Posts by tag: Boxer

BMW April 10, 2020 posted by Donn

Ghost Gray Light* – 2007 BMW R1200S

More than ten years since the last one was made, the R1200S was only recently bumped off BMW’s air/oil-cooled throne by the R1250RS. This stealthy example has been nicely updated by the East L.A. owner.

2007 BMW 1200S for sale on eBay

Beside the 100cc additional displacement on board the hex-head R1200S, the compression ratio was increased to 12.5-to-1. Thanks to electronic knock sensors and the ECU’s control of ignition timing, premium gas will get you 122 hp. The chassis was lightened and is more of a trellis affair than the R1100S, though the tele-lever and paralever suspension will be familiar to any BMW fan. 320mm brakes are complemented by factory braided lines, and the dual exhausts feed a common catalyst and underseat muffler. There’s a big step up to the pillion, which is a nice backstop for the solo rider, but it’s hidden by a body-color cover.

Almost broken in at 22,430 miles, this R1200S presents nicely in its silver and black monochrome. Though they were available as factory options, this one got the 5.5-inch rear wheel and Öhlins front and rear shock after the fact. The R1200S had a lightweight ABS system available, not sure if this bike has it – though a front sensor ring is there. The addition of a rear fender is very unusual, and ceramic coated exhaust looks great. The comprehensive list of updates from the eBay auction:

Upgrades from stock are pretty minor and in my opinion, in very good taste and all take offs included:

– Remus headpipe and factory muffler both removed and ceramic coated so no blueing…ever. Looks amazing. Remus exhaust is no longer available FYI.
– EVAP canister removed
– Upgraded to wider OEM sport rear wheel
– Rear hugger added to keep tail section clean
– Helibars added, 1″ taller. Originals not included.
– Suspension upgraded to factory Ohlins, rebuilt and springs replaced (180 lbs rider) less than a year ago. Original front and rear suspension included
– Seat replaced with leather Corbin. Two originals included, both with cracked covers.
– Tank grippers added. Tech Spec if I remember correctly.
– Passenger pillion seat is MIA and didn’t come with the bike. Passenger pegs removed but included. Nobody wants to sit back there anyway.
– Puig double bubble clear windscreen. Original is included, but was painted black.
– Front fender pained black instead of factory silver. Looks much better and stays cleaner looking.
– Odyssey battery freshly installed
– Shorty Pazzo adjustable or like new stock levers, whichever you prefer
– Rear factory bags and racks added. I also keyed the lock cylinders to match the ignition. These are insanely expensive, but really make the bike more usable for long trips.

BMW put the R1200S on a diet, and was moderately successful with a wet weight under 470 lbs., and fans will tell you it feels more stable because so much of the engine weight is down low. Can’t say the same for the factory hardbags, but they can be in the closet until they’re really necessary. The R1200S is knocking on the door of a cult classic, a booming crescendo to the oil-cooled boxer -S variant that started way back in 1998. This one does it almost at a whisper.

-donn

BMW October 28, 2019 posted by Donn

Just Broken In – 2004 BMW R1100S

Almost a lightweight by BMW standards, the R1100S was available without all kinds of bells and whistles. Luckily for us, the owner of this example was thinking long term, and specified ABS, heated grips, and nice option paint. Phenomenal for nearly 68,000 miles, this might lower the bar for a transition over from cruising or touring.

2004 BMW R1100S for sale on eBay

BMW showed the R1100S in late 1997, and it met a rousing reception as a ’98 model. Not so many changes were required over the years, and the 2004 edition makes just under 100 hp using a novel single cam method to open four valves per cylinder. Always pushing the suspension envelope, BMW equipped the R1100S with the Telelever front end, the fork tubes more of a locator with spring and damping done with a conventional-looking shock absorber. The shaft-drive rear is classic BMW, via the Paralever monoshock. The package is compact if not underweight, with a generous supersport fairing protecting the rider.

Looking like it might have done all those miles around a carpeted room rather than west Texas, this R1100S shows nicely. Though photos without the bags would’ve been nice, there’s no evidence of scuffs from keyring, tankbag, or boots. The selling dealer invites a look at the service records in the eBay auction:

This is a rare two owner BMW that is a remarkable find… it has been meticulously maintained… we have a maintenance log from the owners that will blow your mind…great color, immensely loved and ready for the road. The miles on this bike will fool you, you won’t believe how nice it is in person.

