Menus
- High-tech cruise missile
- Discovery
- In the saddle
- In the city
- Motorway and expressways
- Departmental
- Part-cycle
- Braking
- Comfort / Duo
- Consumption
- Conclusion
- Specific equipment:
High-tech cruise missile
Since 1983, the K series has been the lineage of benchmark technological innovation for the Munich-based manufacturer. For many, these models are also the sport-road showcase of the propeller brand during their presentation.. Thus appears the K 100 RS, a sporty counterpart to the K 100 roadster presented at the same time. Four cylinders in line of course, secondary transmission by cardan shaft then called BMW Compact Drive System but above all liquid cooling. Two other engine innovations are in order: electronic fuel injection and a tubular steel frame with a light and torsionally rigid lattice design, placing the propellant unit in load-carrying function.
There is also an aerodynamically studied fairing and a lower handlebar gives the rider a more sporty position. Likewise, the turn signals integrated in the mirrors already reflect stylistic and aerodynamic requirements. Finally, the Bavarian firm offered the first, in 1988, an optional ABS. With more than 34,000 units, the RS is the most built model of the first generation K Series. Subsequently, the K1 (1988) will maintain the myth with its 16-valve engine and its hyper streamlined line, followed by the K 1200 RS (1996), the first representative of the K Series to inherit the Telelever. This specific guidance system appeared in 1993 on the R 1100 RS.
We understand, this line is a K apart at BMW, to which, in 2004, the 1200 S brings with fulgurance, its natural extension. 167 horses then spring from a brand new four-cylinder now transverse. Finally, the new Duolever front axle is now associated with the transmission’s Paralever system. Raised to 1300 cm3 and 175 horsepower, the sporty comfort improved in 2009 and further improved its approval while remaining faithful to its origins. We will therefore find, in the current model, all the key points mentioned above but proposed in the last standard. In addition, our test focuses on the HP series (High Performance), limited to 750 copies and embedding a number of optimizations..
Discovery
The special version is embellished with a three-color house sport color: white, black and blue. Unfortunately, this last color does not cover aluminum rims..
Special edition or not, the K 1300 S HP is an impressive motorcycle: long, tapered despite its fairings and ostensibly powerful in every way. No unnecessary finesse, only efficiency remains. Although highly modernized, his features bear distant similarities to those of his ancestors. Thus, its large front face accommodates an equally generous optic, surmounted by a dedicated double curvature bubble. Framed by mirrors incorporating turn signals, this fork crown receives, in the lower part, two forced air intakes. Enveloping the German projectile as closely as possible, the sides sheath the machine with angles and taut lines stretching far below the machine.
Higher up, these aesthetics make up an elegant 19-liter tank on which the welcoming ergonomic one-piece seat rests. This one receives a carbon passenger seat cowl, materials also declined, for this HP, in front mudguard, central protection of container and of clutch housing. The wide rear loop ends on a profiled LED light and supports two grab handles and massive passenger footrest supports. As on the R model, we regret that these are blocked by the rectangular profiles of the frame reinforcements.
This one, of the perimeter type in cast aluminum, runs almost horizontally to follow the strong inclination of the Bavarian block. Tilted forwards by 55 °, the four-cylinder thus optimizes the position of its center of gravity. The overall architecture also gives the engine a load-bearing function for maximum rigidity. In the bowels of the monster lie dormant, for the moment, no less than 175 standards (129 kW) available at 9250 rpm. The "French comedy" takes 40% but the engineers have now avoided the sinking of the previous opus question of clamping. In short: enough to wait for 2016 without insurmountable frustration.
In addition, BMW has many reliability elements: the clutch is reinforced to withstand the excess stresses and the cassette box is improved at all levels: forks, dogs, pinions and selector mounted on bearings. Finally, the Performance finish incorporates a shifter for lightning shifts, without disengaging.
The unusual engine characteristics call for the monitoring of many electronic aids, integrating this limited series, and responding to the sweet names of ESA, ASC and ABS.
The first evokes the piloted suspensions with multiple settings. The other two abbreviations denote disconnectable systems, relating to anti-slip and braking. This traction control compares the rotational speed of the wheels via the ABS sensors and influences the delivery of power via the ignition and injection. The last one is of the semi-integral type: operating the lever on the handlebars also operates the rear. Two radial 4-piston calipers thus attack 320 mm discs at the front while, on the other hand, a 2-piston clamp bites a 265 mm disc..
Of course, the transmission is by shaft and universal joint via the elegant single-sided arm, supporting an equally attractive rim with multiple branches, one of which receives a practical horizontal valve. The directional gear retains its technological duolever fork, with superimposed double wishbones and shrouds, the arms of which are dressed in a complex-style fairing. Note also the presence of a steering damper, hidden in the fork well and the HP titanium exhaust with carbon tip, incorporating a piloted valve. This reduces the volume of the silencer for a higher flow rate in low revs.
