BMW's pursuit of more power, better handling, less weight, improved aerodynamics and increased weather protection, which was first exemplified with the launch of the R 1200 GS in January 2004, was again evident with the launch of the R 1200 RT earlier this year. The research and development which has gone into these new-look models has been applied to a newcomer to BMW's range, the R 1200 ST.
It is a newcomer in the sense that there has not been a "ST" model before. In actual fact the "ST" is a replacement for the R 1150 RS.
The R 1200 ST uses a more powerful version of the same engine as the RR 1200 GS. BMW describe the ST as "a long distance sprinter", which seems a contradiction in terms since, for humans at any rate, sprinters do not make long distance contenders. Seemingly for BMW such rules do not apply! BMW say their aim is 'to provide a high level of touring comfort with effortless agility and outstanding dynamics on all surfaces' and 'to provide a motorcycle capable of covering long distances in comfort but without sacrificing the dynamism, agility and excitement associated with sports riding'.
Power output of the 4-valve, flat-twin engine is 110bhp, with 115Nm of torque at 6,000rpm. With the dry weight at 205kg, we have the equivalent of 537bhp per tonne. Advanced aerodynamics are claimed to give outstanding weather protection. Many components such as the screen, handlebars, footrests, seat, brake and clutch levers are adjustable.
Optional extras include sports integral ABS, a luggage rack, heated grips, anti-theft alarm system, a centre stand and a chrome exhaust pipe.
Electronic engine management and the ability to run on low grade, 95 RON fuels and a 3-way catalytic converter are standard. Fuel consumption is claimed to be 5.1 litres per 100 km (55.3mpg) at a steady 120 km/h.
The six-speed gearbox incorporates helical-cut gears and 6th gear, as on the R 1200 RT, is an extra-short gear. The ratios allow for rapid acceleration, the 0-100 km/h is down to 3.5 seconds, a figure precious few sports machines can touch.
Typical BMW suspension, Telelever at the front and Evo-Paralever rear swinging arm rear suspension, the latter now with 'travel-dependent damper technology' (TTD) are designed to ensure that the suspension responds smoothly and comfortably to even the smallest bumps in the road whilst still offering generous reserves for bad roads and tracks with surface grooves.
BMW's proven EVO brake system with integral ABS (available as an option) make for much safer braking in all conditions. The electrics rely on the new CAN-bus single wire system first seen on the R 1200 GS which simplifies the wiring harness and makes for simpler diagnosis and a fuse-free system. An electronic imobiliser is standard. The speedo is a round analogue design, the rev counter is an oval analogue and the LCD panel gives oil temperature, tank level, remaining fuel range, time of day and gear selected information. Overall and trip mileages are available on demand.
The distinctive headlight consists of two H4 units stacked vertically which gives the R 1200 ST an unmistakable and unique appearance.
In all a sophisticated, technically innovative, quality package. It performed well on our test ride. We were most impressed with the travel-dependent damper technology. This coped well especially on poor and broken surfaces. The bike simply held its line without any fuss or bother even on atrocious surfaces. Our pillion passenger appreciated the fact that the pillion seat is not of the ski-slope variety and that the rear carrier / grabrail arrangements gives a real feeling of security. The mirrors gave an excellent view, other sports bike manufacturers please note that it is possible to see more than one's elbows.
In performance terms the ST was a delight. It is deceptively fast; even at the end of a long test we were still surprised to see how much faster we were travelling than it seemed. The engine braking effect, always much better with a shaft drive machine, was so good that even when travelling very briskly through winding, mountain roads the brakes were barely touched.
We were somewhat disappointed with the aerodynamics of the small, manually adjustable screen. Its shape and profile, echoing the diamond shaped, stacked, twin headlight seems more of a design exercise than the result of any wind-tunnel testing. It creates too much turbulence in both the up and down positions.
That apart, this is a very fast sports bike that gives a safe and exhilarating ride and one which is much better suited to longer distances than the vast majority of sports bikes.
TECH SPEC
ENGINE 1,170cc 4-valve, flat-twin (Boxer) producing 81kW (110bhp) at 7,500rpm and 115Nm torque (85 lb-ft) at 6,000rpm. Fuel injected. Six-speed gearbox. Shaft drive.
CHASSIS BMW Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension. Front, twin 320mm discs, rear single 265mm disc, BMW integral ABS.
DIMENSIONS Wheelbase 1,502mm. Seat Height 806-830mm, weight in road trim 229kg, tank capacity 21 litres.
PERFORMANCE 0-100km/h in 3.5secs, Standing-start km 22.1km.
PRICE: €15,600 Optional extras: Chrome exhaust €120, Heated grips €290, Ant-theft alarm €260, Main centre stand €110, Integral ABS (partial) €1,170, Luggage grid €120.