BMW R 1150R
The R1100R was a huge success story for BMW, with 53,000 sold in six years since 1994. So BMW has high hopes for the new 1150cc model that was introduced in 2001. Bringing naked Monster-style cool to the staid BMW touring image, the flat-twin, four-valve engine enjoys a 5bhp power increase on the old 1100 and now develops 85bhp. The torque curve shows that the new engine is beefier through the entire speed range, with more than 66 lb/ft of torque consistently available between 3000 and 6500rpm, significantly improving acceleration. The increase is attributable to the engine?s higher capacity and the digital engine management. However, 50 per cent of the power increase has been made possible by a new exhaust and silencer system manufactured from chrome-plated stainless steel. |
Another notable feature of the R1150R is the upgraded six-speed gearbox. The standard top gear is ?shorter? and more dynamic (compared with the five-speed unit of the previous model) but a ?longer? sixth gear is available as an option. The longer gear is intended for more comfortable touring and for use as a kind of overdrive to aid fuel economy. The BMW Telelever front wheel suspension can now be geared to the rider?s individual style, or to compensate for varying payloads. The newly developed EVO front brake boosts stopping power by no less than 20 per cent and allows ABS as an option. Additionally, the R1150R features a two-piece front mudguard, cast aluminium wheels with five double spokes, a 20.4-litre capacity fuel tank giving an improved range of approximately 225 miles, two-piece saddle with a rider height of 800mm (31.5in) and wider handlebars. As you would expect from BMW, a full range of dedicated luggage and accessories is available for the R1150R, which comes in a choice of three colours: Atlanta blue metallic; red metallic and night black. |