2004 Model Updates

F650
BMW has announced a number of mods to their F650 series, beginning with the dual ignition upgrade other models have recently been given. The auxiliary plug is on the right side of the engine and fires at the same time as the main plug.

The addition of a second plug comes with a new engine management system: BMS-C II (BMW Motor System). Together, BMW claims they reduce exhaust emissions, enhance rider comfort, engine response and reduce fuel consumption. Horsepower and torque remain the same. The mufflers have been modified internally to reduce emissions as well.

Styling improvements in the F650GS will give it a more striking appearance, even though its basic design remains unchanged. The front mudguard, now resembling that on the "big GS," along with a new air vent panel and logo plate, updated windshield and larger headlight give both models (GS and Dakar) a more distinctive look. This design change also creates a more direct relationship within the "GS family." It is also noted that the air vent panel and logo plate generate "underpressure" in the airflow and therefore dissipates warm air away from the oil tank. Improved windshields enhance airflow around the rider's helmet and provide better protection from wind and weather. For off-road riding, the windshield is completely removable. The GS Dakar windscreen (taller and darker) can be fitted to the GS as an option.

The luggage rack now allows a topcase to be fitted without a plate in-between, and has openings to fasten tie-downs. The original variable-size cases fit on the new models but the former topcase no longer fits.

A new headlight with larger lens and free-form reflector provides better illumination and the clear glass covers also lend a very modern flair. The instrument cluster has been updated with grey faces giving a more technical appearance with numbers that are easier to read.

The "reach" of the clutch has been modified (a critical point for many female riders); the narrowest position on the adjustable lever has been shortened to ensure good control even for the rider with small hands. Hazard warning flashers are available as an option. The switch will be located where the heated grips switch was previously with the heated grips now controlled from the right hand controls.

Now standard is an on-board power socket that allows the rider, among other things, to charge the battery without having to remove it from the bike. A rider can also now jumpstart the bike without removing major components using a new jump point (the positive pole is under the seat and the negative pole is on the gearbox cover).

Three new colors are being manufactured (which may or may not be imported to the US): Iceberg Silver metallic, Yellow non-metallic and Deep Black non-metallic, along with two seat colors (Black and Terracotta Orange). The F650GS Dakar comes exclusively in twin-tone Blue metallic/White Aluminum matte metallic.

The 2004 F650CS gets the engine updates (second spark plug, etc.) but otherwise only minor changes. The windshield support, luggage railing and luggage rack are no longer translucent but made of black-tinted plastic. A much requested accessory, a topcase, is now available for the Scarver.

K1200LT
The technical highlight of the Luxury Tourer's enhancements is an electrohydraulic center-stand with automatic push-up effect. Developed by BMW, this new feature enables the rider, even with a passenger and fully loaded, to automatically raise the motorcycle simply by pushing a button, without even getting off his seat. This is accomplished by an electric pump that builds up pressure in a hydraulic system and moves out the center-stand without any manual handling required.

Revisions to the K1200LT engine boosts output by 15 percent to 115 bhp, with maximum torque increased to 88 lb-ft. The timing, camshaft, throttle butterflies (diameter increased to 36mm) and air intake have been modified.

The gearbox now features high-rise teeth on all gears, giving the improved five-speed smoother operation, reducing noise and improving gear mesh.

Greater stability and comfort is provided by longer front wheel trail (.59" to 4.6"), reportedly to correct criticism of "slight unrest" of the front wheel when riding at low speeds. A new spring strut with travel-dependent damping (TDD) has been added to the rear suspension. Damping increases the farther the rear suspension compresses.

A re-design of the seat allows a somewhat shorter rider to reach the ground more comfortably. As a result, BMW states that even relatively small riders, such as 5' 6" tall, report the new seat giving them a stable position with feet on the ground and ensuring easier handling than before.

Retaining most of its body styling, the K1200LT has eliminated the tandem headlight choosing instead for two separate sections. A free-form low beam light with clear glass lens sits in the usual location with a new high beam assembly below. BMW claims light intensity is increased about 10 percent. Larger and extending further down than before, a new mudguard continues the lines of both the side fairing and the engine spoiler. The enhanced design is based on a twin-tone concept, with technical components being finished in magnesium-colored metallic paintwork.

New components (beyond what was on past K12LTs) are being chrome-plated such as: footrests and supports for rider and passenger, bumper strips surrounding front and rear, mirror housings, cover flaps on the windshield support, grab rail on the topcase, covers on the brake and clutch handles and controls, and the air vent and logo plate at the side.

The new color range (information not yet available as to US imports) has a Light Yellow metallic, Ocean Blue metallic and a Dark Graphite metallic. The seat may come in Black or "Greige" (a blend of Grey and Beige).

The instrument cluster has also been thoroughly updated with a flat-screen info unit providing a wide range of data for the rider. The high-resolution display monitors: mileage (overall) as well as two trip counters, coolant temperature, air temperature, gear currently in use, all functions on the on-board computer, radio information, fuel level and time.

Further features available (in Germany, and perhaps here) either as a factory or dealer installed option include: an anti-theft warning system, "central locking" and ground illumination combination; railing and brake light strip on the topcase; seat heating including backrest, high-rising windshield; CD changer; double power socket; height-adjustable, chrome-plated sideboards for the passenger; cupholder; communication system; preparation for BMW Motorcycle Navigator II GPS receiver. Central locking makes the process of securing the motorcycle much easier: Simply by pressing a button, the rider is able to lock the topcase, the side cases, and the storage compartment, while intentionally leaving the tank lock open. Lights are activated when the rider deactivates the anti-theft warning system and, as an option, when switching off the ignition to illuminate the ground around the motorcycle when parked, facilitating the process of getting on and off the machine.

Other 2004 Model Upgrades:
The following model changes for 2004 have been made since our last model review (see BMW Owners News, November 2003)

R1150R, Rockster and R1150GS Adventure
For 2004, these models now feature a steel flex clutch hose as well as a jump-start point on the starter support. The Roadster and Rockster will also come with a power socket as standard and the Roadster will have steel-clad brake hoses.

R1100S BoxerCup Replica
A new three-color paint, dual ignition and technical features even more similar to the racing machines are the new features. Further changes are white instrument faces, a high seat and mirrors carried over from the R1150GS which are easier to remove than the standard mirrors and therefore an advantage in track racing.

R1100S, R1150RS and R1150RT
Starting in the 2004 model year, the R1100S is also available with a higher seat (32.3") as special equipment at no extra cost and comes as standard with a power socket. The R1100S, R1150RS and R1150RT also feature a support point on the side starter holder for jump-starting the engine.

R1200C
Travel-dependent damping rear suspension is provided on all models. Mufflers have been modified internally (as first introduced on the R1200C Montauk) for better sound. And finally, a support point on the side starter holder for jump-starting the engine has been added.

Editor's note: All information contained in this article is based on German production and may or may not be available in the US.