Concept BMW Lo Rider

The BMW Lo Rider – sporty, purist roadster study with an individually variable design. Purist, powerful, unfaired and reduced to the absolute essentials – these few words provide an incomplete description of the BMW Lo Rider, the new concept study by BMW Motorrad. At fi rst sight, the focus would seem to beon the creation of a roadster with a muscular appearance, openly displayed technology and powerful fl at twin engine for pure emotion and maximum motorcycling fun. But behind all this is in fact a completely new custom concept.
The bike’s low weight, the powerful and high-torque fl at twin engine and high-quality chassis technology give it a high level of sporty riding dynamics, while the lowered chassis and the relaxed yet active seating position with the broad handlebars are more of a loan from cruisers and naked bikes. The concept is such that, for the fi rst time, the customer can be involved in the design of the BMW Lo Rider to an extent which goes beyond what has previously been possible to date. Numerous options including different exhaust systems, seats, headlamp units and paint fi nish variations allow for a level of customisation which is far greater than the familiar individualisation by means of special equipment features and accessories. This means that the entire character of the vehicle can be adapted to the customer’s individual taste: the customer can take full pleasure in assembling a machine just as he wants it – from a cool cruiser to an aggressive muscle bike.
An overview of the conceptual highlights
• Combines current technology with modern and classic stylistic elements.• Design elements can be individually combined by the customer.• Raised or lowered exhaust system, as preferred.• Seat for one or two as preferred, or aluminium perch seat.• Headlamp unit in classic shape or in streetfi ghter style, as preferred.• Fuel tank with or without aluminium trim, as preferred.• Four paint fi nishes for the fuel tank.• Three paint fi nishes for the engine casing.• Front and rear wheel wings fi nished either in black or chrome, as preferred..Leading the way with concept studies – a BMW Motorrad tradition.
BMW Motorrad has a tradition of coming up with new ways and ideas when it comes to motorcycling. Fascinating studies and designs have been produced in the past using ideas which then found their way into serial production. But studies by BMW Motorrad are about more than just trying to develop a motorcycle which has not existed in a given form before. In addition to functions and quality, BMW developers focus on the emotional component – the connection between man and motorcycle. The guiding principle is thata motorcycle should not just function perfectly but should also appeal to all the riders’ senses simultaneously, arouse an emotional response in him and fill him with enthusiasm at every moment – when stationary and when moving, as a whole and in its detail. In short: it has to light the fire.
Emotion through interaction – individualisation made-to-measure.
With the BMW Lo Rider study presented at the EICMA in Milan, BMW Motorrad is not just demonstrating a continuation of this policy but is in fact taking a signifi cant step forward in focusing on the interaction between man and motorcycle. The idea is that for the fi rst time, the customer should be interactively involved in the design of his BMW – going far beyond the familiar adding of special equipment features and accessories. The customer is to be given the opportunity to be much more deeply involved in the design of the Lo Rider from the outset, creating a customised, made-to-measure machine based around the principal components such as engine and chassis.
Classic meets modern – a combination of stylistic elements from different eras.
The study Lo Rider does not fi t into any of the classic motorcycle segments – and it is not supposed to. It combines the latest technical attributes of high performance sports motorcycles with the traditional, classic principles of motorcycle construction. State-of-the-art chassis components from sports motorcycle construction such as the powerful upside-down fork, 6-piston brake calipers with real bite and wide 17-inch tyres are combined with styledefining elements of motorcycle construction from the fi fties and sixties. Forexample, with the exhaust system in a more traditional lower position in side pipe style creates a classic roadster or cool cruiser look, while a raised exhaust system is reminiscent of legendary racing machines or typical scrambler models of days gone by. Together with a range of variously designed seat
The idea in detail.The BMW Lo Rider offers the motorcycle fan a wealth of possibilities by means of which to interpret the roadster theme in a highly individual way according to his own personal taste founded on a single basic motorcycle. In fact the Lo Rider gives the creativity of its rider almost completely free rein.
Chassis and engine – state-of-the-art technology based on classic principles.
The mixture of classic and modern stylistic elements of motorcycle construction combined with state-of-the-art technology is what gives the Lo Rider its defi ning look from all angles. A torsionally stiff space frame ofsophisticated architecture openly displays the bike’s technology and together with the upside-down telescopic fork at the front and Paralever rear-wheel swing arm provides the modern basis in terms of chassis technology - just as it is to be found in some current models of the BMW Boxer series. What is more, the chassis of the Lo Rider has been lowered as compared to conventional roadsters.
In terms of tyre dimensions, the 17-inch wheels represent the current state of the art for sports motorcycles, though with their chrome wire spokes, black hubs and steel rims they ingeniously echo the characteristic stylistic elements and flair of a past era. By contrast, contemporary technology and a high level of riding dynamics is provided by elements such as the high performance dual brake disk with powerful 6-piston calipers, together with wave brake discs borrowed from motor racing at the front and the single disc brake at the rear.
In terms of its engine, the Lo Rider also relies on technology which is both contemporary and full of character – the legendary, highly responsive BMW fl at twin “Boxer” engine. For 85 years, the construction principle of this engine has stood for unmistakable, authentic design, a full torque curve and unique sound and power. In its current version with an output of over 100 bhp, overhead camshafts, electronic fuel injection and exhaust gas purifi cation, the powerful response of this dynamic and distinctive 2-cylinder is simply perfect for the BMW Lo Rider.