BMW’s first /S in many years did well, and had their own BoxerCup race series mostly in Europe. Stateside they sportily piled on the miles, stable and comfortable, and signature reliable. Part of my pre-purchase inspection would be a listen for any bottom end noises, since even BMW rod bearings don’t last forever. But if the dealer hasn’t set the reserve too high and the new owner is handy, this R1100S could be a nice bargain and surprise the inspectors at the next coffee stop…

-donn

BMW August 31, 2019 posted by Mike

About Time: 1982 Krauser-BMW MKM1000

I must admit, I’ve been sitting on the sidelines on this one. After the 3rd or 4th time around on eBay, I figured it was about time I wrote it up here (it was already on our Facebook site). After all, it is a freaking Krauser frame with seemingly pristine bodywork. That makes this a rare bird. A pretty bird. A pretty rare bird. The pinnacle of the early 1980s frame game (spearheaded by Bimota, but with Harris, Spondon, Elgi and others close behind), Krauser was one of the few tuners that offered performance products for BMW; the other was Luftmeister. And while the latter focused primarily on turbocharging for relatively cheap grunt, Krauser was an all around performance shop. They offered bolt-on bits, bodywork, engine upgrades (including custom 4-valve heads), and the crown jewel of them all, the MKM1000 kit. Meant to transform the staid “Gentleman’s Express” into a true sports bike, the Krauser kit accepted BMW running gear into a bespoke (and very trick) frame. Custom bodywork completed the transformation from sheep to wolf.

1982 Krauser-BMW MKM1000 for sale on eBay

Under the skin is where the Krauser MKM1000 really shines. Following the Bimota route of utilizing straight tubes to properly channel loads, the MKM (Michael Krause Motorcycles) frame is often referred to as a “birdcage” type. Painstakingly time-consuming and expensive to create, this complex arrangement of straight tubes results in a stiffer frame that is also lighter than conventional frame arrangements. The 1000cc BMW boxer motor appears to hang in mid-air in an unusually high manner. This is because Krauser lifted the engine to provide more cornering clearance for the vulnerable cylinder heads. Shaft drive, along with the rest of the tranny and running gear of the donor R100 was maintained.

From the seller:
Here we have a Krauser MKM1000 in stunning condition.

Ultra rare super low production numbers. An opportunity to own one of perhaps 200 built. This is number 42. The quintessential collectible Airhead, it doesn’t get any better than this. Mileage is 29,573 kms (18483 miles).

The bird cage frame, which there are 52 straight tubes and four curved chromium molybdenum tubes welded together at 150 points, weighed in just 11.6 kilograms. A series of other changes were made when integrating the R100RS parts. Engine sat slightly higher, front forks were 38mm lower, rake and trail were increased, wheelbase made longer by 43mm, custom rear sets, 21 litre aluminium fuel tank hidden under the elegant one piece tank cover, seat and rear cowling. A matching aerodynamic fairing was developed for the autobahn and a wider swingarm allowed for a wider rear wheel and rubber. Weighing just 496 pounds wet, the MKM was lighter than all of its competition, including the Ducati Super Sport and the Moto Guzzi Le Mans.

Recently complied for road use in New Zealand and has a current warrant of fitness. This can be exported to any port in the world. Please ask for shipping details.

On paper – and in person – the MKM1000 really looks like a competitive threat to similar sporting hardware of the era. Light in weight, aerodynamic in form and purposeful in stance, the Krauser offering could have been a contender. But while the airhead BMW unit is revered for longevity and it’s bulletproof ability to eat up mile after mile, it is far from a powerhouse. With heavy crank and rods it doesn’t rev particularly quickly, and even BWM gave up on it when they entered WSBK racing with a more conventional inline four. The jacking effect of the shaft drive can get in the way of spirited cornering, and while its effects can be minimized with some suspension tuning it is always present. So while the paper tells a tale, the proof was not exactly the same. All in all, the Krauser MKM1000 was well reviewed and an iconic and rare unicorn for the Beemer faithful.

As mentioned above, this particular bike has been around the auction block for a few tries. It is located in beautiful Auckland, New Zealand, which is currently in the winter season. The seller appears willing to ship to all ports of call, which makes this a particularly good find. Better yet, hop over to the northern of the NZ islands and enjoy the fabulous Kiwi hospitality, take in the sights and sounds, check out the bike in person, and then bring it back home. Now that sounds like a great vacation souvenir. We have seen one or two of these amazing machines on these pages in years past, but they remain rare and pretty elusive. Check this one out here, and Good Luck!!

