Road Test: John Donald goes cruising on the new R 1200 C from Bavaria.
"Nice bike," said the man at the West Link toll booth. "Is that the R 1200 C with all the gear on it?" Given that I was riding the first model registered in Ireland, I was impressed by his observation.
Indeed, he was not the only one whose eye was caught by the new R 1200 CL luxury cruiser, one of three new BMW models being launched here this month -the others being the K 1200GT and R 1100 S Boxer Cup Replica.
In appearance, the CL is a contradiction. Observe it travelling on the open road and it looks strikingly handsome and agile in the best European traditions of BMW. Yet, resting on its side stand, it appears decidedly American - as well it might, given that the US is its primary market.
Based on the R 12000 C sports cruiser - of which 31,000 models have been sold since 1997 - the R 1200 CL could be said to mark the point where Harley Davidson and the Honda Goldwing meet. Its low-slung body, 29-inch saddle height, bulbous fuel tank and chrome-finished surfaces give it an appeal more in keeping with the expectations of Route 66 cruisers than M50 commuters.
Our test ride on the R 1200 CL involved two trips to Newry and back, mixed with city and suburban driving. Overall impressions were of a bike designed for long-distance cruising. Though big and heavy to manoeuvre, handling became effortless and well balanced once the gears were engaged. Power is by a six-speed, low-revving, 1,170 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine whose most notable feature is plenty of pull-away power as distinct from top end speed or acceleration.
Appealing to the 7-series biker who seeks all-round comfort, ease-of-handling and truly effortless cruising, it has a 17.5-litre fuel tank with an official range of between 150-200 miles. However, our test version was somewhat less economical, recording just over 130 miles from a full tank, albeit with two up in somewhat blustery conditions.
Aerodynamics play a big part in the design of the R 1200 CL. Its most striking feature is a sweeping handlebar-mounted fairing whose contoured windscreen and four headlights design present a frontal aspect worthy of the Star Ship Enterprise.
Seating is comfortable with arms and feet positioned well forward of the body to provide a relaxed riding posture. Footboards and a rocker arm gear change add to its image as a boulevard cruiser. A raised pillion seat gives passengers a clear forward view.
Overall ride comfort is helped by a progressive damping rear suspension with increased spring travel and manual pre-load adjustment. Wheels are cast aluminium - 16-inch front and 15-inch rear - to which larger profile tyres are fitted. Other technical features include power-assisted braking with partially integrated ABS and BMW's hallmark telelever front suspension.
At €19,310 ex-works for the standard version, the R 1200 CL is wired for sound, and can be fitted with an optional radio stereo/CD changer and on-board communications system. Other optional items include a fully-integrated ABS system, anti-theft alarm and immobiliser, heated grips, cruise control, heated seats, chrome package, cylinder protection hoops and inner pannier bags.
Aside from the cult following that Harley Davidson enjoys - one that must be the envy of every motorcycle manufacturer - cruisers do not enjoy great popularity on the Irish market. Whether or not the R 1200 CL can break that mould remains to be seen. Given the price that one must pay for the options inclusive version, we cannot foresee a long waiting list - especially when those options include the polished chrome features that are the hallmark of every classic cruiser. That said, the R 1200 CL was a truly delightful machine to ride and one with which we were reluctant to part.
TechSpec
Engine: Air/oil cooled 2-cylinder, 4-stroke boxer engine; 61bhp at 5000 rpm, 98 Nm torque at 3000
Performance: Max speed 102 mph - 0-62 mph in 6.3 seconds
Consumption: 55 mpg at 56 mph
Dimensions: Length: 7' 11"
Suspension: Telelever system with single spring strut/ twin fork sliders (front)and monolever swinging arm with single spring strut (rear)
Price: €19,310 ex-works (standard)