BMW PowerCup to debut at French GP.

The French Motorcycle Grand Prix on May 13-15 will mark the opening round of the new BMW Motorrad PowerCup series - the replacement for the popular BoxerCup - which features race bikes based on the German marque's new K1200 R.

The machine (pictured) delivers a power output of 175bhp, accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3-seconds and is expected to provide close, exciting racing in the process.

The race spec K1200 R features altered engine settings, specially adapted racing suspension and carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) body components: The engine spoiler, lamp mask, hand protectors, intake panels and rear trim (including pillion seat cover) are all made from the extremely light and high-grade material.

A throaty-sounding LASER racing exhaust system boosts performance and provides an appropriate racing tone, while the bike also features a semi-automatic gearbox and an adjustable footrest layout. The race bike is equipped with Metzeler Racetec tyres and comes with a lap-timer and a gearshift indicator.

Riders such as the Swiss Andy Hofmann and other participants of last year's BoxerCup - like St?phane Mertens from Belgium, Thomas Hinterreiter from Austria and Roberto Panichi from Italy - will compete in the new PowerCup championship.

The winner can look forward to being presented with a BMW 630i Coup? and the runner-up will drive away with an X3 2.0d. Third prize will be a new generation BMW motorcycle.

The PowerCup will take place at the following seven European racetracks in support of the 2005 MotoGP World Championship:

15 MayLe Mans French Grand Prix
4 JuneMugello Italian Grand Prix
25 JuneAssen Dutch TT
24 JulyDonington Park British Grand Prix
30 JulySachsenring German Grand Prix
28 AugustBrno Czech Republic Grand Prix
6 November Valencia Valencia Grand Prix