MV Agusta June 4, 2019 posted by Mike

Aged Art: 1978 MV Agusta 850 Monza

Let’s close out the recent spate of very beautiful MV Agusta models we’ve been posting in the last week or so with this beautiful example of the old school art. Designed before the days of Tamburini involvement, this classic 850 Monza has a look all its own, without the #metoo styling that seems more common today. This was the stuff of legends, the scoot of choice for riders such as Phil Read and Giacomo Augustini. Alas the glorious MV Agusta factory was already in financial free fall when this beauty was built, and plans were in play to exit the motorcycle space entirely. That makes the model among the last of the original MV Agusta line to be built. It took until 1980 for the last of the inventory to go, and with it went the hopes and dreams of the Agusta family. MV Agusta lay in dormant slumber until 1991, when Cagiva swooped in on trademark ownership rights, and set out to revive it with a bang – the new F4 models being introduced fully 20 years after this 850 Monza made its swan song.

1978 MV Agusta 850 Monza for sale on eBay

From the seller:
MV AGUSTA 850S MONZA 1978, ONE OF THE LAST 27X TO BE BUILT BEFORE THE FACTORY CEASED PRODUCTION OF MOTORCYCLES. ORIGINAL FULL FACTORY FAIRING. BIKE FULLY RESTORED 9 YEARS AGO WITH VERY LITTLE MILES SINCE. BEAUTIFUL CONDITION. COMES WITH ORIGINAL OWNERS MANUAL AND FULL DOCUMENTATION OF AUTHENTICITY

Powered by an 837cc air-cooled, inline four cylinder engine with DOHC, the Monza had but two valves per cylinder (while the Japanese competition offered four). The cylinder block was situated atop sand-cast cases that also housed the 5 speed transmission. Final drive was via shaft – a novelty in the sport bike world. Power was estimated to be in the 80-ish range, while weight was approximately 570 lbs. Perhaps the most interesting part about the 850 Monza is the last-gasp aspect of the design. History shows that the Monza bikes were actually unsold Americas which were tuned and and fitted with optional extras in order to move them. Originally based around the 750cc base design (check out the serial number), the Monza was also sold as an 832cc. Only the final 27 bikes carried the 850 moniker. Nomenclature also varied, as these were known as Boxers in the UK, and Super Daytonas in Germany, while being referred to as Monzas in the rest of the world. From an auction perspective Monzas are rare and valuable. The 832 variants are reliable high five digit sellers. This 850 Monza – the last of the original breed – is located in Australia and bidding begins at $110,000. That is very strong money, but considering this is one of 27 of the final model line, it just might be worth checking out. Pictures are few and with low resolution it is difficult to make out detail; serious bidders might want to request additional images. A fitting close to the flood of MV Agustas posted as of late, this is a nice example of old school art done right. Good Luck!!

BMW April 7, 2019 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 2007 BMW R1200S

Somehow, weird isn’t exactly the adjective that leaps to my mind when someone says, “BMW.” I mostly picture skinny European men in their late 40s designing ergonomics with a supercomputer, getting every detail down to its most efficient and sensible form. But, then I look at the 2007 BMW R1200S and I have to wonder whether those buttoned-down engineers weren’t enjoying one hell of an acid flashback when they designed this thing.

It’s an incredible machine, and a shame that there are so few of them knocking around. The 1,200cc twin-cylinder boxer engine is both antiquated and a technological marvel, generating 122 horsepower and 83 torques out of architecture nobody but BMW would dare still use. Then there’s the fact that this sportbike, which tipped the scales at 482 pounds ready-to-ride, wears a single-sided swingarm that contains a shaft final drive. Up front, there is BMW’s excellent but odd telelever suspension set up. All this on a bike that ze Germans drew up as a track and canyon carver.

The R1200S bowed in 2006 to replace the long-serving R1100S, and came in substantially lighter and more powerful than the older bike. Power was up thanks to a compression bump and some fueling and timing tweaks, and weight was down thanks to an entirely new steel trellis frame. Despite all that, the R1200S was a tough sell, since it rode somewhere less comfortably than a true sport tourer, but lacked the all-out aggression of an R1 or similar. In ’08, Bimmer replaced it with the even more ludicrous HP2.

