BMW R1200

BMW R1200C
Vehicle information
Model	BMW R1200C
Manufacturer	BMW
Production	1997–2004
Class	cruiser
Engine	Two-cylinder boxer 1,170 cc
Torque	98 N·m (72 lb·ft) @ 3,000 rpm
Power	61 hp (45 kW)
Brakes	Dual disc front, single disc rear (optional ABS)
Dimensions	L 2,340 mm (92 in), W 1,050 mm (41 in), H 1,130 mm (44 in)
Weight	236 kg (520 lb) (dry), 256 kg (560 lb) (wet)

The BMW R1200C is a cruiser motorcycle manufactured by BMW Motorrad. From 1997 to 2004, BMW manufactured 40,218 units. BMW first released the R1200C with an advance promotional placement of the motorcycle in the 1997 James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies.

Overview

At the time of its introduction, the cruiser configuration represented more than half the US motorcycle market. The R1200C was BMW's attempt to tap into this market, and was a significant departure from their previous endeavors. The R1200C was designed by BMW head designer David Robb, featuring a cruiser riding posture. From its inception, the R1200C featured a passenger seat that could fold up to become a driver backrest with three different angles, adjustable while riding.

When BMW ended production of the R1200C lineup, Dr. Herbert Diess, then President BMW Motorrad, cited a prime reason for discontinuing the bike was the apparent unsuitability of the 1,170 cc (71 cu in), 61 hp (45 kW) engine to then current market tastes and the unavailability of a suitable engine for further development, but did not rule out BMW pursuing a reinterpretation of the cruiser idea at a later date. The final model of the R1200C to be produced was the commemorative Montauk model, of which 350 units were built.

James Bond's R1200C

Captured by Carver's henchman Stamper, whilst investigating the wreck of the Devonshire in the South China Sea, Bond and Wai Lin are taken to the CMGN tower in Saigon. Following a daring escape from the tower they manage to aquire a R1200C to make their escape. An intense action-packed chase through Saigon ensues which culminates in a spectacular stunt - jumping from one building to another over the whirling blades of a helicopter. This unique stunt was achieved by stuntman Jean-Pierre Goy.

Trivia

• Around the same time the movie was released, the BMW 750iL and R1200 could be purchased in a special promotional deal for $149,000 CAD.

• In 2012, the bike was later featured in the "Bond in Motion. 50 Vehicles. 50 Years." exhibition at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, England. Along with the rest of the exhibit, it is now on display in the London Film Museum, Covent Garden, London indefinitely.