There are no two ways about it, the 2024 BMW S 1000 XR M Sport is a weapon. One of the most complete motorbikes we have ever tested, it takes all that is good from the S 1000 RR and wraps it in a more user-friendly touring package.
It scores upgrades over its predecessor too, including improved performance, optimised ergonomics, a sleeker design, and more standard and optional features. Our test subject gets additional kit in the form of Dynamic, Touring and Billet packages.
That’s alongside M Sport goodies, a full set of hard panniers, a top box and a tank bag. On the road, the BMW S 1000 XR is an athlete, juiced up with 125kW of power and 114Nm of torque from its inline 999cc in-line four cylinder motor.
Power delivery is very manageable down low, and the S 1000 XR unleashes all of its animal instincts higher in the rev range, bringing the athletic touring Bavarian to a new level. Pro shift assist works seamlessly too.
Up and down shifts via the quick shifter are efficient and smooth through the entire six speed gearbox. Like most BMW motorbikes, everything is precise and controlled, with just the right amount of electronic assistance to benefit the rider without being obtrusive.
On this particular bike you’ll find ABS, dynamic traction control, cruise control, LED lighting and keyless ignition. There are four ride modes, including Rain, Road, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro. Selecting the latter brings the Bimmer fully to life.
The Akrapovič slip-on exhaust begins to bark and burble on downshifts for a true performance experience. Each of the riding modes directly influences suspension settings and throttle mapping. On bumpy back roads we found that Road softened the ride nicely.
In better tarmac environments, we dialled up the performance, with Dynamic Pro stiffening the fully adjustable suspension (with 150mm travel both front and rear), and letting all of the S 1000 XR’s inner aggression loose.
An upside-down 45mm diameter telescopic fork features up front, complete with electronic self-adjusting rebound/compression damping (Dynamic ESA). The rear features an aluminium double-sided swing-arm, central spring strut, and electronic preload adjuster.
It utilises electronic self-adjusting rebound/compression damping too. Braking is impressive too, although not at quite the same level as the range topping M 1000 XR Competition. The front features twin 320mm discs with a 4-piston fixed calliper.
It offers good feel and plenty of bite. At the rear is a 265mm single disc with 2-piston floating calliper. It does a more than adequate job. The S 1000 XR utilises an aluminium composite bridge frame with a partially self-supporting engine.
Tipping the scales at 227kg with a fuel tank of fuel, it’s a reasonably light machine. It’s also very tall, with a standard seat height of 850mm. That’s a long way down if you’re on the shorter side, but there is the option of a lower 820mm seat height.
If you’re a lanky basketball player, you can even opt for the higher 870mm setup. Some potential buyers may instead opt for BMW’s R 1300 GS as it has an adaptive ride height, although the S 1000 XR’s more road focused persona allows for more aggressive riding.
Fuel economy is a decent 6.2-litres/100km, even with more enthusiastic riding, meaning a full tank is good for around 300km. The control centre of the S 1000 XR is a 6.5-inch TFT screen, which is super intuitive and easy to toggle through using a control wheel.
The display is uncluttered, housing all rider information you might need, including such things as tyre pressure and lean angles. The buttons aren’t backlit, making it a little difficult to find them during night riding.
LED lighting across the bike works brilliantly though, offering plenty of illumination when required. It’s a well designed bike, all things considered, and focuses on practicality. It’s no super model, but it certainly delivers a combination that works, and works well.
The 2024 BMW S 1000 XR M Sport is available in Light White/M Motorsport on the XR M Sport (as tested) which is priced from $37,740 ride away. The panniers, top box and tank bag add an additional $3,150 to that.
Backed by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with the option for three and 5-year service packages, it makes a very compelling case against rivals like the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX and Ducati Multistrada as the perfect sports touring companion.
Offering unadulterated sports performance at a reasonable price, it’s hard to go past, especially when its handling is good enough to keep up with most sports bikes, and its loaded with practicality and versatility.
You can find out more about the 2024 BMW S 1000 XR M Sport by visiting the BMW Motorrad Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership.
Our test bike was provided by BMW Motorrad Australia for independent review purposes.
