Cool litte report would be nice.
The bike tested was the HP, i.e BMW racing colors with gold colored rims, and it had very low miles that required gentle handling of the engine. There were also a long list of test riders, so only limited time for each of us.
Basically it's an -18 with new paint and new heads. Suspension is slightly improved yet again, probably improved shocks and software. Allegedly the geometry is unchanged. The engine behaved quite "sweet", with an improved pull at lower rpm. Due to the bike being so new I did not try test the top end. The initial feeling did not provide a dramatic wow, rather the feeling of riding the next step of the evolution. No vibration or jerking. But even so, it runs lean, aimed to meet Euro-5. I don't think Hiltop and AF-XIED will loose their marked.
The sound from the engine has been commented already, quite frankly it reminded me of the sound of the 1200 LC, noise level as well as any other aspect. May be there is a difference at higher RPM, which I did not try.
The brakes worked great, they gave a more distinct bite than previous models.
The key question, is upgrading to the 1250 worth it? A friend of mine has a loaded -18 GSA. He did not want to upgrade yet, and I agree. My self, owner of a -15 GSA, to me, upgrading will be done. I'm waiting for the GSA though. But my plans are to enter the -19 season with a -19 GSA...
As for the engine and higher HP such as the KTM and Ducati offers, my personal view is: forget it. The boxer was and will continue to be the master of low end and mid range torque. For higher RPMs, the boxer will not be the way to go, unless you go to 4 cyl. The two jugs with their reciprocal movement pumps too much air in and out of the crankcase. No matter what technology is being applied, a V-twin will always be able to do even more. But even the 1200 LC offers way more power than yours truly is able to handle, so my only reason for upgrading is, as is probably the case for most of us, because I want one. I enjoy the torque, it is so well suited to my favorite roads