BMW K1300GT – We Have a Demo Unit

We have a demo of the K1300GT down at the at the shop. Both Dave and Honz have taken it on the road and they say that BMW has refined an already amazing bike.

The 2009 K1300GT Motorcycle

Introducing the new K 1300 GT, BMW Motorrad is opening up new dimensions in the BMW Touring Encounter World in terms of both riding dynamics and grand touring qualities, enhancing the Company’s worldwide leadership in the Dynamic Tourer segment.

Offering even greater supremacy all along the drivetrain, an even higher standard of quality, an aerodynamic fairing enhanced to a new level of perfection, and a wide range of special equipment, the new K 1300 GT stands for Gran Turismo of the highest caliber.

It combines maximum agility and sporting riding dynamics with the ideal package for long tours. And with its engine output 118 kW (160 hp), together with maximum torque of 135 Newton-meters (99 lb-ft), the new K 1300 GT also benefits from the increase in engine size and stands out as one of the most powerful motorcycles in its segment.

In typical BMW style, therefore, the new K 1300 GT meets the greatest demands in terms of riding dynamics, comfort, safety, and equipment.

The new K 1300 GT is a High Performance Tourer featuring the innovative and proven highlights of the new K 1300 S in terms of performance, riding safety and technology. The drivetrain and suspension come largely from the K 1300 S, but have been adapted in their specific features and details to all the requirements of a dynamic tourer.

The highlights in developing the new K 1300 GT were enhanced riding dynamics and even greater supremacy combined with outstanding comfort and optimum qualities for all kinds of motorcycle tours.

Identical in its basic features with the power unit of the K 1300 S, the engine has been modified in terms of air flow and guidance. This increases maximum output over the K 1200 GT by 6 kW (8 hp) to a new record level of 118 kW (160 hp), with even greater emphasis given to superior torque for even better traction and pulling force at low and medium engine speeds.

The K 1300 GT also sets the standard in terms of comfort, riding safety and equipment, not only through its excellent suspension and running gear, but also through optionally available, electronically adjustable ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment II) as well as features such as electronic cruise control, an electrically adjustable windshield, or seat heating controlled individually for the rider and passenger.

BMW K1300GT Technical Highlights – an Overview:

• Even more traction and pulling force, particularly at low and medium engine speeds, through the increase in engine capacity.
• Engine output 118 kW (160 hp) at 9,000 rpm, peak torque of 135 Newton-meters (99 lb-ft) at 8,000 rpm.
• Significant increase in torque from 3,500 rpm.
• Fulfillment of the strictest environmental standards through newly set-up Digital Motor Electronics.
• Optimization of the emission system through rear mufflers modified inside and a fully-controlled three-way catalytic converter.
• Desmodromic operation of the gas lever function for even better and more precise gas metering.
• Optimized, maintenance-free shaft drive with a new, two-stage drive shaft.
• Even greater driving precision and optimized response combined with maximum riding stability ensured by the optimized Duolever front-wheel suspension complete with a newly designed lower longitudinal arm.
• Second-generation ESA II Electronically Adjustable Suspension and ASC Anti-Spin-Control as an option.
• New, innovative generation of switches and controls with optimized ergonomics.
• Integral ABS (semi-integral) featured as standard for a high level of active safety.
• Wide range of equipment and accessories tailored to the new machine at BMW’s usual high level of perfection.
• Seat and handlebar are adjustable.
• Optimized full fairing.
• Electrically adjustable windshield.

BMW K1300GT Engine

Like the K 1300 S, the new K 1300 GT also benefits from the significantly upgraded straight-four power unit increased in capacity from 1,157 to 1,293 cc.

Maximum output is now 118 kW (160 hp) at 9,000 rpm, with peak torque of 135 Newton-meters (99 lb-ft) at 8,000 rpm. This equals an increase in power by 6 kW (8 hp) and an increase in torque by 5 Newton-meters or 3.7 lb-ft.

While the former K 1200 GT did not develop its maximum output until 9,500 rpm, the power unit of the new K1300 GT offers its maximum power at 9,000 rpm, with more than 80 per cent of the engine’s maximum torque available from just 3,500 rpm.

