Long Beach Show: 2008 BMW Motorcycles

The Bavarian firm had some great new models to show at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, although not everything they had at the European shows will be coming to our shores. The much-anticipated F800GS—the dual-sport version of the new-for-2007 F800S and F800ST parallel-Twins—was there, and will be offered to U.S. buyers early next year. The new bike actually gets an all-new tube-steel frame, revised engine architecture and chain final drive instead of a toothed belt. BMW claims dry weight is under 400 pounds.

Also for America are the revamped R1200GS and R1200GS Adventure. They get some cosmetic upgrades, a five percent boost in power to 105 horsepower, and optional Enduro Electronic Suspension Adjustment. The E-ESA changes suspension settings at the push of a button.

Fresh from its press introduction at Ascari, Spain is the HP2 Sport. It uses an all-new cylinder head and generous doses of carbon-fiber to make it the lightest, fastest Boxer-Twin sportster yet. All three bikes will be in dealers in the spring, but there is no official word yet as to USA pricing.