If there was one thing that was hard to love about the BMW S 1000 RR, it was its asymmetrical face. Now for 2019, BMW Motorrad have fixed that one gripe with the first BMW Superbike, which features a fresh face for the 2019 model year, plus more!
At 11 kilograms lighter, 6 more horsepower and significantly better looks, there is a lot to like about BMW Motorrad's 2019 S 1000 RR.
Now in its third incarnation since the debut of BMW's first ever Superbike in 2009, the new S 1000 RR is almost a complete top to bottom overhaul of the 2018 bike. With a brief to not only increase the performance of the S 1000 RR, but also to make the new RR at least one second faster than its predecessor, create a more user-friendly design and ensure it offered maximum controllability and ridability.
Part of how this has been achieved is the implementation of BMW's new ShiftCam Technology which debuted with the 2019 R 1250 GS - essentially a new form of variable valve timing which varies the valve timings and valve strokes on the intake side which is actuated by an electronic module inside the cylinder head.
AS a result of teh engine refinements, power now sits at 152kW (207hp) at13,500rpm and is backed by 113Nm of torque at 11,000rpm. BMW also claims that a whopping 100Nm of torque "at least" is available from 5,500 to 14,500rpm.
As part of refinements to the chassis, BMW Motorrad not only redesigned the main frame but adapted the engine to take on more of the load as a stressed member.
According to BMW, part of the requirements in designing the new main frame, in addition to improving ergonomics, was to have the force applied directly to the engine structure via the shortest possible paths.
The next generation of the DDC electronic suspension is available for the new RR as an optional extra. Specially developed for the RR, Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) requires no compromises in terms of suspension set-up. This is made by possible among other things by new valve and control technology. In addition to the DDC, a shim package is also available for selective adaptation when required for what BMW Motorrad deems "ambitious race track riding."
A TFT Dashboard rounds out the electronics suite, allowing access to control the 4 standard rider modes, which can be extended to 7 with an optional Pro Modes system. Other features that come with the "Pro Modes” option are Launch Control for perfect race starts and the configurable Pit Lane Limiter for exact adherence to speeds in the pit lane. Ultra-fast shifting up and down without the clutch is enabled by HP Shift Assistant Pro, which comes as a standard feature.
BMW Motorrad New Zealand has confirmed there is currently no information regarding an ETA for New Zealand for the new S 1000 RR, but as soon as we know otherwise we will be sure to update you.
BMW S 1000 RR HIGHLIGHTS
4kg lighter, newly developed 4-cylinder in-line engine with BMW ShiftCam Technology for variation of valve timings and valve strokes on the intake side.
Increased output and torque: 152kW (207hp) at 13,500 rpm and 113Nm at 11,000 rpm.
At least 100Nm of torque from 5 500 to 14 500 rpm.
Effort-saving, linear torque curve: further improved ridability and controllability due to increased torque in the lower and medium engine speed range.
Newly developed suspension featuring Flex Frame, with the engine taking on more of a load-bearing function.Significantly improved ergonomics due to Flex Frame.
Refined suspension geometry for further improved handling, increased traction and crystal-clear feedback in the threshold range.
Further developed electronic damping adaptation Dynamic Damping Control DDC with new valve generation as an optional equipment item.
New rear wheel suspension weighing 300 g less than before with Full Floater Pro kinematics.Weight reduction of 11 – 14.5 kg to 197 kg when fully fuelled and 193.5 kg with M Package.
New exhaust system weighing some 1.3 kg less, with front silencer.
New 6-axis sensor cluster.
Further developed Dynamic Traction Control DTC as standard
DTC Wheelie Function as standard.Adjustable (+/- shift) DTC Wheelie Function as an optional equipment item.
Engine brake function, adjustable.ABS Pro for increased safety when braking, also in banking position, as standard.
New riding modes “Rain”, “Road”, “Dynamic” and “Race” as standard and “Pro Modes” option with three additional configurable modes “Race Pro 1-3” for optimum individual adaptation to conditions.
Launch Control for perfect starts comes with "Pro Modes" option.
Pit Lane Limiter for precise pit lane speeds also included with the "Pro Modes" option.
Shift Assistant Pro for fast up and down shifting without clutch, standard.Shift pattern can easily be reversed.
Electronic cruise control as an ex works option.
New instrument panel with 6.5-inch screen offering excellent readability and featuring a Pure Ride screen as well as three Core screens.