2009 BMW F 800 S/ST

BMW Motorrad’s F 800 Sports middleweight machines are designed to offer serious fun to just about anyone – from commuters to tourers and even those starting out in biking. Having launched new generation contenders in the superbike, enduro, touring and sports touring categories, BMW Motorrad has turned its attention to the sports middleweight class. The F800 features a powerful, torque-rich 800 cc parallel-twin engine (the first in BMW’s history), a new suspension system and maintenance-free belt drive.
Previously BMW had a gap in its range between the single-cylinder F 650 bikes and the 1200 cc Boxers and four-cylinder motorcycles. This has now been filled with the new F 800 S and ST models. The 798 cc twin-cylinder machine is available in two versions – the sporty half-faired F 800 S and the sports touring orientated F 800 ST– both of which are designed to provide a thrilling ride for novice riders and experienced bikers alike.
At the heart of these machines is an all-new 798 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 85 hp and a punchy 63lb/ft of torque. A well-balanced combination, enabling the rider to ‘surf’ the torque curve rather than constantly needing to change up and down the gearbox. This is just one of many factors that will endear the F 800 Series to all types of rider.
The chassis is as impressive as the engine. Attached to the rear of the aluminium frame is a single-sided swing-arm while the front end uses conventional telescopic forks in place of the Telelever suspension usually fitted to BMWs. This all means a lighter, more straightforward chassis design that will naturally appeal to those more familiar with Japanese or Italian machinery. The aim of producing a light responsive chassis has worked well, as the F 800 S only weighs 182 kg dry (187 kg for the ST version.)
To make F 800 S ownership as easy as the rest of the BMW range (while keeping weight to a minimum) the engineers have fitted a belt-drive system. This is far more practical than chain drives common to most bikes, negotiating he need for a chain’s regular lubrication and adjustment. It is also lighter than the shaft-drive BMW generally favours.
The F 800 S and ST are bold entries into the middleweight category. They will raise the stakes in this important class by matching their competitors abilities while adding BMW quality, reliability and ingenuity. Competitively priced, the F 800 S and ST motorcycles are in BMW dealerships now and a special BMW Finance and Insurance package is also available for both models.
Technical features and highlights
After a development period of just 47 months, the new F 800 S sports middleweight, and the more touring-oriented F 800 ST, now form BMW Motorrad’s fourth model series. They also set the standard for more models within the series and fill the gap in BMW’s model line-up between the F650 singles and the Boxer-twin models.
The 798cc engine is a brand-new parallel-twin with four-valve technology, developed by BMW Motorrad in close cooperation with Austrian specialist Bombardier-Rotax GmbH. The power unit is built in the Rotax plant according to BMW standards and specifications, from where it goes straight to BMW’s factory in Berlin for final assembly.
The performance potential of this new model series is impressive. The S-model, for example, accelerates from 0 – 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds, offering a high standard of engine flexibility at all engine speeds. The slender, aerodynamic fairing works well at high speeds, and combined with the bike’s low dry weight makes an important contribution to the F800’s dynamic performance.
The key to this low weight is consistent use of lightweight technology, including an extremely stable aluminium frame and aluminium single swinging arm.Offering superior steering precision, the suspension and running gear is designed for a high standard of tracking stability and excellent handling. Other classic BMW virtues such as rider and passenger comfort, and exemplary safety features aim to redefine the standard in the midrange motorcycle segment.
Both F800 models are available straight from the factory with BMW Motorrad’s new, optional two-channel ABS, in addition to a wide range of special equipment and accessories.

