The HP2 enduro - another sensational BMW

Twenty-five years after it created the 'big enduro' off-road genre, BMW
Motorrad will launch the HP2 enduro ('High Performance 2-cylinder') - an
uncompromising, sporting and exceptionally light road-legal off-road motorcycle.

The HP2 is the first model in a new, independent category of motorcycles being
developed by BMW Motorrad. Called the HP High Performance series, this new
range of motorcycles will be extremely special, exclusive and authentic - and
they will remain relatively rare. The price of the machines will be determined
by their outstanding range of features; a much higher level of product
substance; and comparatively small production volume.

The HP2 is the most powerful and dynamic off-road boxer twin yet - and will be
the most powerful enduro bike in the marketplace. When ridden on rough terrain
the HP2 capitalises on the benefits of the boxer concept and its low centre of
gravity. But with agile handling, low weight and a high-performance power
unit, it also offers supreme on-road riding capability.

Consistent lightweight engineering of all components on the HP2 has resulted in
an overall dry weight of just 175 kilos. Along with ideal rider ergonomics,
this guarantees superior agility and easy control on even the toughest
terrain. When combined with the low centre of gravity of the Boxer engine,
excellent balance, unparalleled smoothness and powerful acceleration from low
engine speeds, the HP2 is superior to even the toughest single-cylinder
machines on demanding tracks.

To highlight the sporting enduro qualities of the new HP2, BMW Motorrad is
supporting a private racing team, which will enter HP2s in off-road events such
as the German Cross Country Championship (GCC). Outside Germany, the HP2 has
been entered in the Baja 500 and the Baja 1000 races, and there are plans to
participate in the prologue of the Erzberg Race in Austria. BMW Motorrad will
supply the machines, and support and service private teams at these events.
Other races are also being considered.

Briefly, the HP2's key features are as follows:

... 1170cc flat-twin engine (as per the R1200 GS) but with an increased
maximum output of 77kW (105 bhp). Maximum torque remains unchanged at 115Nm
(85 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm

... new silencer construction almost 2 kilos lighter than before (the HP2 is
not designed to carry hard luggage)

... the frame's tubular space-frame structure is based on the R900 R racing
machines used by BMW works teams from 1999-2001 in the Dakar Rally

... upside-down telescopic forks with 270mm of spring travel. (This level of
spring travel cannot be provided by conventional Telelever configuration)

... redesigned Paralever, now 30mm longer than on the GS

... the world's first spring/damper system running exclusively on air.
Weighing just under 2.3 kilos the air/spring damper system is approximately 2
kilos lighter than a conventional component

... cross-spoke wheels for the toughest conditions. The front wheel features
a 305mm semi-floating single-disc brake with floating calliper. At the rear is
a 265mm single-disc swing-calliper brake. The HP2 is not presently offered
with ABS

... the fuel tank is made of extra-tough, semi-transparent (for viewing fuel
level) polyethylene and has a capacity of 13 litres

... a seat height of 920mm. A lower seat (900mm) is available as special
equipment

... on-board network with CAN-bus technology (Controller Area Network) as per
the R1200 GS

... instrument cluster as per the R1200 GS but with no rev counter. As an
additional display, the rider can select the number of operating hours the
motorcycle has run (important for changing the air filter at appropriate
intervals when riding off-road on dusty tracks).

... side components on the tank and front wheel mudguard are made from
fully-coloured, grained plastic (without paint) so that scratches and marks
remain virtually invisible

... a wide range of special equipment for retrofitting is available for
customisation, allowing the owner to broaden the HP2's range of features and
equipment.

The worldwide market launch of the HP2 will be in September. Further details,
including the on-the-road price will be released shortly.

Ends

For further press information please contact one of the following:

Andy Dukes / Lauren Haslehurst 08000 131 282
Tony Jakeman 01344 480 185