All-New BMW M3 Earns Popular Mechanics Award
2008 BMW M3 Praised for its Elegant and Powerful Performance at Comfort Level Unmatched by Many Cars
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - November 14, 2007… BMW of North America today announced that its all- new 2008 BMW M3 has won Popular Mechanics' 2008 Automotive Excellence Award in the performance category. Martin Birkmann, BMW M Series Brand Manager, accepted the honor on behalf of BMW at the award reception, which was held today at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
"We are thrilled that the 2008 BMW M3 has won this year's Automotive Excellence Award for performance," said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO, BMW (US) Holding Corp. "BMW is dedicated to engineering vehicles that provide consumers with the ultimate driving experience and superior performance, so it is especially gratifying that the 2008 BMW M3 has won the award in the performance category. It just adds to the already incredible level of excitement and anticipation building around the launch of the M3 this spring."
The all-new 2008 M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan-which made their North American debuts earlier today at the auto show-arrive at dealerships in spring 2008 and will feature the first V8 in a series-production BMW M3. They will also feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing engine response, steering, damping and stability (with an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the preferences.) The vehicles also offer a sport-oriented interior, which can be optimized to the driver's desires.
In its December 2007 article about the Awards, Popular Mechanics automotive editors praise the 2008 BMW M3 as "..one of the few performance cars that can triumph at weekend track days and still carry four friends in perfect comfort and luxury to an evening movie…The M3 is elegant and powerful, and it does its job at a comfort level not many cars can match."
Each year, to determine the winners of the Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Awards, the magazine's editors drive more than 100 of the newest cars, trucks and sport-utility vehicles, amassing well over 100,000 miles in the process. Through their experiences on extended test drives around the world, instrumented comparison tests and longer-term evaluations, the auto team nominates a list of vehicles in each category. Those selections are put to a vote and the top vote getters in each category win an Automotive Excellence Award.
BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the ROLLS-ROYCE brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 339 BMW passenger car centers, 334 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 143 BMW motorcycle retailers, 80 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
Tuesday, 4 December 2007
BMW Introduces Three New Models
BMW plans to offer 20 motorcycle models in 2008, ranging from the 50hp G 450 X to the 167hp K 1200 S. BMW calls the lineup the most diverse the company has ever offered.
New models revealed at EICMA included the G 450X, F 800 GS and HP2 Sport.
G 450X
As a completely new model for BMW, the G 450 X represents a clean-sheet design. The BMW-designed single-cylinder engine incorporates fuel-injection, electric start, a crankshaft-mounted clutch, liquid-cooling and the DOHC head borrowed from the K 1200 S. A 30-degree cant to the cylinder provides a straight, downdraft intake with an overhead airbox; the fuel tank resides under the seat with a filler at the rear, and the exhaust includes a three-way catalytic converter for compliance with all current emission standards.
The bike puts out 50hp and has a wet weight of close to 265 lbs.
The G 450 X chassis includes a fully adjustable Ohlins rear shock, Marzocchi "upside-down" fork and Brembo disc brakes front and rear. The compact frame mates stainless steel tubing with stainless forgings and an aluminum subframe and swingarm. A unique hollow transmission output shaft places both the countershaft chain sprocket and the swingarm pivot on the same axis. This coaxial design reduces the chain's effect on suspension response, smoothes power delivery, minimizes chain wear, and provides a longer (by 30mm) swingarm for more travel and better traction.
F 800 GS
The 85hp parallel-twin-powered F 800 GS is slotted between the F 650 GS and the R 1200 GS Boxer-twin.
Aside from its 800cc displacement, the only items this new model shares with the original R 80 G/S are the cylinder count and the final two letters. This new F Series GS borrows the 85hp counter-balanced parallel-twin from the F 800 S and ST, swapping their belt final drive for an O-ring chain in its transition to adventure-touring duties. But engine aside, the newest GS shares little else with its smooth-tired siblings. An all-new tubular-steel frame carries the F 800 well above terra firma, suspended between lightweight, 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels. The suspension consists of an upside-down fork at the front, paired with an aluminum twin-spar swingarm at the rear. A single shock with adjustable preload and rebound damping controls the rear suspension. Brembo discs-two in front, one in the rear-handle stopping, and the optional two-channel ABS can be shut off for serious off-road riding.
