Tuesday, 27 November 2007

2008 BMW Motorcycles New Model Overview

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.

BMW M3: Automotive Excellence Awards 2008

The new M3 isn’t the quickest or fastest performance car you can buy. Cars like the 600-hp Dodge Viper will likely beat it in a drag race. So why is this Bavarian hustler our performance pick for ’08? Because nothing can touch BMW’s mastery of refining and redefining the entire performance envelope. This is one of the few performance cars that can triumph at weekend track days and still carry four friends in perfect comfort and luxury to an evening movie. It’s as at home tearing up a winding mountain road as it is commuting on the freeway. The original high-spirited asphalt eater from the 1980s had the heart and soul of a race car. Today’s M3 is much more sophisticated and elegant. But don’t let a new suit of armor fool you into thinking this road warrior has gone soft. Under the hood, you’ll find a 414-hp, 4.0-liter V8—an M3 first—that produces 81 hp more than its predecessor. To handle the power, BMW heavily modified the 3 Series chassis. And many components are made of aluminum for weight savings. The V8 is backed by a slick six-speed manual gearbox. But a new seven-speed, double-clutch unit is on the way. The M3 is elegant and powerful, and it does its job at a comfort level not many cars can match.

Curvier 7-Series is shaping up - BMW 7-Series

Bigger than ever before, sportier and more luxurious – that’s BMW’s 7-Series replacement. But will it be better to look at when it’s revealed in 12 months time?

Auto Express’s exclusive pictures are the first to show that it will. Our spies caught a new prototype of the luxury model testing in the south of France.

By matching the photographs with inside information, we have been able to create the most accurate representation of the car yet – and it’s a stunner!

With a new-look grille and a lower and wider bonnet, the 7-Series takes some of its styling inspiration from the sensational CS concept, revealed at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show. The car also promises to lose the slab-sided look of the current model, thanks to sculpted flanks and a more rounded rear end.

And to match the new design, BMW is also claiming that the new 7-Series will represent a big step forward under the skin. Leading the way is an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and the option of BMW’s xDrive 4WD transmission. Inside, the gearlever will be moved from its current position next to the steering wheel to the transmission tunnel, while a simplified iDrive cabin control system is also promised.

A new range of engines is being developed, with power coming from a choice of 272bhp six-cylinder and 412bhp eight-cylinder petrol units. A new hydrogen model is also planned. Prices have still to be confirmed, but the car is likely to cost from £55,000 – that’s a slight increase over the current model.

More BMW 7-SERIES:

* News, Spy Shots: Seven up!
* News, Auto Express News: Terminator 7's target
* News, Auto Express News: Next 7 aces on space
* News, Spy Shots: BMW 7-Series
* News, Auto Express News: Gas-powered BMW 7
* News, Auto Express News: Gas-powered BMW 7-Series
* News, Spy Shots: Mild seven
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW Hydrogen 7
* Car Reviews, New Reviews: BMW 7-Series
* Car Reviews, First Drives: The air apparent
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 750i
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 7-Series
* Car Reviews, Used Car Tests: BMW 7-Series
* Videos, Spy Shot Videos: BMW 7-Series

Milan Show: BMW F650GS launched

As well as the new F800GS, BMW has unveiled the all-new F650GS – but don’t be fooled by the name, as its capacity is also 800cc.

Basically a lower spec version of the new F800GS, the F650GS replaces the old single-cylinder bike of the same name, using a detuned parallel twin engine.

Power is 71bhp – which is a full 20bhp more than the old 650 single – and the use of lower-specifications components means the price is kept down.

Right-way-up forks, a single front disc and different wheels – alloy rather than wire, and with a 19-inch front rather than a 21-inch version – mean the F650GS is a model in its own right. Weight is 171kg dry, or 199kg wet.

More road-oriented than the F800GS, it’s only a little slower, with a claimed 0-62 time of 4.3 seconds and a top whack of 117mph.

For new riders, BMW is offering a no-cost conversion to 33bhp.

