Once I was handed the keys to the then model new BMW HP2 Megamoto in August 2007, I already suspected that this check could be completely different. The Rosalien Mountains offered the proper backdrop for a bike that, like no different earlier than it, turned the conservative character of the Bavarian model on its head. Right this moment, 17 years later, I look again on a machine that modified BMW’s picture for good and paved the best way for the later S 1000 RR.
The primary impression: A luxurious insurgent
Even again then, I observed how the HP2 Megamoto prompted a stir on Vienna’s Gurtel. The intense flashes of the radar cameras turned a relentless companion, as a result of this machine simply wished to be pushed naughtily. The elegant white paint, which in all probability got here from the 7 collection, the true carbon components and the dominant boxer engine made it an eye-catcher. With a seat peak of 890 millimeters, it was positively not a bike for everybody – however that is precisely what it was by no means meant to be.
From the primary trip to a long-lasting reminiscence
The 1200cc boxer engine with its 113 hp might not be setting new information, however the brutal torque of 115 Nm at 6,000 rpm is deeply etched in my reminiscence. The mixture of the lengthy wheelbase, high-quality Ohlins chassis and the low middle of gravity of the boxer engine made the Megamoto a singular driving expertise. I notably keep in mind the direct connection between the throttle and the rear wheel – no damping chain, simply the pure cardan shaft.
The group speaks: Lengthy-term experiences
The years have proven that the preliminary scepticism in the direction of BMW’s radical experiment was unfounded. Within the boards, house owners report the superb longevity of the boxer engine. The standard teething issues of the early R1200 fashions, equivalent to clutch issues or leaky valve covers, occurred a lot much less steadily with the HP2 Megamoto – in all probability as a result of BMW labored notably rigorously right here and included expertise. A recurring theme in the neighborhood is gasoline consumption. If saved correctly, the Megamoto will fortunately devour 8-9 liters of Tremendous Plus, which suggests frequent refueling stops with a tank capability of simply 13 liters. However the house owners are blissful to place up with that – for a lot of, it has grow to be a valued second bike for particular events.
Technical facets from a long-term perspective
The benefit of upkeep is split: whereas routine work is comparatively straightforward due to the freely accessible boxer engine, the high-quality particular gear makes some repairs costly. The Ohlins chassis proves to be extraordinarily sturdy, offered it’s usually serviced. The brakes with out ABS require a effective really feel, however supply glorious controllability. The availability of spare components is essentially problem-free due to the technical similarity to the R1200 household. It is just with the HP2-specific components equivalent to fairing components or particular attachments that issues typically grow to be troublesome and costly.
Market worth and availability in the present day
The HP2 Megamoto has grow to be a sought-after collector’s mannequin. Whereas the unique new value introduced tears to the eyes of many potential consumers, well-maintained examples in the present day show to be surprisingly secure in worth. Costs for well-maintained examples begin at round 12,000 euros, and notably well-preserved fashions with low mileage are traded for considerably extra. Costs can simply attain 20,000 euros. Typically yow will discover used BMW HP2 Megamoto bikes with 1000 hp. The vary is manageable – solely round 20 examples come onto the market in Germany, Switzerland and Austria annually. events ought to pay specific consideration to the upkeep historical past and never be blinded by supposed bargains. A well-maintained instance with an entire historical past is well worth the cash.
Technical Information
| engine and drive | |
|---|---|
| engine kind | boxer |
| variety of cylinders | 2 |
| timing | 4-stroke |
| cooling | oil-air |
| displacement | 1170 cc |
| drilling | 101 mm |
| Hub | 73 mm |
| Efficiency | 113 hp |
| rpm at energy | 7500 rpm |
| torque | 115 Nm |
| rpm at torque | 6000 rpm |
| compression | 12 |
| coupling | Single-disc, dry |
| drive | Kardan |
| variety of gears | 6 |
| chassis | |
| Body | Metal |
| body development | lattice tube |
| entrance suspension | |
| suspension | Upside-Down telescopic fork |
| model | Ohlins |
| setting choice | compression stage |
| rear suspension | |
| suspension | single-sided swing arm |
| model | Ohlins |
| setting choice | compression stage |
| entrance brakes | |
| design | double pane |
| Pistons | four-piston |
| Recording | mounted saddle |
| rear brakes | |
| design | disc |
| Pistons | two-piston |
| Recording | floating saddle |
| knowledge and dimensions | |
| entrance tire width | 120 mm |
| entrance tire peak | 70% |
| rear tire width | 180 mm |
| rear tire peak | 55% |
| wheelbase | 1616 mm |
| seat peak of | 890 mm |
| dry weight | 178 kg |
| weight able to drive | 198 kg |
| tank capability | 13 l |
| high pace | 200 km/h |
| driving license lessons | A |
Conclusion from in the present day’s perspective
The HP2 Megamoto was forward of its time. What appeared like a radical experiment on the time has confirmed to be a trailblazer for BMW’s sporting future. The mixture of the best high quality parts, uncompromising tuning and the characterful boxer engine nonetheless makes it a singular bike in the present day. For tall riders over 1.80 meters who’re on the lookout for an distinctive bike and have the mandatory money, the HP2 Megamoto continues to be an fascinating choice in 2024. It combines traditional BMW virtues with a contact of insurrection – and that’s precisely what makes it a timeless character bike. My conclusion on the time is confirmed in the present day greater than ever: The HP2 Megamoto shouldn’t be a rational choice, however a matter of the center. And that’s precisely why its house owners like it a lot.