This R1200S has been ridden enough to show enthusiasm, but is in absolutely impeccable shape, as you would expect from something this rare and special. It is equipped with a quick-turn throttle, smoked windscreen and tank pads, but is otherwise as it left the dealership.

From the seller:

Grey 2007 BMW R1200S, 14900 mi, Clean Canadian title. Heated grips & ABS. All original except for Techspec tank pads, RRRapido Quickaction throttle pulley & light smoke windscreen. The bike is in extremely good shape. The Pirelli Angels have approx. 25% wear on them.

The bike will come with some specialized tooling; valve adjusment shims, spark plug removal tool, Carbtune Pro synchronizer.

If you are looking here I don’t have to explain how rare and how good this bike is.

Located in Montreal, Canada.

Asking price, 6900 USD.
Contact Steve: stevemongrain74@gmail.com

For $6,900, you’re paying Suzuki DRZ money for a very rare, very fast and very cool and entirely out there machine. If you’re looking for a long-term do-it-all bike, here’s your mount.

BMW July 19, 2018 posted by Donn

Three-Tone – 2005 BMW R1100S Boxer Cup Replika

BMW developed and supported the Boxer Cup series in the 2000’s to showcase their R1100S, and had a special edition Boxer Cup Replika available toward the end of the run. Special livery, suspension and components set the editions of 300 apart from the normal -S. This Jersey native is spotless with low miles for a Beemer.

2005 BMW R1100S Boxer Cup Replika for sale on eBay

Using BMW’s well-known 1085cc twin, the R1100S has 98 hp available, with Bosch fuel injection and dual catalysts keeping everything legal. The “Cup” used extended fork tubes and shortened Paralever torque arm to provide additional lean angle for the track. Laser provided the dual underseat exhausts, and other Replika parts included a slightly lower 6th gear, 5-1/2 inch rear wheel, carbon head covers, and pillion seat cover in body color.

This BCR looks very nice indeed, without even the usual right boot scratches on the seat cover. Not sure about the whereabouts of the lower fairing, or as BMW likes to call it, the engine spoiler, maybe home in a box. Nothing in the way of upgrades or options seen or claimed, in the eBay auction:

2005 BMW R1100S Replica of the Boxer Cup BMW racing bike
Only 1 of 200 built in perfect condition
11,000 Miles
No Reserve

Time didn’t stand still for the R1100S and it was soon eclipsed by the R1200S, HP2, and of course the S1000RR and its special editions. But it was a re-introduction of the -S for BMW, powerful and neutral handling if not light weight. The Cup ran from 2001-04, sometimes in support of the GP or Daytona, and sometimes an endurance race of its own, and has been re-incarnated this year on the R nine T. At least on a more technical circuit, the original BCR would likely dance away from the newer machine…

-donn

Three-Tone – 2005 BMW R1100S Boxer Cup Replika

BMW July 11, 2018 posted by Tad Diemer

One for the Road: 2009 BMW HP2 Sport for Sale

These days, when someone says “BMW sportbike,” two things happen. First, the squinty, asymmetrical S1000RR immediately springs to mind. Second, you don’t immediately burst into a fit of laughing: not long ago, “BMW sportbike” would have been something of an oxymoron. But people forget that, sandwiched in between the sporty-toury R1100S and the game-changing S1000RR, BMW introduced the very trick, limited-production HP2 Sport.

It was really intended to set the stage for the S1000RR, to show that BMW could be taken seriously as a sportbike manufacturer, that they had the technological chops to make a world-class machine. Of course, in the case of the HP2 Sport, they were applying that technology to a platform that would seem to be the anti-sportbike at first. It uses the same basic layout as the R1100S: horizontally-opposed twin with a longitudinal crankshaft, shaft drive, and BMW’s Telelever front end that used a traditional shock and A-arm set up, along with some fork tubes that aren’t actually fork tubes.

That setup has some advantages over a conventional fork, but is generally heavier and more complicated. It also makes the location of a radiator difficult, something that’s not such an issue here, since the flat-twin is oil and air-cooled. Speaking of that classic BMW engine: in the HP2, a whole catalog of exotic parts have been thrown at it to increase performance. New dual overhead cam heads, radial valves, and titanium connecting rods all add up to a claimed 128hp, and a 9,500rpm redline you could chase with the very first-ever, factory-equipped quickshifter.

