BMW's latest car designs might look like an acquired taste, but they're borderline bland compared to the company's lineup of motorcycles. With cylinder heads that look like footrests and oddball styling everywhere else, BMW bikes had a well-deserved reputation for uh...uniqueness.
But like any company that cultivates an oddball image, BMW's motorcycle arm realized that catering to such a small group of buyers creates an issue, like say when you want to sell a lot of bikes. In an attempt to turn the tide, BMW has been on a mission to give at least some of its bikes a more traditional look.
The K 1300 S you see here was just such a bike, and as you can see the quirky styling has been kept to a minimum. The fact that the bike uses a more traditional inline four-cylinder engine helps, not to mention that it's currently BMW most aggressive street machine. We put it next to what is arguably BMW's most aggressive car to see if there's any family resemblance creeping from one side to the other.
For now, the K 1300 S is the best example of BMW's new focus, but just a few weeks ago the company unveiled an even more dedicated sport bike in the form of the S 1000 RR. It's a direct shot at the Japanese liter bikes that dominate the segment both in price and performance.
So while BMW does its best to keep its cars firmly planted in the sport luxury segment, the company has finally decided to get serious about going after the Hondas and Suzukis of the two-wheeled world. We'll see if the automotive side ever feels so inclined, but don't count on it anytime soon.
tryan says:
07:45 AM, 07/ 6/09
BMW motorcycles are outstanding, it's the dealer support and network within the US that is lacking - as well as their consumer perception. Being perceived as a competitor to the big Japanese MFG's, but priced like a Harley, BMW is in a hard niche to sell volume.
I've had extensive seat time on various models, from the boxer-engined R1150 and R1200 series, to the absolutely ridiculous K1200 and K1300 bikes, and all have been amazing performers. I'm currently keeping my eyes peeled for a slightly pre-loved R1200RT or K1200GT - excellent sport touring bikes!
desmolicious says:
01:15 PM, 07/ 6/09
Actually the biggest news with BMW bikes is the adoption of 'standard' motorcycle switchgear with the new K13 series bikes.
The new S1000RR has been rumoured to put down 183rwhp...