A U T O B U Z Z     S P E C I A L

BMW Philippines Corporation has formally launched BMW Motorrad to the Philippine market in an extravagant event held at the NBC Tent in Fort Bonifacio last April 23.  This comes at a great time when BMW Philippines is experiencing a huge growth.  The German marque now controls 65 percent of the premium market segment, from 57 percent at the end of the fiscal year 2002.

Launching the motorcycle division in the fledging market is a bold decision for BMW Philippines. However, they are confident that an impressive line-up backed up with excellent customer service will assure success. 

Mr. Dec Decampong, the Motorcycle Manager of BMW Philippines together with BMW Philippines Corporation president Mark Gilbert greeted the audience, which gasped with awe at the sight of impressive two-wheeled machinery (not to mention the sexy babes put in for good measure).

Mr. Decampong further noted that BMW shows the same level of technical prowess and know-how that they’ve shown in their road cars.  For instance, it was BMW who first introduced the hydraulically shock-absorbed telescopic fork in 1935.  They also pioneered the first aerodynamically designed motorcycle with the R 100 S in 1978. 

The current crop of BMW motorcycles are no exception.  For instance, the four cylinder engine used in the K series is unique.  Together with a blocked on transmission, the flat positioned cylinders create a particularly compact drive unit.  Furthermore, it now has the latest digital engine electronics as well as fuel injection. 

Introduced here even before it debuts in the US market, is the twin-spark ignition system.  This improves the emissions of the renowned boxer twin engine.  Thanks to this change, BMW motorcycles now meet the strict EU2 and EU3 emissions standards.  Furthermore, the entire line comes with standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) with active braking power reinforcement.  In addition, new EVO calipers improve braking performance by having a 12.6 inch disc size (the old one had 12 inches). 

The entire BMW Motorrad core model range is exclusively available through Autohaus BMW, formerly known as Prestige Cars Libis.  Of course, BMW Philippines has plans to expand the dealership network in the near future.  The line-up includes: ENDURO (f650GS, F650GS DAKAR, R1150GS, R1150GS Adventure); CRUISER (R1200C, R1200CL); NAKED (F650CS, R1150R, R1150 Rockster); SPORT-TOURING (K1200RS); TOURING (R1150RT); LUXURY TOURING (K1200LT).

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