First place is spoken for – by the new 2-cylinder engine.
BMW Motorrad’s existing 1,170-cc 2-cylinder boxer engine has
undergone numerous modi²cations to make it suitable for use
in the R 1200 S. The result is the sportiest 2-cylinder engine
that BMW Motorrad has ever built. It’s not just the 122 bhp
(90 kW) of power that will impress, but the engine’s responsive-
ness, right across a rev range that extends up to 8,800 rpm. And
to ensure the overtaking power is there when you need it most,
it delivers a maximum torque of 112 Nm at 6,800 rpm. The use
of the latest lightweight construction techniques throughout
means that the overall weight has been signi²cantly reduced,
despite the incorporation of an equalizing shaft to eliminate
vibrations. The BMS-K engine electronics, which replace a
separate choke, improve performance and cut fuel consumption,
thanks to the data provided by an extensive array of sensors.
Knock sensors and an enhanced twin-spark ignition facilitate
cleaner combustion, resulting in smoother low-rev engine
running at constant speeds.
Built to perform. BMW Motorrad engineers don’t do things by
halves. And when it comes to delivering on the sporting promise
of the “S” in the R 1200 S name, they’ve really surpassed
themselves. The modi²cations made to the 2-cylinder engine
are all designed to maximize power delivery and responsiveness.
The addition of a third camshaft bearing reduces the engines’
vulnerability to vibratory fatigue, while the sodium-cooled intake
valves are hollow and therefore lighter. Valve gear and piston
conrods have been strengthened, and the intake air duct has
been enlarged. Precise valve timing ensures the most effective
possible use is made of the available cylinder capacity, while
raised pistons crowns help increase the compression ratio to
12.5:1. Sensitivity of response at part-load is ensured by the
special progressive kinematics, which control the generously-
sized throttle valves.
Everything about is says sport. The various technical fea-
tures of the BMW R 1200 S’s gearbox combine to offer riders
numerous advantages. The helical gears engage particularly
softly, reducing running noise, and gear changes are initiated
using a special sliding sleeve; combined with the optimized
selection mechanism, this means riders gear changes can be
made with minimum effort and maximum precision – perfect for
sports riding.
Fair play – brake and wait for the others to catch up.
The BMW R 1200 S is equipped with the powerful and re-
sponsive BMW Motorrad brake system. The two ³oating
320-millimetre brake discs on the front wheel are actuated by
4-piston calipers. Steel ³ex brake lines ensure the biting point
remains consistent even under extended braking. A special
lightweight version of BMW Motorrad ABS is also available as
an optional extra, adding just 1.5 kilograms to the motorcycle’s
total weight. This features enhanced diagnostics, and can be
deactivated for track riding.
Peak performance. The shaft drive. The R 1200 S uses
BMW Motorrad’s tried-and-tested shaft drive design to connect
the rear wheel to the clutch. Incorporated into the Paralever
system, its low weight contributes to the R 1200 S’s sporty
responsiveness and performance. It is extremely durable and
requires very little maintenance.
122 bhp of racing ambition.
x 1,000 rpm
9
8
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2
1
0 40 80 120 160 200 240 km/h
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
kW
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
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40
20
kW
Nm
Nm
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 x 1,000 rpm
