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BMW goes full bagger/dresser with new R 18 B and Transcontinental

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BMW R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B

It is fair to say that the first editions of the R 18 have not been quite the sales success that BMW had hoped for.  You can’t really out-Harley, Harley-Davidson, but overnight BMW revealed the new up-spec touring versions of the R 18 that should provide much wider appeal.     

The centrepiece of the suspension in the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B is a double-loop steel tube frame manufactured in the Berlin-Spandau BMW Motorrad plant. Compared to the R 18 and R 18 Classic, however, for packaging reasons to enable a fuel tank enlarged from 16 to 24 litres, it is designed as a robot-welded double-loop tube frame painted in high-gloss metallic Black with a backbone made of sheet metal formed parts.

It is somewhat strange that BMW didn’t actually start the lineage of the new model here considering their proven reputation for comfortable long-range motorcycles fitted out with the latest and greatest technology in motorcycling. But in the new Transcontinental and R 18 B, BMW have put that experience to work to produce full-featured baggers that raise the game to a higher level with big fuel tanks, long travel suspension, great comfort and a comprehensive suite of both safety aids and infotainment. The new models are schedules to arrive in Australia this August and will be priced from $39,310* for R 18 B, and $41,675* for R 18 Transcontinental.

A mix of classic retro and modern convenience are the hallmarks of the cockpit lay-out

In the R 18 B we have a traditional looking bagger akin to something like Harley’s popular Street Glide. While with the Transcontinental we have the burger with the lot full dresser rival to Harley’s Ultra.  Both those models sell very well here in Australia for Harley and these new BMW models should certainly give them some very serious competition.

The chassis geometry of the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B has been adapted accordingly with the aim of achieving superior ride stability with good handling qualities – even in two-person operation and under full load. The steering head angle is now 62.7 degrees (R 18 / R 18 Classic: 57.3 degrees) and the wheel castor is 183.5 mm (R 18 / R 18 Classic: 150 mm). Compared to the R 18 and R 18 Classic, the wheelbase of the R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B has been shortened from 1,731 mm to 1,695 mm.

Special features of the new R 18 Transcontinental include: Front fairing with high windshield, wind deflector and flaps. Cockpit with four analogue round instruments and 10.25 inch TFT colour display, additional headlamp, Marshall sound system, engine protection bars, cases, top case, seat heating, chrome trim and an engine in Silver metallic.

BMW R 18 Transcontinental

In contrast, the new R 18 B does without a top case and, in the true style of a bagger, offers a low windshield, a slimmer seat and a matt black metallic engine among other things.

Starting from the highest point – the handlebar-mounted front fairing – the flyline stretches from the fuel tank, which has been increased in size to 24 litres compared to the R 18 and R 18 Classic, and slopes down towards the rear, creating an elongated, teardrop-shaped silhouette in “streamlining” style. The two cases with functionally integrated rear lights are firmly attached to the motorcycle. The design of the R 18 B in American “bagger” style is supplemented with a low fairing windscreen

The heart of the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B is the twin-cylinder boxer engine, the “Big Boxer”. Not only its impressive appearance, but also its technical specifications show its ties to the traditional air-cooled boxer engines that have provided inspiring riding experiences for more than seven decades since BMW Motorrad began manufacturing motorcycles in 1923.

Although the “Big Boxer” has four valves, dual ignition, a modern combustion chamber architecture, intake manifold injection and the BMS-O engine management system for the best possible torque as well as optimum consumption and emissions, it uses the classic OHV configuration for its valve drive – as was the practice pursued by BMW Motorrad over a period of some 70 years

The most powerful twin-cylinder flat twin engine ever built in motorbike series production boasts an engine capacity of 1,802 cc. It generates an output of 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm. In the 2,000 to 4,000 rpm range, it delivers more than 150 Nm of torque at all times as well as great pulling power and a sweet beat.

A single-disc dry clutch transmits the torque generated by the engine to the transmission. It is designed as a self-reinforcing anti-hopping clutch and thus eliminates the undesired stamping of the rear wheel caused by engine drag torque when shifting down hard.

Talking of beats…. With the Marshall sound system, the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B promise an intense sound experience. As standard the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B feature a sound system developed in collaboration with the British manufacturer Marshall, featuring two-way speakers integrated into the front of the fairing. Black cover grilles with white Marshall lettering round off the classic look. 

The Marshall Gold Series Stage 1 and Stage 2 sound systems are available optionally ex works to provide even more intensive listening pleasure. Special features of these sound systems are the grey cover grilles of the speakers in combination with golden Marshall lettering. The Marshall Gold Series speakers feature neodymium magnets and modified speaker cones to provide even better sound quality than the standard speakers.

The Marshall Gold Series Stage 1 and Stage 2 sound systems are optionally ex works to provide even more intensive listening pleasure. Up to four loudspeakers and two subwoofers with 280 watts of total output.

DAB and DAB+ for top-quality, unadulterated listening pleasure and reception stability
DAB-FM following. The received signal is compared and the best signal is automatically selected.
Equalising profiles – listening-optimised profiles for output adaptation for a perfect audio experience o via the helmet: one profile (studio). o via loudspeakers: four profiles (bass-boost, treble-boost, voice, balanced).

The cockpit, specially designed for the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B, with four analogue round instruments and a 10.25 inch TFT colour display, blends into the classic appearance.  

The new R 18 Transcontinental and as well as the R 18 B are equipped as standard with a sound system developed together with the British manufacturer Marshall featuring two 2-way loudspeakers, each with 25 watts output, integrated into the front fairing black grille and white Marshall lettering

Featuring the iconic “BERLIN BUILT” lettering, it follows the classic style of the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B on the one hand, and on the other hand offers a perfectly readable TFT colour display providing a maximum of functionality and information.

