DELIVERING new levels of performance, capability and standard equipment, the 2021 BMW S 1000 R has launched in Australia, powered by an acceleration-optimised 121kW engine. It’s now lighter than ever before too.
Tipping the scales at a wet weight of 199kg (S 1000 R) and 194kg (S 1000 R M Sport), the new S 1000 R range combines this with ABS Pro, dynamic traction control, and full LED lighting.
Based on the S 1000 RR powerplant, the in-line four-cylinder engine of the S 1000 R offers maximum torque of 114Nm, with a wider and fuller engine speed range designed to achieve improved rideability, with a markedly linear torque curve.
In addition to a smoother, self-reinforcing anti-hopping clutch, it’s equipped with engine drag torque control for the first time. This new addition prevents the rear wheel from slipping as a result of abrupt throttling or downshifting, thanks to its electronic actuation.
The chassis was also subjected to significant weight reduction measures during development to improve performance and engagement. The frame and swingarm, inspired again by the RR, have been made considerably lighter than the previous model.
At the same time, the engine in the Flex Frame takes on a much greater supporting function than before. The new frame offers further benefits due to its narrow design, reducing width in the knee contact area.
This enables a more relaxed riding position, with even more freedom of movement. The spring strut with Full Floater Pro kinematics is now located significantly further away from the swing axis and engine to reduce waste heat retention.
As a result, even more stable temperature behaviour and more constant damping response is provided. In combination with the new swingarm, which has its roots in motorsport, the S 1000 R achieves enhanced tyre grip while lowering tyre wear.
The new S 1000 R is also equipped with banking angle optimisation and three riding modes; Rain, Road and Dynamic. The fully configurable Dynamic Pro mode is also available as part of the Riding Modes Pro option.
Riding Modes Pro adds the engine brake function in conjunction with engine drag torque control, and the Power Wheelie function. Dynamic brake control additionally supports the rider during emergency braking manoeuvres.
The new S 1000 R takes on the instrument cluster of the RR, delivering the rider the best possible readability and an extended range of functions and information via a 6.5-inch high definition screen.
The rider can choose between customised screen displays for various purposes. The Pure Ride screen, for example, provides all necessary information for normal road riding, while a further Core screen shows displays for banking angle, deceleration and traction control.
A Bluetooth smartphone interface, which allows app-based arrow navigation, is included as standard. The TFT display is operated comfortably from the handlebars using the multi-controller, while the optional M package provides a third Core screen with a lap timer.
The lighting units are based on state-of-the-art LED technology. These include the new, striking LED main headlamp with optimised low beam and high beam light. The newly designed turn indicator and rear lights also make use of the same technology.
The rear turn indicators feature an integrated tail/brake light function. Enhanced safety when riding at night is ensured by the adaptive turning light, which is a component of Headlight Pro.
The S 1000 R also clearly borrows from its super sports counterpart, the S 1000 RR, while also placing the emphasis on its character as a dynamic roadster. More than ever, the ‘tail up – nose down’ look gives the S 1000 R an eye-catchingly dynamic visual impact.
The colour line-up also highlights its sporty, dynamic appearance. In addition to Racing Red non-metallic, the S 1000 R can be specified in Hockenheim Silver Metallic and the Light White/M Motorsport livery.
The BMW S 1000 R is offered in four levels – S 1000 R, R Sport, R Race and S 1000 R M Sport – with a high level of specification across the model range. Pricing starts from $20,650, with the range topping S 1000 R M Sport pricing starts at $31,990.
All prices are plus on-road costs, and there are a range of accessories available for all models including anti-theft alarms, carbon fibre packages and M packages depending upon model specification.
Further information is available from your local BMW Motorrad dealer.
