BMW
Sure, BMW makes cars for wannabe Mercedes-Benz fans. But they also make bikes for those who won’t settle for anything less than the best.
F 650 GS
Though more well-known for their large bikes, BMW competes well in the Enduro class, as well. Their 652cc F 650 GS is only one of many that give them the right to brag about their models in the 250cc+ category.
Though it doesn’t offer much for carrying passengers, the lone rider will find it provides plenty of power and torque around town or in a rally. Liquid-cooled and single-cylindered the tight engine delivers plenty of both.
Unlike many single-cylinder engines, this baby has low vibration at high rpm (revolutions per minute). That’s widely appreciated on the Paris-Dakar rally, where it takes top honors. With a wheelbase of just over 58 inches (147cm) and a seat height of 30 inches (76 inches), riders will find it the perfect size for that kind of activity.
K 1200R
In recent years a new category of motorcycle has come into being: the naked bike. No, it isn’t a stripped-down off-road vehicle. At least, not any more. Today, these are the muscle bikes that provide huge power with few frills.
Ducati introduced the first models over 10 years ago, but BMW has really mastered the style. With 163hp and 94 ft-lb (foot-pound) of torque, the K 1200R has no trouble taking even a pair of riders on a power trip.
By definition, the naked bike lacks fairings and other standard additions installed as much for looks as for aerodynamic purposes. At low speeds wind resistance is a very minor percentage of the total drag. And under about 30 mph/50 kph, fairings contribute only a small percentage to eliminating wind resistance.
But these bikes are built for speed not looks. With a 16-valve, water-cooled, 1157cc engine, it delivers.
K 1200 LT
Of course, BMW is justly famous for their large, beefy bikes. The fully-decked K 1200 LT is a stellar example of that tradition. With full swept-back windscreen, ultra-comfortable driver and passenger seats (with a large backrest), this baby is the ultimate touring machine.
It has somewhat less power (116hp) and torque (86 ft-lb) than the R model, but all of it is smooth and quiet. The bike looks great, sounds great and rides great.
The suspension is BMW’s proprietary Telelever/Paralever (front/rear) design that provides one of the most comfortable road experiences of any large bike. And the curved handlebars provide a perfect ergonomic fit for those looking to make those long highway trips with less shoulder fatigue.
So, if you’re looking for one of the top 10 bike manufacturers on the planet, BMW has something in their lineup that is worth a long, hard look.