On 1 June, production of BMW’s new K1200 S high performance superbike started at the BMW motorcycle plant in Berlin. However, the motorcycles currently manufactured will not go to customers but will be used for internal purposes including training and to perfect all processes to ensure the highest level of quality when the new model is officially launched in September.

The K1200 S is a new concept sports bike from BMW Motorrad and the second machine (after the R1200 GS launched in March) to reflect the new design philosophy of creating new motorcycles with more power, lighter in weight and with increased agility.

The sporting potential of the K1200 S can be easily seen from its technical specification. The 4-cylinder, in-line 1157cc capacity engine generates an output of 123kW (167 bhp) at 10,250 rpm. A highest torque figure of 130Nm is achieved at 8,250 rpm. In addition, more than 70 per cent of maximum torque is available from just 3,000 rpm. However, the overriding target for the engine developers was to achieve sports-type characteristics that would ensure rideable and fully controllable performance for the road.

The valves of the dual-camshaft engine are operated by light and rigid cam followers. With a bore/stroke ratio of 59 x 79mm, the engine is a short-stroke unit. Two balancing shafts in the horizontally-divided cylinder crankcase are made of light alloy – to ensure a distribution of masses and low-vibration running.

To achieve a flat design for the crankcase, the K1200 S has been fitted with dry sump lubrication. This permits an extremely low siting of the engine (there is no oil sump) and with the cylinder bank angled forwards to 55 degrees has helped to establish the machine’s low centre of gravity.

BMW are claiming a wet weight complete with all fluids and fuel of 248kg which will put it directly on terms with Suzuki's Hayabusa, Honda's CBR1100XX and Kawasaki's ZX-12R.

Suspension and chassis technical highlights are the Duolever and electronically adjustable suspension. The Duolever resembles a link square made up of two virtually parallel longitudinal links which are mounted in the frame so they can swivel and permit a precise up-and-down movement of the front wheel. This is mounted in an extremely rigid component, the so-called wheel carrier – a light component cast from high-strength aluminium alloy which is connected to the longitudinal links via two ball joints and performs the steering action. In turn, a longitudinal link connected to the central spring strut is responsible for suspension and damping. The benefits of this system are extremely high rigidity, combined with low weight, and an ideal wheel and lift curve.

With the ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) option, yet another BMW innovation enters production. The spring preload and damping can be electronically adjusted at the press of a button which is conveniently sited on the handlebars.

This machine’s electrics are also extremely advanced. A whole series of functions is facilitated by the so-called CAN bus technology, which is simpler than conventional wiring systems and offers full diagnostics capability.

Together with a catalytic converter, sports Integral ABS and maintenance-free shaft drive, the K1200 S represents a unique addition to the sports motorcycling market.

The K1200 S will be available from BMW dealers soon after the public premiere at the Intermot motorshow in mid September.

Specifications

Model - BMW K1200 S

Engine - 1157cc, four cylinder, DOHC,16 valve

Bore x stroke - 79 x 59mm

Claimed Power - 167hp (123kw) @ 10,250rpm

Claimed Torque - 130Nm @ 8,250rpm

Clutch - Wet multi disc

Gearbox - Six speed

Final Drive- Shaft

Frame - Aluminium composite frame

Front Suspension - BMW Duolever, 115mm of travel

Rear Suspension - BMW Paralever, 135mm of travel

Wheelbase - 1571mm

Front Brakes - EVO brake system, dual 320mm discs, BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral) as standard

Rear Brake - Single 265mm disc, BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral) as standard

Tyres - 120/70 ZR17 (F), 190/50 ZR17 (R)

Seat Height - 820mm (can be lowered to 790mm)

Claimed Wet Weight - 248kg complete with all fluids and fuel