Looking at motorcycles, inventive engineers have also tried time and again to offer the enthusiast the thrilling concept of a straight-six power unit. But while a few engines in straight-six configuration have indeed been fitted in motor­cycles both lengthwise and crosswise, the straight-six has never really made a genuine breakthrough neither on production models nor in motorcycle racing.

Depending on the way the engine was fitted, six cylinders in-line inevitably made the engine either very long or very wide, creating disadvantages in terms of the running gear, weight distribution, and the centre of gravity. A further drawback was much higher engine weight usually setting off the benefits of extra engine power.

The BMW Concept 6 now proves that a straight-six, benefiting from the most advanced construction and production technology, may offer not only unique prestige, but also a supreme standard of riding dynamics.

The new BMW straight-six will further expand the K-Series in the foreseeable future. The first model to be introduced will be an innovative and luxurious BMW touring machine. Reflecting the tradition of the BMW K-Series, this will of course be a genuine top-of-the-line product.

Highly compact and dynamic six-cylinder.

The starting point for this dynamic introduction of the straight-six in the new Concept 6 from BMW Motorrad is of course the extremely compact form and configuration of the engine. The power unit is approximately 100 mm or 4″ slimmer than all former straight-six production engines and only a bit wider than a large-capacity straight-four with conventional technology.

The reduction in width is achieved in particular by the slightly over-square bore: stroke ratio with relatively long stroke and very small gaps between cylinders. To achieve this very compact configuration with minimum width, the electrical ancillaries and their drive components are positioned behind the crankshaft in the open space above the transmission.

High-tech lightweight construction in all areas serves to make the power unit relatively light from the outset, important components in this context being the two hollow-drilled camshafts and the very light connecting rods. The perfect compensation of masses ensured by the configuration and layout of the engine avoids the need for a balance shaft and its drive elements on the new straight-six, which again means lower weight and enhanced running smoothness.

In its layout, the straight-six featured in the Concept 6 follows the well-known straight-four in the K 1300 model series, again coming with cylinders tilted to the front by 55o. This ensures not only a low centre of gravity, but also very good weight balance as an element essential above all under sporting conditions for precise feeling and clear feedback from the front. A further advantage is that the tilted engine provides extra space for the aerodynamically positioned intake manifold directly above the engine and allows ideal configuration of the frame profiles following the flow of power.

The straight-six featured in the BMW Motorrad Concept 6 comes with dry sump lubrication. Apart from greater reliability even under extreme conditions, dry sump technology serves to keep the crankcase particularly low and flat, with the engine being fitted lower down and masses concentrated around the centre of gravity. Doing without an oil sump, the engine may be positioned far lower than on a conventional layout.

The oil reservoir is provided by an oil tank integrated at the rear of the engine block. This avoids the need for a separate tank, again helping to make the entire power unit more compact and reduce weight to a minimum.

Maximum supremacy in running refinement and performance.

Designed and laid out as a straight-six, the engine also opens up new dimensions in motorcycling in terms of supremacy, power reserves, performance and running refinement.

Output of the new six-cylinder will be in approximately the same range as on BMW’s 1.3-litre straight-four power units. Torque, on the other hand, will be right at the top of the range, even in comparison with the largest motorcycle engines, such superior power and muscle coming inter alia from engine capacity of no less than 1.6 litres.

The engine’s power and performance characteristics are equally impressive, offering 130 Nm or 96 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm and at the same time revving up almost to 9,000 rpm – a dynamic potential quite unparalleled in the tourer segment. This alone qualifies the engine of the Concept 6 as the ideal power unit for a wide range of different motorcycles.

Environmental compatibility and all-round economy re-defined.

The Concept 6 shows the absolute supremacy of its six-cylinder drive system also in ecological and economic terms. Fuel consumption of this six-cylinder naturally equipped with a fully controlled catalytic converter is lower than on a comparable four-cylinder under normal touring conditions. The use of E-gas technology (ride-by-wire) then offers further potentials for enhanced fuel economy and riding dynamics throughout a wide range of different riding modes and conditions. And last but not least in this context, the straight-six power unit featured in the Concept 6 offers long inspection intervals through the use of cup tappets controlling the engine valves.

Dynamic and powerful design in Café Racer style.

Supremacy and dynamism are also borne out clearly by the thrilling design of the Concept 6 and, as usual, this project from BMW Motorrad is more than “just” the attempt to develop a motorcycle of a kind never seen before.

Working on Concept 6, the designers at BMW Motorrad have therefore focused yet again on technical function and quality and, in particular, the emotional element bringing together man and machine. Their rule, quite simply, is that a motorcycle must not only follow the laws of functionality, but also arouse emotion in all its facets. In a nutshell, therefore, the machine must be simply thrilling.

Precisely this is why the design of the Concept 6 focuses in particular on the powerful straight-six engine as the heart of the machine. Conceived as a mixture of classic and modern styling elements in motorcycle construction, the Concept 6, with its long front end and short rear, takes up the design language of the legendary Café Racer. Powerful and muscular, the body elements extend around the power unit finished in a special platinum colour, presenting the engine almost adoringly from every angle.

Smooth and soft lines ensure fully organic integration of the power unit within the machine, while at the same time they create a powerful, exciting and dynamic contrast to the sharply contoured front and rear ends.