2007 LA Auto Show: BMW M3 Coupe & Sedan to Debut

The Fourth Generation Benchmark Performance Car - Now with a V-8

WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ - November 6, 2007. BMW will unveil one of the most anticipated new cars of the year as it raises the performance benchmark once again with the North American premieres of the 2008 M3 Coupe and Sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new 4th generation 2008 M3 Coupe and the all-new 4 door M3 Sedan will arrive in the spring of 2008 and will feature a high-revving V-8 engine developing 414-horsepower at 8,300rpm, a first in a series-production BMW M3 and the highest-performing M3 ever offered by BMW's M division.

The BMW M3 Coupe will feature a unique carbon fiber roof panel that reduces weight by 44lbs versus the optional steel roof panel with moonroof. Both the M3 Coupe and Sedan will feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls including steering, damping and stability (and an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the preferences) and a sports oriented interior that can be optimized to a driver's desires, including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW's latest iDrive controller.

Lightweight, efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3 The move to eight cylinders in the fourth generation BMW M3 provides a powerplant offering the seemingly disparate characteristics of more power, increased efficiency and reduced weight when compared with the previous six-cylinder M3 engine. Displacing 3,999 cubic centimeters (4.0 liters), the new light-alloy engine produces 414 hp at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm with 85 percent of the maximum torque available consistently through 6,500 rpm. This power output represents a 17% increase over the six-cylinder from the last generation M3 yet the new engine weighs 7% less and consumes 8% less fuel than its predecessor.

Manual transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential Lock Power from the BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan's V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The performance parameters of the M3 dictated heat management as a key design factor for both the transmission and clutch. The transmission features integrated temperature-dependent oil cooling management, while internal ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the twin-disc clutch.

The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces.

Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control
The electronic Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) monitors driving conditions and intervenes through the application of brakes and reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3 and help avoid major over- or under-steer situations.

In addition to engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated in the DSC are Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the Start-Off Assistant, which prevents the car from rolling back when setting off on a grade, as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents the car from spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.

The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even greater driving safety. Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an immediate response. The Dry Braking feature removes water film from the discs in wet conditions, thus reducing the chance of water interfering with the braking process.

Electronic Damper Control recognizing the driver's style of driving
The optional Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's chassis dynamics to his or her preference through one of three modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort.

The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the dynamics of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the response of the car to his personal preferences.

Interior design oriented an active driving experience with luxury
There is no question as to the heritage of the vehicle upon opening the door of the new BMW M3 thanks to the M car logo in the door sills. The unique nature of the vehicle carries to the dash where the dual circular instruments typical of BMW - the speedometer and fuel gauge as well as the tachometer and oil temperature display - are in specific M style. A feature typical of BMW M cars is the variable warning zone on the tachometer that informs the driver of the recommended engine speed depending on the engine oil temperature.

The M3's leather steering wheel, with its thumb contours resting firmly in the driver's hands, provides an optimum grip for precise movement of the steering wheel. The spokes within the steering wheel incorporate the remote control buttons for the audio system and mobile phone, as well as the optional MDrive button. An additional auxiliary button may be programmed through the optional BMW iDrive system.

A premium AM/FM/single-disc CD audio system comes standard with an auxiliary input jack. Individual entertainment options include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio and a USB-enabled port for control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player. These three options can be bundled together in the Technology Package, should one choose to have them all together.

For vehicles equipped with Navigation, the comprehensive information and entertainment systems are controlled by the refined BMW iDrive. Selecting the Navigation/iDrive option also brings the performance-oriented, steering-wheel-spoke-mounted Mdrive button.

Eicma: BMW F 800 GS and F 650 GS

Concept, claim and characteristics

With two completely new enduro models, the F 800 GS and F 650 GS, BMW Motorrad is not just expanding its range of products but also presenting a worthy successor to the successful single-cylinder F 650 GS.

Even when parked, the amazing off-road-capable parallel twin F 800 GS travel enduro, with its sturdy appearance and long spring travel, implies what it can do off-road. It hints at fun riding on all types of road with added stamina and durability on journeys where the destination can only be reached on gravel tracks.

