2011 Ducati 1198SP
The incredible 1198 SP is powered by a liquid cooled, L-Twin, Desmodromic engine that produces 170hp (125kW) @ 9,750rpm and a class-beating 97lb-ft (13.4kgm) of torque @ 8,000 rpm. The 1198 SP achieves its capacity by using exactly the same 106 x 67.9 bore and stroke as the factory race bike.
Volumetric efficiency through the four valves per cylinder is optimized with valve diameters at 43.5mm for the inlet and 35.5mm for the exhaust. They are actuated by racing-type rocker arms, ‘super- finished’ for reduced friction and fatigue, and double overhead camshafts with radical profiles.
The incredible valve performances achieved are only possible because of Ducati’s unique Desmodromic system, where valve closure is activated mechanically. At high rpm it would be almost impossible for the valve to follow the steep closure profile of the cam lobe if it were relying upon a normal valve spring.
The race-designed 1198 pistons have a distinctive double-ribbed undercrown to achieve high strength and reduced friction by using minimal piston wall surface area. Using technology developed for the Desmosedici MotoGP project, the design enables reliable operation of the 106mm diameter pistons when performing at high rpm.
Performance
Stunning ‘SP’ performance: the 168kg (370.3lb) (dry weight) 1198 SP creates a dream package by taking everything that the 1198 model has, including DTC, DDA and the new DQS systems, and adding top-of-the-range Öhlins suspension, lightweight chassis components, a lightweight factory team-style aluminum fuel tank and slipper clutch. The high performance, fully adjustable 43mm Öhlins forks, which sport low friction titanium nitride-treated fork sliders, respond effortlessly to every imperfection in the tarmac.
Beyond their advanced engineering solutions, one of the most important characteristics of Öhlins forks is their ability to communicate the condition and quality of the tyre-to-road contact patch, a feature that puts every rider in superior control.
The suspension set-up at the rear is complemented with a fully adjustable Öhlins TTX rear shock equipped with a ride enhancing top-out spring and mounted to a single-sided swingarm for outstanding drive and traction. The front-to-rear Öhlins package is completed with a control-enhancing adjustable steering damper.
The 1198 SP addresses this important area by mounting 7-spoke Marchesini forged and machined wheels. Both front and rear are super lightweight and their benefit is immediately apparent. The weight saving is further enhanced with the application of a carbon fiber front fender. The 1198 SP weighs in at 1kg (2.2lb) less than the 2010 1198 S thanks to the beautifully made lightweight fuel tank, which also boosts the bike’s fuel capacity by 2.5 liters (0.66 US gal) to 18 liters (4.75 US gal).
Chassis
The 1198 SP chassis and suspension are the result of a ‘performance-first’ priority approach to development, in which the goal is always to further reduce weight and increase strength and rigidity to manage the high-powered Testastretta Evoluzione engines.
Trellis Frame
Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the lightweight Trellis frame features 34mm main section tubes with a material thickness of 1.5mm. The result is an incredibly rigid construction that remains one of Ducati’s lightest frame solutions ever. Adding style to performance, both schemes of the 1198 SP are finished in red.
Front Suspension
The 1198 features spectacular 43mm Öhlins with low friction titanium nitride-treated sliders are used on the 1198 SP. The front suspension solutions have radial brake caliper mountings providing superior road holding and incredible feedback to give every rider more confidence and control.
Rear Suspension
The lightweight Trellis frame and single-sided swingarm enable a compact and weight-saving rear suspension linkage system that features separate lower pick-up points for the push-rod and suspension unit. This ‘tandem’ design effectively reduces stress around the linkage pick-up area of the Trellis frame. Working together with this highly efficient linkage is an incredible Öhlins unit for the 1198 SP with TTX twin tube technology providing totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound.
The system uses experience gained in MotoGP to minimize friction and reduce the risk of cavitations under extreme conditions. The 1198 and 1198 SP rear suspension system has an adjustable rear ride-height, independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings – valuable when seeking the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions.
Brakes
Ducati Superbikes have always been famous for their incredible, track-derived braking performance and the 2011 model line-up is no exception. The 1198 and 1198 SP both use Brembo’s incredibly powerful Monobloc caliper racing technology. Machined from a single piece of alloy, the calipers achieve a higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking.
The resulting increase in hydraulic efficiency not only delivers incredible braking power, but also provides an enhanced and precise ‘feel’ at the brake lever. The twin Monobloc callipers each have four 34mm pistons that grip huge 330mm discs on the 1198 and 1198 SP to achieve spectacular braking performance.
Wheels
The lightweight front wheels used on all Ducati Superbike models substantially reduces the moment of inertia, enabling a faster change of direction and enhanced acceleration and braking performances. The 1198 SP goes to the next specification level by rolling out on beautiful black 7-spoke lightweight, forged-aluminum, machine-finished wheels by Marchesini.
The 1198 SP models are all fitted with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires, at 120/70 ZR17 for the front, and 190/55 ZR17 for the rear of both 1198 models. These high-performance tires have shoulder areas that maximize the contact patch and carcasses specially designed for stiffness under heavy braking and precision during high speed cornering. This precision in tire construction enabled Ducati technicians to create extremely fine programs for the Ducati Traction Controls systems used on the 1198 and 1198 SP.
