BMW Motorrad at Mondial du Deux Roues, Paris 2007. The new BMW HP2 Sport.

1. Concept, Requirements and Features. 2. Model Designation and Marque. 3. Development, Technical Highlights and Design. 4. Technical Data. 5. Engine Output and Torque. 6. Involvement in Road Racing.

The dream of many Boxer fans has come true: With the new BMW HP2 Sport, BMW
Motorrad is putting the sportiest, most powerful and lightest Boxer series of
all times on the road. The third model of the HP model range was designed for
the ambitious sports rider and enthrals with numerous exclusive details that
were previously restricted to racing, some making their first appearance in
series vehicle production.

Examples of these include the self-supporting and aerodynamically optimised
fairings made completely of CFK, the gear shift assistant, a dashboard like
that used in the MotoGP, the forged aluminium wheels and the racing brakes with
radially bolted calipers. Wherever the eye of the spectator wanders, it sees
pure racing technology that delights every enthusiast. It is unmistakably
athletic, a vehicle that inspires on country roads as well as on the racing
circuit.

Regardless of the limits for the engine output as a result of the principle and
the aerodynamic disadvantages from the cylinder configuration of a Boxer, BMW
Motorrad deliberately decided to further develop this historic engine concept
for a road racer with racing circuit talent. The key engine data are very
respectable: the engine achieves 98 kW/133 bhp at 8750 min-1 compared with the
significantly modified engine of the
BMW R 1200 S. The maximum torque lies at 115 Nm at 6000 min-1, the highest revs
of the
engine reaches a peak value at 9500 min-1.

Technically, the BMW HP2 Sport is based on the BMW R 1200 S. Customised to meet
the requirements of the ambitious sports rider down to the last detail, the BMW
HP2 Sport is however a completely independent and absolutely exceptional
motorcycle. Many detailed solutions are based on the experiences gained in
long-distance races.

The most striking difference of the BMW HP2 Sport from the endurance
racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder heads: Each of the double overhead
camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger than
in the BMW R 1200 S. Further modifications such as the flow-optimised intake
and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod help the engine to
achieve the necessary higher output compared to the basic engine.

The new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first
time. This keeps the construction of the lower area of the motorcycle extremely
slim, enabling great freedom of movement for the familiar 'hanging off' riding
position, and the fitting of a CFK engine spoiler is advantageous to the
aero-dynamics. An inimitable boxer sound with new acoustic quality is generated
by the exhaust system and the striking design of the rear silencer is
impressive.

Another exclusive racing feature is the gearshift assistant together with the
narrow ratios of the 5-speed gearbox to enable fast gear changes without having
to ease off the gas and operate the clutch. This technology is offered for the
first time in a series vehicle. In order to adapt the gearshift pattern for the
racing circuit, a suitable replacement pressure sensor is available as special
equipment if necessary.

The fully adjustable Öhlins sports chassis also has a Brembo monoblock brake
system with radially mounted, four-piston fixed calipers at the front. Optimum
ergonomics are ensured by the adjustable forged aluminium footrests, the
adjustable stock handlebar and the Magura radial manual buttons. The series
dashboard that comes directly from MotoGP sport provides the rider with
important information and can also deliver lap times plus other racing relevant
data as well as the usual displays (see Chap. 3).

Attention was paid consistently to the light weight construction of all
com-ponents. This includes not only the self-supporting front fairing and the
likewise self-supporting carbon rear or the weight-optimised forged wheels, but
also hidden details such as the lightweight generator from the racing world.
That's how it was possible to reduce the unladen weight of the HP2 Sport to DIN
standard with full tank (90%) to 199 kilos. The dry weight is a mere 178 kilos.

The interplay of variable ergonomic design, increased engine output and
the favourable centre of gravity of the Boxer guarantees superb handling and
racing potential.
Even if racing fascination is clearly at the forefront of the BMW HP2 Sport,
it does not have to forego the safety design feature of ABS. The sophisticated
anti-blocking system specially adapted to the HP2 Sport is available as an
option and is configured so it can be switched off for the racetrack.

The market introduction of the BMW HP2 Sport is scheduled for 2008.