BMW K 1200 R Sport

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BMW K 1200 R Sport. Based on the world’s most powerful naked bike (the 163 hp K 1200 R) but with additional weather protection and styling from its ergonomically designed and wind-tunnel developed half-fairing, this new version offers the same levels of performance and excitement as the naked roadster but with increased rider comfort and long-distance capability.

2. Technical features and design 
Technically, the K1200 R Sport is derived from the K1200 S high performance machine with modifications to only a few features. The drivetrain, running gear, brakes and on-board network have all been carried over from the K1200 S. The new body and equipment, and truly exceptional futuristic design, make the K1200 R a brand-new and quite different motorcycle to others in its segment. Weighing only 237 kg (wet weight with a full tank but without ABS) the K1200 R is the embodiment of BMW Motorrad’s new generation models that offer superior handling and manoeuvrability – especially at low speeds, on country roads, and in towns.

Drivetrain
Slender and compact, the straight-four power unit displaces 1157cc, which is the same as the engine of the K1200 S. Other engine data is also similar: the new Roadster develops a slightly lower peak output of 120kW (163 Bhp) at the same engine speed of 10,250 rpm, with maximum torque of 127Nm (94 lb-ft) delivered at 8,250 rpm. 
Mechanically, the engine of the K1200 R Sport is identical to that of the K1200 S and has the same camshaft configuration and valve timing. The flow of intake air has been modified for the new machine and features just one ‘snorkel’ leading to the airbox on the right-hand side. The modified flow of intake air is the reason for the slightly lower level of maximum power and torque. The silencer and exhaust manifold systems both come from the K1200 S.
The transmission is also unchanged from the K1200 S. However, at 2.91:1 (instead of 2.82:1 on the K1200 S) the drivetrain final drive ratio has been adjusted to the reduced the top speed of the ‘naked’ motorcycle. This is because of the machine’s higher drag coefficient. 

Suspension and running gear
The suspension and running gear are slightly modified on the new model. The Duolever has a somewhat steeper angle (0.4°) and the steering head angle has been changed to 61°, with camber 11mm shorter at 101mm. The change in suspension geometry has been achieved by a minor alteration in the machining of bearing points on the Duolever. 
The positive effect of the modified suspension geometry results in even better handling, particularly at low speeds. Any theoretical repercussions on directional stability at high speeds (versus the K1200 S) are unnoticeable and irrelevant on a motorcycle without a fairing and with a somewhat lower top speed. 
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BMW Motorrad’s Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) is also available as an optional extra. Introduced for the first time on the K1200 S and now also available on the R1200 RT, this world-first enables a rider to adjust the suspension from the handlebars – at the touch of a button – an operation that can be performed while riding. 
ESA varies compression damping on the front wheel, and compression and rebound damping on the rear wheel. The rider also has the ability to adjust the rear-wheel spring preload electro hydraulically while the motorcycle is at standstill (i.e. for different payloads). 
Spring travel on the K1200 R Sport is the same as on the K1200 R, measuring 115mm at the front and 135mm at the rear. 

Brakes – high-performance EVO brake system and Integral ABS as an option
The K1200 R Sport is equipped with BMW’s EVO brake system (featured on all K Series and flat-twin models). In configuration and dimensions the brake system – with disc brake diameters of 320mm at the front and 265mm at the rear – is the same as on the K1200 S. The brake hoses are steel-clad for additional safety and reliability. 
The BMW EVO brake system (EVO stands for evolution) is one of the safest and most effective brake systems in the world.
As another optional extra, the EVO brake system is available with Sports Integral ABS. This means that both brakes (front and rear) are activated by the hand lever, while the footbrake lever acts only on the rear wheel.
Even when applying maximum pressure on the brakes, the rider of the K1200 R has less chance of losing control thanks to the motorcycle’s low centre of gravity and the special suspension geometry, which interacts with the kinematic configuration of the Duolever. In other words, with ABS, the rider benefits under virtually all conditions from maximum tyre adhesion when applying the brakes with ultimate force. This ensures best possible safety even in the most extreme situations.


Electrics and electronics
Boasting a wide range of innovations, the on-board network in CAN-bus technology (Controller Area Network) has been transferred from the K1200 S without modification. The advantages of this technology are a far wider range of available functions (compared with conventional on-board networks) and much simpler and more straightforward cable connections, absence of conventional meltdown fuses, and full-scale diagnostic management and examination options. 
A fully integrated electronic immobiliser is standard equipment and consistently exchanges coded and frequently changing data between the motorcycle key (by means of a transponder) and the on-board electronic system. This is the best and safest immobiliser currently available, ensuring that only the authorised rider has access to the machine.

