BMW M 1000 R: bikesales Bike of the Year 2023 finalist

It took nearly 50 years, but BMW finally decided to apply its high-performance M designation to its motorcycle range in 2021 with the release of the M 1000 RR superbike.

Now, in 2023, BMW has offered up a second dedicated M model in the form of the mouth-watering M 1000 R naked bike. And this machine gives punters a far more accessible option in the M range.

While the M RR is stunning, it is also very expensive and perhaps out of reach for the average motorcyclist. The M single R, on the other hand, drops the price by almost $30k and is far more user-friendly for everyday riding on public roads.

The M 1000 R is also a gem because it improves greatly on the standard S 1000 R. Horsepower fiends complained that the S 1000 R lacked the performance and technology of BMW’s RR superbikes. The M 1000 R addresses those concerns with beefed up power figures, ShiftCam technology, and a huge list of high-end components.

The M 1000 R is wickedly fast, but it isn’t untameable. The second BMW M model will appeal to a broad spectrum of motorcyclists who want a high-performance machine that they can still ride to work on. The upright ride position is comfortable, and the safety technology is class leading.

And from an aesthetic point of view, the M 1000 R has cool-factor in spades. Once upon a time, BMW motorcycles were not considered trendy or exciting. But that has changed, and the Munich firm is now producing some really eye-catching machines.

The M 1000 R is stylish, a little bonkers, and adorned in a lot of bling. That is enough to make even the most conservative riders a little twitchy. We’re not 18 years old anymore, but this is the kind of bike that kids would hang up on their bedroom wall – even if it will be some years before they can afford one.

BMW lists the M 1000 R at $32,290 plus on road costs. That means you should be able to ride it off the dealership floor for a tad under $35k. Meanwhile, the M 1000 RR superbike checks in at $59,990 plus on-road costs. That is quite the case for the M single R.  

The news gets even better for prospective M single R customers – most of the bike’s best features are included as standard. BMW is notorious for emptying wallets with a dizzying array of optional extras and features, but the M 1000 R price tag encompasses everything you need.

But that’s not to say you can’t add even more to it. For an extra $6900, you can equip your bike with the M Competition package. The Comp pack includes a long list of irresistible billet and carbon parts, as well as a GPS lap trigger, an M Endurance Chain, and the beautiful M carbon wheels. It isn’t essential, but if you’ve got the cash, it is well worth it.

bikesales Editor Dylan Ruddy tested the BMW M 1000 R back in September and was blown away by the machine’s engine and handling performance, and its high-end luxury styling.  

“The M 1000 R is a spectacular motorcycle,” he said. "It is exhilarating, luxurious, and high tech. Go and have a ride on one. You’ll thank us.”

He continued: “It starts with the aesthetics, which scream premium style and performance. Then add the brilliant engine, refined chassis and suspension, and elaborate technology, and you have a bike that is very hard to criticise.

“Put simply, this is superbike-level performance and spec in an accessible naked bike package. And it’s bloody brilliant. Does M stand for masterpiece? There is a good chance.”

Price: from $32,290 plus on-road costs
Engine: 999cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder with ShiftCam
Output: 210hp (154kW) at 13,750rpm, 113Nm at 11,100rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Weight: 199kg (wet)
Seat height: 830mm
Fuel capacity: 16.5 litres