BMW K1300S
“The spec is light years ahead of any other nine-year-old bike”
£4500-£10,500 • 1293cc inline four • 173bhp • 103lb·ft • 254kg
What is it?
Not as outright, outrageously fast as a Hayabusa or ZZR1400, but a more sophisticated all-rounder than either. After having a few hiccups with its K1200S predecessor, BMW turned to engine experts Ricardo (based in little ol’ Shoreham) for help. The resulting 1293cc engine was not only bigger, more powerful and more torquey but also smoother, cleaner and more frugal. The motor found itself in pretty much the same chassis as before: a long, low aluminium twin-spar frame with a Duolever front end and a shaftdrive out back.
Why do I want one?
Because the spec is light years ahead of any other nine-year-old bike. Pick the right K1300S and you could have electronically adjustable suspension, ABS, traction control, a quickshifter and heated grips. And — get this — a BMW with a single button for the indicators, which was considered heresy back in 2009. With a set of the optional expandable hard panniers fitted (good luck finding those for a Busa or ZZR) the K can flick between two-up mile-muncher and solo thrillseeker in seconds.
What should I look for?
The micro-switchgear is notoriously fragile, with an official recall to replace it in 2010. Check it all thoroughly before buying, ensuring nothing sticks in place or fails to function — sounds trivial but a dicky killswitch can leave you stranded. A full BMW service history is desirable too, for the peace of mind as well as the bike’s future resale value.