[nickgilkes]

I wouldn't worry about it too much. It's BMW being BMW. This stops stones and junk spun up by the wheel holing your radiator. Same way they included (small) crash bungs as standard.
What other manufacturer does that?

It's safe to ride (and clearly its done its job) until you put a repaired/new one back on...

 

[nickgilkes]

@Capt howdy no no not missing anything. Just saying I don't think it's absolutely essential to have there for the short duration.... basically an OEM radiator guard.... same thing you were saying, except I didn't scroll up first before letting loose with the keyboard.
I shall now retreat back to my cave....

 

[nickgilkes]

Now I think about it, the usual placement of motorbike radiators is a terrible piece of design... almost ALL bikes run that risk (notable exceptions are Benelli TNT 1130 for example). Well done BMW for supplying a radiator protector out of the factory..

 

[nickgilkes]

Thought this was interesting.. shows what is out there...
Protective Grille Cooler Guard Radiator 17117676495 BMW K1200R K12R 05-08 | eBay