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BMW Motorrad

BMW Malaysia has formally introduced the all-new 2023 BMW M 1000 R for the Malaysian market more than six months after its global introduction back in October. 

  • The M 1000 R makes 205hp and 112Nm.
  • Features wider handlebar, taller peak torque and unique electronic package.
  • The roadster/hypernaked machine is the second M-branded motorcycle introduced by BMW after the M 1000 RR.

While the M 1000 R makes used of the M 1000 RR 999cc powertrain, the engine has been reworked to provide a higher peak torque from 10,000rpm to 12,000rpm.  As a result, the engine is now quieter and with a higher redline of 14,600rpm,  well over the S 1000 R’s 12,000rpm limit. 

The M 1000 R also features shorter gear ratios in 4th, 5th and 6th gear and shorter rear sprocket than the S 1000 R.  Also fitted as standard on the M 1000 R is BMWs Shift Assistant Pro, allowing an up-and-down clutchless shifts and can be adjusted from conventional gear to GP gear. 

Electronically, the M 1000 R gets several riding modes including Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race with the addition of track-centric Race Pro 1, Race Pro 2 and Race Pro 3.  Other electronic features inlcude Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with 6-axis sensor and lean angle sensor. The DTC package includes wheelie-limitation function, pit lane limiter, launch control and hill-start control (HSC).

Of course, the most notable aspect of the new M 1000 R is the existence of aero winglets on the side panels.  BMW claimed that the winglets are not purely for aesthetic purposes but also adds 10kg of downforce at 218km/h. 

The M 1000 R is suspended by an all-black 45mm upside-down fork (preload/compression/rebound adjustable) with 119mm of travel and a rear shock with 116mm of travel.  In addition, BMW also threw in the Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) (electronic suspension) as standard. 

Braking is done with twin 320mm steel disc mated to a 4-pot callipers up front and single 220mm steel disc with aluminium single-piston floating callipers at the rear.  That said, ABS Pro comes as standard including Brake Slide Assist that allow riders to slide the M 1000 R into the turns. 

Meanwhile, information is delivered to the rider via a 6.4-inch TFT instrument display with customizable display options. 

The 2023 BMW M 1000 R is arrives in Sole Lightwhite  and  M Motorsport colour scheme.

After four successful season with Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Team, Toprak Razgatlioglu is set to leave the team and joins BMW Motorrad Motorsport for the 2024 season. 

  • The Turkish rider took home 31 race win and 47 podium finish with Yamaha. 
  • The decision to join BMW further ending any notion of jumping to MotoGP. 

Starting from 2024, Toprak will compete on the BMW M 1000 RR representing the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.

Since his debut in WorldSBK in 2018, Razgatlioglu has consistently demonstrated his talent. In his first season alone, he achieved podium finishes, setting the stage for his remarkable career. With an impressive record of 33 wins and a total of 93 podium finishes out of 168 WorldSBK races, Razgatlioglu has established himself as one of the finest riders in the field.

Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, expressed his warm welcome to Razgatlioglu, stating, “We are delighted to welcome him to our WorldSBK factory squad from next season on. I am very proud that Toprak has opted to join BMW Motorrad. This is a forward-looking step for our project and a strong commitment of BMW Motorrad Motorsport in World Superbike.”

Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director, acknowledged Razgatlioglu’s exceptional skills and praised his personality on and off the track. Bongers emphasized the anticipation surrounding the collaboration and the promising future that lies ahead for the team.

Further announcements regarding the allocation of other rider-team partnerships will be made in due course. The arrival of Toprak Razgatlioglu to the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family signals an exciting chapter for the team as they gear up for the challenges and triumphs of the upcoming WorldSBK seaso

BMW has offered a sneak peek of its highly anticipated R NineT successor, the new R 12 NineT, set for release in 2024.

BMW R 12 nineT

The R 12 NineT follows in the footsteps of the classic roadster styling of its predecessor, the R NineT, providing a platform for customization. 

