A welcome, urbane approach to a sport machine, the K bike’s German engineering and long-distance sensibilities offer a pleasing alternative to single-minded street missiles.

Whether by calculation or serendipity, BMW has effectively tapped into the psyche of perhaps the largest—and most quiet—category in motorcycling. It is a high-performance sport motorcycle that exudes sophistication and adroitly disguises comfortable ergonomics in a strikingly aggressive package. BMW has served notice that the sport category is no longer the domain of the Japanese or the Italians. (Click image to enlarge)

The fully faired BMW K 1200 S and its stripped-down brother, the K 1200 R, are otherwise identical, except for a slightly raised handlebar and abbreviated fairing on the R for a more upright riding position. But despite their close relationship, the two machines cultivate decidedly independent personas: The K 1200 S is suave and debonair, the K 1200 R a sophisticated bully for the street fighter crowd. What the K bikes share is a highly respectable performance curve with power and handling delivered in a manageable, prestigious package.

An all-new powerplant is at the heart of each machine. Instead of using its signature Boxer-twin platform, BMW developed a 1,157cc in-line 4-cylinder engine that delivers 167 hp at 10,250 rpm. It is the most powerful, highest-revving BMW ever. Add a peak torque rating of 96 ft lbs at 8,250 rpm and it enjoys a level playing field with its competition. As equally as impressive on paper, they are marvels in action. Without sacrificing the luxury of healthy low-end torque, the in-line four builds revs with exceptional speed, and delivers controlled, linear power. It starts off idle and continues evenly until just shy of redline. (Click image to enlarge)

The engine’s placement contributed significantly to the configuration of the machine’s frame. Intent on keeping the mass of the 4-cylinder plant low in the frame, engineers rotated the motor forward 55 degrees. This necessitated pushing the front wheel out, which resulted in a wheelbase stretched to 61.8 inches. Though long, the motorcycle gains increased stability, and handles corners with nimble precision. (Click image to enlarge)

BMW developed the Duolever suspension system for the new model’s front end. It employs longitudinal arms that resemble a pair of scissors in motion and allow the front wheel stroke to follow an almost straight up-and-down path. Unlike traditional telescopic forks, there is minimal influence to the rake and wheelbase. The Duolever also improves front wheel response by reducing the friction inherent to sliders on traditional forks. The new system’s only odd characteristic is that, at extremely low speeds—primarily in stop-and-go traffic—the front end tends to weave, with the sensation of low tire pressure.