2009 BMW HP2 Sport

BMW Motorrad has announced details of its sportiest, most powerful and lightest signature Boxer series of all time. The third model of the High Performance HP range has been designed for the ambitious sports rider and features numerous exclusive details that were previously restricted to racing – some making a first appearance on a production motorcycle.
Examples include the self-supporting and aerodynamically optimised fairings made completely of CFK; the gear shift ‘assistant’; a dashboard like that used in MotoGP; forged aluminium wheels and racing brakes with radially-bolted calipers. Wherever the eye looks, it sees pure racing technology. It is unmistakably dynamic and agile – a machine that will inspire on country roads and race circuits.
BMW Motorrad deliberately decided to further develop the historic boxer engine for road racers with racing circuit intent. The key engine data is extremely good, for example, the engine achieves more than 96kW / 128bhp at 8750 min–1 – more than the significantly modified engine of the BMW R 1200 S. The maximum torque of 115 Nm is achieved at 6,000 min–1, while the highest engine revs reach a peak value at 9,500 min–1.
Technically, the BMW HP2 Sport is based on the BMW R 1200 S. Although customised to meet the requirements of the ambitious sports rider down to the last detail, the BMW HP2 Sport is a completely independent and exceptional motorcycle. Many detailed solutions are based on the experiences gained in long-distance races.
The most striking difference of the BMW HP2 Sport (compared with the endurance racing boxer) is the all-new cylinder heads: Each of the double overhead camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger those on the BMW R 1200 S. Further modifications such as the flow-optimised intake and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod help the engine to achieve the necessary higher output.
The striking design of the rear silencer is impressive and the new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first time. This keeps the construction of the lower area of the motorcycle to be kept extremely slim, enabling greater freedom of movement for riding techniques such as ‘knee-down’ cornering.The inimitable boxer sound has a new acoustic quality and is generated by the exhaust system. In addition, the fitting of a CFK engine spoiler also provides aerodynamic advantages.
Another exclusive racing feature is the gearshift assistant. Together with the close ratios of the 5-speed gearbox it enables fast gear shifts without having to ease off the throttle and operate the clutch. This technology is offered for the first time in a series motorcycle. In order to adapt the gearshift pattern for the racing, a suitable replacement pressure sensor is available as special equipment (if required). The fully adjustable Öhlins sports chassis also has a Brembo monoblock brake system with radially-mounted, four-piston fixed calipers at the front.
Optimum ergonomics are ensured by the adjustable forged aluminium footrests, adjustable stock handlebar and the Magura radial manual buttons.
The instrument console is directly from MotoGP and provides the rider with important information such as lap times, other racing data and the usual displays (see chapter 3).
Consistent attention was paid to the light¬¬weight construction of all components. This included the self-supporting front fairing, the self-supporting carbon rear, the weight-optimised forged wheels, and such hidden details as the lightweight generator. It was therefore possible to reduce the unladen weight of the HP2 Sport to DIN standard with a full tank (90%) to 199 kilos. The dry weight is only 178 kilos.
The interplay of variable ergonomic design, increased engine output, and the favourable centre of gravity of the boxer engine guarantees superb handling and racing potential.
Even if racing is clearly at the forefront of the BMW HP2 Sport, it does not forego the safety design feature of ABS. The sophisticated anti-blocking system specially adapted to the HP2 Sport is available as an option and is configured so that it can be switched off for the racetrack.
The market introduction of the BMW HP2 Sport is scheduled for 2008.

