When you think of BMW, the first thing that may come to mind are the many high performance automobiles they build. However, if you are familiar with BMW’s line of motorcycles, you may think of a comfortable commuter/touring bike or their renowned “Moto” lineup. In either case, the furthest thing from your mind would be a bold heavyweight, wicked fast piece of high-end machinery capable of running with (and possibly surpassing in some areas) the kings of the drag strip – the Suzuki Hayabusa and Kawasaki ZX-14. Well, that’s exactly what BMW has masterfully created in the 2009 K 1300 S.

I must admit I was skeptical when I tossed a leg over this beastly beauty. Could something as refined as a BMW hang with a ‘Busa? Surely it couldn't keep up with a ZX-14 and still provide the technical advancements one would expect from a BMW. Well it does, and with style and comfort I might add. The 1293cc inline four-cylinder produces 175 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and gets you moving quickly by providing almost instantaneous low and mid range power that continues effortlessly well into the triple digits. With the aforementioned numbers and factoring in a curb weight of 560 pounds compared to the Hayabusa's 573, it's easy to see why the comparison to such bikes are drawn. However, the K 1300 S is not all about the speed, but also offers everyday usable performance. 

The technical advancements alluded to earlier that provide this daily performance, comfort and safety include an electronically adjustable second-generation electronic suspension adjustment system with various on-the-fly suspension settings including Sport, Normal and Comfort. Aiding your safety is anti-spin control and BMW's “Motorrad” integral anti-lock braking system which can be disengaged if desired. An on-board computer with tire pressure monitoring, time, fuel, ambient temperature, and multiple trip odometer keeps you informed and heated hand grips keeps your paws toasty warm. My all-time favorite tech wizardry is the “Gear Shift Assistant,” which allows you to “clutch up” without engaging the clutch regardless of speed. The system works by cutting fuel and ignition momentarily via a sensor positioned in vicinity of the clutch allowing the bike to slide into the next upper gear. The optimized exhaust system dons a new rear muffler and electronically controlled flap management with fully controlled three-way catalytic converter creates a surprisingly low throaty sound for a stock system, warning others of its menacing side.

BMW's “Big Boy” isn't without its faults, however. I had a consistent problem positioning my right footing for the rear brake given the design position of the lower portion of the right fairing and its proximity to the rear brake. Additionally, the engine casing juts out further than preferred, forcing me to take a wider stance at stop lights and readjust my leg position occasionally while riding. Our Bimmer also met with some visual criticisms regarding the styling of its rear seat from hardcore sport bikers. 

In light of these inconveniences and styling critiques, with a base MSRP of $15,250, this is certainly one bike to consider as it allows you to gracefully enjoy the curves and those long stretches of open road while taking in the scenery at a leisurely or blistering fast yet comfortable pace or for commuting through the urban jungle.

For more information visit www.bmwmotorcycles.com