The Marshall Gold Series Stage 1 equips the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B with a system of a total of four speakers plus a booster (amplifier). Two Marshall 2-way loudspeakers with 25 watts of output each are integrated into the front fairing. They are each complemented by a 90 watt subwoofer in the front upper section of the cases. The booster has an output of 180 watts.
Marshall Gold Series Stage 2 – The new R 18 Transcontinental is equipped with the Marshall Gold Series Stage 2, a system of six loudspeakers and a booster that meets even the highest demands in terms of sound quality and listening pleasure while riding. Two Marshall 2-way loudspeakers with 25 watts of output each are integrated in the front of the fairing, each complemented by a 90 watt subwoofer in the upper front area of the cases. In addition, there is a 2-way loudspeaker with 25 watts of output in the front side section of the top case backrest. The booster also puts out 180 watts.

Navigating the screens is by way of BMW’s very well proven multi-controller wheel set-up on the left bar.

That multi-controller wheel is well proven and intuitive to use

The suspension elements of the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B use a telescopic fork and a directly swinging-arm mounted cantilever suspension strut with travel-dependent damping and automatically adjustable spring pre-load. 

Depending on the load, the spring rest (“spring preload”) is adjusted on the basis of information from a height sensor via a hydraulic unit actuated by a servomotor and linear drive so that an optimum riding position is always achieved.

In order to achieve the best possible ride response even when riding with a pillion and fully loaded, the rear suspension strut features progressive damping and automatic load compensation. 

The entire area of the fork tubes is clad with a cover extending to the slider tubes in the form of contemporary fork sleeves made of stainless steel.

As in the legendary BMW R 5, the tubes of the telescopic fork are encased in fork sleeves. The fork tube diameter is 49 mm, suspension travel is 120 mm at the front and rear. 

The R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B feature cast light alloy wheels at the front and rear. The 3.5 x 19” front wheel is equipped with tyres of the dimensions 120/70 R 19 or 120/70 B 19 (depending on the manufacturer), while a 180/65 B 16 tyre is used on the 5.0 x 16″ rear wheel. Furthermore, Original BMW Motorrad Accessories offers the possibility of retrofitting design rims in chrome, Machined or 2-Tone-Black.

The new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B are decelerated by a double disc brake at the front and a single disc brake at the rear in conjunction with four-piston fixed callipers and BMW Motorrad Full Integral ABS. 

The tiles shown can be used to select the “My Motorcycle”, “Radio”, “Navigation”, “Media”, “Phone” and “Settings” menus. There is seamless integration of the display and operation of the optional extras Riding ACC and audio/radio

The R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B are already equipped as standard with DCC electronic cruise control (Dynamic Cruise Control). DCC automatically regulates the riding speed set by the rider. Dynamic means that the pre-selected speed is kept constant even when riding downhill. Active Cruise Control (ACC) allows relaxed gliding with distance control – without the rider having to adjust the speed to the vehicle in front. With the aid of radar sensors integrated in the front fairing, the motorcycle is either accelerated automatically to adjust the speed or the new, standard full integral braking system is applied for deceleration purposes, depending on the situation on the road. ACC also ensures particularly safe cornering. Where necessary, the cornering control system automatically reduces the speed, giving the rider the right speed for a comfortable and safe banking angle. 

In the traditional BMW Motorrad boxer design, the two pushrods actuate one pushrod per cylinder side for the intake and one for the exhaust side, guided in a sealed pushrod tube on the top of the cylinders. The two intake and exhaust valves in the cylinder head are actuated in pairs via fork toggle levers. The valve clearance is compensated for – as has been the case for decades with most classic air-cooled BMW two-valve boxers – by means of one adjusting screw with lock nut per valve.

The new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B feature a casual, so-called mid-mount pegs, entirely in keeping with the BMW Motorrad philosophy of the best riding position for control of the motorcycle. This classic position behind the cylinders is not only typical of BMW, it also allows a relaxed and active riding position for the best possible motorcycle control.  That said, a foot-forward position for highway cruising can be achieved via the accessories catalogue, as can be seen below.

A foot-forward set-up can be achieved via the options catalogue

The R 18 Transcontinental is equipped with an especially comfortable seat and seat heating as standard to ensure long-distance riding comfort even in two-person operation. The R 18 B has a somewhat slimmer two-person seat bench. The new R 18 Transcontinental is fitted as standard with running boards and the new R 18 B with wider and more comfortable footrests than the R 18.

The seat height is only 740 mm (R 18 Transcontinental) or 720 mm (R 18 B).

Right from the time of market launch, the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B will be available worldwide as exclusive R 18 Transcontinental First Edition and R 18 B First Edition versions. They combine the R 18 look with exclusive features in classic black paintwork with white double-lining. Further highlights are the specially designed surfaces (Chrome Package), high-grade stitching on the seat and the “First Edition” lettering.

BMW R 18 Transcontinental is equipped with an especially comfortable seat and seat heating as standard to ensure long-distance riding comfort even in two-person operation.

The Original BMW Motorrad Accessories range offers a maximum of individualisation options for tailoring the R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B to your personal taste. The design collections of milled aluminium parts familiar from the R 18 and R 18 Classic, which were created together with Roland Sands Design, are also available for the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B. With regard to audio systems, BMW Motorrad cooperates with the British manufacturer Marshall. For the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B, BMW Motorrad offers a range of particularly high-quality and exclusive optional extras as “Option 719”, such as Option 719 Galaxy Dust metallic paint finish and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories.

The new R 18 Transcontinental is equipped as standard with running boards for rider and pillion; the new R18 B features footrests. The running boards – rider running boards are optionally available for the R 18 B – combine a comfortable seating position with a traditional look. Rider leg rests, also available as BMW Motorrad Original Accessories, ensure a particularly relaxed riding position on the highway. An infinitely adjustable rocker switch is available for particularly comfortable gear changes as part of the running board equipment.