HP2 Sport
Loosely based on the R 1200 S, the 130hp HP2 Sport is the most powerful Boxer-twin yet, and the first production DOHC Boxer in BMW history. It's also the most track-oriented production Boxer-twin ever to come from the firm.
Don't believe it? Need coaxing?
Aside from the powerful engine, the HP 2 is further designed for competition with a gear shift assistant that allows a rider to bang through the six-speed gearbox without using the clutch lever. It's decorated in carbon fiber bodywork, and has fully adjustable Ohlins shocks, Brembo four-pot calipers, and adjustable handlebars, footrests and Magura brake levers. Oh, and the instruments come directly from MotoGP — with digital readouts, lap timer and a tachometer with graphic rev display. Plan for 2008
BMW Motorrad delivered 82,779 motorcycles from January through September, up 4.3 percent from worldwide sales of 79,333 units during the same nine-month period in 2006.
BMW Motorrad has outlined three areas to be cornerstones for the company's continued growth in sales and profits: 1) a continuation of BMW's offensive in product development; 2) the development of a two-brand strategy as it pertains to the company's Husqvarna acquisition; and 3) an increase in profitability through the development of a broader global supplier system.
"Our goal is to sell more motorcycles to customers this year than last year," BMW Motorrad Director Herbert Diess said. "It's a big endeavor since breaking the barrier of 100,000 units sold in 2006. But we were well under way at the end of August, with the sale of 75,000 units accounting for 5 percent more motorcycle sales during the first eight months of this year than during the same eight-month period last year."
Diess made his comments prior to a reassignment within the company. As part of a "strategic realignment," the BMW Group created two new divisions in October. The first of the new divisions, Corporate and Brand Development, will be headed by former director of corporate planning, Dr. Friedrich Eichiner, and will be home to BMW Motorrad, Financial Services, Softlab, and any other new business units that are created. Diess now heads up the second new division, Purchasing and Supplier Network, primarily be responsible for lowering material costs.
Product Offensive
How will BMW Motorrad further its market share in the future? "Our goals are no doubt large, particularly considering the sales climate for motorcycles in Europe and North America," says Diess. "The model offensive we began in 2004 will continue. We plan to continue the product offensive we started in 2004 because we realize that it is the new product that will attract the new customers."
Husqvarna
Diess says the purchase of Husqvarna will allow the company to approach younger buyers and off-road and supermoto enthusiasts more quickly than it could have with the BMW brand. He also says Husqvarna's established worldwide sales network is another strong point for growth.
"If we want long-term gains, we have to diversify. We're confident Husqvarna has the potential to become a leading off-road brand. And, with this second brand, we now can grow in a segment that we previously were not in."
Profitability Through Purchasing
Since 2000, the Japanese Yen has lost value while the Euro has gained value. Diess says this exchange allows Japanese manufacturers to more easily optimize the value of their vehicles.
"What are we doing to combat that?" asks Diess. "First, we're improving the productivity of our suppliers and our plant in Berlin; second, we're looking for suppliers from around the world from which to purchase our parts and materials; and third, we are capitalizing on the technology and quality that differentiate the BMW brand from all of the others."
MotoGP
Peter Müller, head of research, development and production for BMW Motorrad, says the brand will enter World Super Bike competition in 2009 with a factory team.
BMW says further details — including motorcycle concept and team structure — have yet to be made available.
New models revealed at EICMA included the G 450X, F 800 GS and HP2 Sport.