2011 Honda CBR 250R
The 2011 CBR250R is Honda’s response to this demand. Twin-cylinder engines are commonplace in the 250 class but the CBR250R is designed around an all-new 249.4cm3 single-cylinder engine with liquid cooling, an efficient 4-valve DOHC cylinder head and PGM-FI fuel injection. This single-cylinder configuration makes for a lighter, more compact and more fuel-efficient powerplant that also boasts a supremely usable torque curve.
The rest of the CBR250R package is similarly balanced, combining satisfying performance with the kind of refinement and easygoing usability that make a difference on every ride. The result is extraordinary – a truly versatile 250cc sportsbike with unrivalled fuel economy.
Main features
- Powerful liquid-cooled 249.4cm3 single-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts and four valves for strong torque and outstanding acceleration.
- Advanced PGM-FI fuel injection for superb throttle response and impressive fuel economy.
- Diamond twin-spar steel frame with 37mm telescopic forks and Pro-Link Monoshock rear suspension for outstanding handling and ride quality.
- Stylish full fairing.
- C-ABS version with Honda’s Combined Antilock Braking System for secure braking in all conditions.
- Multi-function digital instruments including speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature display, multi-segment fuel gauge and odometer/trip meter.
Ergonomic Design:-
Instinctive riding position
The CBR250R’s riding position is fundamental to its versatility, ensuring comfort and control regardless of the task at hand. It is designed around a low seat height of just 784mm, which puts riders of any stature at ease immediately since even shorter riders can easily put a supporting foot on the ground when stopping. The result is increased rider confidence and a bike that is in its element carving through traffic jams and other busy urban environments.
The position of the handlebars and footpegs works with the seat to create a sporty riding position that offers outstanding control and a feeling of being at one with the bike. At the same time rider movement is not restricted in any way. Indeed, so balanced is the riding position that even long days on the road are a joy, relaxing the body and leaving the mind free to concentrate on riding.
Outstanding manoeuvrability
Lightweight at just 162kg (166kg for the C-ABS version), the new bike’s manoeuvrability is further enhanced by its perfect chassis balance. In fact, what little weight there is seems to disappear once the bike is on the move.
The CBR250R’s sophisticated ergonomics are underlined by its multi-function digital instruments, which display all the information the rider needs at a glance. The result is less time looking at the display and more attention on the road. Speed, engine revs, engine temperature, fuel level, time and an odometer/trip meter are all clearly displayed.
With the power to carry two people effortlessly, the CBR250R is a very capable pillion machine. Grab rails on the tail unit are specially designed to take gloved hands, giving passengers a secure point of contact. Beneath the pillion seat a storage area makes the CBR250R a hugely practical bike, with space for the owner’s manual and toolkit that come with the bike as well as an optional U-lock, raincoat or emergency kit.
Engine
The heart of the new CBR250R is an all-new liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. Employing a 4-valve cylinder head with dual overhead camshafts, the new engine was developed with an unwavering focus on efficiency and usable torque.
By reducing internal friction to a minimum, the CBR250R engine boasts both gutsy performance and extraordinary fuel economy. And while the peak power figure of 19.42kW at 8500rpm is impressive, it is the relentless torque the engine develops from very low revs that defines the riding performance. Indeed the outstanding peak torque output of 22.9Nm combined with the bike’s low weight delivers class-leading acceleration, both from a standstill and in-gear. This translates into effortless traffic-beating performance and huge rider satisfaction, in town and beyond.
Where many of its rivals use multi-cylinder engines, the CBR250R’s single-cylinder powerplant offers many benefits. Because the number of moving parts is kept to an absolute minimum, the engine is more fuel efficient, saving the owner money at the petrol pumps. This mechanical simplicity also reduces servicing costs – another essential element in creating a hassle-free ownership experience. A single-cylinder engine is also more compact, helping create a bike that is at once lighter and more manageable than the multi-cylinder competition. Finally, because the engine is physically small, it has been positioned perfectly within the chassis for an ideal front/rear weight distribution which gives the bike superb handling.
PGM-FI
Like all the machines in the CBR family, the CBR250R employs Honda’s advanced PGM-FI fuel injection system for smooth, responsive power delivery and superb fuel economy. The Electronic Control Unit works in conjunction with the bike’s electronic ignition to deliver the perfect amount of fuel to the cylinder at all times. The result is an engine that really does have it all; a broad spread of power delivered with the immediacy only a fuel injection system can deliver. To ease maintenance the CBR250R uses an external fuel filter for the PGM-FI system, further reducing maintenance costs.
Six-speed transmission
As befits a machine with performance and versatility, the CBR250R uses a six-speed transmission to make light work of riding at any speed. The six ratios work with the bike’s power delivery to optimise acceleration and deliver both refinement and economy when cruising.
Chassis
The engine is mounted in a steel diamond twin-spar frame. This frame configuration is lightweight, contributing to the bike’s low kerb weight. It is also immensely strong, providing a rigid platform on which to mount the front and rear suspension systems. This rigidity is key to stability and swift handling, and on the new CBR250R the frame’s rigidity balance has been carefully optimised for sporty dynamics and superb stability at speed. The rider and passenger seats are supported on a strong secondary frame capable of carrying a substantial load.
