BMW R 1200 R - Integral ABSBy Thomas GroussinAt BMW, the roadster (R suffix) is traditionally the last model of the Boxer series to benefit from an update of the range. However this time, the R 1200 R has the privilege of ushering in the new generation of Integral ABS. A more assertive character From the moment you see it, it seems clear that the manufacturer is gradually moving away from the classic timeless roadster image that it gave to the series of flat-twin roadsters, 1100 and 1150 for the more modern ones (the history of this motorcycle dates back to 1923 with the R 32 model).  © BMW The R 1200 R undeniably possesses the splendid finish and style of its predecessors, but slightly forsakes its classy, affected looks for the - currently fashionable - penchant for the somewhat aggressive technological roadster. The round headlamp unit, devoid of fairing in accordance with the aesthetic codes of the genre, is angled towards the road. With each upgrade, the body lines become increasingly taut around the very light structure of the chassis, showing to advantage the masterly twin cylinder engine, which now boasts 1,170 cc and is seriously sophisticated compared to the old version (output of 109 bhp, an increase of 28%). Taking the handlebar of a BMW flat twin, whether for the first time or not, always requires a short period of acclimatisation. You need to get used to the engine swinging to the right with each burst on the throttle, the special controls, the slightly sluggish gearbox, the original handling of the front axle with Telelever suspension system. A whole world that gives the R series - and its latest arrival - its character.  © BMW Still versatileOnce you have adopted the required riding style, you will discover the remarkable efficiency - a little cold, perhaps - of the old version. Still high quality, the suspension is logically firmer here than on the R 1200 GS trail bike. The R 1200 R is also more front-heavy, which further improves steering precision, but at the same time requires more physical effort to take on its trajectory, particularly at slow speeds. On account of its engine layout, the R 1200 R is a wide motorcycle, but its 223 kg weight when fully fuelled is still very reasonable for a 1,200 cc. Its remarkably well-balanced chassis, the flexibility of the flat twin and smoothness of the clutch make it pleasant for everyday city riding.  © BMW This roadster, however, is at its best on the open road, despite the absence of wind protection. The R 1200 R is sufficiently comfortable for long journeys, making the most of the excellent chassis layout when tackling a series of bends. While remaining stable and precise, the front axle becomes lighter at speed, with rare inopportune movements being curbed by the steering damper, fitted as standard. The reassuring linear engine offers power output from low revs. No need to focus on the gear chosen, or to reach the top end of the rev counter, to benefit instantaneously from acceleration that is both reassuring and pleasant. New ABS braking system with traction controlNew ABS braking system with traction control On this new R 1200 R, BMW unveils a new ABS braking system that can be combined, as an option, with a traction control system using technology directly derived from cars. Having been the forerunner with ABS for motorcycles in 1988, BMW is the first manufacturer to once again offer this stability control technology, which had been abandoned on motorcycles since the withdrawal of the Honda Pan-European 1100 TCS seven years ago.  Anti-lock brake system with control valves BMW's Integral ABS 4 first of all enables advances in braking control. On the R 1200 R, this new ABS proves particularly powerful. Two fingers on the lever always suffice to bring the motorcycle to a stop. Loss of pressure is very rare and always discreet. Many test riders have, however, been surprised by the feel of the lever during normal braking stages, without ABS intervention: slack and ineffective in the first part of its travel, then hard and rather brutal thereafter. A slight lack of progressiveness that you quickly get used to, and which brings to mind the old servo brake system. The Integral Sport function of this new ABS ensures constant regulation of braking force between front and rear, now controlled by electronics alone. This system stands in for riders if they don't use the rear brake optimally, but leaves them in control if they are within the limits of grip. Optional ASC Automatic Stability Control System The rear wheel traction control system is available only in conjunction with ABS (+£215) in the whole Boxer (except for the sports S model) and K range. It prevents wheelspin when accelerating hard, notably when cornering on wet surfaces. Of course, this equipment cannot defy the laws of physics and is not designed - unlike on MotoGP machines - to optimise cornering speed. A tailor-made GTDespite its high price for the category (£8,295), this roadster comes poorly equipped as standard: no passenger grab rail, no fuel gauge. This is, of course, offset by a well-stocked catalogue of options and accessories that make it possible to turn the R 1200 R into a real GT motorcycle. Examples of equipment available:
Technical dataEngine type: air-cooled 4-stroke flat twin, 8 valves Capacity: 1,170 cc Fuel supply: electronic injection Max. output: 109 bhp at 7,500 rpm Max. torque: 115 Nm at 6,000 rpm Gearbox: 6-speed Drive: shaft drive Frame: steel trellis, load-bearing engine Front brakes: 2 discs (320 mm), 4-piston caliper; Rear: 265 mm disc (ABS and ASC optional) Front tyre: 120/70 x 17; Rear: 180/55 x 17 Seat height: 800 mm Fuel tank capacity: 18 litres Dry weight: 198 kg PRACTICAL: Warranty: 2 years parts and labour, unlimited mileage Price: £8,295 Web site: www.bmwmotorrad.com OUR MEASUREMENTS: Top speed: over 200 kph (124 mph) Average fuel consumption: 6 l/100 km (62 miles) Average fuel range before reserve: 250 km (155 miles) |
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