A Cruiser With A Bavarian Heart: Exploring The BMW R 1200 C Custom

A Cruiser with a Bavarian Heart: Exploring the BMW R 1200 C Custom

The BMW R 1200 C Custom, a motorcycle that defied categorization, was a fascinating blend of cruiser styling and the renowned German engineering that defined the brand. Launched in 1997, this motorcycle aimed to capture the spirit of American cruisers while retaining the signature BMW reliability and performance.

A Bold Design Statement:

The R 1200 C Custom’s design was a departure from the traditional BMW aesthetic. Its long, low profile, with a stretched-out silhouette and a generous rake angle, evoked the image of a classic American cruiser. The large, swept-back handlebars, the low-slung seat, and the extended front fender all contributed to this impression.

However, the BMW heritage was evident in the motorcycle’s details. The distinctive boxer engine, a hallmark of BMW motorcycles, was prominently displayed, its air-cooled cylinders gleaming under the chrome accents. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, reminiscent of vintage BMW models, further emphasized this connection.

A Symphony of Chrome and Leather:

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1 A Cruiser with a Bavarian Heart: Exploring the BMW R 1200 C Custom

The R 1200 C Custom was a motorcycle designed to be seen. Its chrome accents, adorning the engine, exhaust pipes, mirrors, and wheels, sparkled under the sun, reflecting the rider’s personality and the motorcycle’s bold character. The plush leather seat, available in various colors, offered a comfortable ride, while the integrated luggage rack provided ample space for touring essentials.

Engineered for Comfort and Performance:

The heart of the R 1200 C Custom was its air-cooled, horizontally opposed, two-cylinder engine. This 1170cc powerplant, known for its smooth, torquey nature, delivered a healthy 98 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque, making it capable of effortless cruising and spirited acceleration. The engine’s smooth power delivery and the motorcycle’s low center of gravity contributed to its stability and handling, making it a joy to ride on both open roads and winding backroads.

A Ride Tailored for Comfort:

The R 1200 C Custom was designed with rider comfort in mind. The low seat height, combined with the wide, comfortable seat, made it easy to reach the ground, while the wide handlebars provided ample leverage for maneuvering. The suspension, a combination of telescopic forks in the front and a monoshock in the rear, effectively absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.

A Cruiser with a Bavarian Heart: Exploring the BMW R 1200 C Custom

A Legacy of Innovation:

The R 1200 C Custom was a testament to BMW’s innovative spirit. It was one of the first cruisers to feature a shaft drive, eliminating the need for a chain and contributing to its low maintenance requirements. The motorcycle also offered an optional ABS system, enhancing safety and providing an added layer of confidence to riders.

A Motorcycle for the Discerning Rider:

The R 1200 C Custom was not just a motorcycle; it was a statement. Its unique blend of cruiser aesthetics and BMW engineering appealed to riders who sought a comfortable and stylish ride without sacrificing performance. It offered a unique blend of luxury and practicality, making it an ideal companion for long journeys and leisurely weekend rides.

A Look Back at the R 1200 C Custom:

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A Cruiser with a Bavarian Heart: Exploring the BMW R 1200 C Custom

The R 1200 C Custom was a bold experiment for BMW, a foray into a segment traditionally dominated by American manufacturers. While it wasn’t a commercial success, it left a lasting mark on the motorcycle world, demonstrating the brand’s ability to innovate and adapt to new trends.

The R 1200 C Custom: A Detailed Look:

Engine:

Type: Air-cooled, horizontally opposed, two-cylinder
Displacement: 1170cc
Power: 98 horsepower
Torque: 87 lb-ft
Transmission: 5-speed, shaft drive

Chassis:

Frame: Steel tubular frame

Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: Monoshock
Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear (optional ABS)
Wheels: Spoked wheels with chrome accents

Dimensions:

Length: 2,530 mm
Width: 1,000 mm
Height: 1,120 mm
Seat Height: 710 mm
Wheelbase: 1,660 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 liters

Features:

Chrome accents on engine, exhaust pipes, mirrors, and wheels
Leather seat with integrated luggage rack
Optional ABS system
Shaft drive
Air-cooled boxer engine

Pros:

Comfortable riding position
Smooth and powerful engine
Reliable and durable
Stylish design
Shaft drive for low maintenance

Cons:

Heavy weight
Limited storage space
Not as agile as some other cruisers
Not as widely available as other BMW models

Conclusion:

The BMW R 1200 C Custom was a unique motorcycle that combined the best of both worlds: the classic American cruiser style with the renowned German engineering of BMW. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of other BMW models, it remains a testament to the brand’s ability to push boundaries and create motorcycles that stand out from the crowd. For riders seeking a comfortable, stylish, and reliable cruiser, the R 1200 C Custom offers a unique and rewarding experience.

In addition to the above, here are some additional thoughts on the R 1200 C Custom:

A Timeless Design: While the R 1200 C Custom was a departure from BMW’s traditional aesthetic, its design elements, like the teardrop-shaped fuel tank and the boxer engine, have aged gracefully. It remains a stylish and visually appealing motorcycle even today.
A Motorcycle for the Long Haul: The R 1200 C Custom was designed for long-distance touring, and its comfortable riding position, ample storage space, and reliable engine make it ideal for extended journeys.
A Unique Piece of Motorcycle History: The R 1200 C Custom was a bold experiment for BMW, and it represents a unique period in the brand’s history. For enthusiasts of motorcycle history, it’s a fascinating and collectible motorcycle.
A Motorcycle for the Individualist: The R 1200 C Custom was not a motorcycle for everyone. It was designed for riders who appreciated its unique blend of style, comfort, and performance. For those who sought a motorcycle that stood out from the crowd, the R 1200 C Custom was a perfect choice.

The R 1200 C Custom may no longer be in production, but its legacy lives on. It remains a testament to BMW’s ability to create unique and innovative motorcycles that appeal to a wide range of riders. For those seeking a comfortable, stylish, and reliable cruiser, the R 1200 C Custom remains a compelling choice.

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