Tag Archives: Euro5

Motorcycle News, News

How BMW S 1000 XR meets emissions targets

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Many of the upgraded models shown at the EICMA motorcycle show are lighter, mainly to meet the tougher Euro5 emissions regulations which come into force next year.

One example is the BMW S 1000 XR which largely meets the emissions targets by shaving 10kg off the total weight.

However, they say they also manage to make the bike “faster” with a more linear torque.

Emissions ‘cheat’?BMW S 1000 XR emissions

Apart from the diet, the transmission has also been adjusted with higher rations in fourth, fifth, and sixth gears. That is what makes it “faster” in top gear.

The higher gearing also helps the bike meet the tough regulations which prescribe a certain cycle of revs, gears and speeds to comply with the standard emissions test.

It’s probably a bit of a cheat that everyone is doing, but BMW say it makes it more ridable and reduces noise.

Not sure how this equates to ride ability. Will sixth gear now be only suitable for the German autobahns? Anyway, at those speeds, wind noise is louder than engine and exhaust noise.

BMW S 1000 XR emissions

At least the 999cc inline four-cylinder engine now has a more linear torque curve which should mean most of those top gears are usable.

However, engine output remains at 121kW (165hp) at 11,000rpm and peak torque of 114Nm at 9250 rpm.

At least BMW has admitted the changes.

Many others make similar gear ratio adjustments but never advise customers. They only find out if they check the ratios in the tech specs or have a test ride.

Features

BMW S 1000 XR emissions

BMW Motorrad Australia spokesman Nick Raman says the S 1000 XR will arrive in June or early July with pricing announced closer to that date.

Other updates include standard LED lighting, cornering lights, four rider modes, full-colour TFT instruments, electronic suspension adjustment, hill hold control and dynamic brake control which reduces drive torque during braking to prevent rear wheel lockup.

Weight savings come from the 19% lighter double-sided swingarm, 5% lighter engine, and lighter exhaust and frame.

BMW says the ergos have been updated for more wind protection and comfort.

It also gets the RR’s “Flex Frame” where the engine takes on more of the load-bearing function for better agility.

Options include shift assist for clutchless up/down shifts, electronic cruise control, and daytime running lights.

It will be available in Ice Grey and Racing Red/White Aluminium.

2020 BMW S 1000 XRBMW S 1000 XR emissions

  • Engine: 999cc, DOHC Inline-4
  • Bore x stroke: 80mm x 49.7mm
  • Power: 121kW @ 11,500 rpm
  • Torque: 114Nm @ 9250rpm
  • Compression: 12.0:1
  • Transmission: Six-speed, chain
  • Frame: Aluminium bridge-type w/ load-bearing engine
  • Suspension: Fully adjustable 46mm fork; spring-preload and rebound-damping adjustable shock
  • Wheels: 3.50 x 17; 6 x 17 cast aluminium
  • Tyres: 120/70 x 17; 190/55 x 17
  • Brakes: 320mm floating discs w/ fixed four-piston calipers; 265mm disc w/ floating dual-piston caliper, ABS
  • Wheelbase: 1549mm
  • Rake: 25.5 degrees
  • Trail: 4.6 inches
  • Seat: 840mm
  • Fuel capacity: 19.6L
  • Economy: 5.3L/100km
  • Wet weight: 226kg

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Plan to ban motorcycles from Brussels CBD

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Belgium, which recognised the advantages of motorcycle commuting, may soon ban motorcycles from the Brussels CBD.

In 2011, the Belgian Leuven Transport and Mobility study found if 10% of all private cars were replaced by motorcycles, it would reduce traffic congestion by 40%.

However, the Belgian environment department is now considering banning motorcycles from Brussels because they don’t comply with the latest emissions regulations. However, they move to Euro5 targets from next year.

It’s a worrying development as governments around the world consider banning motorcycles or applying CBD congestion taxes.

CBD taxes and bans

Earlier this month, Melbourne renewed calls for a CBD congestion tax, but now the plan is to include motorcycles and scooters.

It’s not alone as cities around the world have introduced or are introducing congestion charges and bans on motorcycles not only to reduce traffic congestion but also air pollution:

  • Singapore has road-user charges in a CBD zone resulting in a 20% reduction in delays and plans to ban pre-2003 motorcycles throughout the city in 10 years;
  • Milan’s Ecopass charges all vehicles entering a designated traffic restricted zone and bans old cars and bikes that do not meet set emissions standards;
  • A cordon charge in Stockholm has led to 24% fewer commuter trips by car (motorcycles and scooters are exempt), with most people switching to public transport and Gothenburg following the same example;
  • China and Brazil are considering congestion charges in various cities;
  • Oregon, USA, has trialled a voluntary pay-per-mile distance charge resulting in a 22% drop in traffic in peak hours and a 91% approval by participants; and
  • London’s Low Emissions Zone charge has helped stabilise traffic congestion over the past decade despite population growth of 1.3 million. Motorcycles, scooters and electric vehicles are exempt, but from next month some older bikes will cop a £12.50 daily fee to access the new London Ultra Low Emissions Zone.London roundabout has safe boxes for cyclists, but not motorcyclists or scooter riders

Belgian waffle

The Belgian move follows recent reports in France and LA that point out that motorcycles have higher emissions levels than cars.

That’s true as cars are now on Euro6 and motorcycles are Euro4, moving to Euro 5 from January.

However, motorcycles are only a small proportion of the CBD traffic population.

Also, the plan does not take into account the fact that electric motorcycles and scooters sales are increasing at about 40% in Europe.

Such a short-sighted proposal should be seen as an indiscriminate attack on a legitimate and effective means of transport.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com