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Posted by Kenn Stamp
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Wednesday, 03 October 2007 |
 The dream of many Boxer fans has come true: With the new BMW HP2 Sport, BMW
Motorrad is putting the sportiest, most powerful and lightest Boxer series of
all times on the road. The third model of the HP model range was designed for
the ambitious sports rider and enthralls with numerous exclusive details that
were previously restricted to racing, 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, the forged aluminum wheels
and the racing brakes with radially bolted calipers.
 Wherever the eye of the
spectator 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 racer with racing
circuit talent.
The key engine data are very respectable: the engine achieves
more than 96 kW/128 hp at 8750 min–1 compared with the significantly modified
engine of the BMW R 1200 S. The maximum torque lies at 115 Nm at 6000 min–1, the
highest revs of the engine reaches a peak value at 9500 min–1.
Technically, the BMW HP2 Sport is based on the BMW R 1200 S. Customized to
meet the requirements of the ambitious sports rider down to the last detail, the
BMW HP2 Sport is however a completely independent and absolutely exceptional
motorcycle. Many detailed solutions are based on the experiences gained in
long-distance races.
 The most striking difference of the BMW HP2 Sport from
the endurance racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder heads: 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-optimized 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 aero-dynamics.
An inimitable boxer sound with new
acoustic quality is generated by the exhaust system and the striking design of
the rear silencer is impressive. Another exclusive racing feature is the
gearshift assistant together with the narrow ratios of the 6-speed gearbox to
enable fast gear changes without having to ease off the gas and operate the clutch. This  technology is offered for the first time in a series vehicle.
In order to adapt the gearshift pattern for the racing circuit, a suitable
replacement pressure sensor is available as special equipment if necessary.
The fully adjustable Öhlins sports chassis also has a Brembo monoblock brake
system with radially mounted, four-piston fixed calipers at the front.
Optimum ergonomics are ensured by the adjustable forged aluminum footrests,
the adjustable stock handlebar and the Magura brake levers with radial mounted
brake actuators.
The series dashboard that comes directly from MotoGP sport
provides the rider with important information and can also deliver lap times
plus other racing relevant data as well as the usual displays.
 Attention was paid consistently to the lightweight construction of all
components. This includes not only the self-supporting front fairing and the
likewise self-supporting carbon rear or the weight-optimised forged wheels, but
also hidden details such as the lightweight generator from the racing world.
That’s how it was possible to reduce the unladen weight of the HP2 Sport to DIN
standard with full tank (90%) to 199 kilos. The dry weight is a mere 178 kilos.
The interplay of variable ergonomic design, increased engine output and
the favourable centre of gravity of the Boxer guarantees superb handling and
racing potential. Even if racing fascination is clearly at the forefront of
the BMW HP2 Sport, it does not have to forgo the safety design feature of
ABS. The sophisticated anti-locking system specially adapted to the HP2 Sport
is available as an option and is configured so it can be switched off for the
racetrack.
The market introduction of the BMW HP2 Sport is scheduled for
2008.
Do you think this is the best looking BMW? Is this a BMW that you would buy? Check into the BMW HP2 Sport forum and talk about it.
From BMW Press
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