2009 BMW K 1200 LT Lux

BMW was prepared to navigate uncharted water when it entered the luxury tourer market. Avoiding preconceived ideas and notions it tore up the specification sheets and started with a blank piece of paper. Waving the rules has resulted in the K 1200 LT – not so much a ponderous battleship but more the surprising and nimble frigate.
It has never been mandatory for a luxury tourer to be weighty and cumbersome, difficult to handle in traffic and hard work on twisty country roads. Despite its role as a luxury tourer, the K 1200 LT retains all the advantages of two-wheels. It vindicates BMW’s design philosophy by being relatively nimble in urban environments and dynamic and agile on British back roads. The choice isn’t simply between traditional and modern though – the LT can provide the best of both worlds with unheard-of versatility. The K 1200 LT is able to be whatever the rider wants it to be.
The driving force
The BMW K 1200 LT’s driving force is the relentlessly reliable 1171cc 16-valve, liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder engine. Redesigned in 2004, engine output has now been boosted by 15 per cent to 116 hp (85 kW). Maximum torque has also increased by 5 Nm to 120 Nm or 88 lb ft at only 5,250 rpm. With high-rise teeth on all gears, the improved five-speed gearbox now runs even more smoothly and comfortably, with noise reduced to a minimum. A 23.4-litre fuel tank ensures that petrol stops are few and far between.Specially modified Motronic MA 2.4 Digital Motor Electronics handle engine management, enabling the use of an automatic choke and featuring an electronically controlled throttle butterfly adjuster. A traditional choke lever is, therefore, not necessary.
The exhaust system and engine are equipped with a regulated catalytic converter and MoDiTec respectively. The latter is a multifunctional diagnosis component that allows the entire electronic and electrical system to be monitored. This results in easier and more precise maintenance.
Suspending belief
BMW’s exclusive Telelever front suspension system – arguably the most significant suspension development of the modern era – has been incorporated in the K 1200 LT’s set-up. A luxury tourer traditionally (and practically) requires softer and more comfortable suspension and damping, and although conventional telescopic forks would be adequate, a consequence might be unpleasant dive effects under heavy braking. Employing the Telelever system negates machine destabilisation and improves safety.
The ride quality of the K 1200 LT has been improved even further by extending the castor by 15 mm which results in even greater stability and smoothness on the road, and improves slow speed handling.The rear spring strut has 130mm of travel and incorporates the successful progressive damping system first introduced on the R 1150 GS Adventure where the damping effect increases as a function of spring action. It can be set to appropriate load conditions by hydraulic adjustment of the spring base. A hand-wheel adjuster is easily accessible beneath the seat.
The K 1200 LT’s slightly longer Paralever also contributes to a better standard of rider comfort and control. In conjunction with the machine’s longer wheelbase, the Paralever helps to ensure superior straight-line stability.
To add to the LT’s manoeuvrability, when parking, it is fitted with an electrical reversing aid. This is activated by the electric starter motor, which is connected to the gearbox drive shaft.Light by luxury tourer standards, the 378.5 kg (unladen, road ready with a full fuel tank) K 1200 LT is a dynamic motorcycle for its class. The balanced characteristics of the suspension set-up enable the LT to show agility other machines of the genre will find difficult to equal.
A beautiful body
One of the original design concepts of the K 1200 LT was to create, for the first time, an all-inclusive motorcycle body. This means that the fairing, fuel tank, seats, luggage and even the exhaust system have blended into a single unit instead of being individual components all grouped around an engine and frame. The engine is not rigidly connected to the frame as a load-bearing element but is, instead, housed in a central ultra-stiff, cast aluminium frame. This prevents vibration being transmitted to the handlebars, seat, footrests and body of the motorcycle.
The steel tube rear sub-frame has additional extra-strong base supports that hold the floor section of the integrated luggage cases firmly to the motorcycle itself. This rigidity is combined with special impact strips on the case covers to provide efficient protection should the machine topple over. These impact strips are duplicated at the outer extremities of the LT’s main bodywork.
The engine is not rigidly connected to the frame as a load-bearing element but is, instead, housed in a central ultra-stiff, cast aluminium frame. This prevents vibration being transmitted to the handlebars, seat, footrests and body of the motorcycle.
The steel tube rear sub-frame has additional extra-strong base supports that hold the floor section of the integrated luggage cases firmly to the motorcycle itself. This rigidity is combined with special impact strips on the case covers to provide efficient protection should the machine topple over. These impact strips are duplicated at the outer extremities of the LT’s main bodywork.
A luxury tourer provides the greatest protection against wind and other inclement weather when compared with other two-wheeled machines. BMW’s extensive and advanced wind tunnel testing revealed new solutions and refinements to many of the traditional aerodynamic problems associated with motorcycling. One of these is the use of transparent, adjustable wind deflectors that control the side flow of air along the motorcycle. This solution not only allows the rider to exercise some control over the environmental elements but also provides enhanced stability in strong and variable wind conditions.
Also new is a two-piece headlight, with high and low beam units harmoniously integrated into the fairing. Featuring free-form technology, both the high and low beam headlights come with clear glass lens, offering about 10 per cent better illumination than on the previous model.
Yet another new feature is the front mudguard. Larger and extending further down than before, the new mudguard takes up and continues the lines of both the side fairing and the engine spoiler.