BMW R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B highlights

  • Handlebar-mounted fairing for excellent wind and weather protection.
  • High windshield (R 18 Transcontinental).
  • Low windshield (R 18 B).
  • Cases in body colour paint finish (27 litres, with audio 26.5 litres).
  • Vibration-decoupled top case in body colour paint finish (48 litres, with audio 47 litres, R 18 Transcontinental only).
  • Wind deflectors in body colour finish (R 18 Transcontinental only).
  • 24 litre fuel tank.
  • Cockpit with four analogue round instruments and 10.25 inch TFT colour display.
  • Biggest ever BMW boxer engine with a capacity of 1 802 cc.
  • Output 67 kW (91 hp) at 4 750 rpm, maximum torque 158 Nm at 3 000 rpm.
  • More than 150 Nm available at all times from 2 000 to 4 000 rpm
  • Open-running, gloss nickel-plated universal-shaft drive based on the classic role model.
  • Elaborately manufactured double-loop tube steel frame with backbone of sheet metal formed parts provide the optimal package.
  • Rear swinging arm with enclosed axle drive in rigid-frame design.
  • Telescopic fork with fork sleeves and cantilever spring strut with travel-dependent damping as well as automatic load compensation ensure optimum riding under all conditions.
  • Comfortable ergonomics for relaxed cruising and touring with the best possible motorcycle control.
  • Disc brakes at the front and rear and cast light alloy wheels.
  • BMW Motorrad Full Integral ABS.
  • Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) as standard.
  • Active Cruise Control (ACC) – cruise control with integrated distance control for relaxed touring as an ex works option.
  • State-of-the-art LED lighting technology, classically interpreted.
  • Adaptive turning light with swivel module for even better illumination of the road when cornering as an ex works option.
  • Engine guard (R18 Transcontinental only)
  • Seat heating as standard (R 18 Transcontinental only).
  • Heated grips as standard.
  • Continuously adjustable rocker switch (in connection with running boards; standard for R 18 Transcontinental).
  • Keyless Ride for convenient activation of functions.
  • Three riding modes as well as ASC and MSR as standard.
  • Reverse assist for convenient manoeuvring and Hill Start Control for easy hill starts as ex works option.
  • Three attractive colours: In addition to black and the 719 Galaxy Dust metallic option, the new R 18 B and R 18 Trancontinental are also available in Manhattan metallic matt.
  • The R 18 Transcontinental “First Edition” and R 18 B “First Edition”: Exclusive look in paint and chrome.
  • Extensive range of optional extras and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories as well as a cool Ride & Style Collection.
  • “Option 719” equipment available as particularly high-quality and exclusive optional equipment and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories. 

The full R 18 line-up

The full R 18 line-up
BMW R 18 B

BMW R 18 B Deluxe: $39,310*

Standard specification

  • 1,802cc 2-cylinder boxer engine, air/oil cooled, 9.6:1 compression, EU5, 67kW (91 hp) @ 4,750 rpm, 158Nm at 3,000rpm
  • Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
  • ABS
  • 3 riding modes (Rock, Roll, Rain)
  • Keyless Ride
  • Spoke wheels
  • Twin disc front brake
  • Spring Strut Auto Load Levelling Dampers
  • Telescopic forks with covers
  • LED headlight, taillight, brake light and indicator lights
  • 12V socket
  • MSR (Dynamic engine brake control)
  • Adjustable hand levers
  • 4 Analogue instruments with 10.25″ colour TFT Display
  • Active Cruise Control
  • 24 litre fuel tank
  • Lockable fuel cap
  • Hill Start Control
  • Headlight Pro (inc. Adaptive Headlight and Daytime Riding Light)
  • Floorboards
  • Tyre Pressure Monitor
  • Central Locking
  • Heated seat
  • Marshall Gold Series Stage 1 sound system
  • Heated Grips
  • Reverse Gear
  • Active Cruise Control
  • Anti-theft alarm system
  • Seat height: Standard 720mm (Comfort Seat High 740mm, Option 719 Seat Bench 720mm)
    Options
  • First Edition package (inc. Black Storm Metallic with Design Option Chrome and pinstriping, contrast cut wheels, First Edition badging and First Edition key): $3,750
  • Comfort seat high: $590
  • Design option chrome: $2,260
  • Option 719 Design Package Aero: $1,550
    Colour options
  • Manhattan Metallic: No cost option
  • Black Storm Metallic: No cost option
  • Option 719 Galaxy Dust metallic/Titan Silver 2 metallic and Option 719 seat bench: $4,170

R 18 Transcontinental Deluxe: $41,675*

Includes all standard specification from the R 18 B and adds the following:

  • Top case
  • Straight exhaust pipes
  • Highway bars
  • Wind deflectors
  • Marshall Gold Series Stage 2 sound system
    Options
  • First Edition package (inc. Black Storm Metallic with Design Option Chrome and pinstriping, contrast cut wheels, First Edition badging and First Edition key): $3,750
  • Comfort seat high: $590
  • Design option chrome: $2,260
  • Option 719 Design Package Aero: $1,550
  • Manhattan Metallic: No cost option
  • Black Storm Metallic: No cost option
  • Option 719 Galaxy Dust metallic/Titan Silver 2 metallic and Option 719 seat bench: $4,170
    Colour options
  • Manhattan Metallic: No cost option
  • Black Storm Metallic: No cost option
  • Option 719 Galaxy Dust metallic/Titan Silver 2 metallic and Option 719 seat bench: $4,170
BMW R 18 Transcontinental

*Recommended Retail Pricing is shown and includes GST, but excludes on-road costs. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW Motorrad dealer for all pricing enquiries.

Source: MCNews.com.au

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BMW unveil electric urban mobility scooter & eTrike

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BMW Dynamic Cargo eTrike & Clever Commute eScooter Concepts

The BMW has already presented a number of micromobility solutions to the public in the past, and have now added the electrified bicycle Concept Dynamic Cargo trike and the e-scooter Concept Clever Commute to that line-up.

Jochen Karg – BMW Group’s New Technologies and China division

“Our goal was to develop a concept that retains the agility and driving feel of a normal bicycle while adding innovative, safe transport options. The Concept Dynamic Cargo is the first dynamic ‘pick-up’ cargo bike that combines driving pleasure with flexible use and increased year-round suitability.”