The so-called Split Face, a well-known design element of the latest models from BMW Motorrad, extends smoothly from the front of the fairing all along the top of the fuel tank made of carbon-fibre, again confirming the high technological standard of the Concept 6 and forming an exciting contrast to the outer shell in aluminium with its white layers. The division into three sections created by the Split Face is further accentuated at the front by the LED headlight integrated longitudinally in the machine in its rod shape and by the slender LED rear light extending far up into the seat hump.

The powerful and supreme character of the Concept 6 is also underscored by the six-chamber exhaust system complete with sidepipes and the strong presence of the intake ducts again finished in platinum look. Aerodynamic components such as the twin-tipped engine spoiler and the air guide elements derived from the design of the new S 1000 RR Supersports, on the other hand, bridge the gap between functional and clearly visible technology, on the one hand, and the soft and smooth design of other body elements, on the other.

Innovative suspension technology and equipment

The suspension of the BMW Motorrad Concept 6 is built around a light-alloy bridge frame as well as Duolever and lightweight Paralever arms holding and guiding the wheels front and rear. Seventeen-inch HP forged wheels as well as the extra-large brake system with its six-piston fixed callipers emphasise the sporting look of the new machine and its high level of technology.

The outstanding supremacy of the Concept 6 and its drivetrain is also reflected by details such as the instrument panel intentionally kept in minimalist design but nevertheless completely equipped with all the instruments and gauges required. While a digital display performs its usual function of clearly presenting road speed, there is intentionally no rev counter on account of the supreme flow of power at all speeds. So instead of a conventional rev counter, a LED display shows the rider at all times how much torque is readily available whenever required.

The range of new products extends from the new, sporting DoubleR C o l l e c t i o n (suit, helmet, boots and gloves) for the BMW S 1000 RR and the Pant Cross together with the matching Jersey Cross for hard offroad riding through new materials such as SuperFabric® and BeCool™ all the way to the trendy and functional enhancement of products already lauded for their quality.

While the new Suit Rallye 3 comes with a new membrane structure featuring comfort mapping, the Gloves Rallye 3 stand out through their new high abrasion-resistant SuperFabric® material. The Boots Rallye GS Pro now feature a removable inner shoe for extra comfort and a pleasant climate within the boots.

The rainwear also comes with new materials, for example on the two-piece Rain Suit RainLock 2 and the single piece ProRain 3. The inner coated 2.5-layer laminate now makes the suits even easier and more convenient to put on and take off.

The Function Underwear Package has been enhanced once again to an even higher standard, adjusting body temperature perfectly to varying conditions and requirements. The Trousers City 2 and Trousers City 2 Denim have been upgraded in their style and fashion, naturally without neglecting the quality for which they are known so well. On the Boots AirFlow 3 additional AirTex inserts improve wearer comfort through even better circulation of air.

To find out more information on the 2010 Collection, feel free to download the PDF.

BMW S 1000 RR Superbike is powered by a brand new water-cooled four-cylinder inline power unit which outputs 193 horsepower at 13,000 rpm and revving up to a maximum speed of 14,200 rpm. Maximum torque of 82.5 lb-ft of torque comes at 9,750 rpm, while only weighing 455.3 pounds with a full tank of gas. All engine components are compact and light, limiting weight of the overall engine without ancillaries to 59.8 kg (131.8 lb).

BMW S 1000 RR can be equipped with ABS and Dynamic Traction Control systems. As a curiosity, the ABS system weighs only 5.51 lbs. The new S 1000 RR is the lightest machine of its caliber displacing 999 cc and featuring ABS brakes.

Optional features include Optional DTC Dynamic Traction Control in conjunction with Race ABS for optimum performance.

Oh…almost forgot about the asymmetrical headlights which drives crazy some of the beemer fans, even though we kinda dig it.

Every year, at Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, takes place a three-day event that reunites over 30,000 people in this mecca of BMW motorcycle fans. BMW Motorrad Division just issued a press release and photos that explain even better what goes on at this yearly special event.

Munich/Garmisch-Partenkirchen. “Once a year Garmisch-Partenkirchen is transformed into the mecca of BMW motorcycle fans – and so it is again this year,” announced the Head of BMW Motorrad Hendrik von Kuenheim at the official handing over of the keys of the town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen for the three-day event BMW Motorrad Days 2009 by 1st Mayor Thomas Schmid on Friday evening in the main tent.

And there were indeed over 30,000 visitors, fans and riders of the brand BMW Motorrad in attendance from over 30 countries who had found their way to the picturesque holiday resort at the foot of the Hausberg mountain for the world’s biggest BMW Motorrad party, enjoying a lively program which reflected all aspects of the BMW Motorrad world – first in rather unsettled weather but subsequently in summer style. A group of eight persons from Peking had travelled furthest to get to the event.

The central focus of interest was the Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport which has been participating in the Superbike World Championship with the racing version of the BMW S 1000 RR since the beginning of this season. The team under Berthold Hauser, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport, with the two factory riders Troy Corser (Australia) and Ruben Xaus (Spain), was introduced to motorcycle fans not only on the stage of the main tent – which was packed full to the last seat – but also at autograph sessions and close-up photo shoots. The riders also presented the serial production version of the BMW S 1000 RR to the public at large in the Freestyle Area of the BMW Motorrad Days – where Indoor Streetbike Freestyle World Champion Chris Pfeiffer otherwise kept his audience on tenterhooks.

