2013 BMW HP4 Onboard Video Review
Take a trip through the twisties with the HP4
It has been done many times before, but I’m going to continue pouring the accolades for BMW’s HP4. This beastly, high performance version of BMW’s already impressive S1000RR takes that platform to another level with its sophisticated traction control, ABS, ride modes, forged wheels, striking graphics and, most notably, Dynamic Damping Control (DDC). It’s a system I can’t harp about enough because it truly represents a turning point when motorcycle suspension systems transition from analog to digital.
DDC truly works best on public roads, where surface conditions can vary greatly compared to the smooth surfaces of the racetrack. In this bonus footage from our street portion of 2013 Exotic Superbike Shootout, climb onboard with me as I take the HP4 for a spin through the twisties. Hear me attempt to tame the 172 horses while simultaneously highlighting the many great features that helped contribute to the BMW’s overall victory against two of the most exotic literbikes in the world.
Troy's been riding motorcycles and writing about them since 2006, getting his start at Rider Magazine. From there, he moved to Sport Rider Magazine before finally landing at Motorcycle.com in 2011. A lifelong gearhead who didn't fully immerse himself in motorcycles until his teenage years, Troy's interests have always been in technology, performance, and going fast. Naturally, racing was the perfect avenue to combine all three. Troy has been racing nearly as long as he's been riding and has competed at the AMA national level. He's also won multiple club races throughout the country, culminating in a Utah Sport Bike Association championship in 2011. He has been invited as a guest instructor for the Yamaha Champions Riding School, and when he's not out riding, he's either wrenching on bikes or watching MotoGP.
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A bike that give you a big smile on your face, has to be good :-) I love my ZZR1400, but I shalll give the BMW HP4 a try next spring.
wow! he's riding that Hp4 with some serious skill! or atleast he looks incredibly skilled to my novice eyes