BMW K 1200 S superbike production starts

On 1 June, production of BMW's new K1200 S high performance superbike started
at the BMW motorcycle plant in Berlin. However, the motorcycles currently
manufactured will not go to customers but will be used for internal purposes
including training and to perfect all processes to ensure the highest level of
quality when the new model is officially launched in September.

The K1200 S is a new concept sports bike from BMW Motorrad and the second
machine (after the R1200 GS launched in March) to reflect the new design
philosophy of creating new motorcycles with more power, lighter in weight and
with increased agility.

The sporting potential of the K1200 S can be easily seen from its technical
specification. The 4-cylinder, in-line 1157cc capacity engine generates an
output of 123kW (167 bhp) at 10,250 rpm. A highest torque figure of 130Nm is
achieved at 8,250 rpm. In addition, more than 70 per cent of maximum torque is
available from just 3,000 rpm. However, the overriding target for the engine
developers was to achieve sports-type characteristics that would ensure
rideable and fully controllable performance for the road.

The valves of the dual-camshaft engine are operated by light and rigid cam
followers. With a bore/stroke ratio of 59 x 79mm, the engine is a short-stroke
unit. Two balancing shafts in the horizontally-divided cylinder crankcase are
made of light alloy - to ensure a distribution of masses and low-vibration
running.

To achieve a flat design for the crankcase, the K1200 S has been fitted with
dry sump lubrication. This permits an extremely low siting of the engine (there
is no oil sump) and with the cylinder bank angled forwards to 55 degrees has
helped to establish the machine's low centre of gravity.

What is unique, for a production bike in this class, is the 'cassette
transmission' construction of the integrated 6-speed gearbox.

Suspension and chassis technical highlights are the Duolever and electronically
adjustable suspension. The Duolever resembles a link square made up of two
virtually parallel longitudinal links which are mounted in the frame so they
can swivel and permit a precise up-and-down movement of the front wheel. This
is mounted in an extremely rigid component, the so-called wheel carrier - a
light component cast from high-strength aluminium alloy which is connected to
the longitudinal links via two ball joints and performs the steering action. In
turn, a longitudinal link connected to the central spring strut is responsible
for suspension and damping. The benefits of this system are extremely high
rigidity, combined with low weight, and an ideal wheel and lift curve.

With the ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) option, yet another BMW
innovation enters production. The spring preload and damping can be
electronically adjusted at the press of a button which is conveniently sited on
the handlebars.

This machine's electrics are also extremely advanced. A whole series of
functions is facilitated by the so-called CAN bus technology, which is simpler
than conventional wiring systems and offers full diagnostics capability.

Together with a catalytic converter, sports Integral ABS and maintenance-free
shaft drive, the K1200 S represents a unique addition to the sports
motorcycling market.

The K1200 S will be available from BMW Motorrad dealers soon after the public
premiere at the INTERMOT motorshow in mid September. The first machines to
arrive in the UK will be the two multi-colour variants of indigo blue
metallic/alpine white, and sun yellow/white aluminium metallic/dark graphite
metallic. Two single-colour paint finishes (indigo blue metallic and granite
grey metallic) will be available at a later stage.

Ends

Customers can call BMW's information line: 0800 777 155 or visit
www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk

For technical data see table attached to download document.

For further press information please contact one of the following:

Andy Dukes / Kylie Maebus 08000 131 282
Tony Jakeman 01344 480185