With breath-taking stunts, the world’s leading motorcycling acrobat with his BMW F 800 R showed that even the impossible can apparently be performed on a standard motorcycle. The four-times World and European Stunt Riding Champion and four-times winner of the Erzberg Rodeo fascinated visitors with the same spectacular trick combinations which enabled him to outshine all his competitors and win the Indoor Streetbike Freestyle World Championship for the third time in succession.

No less fascinating were the action performances of the two mountain bikers Igor Obu and Andreas Schuster. Obu hit the headlines about ten years ago when he raced down the Olympic ski jump in Garmisch-Partenkirchen on his mountain bike at a speed of 112 km/h, landing after 42.11 metres. At the BMW Motorrad Days, Schuster took fans’ breath away with a jump from ramp to ramp over seven metres.

There was also pure excitement on the demanding enduro circuit – the x-track – where enduro riders Gerhard Forster, Andreas Lettenbichler, Juha Salminen, Simo Kirssi and Bernd Eckenbach provided highly competitive racing action on their G 450 X race enduro bikes.

Anyone who wanted to venture off-road themselves had the option of the 10,000 m² Enduro Park complete with BMW GS models and Husqvarna motorcycles, where five experienced instructors provided free training courses throughout the entire weekend.

Those who prefer to ride on asphalt also had plenty of opportunity to enjoy themselves at the BMW Motorrad Days 2009. In addition to test rides on current models from the BMW Motorrad range through the magnificent landscape around Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the traditional motorcycle parade also took place this year on the Saturday, at least four kilometres long and running a distance of over 95 kilometres, as well as the classic parade on Sunday which ran a 25–kilometre circuit starting and finishing at Hausbergplatz and featuring some 80 historic BMW motorcycles. There were also special ladies’ tours on BMW motorcycles on offer for women riders.

For anyone who wanted to temporarily swap two wheels for four, there was the BMW xDrive circuit where visitors had the opportunity – under the safe supervision of professionals – to experience extreme side tilt, offset elevations and steep hill climbs and descents in the BMW models X3, X5 and X6.

The two motorcycle adventurers Michael Martin and Doris Wiedemann provided exciting entertainment, too. Martin gave insights into his latest project “Planet Desert” and Wiedemann talked about how she travelled in February 2009 on her BMW F 800 GS from the southernmost point of the USA in Key West, Florida, to the icy Prudhoe Bay on the Artic Ocean.

The great party atmosphere was mainly provided by the guests themselves, though of course supported by an extremely well-disposed presenter Jan Stecker and a wide range of live music acts. In the main tent the well-known party band “Blechblos’n” got guests going on Friday evening, as did the formation “Gary and Gerry and the used underwear” on Saturday evening. The US Lodge rocked with the Austrian party band “Dreirad” and “Switha’s Band” provided some excellent alternative rock from Portugal. More tranquil tones were to be heard from “Byron” with his acoustic guitar at the camp fire. Last but not least, DJ Moorat burned up the turntables and Gitty Fisher lent her powerful voice to unplugged performances for fans of country and rock’n roll music on both evenings. A big draw was held on Friday and on Saturday evening, when a BMW F 800 R and a BMW F 800 GS respectively found thrilled new owners.

Purely logistically the BMW Motorrad Days 2009 turned out to be a spectacular event, too. Over 700 people were and are still involved in the three-week preparations and implementation and the two-week dismantling process. In addition to rooms booked by long-standing regular guests in and around Garmisch-Partenkirchen, some 1,420 additional accommodation places were secured, with 1,400 tents in the Camping Area immediately adjacent to the event grounds providing yet more sleeping facilities. A total of more than 1,500 tons of material such as sand, tree trunks, concrete and stones were moved to create the x-track: the amount of sand alone was the same as the entire yearly requirement of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Fans and friends of the brand BMW purchased some 6,500 BMW Motorrad Days 2009 T-Shirts and 2,250 matching caps, as well as receiving the “BMW Motorrad Insider News” each day free of charge for information on the program, activities and weather situation. 5,000 copies of this newspaper were handed out on each of the three days. Over 1,000 Riders’ Passes were sold to allow visitors to make use of the numerous transport options.

1st Mayor Thomas Schmid was once again pleased at the solid and long-standing collaboration between the town and BMW Motorrad and hoped it would continue for many years to come. In this connection, Schmid mentioned not only the planned 2011 World Alpine Skiing Championship but also Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s application to host the Olympic Games in 2018. “BMW is a partner of the application company – so the bond is getting closer,” he commented. The success story of BMW Motorrad and Garmisch-Partenkirchen goes from strength to strength.

[Source: BMW ]

So, what got us so excited? Well, for one, the 193 horsepower at 13,000 RPM and 82.5 lb-ft of torque at 9,750 RPM, while only weighing 455.3 pounds with a full tank of gas. The super Beemer has the most horsepower and best power-to-weight ratio of all 1000 cc bikes available for the consumers. BMW S 1000 RR can be equipped with ABS and Dynamic Traction Control systems. As a curiosity, the ABS system weighs only 5.51 lbs.

Facing various riding conditions such as wet roads (”Rain”), regular road conditions (”Sport”), a race track with supersport tyres (”Race”), or a race track with slicks (”Slick”), the rider also has the choice of various engine characteristics and set-ups available at the touch of a button. There’s also an HP Gearshift Assistant that will allow for full-power clutchless upshifts.