Suspension
Suspension behaviour was crucial to meeting the CBR250R’s brief: to provide levels of sophistication and refinement not normally found on such a competitively priced machine. The bike features a hydraulically damped 37mm fork at the front and Honda’s Pro-Link Monoshock rear suspension configuration. This uses a linkage to help the Monoshock damper control the swingarm movement generated as the rear wheel moves up and down over bumps. The result is a superb ride quality combined with the poise and feedback that supports sports riding on challenging roads.
High performance wheels, tyres and brakes
The CBR250R uses big-bike wheel and tyre sizes for enhanced levels of grip and serious presence on the road. The cast wheels mount a 110/70-MC17 front tyre and a 140/70-MC17 rear tyre – purposeful rubber for a serious motorcycle. Braking is taken care of by a large-diameter 296mm disc and a powerful dual-piston caliper at the front. At the rear a smaller 220mm disc and single-piston caliper further boost the bike’s stopping capability while also offering the controlled rear-wheel braking required to perform low-speed riding manoeuvres.
Combined ABS
The new CBR250R is also available in a Combined ABS version. Honda’s advanced Combined Antilock Braking System links the front brake control to the rear brake and prevents tyre slip when braking, ensuring safe and powerful deceleration in all situations. The system’s ECU uses sensors to monitor the speeds of the front and rear wheels. If these sensors detect that one wheel is beginning to rotate more slowly than the other, suggesting the first hint of tyre slip, the Combined Antilock Braking System modulates the braking effort to ensure full grip is retained. Thus it maximises braking ability while retaining complete control of the bike.
2011 Honda CBR 600RR
The CBR600RR has continually raised the bar in both track and road performance. Its ultra-light weight, mass centralisation and compact chassis ensure that its blistering power is balanced by easy, natural handling and faultless road manners. Its potent engine delivers immediate, exhilarating torque, while its fairing is aggressively aerodynamic, enhances stability and allows maximum enjoyment of the machine’s performance.
Radially-mounted four-piston caliper front disc brakes give it sensational stopping power, while the ABS version features the revolutionary Honda electronically-controlled “Combined ABS”, which delivers all the benefits of ABS in a system designed specifically for Super Sports riders. Due to its short wheelbase, a sportsbike can be prone to pitching under hard braking, which reduces rear traction. Honda’s electronically-controlled “Combined ABS” minimises this tendency, ensuring superb stability and control under severe deceleration.
Performance, Handling and Desire
Other 600cc machine has won more magazine comparisons and AMA championships than Honda’s CBR600RR. Striking the ideal balance of power and handling, the new CBR600RR blends a light and compact chassis with impeccable power delivery for a combination that’s hard to beat. Also available with the Honda’s unique Combined ABS for the pinnacle of sportbike braking performance, the 2011 CBR600RR continues to set the standard for the middleweight class.
Is Honda’s CBR600RR the perfect sportbike? Plenty of riders think so. And it’s easy to see why. First off, it offers a near magical combination of light weight, free-revving power, compliant suspension and all in a package that’s sized just right.
The CBR600RR has been honed to perfection on the track, where it dominates the World Supersport championship scene. And then there’s the CBR’s awe-inspiring degree of Honda technology: tuned twin-spar frame, Programmed fuel injection, the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) and Honda’s available Combined ABS that all add up to put the CBR600RR way ahead of anything in the 600 class.
Braking
The CBR600RR’s Combined ABS is the first of its kind on a Supersport machine. The experts are unanimous: brakes like these are a huge step forward. They love them, and you’re going to love them even more. Find out how this revolutionary feature works.
Electronic Steering Damper
Compact, unobtrusive and there when you need it, the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) helps maintain smoothly predictable high-speed handling and low-speed maneuverability. It’s a huge breakthrough in predictable, responsive handling.
A Leader on the track and off
The CBR600RR flat out OWNS the World Supersport Championship. Follow Honda’s string of victories and catch up on Team Honda’s racing highlights, including classes like MotoGP and Moto2 as well.
Line-beam Headlights
Line-beam headlight features two-piece reflector design utilizing two H7 bulbs for optimum light distribution and unique compact design. The result: the headlight helps you see better, and also helps make you visible to traffic.
Ram Air
Wind resistance is a sportbike’s enemy. The CBR600RR takes that high-pressure air and channels it through the ram air ducts mounted under the fairing’s chin to help boost engine performance.
Combined Anti-Lock Braking (C-ABS) – All-new, electronically controlled Combined ABS distributes brake force over both wheels, helping to maintain braking confidence in less than ideal conditions. Electronic measurement of rider input on each brake lever permits application of only the front or rear brake in some cases, while the system combines both brakes in others.
Suspension
By eliminating the frame-mounted top shock mount, Unit Pro-Link isolates the chassis from bumps, resulting in more precise handling and better traction. Developed on Honda’s championship-winning MotoGP bikes, it’s a perfect example of the CBR’s superior engineering.
Fuel Tank
The centrally located fuel tank increases mass centralization for a more compact frame design.
