BMW S 1000 RR unveiled at Monza

BMW has officially launched the production version of its S 1000 RR superbike at Monza.

Featuring an in-line four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, which weights just 59.8kg, BMW claims a whopping peak horsepower of 193hp at 13,000rpm, and 112Nm of torque at 9750rpm.

Following the example set by the BMW F1 engines, the S 1000 RR features titanium valves and very small and light cam followers. It will rev to a maximum of 14,200rpm.

BMW quotes a dry weight of 183kg, and a wet weight of 204kg - which increases to 206.5kg with Race ABS.

Race ABS, weighing just 2.5kg, is available as an option direct from the factory, and it can also be joined by Dynamic Traction Control (DTC). The S 1000 RR is the only sportsbike featuring both high-tech systems.

There are also various riding modes available at the touch of a button for wet surfaces; regular road requirements; race tracks with sports tyres; and race tracks with slicks. These can be used in conjunction with Race ABS and DTC.

Other factory options include HP Gearshift Assist for shifting up clutch-less without the slightest interruption of power, and also an anti-theft system. Special equipment (accessories) includes bags, a race stand, windshields, levers and carbon bits and pieces.

The 4-2-1 exhaust system is made from stainless steel, and features two fully controlled interference pipe butterflies housed in connection pipes for the outer and inner manifolds.

As a function of various parameters such as engine speed and the position of the throttle butterfly, an adjuster opens or closes these flaps, allowing exhaust gas to flow freely between the two manifolds or, conversely, interrupting the flow of gas. This has the effect of reducing exhaust gas counter-pressure.

There are also two fully controlled three-way catalytic converters.

Aluminium adorns the S 1000 RR, including the tank, frame, swingarm and 10-spoke cast wheels. The sub-frame is alloy.

The frame is made from four separate castings, while the engine also serves as a load-bearing element.

The front brakes are top-shelf Brembo radials. Other technical highlights include:

o Engine output 193hp at 13,000 rpm, peak torque 112Nm at 9750rpm
o Best power-to-weight ratio in class
o Optional Race ABS, weighing just 2.5kg
o Optimum gas dosage combined with maximum functional reliability ensured by E-gas, incorporating two bowden cables (opening and closing cable) leading to the throttle butterfly adjuster
o New, clearly defined, simple and straightforward options to adjust the suspension and running gear
o Multi-functional instrument cluster with racing features such as a lap timer. The rider is able to set all functions directly from the handlebar
o New generation of switches with optimised ergonomics
o Supreme aerodynamics and sporting ergonomics ideal for both the tall and short rider

Colours are Mineral Silver, Grey or Acid Green, all in metallic. The factory superbike livery of white, blue and red is also available at an extra cost.

The planned retail introduction of the S 1000 RR in Australia is during the first quarter of 2010, with price to be announced.