The new model boasts an updated frame design that includes a removable rear subframe, offering customizers more freedom to create. The solo seat, with an integrated LED taillight, has a thicker appearance than the current NineT’s saddle, and a rear pad is incorporated into the tail cover. 

BMW R 12 nineT

New side panels covering the rear suspension add to the retro feel, and the black fuel tank, with metallic knee cutout surfaces, adds to the classic look.

The R 12 NineT maintains its air/oil-cooled Boxer motor, though it is not yet clear whether there are any changes to the engine’s displacement. 

BMW R 12 nineT

The new model has a modernized intake system and updated exhaust system with conical end caps. A new housing design on the left side hints at a modified transmission, though further details have not been released. The R 12 NineT also features an inverted Marzocchi fork and a cardan shaft drive.

BMW R 12 nineT

BMW has stayed true to the classic round headlight design and dual round instrument dials, with the tachometer now showing double digit numbers marking every 100 rpm instead of single digits marking every 1,000 rpm. 

BMW says the new R 12 NineT is designed to give riders an authentic roadster feel, resembling R models from the ’70s.

The German automaker is expected to reveal full technical specifications and pricing later in the year.

BMW Motorrad is rumored to be developing a new lightweight frame that will integrate with a three-cylinder engine for an upcoming motorcycle. 

According to Cycle World, the patent application shows a half-frame that directly bolts onto the engine using massive bolts that also connect the cylinder head to the block, resulting in a design that is lighter and more compact than conventional motorcycle chassis.

According to the patent images, the design features a conventional transverse engine, but instead of wrapping an aluminum or steel structure around it, a simple cast-alloy front chassis is attached directly to the engine. This provides a direct connection to the steering head, allowing the swingarm to pivot on the gearbox, with the engine serving as the stressed member. 

The design aims to minimize the bike’s width, a common issue for bikes with transverse-mounted inline engines. It also reduces the parts count and weight, making the design more efficient. BMW’s patent hints at using this new chassis design for a three-cylinder engine, which will further reduce the bike’s width, making it more aerodynamic and less complex than bikes with V-twin or V-4 engines.

BMW has had successful four-cylinder engines like the S 1000 RR, but a three-cylinder engine would be narrower, providing an opportunity for the company to create a narrower bike. BMW has explored the use of three-cylinder engines before, notably in its MotoGP project in the early 2000s. The project yielded a prototype that was later dropped due to technical issues, but it provided the company with the knowledge base needed to develop the S 1000 RR.

Since then, rumors have circulated about a three-cylinder BMW sportbike, with little evidence to support them. However, this patent application, with its specific mention of a three-cylinder engine, provides the first real indication that such a motorcycle is under development.

(source: Cycle World)

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has launched the New BMW R 1250 R and BMW R 1250 RS, both designed to complement the dynamic nature of sports tourers with innovative features. 

According to Hans de Visser, the Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, the company’s heritage has been defined by a century of relentless innovation, which has enabled them to deliver powerful advancements tailored to the diverse desires of motorcycling enthusiasts worldwide.

The New BMW R 1250 R presents a more advanced and honed version of the purist roadster from BMW Motorrad, providing even more roadster pleasure for solo or pillion riding on winding country roads. The New BMW R 1250 RS, on the other hand, promises to deliver the ultimate sporty, dynamic touring experience.

The New BMW R 1250 R and BMW R 1250 RS are standard equipped with the BMW Integral ABS Pro braking system, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) for safety and excellent traction. 

Riding Modes Pro is also included, offering individually configurable riding modes, and the innovative BMW ShiftCam engine technology enhances fuel efficiency.

A TFT colour display is included as standard for connectivity and navigation, with customised screen displays for different purposes. The Comfort, Touring, and Dynamic packages, which include features such as Keyless Ride, Cruise Control, and case holders, are also included as standard.