Dual-Stage Fuel Injection
Two sets of injectors per cylinder ensure both low- and high-rpm performance. You get near instantaneous high-rpm response, along with great low-rpm metering and clean running.
Multi-Action System (HMAS) Inverted Fork
The HMAS cartridge fork features an exclusive internal piston construction. The innovative design employs smaller-diameter pistons to keep oil velocity high for improved damping characteristics and an expanded range of adjustability. The result: you get more precise suspension performance, especially over smaller surface irregularities.
Radial Mounted Front-Brake Calipers
The CBR600RR’s radial-mounted monoblock front-brake calipers are stiffer, for better brake feel and performance. Each caliper uses four chromium-plated aluminum pistons that squeeze lightweight 310mm floating discs for exceptional stopping power.
2011 Yamaha YZF-600 R6
The 2011 Yamaha R6 are to be the most exciting bike to ride on the track and the most fun sport bike to ride on winding roads. The engineers tweaked the mid range performance last year but don’t worry, the high rpm rush that has made the Yamaha R6 famous is ready when you are. Confidence, agility, performance and most importantly fun.
The 2011 Yamaha R6 is designed to do one thing extremely well: get around a race track in minimal time. It’s about a screaming, 15,000 rpm plus fuel injected four cylinder engine in a taut chassis that lets it snap from upright to full lean instantly. Oh year: It’s a great street bike too.
Engine
Ultra-compact, lightweight, short stroke, 599cc, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder with lightweight titanium valves produces incredible horsepower. Redline is set at an amazing 16,000rpm. 67mm bore and 42.5mm stroke provide a fast revving powerplant. Engine width is minimized thanks to Yamaha’s special casting technologies and “liner less” cylinder design.
Compact “pent roof” cylinder head design features ultra lightweight titanium valves for both intake and exhaust. The intake valve angle is 11.5 degrees and the exhaust is 12.25 degress. The intake valves are 27mm in diameter while the exhaust valves are 23mm. Single intake valve springs reduce weight and “friction” for optimum high rpm performance. The valve retainers are made of lightweight aluminum.
Separate cylinder block (the cylinder is no longer part of the upper crankcase) design utilizes ceramic composite plated “liner less” cylinder bores. The ceramic coating is sprayed directly on the aluminum block. The benefits are greater heat dissipation for consistent power delivery, reduced frictional power loss, reduced oil consumption and since there are no heavy liners, reduced weight too. Lightweight forged pistons feature thin top rings for great high rpm power. The pistons are secured by lightweight tapered type piston pins. The lightweight design means fast engine response.
High Lift / High Performance
Mikuni fuel injection system with 41mm throttle bodies features twin injectors (primary & secondary). This type of twin injector system is also found on our MotoGP M1 machine and the latest generation R1. Each of the injectors utilizes 12 spray holes to maximize the atomization process. The secondary injectors, located inside the airbox, begin to function at mid rpms (6,000 to 7,000rpm) thru to redline. This system is lighter and simpler than the sub motor driven secondary valve type FI system. Special short intake tracts allow for higher rpms and improved power.
Yamaha Chip Control Throttle (YCC-T) is another 1st for Yamaha. This system electronically controls the throttle valves for outstanding response and improved controllability at high rpms. The system features Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) and D.C. motor driven throttle valves. The YCC-T system electronically controls the throttle valves for outstanding response and improved controllability at all rpms. The YCC-T is used to provide even more control of the intake air volume for a smoother torque character. The YCC-T features 3 – ECU’s inside the main ECU to control ignition, fuel injection and the YCC-T. This special ECU is capable of responding to changes at a speed of 1000th of a second.
YCC-I or Yamaha’s Chip Controlled Intake system means the intake funnels / stacks vary in length between 2 pre-set positions depending on engine rpms. The transition rpm is approximately 13,700 rpms. An electronic servo motor varies the funnels. The revolutionary YCC-I provides the best of both worlds …solid low rpm torque and power combined with an amazing high rpm rush. It takes only 0.3 of a second for the funnels to move from the tall to the short position.
Chassis/Suspension
Compact, lightweight aluminum Deltabox frame offers an optimized total rigidity balance for incredibly light and agile handling. This frame is a MotoGP inspired innovation that Yamaha calls a “straight frame concept”. This means the top spars of the frame lie as close to possible to the frame’s torsional axis (the line connecting the head pipe to the swingarm pivot point). The ram air duct passes through the frame at the head pipe for a straight ram air effect too. A mix of revised mold castings and pressed aluminum plates make up the frame. The engine is a fully stressed chassis member allowing for a super-light frame design.
Fully adjustable 41mm inverted front fork provides 120mm (4.7″) of wheel travel and offers incredible suspension performance with ultra-precise feedback. Adjustments include: 5-way spring preload, 4-way high speed compression damping, 20-way low speed compression damping and 25-way rebound damping. The inverted design not only reduces unsprung weight but also increases the rigidity of the fork. The range of adjustments allows the rider to tune suspension to match riding style and conditions.
Upper triple clamp features a 30mm offset for precise handing and great steering feel. The lightweight aluminum clip-ons are mounted below the triple clamp. Fully adjustable Monocross link rear suspension utilizes a piggyback-style shock providing 120mm (4.7″) of wheel travel. Shock adjustments include: 9-steps of spring preload adjustability, 4-way high speed compression damping, 20-way low speed compression damping and 18-way rebound damping adjustability. The piggy back design helps to keep the shock oil cool for more consistent damping.
