BMW R 1150R Rockster Edition 80

Based on BMW’s aggressive new R 1150 R Rockster, the Edition 80 is BMW's 80th anniversary model. This is a limited edition of 2,003 motorcycles of which only 200 will be made available to the U.S. Each bike will have a serialized badge mounted on the frame.

The machine itself features the improved two-spark boxer-twin engine. It’s been clocked doing 0-62 in 4.2 seconds and can sprint down the tarmac at speeds up to 122mph. The new benchmark in next-generation high-performance Roadsters, the Edition 80 wears a special Alpine White/Sapphire Black Metallic finish setting it apart from anything else on the road.

Even standing still the Edition 80 epitomizes BMW design and performance. Every angle is sculpted and every detail calculated for a unique riding experience. Of the millions of motorcycles in the world, only 200 Edition 80's will be available in the U.S.

Review

I think I found one word to describe the new BMW R1150R Rockster: insatiable. I also think it’s probably, the most radical-looking motorcycle the modern market has ever seen. But aside from being a true engineering marvel, this bike is without a doubt an original machine. It’s amazing what happens when you fire up the Rockster's new two-spark engine. The most modern innovation in BMW boxer design, this two-spark design raises the bar on reliability and performance. And when we talk performance; Hallelujah!… the Rockster zooms across the asphalt at a shade over 120 mph, dashing from 0–60 mph in as little as 4.1 seconds.

Those of us who still remember when the German maker made basically one motorcycle painted in your choice of black, tend to be shocked when faced with the R1150R. It's not black. It's not a friendly, familiar face. It's not slow. In fact, no matter what angle you look at it, even when standing still on its center stand, the Rockster embodies velocity. Every corner, every angle, every perspective screams belligerence, from the asymmetrical headlights to the lurid paintwork and graphics in unique high-contrast black and citrus or black and orange war paint, this 2 wheel missile has a unique presence.

A completely new handlebar design features a 4-way adjustable brake lever and a 3-way adjustable clutch lever. Plus the Rockster comes with heated grips, in case cool weather and high speed have a chilling effect on your fingers. Above the headlamps is a small wind deflector that houses an instrument panel, which, in suitably peculiar fashion, combines a black-faced speedometer and white-faced tachometer.

This new Bimmer comes equipped with BMW Telelever (up front) and Paralever (rear) suspension system, as well as a high-tech chassis that carries the same spring strut up front as the BMW's streamlined racing model the R1100S.

Most of the Rockster's components, including its 1130cc, eight-valve, air-cooled engine come from the R1150R. This is the first of BMW's boxer motors to be fitted with the new twin-spark cylinder heads that will be introduced throughout the range this year. They're claimed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by giving more uniform combustion, but the motor's performance, including its peak power output of 85bhp at 6750rpm, is unchanged.

Chassis bits are also borrowed mostly from the R-bike, including the tubular steel space-frame with its Telelever front and single-sided rear suspension systems. Some parts are from the sportier R1100S, though, including the smaller front mudguard, the Telelever stanchions and the wider, 5.5-inch rear wheel, which wears a 180/55-section Michelin Pilot Sport in place of the standard model's 170.

Ergonomics are slightly altered by the Rockster's flatter handlebars and a seat, which at 835mm, is 35mm taller than the R's. This bike is not particularly light by naked bike standards, either, but its generous steering lock was helpful in traffic. And when the lights changed the Rockster stomped forward pretty rapidly. It pulled cleanly from below 2000 RPM, with a flat note from its twin pipes, working best between three and five thousand RPM.

On the open road the Rockster performs like all BMWs have always performed - superbly. It has a highway texture that is extremely satisfying. There is nothing frenzied about anything it does, nothing hasty, nothing is beyond its capabilities and nothing is permitted to intrude on its effortless, quiet passage. It doesn't devour distance so much as it rises above it, and there is no sense of weakening as the miles passes you by.

This is true not exclusively of the Rockster - it is true of all BMWs, and it's one reason why BMW owners keep buying new BMWs even though their hard earned money or rather savings accounts take a serious toll. But they all know the product endures. This loyalty and brand is very special. And most importantly, BMW buyers never feel ripped off, surprised in an unpleasant way, unfulfilled or even faintly disappointed. They have a vision of what they're getting, and if there's a gap between vision and reality, it can be promptly and pleasantly negotiated.

Typical BMW touches include a generously sized seat for both rider and pillion (shame there's no grab rail), and optional heated grips. On longer trips you're more likely to be annoyed by the motor's thirst, which has traditionally limited the R-bike's 5.3-gallon tank's range to less than 200 miles. Maybe the twin-plug heads will help fuel consumption slightly.

When we tried the Rockster on a straight-line, we felt it was decent without being razor sharp, then much the same was true of a chassis that gave the bike a very stable feel, plus enough agility to make for some fun in the bends. Much credit for that goes to the Telelever front end, which was a bit harsh on the wrists at slow speeds, but whose lack of brake dive made for solid and precise handling.
I particularly like the way the single-shock rear end worked; I felt a fairly firm ride and it sure soaked most of the nasty bumps effortlessly despite the weight of the drive-shaft assembly. Cornering clearance was good enough that only the footrests touched down even when the bike was cranked over far enough to make the Pilot Sport tires work hard. There's a hydraulic remote preload adjuster, as well as adjustment for rebound damping.

And let’s not forget the awesome EVO brake system which delivered an impressive blend of servo-assisted stopping power from the front 320mm discs and four-piston calipers, with occasional help from the optional ABS system to calm the sharp rear. Most other details were present, correct and typically BMW, including the small but useful mirrors, traditional annoying switchgear, and what promises to be an excellent level of finish.

One thing that's hardly a BMW trait is that the Rockster is priced very competitively. An eccentric naked bike like this is not for everyone, but don't be misled by the styling. This Rockster is built for people who are attracted to a vicious image, yet deep down really want something civil and sophisticated. And if that's what you’re looking for, then this Rockster will put a big smile on your face!