BMW S 1000 XR, the German sports trail bike gets a makeover and also arrives with more power

Trail bikes have stopped being simple adventure motorcycles, whether on asphalt or dirt, and have also become true sports bikes. A very recent example is the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS, presented just a few days ago. One of its main rivals is the BMW S 1000 XR, a motorcycle backed by the technology of the superbike S 1000 RR and which now takes a step forward with new modifications.

BMW Motorrad is presenting the new S 1000 XR before the end of the year, with changes that are not especially profound but are enough to give it a renewed look, improvements in riding comfort and, consequently, for the rider and, equally important, a small increase in power for its engine, so it does not lose ground to its main rivals.

Let us begin with the engine, which, as could not be otherwise, is still the same inline four-cylinder fitted to the spectacular S 1000 RR, but logically somewhat toned down to deliver a smooth and progressive yet powerful torque curve, mainly so that its manageability is as excellent as possible. BMW has introduced a new intake port flow geometry together with new power maps, resulting in an increase of 5 CV over its predecessor, now standing at 170 CV at 11,000 rpm, a speed that remains unchanged.

As mentioned at the beginning, some modern trail bikes have an even more pronounced sporting character thanks to their inspiration from their “R” siblings, something that is felt even more because they are also designed to give their best on the track. That is why BMW has decided to improve the ergonomics of the S 1000 XR to allow greater freedom of movement, especially in sporty riding or on the circuit. As a result, the new seat offers 10 mm more height (three different seat heights are available), reaching a total height from the ground of 850 mm, and is also wider and longer to allow a better fit during sporty riding.

Aesthetically, the BMW S 1000 XR undergoes no major changes, but they are perfectly visible compared with the outgoing model. At the front, its characteristic beak-shaped upper fender, located just below the headlight unit, will now be more discreet, as it is painted in the same colour as the rest of the bike, whereas its predecessor was painted black and stood out more; in addition, the radiator trim now has a textured surface. The other significant change is at the opposite end, at the rear, where new side panels fitted with side air intakes have been installed, inspired by the sportier bikes.

Motorcycles from BMW, like practically any motorcycle in the premium segment, offer an extensive catalogue of optional equipment with which to customise them to our taste, and the new S 1000 XR is no exception. What is interesting, however, is that BMW wants to offer its customers more by expanding the standard equipment, which, among other things, includes elements such as Headlight Pro headlights with adaptive cornering lights, daytime running lights (DRL), the Keyless Ride system, a battery that goes from 9 Ah to 12 Ah, and a USB charging port.

The new BMW S 1000 XR is already available at the brand’s Spanish dealerships, with a price starting from 22,249 euros.