The Next Level BMW S1000RR!!
by Bongi Nkosi · Published · Updated
The 2020 BMW S1000RR comes with newly developed engine, frame, suspension and electronics, engine output increased by 6kW (8hp) to 152kW (207hp) from the previous generation bike.
History of the BMW S1000RR
On day 1, in 2009 the production team needed 39 months to develop a sports bike for the first time. What came out of all that work was a bike with an engine that developed 193hp, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), a race ABS System and a quick shifter (for up shifts only). In 2012 a quick shifter for both up and down shifts was introduced is some countries, the South African Model RR unfortunately wasn’t installed with this type of new quick shifter. DTC was improved to the next level and the fairings were also updated. For 2013 a street version of the RR HP4 bike was introduced. At the time it was the 1st bike to have an electronic suspension, Dynamic Traction Control was also improved, and it came with a full Titanium exhaust system featuring forged wheels and weighed 199kg laden. BMW sold roughly 5600 units of this HP4 bike. The 2015 RR had an increased performance of the DTC, the quick shifter was updated with normal or race gear shift patterns, cruise control and better fairings. The major noticeable revision was the front look of the bike, the geometry of the front top fairing was mirrored around the centre and a new head lights design was introduced. The small and large headlights now appeared as if they were swooped around giving the bike a more aggressive look. The 2018 RR has similar specifications as the 2015 bike, the engine is pushing out the same amount of power and torque, however this year model bike is fitted with the DTC from the 2013 HP4 bike which allows for plus/minus adjustments on the fly.
Picture: BMW Motorrad
Picture: BMW Motorrad
Enter the Next Level BMW S1000RR
The new BMW S1000RR (RR) saw its world launch on 9 March 2019 at a wet Estoril Circuit in Portugal, it must have been fun and games for those who had a chance get onto its saddle, I think this was a best opportunity to test the effectiveness of the safety features like traction control, rain mode and ABS.
It comes with a completely newly developed engine and suspension, with engine output increased by 6 kW (8 hp) to 152 kW (207 hp) (in the USA: 151 kW (205 hp)) and a weight reduction of 208 kg to 197 kg (193.5 kg with M Package). The supersports bike originally launched in 2009 now goes into its third completely new generation. In addition to enhanced performance, other focus points were to make the new RR at least one second faster than its predecessor, create a more user-friendly design and ensure it offered maximum control and a smoother ride. Whether in everyday use on winding country roads or for high-performance race track riding, the new RR leaves nothing to be desired, especially as BMW Motorrad has pushed the assistance systems such as traction and wheelie control, ABS and Hill Start Control to a whole new level; the same applies to the LED lighting system and large TFT screen.
Picture: BMW Motorrad
RR’s newly developed engine now features a BMW ShiftCam Technology for further enhanced power in the lower and medium engine speed range and increased top-end power. At least 100 Nm of torque is available from 5 500 to 14 500 rpm and overall increase in power output and torque at 13 500 rpm and 113 Nm at 11 000 rpm. This results in an effort-saving, linear torque curve: further improved rideability and control due to increased torque in the lower and medium engine speed range.
The newly developed suspension features a Flex Frame, with the engine taking on more of a load-bearing function and significantly improves ergonomics as a result. Refined suspension geometry for further improved handling, increased traction and crystal-clear feedback in the threshold range. Further developments were made in electronic damping adaptation, Dynamic Damping Control DDC with new valve generation as an optional equipment item.
Rider aids and extra equipment / accessories
The new 6.5” instrument panel is new-age stuff and is far more modern than the buttons, switches and dials used to operate it. Clear, easy to read and with several options of what and how the information is displayed. There are hundreds of settings to completely customise the ride best suited to you and the scenario. Everything from suspension set-up, traction control levels and wheelie control to throttle response.
Other Motorcycle Rivals
In its class the following motorcycles are direct competitors of the new BMW S1000RR, namely Ducati Panigale V4, Yamaha R1M, Kwawasaki ZX-10RR and Aprilia RSV4 1100.
| Ducati Panigale V4 | Yamaha R1M | Kawasaki ZX-10RR | Aprilia RSV4 1100RF | |
| Engine | 1103cc, liquid-cooled, 90° V4 | 998cc, liquid-cooled, forward-inclined parallel four | 998cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four | 1078cc, liquid-cooled 65° V4 |
| Power | 211bhp (157.5kW) @ 13,000rpm | 197bhp (147.1kW) @ 13,500rpm | 201bhp (150kW) @ 13,500rpm | 214bhp (159.6kW) @ 13,200rpm |
| Torque | 91.5 lb-ft (124 Nm) @ 10,000rpm | 82.9 lb-ft (112.4 Nm) @ 11,500rpm | 85.4 lb-ft (115.7 Nm) @ 11,000rpm | 90 lb-ft (122Nm) @ 11,000rpm |
| Weight | 198kg (wet) | 201kg (wet) | 206kg (wet) | 199kg (wet) |
| Seat height | 830mm | 860mm | 835mm | 851mm |
| Fuel tank | 16 litres | 17 litres | 17 litres | 18.5 litres |
| Price (from) | +-R312 900.00 | +-R340 000.00 | +-R370 000.00 | +-R370 000.00 |
Pricing, 2020 BMW S1000RR – from R311 400.00 excluding vat for a base model.
Verdict
Although the price tag of the all new RR in all trims levels starts at over R300 000.00 mark, in my opinion it looks like BMW might have achieved success in manufacturing a motorcycle that will take the motorcycling landscapes to the next level. This all new RR might be poised to have the capability to convince any riders that it is worth the hefty price tag, at the same time offering them very high safety levels seemingly nothing bad can happen when they ride it. I can’t wait to jump onto its saddle to put it to thru its paces when demo bikes finally become available hear in South Africa.
For more about the 2020 BMW S1000RR, click here https://www.bmwmotorrad.co.za
Photos credit: BMW Motorrad, for more info click here https://www.bmwmotorrad.com
About the Author…..
Bongi Nkosi
God first, village boy from KwaZulu Natal, a senior road designer/engineer by profession, chairman of South Africa Road Federation Northern Region (SARF), director at Bikers Social Responsibility Foundation NPO, a biker for over 25 years, motorcycle enthusiast, and contributor at Bike Talk SA.
Bongi Nkosi
