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Dirty Boxer
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BMW HP2
Jeff Buchanan
03/01/2006
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Photography by Mike Quindazzi
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The tall seat height of the HP2
results in potentially awkward situations on failed hillclimbs or getting stuck
in choppy terrain. Very quickly, you can find yourself frantically flailing your
legs looking for a foothold that is a critical few inches beneath your boot.
Fortunately, BMW built the HP2 to shake off low-speed tip-overs with nary a
scratch and riders planning to test the HP2’s off-road worthiness are well
advised to bolt-on the BMW accessory plastic hand and engine valve cover guards
before you even start the bike.
(Click images to enlarge)
The abundant torque of the Boxer-twin results
in a tractor-like pull with the HP2. This is most useful in slow-speed
situations off-road, especially in muddy conditions. Just drop the clutch and
the HP2 digs in and motors ahead. The 6-speed transmission is a nice touch for
the highway, but in off-road situations (save high-speed desert runs), first
through third will suffice. With 105 hp, it is exceedingly easy to spin up the
rear tire. In fact, most riders will never come close to using the available
power of the HP2 in an off-road situation. But it’s nice to know it’s there. The
HP2 is certainly not everyone’s cup of tea, but for off-road enthusiasts looking
for a unique, capable machine, the HP2 is going to be very hard to ignore.
www.bmwmotorcycles.com
Rawhyde Off-Road Adventures
With the increasing popularity of adventure
bikes, Jim Hyde saw a need to provide instruction in the various nuances of
off-road riding encountered with larger, heavier machines. Getting some basic
instruction can make the difference between an enjoyable day on the trails or a
ruinous calamity of mishaps. Knowing how to stay out of—as well as get out
of—the many challenging situations that can arise in the wilds of the off-road
can be learned at Rawhyde Adventures.
www.rawhyde-offroad.com
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