G 450X
As a completely new model for BMW, the G 450 X represents a clean-sheet design. The BMW-designed single-cylinder engine incorporates fuel-injection, electric start, a crankshaft-mounted clutch, liquid-cooling and the DOHC head borrowed from the K 1200 S. A 30-degree cant to the cylinder provides a straight, downdraft intake with an overhead airbox; the fuel tank resides under the seat with a filler at the rear, and the exhaust includes a three-way catalytic converter for compliance with all current emission standards.
The bike puts out 50hp and has a wet weight of close to 265 lbs.
The G 450 X chassis includes a fully adjustable Ohlins rear shock, Marzocchi "upside-down" fork and Brembo disc brakes front and rear. The compact frame mates stainless steel tubing with stainless forgings and an aluminum subframe and swingarm. A unique hollow transmission output shaft places both the countershaft chain sprocket and the swingarm pivot on the same axis. This coaxial design reduces the chain's effect on suspension response, smoothes power delivery, minimizes chain wear, and provides a longer (by 30mm) swingarm for more travel and better traction.
F 800 GS
The 85hp parallel-twin-powered F 800 GS is slotted between the F 650 GS and the R 1200 GS Boxer-twin.
Aside from its 800cc displacement, the only items this new model shares with the original R 80 G/S are the cylinder count and the final two letters. This new F Series GS borrows the 85hp counter-balanced parallel-twin from the F 800 S and ST, swapping their belt final drive for an O-ring chain in its transition to adventure-touring duties. But engine aside, the newest GS shares little else with its smooth-tired siblings. An all-new tubular-steel frame carries the F 800 well above terra firma, suspended between lightweight, 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels. The suspension consists of an upside-down fork at the front, paired with an aluminum twin-spar swingarm at the rear. A single shock with adjustable preload and rebound damping controls the rear suspension. Brembo discs-two in front, one in the rear-handle stopping, and the optional two-channel ABS can be shut off for serious off-road riding.
HP2 Sport
Loosely based on the R 1200 S, the 130hp HP2 Sport is the most powerful Boxer-twin yet, and the first production DOHC Boxer in BMW history. It's also the most track-oriented production Boxer-twin ever to come from the firm.
Don't believe it? Need coaxing?
Aside from the powerful engine, the HP 2 is further designed for competition with a gear shift assistant that allows a rider to bang through the six-speed gearbox without using the clutch lever. It's decorated in carbon fiber bodywork, and has fully adjustable Ohlins shocks, Brembo four-pot calipers, and adjustable handlebars, footrests and Magura brake levers. Oh, and the instruments come directly from MotoGP — with digital readouts, lap timer and a tachometer with graphic rev display. Plan for 2008
BMW Motorrad delivered 82,779 motorcycles from January through September, up 4.3 percent from worldwide sales of 79,333 units during the same nine-month period in 2006.
BMW Motorrad has outlined three areas to be cornerstones for the company's continued growth in sales and profits: 1) a continuation of BMW's offensive in product development; 2) the development of a two-brand strategy as it pertains to the company's Husqvarna acquisition; and 3) an increase in profitability through the development of a broader global supplier system.
"Our goal is to sell more motorcycles to customers this year than last year," BMW Motorrad Director Herbert Diess said. "It's a big endeavor since breaking the barrier of 100,000 units sold in 2006. But we were well under way at the end of August, with the sale of 75,000 units accounting for 5 percent more motorcycle sales during the first eight months of this year than during the same eight-month period last year."
Diess made his comments prior to a reassignment within the company. As part of a "strategic realignment," the BMW Group created two new divisions in October. The first of the new divisions, Corporate and Brand Development, will be headed by former director of corporate planning, Dr. Friedrich Eichiner, and will be home to BMW Motorrad, Financial Services, Softlab, and any other new business units that are created. Diess now heads up the second new division, Purchasing and Supplier Network, primarily be responsible for lowering material costs.
Product Offensive
How will BMW Motorrad further its market share in the future? "Our goals are no doubt large, particularly considering the sales climate for motorcycles in Europe and North America," says Diess. "The model offensive we began in 2004 will continue. We plan to continue the product offensive we started in 2004 because we realize that it is the new product that will attract the new customers."
