Roadtesting the BMW Rockster 'Edition 80'
BMW continues to expand its range, aiming to provide something for everyone. Their latest edition is the "Rockster". The "Edition 80" tag celebrates its 80th year of motorcycle production. The R1150 R Rockster proved to be such a popular design study when it was shown at the Munich Intermot Show in September 2002, that BMW decided to start production.
The resulting model is characterised by its particularly extravagant sporting appearance. Like all other Boxers in the 2003 model year, the Rockster comes with BMW's new (twin-spark) dual-ignition serving to further improve emission control.
The basis of this naked "streetbike" is the well-known, tried and tested "R" series engine; a twin-cylinder, horizontally-opposed, oil/air-cooled power plant with a six-speed gearbox and shaft drive. The fork tubes, mudguard, wheels and clocks seem identical to their R 1000 S. The elipsoid headlights - "one eye bigger than the other" - derive from the R 1150 GS. The rest is almost pure R 1150 R.
This machine has been criticised for being made out of the BMW parts bin, which may seem to be the case. But that misses the point. When a manufacturer has a range of good systems: the Paralever and Telelever suspensions, the EVO braking system and a renowned power plant, not to use them would be change for change's sake and run the risk of losing legendary reliability. The acid test is does the mix work? We think it does.
Naked machines have a clear appeal. One glance in any showroom proves that and this machine is different enough to have a strong following. Immediately noticeable are the flat, almost straight, wide handlebars, somewhat reminiscent of the Vincent of yesteryear. They also have the advantage that the mirrors provide a better than average view.
The steel tank nacelle with twin air scoops also conceals a two-part oil cooler as well as providing good knee grip and wind protection. With a tiny fairing over the headlights cluster, viewed head on the machine has a really muscular look.
It comes, in standard form, with a single seat, no pillion footrests and a stainless steel cover where the pillion seat could be.
The seat is every bit as comfortable as one could wish for.The heated grips have two settings, "hot" and "very hot"; something to be appreciated at this time of year.
There is a clear, analogue rev counter which includes low oil pressure and low fuel warnings lights and a LCD panel for speed, time etc. The indicator switching system is traditional BMW; three switches to do what one could do. A range of optional extras include a Touratech screen, centre stand, pillion seat and footrests.
Handling is very stable, the steering utterly smooth and precise. The EVO braking system, which uses and electric servo, and on our test bike also had integral ABS, is little short of astonishing. The rear brake is stand alone, the front lever operates both brakes. You can come to a stop in incredibly short distances. Indeed, given too much enthusiasm you get the feeling that this bike will stop and, but for the secure riding position, you might carry on!It gives incredible confidence in all conditions.
With its high torque and well-matched gears any ride is smooth and effortless. The "top", sixth gear is a virtual overdrive. The two-cylinder engine is far smoother than any two-cylinder has a right to be and, surprise, surprise the gear changes lacked the clunk-clank that we have often experienced with the R series engine in the past.
In common with so many modern machines, the rear of the front mudguard ends at around a 10 o'clock position, presumably on the grounds of weight saving? This means, given the copious amounts of excavation deposits so liberally deposited on our roads by contractors, that the whole front of the engine, exhaust and balance pipes soon look as if they are made out of concrete.
Top speed should be 115 mph plus. Fuel consumption is reckoned to be 5.7 litres per 100 km at 120 kph, giving over 200 miles to a tankfull. It will do 0 -60 mph in 13.35 secs.
The lasting impression was of a powerful, comfortable, precise-handling, confidence-inspiring, quality machine. If you like naked bikes this is one to consider.
TechSpec
ENGINE: 1130cc, oil/air cooled 4-stroke flat twin. 85bhp@ 6750 rpm. Torque: 72ft-lb @ 5250 rpm. 6-speed gearbox, shaft drive.
CHASSIS: Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension. EVO braking system with partial integral ABS, twin front and single rear disks.
DIMENSIONS: Weight: 219Kg. Fuel capacity 20.5 ltr. Seat height: 835mm 835mm (not adjustable) - option of lower seat available to buy or order with new vehicle. Wheelbase: 1486mm.
PRICE: €14,850