Again versus the K 1200 GT, the torque curve is significantly better over a wide range from 3,500 – 10,000 rpm, following the objective to offer significantly more traction and pulling force particularly at low and medium engine speeds.

The torque curve remaining at a high ceiling over a wide range of engine speed is indeed virtually ideal for the K 1300 GT as a genuine Gran Turismo, offering even more practical performance and supreme power than its predecessor, which already set the standard in this segment.

While all features optimized on the engine and drivetrain of the new K-Series also benefit the new K 1300 GT, the airbox has been specifically adjusted to the different air requirements and flow conditions within the engine, featuring an optimized air filter and newly set-up intake funnels versus the former model.

Exhaust System

The rear muffler, which is newly designed and configured, also contributes to the even “beefier” torque curve and enhanced riding qualities of the K 1300 GT, standing out clearly through its supreme and powerful rumble.

Contrary to the very sports-minded K 1300 S and K 1300 R, the exhaust system on the K 1300 GT with its substantial damper volume and consistent use of stainless steel throughout does not require an electronically controlled exhaust butterfly.

Gearshift

The BMW K1300GT does not have the new BMW Gearshift Assistant feature. It uses an optimized anti-friction bearing on the gearshift lever with a corresponding reduction in tolerance in the transmission of power ensures an even more precise and faster gearshift than ever before.

Suspension

While the new K 1300 GT is based on the particularly stable suspension geometry of its predecessor, the unsprung masses of the BMW Duolever have been reduced even further through the introduction of a newly designed lower longitudinal arm. Now made of forged aluminum, the new Duolever gives the motorcycle an even smoother and finer response.

BMW’s new ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment II) suspension is also available on the K 1300 GT as an option at extra cost. This allows the rider, apart from the damping on the two spring struts, to also adjust the spring base (spring pre-tension) on the rear spring strut as well as its spring rate and spring hardness smoothly and conveniently at the touch of a button.

Hence, the owner is able to set the suspension most conveniently and more precisely than ever before to their personal wishes, taking particularly the load the motorcycle is carrying into account (which is of particular significance with the K 1300 GT) and offering a new dimension of riding stability combined with optimum response under all riding and load conditions.

ESA II is the world’s first electronic suspension control on the motorcycle offering such a wide range of adjustment options.

Styling

The unusually slender full-fairing with its dynamic contours and excellent aerodynamic qualities has been carried over from the former model and upgraded in its looks for the new K 1300 GT.

The new fairing differs from the former unit at the side through an opening in the side panel and the logo support, giving the K 1300 GT a far more dynamic appearance. The inner surfaces of the fairing now fully painted and no longer in the conventional grain touch convey an even higher standard of quality and style.

And at the same time the inner surfaces are further upgraded by the instrument panel now finished in a matt, dark metallic color. Protectors integrated in the side sections reduce the risk of damage in a fall or accident. Hence, the machine is now well protected should it fall over in an accident or when not properly parked.

Rider Comfort

The new K 1300 GT comes with the electrically adjustable windshield already featured and proven on the former model, combining optimum protection from wind and weather with minimum dimensions.

Through its aerodynamic design and configuration, the windshield guides the wind rushing by round the rider, relieving his head and upper body of wind pressure also at high speeds.

A further important point is that the windshield may be adjusted electrically over a range of 100 millimeters or almost 4 inches from the left handlebar controls, thus consistently meeting the rider’s requirements. A higher windshield (+ 60 mm, almost 2.4″) is available as an optional extra, offering virtually every rider perfect protection, regardless of his size and riding position, simply by choosing the right windshield and adjusting it accordingly.

To ensure maximum comfort and freedom of movement, the seat, as on the former K 1200 GT, is designed around the so-called step arch length of the rider as the decisive criterion for seating quality. This particular measurement is the distance between the rider’s two feet on the ground – measured across the inside of the legs – also taking the shape and the width of the seat into account.

The seat is tapered significantly around the rider, enabling him to comfortably place both feet on the ground and bend their knees just as comfortably. A further point is that seat height may be adjusted as required to 820 or 840 millimeters (equal to 32.3 or 33.1″).

And for the somewhat shorter rider BMW Motorrad offers a lower seat as an optional extra measuring 800 millimeters or 31.5″ in height (adjustable to 820 mm or 32.3”).