In the saddle
Yet high, with its 820 mm, the comfortable seat seems more accessible thanks to its narrowness at the crotch. Once seated, the machine also seems thinner than perceived at first glance. The HP sporting spirit is present, with adjustable rear aluminum controls, cut in the mass. The bending of the legs is felt and the bust tilts noticeably on the half-handlebars attached to an openwork platinum aesthetic, flanked by the blue and white logo. We will not miss either, on the tank, the aluminum plate contrasting with the carbon and engraved with the number assigned to your frame. It causes gentlemanly competition at all levels…. But we do not forget, for all that, the heated grips, just to spend the winter serenely. Finally, the distance between the levers is adjustable.
Taking place in an elegant cockpit where the elements are carefully adjusted, the instrument panel mixes genres. Analog tachometer and tachometer, with different backgrounds, sit alongside a narrow digital window. These are displayed successively via the "Menu" button, engine and fuel temperature gauge, clock, odometer or partial, exterior temperature, speed and average consumption, range and gear indicator light. We will also read the tire pressure level included in the High Performance pack. If this is too low, a light flashes, warning of the danger.
In the chest of drawers on the left, we can deactivate the assistance or set the damping of the ESA. Three modular profiles (Sport, Normal and Comfort) for single pilot, with suitcases and duo. All of this information remains a little subject to reflections but remains more readable than that of the roadster..
The control of the indicators follows the international precepts, abandoning the lateralized levers. The mirrors, mounted on long arms, easily tilt forward, ideal when parking in town. The glasses are just as easily adjustable and return a sharp image with a wide field, at all times.
The menu of complaints, we will quote a slender and short crutch as well as a really prominent clutch housing, right side, whose size increases with the carbon protection. The advantage is that you won’t have to endure the sharp end with which the opposite fairing tries to tickle your leg during maneuvers. All the more easy because the Bavarian has probably abused the Black Forest, accusing a weight of 259 kg to cut the road. Apart from these few points, the finish is highly rewarding, effectively hiding harnesses, hoses or cables.
In the city
A dry burst from the starter initiates hostilities. Virile, the sound of the silencer already poses the assertive character of the K 1300 S HP. A few rotations of the throttle grip ferociously bark the mechanics that go up in the towers without any hesitation. Boredom shouldn’t be on the agenda. However, after having slammed his heels at the passage of the first, the German reveals an amazing smoothness, both in engine and selection. Whether using the lever or the shifter, the gearbox is most often precise and discreet, matching the rare flexibility of the four-cylinder. The last report thus easily supports times at 30 km / h…. granting the leashed missile the favors of urban traffic. What also to appreciate an exemplary stability, hardly surprising in view of the imposing wheelbase: 1585 mm. Which is not without generating a certain heaviness at low revs.
The space requirement associated with an aircraft carrier turning radius will prevent U-turns and other tight maneuvers. Despite a low center of gravity, the K 1300 S HP is not a youthful ballerina. In addition, although having recesses under the hands, the reservoir with many angles can limit the ease of these exercises..
The boulevards welcome the BMW more frankly, which we take care not to force its talent as a sprinter. From 3000 rpm, the thrust augurs a massive migration of the points on your license to unknown regions. Do not hope for better by squatting in first gear, it goes up to more than 120 km / h. Convenient for then stabilizing the speed on other routes ….
Motorway and expressways
Second -blop- third-blop-fourth-blop…. etc. The micro-cut of the shifter signals each gear shift with a cheerful hiccup. The legal motorway is already far away. The K 1300 S HP flies, taking its crew in an almost unquenchable breath. Finally, in an honest version. Because the hexagonal grinding (no, I’m not talking about the design), demonstrative up to 7,500 turns certainly, then loses its superb. Asphyxiated by the restraint on the last 3,500 revolutions, the German is looking for the power that is deprived of it at high speed. Given for more than 280 km / h, the French BMW will not reach these values, slowly approaching 240. Its gear ratios, longer than those of the K 1300 R roadster, also contribute to less marked acceleration. But the essential is elsewhere and fortunately. Much more pleasant than on the 1200 version, castration does not take away much of the pleasure from this opus, keeping the best of the revivals.
Returned at usual pace, the general protection, except that of the flattened bubble, makes it possible to envisage long rapid stages. Especially since the saddle demonstrates a real comfort. Its length allows the pilot to move back, limiting the grip in the wind. The older ones will thus find a healthy shelter on long journeys. Or better yet, we’ll go tease the curve of the secondary network.
Departmental
It is on the intermediate reports that the BMW unit is appreciated. With 70% of its torque available from 2000 revolutions / minute for a maximum of 140 Nm at 8250 rpm (118 Nm at 3750 rpm in the "without" horsepower version….) The K 1300 S delivers maximum sound character for the main part of its use: mid-range. Then very sustained, the acceleration propels the machine with force between two turns and tows it in the same way when exiting curves. The Metzeler Sportec M3 mount then provides excellent grip, reinforced by effective anti-skating but the implementation lacking in smoothness. The rear envelope, in 190 mm, passes the cavalry all the better on the ground but puts a little strain on the handling in the tight shell.
