BMW RELEASE S 1000 XR

Described by BMW as an "adventure sport" bike, the S 1000 XR's mix of supersports performance, touring ability and high levels of rider comfort make it something of a 'real roads superbike'; one that should appeal to riders who want a machine they can enjoy on the highway, country roads and long tours, as well as the daily commute.

Performance and Practicality

Powered by the same inline four-cylinder engine as the rest of the 'S 1000' family, the XR is offered in the same state of tune as the S 1000 R; meaning maximum power of 118kW and torque of 112Nm. The abundant torque in the low and mid rpm range means the XR has the grunt to carry a pillion and negotiate twisty country backroads with ease.

An aluminium perimeter frame follows the established S 1000 pattern, with the engine as a stressed member, but chassis geometry has been redefined to suit the XR. The double-sided swingarm is also aluminium alloy, with preload adjustment.

The XR's greater ground clearance and softer springing in the suspension (20 to 30mm more travel) is designed to suit b-grade roads. Suspension is electronically controlled, supported by Automatic Stability Control (ASC) as standard.

The fairing and built-in adjustable screen make the S 1000 XR a functional touring machine, too, with the ability to take a top box, tank bag and panniers (available separately from the BMW Motorrad Accessories range) for abundant carrying capacity.

Riding assistance and tech

Two built-in riding modes - 'Road' and 'Rain' - are rider-selectable, adjusting throttle response and reducing or eliminating front wheel lift on acceleration. Disengageable ABS is standard, but this can be augmented by ABS Pro, which improves braking performance when banking. ABS Pro is part of the optional 'Pro riding modes' package, which also adds Gear Shift Assist Pro (for clutchless shifting), Dynamic Traction Control (with banking sensor), Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment and two additional, performance-oriented riding modes: 'Dynamic' and 'Dynamic Pro' that provide instant throttle response, the latter mode also disengaging the ABS and traction control.

Ergonomics include a more upright rider position, slim cross-section, wide handlebar and higher seat, while a shallower steering head angle, longer front wheel castor and longer swingarm (compared to the S 1000 R), result in a platform with increased traction, handling and directional stability that's more suited for touring. Lower and variable-height saddles are available as optional extras.

Control Centre

The S 1000 XR's instrument cluster consists of an LCD with analogue revcounter and displays for 15 different elements; everything from speed, riding mode and engine temperature, to average fuel consumption, two different trip meters and even a lap timer. The shift light is adjustable for brightness and rev speed, while touring functionality sees the addition of a 12V power socket to the cockpit area.

Styling and Design

Described by BMW Motorrad as a 'crossover', there are elements of tourers, sportsbikes and BMW's traditional GS off-roaders in the XR's design. The front 'beak' is an obvious GS-inspired feature, while the slimline tail is more in the vein of the S 1000 RR, as are the asymmetrical side panels and front air intake.

Headlight reflectors are asymmetrical, as per BMW S 1000 tradition, but housings and surrounding plastics are symmetrical in a nod to the design of BMW's touring bikes. Interestingly, the tail light is part of the licence plate hanger, not the tail unit itself. BMW says the location prevents water and dirt spray.

Red or white colour schemes are available, both featuring abundant use of grained matt-finish black plastic as both a practical and design element.

"The new S 1000 XR will deliver more riding thrills than ever and introduce BMW Motorrad to a whole new audience," said BMW Motorrad Australia's General Manager, Tony Sesto. "Its unique character blends sporty performance with an adventurous spirit, and it's another model we are proud to present to two-wheel enthusiasts."

In BMW Motorrad dealerships now, the S 1000 XR is available in a choice of two colours - Racing Red and Light White - at a recommended list price of $22,190. See your BMW Motorrad dealer for more details.

bmwmotorrad.com.au

BMW S1000 XR - key specs

Engine: 999cc 16V DOHC inline four-cylinder

Bore/Stroke: 80mm/49.7mm

Max Power: 118kW (160hp) at 11,000rpm

Max Torque: 112Nm (83 lb/ft) at 9,250rpm

0-100km/h: 3.1 seconds

Top Speed: 200 km/h+

Economy: 5.4lt/100km (best)

Transmission: 6-speed

Frame: Aluminium perimeter

Front Suspension: 46mm USD tele, adjustable - 150mm travel