Bmw R1200st

BMW R1200ST

Sport-tourer

The new R1200ST replaces the R1150RS, and according to BMW is targeted directly at the sport-touring market. Its competition? Machines such as the Ducati ST4S, the Honda VFR800 Interceptor and the Yamaha FJR1300.

That’s a tough group of bikes, and the new sporty Boxer has been given some tools to hang closer. First, it shares its claimed 110-horsepower flat-Twin and six-speed gearbox with the R1200RT. Second, its chassis mostly comes from the RT as well, and has received the same weight paring. The ST is claimed to weigh just 505 pounds with its 5.5-gallon tank brimming, which makes it quite competitive among its peers.

Styling is new and aggressive, and designed to both separate the ST’s identity from the RT and appeal to a younger customer (BMW is aiming for 60 percent conquest sales from competing brands). So the bulk of the fairing is quite low, and a unique headlight design looks unlike anything

else-for better and for worse.

The riding position is a roomy sportbike crouch, comfortable enough for long days on the bike. The small windscreen slides vertically a couple of inches on its track, but even in its highest position only partially breaks the windblast on the rider. The gas tank and forward fairing do a much better job at shielding legs.

Handling is noticeably different than that of the RT. With slightly more rake and trail, and narrower handlebars, the ST actually steers more heavily than its more touring-oriented cousin. Suspension, too, is noticeably tauter, and the ST can be leaned with confidence until the cylinder heads are nearing the ground. Brakes, with the same partial-integrated ABS system as the RT, are notably powerful.

All in all, the $14,990 ST promises to be the sportiest Boxer yet, but better than a VRF800? Better wait for the comparison. Steve Anderson