Husqvarna
Diess says the purchase of Husqvarna will allow the company to approach younger buyers and off-road and supermoto enthusiasts more quickly than it could have with the BMW brand. He also says Husqvarna's established worldwide sales network is another strong point for growth.
"If we want long-term gains, we have to diversify. We're confident Husqvarna has the potential to become a leading off-road brand. And, with this second brand, we now can grow in a segment that we previously were not in."
Profitability Through Purchasing
Since 2000, the Japanese Yen has lost value while the Euro has gained value. Diess says this exchange allows Japanese manufacturers to more easily optimize the value of their vehicles.
"What are we doing to combat that?" asks Diess. "First, we're improving the productivity of our suppliers and our plant in Berlin; second, we're looking for suppliers from around the world from which to purchase our parts and materials; and third, we are capitalizing on the technology and quality that differentiate the BMW brand from all of the others."
MotoGP
Peter Müller, head of research, development and production for BMW Motorrad, says the brand will enter World Super Bike competition in 2009 with a factory team.
BMW says further details — including motorcycle concept and team structure — have yet to be made available.
BMW Unveils 2008 Motorcycle Lineup
Milan, ITA - BMW unveiled its 2008 Motorrad GS line during a press conference Nov. 6 at the EICMA show in Milan, Italy.
The lineup features three new models, the F 800 GS and the upgraded R 1200 GS and GS Adventure. All models will be on display at IMS across the United States this winter, and the company says it expects first shipments to arrive in dealerships next spring. The new lineup includes:
F 800 GS: The dual purpose F 800 GS features an 85hp parallel twin engine, lightweight steel trellis frame and double-sided swingarm, along with a chain drive and longer front and rear suspension travel.
R 1200 GS: New features on this bike include an aluminum handlebar that can be mounted in two positions, and for the first time, BMW Motorrad is offering an off-road version of its Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) technology. Optional Enduro ESA is designed to meet the unique needs of adventure touring. Three damper settings — Sport, Normal and Comfort — give the rider the option of customizing both front and rear suspensions to his or her specifications. The system also features an off-road mode.
2008 R 1200 GS Adventure: In addition to new design elements, including two-part, two-color hand protectors, the R 1200 GS Adventure also features added horsepower, a taller windshield, adjustable seat, extra wide foot pegs and optional ABS. BMW also added an 8.7-gallon fuel tank, allowing riders to cover more area, and the bike is available with an optional Enduro ESA.
The lineup features three new models, the F 800 GS and the upgraded R 1200 GS and GS Adventure. All models will be on display at IMS across the United States this winter, and the company says it expects first shipments to arrive in dealerships next spring. The new lineup includes:
F 800 GS: The dual purpose F 800 GS features an 85hp parallel twin engine, lightweight steel trellis frame and double-sided swingarm, along with a chain drive and longer front and rear suspension travel.
R 1200 GS: New features on this bike include an aluminum handlebar that can be mounted in two positions, and for the first time, BMW Motorrad is offering an off-road version of its Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) technology. Optional Enduro ESA is designed to meet the unique needs of adventure touring. Three damper settings — Sport, Normal and Comfort — give the rider the option of customizing both front and rear suspensions to his or her specifications. The system also features an off-road mode.
2008 R 1200 GS Adventure: In addition to new design elements, including two-part, two-color hand protectors, the R 1200 GS Adventure also features added horsepower, a taller windshield, adjustable seat, extra wide foot pegs and optional ABS. BMW also added an 8.7-gallon fuel tank, allowing riders to cover more area, and the bike is available with an optional Enduro ESA.
13 November 2007An 'unstoppable' force at EICMAAll eyes were on BMW...
All eyes were on BMW Motorrad at the Milan EICMA international motorcycle exhibition in Italy this week, as the company unveiled a staggering five new models to a packed audience of journalists and trade guests.