BMW Concept Dynamic Cargo trike

A compact, three-wheeled cargo bike concept with flexible usage options and increased year-round suitability, the Dynamic Cargo runs a loading platform with attachments for transporting loads and/or children as well as for leisure activities.

BMW Concept Dynamic Cargo trike

The key component of the three-wheeled Concept Dynamic Cargo is the front main frame, which is connected to the rear section via a pivot axle and tilts in corners. The rear section remains stable through all corners without tilting towards the road. The non-pivoting design of the transport platform has the additional benefit that the rider is barely aware of any extra weight being carried, enabling safe, stable transportation of all loads while also ensuring a pleasurable riding experience.

BMW Concept Dynamic Cargo trike

This combines with the electrified powertrain – which is activated as soon as the rider starts to pedal and drives the two rear wheels – to make the cargo bike just as easy to ride as a standard bicycle.

This can be fitted with a selection of innovative modular attachments for carrying luggage and/or children. The modular design principle paves the way for many more use cases, too.

BMW Concept Dynamic Cargo trike

The concept is rounded off by a facility for adding a system of weather protection. The BMW Group will not manufacture the Concept Dynamic Cargo but is already in discussions with potential licensees.

BMW Concept Clever Commute

Ergonomic design meets riding stability and an extremely compact design that can be packed up, in the Clever Commute. This scooter is ideal for park and ride, with the minimal size when packed making it ideal for carrying in a car boot.

BMW Concept Clever Commute

E-scooters have established themselves in the urban mobility mix, thanks to sharing schemes in particular. They offer flexible usability and the ability to get city dwellers to their destination extremely quickly over short “last-mile” urban journeys.

The uptake of e-scooters for private ownership in comparison has been relatively slow to date. Robust models that can be ridden safely are difficult to take onto public transport or carry by car due to their size, while small, more portable models suffer from poor riding stability.

BMW Concept Clever Commute

As such BMW Group presents an e-scooter that folds easily for carrying on public transport and/or by car without compromising on riding stability in any way. In public transport mode, the footboard folds up at the sides and the rear wheel pivots into the aperture from below.

This mechanism shortens the wheelbase of the Clever Commute substantially so that it can even be carried on an escalator without difficulty. This is an important requirement if the journey includes underground transport routes.

BMW Concept Clever Commute packed into a car boot

It can also be rolled along on both wheels in this mode, rather like a trolley case. And the front wheel’s integral hub motor provides an electric impulse that makes it easier to push up ramps. The e-scooter’s compact dimensions when folded up means it should be possible to take it on all forms of public transport free of charge.

The Clever Commute can be folded up to a size that fits easily into small vehicle boots, with larger boots able to accommodate several for family outings.

Like the Concept Dynamic Cargo trike, BMW Group will not manufacture the Concept Clever Commute, it is already in discussions with potential licensees.

Both micromobility concepts have been designed in such a way that the electric range can be scaled with regard to the respective application. One final very important feature for city use is the battery pack, which can be removed and charged at home.

BMW unveil two new electric concepts, the Dynamic Cargo trike and Clever Commute scooter

Source: MCNews.com.au

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BMW RS 255 Kompressor | Blown Beemer from another era

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BMW RS 255 Kompressor

With Phil Aynsley

This BMW RS 255 Kompressor was constructed in the 1980s by ex-works racer Walter Zeller and BMW engineer Gusti Lachermaier as a demonstration bike for Zeller. It was built from original parts sourced from BMW.

BMW RS 255 Kompressor

BMW had began experimenting with supercharging in the 1920s with the supercharger mounted above the transmission. In 1935 the Zoller supercharger was moved to the front of the motor, which now sported DOHC heads.

The RS 255 made its debut at Avus and was campaigned up until the early 1950s in the German national championship (which continued to allow forced induction, which had been banned when GP racing resumed in 1949).

BMW RS 255 Kompressor

Perhaps its greatest triumph was winning the 1939 IoM Senior TT with Georg Meier becoming the first non-British rider to win the event.

Several World Speed records were set by the 255 in 1936 by Ernst Henne including a run of 272 km/h. Output was normally around 50-60 hp but that could be increased to 80 hp by upping the boost, while in road race trim weight was 138 kg.

Source: MCNews.com.au

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BMW partner with Marshall to upgrade sound systems

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Motorcycles and Music

BMW Motorrad has long been engaged in intensive development work on its sound systems. With its now agreed long-term partnership with world-renowned British company Marshall Amplification, the innovation and quality of BMW Motorrad sound systems are set to reach new heights.

For 60 years, Marshall, originally from Hanwell, London, now based in Bletchley, Milton Keynes (UK), have produced legendary guitar amplifiers used by the world’s best musicians. Since 2012 they have expanded their audio quality into award winning headphones and active speakers designed for music lovers.

BMW Motorrad promise to present the first new products resulting from this strategic partnership very soon and are expected to release the first details on the improvements at the end of this month.

The Marshall spirit combined with the development power of BMW Motorrad will in future be reflected in new innovative products for motorcycles and music, especially, Motorrad tells us, in the BMW Motorrad Heritage segment.

Currently the music sytems used by BMW that have speakers are on the heavyweight touring line-up consisting of the R 1200 RT and K 1600 GT models, thus we are intrigued as to what stereo systems BMW are going to use and in what models amongst their Heritage line-up. As the R 18 cruiser models are incorporated into the Heritage range we expect that more touring focussed models based on that platform will be where the new stereo systems will be used, rather than music systems being fitted to bikes of the R nineT range, which also come under the Heritage umbrella.

Source: MCNews.com.au

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New BMW CE 04 electromobility scooter from $20,350

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BMW CE 04

BMW CE 04

While the likes of Ducati and MV Agusta are releasing news of E-Bike partnerships and products more akin to bicycles, a few hours further north the Germans are readying to release a new EV motorcycle platform in the first-quarter of 2022 when the new BMW CE 04 arrives to spearhead BMW’s electromobility strategy for the urban environment.  The new EV scooter will be priced from $20,350 +ORC.

