About BMW Bikes

BMW bikes come in a variety of models from the high-performance Megamoto and HP Sport lines to Urban, Enduro, Sport and Touring lines. Popular with European riders, the BMW bike is used for racing and off-road cycling as well as long-distance touring. A special line of racing bikes is produced to compete in races around the world.

History

The German automaker began producing BMW bikes in 1921 and put out the first road-worthy bike in 1923--6 years before it would produce its first automobile. The R32 had a 466cc, 8.5 horsepower Boxer engine. The motorbike could hit top speeds of 60 miles per hour, quite fast in the early days. In 1937, BMW set a world record with its motorbikes, hitting speeds up to 174 miles per hour. Many of the plans and factories were put out of commission during World War II, but the BMW bike was up and running again with the R34 model by 1947.

Motorrad

The BMW Motorrad is a team sponsored by BMW that utilizes the top-end, high-performance racing bikes manufactured for both racetrack and off-road competitions. The BMW racing team has won a variety of awards with the line, including six Dakar races held in France, Africa and South America.

Dirt Bikes

BMW off-road dirt bikes look like simple bicycles with motors on them, but the lightweight bikes carry 105 horsepower engines. Weighing only 385 pounds, the HP2 has a steel-tube frame and lightweight welded alloy shells. BMW uses a unique shock system that employs both air and damping systems. The tires are 21 inches in the front and 17 inches in the back. An upside-down front fork provides easier handling on all kinds of rough terrain.

Cruisers

To meet the huge, worldwide demand for cruising motorcycles, BMW has been refining its production over the years to compete, especially in the American market that purchases more than half of the world's cruisers. The R1200C debuted in the early 2000s and has been widely popular. The bike's 61 horsepower engine is handled smoothly with a five-speed gearbox that keeps vibrations low and shift changes quieter than previous models. The bike comes with standard anti-locking brakes and stainless steel brake linings. With clearance of less than 4 inches, the bike is not designed for racing or off-road use, but provides a solid comfortable ride that cruisers look for.

Concept Bikes

BMW also manufactures a newer line of roadsters that feature wild paint jobs and asymmetrical light fixtures with new twin-spark cylinder heads. A wide seat makes the bike attractive to long-distance riders, as do the heated handgrips. The 85 horsepower engine only runs for about 200 miles on the 5.3-gallon gas tank. The flat handlebars and reset foot pegs provide a comfortable forward leaning position that BMW is known for.

Resources

• BMW