This year's biggest two-wheel show was the first chance to see the latest evidence of the company's continued commitment to developing its leadership in the adventure sport and enduro segments.
After a year of development in some of the toughest world championship off-road races imaginable, the customer version of the 450cc sports enduro prototype was finally unveiled. Known as the G 450 X, the new, no-compromise dirt bike is targeted at competition enduro riders, as well as the sports off-road market.
A welcome surprise for many visitors to the show is the new F 800 GS, which neatly fills the gap between the single-cylinder G 650 Xchallenge and Xcountry models, and the big GS Boxer twins. Boasting 85 hp, long suspension travel and excellent fuel economy and comfort levels, expect the F 800 GS to attract a whole new generation of future globetrotters to BMW.
Equally well received at EICMA was the all-new F 650 GS. Don't be fooled by the familiar model designation though, because the new version of the bike that first appeared in the early 1990s is now powered by the same 798cc parallel-twin engine as the new F 800 GS.
It's hard to believe that it's three years since the R 1200 GS was first presented, signalling the start of a 'new generation' of BMW motorcycles that would sell well in excess of 100,000 in its first years of production. At EICMA, journalists were treated to updated and improved versions of both the best selling R 1200 GS and its 'Adventure' variant. Changes to the all-terrain big boxer machines include increased power and a unique new enduro Electronic Suspension Adjustment system option.
Before all the new models were unveiled with the help of five-times motocross world champion Joel Smets, BMW Motorrad's Executive Vice President, Development and Model Lines, Peter Mueller, spoke of another year of anticipated record sales, the continued expansion into new market segments and promised increased participation in future off-road motorsport and road racing events across the globe.
Visitors to the BMW Motorrad stand at the Fiere Milano were also treated to a visual display of the new 'Unstoppable' campaign, devised by international agency 180 Amsterdam. With strong messages of success on road, track and trail, as well as the five new models making their world premier, 2008 is looking like it could well be the Year of the Enduro.
This year's biggest two-wheel show was the first chance to see the latest evidence of the company's continued commitment to developing its leadership in the adventure sport and enduro segments.
After a year of development in some of the toughest world championship off-road races imaginable, the customer version of the 450cc sports enduro prototype was finally unveiled. Known as the G 450 X, the new, no-compromise dirt bike is targeted at competition enduro riders, as well as the sports off-road market.
A welcome surprise for many visitors to the show is the new F 800 GS, which neatly fills the gap between the single-cylinder G 650 Xchallenge and Xcountry models, and the big GS Boxer twins. Boasting 85 hp, long suspension travel and excellent fuel economy and comfort levels, expect the F 800 GS to attract a whole new generation of future globetrotters to BMW.
Equally well received at EICMA was the all-new F 650 GS. Don't be fooled by the familiar model designation though, because the new version of the bike that first appeared in the early 1990s is now powered by the same 798cc parallel-twin engine as the new F 800 GS.
It's hard to believe that it's three years since the R 1200 GS was first presented, signalling the start of a 'new generation' of BMW motorcycles that would sell well in excess of 100,000 in its first years of production. At EICMA, journalists were treated to updated and improved versions of both the best selling R 1200 GS and its 'Adventure' variant. Changes to the all-terrain big boxer machines include increased power and a unique new enduro Electronic Suspension Adjustment system option.
Before all the new models were unveiled with the help of five-times motocross world champion Joel Smets, BMW Motorrad's Executive Vice President, Development and Model Lines, Peter Mueller, spoke of another year of anticipated record sales, the continued expansion into new market segments and promised increased participation in future off-road motorsport and road racing events across the globe.
Visitors to the BMW Motorrad stand at the Fiere Milano were also treated to a visual display of the new 'Unstoppable' campaign, devised by international agency 180 Amsterdam. With strong messages of success on road, track and trail, as well as the five new models making their world premier, 2008 is looking like it could well be the Year of the Enduro.
BMW F 800 GS Announced
The New BMW F 800 GS!
