BMW R 1200 R

Built:2007-1720072008200920102011201220132014201520162017

The 2011 BMW R 1200 R (K27) tested here still has the 110 hp boxer engine with air/oil cooling. This model was built from 2006 to 2014 and has replaced the successful R 1150 R. In contrast to its predecessor, the 1200 is much stronger and sportier on the road, without losing the ability to tour. Some bikers even claim that the R 1200 R is the better alpine bike compared to the GS, because it doesn't carry so many kilos with it. We wouldn't go that far, but the R 1200 R is always suitable for touring.

First impression

Tastes, as we all know, come from the baker, but this machine looks really stunning, doesn't it? The first thing that catches the eye of this roadster, of course. As a Naked bike, there is no cladding or half-shell that restricts the view of the engine. Small or slim does not seem straight, but nevertheless well-trained and eye-seer - here no gram is installed too much.

Fans of sportier bikes may see it differently, but BMW riders are actually used to more powerful bikes, especially GS and adventure fans, of course. If you look over the individual elements of the machine, you can only see beautiful things: steel flex cables, conified aluminium handlebar, greased fork, single-arm swingarm with integrated gimbal drive, beautiful analog instruments and only quality parts wherever you look - BMW stop. The R 1200 R is also available as a "Classic" version with spoke wheels, a special exhaust pot and lots of chrome as well as a hand-painted tank.

The seat of the BMW R 1200 R has a strongly pronounced seat trough for the driver. The seat height of only 80 centimetres allows the driver to sit completely in instead of on the machine - unlike the passenger, who is perched much higher and can easily overlook the driver while driving. Both the driver and the passenger have enough space for longer journeys, which is rather rare with machines of this type. The handlebars are medium-width and with a weight of only 223 kilos (fully fuelled), the machine can be easily ranked. At the first start, the usual pleasant boxer sound sounds, which sounds nicely bassy and rough with our machine through an electronically controlled exhaust flap (from 2011 series).

 

This is how she drives herself

Already at the first meters a familiar feeling arises to the R 1200 R. It drives without any problems and is easy to control thanks to the lack of technical frills. Compared to the 1150 R, the engine has increased noticeably in force. The torque of 120 Nm is early and above all the linear torque curve is noticeable when giving the gas. The boxer pulls up willingly, no more trace of the somewhat strenuous-looking high-turning of the predecessor. The maximum speed from 2011 (facelift) is max. 8,500 rpm, and the double detonator now has two overhead camshafts. From as early as 2,000 rpm you can accelerate without the engine complaining - wonderful.

Coupled with the low weight, you can move the R 1200 R over the asphalt in a sporty way - but you don't really want to. Despite the power, the machine brings the driver down nicely and rather tempts him to glide casually. It's good to know that if it has to be, it can go really round, but no reason to rush around. If you let it crash properly, you might be surprised at the rubber band effect of the R 1200 R: The machine is already storming off well, but the acceleration is feeling stronger and stronger - see torque curve. In addition, the tendency to buckle the backs, which has been curbed by the Paralever - wonderful, one cannot describe, one must have experienced oneself.
 

The R 1200 R drives absolutely confidently and quietly, even if the ground is sometimes restless. Telelever and Paralever are absolutely mature and always provide a safe driving experience. This and the exact, easily switchable gearbox (low hand force on the clutch) as well as the brakes to be packed ensure immediate well-being. BMW is also nimble and curvy, what more do you want?

Maybe a better windscreen, that's not so great. Up to 120 km/h, the small sports disc works quite well on our test machine, but beyond that it is over with the feel-good feeling. This is doof, because the R 1200 R actually only looks so nice roadster-like with a small - or even better without - disc. If you want a good windscreen, you need a larger disc that ruins the optics.