Issue:
September/October 2003

Text:
Andi Seiler

Photography:
Christian Neuhauser

Pages:
70 - 73

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Concept & Transformation
Bavarians are known for their directness and for dealing with things in their own way. Their traditional motorcycle and car brand isn't any different. In bikes, they've proved their individuality with fresh, young, innovative designs. This uncompromising stance means motorcyclists either like it or don't. When the first R1100GS came out in 1994, quite a few people criticized the front plastics for resembling a duck's beak. But many liked and bought it – and its successor, the R1150GS – in big numbers. Changes in the looks of other examples in the range have also been dramatic; but the fact remains that the BMW guys go their own way and that perhaps, more than anything else, makes the brand so successful.

Building a new version around the big displacement boxer, the crew led by chief designer David Robb, an American, has created the R1150R Rockster. While basic parts (engine and chassis) come from the R1150R, design-wise the bike presents a distinctive street-fighter profile, which is a very popular look in Europe. And even here in the U.S. these designs are gaining popularity.
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