BMW HP2 Megamoto. February 2009

The Boxer engined HP2 Mega-moto boasts an impressively powerful output of 83kW and 115Nm of torque. The air and oil cooled four-stroke flat twin 1,170cc motor has been tweaked to produce even more power than the BMW HP2 Enduro, introduced in 2005.

Complete with a trim, taut and terrific dry weight of 178kg, a seat height of 890mm (but with a low seat option of 845mm), the HP2 Megamoto is light and lithe. The largely unclothed tubular steel chassis, painted bright blue, accentuates the muscular outline of the Boxer engine and reveals the Öhlins spring and damper set up at the rear, replacing the BMW Air Shock used on the HP2 Enduro. Wide handlebars and optimum ergonomics provide the perfect platform to carve or slide through the twisty turns. The lightweight carbon fibre and high quality plastic aero efficient tank fairing has the BMW roundel placed on a trio of ribs that not only allows a perfect airflow but reinforces the skeletal look of the entire machine. Pared back to the basics, fully fat free, the Megamoto is a serious sport bike.

The supermoto market segment is a relatively young one. The BMW HP2 Megamoto arrives with the largest engine with the most torque and great handling. "The new BMW HP2 Megamoto represents the pinnacle of performance Boxer engines," said Cameron Cuthill, General Manager, BMW Motorrad Australia and New Zealand. "The combination of low down torque, a vast plateau of mid-range acceleration and a supremely agile chassis means the Megamoto will be for enthusiasts who really enjoy a spirited ride". The BMW HP2 Megamoto is priced from $28,400 + ORCs, with the bad news being that only a limited, by order, number will be available in Australia.