It’s been just two years since the launch, in 2009, of the BMW Motorrad S 1000 RR and now the Bavarian house are presenting the revised model of this successful supersports bike, now with many optimised details.
The primary objectives were even greater riding precision and agility, a punchier power buildup, and a more sensitive response. The revised model of the S 1000 RR has incorporated quite a few feedback reports from national super stock races.
BMW say the features of the new S 1000 RR are its improved handling with absolute riding stability, engine performance with everyday practicality, and dynamic performance. The highest level of active safety is safeguarded by the most advanced brake system on the market today, the BMW Motorrad Race ABS. When accelerating, the rider is supported by the Dynamic Traction Control system DTC.
There have been no changes to the engine power of 142 kW (193 hp) with a weight of 204 kilograms including 90% fuel (206.5 weight with Race ABS).
The reconfigured throttle improves overall response and this new, optimised design raises response sensitivity, tightens the twistgrip angle, and reduces the twisting force.
The modifications to the new RR suspension have been instrumental in boosting its riding dynamics according to BMW. For instance, the upside down fork and the spring strut feature a new internal structure, providing an even wider range of damping forces from comfort to performance.
Moreover, the suspension geometry has been modified with new values for the steering head angle, offset, position of the swing arm pivot, fork projection, and spring strut length to yield even better handling, steering accuracy, and feedback for the new S 1000 RR. This has required modifications to the main frame that also included enlarging the cross sectional area of the intake air guide through the steering head for greater air flow efficiency. This package of suspension optimisations is rounded off by an adjustable mechanical steering damper.
The engine speed display has been redesigned for better readability. In addition, the display can now be dimmed and provides more functions. For instance, the lap timer can now present “Best lap in progress”, and if required, “Speedwarning” can inform the rider when he exceeds a particular speed.
The tail section has been on a diet and there have been some discrete changes to the asymmetrical side panels, and the centre airbox cover now sports side aperture grilles. On the top part of the panels, a new, telling identifying feature takes the form of two winglets that enhance the aerodynamic qualities.
There are also some new colours, there’s Racing red and Alpine white, Bluefire which is extravagant to say the least, Sapphire black metallic, and in BMW Motorrad Motorsport colours. The distinctive RR logo has been slightly modified.
Additional visual accents take the form of wheels painted in glossy black and the red spring in the central strut. The matching swing arm either presents an anodised coating or is kept in black.
Also the ergonomics has been improved in the form of new heel plates for the rider. The stabilisers on the passenger footrests have now been designed for a leaner look.
For individualising the new S 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad is expanding its range of optional extras and special equipment ex works with a number of attractive features. Riders with a particularly sporty bent can now equip their RR with an HP titanium exhaust system (with or without ABE) or the HP race data logger. Also the heated grips offering two levels and fitted as optional extra can take the bite out of the early morning run on the racetrack or longer rides in cold weather.
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