Contents:
1.
Concept and Background
2.
Vehicle Characteristics and Technology
3.
Range of Equipment
4.
Colors
5.
Engine Output and Torque
6.
Technical Data
1. Concept and Background
The heavily rumored and long-awaited F 800 GS is a new Adventure Touring or Enduro model in the BMW Motorrad lineup. BMW is presenting the motorcycle as "a worthy successor to the totally successful F 650 GS with its single-cylinder engine". In typical BMW fashion, the bike is completely ready to go and can be outfitted with a huge number of accessories, which are described below.
The new bike is claimed to be off-road capable, with its sturdy appearance reminiscent of the very popular BMW R 1200 GS and its features like long spring travel, which should indicate what it can do off-road. The signals the bike gives off are clear yet diverse: fun to ride on the street and stamina on journeys even when the destination can only be reached by gravel tracks.
And guess what? It has a chain drive!
BMW claims a high level of stability combined with playful handling are features for the new F 800 GS, along with a strong chassis and impressive engine performance for maximum riding enjoyment.
The inline two-cylinder engine comes from the well-known F 800 model series, but beyond this, the F 800 GS has been completely redesigned. A completely new frame and new wheel suspension with new spring-shock absorber elements are used, for example, which, BMW claims, "will surpass the expectations of even the most demanding Enduro riders."
The belt drive and single-strut swing arm of the F 800, which are ideal for pure on-road use, have been replaced by a light chain drive, which, in combination with a very stable, attractive aluminum profile double-strut swing arm offers particular advantages in off-road riding in particular. The new GS is thus not only in its element on roads – it can also always find a way off-road too.
BMW said that the bike "thus combines the two worlds in a way that has never before been achieved in this class and offers the maximum possible freedom in terms of its areas of use." They have positioned the dynamic Adventure-Tourer at an attractive price, and our guess is that it will be an extremely popular seller.
2. Vehicle Characteristics and Technology
The abbreviation “GS” in the world of BMW is not an empty promise. This will probably be demonstrated in the future by the F 800 GS too, in continuation of a long tradition of rugged on- and off-road motorcycles.
The new model offers the typical qualities of an Adventure-Tourer -- on- and off-road performance and capabilities. While large-capacity Enduros sometimes reach their limits because of their weight and overall design, the new F 800 GS is different, according to BMW.
The overall package combines balanced power and weight, excellent ground clearance, long spring travel, precise wheel guidance and sophisticated ergonomics, giving excellent off-road riding and excellent long-distance performance.
The chassis combines all the ingredients that a real Enduro needs: a sturdy steel tube frame that allows a steering lock of 42 degrees, a rigid upside-down fork with 230 mm spring travel, a sturdy aluminum double-strut swing arm with a path-dependent cushioned spring strut and 215 mm spring travel and solid wire-spoked wheels.
A 21-inch front wheel in the classic Enduro dimensions of 90/90-21 should provide running stability in slow off-road riding, while the rear wheel's dimensions of 150/70-17 ensures that the engine power is always transferred securely to the track.
The engine is the parallel twin from the F 800 S modified for the new usage, with its cylinders now only inclined 8.3 degrees forward. The strong, liquid-cooled four-valve two-cylinder is particularly convincing because of its spontaneous response, its impressive torque and its low fuel consumption.
Nominally, the engine provides 85 HP at 7,500 RPM and at 5,750 RPM it sends 61 pounds-feet of torque to the sliding bearing based crankshaft.
Thanks to the regulated three-way catalytic converter and secondary air system, the twin also releases its power in a way that is environmentally friendly.
And the engine is balanced by BMW's system that is unique in standard motorcycle design: an additional swivel con-rod balances the first and second level mass forces and ensures that the two-cylinder functions with the minimum of vibrations.
The low dry weight of 178 kg makes a major contribution to the dynamic riding properties. When filled with fuel and ready to ride, the F 800 GS weighs in at just 207 kg (456 lbs.).
