[jmdonald]

Nice.

This is a really nice bike. There are a few miss hits but the changes make up for them. At less than 500lbs. it will make a good commuter. Well done BMW.

 

[jmdonald]

BMW explains from BMW Motorrad International

There's frequent criticism here about overweight, oversized ST bikes. This should answer that.

I'm sure its true, but saying that having both pistons rising and falling together reduces vibration seems counterintuitive. Wouldn't having more weight at each end if the stroke be more unbalanced and thus create more vibes? If anyone can explain that is appreciate it.

Unavoidable on two cylinder engines, the first and second order inertial forces are neutralised by a balancing mechanism that is unique in our times. Instead of the conventional solution involving so called balancing or counterweight shafts, the oscillating inertial forces are eliminated by a system of articulated joints, positioned centrally on the crankshaft, comprising a predefined arrangement of counterweight masses. Arranged opposite to the crank pin, an eccentric on the crankshaft carries a so called balance rod. This rod is joined to a balance pivot. The kinematics are such that the balance rod moves up and down counter to the movements of the two piston rods. The movements over the relatively long swing arm gives rise to a relatively linear swinging motion for the rod end. The distribution of mass over the rod end and swing arm is such that the inertial forces generated by the swinging motion counteract the inertial forces generated by the crankshaft (piston and rod section) at all positions. This virtually eliminates the first and second order inertial forces, and the engine runs with low vibration levels. One other major advantage of this elegant design is its low noise levels because there are no gears or chains with their characteristic drive sounds.

BMW Motorrad International

 

[jmdonald]

Options.

Not everyone would want the bags. It makes sense to add them as an option. The fit and finish come at a price. You get what you pay for. I want one too. I am adding this to my top 5.