The New BMW R 1250 R and BMW R 1250 RS are available in Sport and Triple Black model variants, each with unique body colours. The BMW R 1250 R and R 1250 RS is priced at RM114,500 and RM118,500, respectively. 

English rider Peter Hickman’s winning motorcycle at the 2022 Isle of Man TT races has fetched a staggering GBP112,700 (RM627k) at The International Classic Motorcycle Show’s Spring Stafford Sale on April 22, 2023. 

  • The bike was prepared by Gas Monkey Garage by FHO Racing and is a BMW M 1000 RR that Hickman rode to victories in the Superbike and Senior TT classes.
  • The motorcycle is a Superbike World Championship-spec machine that boasts a reinforced chassis, a Suter swingarm, and Öhlins suspension.

 

In addition, BMW specially prepared the engine and airbox, and an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system along with a larger fuel tank and an STM clutch to meet the demands of the Snaefell Mountain course.

The motorcycle’s authenticity was confirmed by the bug guts splattered across the front fairing and the chain grease/road debris speckling the under-tail. 

Interestingly, the new owner has chosen to remain anonymous. Nevertheless, Hickman’s winning bike is definitely an every collectors dream.

Hickman has been on a winning streak since the 2018 Isle of Man TT, accumulating nine TT wins in just five years. 

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic sidelining IOMTT races for two consecutive years, Hickman continued to dominate the field in 2022, winning the Supertwin, Superstock, Superbike, and Senior TT classes. 

With the 2023 Isle of Man TT just around the corner, there is a chance that another Hickman-ridden motorcycle could make it back to the auction block soon.

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has launched two new touring motorcycles, the New BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL priced at RM174,500 and RM183,500 respectively. 

  • These two motorcycles have stylish designs and cutting-edge agility that offer an exceptional touring experience.
  • The narrowest six-cylinder in-line engine in its series production, the new variants offer absolutely superior touring characteristics and riding capabilities combined with segment-leading performance.
*BMW K 1600 GT

The BMW K 1600 GT is an agile and dynamic variant of the six-cylinder design, equipped with an upgraded fully-LED headlight that illuminates corners, while the BMW K 1600 GTL is specifically engineered for exceptional shared riding experiences, designed to comfortably transport two people across roads and valleys with style.

*BMW K 1600 GTL

The new variants come with Engine Protection Guard, low electrically adjustable windscreens, and fully LED headlights that feature the Light Icon and Adaptive Cornering Lights, along with Daytime Riding Lights, LED Auxiliary Lights, Ground-Level Lighting as well as additional fog lights.

The four configurable Favourites buttons also allow for easy access to vehicle functions, while the onboard computer and 10.25-inch coloured TFT display provide excellent connectivity as well as an integrated navigation system with the BMW Motorrad Connected application. Bluetooth function is also available for telephony and music playback, along with WiFi for navigation.

The oil/water cooled four-stroke in-line six-cylinder engine sits at the heart of the two new variants with two overhead camshafts placed above the drive shaft, bearing a capacity of 1,649 cc that is capable of 118 kW (160 hp) at 6,750 rpm. The maximum torque of 180 Nm at 5,250 rpm develops an incomparable and effortless push force, allowing the new variants to reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

Fuel consumption for both variants is exemplary, measuring at 5.9 litres per 100 km of travel. Revised according to EU-5 regulations, emission control is offered via a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter to output approximately 137g per kilometre of travel. The alternator is a 700W three phase-alternator (nominal power) paired with a maintenance-free 12 V/26 Ah battery.

The centrepiece of the suspension is the cast aluminium bridge-type frame. Front suspension is offered to the New BMW K 1600 GT via the BMW Motorrad Duolever on a central spring strut suspension, while rear suspension is offered via a cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever.

The BMW K 1600 GTL is equipped with the BMW Motorrad Duolever at the front, paired with a central shock absorber with helical spring. At the rear, a central spring strut with coil spring equips the New BMW K 1600 GTL, featuring adjustable rebound stage damping and spring preload – making for optimum damping comfort and stable handling.