BMW CE 04

The CE 04 is a production ready model that has its origins in the BMW Motorrad Concept Link originally showcased in 2017 followed by the Definition CE 04 prototype first unveiled in 2020.

BMW CE 04

The newest member of BMW’s zero emission fleet features electric drive, modern futuristic design and innovative connectivity solutions.

BMW CE 04

A maximum output of 31 kW (42 hp) propels the CE 04 from 0 to 50 km/h in 2.6-seconds. A reduced output version will be available in some markets where the L3e-A1 vehicle class attracts reduced licencing requirements.  Both versions will be suitable for highway use with a maximum speed of 120 km/h. 

BMW CE 04

The new BMW CE 04 has a battery cell capacity of 60.6 Ah (8.9 kWh), providing a range of 130 kilometres (reduced output version: 100 km).

BMW CE 04

The new BMW CE 04 has a permanent magnet electric motor mounted in the frame between the battery and the rear wheel, as used in a similar form in BMW cars such as the 225xe Active Tourer.

BMW CE 04

The lithium-ion battery is charged using the integrated charging device either at a regular household socket, a wallbox or a public charging station. When the battery is completely flat, charging time ideally lasts 4 hours and 20 minutes. With the quick charger available as an optional extra with an output of up to 6.9 kW (2.3 kW is the standard level), charging time is reduced to just 1 hour and 40 minutes when the battery is completely flat. If the battery level is only 20 per cent and the battery is charged to 80 per cent, the charging time is reduced to just 45 minutes with the optional quick charger. Depending on the market, the standard charging cable with a charging capacity of 2.3 kW comes as standard with the BMW CE 04.

In the same way as with BMW automobiles, BMW Charging solutions are also available for the BMW CE 04 for charging at home, on the road and at work.

A traction control system is available on the new BMW CE 04 and is comparable to the Automatic Stability Control in BMW motorcycles with combustion engines. ASC limits engine torque in relation to rear wheel slip. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), available as an optional extra, provides even greater riding safety. DTC enables even more safe acceleration, especially in banking position.

BMW CE 04

The new BMW CE 04 features the three riding modes “ECO”, “Rain” and “Road” as standard. The additional “Dynamic” riding mode is also available as an ex works option, enabling the scooter to accelerate at an even swifter pace. Different braking energy regeneration levels are present dependent on the riding mode that is selected.

The main frame is a tubular steel construction. The front wheel is controlled by a telescopic fork with a slider tube diameter of 35 mm. Rear wheel control consists of a single-sided swing arm. At the rear, suspension and damping are performed by a directly controlled, fully covered spring strut. The new BMW CE 04 is fitted with generously sized tyres, with 120/70 R15 67H at the front and 160/60 R15 56H at the rear.

BMW CE 04

At the front, a twin disc brake ensures secure deceleration, supported by a single-disc system at the rear. In addition, BMW Motorrad ABS ensures a high level of active safety. ABS Pro, available as an optional extra, goes even further: By means of a banking sensor, ABS Pro also controls braking on bends, thereby offering the greatest possible safety.

BMW CE 04

The new BMW CE 04 comes fitted as standard with a 10.25-inch TFT colour screen with integrated map navigation and connectivity. The screen makes it possible to display a navigation map within the instrument cluster.

As you would expect LED lighting is employed across the machine and an adaptive turning light Headlight Pro will be available as an ex works option. 

BMW CE 04

The modern surface finish is in a striking Light White, complemented by matt black sections in the front and side areas as well as the “floating” seat. The rims feature a disc-wheel look. The new BMW CE 04 in Avantgarde Style (ex works option) appears in Magellan Grey metallic is supplemented with a black/orange seat, an orange wind deflector and various graphics.

BMW CE 04

BMW CE 04: $20,350* Standard specification

  • Liquid-cooled permanent magnet electric motor
  • 30 kW (42 hp) output
  • 62 Nm torque
  • 8.9 kWh air-cooled lithium ion high voltage battery
  • 2.3 kWh charger
  • Tooth-belt driven gearbox (total gear ratio: 10.5)
  • Dynamic Package (Headlight Pro, Adaptive Headlight, Daytime Riding Light, Riding Modes Pro, ABS Pro)
  • Comfort Package (Heated Grips and Backrest Comfort Seat)
  • Seat Heating
  • Tyre Pressure Control
  • Centre Stand
  • LED indicators
  • LED headlight and taillight
  • 10.25-inch TFT display
  • Ventilated mobile phone charging compartment
  • USB-C charging port
  • Front and side storage compartments
  • Light White paint

Options

  • Backrest Comfort Seat II: No cost option (note: recommended for riders above 190cm tall)
  • Windshield High: $140
  • Anti-theft alarm system: $375
  • 30A Quick Charger: $1,330

BMW CE 04 Avantgarde: $20,690*

Includes all standard specification from the CE 04 and adds the following:

  • Windshield High
  • Magellan Grey Metallic paint
  • Options
  • Backrest Comfort Seat II: No cost option (note: recommended for riders above 190cm tall)
  • Anti-theft alarm system: $375
  • 30A Quick Charger: $1,330

*Recommended Retail Pricing is shown and includes GST, but excludes on-road costs. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW Motorrad dealer for all pricing enquiries.

BMW CE 04

Source: MCNews.com.au

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2020 BMW S 1000 RR recalled for loose rocker arm screw plug

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Motorcycle Recall Notice

PRA No. – 2021/19015
Date published – 24 Jun 2021
Campaign number – 00 00 11 27 00

Supplier – BMW Australia Ltd
Traders who sold this product – Approved BMW motorcycle dealers
Where the product was sold – Nationally
Dates available for sale – 20 February 2020 – 20 March 2020

BMW S 1000 RR K67 Motorcycles
Model Year 2020

84 affected motorcycles

See attached VIN list.

