) or double seat as an optional
extra.
Design and colour concept.
The new BMW R 1200 R is a truly timeless, classic Roadster with
excellent all-round qualities and unique character now further
enhanced by the machine’s even higher level of dynamic
performance. So it is only natural to reflect these superior
features clearly and convincingly in the design of the
motorcycle.
Compact in its overall proportions, the new R 1200 R proudly
shows off the drive train.
The headlight pays tribute to classic motorcycle design, carried
forward into the modern age with free-form reflectors.
Close integration of the headlight into the overall line of the
motorcycle creates an almost “bullish” front end
harmonising smoothly with the slender proportions of the rear.
Even the elegant case support available as an optional extra
blends smoothly with this formal and design language. From the
rear, the BMW R 1200 R is dominated by the Paralever, which
dominates the typical BMW stance.
A new slender metal tank design has been made possible by the
removal of the side radiator.
The BMW R 1200 R is available in three colour variants, allowing
customers to build the classic roadster they have always
wanted.
The Night Black non-metallic finish highlights the
straightforward character and honesty of the new Roadster.
For the more discerning rider, the double decal line finish
painted in white by a skilled hand can be ordered as an option.
Crystal Grey metallic is an innovative colour scheme that
changes depending on the angle at which the machine is viewed. It
gives the Roadster a sophisticated, elegant and modern touch at all
times.
As a more “technical” colour, Granite Grey metallic
highlights the shapes and lines of the Roadster. It renders the
Roadster uncluttered by reflections and unwanted light
effects.
For further information contact:
Alexander Corne
PR & Corporate Communications Manager
BMW Group Australia
Phone: 03 9264 4238
Fax: 03 9562 2799
Mobile: 0439 568 819
Email: alexander.corne@bmw.com.au