Radial mount, monoblock, 4-piston calipers squeeze large 310mm dual front discs. The radial mounting design helps to reduce caliper distortion for improved braking performance with excellent control and good lever feedback. The disc carriers are made from aluminium for reduced weight while the sinter metal pads provide incredible stopping power.
Ultra-sleek “new edge form” bodywork features a sharp front profile with centrally located Ram Air duct, engine-revealing side cowlings and ultra-sleek tail section. There are special side fairing intake ducts to allow cool air to circulate around the engine, fuel tank and frame areas. “Minimalism” and “mass forward” movement are two words that best describe this design body. 17.5-litre fuel tank provides excellent rider ergonomics and an aggressive riding position. The reserve portion of the tank is 3.5 liters. The tank features a front tank cover like the R1 and an internal electric fuel pump.
Compact race inspired multi-function digital and analog instrumentation with adjustable back lighting. Features: analog tach, digital speedometer, dual tripmeters, low fuel warning light, fuel tripmeter, and clock. There is also a programmable shift light and stop watch/lap timer that is controlled by the LHS handlebar mounted switch gear.
Immobilizer ignition system is designed to reduce the possibility of “ride away” theft. This system must recognize the “coded ignition key” in order for the unit to start. If the immobilizer ignition does not recognize the key (or a theft’s screwdriver or other type of “jimmy tool”) the bike will not start even if the ignition is turned or forced into the on position. If the system does not recognize the correct coded ignition key, the ignition system and starter will not function.
Additional Features
Adjustable front brake lever
Special 525 lightweight O-ring chain is used to reduce weight
Steering lock
Lightweight aluminum side stand and chain adjusters
Lightweight low maintenance sealed gel-type battery
The YZF-R6 offers a significant level of power and performance. It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.
2008 BMW HP2 Sport
Based on the R1200S engine, the BMW HP2 Sport gives up a claimed 128bhp at the crankshaft to make this the most powerful Boxer engine ever. The power figure comes from a higher rev ceiling thanks to a new four-valve, double-over-head-cam design and lightweight pistons and superb electronics. Put this all together and you get a punch-laden lump that will hit high 120mph all day every day – and sound good from the underslung exhaust system. Gear ratios are revised enough to ensure the front wheel will loft in first gear and keep the engine on the boil at the top end of the revs.
Five out of five rating for this section might seem strange but you have to remember BMW ran the same model in the later stages of the World Endurance Championship without a problem – 24 hours of Bol d’ Or hell at the Magny Cours circuit is a tough test for a bike. The race bike ran with the same engine, ECU and airfilter as you get with the HP2 Sport.
You won’t believe how ridiculously easy it is to cajole the BMW HP2 Sport though hairpins and fast sweepers. While the handling can be described as fast and light (agile), it remains as stable as the R1200S it is based on. Seriously, you can brake late and hard and the Telelever front end combined with an Ohlins shock absorber keeps everything shipe shape. An Ohlins shock at the rear does exactly the same perfect job of keeping the rear end in place at any speed or angle. Not only does it make a brilliant road-going bike, the BMW HP2 will cut up rough at track days.
When you consider the BMW HP2 Sport comes with every desirable component we’d all like to have on our own motorcycles eg Brembo brakes, Ohlins suspension, then the £14,500 price is not so hard to swallow. To BMW purists this is the best, sportiest BMW ever and may be considered priceless. MCN is not alone on this line of thought because most of the 95 bikes UK bound for 2008 are pre-sold.
Although the HP2 Sport is a BMW there are no panniers to talk of – there is, however, an accessory tank bag. Instead what you get with the BMW HP2 Sport is the best of everything: Ohlins suspension, perfectly formed carbon fibre rear subframe, front fairing stay, upper fairing, front fender and more. Brembo race-spec Monobloc front calipers and lightweight forged aluminium wheels laced with Metzeler race compound tyres are just some of the other choice parts. The HP2 Sport is also the first production motorcycle to carry a quick shifter as standard – fitted in-line of the gear lever to cut the spark and fuel injection for clutch-less shifts.
2008 BMW F800GS
Derived from the F800S unit, but with a more upright block, the BM parallel twin is intoxicatingly invigorating. 85 horses might not sound like much, but its more than enough. It’s perky and fruity, has a deliciously raspy exhaust note and is responsive, progressive and yet yearns for more and more revs up to the redline. Wring its neck and duck yours behind the reasonable screen and you’ll see 125mph, which is more than ample, thankyou. The rest of time it just delivers what and when you want it.
BMW rules again. Although there have been occasional hiccups in recent years, there should be little to worry about with the new F800GS. The F800S/ST upon which it’s based has proved mechanically reliable and solid and the engineering is proven. Unusually, for a BMW though, you’ll have to maintain a drivechain.
Unlike the 1200GS the 800’s no monster. Though tall and ‘proper’ the 800GS is lithe, slim and light, enough to both remind of conventional, single cylinder enduros, from, say KTM, and to make it a doddle, at least compared to the 1200, to manhandle and manouvere, thanks to masses of steering lock, decent suspension, lightness and assured weight distribution.