As far as the design, it is all you could expect from a BMW and it differentiates itself from the crowd by offering asymmetrical headlights, loved by some Beemer fans but equally hated by others.

For more details, see the press release below.

The New BMW S 1000 RR

Overall Concept and Features.
Introducing the new BMW S 1000 RR on the legendary Monza Racing Circuit, BMW Motorrad is for the fi rst time launching an absolutely innovative supersports with a straight-four power unit.

With this world debut, BMW Motorrad is indeed establishing a true milestone in the world of sports machines, combining engine output of 142 kW (193 hp) with overall weight of just 204 kg (450 lb) including fuel (183 kg/403.5 lb dry weight, 206.5 kg/455.3 lb overall with Race ABS).

Specifications of this calibre make this supersports machine not only an absolute highlight in terms of its power-to-weight ratio and performance, but also, equipped with Race ABS and DTC Dynamic Traction Control, a new benchmark in terms of riding dynamics, safety and innovation.

The decision to present this unique performer in Monza was by no means a coincidence. For since the beginning of this year Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport has been playing an active role in the World Superbike Championship, the new S 1000 RR setting the foundation for the production-based racing machines ridden by BMW Motorrad’s two works riders Troy Corser and Ruben Xaus. And obviously the Royal Park in Monza is the ideal place for a presentation of this calibre.

The Challenge for BMW Motorrad.
To successfully enter the World Championship with a Superbike today, a manufacturer needs a production model with the right kind of overall concept consistently applied in all areas. The essential factors, therefore, are supreme power, a wide range of engine speed, fast revving capacity also over a long period, optimum chassis stiffness, and perfect set-up of the engine.

Other features absolutely essential more than ever particularly in the top league of supersports motorcycles are simple and straightforward rideability, lightfooted handling, and above all safety features such as rider assistance systems like ABS and traction control giving the customer precisely what he needs.

Developing the S 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad has entered completely new, unchartered terrain. Clearly, this meant a huge range of new challenges and responsibilities for the entire Development Team, but also gave the Team enormous motivation in seeking to set new standards.

The specific targets in developing the S 1000 RR were therefore clear:
• To achieve output and performance of the highest standard.
• To make the suspension absolutely stable, with top handling and supreme traction.
• To give the new machine that unmistakable, dynamic design of BMW Motorrad.
• To reduce the weight of the motorcycle to an absolute minimum.
• To ensure top quality typical of BMW .

Unique against the competition.
Over the years and decades, the principle of combining a straight-four power unit with an aluminium bridge frame has been consistently developed and has become the dominating technical concept particularly in the supersports segment. The reason, quite simply, is that a motorcycle of this kind offers significant benefits in terms of riding dynamics, long-distance endurance, and straightforward production.

Precisely this is why the new S 1000 RR also applies this concept with its proven fortes and advantages. But even while the S 1000 RR, in its concept teaming up a straight-four power unit and an aluminium bridge frame, may appear at first sight to have similarities with some competitors, the Development Team at BMW Motorrad has succeeded in enhancing the existing status of this concept in virtually every respect.

As a result, the S 1000 RR offers not only a wide range of USPs in terms of technology, performance, and design, but also, through its particularly compact overall layout, clearly demonstrates the high school of European engineering in the supersports four-cylinder segment.

Maximum performance and riding dynamics.
The consistent concept of the S 1000 RR supersports is borne out in particular by the truly fascinating, innovative high-performance technology and incomparable riding dynamics of this new machine. The result is an exceptional combination of supreme riding precision and agility, on the one hand, with unparalleled engine power and performance, on the other, providing an overall package truly unique in the market.

Never before has a BMW motorcycle been conceived and built more consistently for supersports riding in terms of its concept and overall construction. But at the same time the new S 1000 RR retains many of the virtues so typical of every BMW to this day: Extreme sportiness and riding dynamics combined with supreme everyday riding qualities, playful handling together with supreme riding stability, outstanding performance combined with unparalleled active safety, as well as dynamic, unmistakable design in conjunction with optimum ergonomics and aerodynamics.

Free choice of engine characteristics as well as Race ABS and DTC Dynamic Traction Control
The new S 1000 RR also excels through features and qualities typical of BMW such as a long running life, superior quality of production and optimum environmental compatibility thanks to the use of the most advanced exhaust management with two fully controlled three-way catalytic converters also able to fulfil future standards and requirements.

Active safety when braking is signifi cantly enhanced by Race ABS developed especially for the S 1000 RR as a genuine supersports and available as an option straight from the factory. A further most signifi cant feature likewise contributing to active safety of the highest standard is DTC Dynamic Traction Control also available as an option and masterminded electronically for supreme precision and practical value.

Facing various riding conditions such as wet roads (”Rain”), regular road conditions (”Sport”), a race track with supersport tyres (”Race”), or a race track with slicks (”Slick”), the rider also has the choice of various engine characteristics and set-ups available at the touch of a button. And last but not least, Race ABS and Dynamic Traction Control are combined with the respective riding modes and coordinated with one another to ensure a supreme standard of performance and safety all in one.

Valve drive like in a BMW Formula 1.
The primary objective in developing the new S 1000 RR was to create a supersports with supreme engine power combined with optimum rideability for the highest conceivable standard of all-round performance.