Both with a sporting style of riding and when touring, the “ergonomic triangle” made up of the footrests, the seat and the handlebar guarantees maximum freedom of movement as well as a relaxed style of riding without the slightest fatigue.

And last but certainly not least, the passenger will also enjoy the high standard of seat comfort so typical of a BMW. Handlebar adjustable for height. As on the K 1200 GT, the handlebar is adjustable for height in four levels, covering a total range of adjustment towards the rider’s body of 40 millimeters or almost 1.6″, thus adapting to all kinds of riders of different size and allowing the rider to choose their ideal seating position at all times. The height of the handlebar is adjusted very conveniently and easily through a mechanical thread-and-bolt setting.

Options and Accessories

The new K 1300 GT stands out as a genuine Gran Turismo through its ideal combination of sporting performance and touring comfort provided right from the start even in standard trim.

And to raise this standard to an even higher level, BMW Motorrad offers a wide range of optional extras and special equipment, optimizing this Dynamic Tourer in every respect.

These features will thrill both the demanding Grand Touring rider looking for maximum comfort on long distances and the technology enthusiast in search of innovative technical features.

The wide range of functional options extends from an on-board computer through a xenon headlight all the way to the ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment II) suspension allowing the rider though simple and optimum adjustment of the spring and dampers to set the running gear to the rider’s current requirements.

Optional extras come straight from the factory and are fitted during production. Special equipment is fitted by the BMW Motorcycle Dealer also subsequently after the motorcycle has been delivered.

Colors

The new K 1300 GT offers perfect harmony of touring qualities and sporting riding dynamics – features also reflected by the design of the K 1300 GT with its flowing lines and clear, striking shapes and surfaces.

The lines tapering out towards the front symbolize even more power and dynamics than before, combined with sporting and slender all-round proportions.

The three main colors available for the body are Red Apple Metallic, Royal Blue Metallic, and Magnesium Beige Metallic, contrasting perfectly with the drivetrain finished in Black and the suspension components in Asphalt Metallic.

While Red Apple Metallic in conjunction with dark contrasting components on the spoiler and at the rear appeals particularly to the sporting and ambitious rider, the experienced touring rider will definitely enjoy Royal Blue Metallic with White Aluminum contrasting components as a puristic alternative.

A third variant offers an even higher level of elegance and modern style: Magnesium Beige Metallic contrasting with Dark Slate Metallic, matt.

Options (from factory):

• Heated handgrips.
• Heated seat
• Cruise Control.
• ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment II; new).
• Low rider’s seat (approx 800 mm/31.5″ adjustable to 820 mm or 32.3″, step arch length 1,760 mm/68.9″).
• High windshield.
• Immobilizer.
• Xenon headlight.
• On-board computer including oil level warning unit.
• ASC Anti-Slip Control.
• TPC Tyre Pressure Control.S

Special Equipment:

• Watertight tank rucksack.
• Watertight tank bag including fastening elements.
• Sports soft bag, small 19 liters/large 51 liters.
• Watertight luggage roll, 53 liters, including lashing belt with tightening lock.
• Luggage spider.
• Impact protector for system cases, left or right.
• Inner bag for system cases, left or right.
• Top case, large, in white aluminum, 49 liters including attachments and locking cylinder.
• Top case, small, 28 liters including attachments and locking cylinder.
• Inner bag for top case, large/small.
• Back padding for top case, small.

Ergonomics and comfort:

• Heated grips with control unit.
• Low rider’s seat (approx 800 mm/31.5″ adjustable to 820 mm or 32.3″, step arch length 1,760 mm/68.9″).
• Windshield, large.
• Windshield, tinted.

Safety:

• On-board toolkit/service kit.
• Paddock stand including adapter.
• 230 V/110 V battery charger including adapter.
• Repair kit for tubeless tires.
• Repair instructions for K-models, DVD.
• Motorcycle cleaner.
• Additional power socket.
• LED light for on-board socket.
• Immobilizer with remote control.
• First-aid kit, large/small.
• Motorcycle cover.
• BMW Motorrad ZUMO navigation and communication unit including holder (new).

Shop Rides Begin this Month (March)

Shop rides will begin this month.  They are held on the 3rd Sunday of the month throughout the summer.  But please note… there will not be a shop ride in April due to the Gateway GS Cup event.