What are the defects?

The screw plug in the rocker arm was not sufficiently tightened during manufacturing. As a result, oil may leak from the affected bolting points.

What are the hazards?

An oil leak may affect the rear tyre. If this occurs it will result in a reduction in traction for the wheel and increase the risk of an accident resulting in injury or death to the rider and/or passenger or other road users.

What should consumers do?

Consumers will be contacted by BMW Group Australia or a BMW Motorrad dealer. Consumers can contact an authorised BMW Motorrad Service centre, or call the BMW Group Interaction Centre on
1800 813 299 to arrange for inspection and repair.

Consumers can also contact BMW Australia via the BMW Motorrad Australia website:
https://www.bmw-motorrad.com.au

Source: MCNews.com.au

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ASBK Insights – Road bike to race bike in 24 hours

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2021 mi-bike Australian Superbike Championship

We had a chat with Shane Kinderis this morning after the NextGen BMW head honcho had just sent his latest acquisitions out on track at the opening practice session of the Hidden Valley round of the Australian Superbike Championship in Darwin. Shane picked up two new BMW M 1000 RR motorcycles in Darwin on Wednesday afternoon and has been burning the midnight oil ever since in a quest to prepare the bikes for competition this weekend. We spoke to him just after FP1, but before FP2 today.

Trev – Anecdotally, I have heard the wings on the bikes have made a dramatic difference to the confidence your riders had on the bikes when you previously tested the M bodywork on your current race bikes before actually getting an M bike. Has this surprised you? And them? 

A standard BMW M 1000 RR as it comes off the showroom floor

“Yes. We have had some bodywork for a while and tested it at Wakefield and both Glenn and Lachy came in, I guess more confused than anything else, because where they expected the benefits to be there wasn’t, but where they weren’t expecting it, there was. Mostly under braking, the bike is so much more stable under brakes, it really grounds the bike I guess would be the best way describe it. While at high speed their first comments were that it made it harder to change direction, the bike sort of wanting to resist, which is once again, not what we expected. They definitely do something, and that was on the old bikes, we actually had to put 10 mm more pre-load on the front forks to get them off the bottom under brakes, obviously we would get to changing spring rates etc. but when we were just trying the bodywork out for the first time, we literally just ran the fairings for one session at Wakefield to see what they did, and yeah, we were very surprised.”

NextGen BMW M 1000 RR being prepped in the pits in Darwin on Friday morning – Image RbMotoLens

Trev – And I know we have been across this before in previous chats, but just again for our readers can you again explain the advantages the rear suspension linkage has on the M model, compared to the linkage designed for the much longer travel stroke of the Marzocchi electronic Dynamic Damping Control shock on the other S 1000 RR models?

“So basically the new M has a more, I guess a known rate, your normal 2:1 linkage ratio, which means you don’t have the shaft speeds that you do with the other linkage which works the poor (race) shock so hard that it just overheats it, as with the linkage designed for the electronic shock it works our conventional race shocks twice as far as it should. But with the M we gain more benefits than that, it’s just not the linkage, the swing-arm is different, the back of the frame is different, the linkage ratio is actually adjustable also. It is quite a complex mechanism in the back linkage now.”

BMW M 1000 RR

Trev – And have you been working with and taking advantage of the ShiftCam technology by changing the phasing of the cams at all in race trim? As standard the cams change over at 9000 rpm. 

“ShiftCam is used in our race package, we would never remove it. They remove it in British Superbike because the spec’ ECU used in that series doesn’t have the capability to drive it, but for sure we are using ShiftCam.”

Trev – As for the independent control of the throttle bodies in pairs. For the uninitiated this essentially enables tuners to smooth out the power delivery at major lean angles by feeding one pair of cylinders more air-fuel mixture to increase drive, before then progressively adding more power by bringing in the remaining two cylinders at a different rate as lean angle lessens and grip increases.   Riders can also toggle this functionality on or off while on track.  Have you been working with this functionality during testing Shane? It must almost be a time black-hole development wise, if you really want to use this feature to its maximum extent?

“To be honest, since the latest software update, we haven’t touched it, we are just using it ‘as supplied’. We have put the same software package in the new M bikes we have just got, but we had to change the internal firmware of the ECU, because these bikes generate so much more power, there are different torque numbers etc. used in the calculations, to make it all work, even though the ECU is the same, we have had to put the firmware version in it that is specific to the M.”

BMW M 1000 RR

Trev – Are Glenn and Lachlan changing their power delivery or traction control maps on the fly during race conditions, as the tyres go away later on in the race? 

“Yes, always, always.”

Trev – Is the launch control good enough now for the racers to use all of the time? Again, for the uninitiated, the launch control on even a standard S 1000 RR can be programmed for rider weight and whether the launch will be on a slight incline or decline, for the ECU to work out how best to launch the bike and feed the power in. 

“We have never not used it, since the newer bikes came along, generally Glenn and Lachlan always gain places on every start, we used to get poor starts, but since the bikes got launch control I don’t think we have ever gone into turn one a position lower down than what we had qualified.”

Trev – A few years ago BMW moved away from using Brembo calipers to the American made Hayes caliper, along with a Nissin master cylinder. Now for the M bike Nissin calipers are used with zinc-nickel coated steel pistons with added cooling features integrated into the calipers and thicker disc rotors. This might be a significant step forward, have the boys mentioned anything about the bikes this morning?

NextGen BMW M 1000 RR – Image RbMotoLens

“Their first comments were wow.. obviously Glenn is one of the hardest brakers in the championship, and he came in and said heading to turn one he had to let go of the brakes and get on the throttle again. Up until now we have used the same GaleSpeed master cylinder that we used on the previous bikes, so literally the only difference this morning was the Nissin caliper and they both said ‘holy’, ‘just unbelievable.’”

BMW M 1000 RR uses different calipers made by Nissin

Trev – You going to be running the carbon rims that come standard on the M?