BMW S 1000 RR World Superbike Racer

The two day test at Valencia was the first time that BMW Motorrad Motorrad Motorsport’s new riders Troy Corser and Ruben Xaus rode the new S1000RR and at the end both riders left in a very positive frame of mind. Both Troy and Ruben were immediately able to get right down to business and start working with the bike and start their new challenge. Fortunately the weather was good throughout the two days and the team were able to use the maximum amount of time on the track. Now the technicians will return to the workshops to analyse all the data and prepare the bikes for the next test, but the whole team is already looking forward to Troy and Ruben’s next track outing.
Troy
I am a bit surprised really because I didn’t think I would feel as comfortable on the bike as I did. The base is very good and although there is a lot of work to be done, I feel very positive about our prospects. Even though I have had just two days on the bike, I feel it is my bike and I wasn’t expecting that so soon. The team have now got a lot of info and telemetry data to work with for the next test, but I’m happy with the progress we made over the two days. The communication is very good and there have been no problems except that I got hit by a bird towards the end of the test. It happened between turn one and two and it hit me just under the throat, above my chest protector, and it was a pretty heavy hit. It ruined my lap and it didn’t do the bird any good either!
Ruben
I am happier today than yesterday, but that’s normal because I have now had more time on the bike. What I can say is that I am very happy with the bike - how it handles, how it turns and its power. It is very stable at speed and it is not a physical bike to ride and already I’m pretty comfortable on it. Troy and I have different riding styles and that means we are giving our team a lot of info and data for them to analyse before the next test. Troy has experience of riding twins, three cylinder and four cylinder bikes, so was able to get dialled in faster than me, but that’s what I expected. Everybody in the team is working well together and I feel very positive and happy about our future.
Berti Hauser - Director BMW Motorrad Motorsport
I am very happy at the progress we have made these two days and I am delighted at the feedback that Troy and Ruben have given us. Their comments have been very clear and make us confident about our situation and what we are doing. Troy and Ruben have different riding styles and requirements, but we get more info this way. We know we still have a lot of work to do, but I am happy because our direction is very clear. We are much closer to competitive lap times then previous tests (we didn’t use any qualifiers and Troy got into the 1:35s on race rubber) and we know, from the riders, the things we have to do to improve.For high resolution images of BMW Motorsports racing activities please visit: www.speedbrain.de/pressUser: speedbrainPassword: press

2009 BMW R 1200 RT

The BMW R 1200 RT – fulfilling the dream of motorcycle travel through active touring
BMW Motorrad has always exerted a considerable influence in the touring motorcycle segment and continues to lead, where others follow.
The RT ‘Boxer’ is the most successful BMW Motorrad tourer ever. The R 1150 RT has consistently been a market leader, enjoying a particularly loyal customer base despite repeated attempts from other manufacturers to capture a market share.
Its successor – the R 1200 RT – is the second model of the new Boxer generation and is predestined to become the ultimate touring machine. It has been improved significantly in all the above areas. It is more powerful than its predecessor, faster, significantly lighter, has improved wind and weather protection, better fuel economy and an increased tank range (as well as longer service intervals than its competitors).
The R 1200 RT is without a doubt a substantial evolution in the tourer segment and comes with optional Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) as seen on the a variety of BMW models.

