The 2009 HP2 Sport is the third offering in the HP2 lineup, after the Enduro and the
Megamoto. The Sport is a first for the manufacturer, a unique and exceptional
model when compared to the current Boxer street family, and a proud reminder of
the race-winning R90S and R100S from previous Boxer generations. The new HP2
Sport is much more than a highly optimized R1200S however, as it is an exciting
new model as well as a serious contender in the high-performance sportbike
segment.
 |
The new HP2 Sport raises the limits of performance of the Boxer engine, the chassis and the suspension. |
An Historic Engine ConfigurationAs
befits the image of BMW motorcycles, the new HP2 Sport is powered by a special
engine - in terms of specifications, sensations and even culture. The unique
Boxer engine configuration has been evolving for over 70 years, and has become
a veritable emblem of the German brand as well as an important part of
motorcycle history.
BMW wanted to further the Boxer concept, and developed an engine that produces
133 hp, the firm's most powerful production flat twin to date. To achieve this
level of power, BMW engineers developed a double-overhead-cam cylinder head,
featuring larger, radially mounted valves, fitted stronger forged aluminum
pistons, lighter and stronger connecting rods, and optimized intake and exhaust
porting in the new cylinder head design. These improvements helped raise the
maximum rpm and thus increase power, while using the same bore and stroke as
the R1200S engine.
Blessed Torque
The engine's flexibility
becomes apparent as soon as you ride off; it pushes comfortably at lower revs,
then harder from 6,000 rpm, without ever becoming brutal. Always easy to use,
there was enough torque on tap to effectively cover up this novice track
rider's minor mistakes. The motor launches the bike out of corners as hard as
you want to, and delivers a surprising dose of power at high rpm, much more so
than earlier R models.
The energetic throttle response throughout the rev range reduces the need to
perform the usual tap dance with the shift lever that is usually required to
keep things moving quickly on four cylinder engines. The new engine's lower
inertia is the result of lighter moving parts, especially the flywheel,
connecting rods and pistons, and results in quicker throttle response and less
engine braking, and thus more precise corner entry and more exciting exits when
riding harder.
 |
The rear part of the tubular steel frame has been redesigned to accommodate a self-supporting carbon seat, as well as save 12 kg over the older all-steel frame. |