BMW unveils superbike

BMW's new head, Hendrik von Kuenheim, recently unveiled the firm's superbike prototype at a function in Europe, while announcing ambitious expansion plans fort he firm.

Called the S1000 RR, the litre bike runs an across the frame four with some "special features" in the cylinder head. Exactly what is open to debate, though we would not be overly surprised to see the adoption something exotic like pneumatic valve actuation.

BMW is playing its cards very close to its chest on this bike, refusing to reveal too much detail at this stage, though we do know the chassis is relatively conventional (the Duolever was judged as being a little too bulky for this use), but the powerplant is likely to contain a few surprises. What we do know is the machine will come with traction control.

The first 1000 street versions of the machine will be made available by the end of 2009, allowing the company to enter superbike racing in partnership with motorsport specialist Alpha for 2010.

Von Keunheim said the company had no illusions about how fierce and experienced the competition is. He acknowledged the closest competition have a huge head start, but that the rewards are significant. "Today sales in the 1,000-cc class amount to some 100,000 units worldwide. The vast majority of these motorcycles goes to the USA and Europe. And the four large Japanese manufacturers account for about 85 per cent of the market," he said.

"BMW Motorrad is looking at a long-term involvement in this segment. Clearly, that means we must speak the language of the segment and follow the usual market standards. And indeed - we are confident that we will set new benchmarks in this scene, winning over an appropriate market share."

Whatever happens, it won't be dull.