BMW Introduces New Models at Intermot - Motorcycle.com

BMW has been on an intense mission in the motorcycle sector in an attempt to expand its model line, and in turn, market share. BMW Motorrad President, Hendrik von Kuenheim spoke of their “...Continuing offensive with undiminished momentum.”

Contributing to this drive is the new K1300 line – a sporty, dynamic and versatile bunch, offering a wide spectrum of performance-infused bikes catering to a variety of riders. This reaffirms BMW’s objective by making motorcycles more people will want to ride. After the HP2 Sport and now seeing the S1000RR and K1300s, our only question is – “Why didn’t they do it sooner?”

K1300S

The successor to the K1200S, the much-updated and upgraded K1300S is officially the most powerful production BMW motorcycle to date. Engine displacement is up to 1,293cc from 1,157cc thanks to an increase in bore and stroke. Combined with a stratospheric 13.0:1 compression ratio, the S is said to pump out 175 hp and 103 ft-lbs of torque at the crankshaft, with those numbers being reached at 9,250 rpm and 8,250 rpm, respectively. Torque has been increased over 7 ft-lbs throughout the 2,000-8,000 rpm range. A revised exhaust system uses a shorter muffler with electronically controlled flap management and a three-way catalytic converter.

The S also offers HP Gearshift Assistance, which allows upshifting without use of the clutch or interrupting the power delivery. Traction control is an option. All-new bodywork is claimed to route wind around a rider more efficiently. Weighing in at 560 lbs full of fuel, the S tips the scales about 20 lbs less than Suzuki’s tank-full Hayabusa, while offering about 20 less horsepower - just to put things into perspective for you.

K1300R

BMW is marketing the R as “The most powerful naked bikes of all time.” The same 1,293cc powerplant and running gear found the S is used in the R, although slightly modified for the requirements of this large-displacement standard. Due to these changes, the R maxes out at 173 hp and 103 ft-lbs of torque. The R also shares the same basic suspension DNA with the S, but has been lowered and stretched out from the previous model to ensure that its 536-lb (tank-empty) stature has optimum balance and agility.

The R also boasts BMW’s new take on turnsignal switches. Instead of a left-side button to indicate a left turn and a similar one on the right, plus a third switch to cancel them, the new Ks all have a single switch that is operated by a rider’s left hand – just like the rest of the world (except Harley)!.The R can also be ordered with the optional HP Gearshift Assistance, the next generation of ESA and ASC (Anti-Slip Control).

K1300GT

Although the GT also shares the same powerplant and running gear as the aforementioned 1300s, it is a different beast indeed. Intended for what BMW is calling ‘Dynamic Touring,’ the 1,293cc inline-four engine is tuned for 160 hp and 99 ft-lbs of torque.

The riding position is much more upright than the sportier S and R and also comes with a larger front fairing and hard side bags for storage. No doubt the GT will allow for long, curve-cutting rides with more power and style than the K1200GT with an increase in torque, particularly in the low to mid-range over its predecessor.

Its windshield is electrically adjustable over a 4-inch range and can be repositioned on its mounts to suit riders of various heights. Like all K bikes, a lower seat is available from the factory. The GT’s seat can be set at two different heights, and its handlebars are adjustable over a 1.6-inch range. All the usual options – traction control, ESA, tire-pressure monitoring, heated grips, etc. – can also be found on the GT.

Related Reading
2009 BMW S1000RR – A Closer Look
2009 BMW S1000RR Preview
BMW S1000RR Forum