The New BMW K 1600 GT arrives in two distinct colourways, namely the classic Black Storm Metallic and the Style Sport that features a striking combination of light white, racing blue metallic and racing red body colours and highlights. 

The New K 1600 GTL, on the other hand, is available in Black Storm Metallic and Gravity Blue Metallic (Style Exclusive). Additionally, the new special edition Option 719 Meteoric Dust will also be made available for both the New BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL.

GALLERY: BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL

 

BMW is set to launch its latest motorcycle security feature using advanced facial recognition technology. 

  • the system will be use to unlock and start a motorcycle. 
  • the system will also notify owners in case of any attempt to start or move the bike. 

The system, known as iFace, will use a combination of 3D facial mapping and infrared iris-cornea scanning to unlock and start the bike. The iFace system is set to be introduced on BMW’s boxer-engined bikes later this year.

When a rider is not wearing a helmet, the system uses a stripe projection to create a 3D map of the rider’s facial features. The system takes into account the depth and contours of the face, creating a virtual model that is then used to unlock and start the bike. For riders who wear a helmet, the system uses infrared iris-cornea scanning to recognize the rider’s eyes. A polarisation filter is used to cut through dark-colored visors and lenses, ensuring the system works in any light conditions.

The iFace system also includes notifications that are sent to the rider in case of any unauthorized attempts to start or move the bike. This feature operates like the Ring doorbell system, alerting the rider of any suspicious activity.

Although facial recognition technology has become more commonplace in recent years, the use of the technology in the context of motorcycle security is a new development. BMW’s iFace system is set to be unveiled at a motorcycle show in autumn 2023. While the technology has the potential to offer enhanced security for bike owners, some may be concerned about the reliance on the technology to protect their bike from theft.

BMW has been a pioneer in the electric two-wheeler industry for more than a decade, but it has yet to release a fully electric motorcycle. 

  • powering the bike is the same batter and electric motor from the CE 04.
  • the new electric motorcycle is likely to have the same size as the G 310 roadster. 

However, that may soon change as the company has been working on a small electric bike as reported by Cycle World. Patent applications reveal that BMW’s latest electric scooter, the CE-04, has provided the powertrain elements for the new bike, which is around the same size as the G 310 roadster.

*credit: Cycle World (BMW)

The innovative design features a motor that is positioned at a 45-degree angle and the motor’s shaft running longitudinally, allowing it to be relatively large while remaining narrow enough to fit between the rider’s legs. 

The battery is also at an angle, running parallel to the motor and just ahead of it. By moving the parts around and tilting them at an angle, the wheelbase can be shorter, and the center of gravity raised, providing sharper handling.

The battery and motor are from the CE-04, with a peak power of 42 hp and 63Nm of torque. The top speed is electronically limited to 120km/h, and the range is around 128km between charges. 

The motor drives through a new reduction gearbox with a bevel gear to take drive to the front sprocket, and a belt final drive transfers the power to the rear wheel, reducing maintenance and noise compared to a chain drive.

The fuel tank area is left clear, providing space for storage, including a helmet, while several different models based on the same components could be made, including a GS-style adventure model and a full-faired bike.

That said, the plug-in roadster is still in an early stage and it could take a couple of years before we’re able to see the finish product. Nevertheless, we are excited to see how it could turn out. 

BMW is expanding its R 18 range with a new variant called the R 18 Roctane. The Swiss type approval data for the Roctane reveals that it has much in common with the existing R 18 models, but with some notable differences. 

  • BMW is expanding its R 18 range with a new variant called the R 18 Roctane.
  • The Roctane is powered by the same 1,802cc air-cooled Boxer as the rest of the R 18 range.
  • The Roctane has a listed gross vehicle weight rating of 560 kg.

