2018 EICMA: BMW S 1000 RR
A complete revamp for the Bavarian rocketship, as BMW also announces its return to active world superbike competitionBMW’s all-new S 1000 RR sportsbike has made its debut in Milan, with the company completely revamping the engine and chassis to produce some tasty headline numbers: 207hp (152kW) and a wet weight of 197kg.
The second major update for the S 1000 RR since its debut 10 years ago sees the introduction of BMW’s variable valve ShiftCam technology, which will also appear on the updated R 1250 range.
Engine output has been increased by 8hp (6kW) on the 2019 S 1000 RR, which has four riding modes – Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race – HP Shift Assistant Pro (a bi-directional quickshifter), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and ABS Pro as standard features.
Maximum power arrives at 13,500rpm, and peak torque is 113Nm at 11,000rpm. BMW claims at least 100Nm between 5500 and 14,500rpm.
For those who want to delve deeper, the ‘Pro’ mode offers an additional three riding modes that are freely programmable for DTC, ABS, wheelie detection, torque adjustment and engine braking. Pro mode also offers launch control.
The new S 1000 RR uses a new six-axis sensor cluster.
With the aim of achieving a significant weight reduction, the engine – which is 4kg lighter than its predecessor – in the new RR now has more of a load-bearing function, which BMA calls a Flex Frame design. Electronic suspension is available as an optional equipment item.
With an overall weight reduction of 11kg, BMW has also found savings – other than via the engine – through the rear wheel and exhaust.
Electronic cruise control is an ex-works option, while the S 1000 RR has a 6.5-inch TFT screen with a choice of styles and all-LED lighting.
The two liveries are Racing Red and Motorsport.
BMW Australia is yet to announce an Aussie arrival date.
"Our fascinating brief was to take the predecessor model – which has been a dominating force in all disciplines for 10 years – and significantly improve on its performance,” said Claudio De Martino, Vehicle Technology Team Leader.
“This we translated into straightforward targets: one second faster on the track, more than 10 kg lighter and easier to control. These targets were taken as the basis for every decision. The result is a fascinating new motorcycle that exceeds the targets we set ourselves and will once again set the benchmark.”
BMW also announced in Milan that it will be collaborating with Shaun Muir Racing for a major tilt at the 2019 Superbike World Championship with the new S 1000 RR. The riders will be former world superbike champion Tom Sykes and Marcus Reiterberger.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport will be responsible for the development of engine, electronics, chassis and aerodynamics on the S 1000 RR.
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