Fuel tank and seat
The fuel tank of the K1200 R is made of extra-light, impact-resistant 
synthetic material and offers a capacity of 19 litres (almost 4.2 gals) including four litres in reserve. The overall configuration of the K1200 R – as with all BMW Motorrad models – serves to keep the tank particularly slender in front of the rider, thus ensuring optimum knee contact. 
Similar in its basic design, the seat is more slender than on the K1200 S in order to create an even more forward-oriented, active riding position. The rider’s absolute geometric seat height is 820mm with a step-arch length of 1,810mm. A low-level seat, which is available as a no-cost option, measures 790mm in height with 1,750mm step-arch length. The lower seat can also be retrofitted as special equipment.

3. Range of equipment
Although the K1200 R Sport is comfortably at home in an urban environment it is – like all BMW motorcycles – perfectly suited to long distance riding and touring. 
There are also many experienced riders who prefer the classic concept of motorcycling and enjoy being in harmony with the environment; riders that want to enjoy a direct experience on their motorcycle and are happy to do so without a fairing. However, even on BMW’s new Roadster they need appropriate solutions for holiday baggage and other travel items.
This is precisely why the K1200 R is available with sports cases carried over from the K1200 S. The specially designed luggage combines superior function with sporting design and reflect the sporting character of the new high-performance Roadster. Combining textile and hard material, the luggage is an integrated addition to the machine and, using the racks already fitted to the motorcycle, can be mounted and removed within a matter of seconds. 
Loading space is variable. This extends from 17 litres per case in normal configuration to 25 litres when each case is fully expanded. The fully integrated inner bags are obviously watertight.
The sports wind deflector (fly screen) is ideal for riders that want more protection from wind and weather. The screen is extendable and has wider dimensions (compared with the standard windscreen).
The usual range of features – direct from the factory – is available for further customisation and is integrated during production at the Berlin plant. Special equipment can subsequently be fitted by the customer, or by any BMW motorcycle dealership. 

Optional extras 
• BMW Motorrad Integral ABS.
• ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment).
• Sports wheels.
• Heated handlebar grips. 
• Sports windshield (fly screen).
• White direction-indicator lights.
• Low rider’s seat (seat height 790mm)
• Luggage rack.
• Anti-theft warning system.

Special equipment
• A low rider’s seat (seat height 790mm)
• Main stand. 
• Heated grips. 
• White direction-indicator lights.
• Anti-theft warning system.
• Two power sockets. 
• Luggage racks.
• Set of sports cases.
• Watertight tank rucksack.
• Watertight tank bag. 
• Watertight small sports softcase (for the luggage rack).
• Luggage rack.
• Preparation for BMW Motorrad Navigator II.
• BMW Motorrad Navigator II.


4. Engine output and torque
Specifications K1200 R Sport

Engine    
Capacity cc 1,157
Bore/stroke mm 79/59
Max output kW/Bhp 120/163
at rpm 10, 250
Max torque Nm (lb-ft) 127 (945)
at rpm 8,250
Configuration   Inline
No of cylinders   4
Compression ratio/fuel grade   13/premium plus (98 Octane)
Valve/gas management   DOHC (double overhead camshaft)
Valves per cylinder    4
Intake/outlet valve diameter mm 32/27.5
Electrical system     
Alternator W 580
Battery V/Ah 12/14 maintenance-free
Headlight  W 1 x H7 55w Low beam
1 x H7 55w High beam
Starter kW 0.7
Power transmission/gearbox    
Clutch  

Multiple-plate oil bath clutch, Ř 151 mm

Gearbox   Dog-shift six-speed gearbox

Primary transmission ratio

  1.559

Gear ratios          I

  2.521

II

  1.842

III

  1.455

IV

  1.287

V

  1.143

VI

  1.015
Final drive      Driveshaft
Final drive transmission ratio   2.91
Running gear and suspension    
Frame design   Tubular steel spaceframe, load-bearing engine
Wheel guidance, front   BMW Duolever
Wheel guidance, rear   BMW Paralever
Spring travel, front/rear mm 115/135
Castor mm 101
Wheelbase mm 1,502
Handlebar head angle ° 61
Brakes front

Double disc brake, Ř 320 mm

 

rear Single disc brake, Ř 265 mm
Optional    BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partially integral)
Wheels   Light Alloy Cast
  front 3.50 x 17
  rear 5.50 x 17 Optional 6.00 x 17)
Tyres front 120/70 ZR 17
  rear 180/55 ZR 17 (190/55 ZR 17)
Dimensions and weights    
Length, overall mm 2,228
Width, overall, with mirrors mm 856
Handlebar width, w/out mirrors mm 785
Seat height mm Standard: 820 (790)
DIN unladen weight in road trim kg 237
Dry weight   kg -
Max permissible kg 450
Tank capacity ltr 19
Performance data    
Fuel consumption    
56 mph Mpg 59.9
75 mph Mpg 51.2
Acceleration     
0–62 mph sec 2.8
Standing-start km sec -
Top speed mph >125