“Funny story… The carbon wheels, the M has different wheels, nobody told us, so we only have one set of wheels for each bike for the weekend. We were unaware they were different.”

NextGen BMW M 1000 RR – Image RbMotoLens

Trev – Different how?

“Because of the under-slung rear caliper, the rear disc rotor sits out about 40 mm wider. It is actually outside of the line of the wheel. That said it is proper World Endurance stuff it drops straight in. I would have thought that they would simply produce some sort of adaptor for the disc and use the same carbon rims as are available for the other S 1000 RR models, as I wouldn’t imagine they would engineer a whole new carbon rim design, but they have.”

Quite a few valve-train changes for M 1000 RR

Trev – BMW claim 212 horsepower (5 up from S 100 RR) at 14,500 rpm stock from the M 1000 RR. 113 Nm at 11,000 rpm and an increased rev-limit to 15,100 rpm. The M engine has lighter but stronger Mahle two-ring pistons (each piston is 12 grams lighter), tweaked combustion chambers, new camshafts with more lift and an increased compression ratio to 13.5:1 (from 13.3), along with longer and lighter shot-peened Pankl titanium (S 1000 RR uses tempered steel) rods. Fully machined intake ports, even smaller and lighter rocker arms (width reduced from 8 mm to 6.5 mm – weight reduction of six per cent) and various other small tweaks.  Are you using the stock M engines this weekend or are you putting the engines out of your current race-bikes into the M bikes this weekend until you get the engines in the M machines run in and prepped? 

BMW provided dyno charts comparing S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR

“Both boys just came in smiling after that first session, going ‘crikey’ it’s fast. And that was just after getting off the previous race bike on to this new standard M model and they were pulling another gear down the straight.

“One of the main objectives of the M is the engine. Obviously, I am a well-seasoned engine builder but check out the photo I took on my phone of the CNC ports last night.

Purdy ports

“They are spiralled CNC ports, so they put a spin in the air before it even goes into the port, which can only really be done with CNC machining, they are an unbelievably magnificent piece of equipment, I am seriousy impressed.

“Air-box is completely different, the variable intake trumpet mechanisms are different, and we’ve got another 1000 rpm with the titanium con-roads and all that. Both boys just came in and they were literally both gobsmacked at how much faster the bike was, how much quicker it accelerates.

“The engine changes are significant, cylinder head different, rods are different, pistons are different, two-ring pistons not three. They are claiming five more horsepower difference, but I have never seen with all these changes, CNC head etc. and all the other bits and pieces make only five horsepower. 

“Lachlan come in and said he was behind Oli and caught him and could have passed him, the first time he has been able to draft the V4 Ducati.”

Trev – The chassis geometry is also quite markedly different on the M bikes. Steering head angle and fork offset are different, the swingarm is a significant 12 mm longer and you now have more adjustments available in regards to pivot point. The front-rear balance of the standard M bike is also quite different with less weight on the front end (52.1 per cent on the M compared to 53.8 per cent on the R). With all those changes, suspension and set-up wise, you seem to be essentially starting from scratch this weekend despite the limited practice time available. So with this in mind I have to ask, are you mad? 

Completely. “Absolutely and completely. I cannot thank our guys enough for what we have done. We had two road bikes at 3pm Wednesday, and we haven’t had much sleep since then.”

Glenn Allerton shaking down the new M 1000 RR at Hidden Valley today in ASBK Free Practice – Image RbMotoLens

BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Video on the M 1000 RR

ASBK Hidden Valley Schedule

Friday, 18 June
10:25am – Practice 1 (40 min) FOX Sports
2:20pm – Practice 2 (30 min) FOX Sports

Saturday, 19 June
10:15am – Qualifying 1 (20 min) FOX Sports
10:40am – Qualifying 2 (15 min) FOX Sports
2:05pm – Race 1 (16 laps) FOX Sports/Channel 7

Sunday, 20 June
10:50am – Race 2 (16 laps) FOX Sports
2:05pm – Race 3 (16 laps) FOX Sports/Channel 7

2021 ASBK Championship Calendar (Updated)

  • Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC February 18-21 Cancelled
  • Round 2 Winton Motor Raceway, Benalla, VIC March 12-14
  • Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn, NSW April 16-18
  • Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, NT – Supercars 2+4 (Superbikes only) June 18-20
  • Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, QLD August 20-22
  • Round 6 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend, SA September 23-26
  • Round 7 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn, NSW October 15 – 17 *
  • Round 8 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC November 5-7 *

Alpinestars Superbike Championship Standings

Pos Rider Total
1 Wayne MAXWELL 91
2 Troy HERFOSS 81
3 Mike JONES 74
4 Cru HALLIDAY 65
5 Glenn ALLERTON 64
6 Bryan STARING 54
7 Jed METCHER 47
8 Arthur SISSIS 46
9 Oli BAYLISS 45
10 Matt WALTERS 42
11 Lachlan EPIS 36
12 Josh WATERS 27
13 Anthony WEST 24
14 Michael EDWARDS 22
15 Mark CHIODO 22
16 Yannis SHAW 21
17 Nathan SPITERI 20
18 Luke JHONSTON 17
19 Aiden WAGNER 15
20 Aaron MORRIS 14
21 Philip CZAJ 10
22 Hamish McMURRAY 4
23 Sash SAVIN 3

Darwin ASBK Entry List

  • #1 Wayne Maxwell – Ducati
  • #2 Mark Chido – Yamaha
  • #3 Jed Metcher – Yamaha
  • #12 Matt Walters – Kawasaki
  • #13 Anthony West – Yamaha
  • #14 Glenn Allerton – BMW
  • #16 Luke Jhonston – Yamaha
  • #17 Troy Herfoss – Honda
  • #21 Josh Waters – Kawasaki
  • #25 Daniel Falzon – Yamaha
  • #28 Aiden Wagner – Yamaha
  • #32 Oli Bayliss – Ducati
  • #37 Michael Edwards – Yamaha
  • #46 Mike Jones – Ducati
  • #51 Corey Turner – Yamaha
  • #61 Arthur Sissis – Yamaha
  • #65 Cru Halliday – Yamaha
  • #67 Bryan Staring – Kawasaki
  • #83 Lachlan Epis – BMW
  • #92 Jack Davis – BMW
  • #333 Yanni Shaw – Suzuki

Source: MCNews.com.au

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BMW’s 2021 beginner G 310 options arrive from $6,960 + ORC

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2021 BMW G 310 R & G 310 GS

BMW’s 2021 editions of the G 310 GS and G 310 R will be arriving in Australia for $7,345 and $6,960 + ORC respectively. The smallest motorcycles in the BMW range boasts a number of refinements for 2021 in the roadster style G 310 R or adventure oriented G 310 GS.