The water-cooled four-cylinder inline power unit chosen to provide these qualities is brand-new from the ground up, developing maximum output of 142 kW (193 hp) at 13,000 rpm and revving up to a maximum speed of 14,200 rpm. Maximum torque of 112 Nm (82.5 lb-ft), in turn, comes at 9,750 rpm.

Following the example of BMW ’s Formula 1 engines, the two intake and exhaust valves per cylinder made of extra-light titanium are operated by very small and equally light single cam followers. In conjunction with the short sprocket driving the camshaft via an intermediate gear, this ensures supreme revving qualities at the highest speeds as well as exact maintenance of valve timing combined with very compact dimensions.

The use of extremely small and light cam followers furthermore gives the engineer greater freedom in choosing the ideal valve lift curves and, accordingly, in selecting optimum performance characteristics on both road and track.

All engine components are particularly compact and light, limiting weight of the overall engine without ancillaries to 59.8 kg (131.8 lb) and keeping the entire power unit very slim and slender.

Innovative exhaust system with interference pipe butterfl ies for optimum power and performance.
Made completely of stainless steel, the exhaust system featured by the S 1000 RR is designed consistently for optimum power and performance. It works according to the 4-in-2-in-1 principle with four individual manifolds of equal length fi rst merging into two pipes beneath the engine block and then extending into a large-volume pre-silencer. From there the exhaust emissions flow through a very short and dynamically designed rear-end silencer to the outside.

A homogeneous power and torque curve ensuring optimum rideability is acknowledged as the requirement for sporting performance on the road and fast lap times on the track. Precisely this is why the exhaust system featured on the S 1000 RR comes with two fully controlled interference pipe butterflies housed in two connection pipes for the two outer and two inner manifolds, in the immediate vicinity of the exhaust ducts. As a function of various parameters such as engine speed and the position of the throttle butterfly, an adjuster opens or closes these flaps, allowing exhaust gas to flow freely between the two manifolds or, respectively, interrupting the flow of gas. This coordinates the sequence of oscillations in the exhaust gas mass flow, reducing exhaust gas counter-pressure at the decisive point (like on a racing muffler) and increasing the cylinder charge accordingly.

This factor alone makes a signifi cant contribution to the very high standard of
homogenous overall performance offered by the S 1000 RR.

Lightest supersports with ABS.
The new S 1000 RR offers the highest standard of technology also on its suspension and running gear. Weighing just 206.5 kg or 455.3 lb in road trim and with a full tank, BMW ’s new supersports is by far the lightest machine of its calibre displacing 999 cc and featuring ABS brakes.

One of the features that ensures this light weight is the aluminium bridge frame integrating the engine tilted to the front at an angle of 32° as a loadbearing element for optimum torsional stiffness on minimum weight. The front wheel runs on an upside-down fork with a fi xed tube measuring an ample 46 milli metres or 1.81″ in diameter, while a torsionally stiff swing arm made of aluminium holds the rear wheel in position.

The spring and damping action required is provided by a central spring strut pivoting on a guide lever.

The rear frame section of the S 1000 RR is a welded light-alloy structure belted
to the mainframe, combining low weight with superior stability and a high standard of robust strength particularly important to riders and teams on the race track.

Putting the rider right in the centre.
The rider’s seating position leaning forward towards the front wheel for an active style of riding is simply ideal for the sporting rider with his particularly dynamic style.

Developing the S 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad has given particular attention to the superior ergonomics of the machine, providing ideal qualities for both small and tall riders and therefore focusing consistently on the rider’s individual requirements. The tank section is as slender as on a 600-cc machine, giving the rider the assurance of excellent control and handling at all times.

In the process of developing the S 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad focused not only on a lightweight structure, but also on minimum dimensions as an absolutely essential requirement. Cylinder bore of 80 millimetres or 3.15″, for example, the largest bore in this segment, and the resulting width of the cylinder head, called for particularly attention on the part of the engineers in order to make the front silhouette of the S 1000 RR extremely slim and slender, on the one hand, while providing an efficient flow of cooling air, on the other.

Technical challenges of this kind as well as a development period of just four years made the S 1000 RR the ideal project for consistent, all-out use of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) technology as well as the most advanced calculation methods, for example for the machine’s aerodynamics.

As the bottom line, the S 1000 RR is the absolutely ideal motorcycle for the customers of BMW Motorrad looking for new, unprecedented standards and qualities in the supersports segment.

