BMW S1000RR

Taking superbike efficiency to new extremes

The S1000RR was a proper shock when it was first unveiled back in 2009, not least because its asymmetrical face divided opinion with polar separation between squinty-eye lovers and haters. But for 2019 it’s a far more symmetrical affair and has taken another huge step forward in performance as it bids to stay at the very sharp end of road and track superbike dominance. BMW targeted a serious boost in track performance for 2019 (ahead of announcing they’re returning to racing), along with a 10kg reduction in mass and improvements making it even more controllable. And they say they’ve achieved all three goals. The all-new engine looks like a virtuoso performance. It develops 203.8bhp at 13,500rpm and 83.3ftlb at 11,000rpm, and now boasts the same ShiftCam tech which debuted on the GS last month. This means an undetectable shift between two dramatically different cam profiles when you ask for full power, altering valve timing and lift for an even more aggressive punch, while also improving mid-range torque. The result is an engine that’s more brutal and friendly at the same time. There’s also a new FlexFrame chassis that’s slimmer and transfers more load-bearing capacity to the engine while also saving 1.3kg over the previous model. The suspension has been completely redesigned, too, and offers the option for Dynamic Damping Control semiactive intervention.

There are four riding modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race) plus the option of Pro Modes, which allow owners to alter the characteristics of the throttle response and levels of safety interventions; all of which can be viewed through the new 6.5in, full-colour, multi-screen TFT dash with different screens. Better looking, better performing, and dripping in new tech... what’s not to like?