BMW S 1000 RR, the German superbike reaches new heights of performance

Since 2009, BMW Motorrad has been competing on its own merits for the title of best road superbike, a commitment that started very strongly with the S 1000 RR and which, over the years, has been consolidated into one of the most sought-after and admired sports motorcycles for its quality and level of components. Its continuous development continues, and the S 1000 RR arrives for 2023 with improvements, especially in its aerodynamics.

Although one of the most appreciated parts of the BMW S 1000 RR is undoubtedly its engine, an inline four-cylinder that has always stood out for its power and delivery, this new update brings improvements in terms of power. The engine remains the same as the outgoing model, but its output has risen to 210 CV, a gain of 3 CV, along with torque of 113 Nm, and the rev range is now wider, reaching 14,600 rpm.

This engine is still positioned 32º forward and continues to serve as a stressed member for the aluminium chassis, which has also had its geometry modified with a view to improving precision in riding. To this end, the steering rake has been reduced by 0.5º, and the offset of the triple clamps has been reduced by 3 mm, which also means better feel and control over the front end. Attached to the chassis is the rear swingarm, which features several openings on its sides designed to optimise lateral flex.

The new BMW S 1000 RR hardly changes in its styling; it remains as spectacular and eye-catching as the outgoing model, but it does adapt to the new trends set by superbikes that come directly from racing, with the addition of winglets on its fairing. This creates greater aerodynamic downforce on the front axle, reducing the front end’s tendency to lift, allowing later braking and greater stability through corners. The rear, now lighter, has also been modified to present a more sporty look.

The BMW S 1000 RR has always boasted a large technological arsenal, and that will continue, but the German brand now incorporates Slide Control integrated into the Dynamic Traction Control DTC system, with which the rider can now select two preset slip angles for the traction control system when accelerating out of corners, all thanks to a steering angle sensor. As a result, as long as we do not exceed the established lean angle, traction control allows the rear wheel to slide when we accelerate out of a corner, but if that lean angle is exceeded, DTC kicks in and reduces the slide to stabilise the bike.

Another new feature in the new BMW S 1000 RR is Brake Slide Assist, which follows much the same path as the previous new function but in reverse: when we brake. Using steering angle sensors as well, Brake Slide Assist allows the rider to specify a particular slip angle for what is known as “braking slides”, something that happens while sliding through corners at a sustained speed, and which will undoubtedly be very useful when you decide to take your S 1000 RR to the track.

BMW M 1000 RR and BMW M 1000 RR M Competition

If there is one thing BMW Motorrad undoubtedly does very well, it is transferring its racing experience to its superbikes. Add to that the support of the M Performance department and the result is the M 1000 RR, a model that the brand unveiled two years ago, an evolution of the S 1000 RR focused on track use.

Mechanically, the BMW M 1000 RR has not changed. It is the same inline four-cylinder that still delivers 212 CV at 14,500 rpm, but its top speed has increased from the 306 km/h of the outgoing model to 314 km/h for the new model. This is achieved thanks to the new carbon fairing, which features new fins that have considerably improved its aerodynamics (the outgoing model already had them), as well as improvements in other aerodynamic areas such as the front, with new air ducts integrated into the front mudguard that not only improve airflow but also help to cool the brakes.

Another interesting area that has been improved is the rear, where a new wiring harness with an LWS connector has been fitted, so that both the number plate holder and the lights can now be removed quickly and easily for track use. Finally, it is worth noting that the M 1000 RR will be offered in the basic non-metallic Lightwhite paint finish, and the M 1000 RR M Competition in the basic metallic Blackstorm paint finish, the latter also featuring other specific elements such as the M Aero rear wheel covers.

BMW Motorrad has also revealed the prices of both for our country, starting from 23,070 euros for the new S 1000 RR and from 38,170 euros for the M 1000 RR.