Nick Heidfeld Tests BMW HP2 Megamoto

Munich 05/07/2008; Just before making his spectacular appearance in his Formula 1 vehicle on the site of the BMW works in Munich, Nick Heidfeld found the time to take a closer look at the extra special high-performance two-wheeler. The exclusive BMW HP2 Megamoto is an uncompromising, lightweight motorcycle, with a design that is reduced to the absolute essentials, and which is capable of producing the greatest motorcycling enjoyment on the road.

Heidfeld: 'For me, the Megamoto is a fascinating bike. A really fantastic motorcycle. Its light weight and low centre of gravity promise top level handling. And it even manages to look special at the same time. As soon as I get the chance, I really want to subject this bike to more intensive testing.

BMW Motorrad will now be giving Heidfeld the use of a HP2 Megamoto to take on trips through his adopted homeland of Switzerland, to allow him to make good on his wishes.

The flat-twin engine guarantees high-class riding enjoyment, with 113 hp / 83 kW at 7,500 rpm coupled with the low weight of 199kg - on the road. The ergonomic seat posture, oriented towards the front wheel, the seat height of 890mm and optional ABS make this extroverted racing boxer suitable for use in everyday riding situations. The upside-down forks are responsible for the precise and sturdy front-wheel suspension, while the adjustable Öhlins strut at the rear provides a spring distance of 180mm for a full-on road riding position.

The purist design coupled with elegant details such as the tank and lamp panelling made of the motorsport material, carbon, as well as the twin Akrapovic exhaust system, underline the exclusive sporting spirit of this BMW motorcycle.

THRILL SEEKERS REJOICE! BMW HP2 SPORT IS HERE.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - May 9, 2008... Thrill seekers rejoice! The BMW HP2 Sport has arrived at U.S. BMW Motorrad retailers. The same high-performance sport bike that Richard Cooper and Brian Parriott rode to fifth and sixth place finishes in last month's Daytona 200 is now available in limited supplies for serious motorcycle enthusiasts. The high-performance (HP) two (2)-cylinder Boxer -- customized to meet the requirements of the ambitious sport rider -- has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $25,375 (excluding taxes, license, options, and handling charge).

The sportiest, most powerful and lightest Boxer ever manufactured, the HP2 Sport features numerous exclusive details, previously restricted to racing, that were never before seen in series production vehicles. Technology such as the self-supporting and aerodynamically optimized fairings made completely of carbon fiber, the quick shifter, a dashboard similar to that used in the MotoGP, the forged aluminum wheels and brakes with radially bolted calipers make the HP2 unmistakably athletic on both country roads or the racing circuit.

The most striking difference between the BMW HP2 Sport from the earlier endurance racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder heads: each of the double overhead camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger than those on the BMW R 1200 S. Further modifications, such as the flow-optimized intake and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod, help the engine to achieve the necessary higher output compared to the basic engine. A new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first time, keeping the lower area of the motorcycle extremely slim for greater freedom of movement for a "hanging off" riding position. Although designed for racing prowess, the BMW HP2 Sport does not forego the safety benefits of ABS. A sophisticated anti-blocking system, specially adapted to the HP2 Sport, is available as an option and is configured so that it can be deactivated for the racetrack.

Following the BMW Motorrad Motorsport design, the HP2 Sport features white lacquering on the windshield, rear, mudguard and side cover. The engine spoiler carries the two-tone "HP2" lettering; and the lattice frame and wheels are lacquered in the BMW Motorrad color of Motorsport Blue.

For enthusiasts who delight in racing technology, the HP2 is a dream come true! Stop by your nearest BMW Motorrad retailer and order one today!