Stay tuned for starting times…

Late February/March Pictures

Here are some pictures from late February and so far in March.  I’ll put up more as I get them.

Bob Honz Finally Gets to go on Vacation!

It’s official. Bob is going to take some time off. He and his wife will go south on the bike. If you need sales help during the week of March 17-21, please see Paul, who will be happy to assist you.

Bob’s Experience at the BMW Performance Center

Last September our intrepid General Manager, Bob Honz, took a GS off-road riding course at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, SC. Patterned after the legendary off-road course in Hechlingen, Germany, this course was designed to maximize abilities on dirt, sand, gravel and water. Bob rode with Mark Jamroz, BMW’s Area and Community Manager (ACM) for the Midwest. Bob says, “I learned more than I thought I was going to. I learned to use finesse and technique in lieu of horsepower.”

And now you, too, can benefit from a course like this. Doesn’t it look like fun? Gateway BMW’s GS Cup on April 24-26 will bring an instructor from the BMW school to Missouri. For info about Gateway BMW’s GS Cup click here. For info about the BMW Performance Center courses click here.

http://www.gatewaybmw.com/bmw-performance-center

Check Out The BMW G450X Enduro

Over the last 80 years BMW Motorrad has made off-road history time and time again. The marque is now closely involved in off-road sports as never before and is premiering an uncompromising, pedigree sport enduro in the attractive 450-cc displacement class. The new BMW G 450 X is a motorcycle exclusively developed for enduro sport and the most demanding competitive races in the world. It’s a machine that is ready to compete the moment it arrives from the factory.

The background to the development of such a machine is the knowledge that competition-oriented enduro motorcycles represent a parameter with growth potential in the motorcycle market. Markets such as US, Australia, and Spain, already register – nearly traditional – stable sales in the off-road sector and BMW Motorrad wants to help shape and stimulate this and other markets for the long term. Besides, smaller volume off-road motorcycles open the gateway to both popular and professional motor sport as well as offering enough potential to also help the young generation to rediscover the fascination of motorcycles again. With the launch of the G 450 X, BMW is also pointing the way for the upcoming generation and towards sustainably securing the future of the motorcycle in general.

The engine with the latest fuel injection and computer-controlled three-way catalytic converter is Euro III homologated and already meets the vehicle emissions standards which are becoming ever more rigorous today for sports events as well as for road vehicles. With these measures BMW Motorrad is also taking a further step towards public acceptance of enduro sports in the future. The patented, unrivaled technical features of the new BMW G 450 X make it a driving force and contribute to the advancement of technological competition in this segment.

The introduction of the tough enduro BMW G 650 Xchallenge has already pointed the way: with a frame and swing arm layout for improved offroad traction, low weight, compact chassis and dynamic engine. BMW Motorrad goes still further with the BMW G 450 X and is not content with constructional features traditionally seen in the class. High-tech solutions have been realized in both the engine and chassis in keeping with the cross-country sporting tradition of the house and giving the marque a fascinating exclusive off-road profile.

Engine.

The 449 cc single-cylinder DOHC 4-stroke engine of the G 450 X was developed by BMW. The compact cylinder head of the short-stroke four-valve power unit houses the technical elements of the K 1200 S: for example, the intake valves are operated by follower valves; the outlet control is implemented by tappets. A space-saving configuration distinguished by high engine peeds. Optimum performance that meets the requirements of the Euro III exhaust gas norm is realized by fuel injection with oxygen sensor regulation and a dual throttle valve system which ensure that the engine reacts more sensitively to throttle commands. The crankshaft and conrod are fitted with roller bearings and the weight-optimized two ring piston is forged.

A balance shaft effectively reduces the vibrations typical of a single-cylinder engine. The constant mesh five-speed transmission was widely staggered for optimum connections in racing. The primary coupling sits directly on the crankshaft and is configured as a wet clutch with a clutch diaphragm. In contast to conventional concepts, the BMW G 450 X clutch is considerably more compact and has a smaller diameter with the same number of discs. Contrary to the conventional geared-down clutches, this is possibe because the clutch only needs to transmit a correspondingly reduced torque on the transmission input shaft. The clutch is operated by a cable.