Overview of technical highlights:
• Best-in-class performance and supreme riding dynamics in the supersports segment.
• Engine output 142 kW (193 hp) at 13,000 rpm, peak torque 112 Nm (82.5 lb-ft) at 9,750 rpm.
• Weighing 206.5 kg (455.3lb) in road trim and with a full tank, this is the lightest supersports in the 1000-cc class with ABS.
• Best power-to-weight ratio in this class of just 1.05 and, respectively, 1.06 kg
(2.31 and, respectively, 2.34 lb) per horsepower without/with Race ABS.
• Optional Race ABS for outstanding brake performance and safety. Weight of the entire system just 2.5 kg (5.51 lb), while other systems of a similar kind weigh up to 10 kg.
• Optional DTC Dynamic Traction Control in conjunction with Race ABS for optimum performance and maximum active safety when accelerating.
• Only supersports machine with Race ABS and DTC Dynamic Traction Control.
• Various riding modes available at the touch of a button for wet surfaces, regular road requirements, race tracks with sports tyres and race tracks with slicks.
• All-round set-up, coordination and balance of Race ABS, DTC Dynamic Traction Control and engine management for all four riding modes.
• High-speed, extra-sturdy valve drive with individual cam followers and titanium valves following the example of BMW ’s Formula 1 engines.
• Innovative exhaust system with a small and short rear-end muffl er, pre-silencer and electronically controlled interference pipe fl aps as well as a fully controlled exhaust gas manifold and two fully controlled three-way catalytic converters.
• Optimum gas dosage combined with maximum functional reliability ensured by E-gas (ride-by-wire), incorporating two bowden cables
(opening and closing cable) leading to the throttle butterfl y adjuster.
• Fulfilment of all environmental standards with the potential to meet future emission requirements ensured by two fully controlled catalytic converters and digital motor electronics.
• Damper elements with a wide range of adjustment on the spring base, the inbound and rebound stroke, as well as the greatest damping reserves, particularly for racing.
• New, clearly defi ned, simple and straightforward options to adjust the suspension and running gear.
• Aluminium tank unique in this segment for further reduction of overall weight.
• Supreme handling combined with best-in-class high speed and braking stability.
• Multi-functional instrument cluster with racing features such as a laptimer. The rider is able to set all functions directly from the ends of the handlebar.
• New generation of switches with optimised ergonomics.
• Supreme aerodynamics and sporting ergonomics ideal for both the tall and short rider.
• Optional HP Gearshift Assistant for shifting up without operating the clutch and without the slightest interruption of torque and pulling power.
• Wide range of equipment, special features and options tailored to the S 1000 RR and naturally offering full BMW quality.

[Source: BMW Motorrad ]

BMW Motorrad chose RawHyde Adventures, of Castaic, CA to serve as a factory-authorized off-road training. BMW Motorrad and RawHyde, BMW will initially provide 12 GS-model motorcycles (F 650 GS, F 800 GS and R 1200 GS models) for the training center. RawHyde will supply instructors for the two-and-a-half day courses.

Pricing? Not on the low side, but I’m assuming well worth it for motorcycles fans: the cost for the two-and-a-half day course is $1,295 and the one including the Base Camp Alpha Adventure, will cost $1,890.

Full Press Release

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 9, 2008… BMW Motorrad has selected RawHyde Adventures, of Castaic, CA to serve as one of nine factory-authorized off-road training centers worldwide. In the United States, RawHyde Adventures, located on 500 acres in the mountains above Los Angeles, will serve as the West Coast BMW off-road training facility. An East Coast off-road training facility is at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, SC.
“We are delighted to welcome RawHyde Adventures into our international family of off-road training centers,” said Pieter de Waal, Vice President, BMW Motorrad USA. “They are joining an elite group of factory-authorized training schools worldwide that have the quality and commitment to meet BMW’s high standards.”

“BMW’s off-road training centers are important allies in growing our GS market segment by helping riders gain the confidence and skills to enjoy their enduro motorcycles more fully,” added Todd Anderson, Marketing Manager, BMW Motorrad USA.

With its wide range of enduro motorcycles and increasing numbers of riders who enjoy the “adventure sport” lifestyle, BMW Motorrad is celebrating 2008 as the “Year of the Enduro.”

Now, before we get into the BMW bikes subject, let me tell you upfront that I am not the most knowledgeable person when it comes to beemers, but I will do my best to share with you some of the best looking and per formant BMW Motorcycles that I know of.

If any of you has more experience when it comes to them, please feel free to contact me and we can put together an article and post it here for everyone.

BMW K 1300S

BMW F800R

BMW K 1200S

BMW HP2 Sport

2009 BMW S1000RR Superbike

BMW HP2 Moto

BMW F650 GS Dakar

2008 BMW F800ST

BMW R1100RT

Those videos are quite interesting and I enjoy finding out more behind the scenes things. I know that talking about clothing might not be exciting for all of us, but the F1 driver’s equipment is really different and you will hear Nick and Robert talking about it.

P.S I’m a big Puma fan and I love seeing them as BMW’s sponsor.

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In 1992, the company went through a tough financial crisis and were unable to pay their lenders. But now, Brabham is back and their focus seem to be on becoming a BMW tuner. In a press release, the company announced three models:

1. Brabham BT 92 – based on an M3 Coupe
2. Brabham BT 60 - a tuned up M5
3. Brabham BT 70 - a sporty interpretation of the X6

Today, with the help from our friends at BMW-web.tv, we have a couple of short videos, first one, starting with the amazing steering wheel found in the F1 monoposts.

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The F1.09 will make its first public appearance in testing at Valencia in Spain. With the new monopost, BMW has high hopes for this upcoming season. The team believes that major changes to the Formula One regulations for 2009, including the return of slick tyres, aerodynamic restrictions and the introduction of KERS to recover waste energy from braking, could play into their advantage.

Here is what BMW’s Team boss Mario Theissen said:

“In 2009, Formula One will have to face arguably the most dramatic rule changes in the history of the sport,” he said.

“Due to the aerodynamic restrictions, the appearance of the single-seaters will differ massively from this year’s Formula One cars. To cut a long story short: the front will be bulkier, there won’t be any winglets and superstructures in front of and on the side pods respectively – and the rear wing will be smaller and positioned higher.

