Manufacturer BMW Motorrad Predecessor R1100S Engine 1170 cc flat twin | Production 2006–2007 Successor BMW HP2 Sport | |
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Bore / stroke 101 mm × 73 mm (4.0 in × 2.9 in) | ||
The BMW R1200S is a luxury sports motorcycle produced by BMW Motorrad from 2006 to 2007.
Compared to the BMW R1100S which it succeeded, the R1200S was 13 kg (29 lb) lighter, and (with a compression ratio raised from 11.3:1 to 12.5:1) it was 25% more powerful with a "hexhead" motor rated at 122 horsepower (91 kW). Much of the weight saving was due to a new trellis-type frame which replaced the massive alloy frame of the R1100S.
Despite these refinements, overall the R1100S was perhaps the more successful design. Motor Cycle News said of the R1200S: "As an oddball track motorcycle it works, but as an accomplished all-rounder it falls short of the standards set by the R1100S that preceded it." However, countering that perspective in favor of the R1200S include superior handling, improved braking, higher power output, greater ground clearance, sport ergonomics and updated instrumentation. Factory options enhanced the advantage, including front and rear Ohlins shock absorbers, expandable locking luggage, a 6" rear wheel accommodating a size 180 tire, heated grips and solo tail piece.
HP2 Sport
In 2008 the R1200S was superseded by the double overhead camshaft HP2 Sport.At 178 kg (dry) and 128 hp, the HP2 is even lighter and more powerful than the R1200S upon which it is based; (and compared to the R1100S, the HP2 is 30 kg lighter and 30 hp more powerful). The HP2's dohc engine was the most powerful "oilhead" design before BMW adopted liquid cooling for some of its flat twins in 2014.