BMW K 1300 GT - Manual (Page 27)

BMW
Media
Information
10/2008
Page 27
The spring rate and its control map are modifi ed by a plastic element
(Elastogran) which, in combination with a conventional coil spring, takes up
forces in the inbound stroke. During the inbound stroke motion the defl ection
of this element to the side is limited, depending on the setting chosen,
by a sleeve pushed into position with the help of a step motor acting like
a stronger and fi rmer spring.
This almost completely eliminates any sagging motion of the rear end in the
inbound stroke and any change in suspension geometry otherwise caused
in this way. So with the rider adopting the same style and riding in the same
style, the K 1300 S is just as stable on the road when carrying its full load as it
is when the rider is riding solo.
Should the rider change the damper rate by pressing the button while riding,
ESA II will adjust the spring rate accordingly, again maintaining the normal
dynamic set-up of the suspension in virtually every situation. This is made
possible by a particularly powerful step motor in a position to vary spring rate
also under load. Accordingly, the appropriate spring rate is maintained under
all conditions with every damper setting chosen.
In the Sports setting the normal set-up of the machine is modifi ed for even
better handling and the rear end of the motorcycle is raised up. This shortens
wheel castor, which remains at the same consistently higher standard
regardless of the load the motorcycle is carrying.
Wheel load at the front, in turn, remains consistent, depending on the
spring rate chosen in advance. This ensures the same level of riding and
brake stability as well as superior steering precision at all times.
Additional adjustment of the spring rate provided by ESA II makes it possible
to increase the spread of settings in the Sports, Normal and Comfort
programs versus ESA I, the rider thus benefi ting from an ever wider range of
adjustment options on the road. In other words, the Sports mode offers even
greater dynamics and precision, the Comfort mode ensures an even higher
standard of comfort together with excellent stability.
Wheels and tyres – extra stable lightweight wheels,
rear tyre in new dimensions.
The light-alloy cast wheels on the K 1300 S are already well-known from
the K 1200 S. The particular shape and design of the wheel spokes were
determined by means of an innovative, bionic calculation model, a type
of calculation based on the building principles and structure we see in nature.
In this process, proceeding from load data and tightening conditions on the