BMW's two-wheel product expansion takes another step forward for 2008, with six new or extensively revised models in four different categories. In addition, the company moves into yet one more displacement class this year with another all-new off-road design.
The company's HP, Supersport and Adventure-Touring ranks also expand via new or extensively revised models in those areas. In all, BMW's 2008 model offerings rank as the most diverse the company has ever offered, with 20 models that cover the world of motorcycling from cleated footpegs and knobbies, to clip-ons and slicks, to saddlebags and GPS units -- in any mixture you can imagine.
2008 BMW G 450 X
The cleated footpeg crowd is covered by the all-new competition-oriented G 450 X, which joins a lineup that includes the three single-cylinder G 650 X models. Even more off-road oriented than the G 650 Xchallenge , the 450 boasts an engine and chassis designed to optimize the lightweight bike's off-road intent.
The 50-horsepower liquid-cooled single sits in a frame that combines stainless steel and aluminum components. A Marzocchi fork and Ohlins rear shock are just two of the top-drawer components on this fuel-injected off-road-ready tool.
2008 BMW F 800 GS
Also new this year is the latest version of BMW's parallel-twin, the F 800 GS (See the wBW Special Report on the new F 800 GS). Neatly slotted in between the previous F 650 GS and the company's R 1200 GS Boxer-twins , this 85-horsepower Adventure-Tourer provides another choice in BMW's legendary line of all-road tourers.
2008 BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure
Those looking for a higher-performance alternative can choose from either R 1200 GS or R 1200 GS Adventure, this year thoroughly updated with more power, revised gearing and optional Enduro ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment). True to their character, the new GS models ensure that 2008 will provide a wider range of treatments for chronic wanderlust.
2008 BMW HP2 Megamoto and HP2 Sport
BMW's high-performance HP2 series gains a pair of stablemates with the addition of the HP2 Megamoto and HP2 Sport , both designed to provide a significant boost in power, performance and excitement.
The Megamoto boasts a 113-hp Boxer-twin, premium chassis components and upright riding position with sticky 17-inch tires, lowered suspension, and dual front discs. The 130-hp HP2 Sport is the most-powerful Boxer-twin yet, and the first production DOHC Boxer in BMW history. Awash in carbon-fiber, it looks particularly fetching fitted with slicks.
Rounding out the remaining 2008 lineup is an appealing array of encore performers. The F 800 S (2007 model) and F 800 ST parallel-twins retain their positions as superlative sport or sport-touring middleweights.
BMW's four-cylinder K 1200 S and K 1200 R Sport (2007 model) inject an additional dose of horsepower to that formula while still maintaining a modicum of civility. BMW's traditional touring niche is neatly-and exquisitely-filled by the R 1200 RT Boxer , the K 1200 GT and luxury-touring K 1200 LT.
And those who prefer motorcycling's purist approach can still find the R 1200 R and K 1200 R fill that bill with just a hint of attitude.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment