2005 BMW R1150 R

BMW R1150 R - the naked truth

BMW's unfaired boxer twin, the R1150 R is a sophisticated response to the continuously expanding retro market. Unhampered by the bulk of a fairing or integrated bodywork, the R1150 R is a boxer with plenty of muscle and no little fleetness of foot. Its minimalism is only an illusion though. The visually appealing R has more advanced features than other machines of the same genre.

The R1150 R retails at £7,210 on-the-road and continues the trend set by a new generation of BMWs for outstanding stability and definitive aerodynamics. Allied to a supremely comfortable riding position, the new R has a low centre of gravity and is an effortless motorcycle to ride. The machine is conclusive proof that a return to basics doesn't have to mean a lack of enjoyment, practicality or sophistication.

The driving force

The air and oil-cooled 1130cc flat-twin, with four valves per cylinder engine has now gained dual ignition. This improves pollution control and meets current and future EC standards.

Two oil coolers are incorporated into the air ducts in the side tank covers and the warm air inevitably produced is channelled past the rider. The covers also provide a degree of wind protection while enhancing the R1150 R's overall aerodynamic performance. When riding it is sometimes difficult to believe that the machine is naked and open to the elements.

Efficient distribution of the power increase can be attributed to the MA 2.4 Motronic digital engine management - already a proven system on other BMWs in the current range. To help protect the environment the R1150 R has exhaust emission control - via a closed loop, three-way catalytic converter - fitted as standard.

Transmission of power

For efficient transmission of the engine's power to the road, the R employs a new six-speed gearbox with a light, precision shift action. To emphasise the R1150 R's sports roadster character, sixth gear is geared "low". However, as an optional extra to improve fuel economy and make touring more comfortable, an alternative "overdrive" top gear can be ordered. This means that owners can configure the machine to suit their riding style - whether sports or touring.

A standard feature on all BMW flat-twin motorcycles is the low maintenance shaft drive. The unit is particularly reliable and long lasting, and employs a back-to-front crankshaft layout that enables the power to reach the rear wheel with no losses caused by changes of direction.

Braking with convention

The servo-assisted EVO front brake is original equipment on the R1150 R and has become the latest evolutionary stage in modern brake-system development. It has two, large diameter brake discs (320mm) and new four-piston calipers that provide supreme braking control from light to extra-powerful. Compared with conventional designs, the same amount of effort applied to the brake lever will produce up to 20 per cent more braking force. As a consequence, the new EVO front wheel brake not only provides the rider with peace of mind but delivers extra stopping power and improved safety.

BMW's advanced, third generation anti-lock braking system - a partly integrated version of Integral ABS - complements and enhances EVO braking and is available as a £750 optional extra.

In the frame

BMW has retained the proven concept of using the load bearing engine and transmission unit and connecting them to the front and rear frames. The Paralever swing arm has been adopted from the R1150 GS and although the swing arm is now 14mm (0.55") shorter, wheelbase and steering geometry remain unchanged.

A new, rear spring strut has the same 135mm (5.31") spring travel as its predecessor and can be infinitely and easily adjusted for outward stroke damping by means of a setting bolt. A wheel, acting on the hydraulic spring system, adjusts preload. Damping for the front and rear spring struts is now linear (as opposed to "progressive" on the previous model) and benefits the rider with improved wheel tracking and stability - particularly on poor surfaces.

BMW's legendary Telelever has also been slightly upgraded. The longitudinal control arm of the Telelever has now been configured in steel tube. This provides a delicate, yet stable look with excellent solidity, contributing greatly to the visually appealing front end of the R1150 R.

In the cockpit

Sublime ergonomics have made the riding position of a BMW motorcycle an industry benchmark. The R1150 R continues to emphasise this tradition by creating a sporty, comfortable and relaxed body posture - all of which help to make a significant contribution to the machine's outstanding ride characteristics.

An important factor in this is the new steel tube handlebar, which is canted even lower at the ends. Grab width has been increased by 56mm (2.2") and the grips lowered by 40mm (1.57") (compared to the previous model).

Adjustable handlebar levers (four positions) and controls are the same as on the R1150 GS. A chromed instrument layout emphasises the retro look, while switchgear conforms to the current BMW logic and includes hazard-warning flashers.

A 20.4 litre (4.5 Imp gals) fuel tank should endow the R1150 R with a touring range of between 170 and 225 miles - depending on riding style.

Special equipment and accessories

Special equipment and accessories include heated grips, tank bag, speedster windscreen, black engine and transmission (no cost), Integral ABS (sports), overdrive (no cost), luggage rack, higher and lower seat height options (no cost), a high-comfort passenger seat, cylinder protectors, system cases and inner bags, softcase and a pillion seat cover (used when the passenger seat is removed).

The R1150 R comes in a choice of Dark ferro metallic (special edition, additional £250); Titanium silver metallic; Night black and Piemont red metallic colour schemes.

Standard Factory Equipment

Factory fit options

*Prices current as of 1 January 2004.

Accessories available

Prices current as of 1 January 2004.

Specifications