BMW bicycles: model characteristics, pros and cons

There are many types of bicycles. But among them, those models that are produced by proven firms with extensive experience deserve special attention. Next in line is a story about bicycle equipment supplied from Bavaria.

Hardly anyone needs to represent the BMW brand today. Even those people who know nothing about cars understand how prestigious it is. But at the same time, the company had to overcome not such an easy path as it seems in order to reach today's shining peaks and world fame. The advantages of the company are already confirmed by the fact that its annual turnover exceeds 170 billion conventional units. At the same time, from 9 to 10 billion turns out to be a net profit.

As is known, the head office of the company is located in the German city of Munich. But the production facilities themselves are found in many other parts of the world. BMW began its journey back in 1916, when the production of aircraft engines started. Due to the ban on the development of aviation after During World War I, the company had to change its profile as follows:

1. at first she took up the production of railway brakes;
2. then I turned my attention to motorcycles (and immediately gained popularity);
3. in 1928, the Bavarian manufacturer switched to the production of cars (initially small cars);
4. in the 1950s, when the concern was just beginning to recover from the consequences of the war, it was again crippled by a drop in demand for new models of cars, which turned out to be too expensive;
5. in the next decade, the company had to deal with the development of the production of sedans and coupes; these machines not only had excellent technical properties, but also looked good;
6. the stage of rapid development fell on the 1970s – 1990s; the complete set of products was constantly improved.

The company continues to produce motorcycles - and they remain popular. And also it is engaged in the production of motors, and the manufacture of sports cars. The accumulated colossal experience allows us to calmly deal with the most difficult technical problems. All technical achievements and know-how of the Bavarian company are applied in the production of bicycles..

A special feature of BMW bicycles is that they are manufactured using alloy wheels. The first glance at such a wheel gives an erroneous estimate - it may seem that it is some kind of especially expensive unique made to order. Initially, alloy wheels were used only on expensive sports bicycles. Their main advantage, along with an attractive appearance, is their improved aerodynamic characteristics. For casting, only proven aluminum alloys are used, which facilitate the structure and guarantee its increased rigidity.

Proven casting technology gives a completely homogeneous disc structure. The appearance of the slightest dents and deflections is excluded. The joints are performed at an impeccable level, especially since German engineers take over the job.

A good alloy wheel has the following features:

• looks unusual and attracts attention;
• reduces the resistance of the bike to air flow;
• does not require complex care;
• very resistant to minor deformations and strong impacts.

First, it should be said that cast wheels from Bavaria, like any other popular product, are actively forged. Since counterfeiters strive to save as much as possible, their technological process is not followed or is almost not followed. If the technology is not followed, injection molding gives a very poor result, especially when using outdated or low-quality equipment.

The result is a product that has various external and internal defects. However, only trained specialists will be able to deeply understand this, and an ordinary consumer needs to look for official stores and demand certificates of conformity.

But it is important to understand that cast wheels have such characteristics as:

• more expensive than usual;
• rather heavy, despite the use of lightweight alloys;
• pretty tough;
• cannot be repaired if a breakdown does occur.

There is an opinion that alloy wheels are suitable only for accurate driving in the city or on a highway with a good hard surface. But this opinion was formed under the impression of low-quality handicrafts supplied by manufacturers of dubious levels. Since inexpensive alloys are too brittle, they do not allow you to overcome barriers and make daring maneuvers. However, BMW products are an order of magnitude better than dubious products. They are strong enough to be used for the following purposes:

• in cycling;
• hiking in the mountains and foothills;
• when traveling at a limited speed within the city;
• to show dashing tricks and exercises;
• for down hill or cross country practice.

It is appropriate to start the description of the characteristics of the original bicycles of the Bavarian concern with the BMW X6 model. A Taiwanese plant is engaged in the production of this model. It does not add up, and the release started in 2018. For the manufacture of discs, an aluminum-magnesium alloy or ordinary steel is used. This bike can be ridden by a person of height from 1.45 to 1.95 m, provided that the total load does not exceed 125 kg.

Other parameters are as follows:

• disc brakes on a mechanical basis have a size of 0.16 m;
• outer section of wheels - 26 inches;
• tire size - 26x1.95;
• lockable fork with 0.1 m travel;
• vertical trigger shifters from the Japanese manufacturer Shimano;
• switching between 21 speeds;
• Disc Alloy bushings
• time-tested aluminum pedals;
• seat covered with genuine leather.

The BMW X1 model also deserves attention. This version has a wide range of colors and can ride a bike at 21 speeds. In the manufacture of the frame, steel and hardtail are used. The spring fork is made of steel. The unladen weight of the bike is 15 kg. It can move normally with loads up to 130 kg. The device is designed for people with a height of 1.45 to 1.9 m.

All technical equipment on the bike manufactured by Shimano Corporation. The 24 ”discs are made from hardened special steel. But there is also another variation of the X1, which uses 26-inch wheels. The unladen weight of the bike, despite the increased diameter of the wheels, grows to only 16 kg. At the same time, it also uses Japanese construction equipment.

When analyzing the Bavarian originals on cast wheels, it is worth paying attention to the folding MINI Folding Bike model. This bike comfortable and stylish at the same time... Folding takes place in a few seconds. This greatly simplifies both transportation and storage. The frame is dark gray with a matte sheen. Both the seat and the handles are manufactured made of flawless natural leather.

An 8-speed gearbox is provided for gear shifting. You will have to ride on wheels with a diameter of 8 inches. Thanks to the Teflon coating, the bike chain is almost free from dirt. For the manufacture of the product, aluminum and stainless steel are used. Despite the innovativeness of the folding system, it works very simply.