“Furthermore, slicks will make their comeback. In addition, the introduction of the KERS technology for the recovery of brake energy is in the offing. As a result, drivers will have to adapt to new situations in three vital areas of their working environment. And the engineers will have to carry out a lot of work.”

BMW have already announced that they will retain both Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld for next season.

This article was written by Stew, a talented and passionate writer for BMWF1blog.

If you could have thought of an exciting way to end the 2008 F1 season at Interlogos in 

Brazil, you wouldn’t have come close to one of the most exciting championship races ever.  I though I’d seen it all over the years, but certainly nothing like this.  The weekend at the Interlogos circuit began on Friday and it soon became apparent that this year the circuit was on the side of Ferrari, but with the threat of rain throughout the weekend and the McLaren better in wet weather, no one could say for sure who of any driver on the grid would win.

The stage was set with Lewis Hamilton of McLaren 7 points clear of second place Felipe Massa and with the two of them fighting neck and neck all season, the scenario for each driver was simple.  For Felipe Massa to win the championship, he had to win the race and  Lewis Hamilton had to finish in the top 5 to win the championship.  It all sounds fairly simple especially for Hamilton, but this weekend there was a lot at stake for other drivers and teams.  BMW Sauber drivers Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld wanted to secure their overall third and fifth place finishes, positions that were far from secure coming into this race.  It didn’t stop there as there were many other drivers needing a good finish both to secure their overall final placing as well as impress their employers for next season and maybe beyond.

The weekend up to the race remained dry and as expected, Felipe Massa secured a dominate pole position showing at his home circuit that he was there to win and from pole there wasn’t anyone I could find who would pick anyone else to win the race.  Just about 10 minutes before the race was to begin, the skies over Interlogos opened up in a short but substantial downpour that lasted only about 5 minutes, but enough to thoroughly soak the surface.  The race was delayed another 10 minutes and just about all driver changed from dry weather tires to intermediate wet tires, but Robert Kubica did not and as the parade lap finished he peeled into the pits realizing that hydroplaning around the circuit just wasn’t good enough.

The race got underway with Massa maintaining his lead, teammate Kimi Raikkonen 3rd, and Hamilton’s teammate Heikki Kovalainen dropping to 6th.  Turn 2 was the end to a stellar career for David Coulthard when he was hit by Nico Rosberg, spun and then hit by Kazuki Nakajima.  A heart breaking way to end a fine career.  The race progressed with Massa pulling away and Hamilton safely in 4th and it remained fairly status quo until the track dried sufficiently to come in for dry tires.  Fernando Alonso ever attentive pitted quickly, Vettel who would come into play much later made a short pit stop suggesting a 4 stop strategy and ended up 2nd behind Massa.

This quick pit stop by Vettel made him the first key player in the finish of the race.  The second key player became Timo Glock when on his second pit stop he took on enough fuel to go the distance.  By mid race it was clear that Hamilton was driving a fairly conservative race just to remain in the top 5 while Massa was charging in his own groove to a race win, but Sebastian Vettel was closing the gap on Hamilton, clearly quicker and intent on passing him.  

Then with 8 laps to go, RAIN, but how hard would it rain?  Only slightly at first and no need for a tire change.  6 laps to go and the rain falls harder.  Vettel fancies a chance at Hamilton pulling up next to him for the pass and 4th place, but not close enough.  Now it’s time for intermediate tires!  Hamilton and Vettel come in together on lap 5 and leave together, but Timo Glock in the Toyota remains on dry tires and takes 4th from Hamilton.  It’s nail biting time now for the McLaren crew with Hamilton in 5th and Vettel faster in 6th, he’s got to keep Vettel behind him or lose the championship.

With 2 laps to go, Hamilton bothered by a lapped Force India runs wide making the pass and Vettel almost takes him.  Robert Kubica in the BMW Sauber who had been lapped but keeping pace behind Hamilton and Vettel joins the fight and it’s 3 cars together with 2 to go.  Kubica then decides to unlap himself passing Vettel and then immediately Hamilton who lets him go, but runs wide on the pass by Kubica and Vettel jumps in and takes Hamilton moving into 5th and with 2 to go Hamilton is now in 6th and out of the championship.  Vettel increases the gap and Hamilton has nothing to give to reclaim 5th spot.

One lap to go and Glock, on dry tires and now heavy rain is in 4th and 15 seconds ahead of Hamilton.  Is he going to be able to keep his position on dry tires?  Meanwhile Massa comes through to take the checkered flag and win the Brazilian Grand Prix, but he’s got to wait for Hamilton to know if he’s stolen the championship.  3 corners to go, the main grandstand in sight and with Glock now slowing dramatically, Vettel and Hamilton steam by putting Hamilton back in 5th and in championship winning position.  He crosses the line in 5th to win the championship.

A very dramatic finish to the final race of the season in Brazil.  Lewis Hamilton claims 2008 F1 Champion with 3 corners to go.

For BMW Sauber fans it wasn’t quite the race to remember.  The pace wasn’t quite there throughout the weekend and with Nick Heidfeld starting in 9th and Robert starting last from the pits due to his late tire change before the race it wasn’t pretty.  Neither Robert or Nick had any grip during the race and at times Robert was the slowest on the track.  In the end Nick finished 10th with Robert in 11th both a lap down.  

It was a great season however for the BMW Sauber team who achieved all of their goals and more.  From a 1-2 finish in Canada (which I was able to witness) to the most reliable car in the field, 11 podiums and 3rd in the constructors championship.  We couldn’t have asked for more from a very young team.

