BMW's K1200 R voted Motorcycle of the Year

The most powerful and aggressively styled production street bike in the world -
the BMW K1200 R - has been voted 'Motorcycle of the Year' by the top US
publication, Motorcyclist - just two months after the bike's official launch.

Editors of Motorcyclist magazine agonised over a shortlist of 12 different
models, including competitors from Italy and Japan, before finally concluding
which bike had had the most profound impact on motorcycling in 2005.

Equipped with the same powerful four-cylinder engine as BMW's K1200 S superbike
and combined with outstanding innovations such as the BMW Duolever suspension
and optional Electronic Suspension Adjustment, press reports all over the world
have regarded the 163 bhp K1200 R as a leader in its class. Now, the naked
roadster has been rewarded with its first prestigious award.

"Give BMW credit for doing what Japan wouldn't or couldn't do: bolt serious
horsepower into a big, comfortable naked bike. This German translation leaves
its contemporaries looking relatively underdressed when it comes to
technological accoutrements," said Motorcyclist magazine.

The magazine added: "After re-inventing the heart and soul of its motorcycle
line-up in little more than a year, BMW clearly isn't afraid of thinking
outside the box. In fact, we're pretty sure it scrapped the box entirely."

As well as securing the ultimate honour, BMW Motorrad's top-selling R1200 GS
and R1200 RT also won the awards for Best Adventure and Best Touring Bike
respectively. Currently the fourth best-selling bike overall in the UK, BMW's
R1200 GS is no stranger to success. Last year it was awarded a Gold accolade in
the Industrial Design Society of America's International Design Excellence
Awards, as well as winning the Best Trailie award at the UK's prestigious Motor
Cycle News Awards.

Launched at the beginning of 2005, BMW's new generation R1200 RT has gone on to
top the touring sales charts thanks to its outstanding ride comfort and 'active
touring' capabilities. Motorcyclist said: "It balanced the comfort and
accoutrements that make 1,000 mile days possible with unexpectedly athletic
handling. There's a heated seat, electronically adjustable suspension and even
a sensor that checks the oil while you ride. What more could the dedicated
motorcycle touring enthusiast conceivably want?"

Customers can call BMW's information line: 0800 777 155 or visit
www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk for more information.

Ends

For further BMW press information please contact one of the following:

Andy Dukes / Lauren Haslehurst 08000 131 282
Tony Jakeman 01344 480 185