The Cruise M is also worth a look. This Bavarian development is made of aluminum. The frame is produced by the hydraulic forming method. The company purchases the shock-absorbing fork for this model from SunTour. An original and very good innovation is the use of Shimano's 30-speed bogies.

The seatpost is made of carbon fiber. The tires are equipped with an advanced safety system. Both the wheels and the contrasting details are colored red. The tire diameter is 22 inches. The total weight of the structure is 15 kg, while the bike is equipped with Shimano BR-M395 hydraulic disc brakes.

If you need a mountain bike from the entire range of the Bavarian concern, you should pay attention to the BMW Enduro 2012 model. It is in the 2012 version that it is in greatest demand. There are black and green specimens. There are 2 frame options: for people with a height of 1.65–1.78 and 1.74–1.9 m, respectively.

The modernized matt black frame combined with rich greens and glossy blacks looks attractive. The designers have provided for the equipment of the model with spectacular-looking wheels of an innovative level. Consumers can benefit from individual settings... The 2012 BMW Enduro construction is equally well suited for uphill climbing, hill descent and freeriding.

The total weight of the bike is 14.8 kg. The frame is made according to the monocoque scheme. To obtain it, a pair of identical aluminum parts obtained by the rolling method was used. A robotic complex is responsible for welding. The metal is coated with a layer of powder paint. The only negative characteristic of this model is its high price.

As for sports races, you can pay attention, for example, to the BMW X5. Store this foldable bike in the tightest of spaces. With any frame configuration, the model weighs no more than 16 kg. Selected Japanese components are used to switch between speeds and for braking. Not only the discs, but the steering wheel, frame and pedals are formed from a strong and relatively light alloy of aluminum and magnesium.

The bike, with a dead weight of 15.7 kg, is designed for a load of up to 130 kg. An important feature of this version is the spring-elastomer fork. Its developers have provided for both blocking the stroke and changing the rigidity. The standard travel is 0.12 m. Provides 24 speeds, and the vertical shifters meet the "Wi-break" standard.

Quite a few people, note, are interested in buying blue Bavarian bicycles. In this case, they need to pay attention to the E-Bike. Incidentally, such a modification perfectly matches the canons of sports driving, allows you to get extraordinary pleasure when driving on bumps - it doesn't matter if it is down or up. A very important feature is the equipment with an electric motor. A special mobile application provides control of the battery charge level.

Calculations based on the estimated route length or the expected driving time can be used to select a rational charge support scheme. There is also a special overcharge protection.

As befits a touring bike, the E-Bike is equipped with an extra strong frame with intelligent weight distribution. The frame has one of the following dimensions for the height of the user:

• 1.58-1.68 m;
• 1.68-1.78 m;
• 1.78-1.85 m;
• 1.85-1.93 m.

They are designated by the letters S, M, L, XL. The fork travel is 0.15 m. It is also optimized for comfortable riding. The hydraulic brake is powerful and reliable. Switches provide fast, accurate shifting without gripping. With 27.5-inch wheels, you can drive safely even on uneven roads.

The motor power is 0.25 kW. It works pretty quietly. A built-in battery is provided that allows you to drive 100–150 km. The bike weighs 23.2 kg.

But for a younger audience, the Cruise Junior model will come in handy. This aluminum product has a unique frame. It is designed for riders aged 6-9 years. There are red accents on the seat and steering wheel. The angle of the tube under the seat allows for the height of children.

Experienced BMW bike owners and new buyers say that these units are very good and well worth the investment. The Cruise M versions are rated positively for their attractive looks and saddle comfort. The gears switch easily and clearly. However, it is boring to remember that If you suddenly climb onto a curb with a locked handle, a fall is likely.

The BMW X5 is getting more mixed reviews. This bike is well worth the price, but some people mention the poor quality of the parts.... The appearance, judging by such reviews, only masks the actual state of affairs. The bike rides fine, but complaints about pedals, chain guards, and attachment performance are common.

But the BMW X1 undoubtedly gets rave reviews for its appearance.... The running characteristics of the model are quite satisfactory for people.The mechanisms work well. Good dynamics are noted during overclocking. However, the fork is a little stiff. However, with a calm riding style, the model does not cause problems.

Mountain bikes can be chosen not only for lovers of an aggressive driving style, who want to conquer difficult off-road conditions. Such models will suit both those who are going to safely ride on the highway and those who drive along city streets. A characteristic feature of a mountain bike is wide tires with deep tread. Cross-country is designed to tackle light off-road terrain. In more difficult conditions, it will not cope, but the low cost and practicality justify this disadvantage. The "double suspension" option is more expensive, but due to the improved damping system, it allows you to ride more comfortably.

But one must understand that this was achieved due to the greater mass and complication of movements. The swinging of the bike forces you to exert more force than usual. Downhill models should be selected when descending at high speed from steep slopes and ledges. These modifications are prized for their superior durability. These are the bicycles that professionals take when they go to competitions.

Children's bike is intended for ages up to 5-7 years old inclusive. If we talk about teenage models, it must be pointed out that they differ from adults not in terms of equipment, but in weight and dimensions. These versions are optimized for riders aged 7-14. Regardless of target age you need to pay attention to the size of the bike... If it is chosen incorrectly, it can create a lot of problems and inconveniences.

The steel frame is durable and saves money. However, this metal is heavy and can be damaged by corrosion. Aluminum-based alloys are lightweight and resistant to rusting. However, the frame made on their basis cannot be repaired. Therefore, you will have to drive quite carefully or save money to buy a replacement frame. To save money, they often purchase spring front shock absorbers, but they are practically inoperative. Spring-elastomeric samples proved to be much better.

For information on how to distinguish BMW bicycles from fake, see the next video.