BMW is taking on established superbike manufacturers with its S1000RR. And on horsepower alone, has indicated it is very serious about this market. It claims 147kW, which is higher than any of its competitors - as confirmed by independent testing.
In my experience, BMW is often quite conservative with its power claims. In the past when it claimed 74kW, random quality control testing produced between 75kW and 78kW. So if you get a S1000RR with a Wednesday motor you could have a 149kW superbike! And, with a wet kerb weight of 204kg, this would mean a toxic combination of power and lightness.
Anyway, to control things, there’s a very sophisticated electronic traction control system fitted. Four modes called “rain”, “sport”, “race” and “slick” link the ABS sensitivity to power limitation and delivery sharpness. In the “rain” mode, power is reduced to 112kW, with a softer throttle response to help the rider in slippery conditions. “Slick” mode has a more complicated engagement system so the rider cannot accidentally engage it.
The bike’s front and rear suspension allows a full range of adjustment, so handling can be set to suit most riders’ requirements. Overall quality appears good, while quirky asymmetrical styling dominates. This grew on me, although BMW says the fairing styling is a result of function over form (it is said to aid cooling).
As a first attempt, BMW have produced a bike that sets new standards for power and electronic safety features.
The bike utilises conventional design trends, that is, a 4-cylinder engine in a cast aluminium frame, which has allowed it to market the bike at a very competitive R158 950 for the base model or R177 950 for the full ABS DTC equipped unit.
