BMW Motorrad launches fastest, lightest, most advanced Boxer

The dreams of many Boxer fans have become reality. The launch of the new BMW HP2 Sport sees the sportiest, most powerful and lightest Boxer of all time hit the roads.

Based on the R 1200 S Sports Boxer, that competed successfully in Endurance race events this season, the new HP2 Sport bristles with high-end, top-quality racing parts. The HP2 Sport is the third model in the BMW HP ‘High Performance’ range. The HP series has been designed by engineers at the BMW factory to produce bikes that represent the ultimate in riding performance; with the skilful harmony of exceptionally high quality components resulting in a high-end range of motorcycles.

For the new model, BMW Motorrad has developed the most powerful Boxer engine ever. This has been achieved through the complete redesign of the cylinder heads to create the first Boxer engine with double overhead camshaft. This allows the engine to reach higher revs therefore generating more power. Achieving over 128hp at 8750rpm and 115Nm of torque at 6000rpm, the engine really packs a punch. With a dry weight of just 178kg, the bike’s power to weight ratio promises impressive performance.

The HP2 Sport has been designed with racing components originally developed from lessons learnt in Endurance racing. For instance, the frame has been strengthened from the standard one fitted to the existing R 1200 S model. Also the HP2 Sport is the first production motorcycle to be available for road use with a quickshifter. This enables fast gear changes without easing off the throttle or operating the clutch, making for a smoother, faster ride. As well as this the bike has a close-ratio six-speed gearbox, for maximum acceleration. Continuing its race credentials the HP2 Sport comes complete with a light-weight carbon fibre fairing, including a self-supporting seat unit.

Further innovative sport design elements include a MotoGP-style dashboard, forged aluminium wheels, Brembo brakes with radially mounted calipers and specially developed Öhlins front and rear suspension units, making the bike truly track ready.

The endurance racing features of this bike are clear. A first for a Boxer engine, the new stainless steel two-in-one exhaust system is placed under the oil sump, guaranteeing optimum lean angles. The HP2 Sport is also comes complete with adjustable footrests, brake and gear levers to allow for the optimum riding position for both racing and the road.

Although racing potential is clearly at the forefront of the design of the HP2 Sport, this does not mean forgoing safety design features such as ABS. Available on request, this sophisticated anti-lock system has been designed specifically for the model, and has been configured to be switched off for track use.

Tony Jakeman, BMW Motorrad’s Marketing Manager said, “The HP2 Sport is a bike designed for riders with an ultimate passion for sports riding. With numerous cutting-edge sports design features and a high performance engine this model is really leading the way for BMW sport production motorcycles. The bike is indicative of the brand shift that we have taken over recent years, whilst maintaining the uncompromising standards expected of BMW Motorrad.”

The on-the-road price of the HP2 Sport is expected to be around £14,500 (to be confirmed) when the bike becomes available at BMW Motorrad dealerships in Spring 2008. For in depth technical information please visit press.bmwgroup.com.