BMW’s K series of motorcycles all use four-cylinder engines. The K series was introduced in 1983, when inline four-cylinder engines marked the peak of motorcycle performance. Since then, BMW Motorrad has continually innovated its four-cylinder engines. The 2010 K series is primarily a street bike series, with models for luxury touring (K1200LT), high performance touring (K1300GT), a naked roadster (K1300R), and a high performance superbike (K1300S).
The foundation of all BMW K series motorcycles is an inline four-cylinder engine. This engine configuration has been a performance leader since its introduction in 1983. The two versions of this engine used in 2010 were a 1,171cc engine, producing 116 horsepower with 88.5 ft. lbs. of torque, and a larger 1,293cc engine, generating up to 173 horsepower and 103 ft. lbs. of torque. The power of the inline four-cylinder is transferred to the wheels via a shaft drive on all K series bikes.
If you want to travel in style on a long road trip, then the K1200LT is the model for you. Exterior styling on the 2010 BMW K1200LT looks luxurious for both rider and passenger. Designed with mile-eating trips in mind, the K1200LT is more than capable of delivering maximum comfort for your road trips. With one of the most comfortable stock seats of any motorcycle, and a natUral riding position, the K1200LT intends to make long rides as cozy as possible. No need to worry about being able to pass that slow semi on the highway, as the 1,171cc engine supplies solid power, while the cast aluminum bridge frame ensures stability at speed. From a heated seat, to chrome retrofit kits, and onboard navigation systems, a wide range of luxury options are available to fit any rider's specific needs.
Maybe you like touring bikes, but want one with more serious power. BMW designed the K1300GT just for you. BMW Motorrad’s 1,293cc inline four-cylinder endows the GT with 158 horsepower and 99.6 ft. lbs. of torque. This is 42 more horsepower, and 11 ft. lbs. greater torque than the LT offers. BMW claims that 85% of maximum torque is available at 3,500 rpm. This bike was not intended to set new speed records, but rather to provide a touring rider with enough muscle to accomplish those long road trips at whatever pace they want. Also equipped with high and wide handlebars to ensure cornering with stability, the K1300GT is just the right combination of speed, handling, comfort, and style to make getting there more than half the fun of being there.
BMW’s K1300 S maintains its reputation as a superbike with style. With BMW’s 1,293cc inline four-cylinder tuned to produce 173 horsepower and 103 ft. lbs. of torque, the K1300S competes with the fastest superbikes on the planet. Using BMW’s proprietary Duolever and Paralever suspension systems, and cast aluminum bridge frame, the K1300S handles the corners smoothly. What the K1300S offers that other superbikes might not are high tech features. The K1300S can be equipped with traction control, heated grips, anti-lock brakes, electronic suspension adjustment, and more. All this adds makes the K1300S a superbike that can be highly customized to provide exactly the ride you are looking for.
The 2010 BMW K1300R is a naked roadster that uses the same engine as the K1300S. While the inline four-cylinder engine is the same, the R makes a lot of stylistic and functional adjustments appropriate for a naked roadster. Where the S looks like a sleek and smooth superbike, the R looks raw and aggressive. The K1300R is a true naked roadster, with performance and features expected from BMW. Unfortunately the model has never been offered for sale in the United States.
The BMW K series established its reputation over two decades for performance and style. The 2010 models are no exception, and offer riders everything from pure luxury touring, to superbike performance.