FIRST LOOK: 2008 BMW HP2 SPORT

Concept, Requirements and Features
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 optimized fairings made completely of CFK, the gear shift assistant, a dashboard like that used in the MotoGP, the forged aluminum 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 more than 96 kW/128 hp 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.  Customized 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-optimized 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 6-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 aluminum footrests, the adjustable stock handlebar and the Magura brake levers with radial mounted brake actuators.  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 lightweight construction of all components.  This includes not only the self-supporting front fairing and the likewise self-supporting carbon rear or the weight-optimized 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 favorable 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.

Model Designation and Marque
“HP” is the abbreviation for “High Performance” and the “2” in the model designation of this supremely sporty BMW describes the two-cylinder Boxer engine.  The term “High Performance” stands symbolically for the sporting performance idea, the achievement potential of the entire vehicle.

 “High Performance” – that is the skilful harmonization of all the individual components into a convincing whole that is more than the sum of the individual parts.  It is the synonym for a well thought-out overall design and perfection right down to the last detail, for the very best driving characteristics and pure, unadulterated riding pleasure.  It goes without saying that “HP” also stands for the prestige connected with an exceptionally high-quality and exclusive vehicle.

After the HP2 Enduro and the HP2 Megamoto, the HP2 Sport is the third representative of an independent motorcycle category from BMW fitted with the historic Boxer engine.  All the HP2 motorcycles mentioned use the technical basis of production vehicles, but are clearly differentiated by an uncompromising interpretation of their actual purpose through a conspicuous and emphatically resolute sports orientation and exclusive product features.

These exceptional motorcycles are developed with great passion by small teams of professionals.  The special team structure guarantees that the many years of experience of the development engineers, their grasp of the essential, personal know-how and “feeling” have a direct influence on the product.

At the same time these engineers make use of the most modern development and simulation tools plus all the technical facilities that BMW as a whole has to offer.  This symbiosis of high-tech and professional skill is what distinguishes the unique appeal of the HP motorcycles.

That’s why high performance motorcycles from BMW are something very special; they are exclusive and authentic and will remain greatly sought after.