Fundamentals
Posted: Wed Aug 29, 2007 12:27 pm
In 1994, BMW released to an utterly confounded public a naked version of its modern Boxer. Some loved its funky styling, some thought it just plain ugly, but it made a distinct impression on everyone. Mechanically solid, enough people liked R1100R's distinct lines to convince BMW that the only revisions necessary were a new chromed and concise instrument panel and larger headlight beginning in 1995.
On the road it's typical BMW: sure footed and torquey. Although the ergonomics are spread out and comfy, they are aggressive enough to tear up the back roads. The wide seat offers great support, and passengers love the rear seat accommodations, but long distance saddle endurance is hampered somewhat by the lack of wind protection and the high bars. It's not surprising then that one of BMW's best selling accessories for the R1100R is the windshield.
On twisty canyon roads, the R1100R rides exactly as designed. It is brilliant at a brisk pace. The no-dive telelever front end, excellent brakes, and quick steering geometry make the naked Roadster a confidence inspiring blast to ride. In city traffic, these same qualities create a nimble, powerful commuter bike. In stop-and-go situations the bike pulls slightly to the right, due mainly to the sideways-rotating mass -- but this is easily corrected. The major drawback of the R1100R is its width. The wide, protruding flat twin cylinders can make lane-splitting difficult in a state where it is legal.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: BMW
Model: R1100R
Price: $ 9,990 ($11,490 w/ABS) (1998 U.S. dollars)
Engine: Air/oil cooled twin
Bore and Stroke: 99 x 70.5mm
Displacement: 1085cc
Carburetion: Fuel injection
Transmission: Five-speed
Wheelbase: 57.99 in.
Seat Height: 29.9 to 31.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gal.
Claimed Dry Weight: 506 lbs.
On the road it's typical BMW: sure footed and torquey. Although the ergonomics are spread out and comfy, they are aggressive enough to tear up the back roads. The wide seat offers great support, and passengers love the rear seat accommodations, but long distance saddle endurance is hampered somewhat by the lack of wind protection and the high bars. It's not surprising then that one of BMW's best selling accessories for the R1100R is the windshield.
On twisty canyon roads, the R1100R rides exactly as designed. It is brilliant at a brisk pace. The no-dive telelever front end, excellent brakes, and quick steering geometry make the naked Roadster a confidence inspiring blast to ride. In city traffic, these same qualities create a nimble, powerful commuter bike. In stop-and-go situations the bike pulls slightly to the right, due mainly to the sideways-rotating mass -- but this is easily corrected. The major drawback of the R1100R is its width. The wide, protruding flat twin cylinders can make lane-splitting difficult in a state where it is legal.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: BMW
Model: R1100R
Price: $ 9,990 ($11,490 w/ABS) (1998 U.S. dollars)
Engine: Air/oil cooled twin
Bore and Stroke: 99 x 70.5mm
Displacement: 1085cc
Carburetion: Fuel injection
Transmission: Five-speed
Wheelbase: 57.99 in.
Seat Height: 29.9 to 31.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gal.
Claimed Dry Weight: 506 lbs.