Alternative Radiators

[TrueAce]

After a good bit of digging, I have been unable to find technical information on the cooling specifications on the stock K100/75 radiator. Many advances have been achieved since the early eighties in cooling efficiency for water-cooled motorcycle engines. Has any of that technology been applied to K100/75 bikes? The obvious potential advantages could be weight savings from smaller aluminum radiators plus improved efficiency in cooling the engine. Anyone tried different radiators? Inquiring minds want too know!

[wmax351]

I'm sure you could estimate it, just based on surface area and/or horsepower.

K bikes don't have cooling issues, the cooling system is way overbuilt. The stock radiator can handle a turbocharged/intercooled K engine without breaking a sweat.

The biggest difficulty would be mounting it. The stock radiator is set up to cleanly integrate into the frame, as well as hold the thermostat and handle the bypass.

[TrueAce]

Agreed, the K engine is not thermally challenged. Mounting issues aside, I believe a radiator 25% of the OEM size should be able to handle the thermal loads, which are modest compared to a high horsepower engine like the S1000. Right now I am looking for a small aluminum donor to test. Will post as I make progress.