Our test machine was fitted with the optional wider rear rim as well as the $1500 ABS option. Two-tone paint commands a $750 price premium while the standard anti-theft immobiliser system can be augmented with an audible alarm for $495. The base machine retails for $21000.

The two-tone Red-Silver colour scheme looks much better in the flesh than in any photograph and my pick would be between that colour scheme and the solid black finish. The White Aluminium colour scheme seemed a little bland to me at first but quickly grew on me, as did the Shine Yellow variant. Likewise the overall look of the machine became more and more agreeable to me as my bond with the machine grew stronger.

Yes, in only our all too short acquaintance I had really started to form a bond with R 1200 S. For potential owners, that certainly suggests that the R 1200 S ownership experience could be mighty rewarding indeed.

Tech Specs - BMW R 1200 S

• Engine - 1,170cc Boxer Twin

• Bore/stroke - 101/73MM

• Claimed Power - 122hp @ 8,250rpm

• Claimed Torque - 112Nm @ 6,800rpm

• Compression Ratio - 12.5:1

• Induction - BMS-K Electronic Fuel Injection, 52mm throttle bodies

• Clutch - Single dry plate

• Gearbox - Six speed

• Final Drive - Shaft (2.75)

• Front Suspension - BMW Telelever, Preload adjustable, 110mm of travel

• Rear Suspension - BMW Paralever, adjustable ride height, single adjustable shock (optional Fully adjustable Ohlins), 120mm of travel

• Front Brakes - 320mm discs with four-piston calipers (optional ABS)

• Rear Brake - 265mm disc (Optional ABS)

• Rims - 3.5x17 (F), 5.5x17(R) (Optional 6.0x17 rear rim)

• Tyres - 120/70ZR17 (F), 180/55ZR17 (R) (Optional 190/50ZR17 with 6 inch rim)

• Length - 2151mm

• Width - 870MM at the mirrors, 738mm at the bars

• Seat Height - 830mm

• Dry Weight - 190kg (213kg with all fluids and tank of fuel)

• Fuel Capacity - 17 litres (including four litre warning light reserve)

• Price - $21,000 + ORC

• Warranty - Two years, unlimited kilometres (optional extension to 36 months for $395)