Being a BMW the F800GS’s fairly basic standard but with the usual myriad of accessories and factory fitted options available. Different seats, screens and bars are available; as are the usual sophisticated luggage systems plus creature comforts like sat nav, heated grips and the like.
At £6999 the price is possibly the new GS’s biggest trump card of all. That represents fabulous value compared to the £2000 dearer 1200 version and there really is nothing else close to it in terms of all round ability. But if you want better value still, got for the in many ways identical £5495 F650GS.
2009 BMW K1300R
The motor is the biggest single area of improvement over the previous model. Engineering development was handed over to the spanner magicians at Ricardo – the same firm that designed the gearbox for the 1000bhp Bugatti Veyron hypercar. This is the first time BMW has worked with Ricardo on one of its bikes. The result is a claimed 173bhp from an increased 1293cc four-cylinder motor that is much smoother with bundles of power and torque. It’s one of the best big-capacity motors on the road today combining lovely refinement with a racing engine snarl when pushed. And yes, it’s very, very, very fast. The only question is how long you can hang on.
Few bikes shrug off winter better than a BMW motorcycle but it will still need regular attention to keep it looking shiny. The uprated shaft drive means less maintenance and expense than a chain. A few owners of the BMW K1200S previous model seemed to have suffered from vibration and quite high oil consumption but the new engine should stop that happening.
The BMW K13000R is actually a little easier to chuck around than the faired BMW K1300S model thanks to wider, taller handlebars which give loads of leverage over the fairly substantial weight of the bike. Use of aluminium rather than steel on the Duolever front suspension has taken 1kg off the unsprung weight and this has added a bit of feel to the slightly numb handling feedback on the outgoing model. The ESA II system and ASC traction control are brilliant and well worth the cash.
At £9500 for the stock model without ABS there is no getting away from the fact that the BMW K1300R is not a cheap bike…add in the essential ABS and ESA II and the price goes to £10,675. From there on in adding options obviously just adds more and more to the costs. ESA II must be on the list as it transforms the bike. BMW do a Dynamic Pack which puts ABS and ASC traction control together with a Tyre Pressure Control system for £1175 and saves £143.
Spec up a BMW K1300R with all of the options BMW has to offer and it’s going to be an expensive machine. There are some must-haves though and the ESA II at £617 is one of them as it offers a great deal of adjustment and takes the guesswork out of suspension adjustment. ABS is another one. After that there are some lovely choices. Heated grips, hard luggage, Akrapovic exhaust, onboard computer and a quickshifter. There are also carbon bits, mini-indicators and crash bungs as standard on the R. Most are worth a look although we would give the quickshifter a miss as although it works just fine, it seems out of place on a bike like this.
2009 BMW K1300S
The motor is the biggest single area of improvement. Engineering development was handed over to the spanner magicians at Ricardo – the same firm that designed the gearbox for the 1000bhp Bugatti Veyron hypercar. This is the first time BMW has worked with Ricardo on one of its bikes. The result is a claimed 175bhp from an increased 1293cc four-cylinder motor that is much smoother with bundles of power and torque. It’s one of the best big-capacity motors on the road today combining lovely refinement with a racing engine snarl when pushed. And yes, it’s very, very, very fast.
Few bikes shrug off winter better than a BMW motorcycle but it will still need regular attention to keep it looking shiny. The uprated shaft drive means less maintenance and expense than a chain. A few owners of the BMW K1200S previous model seemed to have suffered from vibration and quite high oil consumption but the new engine should stop that happening.
At £10,165 for the stock model without ABS there is no getting away from the fact that the BMW K1300S is not a cheap bike…add in the essential ABS and the price hits £11,060. From there on in adding options obviously just adds more and more to the costs. ESA II must be on the list as it transforms the bike. BMW do a Dynamic Pack which puts ABS and ASC traction control together for £377 and saves £45. So to get ABS, ASC and ESA II adds almost £1000 to the £10,165 cost. You do get a lot of bike for the money however but it’s still a lot of cash compared to the likes of a Suzuki Hayabusa.
There is no getting away from the fact that the BMW K1300S is a big bike – with a 228kg dry weight, it is never going to be a race-designed lightweight. However, the clever Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA II) system does a great job of hiding that weight. The suspension has nine potential settings to cover solo riding, pillion and both settings with luggage. It works brilliantly. The slightly numb front end is better than it was previously thanks to lighter Duolever components. Just be sure to avoid the Continental Sport Attack tyres fitted to some – they are not up to the best rubber.
Spec up a BMW K1300S with all of the options BMW has to offer and it’s going to be an expensive machine. There are some must-haves though and the ESA II at £617 is one of them as it offers a great deal of adjustment and takes the guesswork out of suspension adjustment. ABS is another one. After that there are some lovely choices. Heated grips, hard luggage, Akrapovic exhaust, onboard computer and a quickshifter. Most are worth a look although we would give the quickshifter a miss as although it works just fine, it seems out of place on a bike like this.
