BMW launches new M1000RR superbike

As promised, BMW took the wraps off its first M-series motorcycles today, the M1000RR superbike. As expected, it’s got more horsepower and mid-range torque than the standard S1000RR superbike. BMW’s cut the bike’s weight, and also added aeroydynamic winglets and lots of other upgrades. MSRP is $42,400.

Starting with the engine: The new M1000RR has a more refined version of the Shiftcam inline four that’s already used in the S1000RR. The variable valve timing design carries over to the M1000RR, but most of the engine’s important bits are upgraded. New lighter two-ring pistons, titanium con rods (sourced from Pankl), revised intake ports and valve train, increased compression, and other tweaks add up to a new 209 horsepower peak output. Plus, the new engine is tuned to pull harder in the mid-range rpm (6,000 rpm to 9,500 rpm).

There’s a new titanium exhaust, updated anti-hop clutch and Rain, Road, Race and Dynamic riding modes. BMW also has provisions for three Race Pro modes, so riders can tweak their electric setup for the track. These riding modes manage more than just horsepower output; the modes manage the M1000RR’s traction control, ABS, throttle response and engine braking/wheelie control, so it’s important for racers to be able to configure them to their unique specifications.

The M1000RR comes with aerodynamic winglets, intended to provide stabilizing downforce at speed. The swingarm is stretched, lengthening the wheelbase. The steering head angle is flattened a bit, and BMW also updated the front and rear suspension to provide more track performance and stability, and accommodate the new front brake system. 

Speaking of which: BMW’s gone with Nissin calipers here, and slightly thicker front brake discs when compared to the S1000RR. There’s a set of 320mm discs up front, and a 220mm disc in rear. 

The wheels themselves are carbon-fibre, standard out-of-the-box (they’re optional on the S1000RR). Curb weight is 192 kg, thanks to those wheels, about five kg less than the S1000RR.

The M1000RR will be street-legal, unlike the previous HP4 superbike. Does that mean it will be homologated for CSBK use? Who knows. It’ll certainly be a force in World Superbike, though.

If you want more photos and technical deets, BMW’s already got the bike on its Canadian website. Scroll to the bottom of this page, and you can get a list of BMW’s optional equipment: tire warmer, datalogger, brake lever guard, lots of carbon-fibre bits, anti-theft alarm and a lot more.

Expect deliveries in early 2021.