Click for larger image

BMW Introduces the new R 1200 R
BMW Motorrad is continuing a long tradition in the production of roadster motorcycles and is proudly presenting a worthy successor to the very successful R 1150 R.

July 1st, 2006 - We feel in love with BMW's latest GS1200R dual purpose touring bike when we took it on the incredible Edelweiss Western Alps Tour last year. If we could nit pick it at all, it was its tall off-road height and long travel suspension which we really didn't need for the street based riding we did. This new R 1200R with its street oriented suspension looks to be the perfect naked road bike -with the possible exception of this ugly gas tank. We like the styling of the GS1200 R tank much better.

With sales of the R 1150 R and R 850 R amounting to almost 60,000 units since 2001, there is obviously great demand for a motorcycle in classic design combining unique character with timeless elegance. It is equally obvious that the outstanding all-round qualities of the Roadster have contributed to the great success of this type of motorcycle in the market and will be borne out even more significantly in future by the R 1200 R. Indeed, this new Roadster takes up the general trend towards enhanced dynamics without neglecting the strengths of the basic concept, combining a significantly higher standard of agility with excellent all-round touring qualities.

The 1,200-cc power unit develops 80 kW/109 hp and thus exceeds the output of the former engine by almost 28%. This flat-twin power unit comes with the same level of development already boasted in the R 1200 RT, with the oil cooler on the new Roadster now fitted behind the wheel fork. The rear section of the tubular spaceframe has been specially developed for the Roadster, helping to give the entire rear end a light and nimble appearance and reducing the overall weight of the machine. Dry weight of BMW Motorrad's new R 1200 R all-rounder is therefore just 198 kg or 437 lb. In road trim and with a full tank, in turn, the new machine also remains very light at just 223 kg or 492 lb, much lighter than other four-cylinders in this market segment.

Benefiting from the most advanced technologies, the Roadster sets new standards in the market, once again underlining BMW's claim to leadership in road safety. And for the first time the new model features the new generation of BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, which may be combined as an option with ASC anti-spin control from 2007. TPC tyre pressure control warning the rider of a loss of pressure also while riding is currently being developed as a further feature
for superior safety.

Last but certainly not least, the particularly wide range of optional extras and special equipment allows the customer to personalise the design and features of this classic all-rounder.

The most significant features of the new R 1200 R at a glance:
• Excellent all-round qualities.
• Air-cooled flat-twin 1,170-cc power unit with balance shaft.
• Maximum output up almost 28% over the former model to 80 kW/109 hp at 7,500 rpm.
• Maximum torque up almost 17% over the R 1150 R to 115 Nm/85 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm.
• BMS-K electronic engine management with dual ignition, anti-knock control, oxygen sensor, and fully controlled three-way catalytic converter.
• Light and stable, two-piece tubular steel frame.
• Stiff Telelever with sensitive response and a high standard of steering precision.
• Excellent handling, supreme directional stability.
• EVO Paralever with light drive shaft.
• ESA Electronic Suspension Adjustment as an option.
• Dry weight 198 kg/437 lb, overall weight with full tank in road trim 223 kg/492lb.
• High-performance brake system.
• New BMW Motorrad Integral ABS with automatic stability control ASC (both available as an option).
• Dynamic, modern but timeless design.
• Particularly wide range of accessories.

Return to • BMW • New Bikes • Pit Lane News