85 Years of BMW Motorcycles by Motorbooks

The Art of BMW: 85 Years of Motorcycling Excellence, was just released by Motorbooks. The book details the history in over 100 beautiful photographs, the different types of motorcycles BMW has released. Everything from pre-World War II models to the Nettesheim Collection, can be seen in this 192 page first edition. Motorcycle and BMW enthusiasts alike will enjoy the many detailed photographs of the bikes and the rich historic details infused in the book as well. Available at

The following pages are taken directly from the BMW Press release on the 2009 S1000RR Superbike:

BMW has created a supersports bike that has best-in-class performance combined with supreme riding dynamics. With this world debut, BMW Motorrad is indeed establishing a true milestone in the world of sports machines, combining engine output of 142 kW (193 hp) with overall weight of just 204 kg (450 lb) including fuel (183 kg/403.5 lb dry weight, 206.5 kg/455.3 lb overall with Race ABS). Specifications of this caliber make this supersports machine not only an absolute highlight in terms of its power-to-weight ratio and performance, but also, equipped with Race ABS and DTC Dynamic Traction Control, a new benchmark in terms of riding dynamics, safety and innovation. Active safety when braking is significantly enhanced by Race ABS developed especially for the S 1000 RR as a genuine supersports and available as an option straight from the factory. A further most significant feature likewise contributing to active safety of the highest standard is DTC Dynamic Traction Control also available as an option and masterminded electronically for supreme precision and practical value. Facing various riding conditions such as wet roads (“Rain”), regular road conditions (“Sport”), a race track with supersport tires (“Race”), or a race track with slicks (“Slick”), the rider also has the choice of various engine characteristics and set-ups available at the touch of a button. And last but not least, Race ABS and Dynamic Traction Control are combined with the respective riding modes and coordinated with one another to ensure a supreme standard of performance and safety all in one.

Reviews of the 2007 BMW Motorcycles:

When you think of motorcycles, you probably think of Harley Davidson, Kawasaki, Yamaha, or Ducati, but BMW has produced a world class lineup of motorcyles with their Enduro, Touring, Sport, Naked and Sport Touring series of bikes. BMW has long been recognized as a produced of fine cars that are both reliable and comfortable with sleek styling and innovative designs and details. The same holds true for their motorcycles, with the average cost being about $14,000. They are afforable, fun, and enjoyable vehicles for both long haul riding and short commutes through the city. Below we go into each style of motorcycle produced by BMW and review the performance, cost, designs, comfort, and reliability. Keep reading below for more information.

When it comes to city riding or commuting to work on a motorcycle, safety is the first consideration and then you need comfort and smooth performance. The BMW motorcycles for city life are the F 650 CS, K 1200 R, R1150 R, and the R 1150 R Rockster. The F 650 CS looks like a dirt bike, but rides effortlessly on city streets with increased fuel efficiency and agility to match. At $7850 it's affordable and safe. The K 1200 R has 163 HP and is the fastest naked bike to roll off the assembly line at BMW. It's double what the F 650 CS costs ($14300), but the ride is more enjoyable with the acceleration and improved handling. The R 1150 R is perfect for fast takeoffs and winding down backroads. It's priced at just under $11K. With a unique paint job, the R 1150 R Rockster will draw attention, but the shorter wheelbase allows you to quickly maneuver through traffic on crowded city streets.

BMW

Lighter, smaller, more agile: That was the mandate that Machineart Industrial Design followed for their BMW R1200GSM concept bike, which was designed used Direct Digital Manufacturing techniques:
GSM body parts were modeled in Alias Studio Tools and SolidWorks 3D CAD software, and produced in ABS-M30 plastic directly from 3D CAD data using two Fortus 3D Production Systems from Stratasys.
Fortus systems use FDM, the leading technology in 3D printing and 3D production. Fortus systems eliminate the need to make tooling to mold plastic parts and allow easy revision and customization from one set of parts to the next.
A total of 16 parts were made in the large Fortus 400mc and Fortus 900mc machines, including two parts that served as the female halves of molds used to cast polyurethane foam seat cushions--an example of direct digital manufacturing of manufacturing tools.
The lower cowl near the exhaust pipes is produced from PPSF (polyphenylsulfone) a heat-resistant material option for the FDM process. This process enabled making ABS-M30 body parts in less than a month, saving many months of time over traditional prototyping methods.