2021 BMW G 310 R

Running a proven 313 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, the G 310 models now feature ryde by wire for sharper throttle response. Automatic idle speed increase when starting also prevents sudden stalling of the engine, which had been a rider complaint on their predecessors.

A slip-assist clutch is also new, reducing engine drag torque on aggressive deceleration while reducing the required operating force at the clutch lever.

2021 BMW G 310 R

The new BMW G 310 R now features a full-LED headlight for even better visibility at night and LED flashing turn indicators for increased visibility in traffic.  Three light functions – high beam, low beam and daytime riding light – can be conveniently operated using the left handlebar controls.

Both the clutch lever and the handbrake lever are also reach adjustable in four stages and are more suited to those with small hands.

2021 BMW G 310 R

Styling updates for G 310 models include cues from the S 1000 R, while three new colour schemes will be available to further set apart the updated models.

The BMW G 310 models are powered by a 313 single-cylinder engine producing 25 kW and 28 Nm of torque, with USD forks and a preload adjustable rear shock unit. BMW Motorrad ABS is standard, with DRLs, full LED lights, a radial front brake caliper and single disc.

2021 BMW G 310 R

Wheels are cast aluminium items, keeping weight down, with a passenger handrail, one-piece seat bench and the choice of Cosmic Black or Polar White in the G310 R, or Limestone Metallic for a $160 premium.

The G 310 GS adds a luggage rack and comes in Polar White, or 40th Anniversary Cosmis Black, or Kayanite Blue Metallic, with the latter two demanding a $125 premium.

The 2021 BMW G 310 R alongside the G 310 GS

Source: MCNews.com.au

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BMW Two-in-One Tech Gloves ready for winter

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BMW Two-in-One Tech Gloves

BMW 2-in-1 Tech gloves have arrived in time for winter. The 2-in-1 Tech glove is a flexible and comfortable sport-touring glove, featuring ‘twin-chamber’ technology.

The first chamber or layer is unlined and ensures ideal levels of grip thanks to a kangaroo leather construction. The second chamber is a breathable Gore-Tex membrane ensuring wet or varied weather will not be a concern.

Riders have the option of changing between chambers depending on the conditions, with colour markings to differentiate the chambers as well as making them easy to put on and take off.

BMW Two-in-One Tech Gloves

A wiper lip on left index finger helps clearing your visor, while the tips of the index finger and thumb can be used to operate touchscreen devices.

The BMW Two-in-One Tech gloves are CE-certified according to DIN EN 13594 and come in Black/Grey in sizes 6-6.5 through to 12-12.5.

They can be a tight fit at first but do loosen up a little, thus if trying them on it may pay to keep that in mind if you do like your gloves fitting snugly over the long term. I haven’t got them soaked enough yet to report on the effectiveness of their water-proofing, but I do generally rate BMW gear very highly and I have little reason to doubt they perform as described.

They are available at all BMW Motorrad dealers for $300 RRP.

Source: MCNews.com.au

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2021 BMW R 1250 RT to arrive from $34,590 + ORC

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2021 BMW R 1250 RT

Pricing for the 2021 BMW R 1250 RT variants has been released, with updates for the new year model including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), BMW Full Integral ABS Pro and Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) as standard equipment.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT

All models offered for Australian customers also feature Riding Modes Pro, which enables configuration of ride modes to individual rider preferences.

The bike also features a new LED headlamp with swivel function, alongside a new high-definition 10.25-inch TFT colour screen that can display a map in the instrument cluster.

The Audio System 2.0 of the R 1250 RT improves the sound experience of its predecessor, while a splash proof storage compartment with USB connection allows easy phone storage and charging.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT

A styling revision is thanks to newly developed front fairings enhancing the RT’s aerodynamics.

The R 1250 RT is powered by the 1245 cc ShiftCam boxer, producing 100 kW and 143 Nm of torque, Hill Start Control, immobiliser and the Comfort and Dynamic packages as standard, with a host of inclusions.

The R 1250 RT also runs BMW Motorrad Paralever and Telelever suspension, with a rebound and preload adjustable suspension strut, plus steering stabiliser.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT Elegance

Other features include a standard luggage rack, full LED lighting, heated grips, dynamic brake light, centre stand, electronically adjustable screen, with standard seat height 805 or 825 mm, and arriving in Alpine White. Low and High seat options are available as a no cost option, and a Sports Silencer is available for $1,360 RRP.

The new R 1250 RT will be available in four variant levels – RT, Elegance, Sport and Option 719, starting at $34,590* plus on-road costs for the base RT.

The 2021 R 1250 RT Sport will start from $35,490* plus on-road costs and will be available in Racing Blue Metallic, adding the Style Sport package.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT

The 2021 R 1250 RT Elegance starts at $35,190* + ORC and includes the Style Elegance package in Manhattan Metallic.

Finally the 2021 R 1250 RT Option 719 will be available from $39,390* + ORC in the Option 719 Mineral White Metallic colour scheme and includes the Billet Pack Storm and Billet Pack Storm II, as well as the Billet Pack Shadow and Billet Pack Shadow II.

Classic and Sport wheels are optional for $1250, as is bench style seat at $350.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT

Source: MCNews.com.au