The engine is fed with oil by a wet sump lubrication system. Two oil pumps, a pressure pump and a suction pump use the same volumes of oil to lubricate the gearbox and the crankshaft. The two integrated oil sieves and oil filter are easy to access from the left side of the engine for replacement. The volume of oil of approximately one liter can be checked via an inspection glass.
An intermediate shaft with integrated ventilation function transfers the power from the crankshaft to the gearbox and means that the crankshaft of the G 450 X engine turns backwards. The cylinder is tilted forward by approxi-mately 30 degrees, enabling the center of gravity to be moved in the direction of the front wheel thereby benefitting the suspension. A further advantage of tilting the cylinder is the creation of space for the intake air ducting that can now come vertically from above and virtually straight, promoting optimum performance.

The engine of the BMW G 450 X, with a compression ratio of 12 : 1, is started by an electric starter; an additional kickstarter is unnecessary thanks to a powerful battery and fuel injection with invariably reliable starting action. An automatic decompression function with a centrifugal force valve lifter reduces the power demanded by the starter. Even when the machine has to travel for longer periods at higher revs in difficult and slow off-road sections, the engine is never excessively thermally loaded thanks to its large-volume, single-piece radiator. A fan behind the cooler provides sufficient air flow rate at low flow speeds.
The production exhaust system is made of stainless steel and the catalytic converter is fitted in the silencer (absorption silencer). For exclusive use in competitive racing, optional purely sporting end silencers are offered as special equipment and it is possible to switch to the extreme “race” mapping stored in the engine control unit.

Despite the powerful alternator and electric starter, the high-performance engine of the BMW G 450 X weighs no more than the aggregate of competitor motorcycles (less than 30 kilograms). The exact power and torque data are not yet fixed.

Chassis.

The chassis of the BMW G 450 X is a completely new development that uses selected high-quality components and materials. The years of enduro experience of BMW Motorrad flowed into the development of the chassis. The main consideration in the geometry and overall configuration of the chassis was to meet the especially high demands of off-road racing.  The results are excellent properties in terrain with ease of handling, great maneuverability and extreme tracking stability.
Innovative frame concept.

The frame layout is based on the experiences of the development engineers, the know-how from competitive racing and attendant research and develop-ment work. The knowledge gained from earlier rally sport activities was also incorporated. The frame of the BMW G 450 X is an absolutely new develop-ment that differs in principle from all constructions of the competition. In the main part it consists of thin walled, but high-strength stainless steel precision tubes and is welded to the node points with forged parts deployed for the purpose. No additional surface treatment is necessary. The entire main frame weighs merely 8.6 kilograms and is distinguished by excellent stiffness.

The lower bow of the frame tubes runs directly from the swinging axle straight to the steering head. On the other hand, the upper bow creates a direct con-nection between the suspension strut mount and steering head. The wheel forces are braced centrally on the frame over the suspension strut so that the light rear frame that is bolted to the main frame and is formed by aluminum square profiles now only needs to bear the weight of the rider. All in all this construction enables the optimum flow of force, requires minimum use of material, thus allowing a hitherto unrivalled ratio of rigidity to weight.

The 18-inch rear wheel is suspended in a robustly dimensioned two-arm swing arm made from aluminum square profiles which supports a directly linked Öhlins central suspension strut with a generous spring travel of 320 mm. This high-technology element is variably adjustable in pressure and outward stroke damping as well as in the spring pre-tension. The suspension of the 21-inch front wheel is undertaken by a 45 mm upside-down fork by Marzocchi that absorbs even the roughest bumps with a spring travel of 300 mm and is also fully adjustable.

A powerful brake system with double-piston floating caliper from Brembo ensures the deceleration of the BMW G 450 X. The front single brake disc has a diameter of 260 mm, the rear disc measures 220 mm.

In order to live up to the the harshest off-road conditions, the BMW G 450 X has a light, impact resistant and highly stable plastic underride protection fitted as standard and that has already proved itself in racing. The motorcycle also has a double-butted Magura aluminum handlebar that guarantees optimum control on all surfaces.

Patented swing arm mount.