2009 BMW K1300GT
With 160bhp on tap from a slightly detuned version of the K1300 inline four-cylinder motor the performance of the big BMW K1300GT is a bit startling. You just don’t expect something so large to move with such a sense of urgency. The motor has huge torque reserves and almost any gear acceleration gives the ability of blitzing past lines of traffic in an instant.
Few bikes shrug off winter better than a BMW motorcycle but it will still need regular attention to keep it looking shiny. The uprated shaft drive means less maintenance and expense than a chain. A few of the BMW K1200GT previous models seemed to have suffered from vibration and quite high oil consumption but the new engine should stop that happening.
It may cost a fair pile of cash at £12,240 but the BMW K1300GT does come fairly well stacked with comforts as standard. The options list is pretty comprehensive and it just depends on how deep your pockets are as to how many you fancy. If you opt ofr the £13,340 SE model then a fair amount of kit gets chucked in for a bit of a discount over choosing them individually. The list includes heated seat, grips, high screen, cruise control and ESA II.
There are so many bikes out there that don’t handle and ride as well as the BMW K1300GT that are supposed to be ‘sports-focussed’ bikes it’s simply astounding how easy the BMW K1300GT is to chuck around. Most of the thanks to this can go to the wonderfully easy to use ESA II electrically adjustable suspension which can be tweaked from ultra-soft Comfort through to the much tauter Sport setting.
The BMW K1300GT has got the lot – either standard or as options. Hard panniers are standard and massive, the front screen is electrically adjustable, there are heated grips and heated seats which are independently adjustable for rider and pillion and get almost too hot. It’s easily possible to cover some seriously big miles of the GT at an almost ludicrous pace and in perfect comfort.
2009 BMW F800R
The 798cc twin lump delivers a sweet mixture of low rpm torque and accessible horsepower. The harder you work it the more the body produces adrenaline. Fuelling is perfect around town and will return a very pleasing 54mpg even when ragged on back roads. But with this excitement, from 5000rpm and on, comes niggling vibrations though the bars and pegs. You get used to this.
Very, very competitively priced to start with and there’s the benefit of BMW machines retaining high resale figures even with high mileage, but only if the service record is up to date.
One of the best put together BMW bikes we’ve seen. Everything fits perfectly and the coatings, paint and parts are sweet. But there again most bikes are like this from new. We all assume BMW has a reputation for quality, but there have been a few more complaints over the past 3-4 years, which BMW said it will address. On the plus side the engine is a known quantity because it figures in four other models and is well sorted now.
The feel of the BMW F800R is taut and precise. The chassis is stiff and the suspension has been developed to work in conjunction with the chassis. Under braking and through the turn the bike is settled and feels compact, solid and… great. The rear shock is a little soft for pillion use but adjustments made (spring preload, damping) actually work. Goodly amount of steering lock and low-ish seat height make the F800R a good traffic-buster.
To keep the cost down (at £5925 it is relatively cheap for a fun-time BMW) the F800R is as basic as its competitors, suspension and stunning front brakes aside. But if you’ve got the money to spare there’s a ruck of optional extras and accessories available from onboard computer, tyre pressure monitor, ABS, higher/lower seat option (FOC), fly screen, belly pan, panniers etc, etc.
2008 BMW F650GS
BMW F650GS’s F800 series-derived twin is a sweetie. Softer cams trade off peak power for a more gentle and progressive power delivery (and a learner-friendly 34bhp version is also available at no extra cost). The result is peak power is down from 85bhp to a still more-than-useful 71bhp and with a healthy wodge of more low-down grunt. It’s both flexible and novice-friendly, yet with top end to be truly versatile.
Although BMW quality in recent years has occasionally come under fire, it’s generally still far better than most and there have so far been no specific problems reported with the F650GS either.
With more basic, shorter-travel suspension than its F800GS brother and a smaller front wheel the F650GS has both a low, novice-friendly seat height (and an even lower 765mm low seat kit is available as an extra) plus more predictable and secure road-orientated handling. From the saddle, the biggest surprise was how reminiscent of the old F650 the new F650GS is. The view, posture, ergonomics and sheer simplicity it is to ride all remind very much of the old single, as does the idiot-proof flatness of the power delivery.
Although undeniably less flashy than the F800GS, the F650GS is also £1200 cheaper, is arguably the better road bike and, as such, represents excellent value for money.
To keep the F650GS’s price (and weight) down it has a more basic spec than its F800GS big brother. So there are alloys in place of wires, steel not alloy handlebars, no bash plate and less bodywork including a lower screen, not to mention the less sophisticated suspension. That said, it’s go everything it needs, its typical BMW quality, bang up to date and a vast range of extras is available.
2008 BMW F650GS
2009 BMW S1000RR
Top marks are not just for the high bhp output alone, but also for the clever electronics. One part of which is the performance mode selection switch where four choices are manually selectable. ‘Rain’ mode caps power to 150bhp and reduces the torque output, it also smoothes the throttle response. ‘Sport’ is for dry road use; ‘Race’ mode is used in conjunction with treaded race tyres at a track day; and ‘Slick’ mode is for use with slick racing tyres. These final three modes all deliver the full 190bhp and torque output, but throttle response becomes more and more direct. As you’d expect with a claimed 190bhp at the crankshaft, the S1000RR is a serious powerhouse. But with rider aids like power mode selection and the optional ABS and DTC traction control, it is also a very safe bike to ride fast.