The F 800 GS's smaller brother, the F 650 GS, which also has a parallel twin-cylinder engine, is aimed at people who do not need quite as much spring travel and are looking for a little less adventure. With its low seat height, it is an outstanding all-rounder; easy to control, provides plenty of power combined with economy, and is ideal for everyday use.
High levels of stability allied to easy handling are features shared by the two new GS models. Both offer high-quality workmanship, a safe chassis and impressive modern engines for maximum riding pleasure.

The parallel twins' drive comes from the well-established F 800 model series, but beyond this, the new enduro models have been completely redesigned. A new frame and new wheel suspension with new spring-shock absorber elements are strong features. They will surpass the expectations of even the most demanding enduro riders. The previous model's belt drive and single-strut swing arm, which are ideal for pure on-road use, have been replaced by a light chain drive in combination with a very stable and attractive aluminium profile, double-strut swing arm. These are more advantageous when off-road riding. The new GS models are not only in their element on twisty roads ­ it will also perform exceptionally off-road too.

The F 800 GS combines road and touring capabilities with superior off-road characteristics. It thus performs on both terrains in a way that has never before been achieved in its class. BMW Motorrad has positioned the versatile travel enduro at an attractive price, thus adding a real asset to the market.

The new F 650 GS differs from its higher capacity variant by featuring a lower seat height, lower weight and slightly reduced engine power. It is ideal for newcomers to the genre or as a sturdy all-round motorcycle for all purposes. Compared with its single-cylinder predecessor, the new F 650 GS is an improvement in every area. Despite its designation, which usually refers to the engine size, the F 650 GS has the same 800cc twin-cylinder engine as the F 800 GS. With slightly reduced engine power (71 instead of 85HP) the focus for the F 650 GS is on high torque at lower engine speeds coupled with excellent economy. Despite this it delivers over 20HP more power than its predecessor. The 800cc (sic) F 650 GS guarantees riding pleasure no matter where it goes.

Vehicle characteristics and technology

For BMW Motorrad, the GS designation is not an empty promise.

Eicma: BMW R 1200 GS

Stronger, livelier and more agile ­ more driving enjoyment on- and off-road.

With the new BMW R 1200 GS, BMW is writing another chapter in the success story that started in 1980 with the BMW R 80 G/S. The new, comprehensively reworked R 1200 GS meets all the requirements that an ideal travel enduro should meet. It offers superb performance, maximum comfort and a wide range of use on the longest trips and, with even better acceleration and agility, guarantees maximum enjoyment on twisting country and mountain roads. The optimised chassis and suspension properties guarantee the best possible handling both on and off-road.

The predecessor model ­ the R 1200 GS presented in 2004, of which over 75,000 were produced ­ already embodied an incredibly synthesis of off-road and on-road characteristics. And yet the new version outstrips its predecessor (still acknowledged as outstanding) in every major respect.

A torsion-proof chassis, the front wheel suspension with the unique BMW Telelever and rear wheel suspension with the BMW Paralever still offer first-class, safe handling. Extremely efficient brakes combined with the BMW Motorrad Integral ABS ensure maximum safety, even in critical driving situations. Excellent environmental compatibility is achieved through cutting-edge exhaust purification with a regulated three-way catalytic converter.

The proven maintenance-free cardan drive means that there is no need for scheduled maintenance work, which can be inconvenient and time consuming on extended trips and long-distance tours. As is traditional, BMW is again offering a reliable, ingenious luggage system for the new R 1200 GS, plus further made-to-measure accessories and special equipment.

The new engine ­ more powerful, higher revving and more dynamic

In terms of design principle, basic structure, power transmission and mixture preparation, the engine in the new R 1200 GS is based on that of the R 1200 R. However, improvements have been made to the engine management for use in the R 1200 GS with regard to the special requirements a large-volume travel enduro has to meet.

While the 1170cm3 boxer engine of the predecessor model offered superb power development in all conditions and situations, the new R 1200 GS can give much more. With a power output of 105HP, the maximum engine speed has increased to 8,000 rpm and provides an even wider engine speed range and completely revised transmission ratios. The result is that the R 1200 GS is even more dynamic than before, with more acceleration in the upper half of the speed range, and even better traction over the whole range.

In combination with the reworked six-gear transmission, the R 1200 GS thus offers the most dynamic performance of all the travel enduros.