/ 18 June 2004

BMW unveils K1200 S

BMW has finally ended months of rumour and speculation by releasing pictures and some specifications of their first real superbike. The K1200 S will deliver over 120 kW, so it should be a real flyer.

At the heart of the new bike is a brand new ultra narrow 1157cc four cylinder engine, mounted – a first for BMW – transversely across the frame, and tilted to 55 degrees to keep the centre of gravity low. The bike will follow BMW tradition and utilise a shaft drive, but this will be a real lightweight version. A first for BMW or any other manufacturer will be the option of electronically adjustable suspension. The factory has given no indication as to whether they will emulate their car division and fit the bike with a 250 km/hr speed limiter. The new BMW will be shown to the public at the INTERMOT show in Munich, from 15 to 19 September, and launched in the UK soon afterwards.