In an R1100S, that power might not be much to shout about, but the HP2 has added lightness: carbon-fiber panels, a self-supporting carbon-fiber subframe, and a generally Lotus-like attention to detail meant a claimed dry weight of 392lbs. Not especially impressive in the sportbike world, but the package was sufficiently light to legitimately compete in terms of handling. And that was another surprise: the BMW Telelever system doesn’t always “feel like it should” and is sometimes criticized for offering vague front-end feedback, but a sportier front shock from Öhlins seems to have cured that. Unlikely layout aside, the HP2 was an excellent handler, and the Brembo monoblock calipers provide ferocious retardation for the lightweight machine.

From the original eBay listing: 2009 BMW HP2 Sport for Sale

For auction is my 2009 BMW HP2 Sport. It is in very good condition with 20,532 miles on the clock. It is a great running machine and has been maintained well. It has no known mechanical defects and needs nothing. It has been ridden as it was meant to be, but never abused or track ridden, but has not been stored in a living room. If you want a museum piece with zero mileage then this particular bike isn’t likely for you. If you do however wish to own and ride the ultimate BMW boxer sport bike then this bike is for you and at about half the price of new or some recently posted here on eBay. This machine is serial number 79 as seen in the photos. No one really seems to know for sure how many HP2 sports were produced for the world market, much less the USA market, but it seems about 250 or so. This is the last of my collection of seven BMW motorcycles that I have decided to sell. I have accepted a new job in another state and so all but one of my bikes and cars are going to be sold in the next two months. I work a lot of hours and weekends as well so I don’t have time to ride any of them. These bikes need to be ridden, as opposed to sitting here on a trickle charger gathering dust. I have been on eBay for many years and have great feedback and represent things as they are. Thanks for the interest and I will try to respond to questions as quickly as possible.

There are actually several HP2s up for sale at the moment, but while most are treated like museum pieces, this one has been ridden extensively, although mileage is still low for a BMW twin. Keep in mind that the service schedule calls for those titanium connecting rods to be replaced at 30,000 miles, but at least engine access is easy and you’re only looking at a pair of them… There isn’t much time left on the auction, and bidding is up to about half what HP2s usually go for. It looks like it’s in excellent condition and would be a great choice for a BMW fan looking to ride the ultimate twin in the way it was really intended.

-tad

One for the Road: 2009 BMW HP2 Sport for Sale

BMW March 28, 2017 posted by Donn

For a Beemer – 2004 BMW R1100S

After a 20-year break since the R100/S, BMW’s re-entrance to the more sporting side was thoughtfully considered, with lots of new engineering, and as they approach classic status, a great success. This nicely-updated R1100S looks excellent and fans of the brand would say, just broken in with 22,000 miles.

2004 BMW R1100S for sale on eBay

The R1100S arrived with concepts new to sportbikes – the four-valve 1085cc boxer, Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension with shaft drive, single-plate clutch, ABS, and some things newer to BMW – clip-on handlebars and underseat exhaust. BMW kept their vaunted build quality and usual Bosch fuel injection, but tried to leave the weight behind. The engine is a stressed member of the aluminum chassis, and the supersport fairing flows from the beak, over the tank to the pillion cover. Great power at 98 hp with 72 ft.-lbs. torque, and with a dry weight of 505 lbs. it’s light for a BMW.

Offered by an Illinois dealer, this R1100S looks well taken care of and has the optional grey / orange checkerboard. A more sporting build since the ABS, centerstand, and heated grips were left off. The owner has upgraded to Ohlins dampers on both ends, and added conspicuity lights on the fork legs. The bags look like they just came out of the closet where, handy as they are, they should be returned. From the eBay auction:

This 2004 BMW R1100S has only 22,370 miles and has had all of its maintenance performed by Cycle Werks in Barrington, we are an authorized BMW dealer. This bike comes with BMW Saddle Bags, Ohlins suspension, Aux. Driving Lights, and much more!

For a BMW it’s sporty, light, and this one with low miles, and though succeeded by the R1200S, the R1100S is regarded as the better track machine. The bike was the source of many years of the Boxer Cup, a single marque support series, resulting in the special edition Boxer Cup Replica. But you can find an R1100S at almost any track day or racing school, just look for the guy with no trailer, he’ll be riding it home…

-donn