BMW's big sports tourer has had a makeover for 2002. Like the R1150GS, R1150R and R1150RT, the R1150RS comes with a larger and more powerful engine featuring a catalytic converter and six-speed transmission.
The brakes have been upgraded to match the increase in performance. The R1150RS is equipped with BMW's new EVO brake on the front wheel - offering up to 20 per cent more braking power - while Integral ABS can be included as an option, in this case, the partly integrated version to reflect the sporting character of the machine. This means that the hand brake lever acts on both wheels while the foot brake lever only applies the rear brake.
There are new lighter and stronger cast aluminium wheels with five double spokes. The reduction of unsprung mass improves handling and riding comfort.
Maximum output is up from 90 bhp on the 2001 model to 95 bhp at 7250 rpm. Maximum torque has increased from 95 Nm to 100 Nm (74lb ft) at 5500 rpm, with more than 90 Nm or 66 lb ft available between 3000 and 6500 rpm.
The R1150RS now has a hydraulically operated clutch. As with the R1150RT, the new six-speed unit is geared for more comfortable touring with top serving as an overdrive.
The R1150RS features BMW's Telelever front-wheel system and the Paralever, which acts as a double-joint swinging arm on the rear wheel.
The new R1150RS also gets a bigger screen, which is eight centimetres higher and six centimetres wider. This increases the total area of the screen by about 30 per cent for better protection from wind and weather. A full fairing (previously only available as an option) is now standard on the R1150RS.
BMW will be launching a special edition R1150RS, which will include partly integrated ABS (sports) heated grips, pannier fixings and a luggage rack as standard equipment. Additional equipment can be specified, such as panniers, topcase, tank bag, cylinder protection hoops, chrome-plated cylinder protection covers and an anti-theft warning system.
