The BMW S 1000 RR

The BMW S 1000 RR is a high-performance sports motorcycle initially developed by BMW Motorrad to compete in the Superbike World Championship, but it is now a commercially produced superbike known for its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and track-ready capabilities.

Key Features and Technology

• Engine: It is powered by a 999 cc water/oil-cooled in-line four-cylinder, four-stroke engine.² Recent models feature BMW ShiftCam technology, which is a variable intake camshaft control system that optimizes performance across the entire rev range.³
• Performance:
  • Rated Output: Up to ⁴$154 \text{ kW } (210 \text{ hp})$ at ⁵$13,750 \text{ rpm}$ (varies slightly by model year and market).⁶
  • Max. Torque: Around ⁷$113 \text{ Nm}$ at ⁸$11,000 \text{ rpm}$.⁹
• Electronics & Rider Aids: The S 1000 RR is packed with sophisticated electronic systems, including:
  • BMW Motorrad Race ABS (including Cornering ABS/ABS Pro).¹⁰
  • Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with a new Slide Control function for controlled drifts.¹¹
  • Riding Modes Pro (typically including Rain, Road, Dynamic, Race, and Race Pro modes) for customizable performance settings.¹²
  • Shift Assistant Pro for clutchless upshifts and downshifts.¹³
  • 6.5″ TFT display with connectivity.¹⁴
• Chassis and Aerodynamics:
  • Features a flexible aluminum bridge-type frame with a co-supporting engine.¹⁵
  • The latest models often feature redesigned fairings with winglets (from the M 1000 RR) to generate downforce, improving stability and braking.¹⁶
  • Optional Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) semi-active electronic suspension is available.¹⁷

Generations

The S 1000 RR has undergone several significant updates since its introduction:

1. First Generation (2009–2011/2014): Introduced with asymmetrical headlights, it was groundbreaking for being one of the first production superbikes with standard ABS and Dynamic Traction Control.¹⁸
   • Minor updates occurred between 2012 and 2014.
2. Second Generation (2015–2018): Received a major update, including a more powerful engine (approx.¹⁹ $199 \text{ hp}$), a new frame, revised geometry, and more advanced electronics.²⁰ The asymmetrical headlights were reversed in orientation.²¹
3. Third Generation (2019–Present): A complete redesign with an all-new engine featuring ShiftCam technology, a lighter “Flex Frame,” symmetric headlights (initially dropping the signature asymmetry), and further advancements in electronics.²² Subsequent updates in this generation have added features like winglets and the M Quick-action Throttle.²³

The S 1000 RR also has a more powerful, track-focused sibling, the BMW M 1000 RR, which features more performance upgrades and specialized components.²⁴