Motorcycle specifications BMWK 1200 R 2008 R-obotoid

a bike like the K 1200 S, teeming with so many innovations, would be a shame to leave it on its own. In Bavaria, the grey matter gets restless, and you don't stop once you're off to a good start. Hence this simple idea, used time and again to develop a wicked roadster: take a sportbike, strip it down, give it a facelift... and here's a K 1200 R, which doesn't go unnoticed.
Heralded by the factory as a high-performance machine, this robot-faced roadster boasts all the positive qualities, riding safety and technical features of the K 1200 S. The transmission and chassis have been reworked, with a few minor adjustments. In terms of dynamics, the K 1200 R surpasses the already high level of the S. The BMW Duolever fork is slightly less raked and the offset is a little shorter, promising an improvement in already excellent handling.
As for the engine, only the air flow has been modified. Maximum power is only 4 hp lower than on the K 1200 S, giving an impressive 163 hp - making the K 1200 R quite simply the most powerful roadster in production. The torque curve is more or less identical over wide ranges, with a similar maximum value. Gear ratios are also identical, only the rear-wheel ratio is slightly shorter.
The bodywork dimensions at the fuel tank and rear are new, as is the striking double headlamp in matt chrome. Only a small bubble covers the front section above the headlight. Despite its small dimensions, it is intended to offer the rider astonishing protection against the wind. What's most astonishing is the R2-D2 face. shocking? Just as well!
The seat, identical in shape to that of the K 1200 S, is slightly narrower at the front. The handlebar trigger guard has been reworked, so that the rider stands up straighter. A glance at the instrument cluster reveals other differences from the sporty model: a different layout for the tachometer and rev counter (taken from the R 1200 GS), as well as new black numbers on a white background.
BM has not forgotten those who love to travel. The K 1200 R can be fitted with a range of luggage kits, from tank bags to a full-blown adventurer's kit.
In a much "meaner" vein, the factory has announced the creation of a "Power Cup", specially dedicated to this roadster. It will follow in the footsteps of the "Boxer Cup" and, like it, will serve as a prelude to major sporting events.

the 1150 Rockster was already a forerunner. The K 1200 R raises the tone. Decidedly, at BM, there's now only one watchword: "OSONS!"

i once read in a car magazine (what the hell!?!) testing an Audi RS6; the journalist wrote that the engine was so available and powerful that you could shift straight into 6th gear in the morning and drive all day without changing gear, with the same strong, inexhaustible breath.

It's the same with the K 1200 R engine. It has so much power that it makes the gearbox almost obsolete. But since we're on a motorcycle and riding is first and foremost a pleasure, we're happy to play with the gearbox to get the best out of our accelerations. On the whole, the engine's throbbing doesn't have any unpleasant resonances, although the boiler does vibrate a little between 7 and 8,000 rpm, but not outside this range.
The riding position of this roadster is slightly more comfortable than that of its cousin, the S, thanks to a slightly more upright torso, and more comfortable when riding hard. In this game or on pleasure rides, the BMW doesn't require arms of steel. Its recalibrated geometry makes it lively and easy to drive. This has not affected the K's stability, which remains imperial.

more daring than the K 1200 S that (just) preceded itthe R recovers all its qualities while offering more style and access to the clan of big, spirited roadsters. Its singular styling may disturb, and its price may make you cough (especially with the languid list of options), but its dynamic qualities can't fail to seduce. And when it comes to looks, you're in for a treat.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)