Look out for BMW Sauber next season with new rules and very new cars, it should be another great season.

Last Lap:

Click here to view the embedded video.

The fans had the opportunity to see the BMW F1 drivers take their monoposts around the demonstration circuit. The F1.08, latest BMW monopost, was explained in detail by Technical Director Willy Rampf, Head of Powertrain Markus Duesmann, and Managing Director Walter Riedl. 

One of our readers, Maarten, and a member of Germancarzone forum has shared with us some photos from the event along with a short video. Overall, this was a great touch by BMW, that allowed their die hard fans to take photos and autographs with the drivers, and even to chit-chat with them. 

But here is what Maarten said:

It’s a great sensation to have an F1 car started right in front of your nose. Seeing Kubica get in and seeing him take off like a madman. He really enjoyed his demo run, passing at the borders by mere inches. 

I also got to drive a new 123d coupé on a slalom track, and you could perform a pit stop yourself. All great extra things that made this a special day!

Afterwards they gave away some prices like two rims, and some other car parts. I was also lucky and won a leather team jacket. 
It was an amazing day and for a true F1 and BMW fan this is something to look forward to!! I’ll be back next year!!
 

I am a huge Formula One fan and I am a little sad that we don’t have a race here in the U.S anymore, but hopefully this coming here, I will catch the Monaco Race, one of my favorite to watch.

Thanks for the photos again!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Today I went and hung out at a BMW motorcycle shop in my area and learned a lot about the guys that are dedicated to BMW bikes. I also learned that BMW Motorcycles only make up roughly 1% of all motorcycles in the U.S. Even Triumph accounts for more bikes (just below 3%).

Still, though, it takes a dedicated person to ride a BMW just like us BMW car drivers. We love our Bimmers, and talking with the riders today, I’d say they have us beat for dedication, believe it or not.

BMW Motorcycles date back to 1921 when they started making engines for others. They started making what they called ‘Boxer Engines’ out of a basic Flat-Twin cylinder setup, except with each cylinder hanging out in the breeze, one at each side of the motor. This was very good for keeping the engine and cylinders cool.  BMW produced their first road-going motorcycle in 1923 called the R 32. The R 32 was made up of a 486cc Boxer engine that had 8.5hp and a top speed of roughly 60 MPH. With the R 32 also came a new wet-sump oil system that BMW used until 1969. Motorcycles didn’t start using wet-sumps until the 70’s when the Japanese motorbikes started gaining far more recognition in America.

As you can see BMW was already using new and better technologies before everyone else. It’s the BMW way.

Later, in the 1937 BMW set a world record of 173.88 MPH with a supercharged 500cc bike. This record was unbeaten for 14 years due to WWII coming about. The record was set by Ernst Henne who died in 2005 at 101 years old. Maybe the speed prolonged his life?

BMW was pretty much the official bike of South African duties for the Nazi’s. That sounds like a Mastercard commercial, by the way. But the BMW R 71 was so good that the U.S. Army commissioned Harley Davidson to literally copy the bike. Harley did so by converting the metric scale of the BMW to inches. The reason that the BMW was better than all of the others was due to its Boxer design that had the cylinders coming out of the sides to catch air, and also due to the shaft drive that didn’t get beat up by the harsh African sand like all chain driven bikes did.

After the war BMW had to start all over again. All of the records of the pre-war motorcycles were blown up. All they had to go on was left over motorcycles that were still riding around the streets. From the old R 32 they were able to build the R 34 in 1948. With sales climbing well over 26,000 in two years BMW was back on their feet. From there BMW was able to make more profit and build much better bikes.

BMW motorcycles have had a rather successful career in racing as well, just like with their cars.

Stay tuned for more BMW Motorrad history coming to you from BMW Blog.

Article by Josh from RawAutos.com

[Information and photos taken from: Wikipedia]

BMW has released its new and ultra-lightweight crash helmet for their sport bike riders. The helmet has been tested and proven to be one of the quietest, lightest and best aerodynamic helmets in the business. BMW tested this by using their own Formula 1 wind tunnel.

The new BMW crash test helmet has been manufactured with vents to increase and maximize quality air flow to all over the head. This is of course very important from racers and riders of all kinds. The helmet only weighs 3lbs. 3 POUNDS!!! That’s pretty light. That is thanks to its fiberglass outer body shell.

The inner liner is washable, just like most high quality helmets these days. Another important piece of the new BMW helmet is the chin spoiler, better, scratch resistant, visor that’s easier to open and close with your gloves on, interior helmet noise that is reduced to almost nothing, maximum peripheral  vision helmet and visor setup (that’s good for me as I have great peripheral vision and use it to my advantage, especially when driving.), and very importantly, a moisture resistant inner liner that helps to soak up and disperse all of your sweat. That’s so important on hot days, but more importantly for a racer on the track.

Look for more BMW Motorcycle topics to make their way on BMW Blog as motorcycles were the first road going machines that BMW made. Back in the day Beamer bikes were some of the most powerful and best racing bikes on the planet. BMW Motorrad has been at the forefront of technology and racing. BMW just recently announced its involvement in the 2009 Superbike World Championship.

Thanks for the tip Shrawan!

Article by Josh from RawAutos.com

[Source: Indian Autos Blog via Wheels24]