2007 BMW R 1200 S 

Prior to the dashing red-and-silver streak before you, BMW’s twin-cylinder sportbike was the R1100S, introduced in 1999. It was a groundbreaker by virtue of having BMW’s most powerful opposed flat twin to date, with a claimed 98 horsepower at the crank and 500 rpm higher redline of 8,400. It was also the first boxer with a six-speed transmission. These features alone suggested that the German company was serious about the sporting intent of the R1100S, but this is also a class in which BMW will only go so far with its R-series bikes. Their traditional shaft final drives and BMW’s insistence upon long-distance comfort-or at least the intention of it-limits any boxer “sportbike” BMW produces to more of a sport-touring role, at least when compared to motorcycles most riders consider true sportbikes.

The same is probably true of the all-new 2007 R1200S, but if I hadn’t told you, you may never have found out. Once again we have BMW’s most powerful boxer engine to date, now with a claimed 122 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque at the crank, in the “hex head” engine introduced in the 2005 R1200GS. At 482 pounds ready to ride with a full tank, weight is down from the R1100S by a claimed 29 pounds, and cornering clearance is increased. Twin mufflers are stacked under that very businesslike tailsection in serious sportbike style, which only allows the addition of a seatbag-no hard luggage will be offered. Yet the bike retains a very reasonable seating position that is much more comfortable than the awkward ergonomics of its R1100S predecessor, and still has the trademark Paralever single-sided swingarm instead of a chain. Granted it’s the lighter and more aggressive-looking EVO version from the GS, with its top-mounted torque arm and 50mm hole in the final drive, but the number of current “sportbikes” with shaft finals can be counted on one hand. BMW says that because of these things its version is a “sportbike with character.”

So which is it, sportbike or sport tourer? As you may have surmised, the R1200S Character Sport is both. On the gas the bike’s only limitations are the traditional BMW driveline-which has some lash and requires deliberate shifts using the clutch-and the harshness of the standard suspension, easily fixed by throwing some dollars in the √Oñhlins package. A 6-inch-wide rear wheel for mounting a 190/50-size tire is available for incurable go-fasters, too. For getting there, the bike is far more comfortable than much of the competition, and is further enhanced in this area with that decent little windscreen, optional soft luggage and heated grips. Whether you look at it as a comfy sportbike or a racy sport tourer, the R1200S is a complete package.

This R1200S is in perfect condition, it runs and rides perfect. Call John fo details 770 447 6945