BMW R1200 CL LUXURY CRUISER

The new bodywork and fairing of the R1200 CL transforms cruising into touring, without sacrificing looks or style. The elegant tourer fairing attached to the handlebars provides effective wind deflection and rider comfort. Another advantage of the design is that the upper edge of the screen is not in the line of vision. This is a particular advantage when riding in the rain or if the windscreen becomes dirty on long journeys. (An even shorter screen is available as an optional extra), the rider can control the degree of wind deflection and protection by opening additional air deflectors if the weather worsens.

Aerodynamics – as with all current BMW models – play an important role in the comfort and stability of the CL. For example, a particularly imaginative feature of the windscreen is the upper edge cutaway that is contoured like a wave to deflect airflow around the rider. Separate bodywork panels on either sode of the machine are integrated aerodynamically with windscreen and tank, not only deflecting the airflow but increasing downforce to enhance stability.

Four headlights are integrated into the fairing – two for low beams and two for high beams – which gives the R1200 CL an unmistakable striking face and ensures excellent illumination of the road ahead.

Suspension of belief
Typical of the conventional cruiser are the raked-out, front wheel forks. To retain this essential cruiser element, BMW’s unique Telelever front suspension system has been completely reworked. A consequence is that the fork struts are now further apart in order to accommodate the more stable 150mm-wide front tyres. Also new are the fork sliders (EVO brake adapted), slider bridge, fork bridge and full floating axle.
The rear wheel guide features a new spring strut with a progressive damping system to ensure sublime on-road comfort. In conjunction, the rear suspension’s overall spring travel has increased by 20mm (compared to the R1200C) and is now 120mm. Pre-loaded adjustement can easily be made by hand.
A body with soul
The R1200 CL is an extremely sturdy motorcycle. The rear wheel, swinging arm and axle housing have been reinforced and modified to accept the larger rear brake. I addition, a brand new, reinforced rear frame has been designed to take the footboards, case supports, luggage rack, modified side supports and new seats.
Generous footboards for the rider contribute to one of the most relaxed riding positions of any cruiser. Passenger footrests offer excellent support so that touring becomes a fatigue-free experience.
Seats are separate for passenger and rider. The rider’s wide, comfortable saddle comes with integrated hip support and – thanks to the versatility of extra-large footboards and a ride height of 74.5cm (29.3ins) – is one of the most comfortable of any cruiser currently available. The passenger’s seat has also been designed to provide a comparable level of comfort but is slightly higher to afford a better view over the rider’s shoulder.

Integrated colour-matched luggage cases and top cases are fitted as standard and include a luggage bridge made of cast aluminium that incorporates pillion grab handles. The cases are watertight and feature a surround closing system.

Despite being stylish, and in keeping with the cruiser concept, the newly designed cast aluminium wheels are also small – a 16inch front and 15inch rear – but allow the use of extra large tyres: 150/80 and 170/80 respectively. The R1200 CL is the first BMW cruiser available with EVO front wheel braking as standard and optional integral ABS – the world’s most advanced brake technology for motorcycles.

Power Punch
On the open road, the low-stressed, low revving engine gives effortless power. Cruising has never been so easy.
The R1200CL is equipped with the same engine that has already been proven in the R1200 C. The 1170cc, boxer engine is tuned to produce more torque for use at slow speed rather than for maximum power. Finished Expansively in high quality chrome, the big twin delivers 61 bhp at 5,000rpm, but equally important is that it produces 70ib ft of torque at just 3,00rpm. The Motronic engine management system optimises torque at low engine speeds. This means that the maximum possible torque is produced, allowing superlative throttle control and excellent response when negotiating city traffic.
The engine’s copious torque is fed to the rear wheel through a new six speed gearbox, heel-toe gear change and BMW’s proven drive shaft. Sixth gear has been configured as an overdrive and together with the 17.5 litre fuel tank should prove a touring range of between 150 and 200 miles. The R1200 CL is also equipped with a closed-loop, three-way catalytic converter.

Special equipment
This includes BMW Integral ABS, cruise control, heated grips, anti-theft alarm and immobiliser system, seat heating, soft-touch seats, chrome package and CD player

BMW dealers will also offer a wide range of accessories, including passenger backrest and footboards, cylinder protection hoops, inner bags for panniers, cup holders and an on-board communication system