The standard S1000RR has a 2009 list price of £10,950, which neatly places the BMW midway of the Japanese competition eg Yamaha’s R1 has an official price of £11,120, and the GSX-R1000 £9921. The S1000RR Sport version comes with quickshifter, DTC traction control and race ABS as standard for £12,235.
Sachs suspension doesn’t yet have the kudos of Ohlins, WP and Showa, but the massive 46mm front units and single rear shock are excellent. BMW have also made suspension adjustment very easy by numbering the suspension adjustment range and colour coding it, and all it takes is the owner’s handbook to cross reference a suspension set up to suit the rider and conditions. You can also use the key as a screwdriver to make adjustments to the damping adjusters. On track the bike turns, stops and gives the rider so much confidence they will push harder and harder – and the BMW will take it in its stride.
BMW has recently admitted quality control on its bikes hasn’t exactly been top notch over the past five years. With this in mind BMW, have gone overboard with mileage testing – 300 pre-production S1000RR have been used for testing, which includes track testing on circuits worldwide. Every new component has been tested for every possible scenario, from wet weather to vibration destruction. The one problem to come from the S1000RR’s launch was some front brake discs warped. The problem was traced to the discs not being the correct thickness.
Easy to adjust suspension, Brembo radial front brake calipers, Bosch electronics all come together in a sorted package. The dash system doubles up as a lap timer. Optional extras make the S1000RR complete, like the Racing ABS and DTC traction control and BMW’s own quick shifter system. You can buy the ABS system for £785 and the quick shift unit separately, but DTC has to used in conjunction with Race ABS for it to work (£1199 for the two).
2010 BMW R1200RT
The new twin-cam engine is derived from the BMW HP2 Sport and new in the RT for 2010. The motor gives the same 110bhp total output as the old bike but it accelerates faster, the fuel injection is crisper and the bike has more instant grunt when going for those 70mph-plus overtakes. It’s never exciting but it does the job intended perfectly.
Build quality is often hard to rate on a motorcycle but with the BMW R1200RT it’s easy. The paint quality is deep and well lacquered even if you can only choose from four different shades of grey, and the fit of all those panels is millimetre perfect and there’s never any vibration from the panels.
This bike will lean over way further than you expected it to and let you carve through back roads defying a bike of this size. This is no sports bike, a GS makes it feel light, but you’ll be amazed how smooth it will arc its way on some truly demanding roads that would have a GTR or FJR running wide and looking for run-off beyond cliff faces.
At £11,775 the base model bike is great value as it comes well equipped with everything you need to cross-continents. But as most people spec up the SE version with almost every box ticked and this has consistently been the UK’s best-selling touring bike then we’d have to say it’s great value for such a huge hunk of metal
Spec up the SE version and there’s enough options to make a BMW car driver proud. The new 2010 bike comes with an option for an Ipod or MP3 connection system which sits in the right-hand fairing pocket. It uses a neat wheel on the left thumb to operate and is very simple to use. You can also get a heated seat, heated grips, tyre pressure sensors and adjust the seat height and gear lever. And let’s not forget the ESA II electronically adjustable suspension which lets the bike waft along with a pillion or firm up spring and damping at the touch of a button. It also gets an electronically adjustable screen as standard that will keep the wind off all but the tallest riders. And if that’s not enough then you also get traction control!
2010 BMW R1200GS Adventure
Where it lacked power now it has it, drive it on and there’s still that annoying hole for emissions around 4500rpm (they all do that mister), but it barks after that. The exhaust definitely sounds more aftermarket than manufacturer standard but is in no way offensive. And on the gas the whole experience revs quicker, cleaner and it’s faster at the top-end yet it still retains that incredible 400-mile tank range.
And where the older single cam model used to feel like it was hitting a brick wall under acceleration after 80mph, the new one pushes its heft through that aerodynamic barrier with a little extra shove.
At the basic price this is a hell of a lot of bike for the cash. It is one of the greatest mile eaters that money can buy and if you approve of the looks then we reckon its one of the coolest motorcycles on the road today. But are you man enough?
Like the RT it also gets the ESA2 electronically adjustable suspension which blesses it with beautiful ride quality and comes with sport, comfort, normal and two off-road modes which also adjust the amount of traction control you have. Off road the bike allows you to have some slides without the aggressive traction cutting in. But it’s on the road where the bike will be ridden mostly and a well ridden GS Adventure can handle twisty backroads once you learn to trust the feeling of the suspension and tyres. And on motorways you can lord it looking into lorry windows while wafting along.
They’re well built but many owners complain of the bike’s using oil and there have been some problems with generators in the past. But this is a new engine so all that should be in the past and BMW have made massive steps to up their build quality and reliabilitiy. We’ve ran three bikes in the last three years and have never had a problem with any of them over 28,000 miles.
The new ESAII suspension is a big improvement over the old system and the bike also comes with a height adjustable seat. You can spec the bike up with tyre pressure monitors, heated grips, smaller indicators, LED spot lights, panniers and a sports exhaust. BMW dealers we’ve spoken to say that most bikes bought are fully specced up with every option box ticked.
