|
BMW R1150R Rockster: Bigger, Stronger and Stiffer Equals
Triple Take!
I think I found one word to describe the new BMW R1150R
Rockster: insatiable. I also think it’s probably, the most radical-looking
motorcycle the modern market has ever seen. But aside from being a
true engineering marvel, this bike is without a doubt an original
machine. It’s amazing what happens when you fire up the Rockster's
new two-spark engine. The most modern innovation in BMW boxer design,
this two-spark design raises the bar on reliability and performance.
And when we talk performance; Hallelujah!… the Rockster zooms
across the asphalt at a shade over 120 mph, dashing from 0–60
mph in as little as 4.1 seconds.
Those of us who still remember when the German maker made basically
one motorcycle painted in your choice of black, tend to be shocked
when faced with the R1150R. It's not black. It's not a friendly, familiar
face. It's not slow. In fact, no matter what angle you look at it,
even when standing still on its center stand, the Rockster embodies
velocity. Every corner, every angle, every perspective screams belligerence,
from the asymmetrical headlights to the lurid paintwork and graphics
in unique high-contrast black and citrus or black and orange war paint,
this 2 wheel missile has a unique presence.
A completely new handlebar design features a 4-way adjustable brake
lever and a 3-way adjustable clutch lever. Plus the Rockster comes
with heated grips, in case cool weather and high speed have a chilling
effect on your fingers. Above the headlamps is a small wind deflector
that houses an instrument panel, which, in suitably peculiar fashion,
combines a black-faced speedometer and white-faced tachometer.
This new Bimmer comes equipped with BMW Telelever (up front) and Paralever
(rear) suspension system, as well as a high-tech chassis that carries
the same spring strut up front as the BMW's streamlined racing model
the R1100S.
Most of the Rockster's components, including its 1130cc, eight-valve,
air-cooled engine come from the R1150R. This is the first of BMW's
boxer motors to be fitted with the new twin-spark cylinder heads that
will be introduced throughout the range this year. They're claimed
to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by giving more uniform combustion,
but the motor's performance, including its peak power output of 85bhp
at 6750rpm, is unchanged.
Chassis bits are also borrowed mostly from the R-bike, including the
tubular steel space-frame with its Telelever front and single-sided
rear suspension systems. Some parts are from the sportier R1100S,
though, including the smaller front mudguard, the Telelever stanchions
and the wider, 5.5-inch rear wheel, which wears a 180/55-section Michelin
Pilot Sport in place of the standard model's 170.
Ergonomics are slightly altered by the Rockster's flatter handlebars
and a seat, which at 835mm, is 35mm taller than the R's. This bike
is not particularly light by naked bike standards, either, but its
generous steering lock was helpful in traffic. And when the lights
changed the Rockster stomped forward pretty rapidly. It pulled cleanly
from below 2000 RPM, with a flat note from its twin pipes, working
best between three and five thousand RPM.
   
On the open road the Rockster performs like all BMWs
have always performed - superbly. It has a highway texture that is
extremely satisfying. There is nothing frenzied about anything it
does, nothing hasty, nothing is beyond its capabilities and nothing
is permitted to intrude on its effortless, quiet passage. It doesn't
devour distance so much as it rises above it, and there is no sense
of weakening as the miles passes you by.
This is true not exclusively of the Rockster - it is true of all BMWs,
and it's one reason why BMW owners keep buying new BMWs even though
their hard earned money or rather savings accounts take a serious
toll. But they all know the product endures. This loyalty and brand
is very special. And most importantly, BMW buyers never feel ripped
off, surprised in an unpleasant way, unfulfilled or even faintly disappointed.
They have a vision of what they're getting, and if there's a gap between
vision and reality, it can be promptly and pleasantly negotiated.
Typical BMW touches include a generously sized seat for both rider
and pillion (shame there's no grab rail), and optional heated grips.
On longer trips you're more likely to be annoyed by the motor's thirst,
which has traditionally limited the R-bike's 5.3-gallon tank's range
to less than 200 miles. Maybe the twin-plug heads will help fuel consumption
slightly.
When we tried the Rockster on a straight-line, we felt it was decent
without being razor sharp, then much the same was true of a chassis
that gave the bike a very stable feel, plus enough agility to make
for some fun in the bends. Much credit for that goes to the Telelever
front end, which was a bit harsh on the wrists at slow speeds, but
whose lack of brake dive made for solid and precise handling.
I particularly like the way the single-shock rear end worked; I felt
a fairly firm ride and it sure soaked most of the nasty bumps effortlessly
despite the weight of the drive-shaft assembly. Cornering clearance
was good enough that only the footrests touched down even when the
bike was cranked over far enough to make the Pilot Sport tires work
hard. There's a hydraulic remote preload adjuster, as well as adjustment
for rebound damping.
And let’s not forget the awesome EVO brake system which delivered
an impressive blend of servo-assisted stopping power from the front
320mm discs and four-piston calipers, with occasional help from the
optional ABS system to calm the sharp rear. Most other details were
present, correct and typically BMW, including the small but useful
mirrors, traditional annoying switchgear, and what promises to be
an excellent level of finish.
One thing that's hardly a BMW trait is that the Rockster is priced
very competitively. An eccentric naked bike like this is not for everyone,
but don't be misled by the styling. This Rockster is built for people
who are attracted to a vicious image, yet deep down really want something
civil and sophisticated. And if that's what you’re looking for,
then this Rockster will put a big smile on your face!
BMW R1150R Rockster Specifications:
Engine type: Air-cooled boxer
Valves: high cam, 8 valves
Displacement: 1130cc
Bore x stroke: 101 x 70.5mm
Compression ratio: 10.3:1
Carburetion: Motronic fuel-injection
Maximum power: 85bhp @ 6750rpm
Maximum torque: 73lb.ft @ 5250rpm
Clutch: Dry single plate
Transmission: 6-speed
Front suspension: Telelever single shock, 120mm spring travel, adjustment
for rebound damping
Rear suspension: One damper, 135mm spring travel, remote adjustment
for preload and rebound damping
Front brake: 2, four-piston Brembo calipers, 320mm discs, EVO servo
system, ABS option
Rear brake: Twin-piston Brembo caliper, 276mm disc
Front wheel: 3.50 x 17in; cast aluminum
Rear wheel: 5.50 x 17in; cast aluminum
Front tire: 120/70 x 17in Michelin Pilot Sport
Rear tire: 180/55 x 17in Michelin Pilot Sport
Wheelbase: 1486mm
Seat height: 835mm
Fuel capacity: 20.5 liters
Weight: 535 lbs.
Greg Sanchez is the Publisher of Lets Talk Cars
|
|