The F 800 GS is claimed to offer an excellent level of seat comfort for both rider and passenger, along with a high standard of safety features. If required, it can be fitted ex factory with two-channel ABS that can be switched off. In addition, the extensive range of BMW accessories meets the further individual wishes of BMW's demanding customers.
Overview of the main features of the new F 800 GS:
*
F 800 GS as mid-class adventure-tourer with excellent off-road properties and long-distance capabilities.
*
Liquid-cooled parallel twin with 798 cc capacity, four-valve technology and unique mass balance.
*
Rev-proof DOHC valve drive via cam followers.
*
Manifold injection with electronic engine management BMS-KP, lambda probe and regulated three-way catalytic converter plus secondary air system.
*
Closely stepped six-speed transmission for excellent riding performance.
*
Dirt-resistant secondary drive via O-ring chain.
*
Torsion-resistant tubular steel frame with unusual gusset plate reinforcement of steering head.
*
Easy handling and extremely tight turning circle.
*
Stable telescopic fork, USD fork with upright tube diameter 45 mm.
*
Double-strut swing arm in die-cast aluminum.
*
Spring strut with adjustable spring pre-tension and adjustable rebound damping; WAD function (path-dependent damping as in the R 1200 GS).
*
Long spring travel for comfort and off-road suitability.
*
Excellent seat comfort for rider and passenger.
*
Tank underneath seat, for best center of gravity, with easily accessible fill opening.
*
Powerful braking system, with ABS if required.
*
Air filter and battery positioned behind steering head for easy maintenance.
*
Wide range of accessories for off-road and touring use.
The most important details at a glance:
*
BMW F 800 GS
*
85 HP
*
Valve timing like F 800 S
*
Wide radiator
*
Off-road-look fairing
*
High windscreen
*
USD telescopic fork
*
WAD spring strut
*
Spoked wheels
*
21-in front wheel
*
Double-disc brake, floating, front
*
Aluminum handlebar
*
880/850 mm seat height
*
Ready-to-ride weight 207 kg
BMW says salon's sign must go
When Susie Beam opened Beamer Salon Etc. in February, she decided to play off the BMW logo by using a round logo much like that of the German car company.
Only, Beam's logo has scissors running through it, red in place of blue and the letters 'BSE' where the 'BMW' would normally be.
BMW of America doesn't think that's so catchy.
In August, Beam received a letter from the auto manufacturer, asking her to 'cease this and any other unauthorized use of the BMW trademarks.'
The company's attorney said in a subsequent letter that the hair salon's use of the logo could 'dilute or otherwise impair the trademark function of BMW's marks.'
'I know it looks something like (their) logo,' Beam said. 'To me, it was a compliment. To me, it means excellence.'
But after trading letters between attorneys, Beam has decided she'd rather design a new logo than face BMW in court.
The company has asked Beam to remove the logo from her sign and all other advertising and promotional materials by Monday.
'I'm going to take it down,' she said. 'I don't have the money to fight them.'
In addition to having the logo put on the sign on the front of the salon at 525 Southland Drive, Beam also used the logo on business cards, banners and an advertisement on shopping carts at the Beaumont Centre Kroger. Those applications add up to about $5,000 in costs, she said.
'They don't realize how much that's going to cost me,' Beam said. 'This is my first year and I'm struggling. This is taking me back a notch or two.'
Beam said her son's nickname is 'Beamer,' and her younger daughter is 'Baby Beamer.' The salon is named after them.
'Beemer' is a term commonly used to refer to BMW automobiles, although enthusiasts insist it should be applied only to BMW motorcycles.
BMW hasn't taken issue with the salon's name.
Beam already has a new logo in mind, and she said she likes it even better than the previous one.
This time, she's going with a diamond shape to avoid any conflict with BMW. 'They've got dibs on circles,' she said.
Only, Beam's logo has scissors running through it, red in place of blue and the letters 'BSE' where the 'BMW' would normally be.
