2009 BMW K 1300 S, K 1300 R And K 1300 GT Announced

Good news from across the deep puddle friends. BMW Motorrad has used this year's INTERMOT in Cologne (the 6th International Motorcycle and Scooter Fair) to announce the latest additions to the BMW K Series range, the new K 1300 S, K 1300 R and K 1300 GT.

Now you might have spent the last 25 years looking for the inner man, or siring a few pups, or perhaps jumping the fence to help a neighbour with her 'exotic domestic duties' (and other worthy pursuits), but BMW has spent it refining its venerable K Series. So it's grown up a bit. And like you and I, each in the new range is a meaner and uglier piece of kit. In fact, the new K 1300 S is the most powerful and quickest BMW the world has ever seen. (So don't poke it with a stick friends, unless you're up to the challenge.)

You'll have time to consider your options, the new K Series range won't be here until late in the first quarter next year and actual specs and pricing for the Australian market is yet to be confirmed.

But here's an overview of each, just to whet the appetite (another community service from 'the Dirk').

K 1300 S

The new K 1300 S, the scorcher of the trio, comes with an engine output of 129 kW (175 hp) at 9,250 rpm, and maximum torque of 140 Newton-metres (103 lb-ft) at 8,250 rpm. (Farmers have ploughed paddocks with less torque.)

With an overall weight of 254kg (including fuel), 'duolever' front suspension, firmer spring/damper set-up, a low centre of gravity, and electronically adjustable second-generation ESA II suspension, the 1300 S promises dynamic sports riding performance. To help keep body and soul united, it also features integral ABS (partially integrated) as standard in case you have to call on the stoppers in a hurry.

With optional 'HP Gearshift Assistance' for shifting up without the interruption of power and optional ASC (Auto Stability Control) traction control, it also promises to be one of the 'smartest' high performance sports bikes on offer.

Available in Light Grey Metallic or Lava Orange Metallic with a multi-colour finish in Granite Grey/Light Grey Metallic, and frame and suspension components finished in Asphalt Metallic, it'll look the part in the pack.

K 1300 R

The new BMW K 1300 R is for those who prefer the stripped down, no-nonsense naked-bike look. In keeping with the new K Series, the new K 1300 R is the most powerful naked bike BMW has ever built with maximum output of 127 kW (173 hp) at 9,250 rpm, maximum torque of 140 Newton-metres (103 lb-ft) at 8,250 rpm.

Weighing in at 243kg (also with a full tank), and sharing most of the technical features of the K 1300 S, the K 1300 R has ample mumbo to take the argument squarely to the other big-bore 'nakeds' in the segment.

K 1300 GT

The focus for the new K 1300 GT, the least powerful of the trio, is on riding dynamics, comfort and grand touring qualities thanks to a refined drive-train, aerodynamic fairing and a wide range of special features and equipment.

While engine output is less than its siblings at 118 kW (160 hp) at 9,000 rpm, peak torque is only marginally down at 135 Newton metres (99 lb-ft) and arrives at a slightly lower engine speed of 8,000 rpm.

The K 1300 GT, the style-leader of the new K Series, can be had in a range of new colours - Red Apple Metallic with dark contrast trim, Royal Blue Metallic with White Aluminium contrast and Magnesium Beige Metallic highlighted with Dark Slate Metallic.

No information on pricing at the moment, but with international currencies doing a high dive into the long-drop dunny, don't hold your breath waiting for the BMW number crunchers to nail up the sticker price for the new K Series. (Most pricing calculations at the moment involve a dart-board, a pint of Guinness and a fist-full of darts.)

Ride free friends, stay clear of merchant bankers. The Dirk.