150-160hp HP3-S ???

[leafman60]

Okay, all you hot rods out there. I've been reading about the expected new water-cooled boxer from BMW. Everybody feels that they can get more horsepower out of that configuration.

If that is true, it shouldnt be too far-fetched to see them get 150-160 ponies - or more. Since the HP2S has a pretty complete set of bodywork, hiding the radiator (s) shouldn't be too difficult with some design changes.

So, what are the thoughts here about a sure-nuff, balls-to-the wall, 160 hp sport bike to replace the current HP series ?

[ckcarr]

Lets see what they put out there first.

They could lose their audience (again), get mad, and stop production six months after introducing whatever new bike they decide on.

But, say it's a popular bike (relatively), what I have observed of BMW is they are very repetitive. That means:
a) Introduce the bike in 2-3 basic colors
b) After a year or two put out a "special edition" of the same bike with different paint.
c) Change color
d) Change back to the original colors
e) Another special edition of 200 units, then produce 500 units...
f) Six years later, then come up with a "performance" bike.

[macfly]

That's funny, but after all those reveals on the motor and the mule last year, where is it?

[SergioK]

I wonder if the new model will have a stereo system to produce engine and exhaust sounds. Perhaps the guys over the //M are already working on transplanting the existing M5 system to the new water cooled bikes?

[leafman60]

Oh, I expect the sound of the new engine will be okay, especially after an aftermarket exhaust.

I am not fond of water-cooled bikes because of the radiators and complications. A naked sportster like the 1200S would look hideous with all that stuff hanging out in the breeze. The more fully faired HP2 has better ways of hiding it.

I do expect power output will be up on the new motor.

[Meeni]

Originally Posted by SergioK

I wonder if the new model will have a stereo system to produce engine and exhaust sounds. Perhaps the guys over the //M are already working on transplanting the existing M5 system to the new water cooled bikes?

Wait what ? The M5 comes with some motor noise making device because the V10 doesn't make a nice enough noise ??

[Meeni]

Hu, that is just so wrong on so many levels that it leaves me confused and angry.

Fake Engine Sounds for Your 2012 BMW M5 | The CarGurus Blog

[NakedRider]

I don't think it's going to happen. BMW has the S1000RR for those interested in HP. My bet is that it will be closer to 120 - 130 HP.

[leafman60]

Heck, they're getting that kind of power out of the air-cooled twins now. I really expect to see some significant power advantage on the water-cooled engine. It is "progress" and it may also win over people like me who do not like water-cooling.

Also, there are a lot of people who prefer a twin. Look over this list at the 1200S and HP2 people here. Some of them spend buckets of cash trying to squeeze more juice out of them too. They have little interest in the S1000 but a more potent twin may be a different story.

Im just glad I have my 1200S. Plenty of power and performance for me in a rakish-looking, naked, sporty bike.