BMW Motorrad has unveiled the latest iteration of its premier superbike. Now called the M 1000 RR (M), BMW is ratcheting its street hyperbike up another level. The new machine is already on BMW’s website. But unfortunately, BMW has yet to post all the information you might want to know about the new bike.
What does come through is that the M is their most track-focused street bike ever. And, if the level of available standard level of equipment is not enough for you, BMW also offers an optional “Competition Package” to make the machine even more race-oriented. So let’s take a look at what BMW has told us so far.
M engine
The M uses a 999cc water/oil-cooled, fuel-injected, variable intake, inline four-cylinder engine producing a claimed 205 hp at 13,000 rpm with 83 lb-ft of torque at 11,000 rpm. BMW says that the powerplant can propel the bike to a maximum speed of 189mph.
The new M 1000 RR circulating on a racetrack.
Reduced weight and mass reduction in the engine is also another M priority. Engine improvements include new two-ring forged Mahle pistons that are 12 grams lighter, a new spring assembly, “slimmer and six percent lighter” rocker arms, 85 gram lighter Pankl titanium connecting rods, and titanium exhaust valves. All these changes contribute to reduce mass, weight, and increase engine efficiency. The mass reduction program allows BMW to increase max rpm by 500 to 15,100.
To help the engine breathe, BMW says that it fully machines the intake ports and uses a new duct geometry. ShiftCam technology is also used to vary valve timing and lift.
According to BMW, the M engine is more powerful than its predecessor from 6,000 to 15,100 rpm, which is the range most relevant for “race track driving dynamics.”
The M 1000 RR uses winglets to create additional downforce.
Looking down at the winglets.
M Chassis
The M engine is housed in a cast-aluminum bridge-type frame and acts as a stressed member. The front suspension is comprised of an upside-down Marzocchi fork with 45mm stanchions. It is adjustable for compression, rebound, and preload and provides 4.7 inches of travel.
At the opposite end of the machine, an aluminum swingarm connects to an unnamed shock (BMW branded?) that is adjustable for compression and rebound, as well as preload. All up, the rear suspension gives you 4.6 inches of travel.
BMW claims the chassis and geometry of the M are “trimmed for the racetrack.” But frankly, some of the data is confusing. It’s almost like something has been lost in translation. Or, that several different people collaborated on the wording without thinking about the overall message. Here’s what they have to say about the bike’s riding feedback:
The drivability, braking and starting pitch compensation provide enhanced feeling for the front and rear wheel. Even on country roads. The longer wheelbase makes the M RR much more comfortable. The easily adjustable pivot point has been rescaled and enlarged. And the new rear axle – also thanks to the adapted brake piston – allows quick rear-wheel changes. This is where the pit lane meets your will to perfection.
Braking
At the front of the bike, braking is handled by two “M Brake” branded, 4-piston fixed calipers grabbing 320 mm rotors. At the rear, a single 220mm disc is grasped by a 2-piston caliper. According to BMW, the brakes on the M are the “best brakes for BMW yet.” The German manufacturer says that they:
“…have optimized the fluid balance for greater pressure point stability. Together with the ideally combined operating element and saddle, this results in outstanding brake stability and feedback, as well as superb coordination with the RACE ABS.”
The M 1000 RR uses BMW branded brake calipers and a Marzocchi fork.
That’s a lot of words to say that the brakes work well. But this is a rollout after all.
Weight
To reduce unsprung weight, the M comes with BMW’s M branded carbon fiber wheels. These wheels are 1.7 kg lighter than the S 1000 RR’s wheelset.
With all the weight-reducing refinements, the new M comes in at 375 pounds dry. But fully fueled and ready for the street or track, its weight increases to 423 pounds.
BMW did not forget about aerodynamics and is introducing its “M Winglets.” Located to the side and just under the bike’s headlights, BMW has attached a pair of downforce producing “carbon” winglets.
The M 1000 RR’s quick shifter and a sprinkling of carbon fiber parts.
These winglets produce a claimed 35.9 pounds of downforce at the bike’s maximum speed of 189 mph. In concert with the bike’s high windscreen, BMW says that the combination allows you to convert more power into forward momentum.
Standard features
BMW lists a raft of standard features and equipment, including a host of electronic riding aids, with some aimed specifically at track use.
As has become almost a requirement, standard rider aids include:
- Seven riding modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic, Race, Race Pro 1-3)
- BMW Motorrad Race ABS and ABS Pro
- Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) +/- Shift
- Hill Start Control (HSC) Pro
- Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
- Shift Assist Pro
The view from the M 1000 RR’s cockpit.
Also, BMW includes several aids that are more focused on the bike’s track capability. The more track-focused aids include:
- Pit-Lane-Limiter
- Launch Control
- Wheelie Control
- Slide Control
M Competition Package
As stated earlier, BMW also offers optional equipment for the new M in its “M Competition Package.” The M Competition Package includes competition-oriented components that include specialized M-specific parts:
- Brake Lever
- Clutch Lever
- Brake Lever Guard
- Rider Footrest
- Engine Protector
- Carbonparts Swing arm in anodized aluminum, which is 7.8 ounces lighter than the standard unit.
- GPS-Lap timer (requires an activation code)
- Endurance chain
- Passenger Package, including a Passenger Cover.
Convenience
While the new bike is supposed to be a track weapon, BMW also includes features that can make day-to-day riding more comfortable and enjoyable. Some of the standard convenience features include:
- Higher windshield
- 6.5″ TFT-Display
- Heated Grips
- Cruise Control
- LED-Headlights, Taillight, and Turn Signals
The rather menacing face of the BMW M 1000 RR.
Pricing
BMW has yet to release pricing for the new M or the M Competition Package. But as with most “premium” machines, you can bet that they won’t be inexpensive. If you would like more information on the new M, you canexpress your early interest in the machine on their website.
All photo credit: BMW Motorrad