The general ease is however surprising for such a template. Going naturally from one edge to the other, the precision remains infallible. Being sporty, the K plunges with agility on the angle, flying over the most bumpy asphalt without initiating the least parasitic movement. All the credit goes to the Duolever, ensuring the Sport-GT with flawless handling, as long as the damping is adjusted to Sport. Rather flexible, the general laws of suspension in fact keep the machine a certain comfort, which should be limited at best in sustained use where high weight and dynamism require more rigor..
Whatever the pace, the braking system responds effectively. Frank, the attack of the stirrups then gives way to a reassuring progressiveness. However, engaging the brakes when cornering tends to lock the steering. Finally, we clearly feel the pedal sink under the feet when pressing the lever, reminding an integral action.
At a more touristic pace, the K 1300 S HP is charming road, absorbing hollows and bumps to leave on board only the pleasure of driving. Do not worry, even while dawdling along the roads, a small rotation of the right handle will suffice to erase any vehicle hindering your progress..
Part-cycle
As for its sister R, the strong point of the K 1300 S HP lies in the accuracy of its geometry. Unperturbed, the BMW plays with the most troubled surfaces. On the track, the narrowness of the machine allows you to sway and play with your natural and healthy cycle part. With the limits of the genre all the same. The machine is heavy and long and the more athletic will find the controlled damping still a little flexible.
Braking
Dosable but powerful, the front calipers provide an excellent feeling during the deceleration phases. Especially since the German and her Duolever ban any diving from the steering train. In addition, the distribution on the rear pistons further increases braking efficiency. Finally, the ABS is triggered as accurately as possible, allowing engaged but reassuring piloting..
Comfort / Duo
False sporty and real fast GT, the K 1300 S HP, once its backrest has been removed, turns into a welcoming road vehicle, which can then be fitted with suitcases. Comfortable saddle and acceptable position will satisfy crews favoring dynamics over absolute comfort. Large, ergonomic passenger grab handles also provide excellent grip.
Consumption
Optimistic, the computer "forgets" a good liter and a half of average consumption at mixed pace. We will expect a big 7 L / 100 km for those who do not benefit too much from the engine, or at a more constant speed. With 19 liters, the tank allows almost 300 km to the most timid. For others, going to the pump will reduce the average for a welcome break. *
Conclusion
The K 1300 S version has eradicated the faults of the 1200 model. Mechanics more pleasant and even more efficient, more lively behavior, BMW is evolving its sport road towards more pleasure. Faithful to its origins, K genetics are present and this model takes up the adage: "Good blood cannot lie". In fact, the Munich firm offers a vessel in its image: fast, technological and safe. Available as standard at € 16,450, the High Performance limited series requires an extension of € 3,640, or € 20,090. The price of a complete aesthetic, dynamic and electronic equipment and, perhaps, of a future premium due to scarcity?
It will be opposed (apart from options) the equally unreasonable Kawasaki ZZR1400 ABS at € 15,599. Capable of catching 300 km / h, the other Japanese missile also combines road qualities. However, her agility remains below that of the German. Ditto for the legendary Suzuki Hayabusa 1300, priced at € 14,999, which will not compete in comfort either. Finally, Honda and its VFR1200F ABS, € 13,990, does not offer comparable dynamism. More road and heavy, the Hamamatsu machine works more on its elegance and its finish.
As standard, as in the HP version, the German has serious arguments even if its price remains much higher than the competition. However, those who are convinced of the Duolever / Paralever will not hesitate to make up the difference. As for the full option model, his choice is more of a certain snobbery. Indeed, the Dynamic Pack includes ASC, ESA, on-board computer, heated grips, RDC and Shifter for € 1,030…. Then increased to € 17,830, the K 1300 S incorporates most of the options of the special series…. aesthetics less. In this regard, 30 years of K is worth celebrating! After this HP limited series, BMW offers, at the beginning of 2013, a version…. birthday. You didn’t like the blue elements? On the next one they will be red! And that’s all, because apart from this shade, it’s the same and the price should not change. To your checkbooks ….
Strong points
- Part-cyle
- Engine availability
- Finishes
- Electronic
- Equipments
Weak points
- High speed clamping
- Weight
- Excessive tariffs
The K 1300 S technical sheet
The opinions in the opinions and tests for the K 1300 R
Competitors: Honda VFR 1200, Kawasaki ZZR 1400, Suzuki Hayabusa
Colors: Racing Red / Sapphire Black / Alpine White, Titan Silver / Sapphire Black metal, Sapphire Black metal / Graphite metal
Specific equipment:
- Numbered plate
- Tinted double curvature screen
- Adjustable rear controls in aluminum cut in the mass
- Akrapovic titanium and carbon silencer
- Shifter
- ESA II electronic suspensions
- Board computer
- ASC anti-slip
- RDC tire pressure control
- Heated grips
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