Formula Bmw: K-Bike Power For F-1 Hopefuls

FORMULA BMW: K-BIKE POWER FOR F-1 HOPEFULS

American open-wheel auto racing may be shrouded in a cloud of uncertainty, but BMW is forging ahead with what it believes is the future of the sport: Formula BMW USA. Utilizing a full carbon-fiber monocoque chassis built around a 140-horsepower variant of the 1171cc inline-Four that powers the K1200RS, and featuring adjustable wings and suspension, the FB2 is designed to serve as an effective training tool while remaining a thoroughly modern racer. Around the Circuit de la Comunitat in Valencia, Spain, the car exhibited more grip than power, yet still proved fast and fun to drive. Revving to 9000 rpm, the engine sounded like a pure racing machine, and propelled the 1000-pound FB2 down the track with real verve. The series is geared toward younger racers, age 15-23, and kicks off May 31 at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut. -Kim Wolfkill