BMW Motorrad launches fast, light, DOHC Boxer and intends to go racing
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The third model of the HP model range is designed for the ambitious sports rider and enthrals with numerous details from the racetrack, some making their first appearance in series vehicle production.
Examples of these include the self-supporting and aerodynamically optimized fairings made completely of CFK, the gear shift assistant, a dashboard like that used in MotoGP, forged aluminium wheels and the racing brakes with radially bolted calipers. Wherever the eye wanders, it sees pure racing technology that delights every enthusiast. It is unmistakably athletic, a vehicle that inspires on country roads as well as on the racing circuit.
Regardless of the limits for the engine output as a result of the principle and the aerodynamic disadvantages from the cylinder configuration of a Boxer, BMW Motorrad deliberately decided to further develop this historic engine concept for a road racing machine. The key engine numbers are very respectable: the engine achieves more than 96 kW/128 hp at 8750 rpm and maximum torque of 115 Nm comes at 6000 rpm, with redline at 9500 rpm.
Technically, the BMW HP2 Sport is based on the BMW R 1200 S. Customised to meet the requirements of the ambitious sports rider down to the last detail, the BMW HP2 Sport is however a completely different motorcycle. Many detailed solutions are based on the experiences gained in the long-distance races in which BMW compted this year.
The most striking difference of the BMW HP2 Sport from the endurance racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder head(s): each of the double overhead camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger than in the BMW R 1200 S. Further modifications such as the flow-optimised intake and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod help the engine to achieve the necessary higher output compared to the basic engine.
The new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first time. This keeps the construction of the lower area of the motorcycle extremely slim, enabling great freedom of movement for the familiar ‘hanging off’ riding position, and the fitting of a CFK engine spoiler is advantageous to the aerodynamics.
An inimitable boxer sound with new acoustic quality is generated by the exhaust system and the striking design of the rear silencer is impressive.
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