The BMW K 1300 R, the doctrine of pure motorcycling

When the BMW K 1200 R was launched back in 2006 it was the world's most powerful naked-motorcycle. Suzuki's B-King has since taken that crown, but that hasn't stopped BMW from revising its R-series motorcycles and adding more cubes, more horses and more torque.

But whereas the BMW K 1200 R pumped out its maximum power at 10,250 rpm, the BMW K 1300 R does it at 9,250 rpm – and with 7 kW more than its predecessor, too.

BMW Thailand is offering this 'Power Roadster' – the BMW K 1300 R. which is apart from missing 2kW over its cousin the BMW K 1300 S, the main drive-train difference with the K 1300 R is shorter final gearing – 2.91 versus 2.82. That means more lively acceleration, amplified by the K 1300 R's 11 kg lighter weight – 217kg versus 228kg.

BMW describes the K 1300 R themselves as “Absolute destruction. Aggressive. Adrenaline pure. Even when standing still. And even more so as soon as it gets going. What happens at this moment is among the special moments in the life of a biker: a rocket-like start.”

BMW fitted options are extensive traction pack of ABS, ASC and RDC; switchable ABS; ESA II; quick-shift; alarm; luggage grid; comfort passenger seat; and a no-cost 30mm low-seat option (Asian seat hight).

As fitted to the BMW K 1300 S as well, the ESA II system takes suspension adjustability to new levels. At the press of a switch on the left bar, the rider can adjust both the spring base and spring rate as well as the damping at the rear, and the rebound damping at the front. There are a total of nine suspension variants, with spring changes made at standstill, but damping changes able to be made on the move.