Issue:
July/August 2007

Text:
Christa Neuhauser

Photography:
Kevin Wing

Pages:
86 - 89

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For many two-wheel enthusiasts, it is heartwarming to know that the venerable producer of premium and powerful cars is willing to flex its motorcycle muscles, too. Sure, they're very proud of their long, two-wheeled tradition, but a different attitude is blowing the dust from the model range and opening the minds of those working in the R and D department. The results? A constantly widening range of new rides.

The changes started in 2003 – with the completely redesigned R1200GS – are continuing with more models straying from the strictly drawn Bavarian line of being "high and heavy, with moderate power." It also doesn't hurt that there's been an infusion of new personnel in the development stages, a bike-addicted group of experienced racers from the track and off-road realms. Now, it's no longer unusual to have high-power output, as evidenced by the current K-Series, or nimble, lightweight bikes like the 650 single-powered G-range.

While there's no arguing that BMW has a firm grasp on the big bike touring segment, their foray into smaller bike territory had been less impressive. Granted, the single-cylinder F650 models have been steady troopers, but they're heavy for their size....