Firstly, the Roctane has an internal model code of “0N61,” which suggests that it differs from the other models with a different form factor or a chassis update. Additionally, the Roctane’s name indicates that it may be a more performance-focused model.

The Roctane is powered by the same 1,802cc air-cooled Boxer as the rest of the R 18 range. The homologation filing confirms the same engine code and peak performance numbers as the other models, with a maximum power output of 67 kW (90 hp) at 4,750 rpm, and 116 lb-ft. (157 Nm) at 3,000 rpm. 

The filing also confirms that the Roctane has the same silencer code as the Classic, B, and Transcontinental models, indicating that it will have the same straight pipes instead of the bulbous fishtail exhaust on the regular R 18.

The Roctane’s wheel sizes (including accessory options) are the same as the other R 18 models. The type approval data makes no mention of suspension, and the braking data only confirms dual front brakes and ABS. However, if the Roctane is indeed a more performance-oriented cruiser, we can expect the suspension and braking to be different from the rest of the R 18 family.

The Roctane has a listed gross vehicle weight rating of 560kg, which suggests that it will not have luggage. This weight is the same as the R 18 and R 18 Classic models, while the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental models have a higher GVWR of 630kg due to their non-removable cases.

The Roctane’s release date and pricing have not been announced yet. However, with BMW’s reputation for quality and performance, the R 18 Roctane is expected to be a popular addition to the R 18 range.

As technology advances, motorcycles are becoming safer than ever before. This year, Kawasaki introduced a front camera on its H2 SX, which automatically switches between high and low beam headlights to avoid blinding other drivers. 

  • BMW is taking motorcycle safety to the next level with its new stereo camera setup.
  • The patent application describes a stereo camera system with one camera module mounted in the front of each mirror housing. 

This design allows for easy integration across multiple models without requiring redesigned bodywork. The stereo cameras also offer a wider scope and the ability to judge distances and estimate the bike’s position three-dimensionally on the road.

While the Kawasaki setup is intended to allow for the use of auto-dipping headlights, BMW’s system takes it further by integrating with “matrix” headlights. 

These headlights can mask parts of the headlight beam to give a local dimming effect. The stereo camera system can detect oncoming vehicles and cut the light only in the part that would be hitting them, allowing the headlight’s bright beam to remain on without blinding other drivers.

The cameras have a range of applications beyond just aiding headlights. According to the patent application, they can assist in identifying road signs and traffic lights, provide lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision warning. 

Despite BMW’s current use of Bosch radar technology for adaptive cruise control on certain motorcycles, camera technology has distinct advantages in certain situations. For example, in terms of collision warning or automatic braking systems, cameras can detect brake lights on vehicles in front, giving more advanced warning than radar technology alone.

BMW Motorrad, the German motorcycle manufacturer, has announced a technical campaign affecting some buyers of the much-anticipated 2023 S1000RR superbike.

  • BMW to replaced all 2023MY S 1000 RR with a new brake lever pin. 
  • All delivery of the 2023 S 1000 RR will be put on hold temporarily. 

According to a statement released by the company, a small number of S1000RR motorcycles with milled levers will be equipped with a new brake lever pin.

While the upgrade may cause a delay in delivery for some customers, BMW Motorrad has reassured them that they will receive their motorcycles soon. The company has also stated that new S1000RRs in stock will have the new part fitted over the next few weeks before they are delivered to customers.

The S1000RR is a flagship model for BMW Motorrad, renowned for its high performance and advanced engineering. With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, the S1000RR has won praise from critics and enthusiasts alike, making it one of the most sought-after superbikes on the market.

The technical campaign is a proactive measure by BMW Motorrad to ensure the safety and reliability of their motorcycles. The company has a long-standing commitment to providing top-quality products and services to their customers, and this latest upgrade is a testament to that commitment.

BMW Motorrad has advised affected customers to contact their dealers for further information and to arrange for the upgrade to be carried out as soon as possible. The company has also expressed its gratitude to its customers for their patience and understanding during this process.

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