2011 BMW R 1200 R / Classic

The wraps have come off the new BMW R 1200 R and R 1200 R Classic motorcycles, ahead of their EICMA Milan show unveilings. Could this have been to avoid the all-too-common leaks that occur before motor shows?

It's probably more likely that these models will be overlooked when the golden gates of EICMA swing open, as they present more of a mild refresh than all-new models.

So what's new? BMW's updated roadster models pack a little more punch with the update, thanks to the adoption of the twin cam boxer engine from the R 1200 GS and GT models, hiking power to 110hp (81kW) at 7750rpm and bringing torque to 119Nm at 6000rpm.

The updated 1170cc air-cooled engine also raises the rev ceiling, with the rev limit set at 8500rpm up from 8000rpm.

On top of the engine changes, BMW has given both models a nip and tuck in the visual department, with the R 1200 R Classic bringing a somewhat retro look to the range.

Where the BMW R 1200 R gets cast alloy wheels, the Classic comes with spoked wheels and chrome mirrors, and both models get shorter exhaust pipes; brushed stainless steel for the R 1200 R and chrome plated items for the R 1200 R Classic. The exhaust systems also get an electronically controlled exhaust flap "for a superior powerful sound". New hydraulic reservoirs with a smoked glass look add a little more interest to the design, and the cylinder heads have a new two bolt look, replacing the four bolt.

Changes to the bikes' front ends take the form of an enlarged stand pipe on the Telelever suspension, up from 35mm to 41mm, and the instrument clusters have been redesigned as well, incorporating two large round dials.

Like all good German vehicles, safety is a high priority -- though in this case you have to pay for it. Electronic suspension (ESA) allows adjustment of rear preload on the fly, which is good if you pick up a large hitchhiker and need some more rear end support. Then there are anti-lock brakes (ABS) which should be standard, but what can you do… Another factory option is automatic stability control (ASC), with the traction control system designed to improve stability in low grip conditions.

There's also other bits and pieces that you can spend money on, such as panniers, tank bag, Akrapovic end cans and plenty more.

The new BMW R 1200 R and Classic models don't push the envelope in terms of design or propulsion, but they do add more fascination to the German motorcycle maker's beefy street bikes.

2011 BMW R 1200 R  / R 1200 R Classic features:

• Clear differentiation between the R 1200 R and R 1200 R Classic in the form of characteristic colour concepts and equipment features.
• New dynamic drive, now with double overhead camshafts in each cylinder.
• Maximum torque raised to 119 Nm at 6000 rpm, and rated power raised to 81 kW (110 hp) at 7750 rpm.
• Maximum engine speed now raised from 8000 to 8500 rpm for an even wider utilisable speed range.
• Perceptible improvements to torque values for even greater roadster pleasure on country roads.
• Spontaneous response with optimised controllability and clearly improved load-alteration effects.
• Cylinder-head covers now with two instead of the previous four mounting bolts and a new, dynamic styling.
• Shorter, sportier rear silencer in brushed (R 1200 R) or chromium-plated (R 1200 R Classic) stainless steel.
• Electronically controlled exhaust flap for a superior powerful sound.
• Cast light alloy wheels (R 1200 R).
• Wire spoke wheels with light alloy flat collar rims (R 1200 R Classic).
• ESA (electronic suspension adjustment) (optional factory fit).
• BMW Motorrad integral ABS in the partially integral version (optional factory fit).
• Automatic stability control ASC (optional factory fit).
• Redesigned cockpit with two round analogue instruments.
• New hydraulic reservoirs with a smoked glass look.
• Extensive range of optional equipment and tailored accessories at the familiarly high BMW standards.

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