Road-testing BMW K 1200R: There is nothing that says that a motorcycle has to be aesthetically pleasing. There are machines which would not be out of place amongst world-class sculptures.
There are machines which, lacking any pretensions towards beauty, nevertheless declare a fitness for the purpose. And then there are those so incredibly ugly that, if motorcycles had mothers, even they would be hard pressed to love them.
In introducing the K 1200 R on an unsuspecting public BMW have again made it abundantly clear that long, long gone are the days when they just made solid, reliable machines for gentlemen of a certain age. This new addition to their model range is aimed at that sector of the market which demands a high-performance, aggressively-styled naked street bike. BMW call the design "extrovert and futuristic".
Aggressive this machine certainly is. We first saw it in Tenerife when BMW were launching the new R 1200 RT. It was on view to the general public for the first time anywhere in the world at the recent Motorcycle & Scooter Show at the RDS.
So radically "mean, muscle machine" is the K 1200 R that you get the feeling you would not be in the least surprised if it snarled and bit you! The aim, and BMW certainly have succeeded, being to convey predatory, aggressive and athletic looks. It is all part of their policy of producing lighter, faster, more agile motorcycles.
BMW claim that this "new generation" machine is the most powerful series production roadster in the world. It employs much of the advanced technology and design first seen on the K 1200S. A low centre of gravity ensures remarkable manoeuvrability at slow speeds, and less "edgy" handling at high speed.
Power comes from the 120kW (163 bhp) four-cylinder engine, which redlines at 10,250rpm and delivers 127Nm torque at 8,250rpm. Given a 237kg wet weight the power output translates into 688bhp per tonne.
BMW claim a 0-100km/h time of just 2.8 seconds. That claim is based on the figures for the K 1200 S. However as this K 1200 R has a slightly lower final drive ratio (2.91:1 as against 2.82:1) we expect that the actual "on test" 0-100 km/h time could be closer to 2.71secs. That is not just "fast". It is blisteringly, devastatingly fast. No other production motorcycle comes even near it.
With typical modesty BMW simply claim a top speed of "plus" 200 km/h. In reality top speed is certain to be closer to 300km/h.
The suspension and running gear employ the latest BMW Duolever and ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment). ESA enables the rider to adjust the suspension from the handlebars, at the touch of a button, whilst riding. ESA varies inbound damping on the front wheel, and inbound and rebound damping on the rear wheel.
The rider also has the ability to adjust the rear wheel spring base electro-hydraulically, for example for different payloads or whilst the machine is at a standstill.
There is an ultra-modern exhaust gas management system using a fully controlled three-way catalytic converter.
A very high level of safety is assured by the advanced integral ABS in conjunction with a high-performance EVO brake system, unique to BMW. As an optional extra the EVO brake system is available with "Sports Integral ABS". This means that the brakes (front and rear) are activated by the hand lever, whilst the footbrake lever acts only on the rear wheel.
A fully integrated electronic immobiliser is standard equipment and continuously exchanges coded and frequently changing data between the "ignition key", by means of a transponder and the on-board computer. This system is claimed to be the best and safest immobiliser currently available.
This machines all-round capabilities have inspired an exciting new one-make series - the BMW Motorrad Power Cup - which will replace the hugely successful Boxer Cup on this year's European tracks in support of Moto GP.
BMW Group Ireland will be represented in this high-profile series at Donnington Park in July.
Meantime your next chance to see this mean, muscle machine will be at the market launch in June.
TECH SPEC
ENGINE: 1,157cc, four-cylinder DOHC in-line producing 120kW (163bhp) at 10,250 and 127Nm (94lb-ft) at 8,250rpm. Six-speed gearbox, shaft drive.
CHASSIS: Composite aluminium frame with IHU extrusion-pressed profiles and die casting. Suspension, front BMW Duolever, rear BMW Paralever. Brakes front double disc 320mm, rear single disk 265mm.
DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase: 1,571mm.
Seat height: 820mm (790mm option).
Weight with full tank: 237kg.
Tank capacity 19 Ltr.
PERFORMANCE: Claimed - Acceleration 0-100km/h 2.8secs. Top speed: "200 plus".
PRICE: €15,800 + € 1,170 for ABS and €290 for heated grips.