BMW of America doesn't think that's so catchy.
In August, Beam received a letter from the auto manufacturer, asking her to 'cease this and any other unauthorized use of the BMW trademarks.'
The company's attorney said in a subsequent letter that the hair salon's use of the logo could 'dilute or otherwise impair the trademark function of BMW's marks.'
'I know it looks something like (their) logo,' Beam said. 'To me, it was a compliment. To me, it means excellence.'
But after trading letters between attorneys, Beam has decided she'd rather design a new logo than face BMW in court.
The company has asked Beam to remove the logo from her sign and all other advertising and promotional materials by Monday.
'I'm going to take it down,' she said. 'I don't have the money to fight them.'
In addition to having the logo put on the sign on the front of the salon at 525 Southland Drive, Beam also used the logo on business cards, banners and an advertisement on shopping carts at the Beaumont Centre Kroger. Those applications add up to about $5,000 in costs, she said.
'They don't realize how much that's going to cost me,' Beam said. 'This is my first year and I'm struggling. This is taking me back a notch or two.'
Beam said her son's nickname is 'Beamer,' and her younger daughter is 'Baby Beamer.' The salon is named after them.
'Beemer' is a term commonly used to refer to BMW automobiles, although enthusiasts insist it should be applied only to BMW motorcycles.
BMW hasn't taken issue with the salon's name.
Beam already has a new logo in mind, and she said she likes it even better than the previous one.
This time, she's going with a diamond shape to avoid any conflict with BMW. 'They've got dibs on circles,' she said.
BMW Celebrates Year One Of The 1 SeriesBMW Celebrates Year One Of The 1 Series
Drivers who purchase a 2008 BMW 1 Series will be reminded that they are one of the few lucky drivers of the next BMW icon every time they start or stop their cars. Each 2008 BMW 1 Series, both coupe and convertible models, will be equipped with a specially engraved Start/Stop button with the inscription: “Year One of the 1”. The engraved Start/Stop button is one of several notable initiatives to be announced celebrating the launch of the new BMW 1 Series in America next spring. Appearing exclusively in the 2008 calendar year 1 Series models coming to the U.S., the “Year One of the 1” button was created by the same team of BMW designers who designed the 1 Series.
“Forty years ago, BMW introduced a car, the legendary 2002, that changed the American automotive landscape. That car was a pivotal car in the history of BMW and is still revered by aficionados today. We believe the 1 Series will be as important to the history of BMW in America,” said Jack Pitney, Vice President, Marketing, BMW of North America. “The ‘Year One of the 1’ Start/Stop button is a way to directly engage our customers with a simple message of celebration each time they get behind the wheel of their new 1 Series,” continued Pitney. “Our ‘Year One of the 1’ activities will incorporate several elements that will celebrate this historic launch. The specially engraved Start/Stop button is just one of the many things we will announce as we approach the launch next year.”
The new 1 Series, which draws inspiration from the legendary BMW 2002 of 1968 with a focus on pure performance, will be available as a Coupe and Convertible. In addition to premium design, the 1 Series features rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful 6 cylinder engines and seating for four.
“Forty years ago, BMW introduced a car, the legendary 2002, that changed the American automotive landscape. That car was a pivotal car in the history of BMW and is still revered by aficionados today. We believe the 1 Series will be as important to the history of BMW in America,” said Jack Pitney, Vice President, Marketing, BMW of North America. “The ‘Year One of the 1’ Start/Stop button is a way to directly engage our customers with a simple message of celebration each time they get behind the wheel of their new 1 Series,” continued Pitney. “Our ‘Year One of the 1’ activities will incorporate several elements that will celebrate this historic launch. The specially engraved Start/Stop button is just one of the many things we will announce as we approach the launch next year.”
The new 1 Series, which draws inspiration from the legendary BMW 2002 of 1968 with a focus on pure performance, will be available as a Coupe and Convertible. In addition to premium design, the 1 Series features rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful 6 cylinder engines and seating for four.
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