The real finesse in the chassis sector and a unique feature of the BMW G 450 X is the coaxial mount of the swing arm and chain pinion. The swing arm pivot has been mounted through the hollow gearbox output so that there is no longer any change in length of the chain on compression and rebound over the entire spring travel. The chain tension remains constant independent of the compression position; the pinion, chain and chain ring are subject to less wear than in conventional constructions. A positive effect on the riding characteristics is that the effect of changing loads on the powertrain is now noticeably reduced.

Thanks to the patented coaxial mounting of the swing arm and drive chain pinion plus a wheelbase at competition level, the swing arm is 30 mm longer, markedly improving the traction properties. The rear wheel remains longer in contact with the ground in all situations, keeping the driving force better on the surface. Also, compared with the competition, a significantly greater length adjustment range of the rear wheel results which means different pinion and chain ring combinations can be used with the same chain with no problem.

When a pinion has to be replaced, the swing arm must be removed; however, in comparison to conventional concepts, this is not a particularly time consuming task. An experienced mechanic can replace the pinion in about 15 minutes and, because of the much lower wear of the entire final drive, the pinion needs to be replaced less often then by the competition.

Design.

The looks of the BMW G 450 X immediately make clear the affinity to BMW Motorrad. The dynamic “Flyline” allows the new motorcycle to be identified as a typical member of the BMW enduro world, the most striking element is the typical family beak – also the distinguishing characteristic shared by all GS models.

The optical appearance also expresses pure sporting performance with the associated aggression. This results in the look and feel of a fascinating vehicle that has the right to “ride to win” in competitive races. The color concept of the G 450 X is oriented to the G 650 Xchallenge. The standard color is “racing white” with blue accents typical of BMW which highlights the affiliation to the G model family and the new, sporty enduro line from BMW.

Monster Energy AMA Supercross

Saturday, Mar 21 7:00 p.m.

Edward Jones Dome
701 Convention Plaza
St Louis, MO 63101
(314) 342-5201

Log on to www.supercrossonline.com for more information.

Saturday
March 21, 2009
Main event starts – 7:00 p.m.
Doors open/practice & qualifying – 12:30 p.m.

Ticket prices
$45 adult/ 45 child – club seats
$30 adult/ 30 child – goldcircle seats
$25 adult/ 10 child – mid-level seats
$20 adult/ 10 child – extreme seats
$10 adult/ 10 child – treadhead seats
$2 more day of show
Tickets also available at all Ticketmaster outlets, at the Edward Jones box office (week of show only)
*family section: non-alcoholic family fun!

2009 Spring Open House

Join us from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 9 for the spring open house.  Liz Huff’s great food, fun, door prizes!

If you’re on Facebook you can RSVP here.

Pictures of last December’s Open House are here.

Where’s Kevin Been Lately???

Have you been wondering what’s happened to Kevin?  You say you haven’t missed him?!  Awww.  Well, he has gone back full time to his construction business.  But he’ll be working at the shop on some Saturdays now that the riding season is beginning.  Below is a pic of Kevin doing some construction work for the shop on March 5, 2009.  He had just enough time to suck in his gut before I snapped the picture.

Motorcycle of the Year Awards 2009

Munich. 2009 has started very well for BMW. With three first places, one second place and one third place, BMW motorcycles once again achieved excellent results in the reader’s choice segment at the MOTORRAD magazine “Motorcycle of the Year 2009″ Awards. The MOTORRAD readers’ vote confirmed that BMW Motorrad continues to meet the expectations of motorcyclists with its current models.
The BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure managed to maintain their leading position in their market segment in the traditional MOTORRAD readers’ awards, taking first place in Category “Enduros/ Supermotos”.

As in the previous year BMW Motorrad also took first place in Category “Allrounders” and “Naked Bikes”. Here readers were most taken with the active ride BMW models K 1300 S and R 1200 R.

In “Tourer” category, the BMW R 1200 RT took second place and K 1300 GT took third place, underlining the importance of BMW motorcycles when it comes to speed, comfort and safety.

The awards ceremony was held at 2.00 p.m. on 5 March 2009 as part of the “Motorräder Dortmund” motorcycle show in Dortmund’s Westfalenhalle. This was the eleventh time that the “Motorcycle of the Year” Awards were held, regarded as the most important motorcycle and scooter readers’ prize in Europe. There were 200 candidates in all in a total of eight categories. Around half a million readers have cast their vote in this awards scheme since its inception in 1999.