BMW S 1000 R motorcycle test

Menus

• Without hesitation
• 4 cylinders in line, 165 hp, 114 Nm, 199 kg, Flex Frame, LED headlight, 14,980 euros
• Discovery
• In the saddle
• In the city
• Motorway and expressways
• Departmental
• On track
• Part-cycle
• Braking
• Comfort / Duo
• Consumption
• The BMW S 1000 R video test
• Conclusion

Without hesitation

4 cylinders in line, 165 hp, 114 Nm, 199 kg, Flex Frame, LED headlight, 14,980 euros

The BMW S 1000 R is the roadster version of the ultra-sporty S1000RR, from which it borrows engine, transmission, chassis and suspension in 2014. Optimized for road use, favoring low and medium speeds, the unit delivers 160 hp at 11,000 rpm for 112 Nm of torque at 9,250 revolutions. The whole sign an immediate success in France where these sports models are particularly appreciated, going up to represent 17% of the segment in 2020. Better still, in 2017, the engine gains 5 horsepower to pass to 165 hp and also gains in torque at 114 Nm. (+2) at 9,250 rpm, while reducing by 2 kg compared to previous vintages.

2021 BMW S 1000 R roadster review

For 2021, BMW Motorrad transcends its roadster, with a whole new aesthetic, more important technology and mechanical improvements for even more pleasure.

So, how does the roadster behave against the sports car, both on the road and on the circuit? The opportunity to test the models both on the road and on the circuit, in Dijon-Prenois and to deliver our verdict after the virolos of the Burgundy countryside and the lines of the Dijon Prenois circuit … bonus video at the end of test.

Discovery

Previously atypical with its asymmetrical fork crown, the BMW S1000R was a barely dressed version of the hypersport with in the end, an almost basic style. What pleased in our regions, where the big cube enthusiast is always quick to undress his streamlined sports car. The novelty is more elegant, now displaying a more refined line, with a family resemblance to the F900R roadster, but in much more bodybuilding.

Framed by aerodynamic appendages, the unique optics with multiple LED reflectors ensure a modern light signature, with optional adaptive lighting in bends. Completely revised, its sides offer a more homogeneous appearance. They dress in fairing with sharp lines and indented surfaces.

The new aesthetic reminds that of the F 900 R, in addition to muscular

The whole gives a more assured build to the machine, inflating its chest. Unchanged, the 16.5-liter tank fits more finely, surrounded by multiple and redesigned covers. It is ahead of a saddle with ergonomic cutouts and an architectural stern cover with complex surfaces. These are now based on a new aluminum mesh rear loop borrowed from the S1000RR.

With the same origin, we find the lightweight aluminum double beam Flexframe frame, relying more on the engine with a more load-bearing function. The Euro5 block of 999 cm3 (80×49.7mm) is reduced by 5 kilos, but hardly changes internally. Its four valves per cylinder are no longer driven by pawls and the ShiftCam variable intake system does not equip the roadster. The boiler retains its values ​​with 165 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm. But above all, 80% of its force is available from 3,000 turns. Note that the 4th, 5th and 6th gears are now longer, standard requires. It is always accompanied by an anti-slip clutch and can be equipped, as an option, with the engine brake torque control system (MSR)..

The 4-cylinder 999 cm3 delivers 165 hp and 114 Nm here

The German artillery is under electronic control with a Ride by Wire throttle control offering three driving modes Rain, Road and Dynamic (Pro mode optional). These, associated with a new inertial unit with 3 axes and 6 directions control the standard assistance: ABS Pro in bends, anti-skid DTC, engine brake adjustment, anti-wheeling and hill start assistance. As an option, it is possible to add the Pro modes, which then provide the engine brake torque regulation (MSR), wheeling system and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) which offers additional assistance during emergency braking. . But also the shifter, unfortunately also optional, invoiced 300 euros.

The roadster receives a new swingarm (origin S1000RR) longer, increasing its wheelbase from 11 mm to 1,450 mm and opens its column angle from 23.1 to 24.2 ° … What to increase its stability, but what about agility ?

The swing arm has been lengthened for more stability

The cycle part does not evolve with a fully adjustable inverted Marzocchi fork of 45 mm deflecting on 130 units. The shock absorber of the same origin and just as adjustable slides over 117 mm. It is further away from the engine in order to reduce overheating. As an option, the DDC system controls these elements, ensuring their adaptive electronic adjustment..

The roadster is fitted with 17-inch 5-spoke rims with Michelin Power GP in 120 and 190 or 200 with the option of M rims: forged or carbon. These wheels are stopped by radial mounted front calipers and 4 pistons clamping 320mm discs. The rear, single piston, bites a 220 mm fret and the whole is partially coupled and under ABS control.

The S1000R is fitted with 5-spoke rims with Michelin Power GP

Another safety feature, the self-retracting LED indicators now also act to warn in the event of emergency braking..

The overall presentation is most rewarding, the S1000R taking care of the adjustment of its elements. In addition, its unit displays flawless surfaces with contrasting colors and the integration of cables or hoses is excellent. Above all, the machine loses weight and only displays 199 kilos. In the ultimate M pack (carbon rims), it is even still 5 kilos less. But 5,345 euros more…

The finishes are more successful than before

In the saddle

More elegant, the S1000R is also more refined in terms of ergonomics. The volumes of his saddle have been refined. Thus, its saddle height of 830 mm (low rider saddle option: 810 mm and high: 850 mm), up by 16 mm, does not affect its accessibility. Sporty, the position is engaged, with a sensitive leg flexion on the back and high controls. The bust therefore naturally tilts forward, placing the wrists in marked support on the large, almost flat hanger with variable diameter. This handlebar is horizontally adjustable over 10 mm.

Obviously, the position is sporty, very supportive on the wrists

In front of you, we find the connected 6.5-inch TFT color screen, from the S1000RR and common with other models of the brand, allowing you to link your smartphone to the machines via Bluetooth via the BMW Connected mobile application. The screen displays all the useful information, or less, relating to the status of the roadster and offers additional functions such as GPS navigation, music playback and telephony…

The free BMW Motorrad Connected app also offers convenient arrow navigation directly via the TFT display. Everything is controlled by the inevitable BMW rotary dial, very effective for navigating the many functions. Reproach on the other hand, the panel does not display by default the reminder of the level of the engaged assistants.

The new 6.5-inch TFT screen is also taken from the RR

In the city

The S1000R is an everyday sportswoman and its rapid and lively breathing quickly betrays its ambitions. Devoid of inertia, the four-cylinder climbs vigorously and barks furiously. For flexible evolutions, the Rain mode is the most suitable, the mechanics then better tamed to circulate in town. Particularly available, the unit resumes without difficulty at the limits of the idle speed at 40 km / h on the last report. The injection demonstrates great precision, leaving perfect control of the acceleration. Equally pleasant, the assisted clutch contributes to the overall ease of handling while the correct turning radius ensures the roadster an acceptable urban daily life. More resting on the ground, the S1000R can be taken with ease and is placed in the same way between vehicles. However, this is not her favorite universe and the Bavarian pawns to show more.

The engine is very flexible and can resume as soon as 40 km / h in the last gear.

Motorway and expressways

Lively and full, the S1000R’s four-cylinder pushes viciously and flies towards the red zone. Our test machine equipped with the shifter adds up the gears and we quickly reach speeds largely outside the code of good driving behavior … Not very corporate all this. But given the air pressure on the cervicals, we quickly come back to legality. Just enough to note the blur of the mirrors. The block then displays 5,500 revolutions / minute on the last gear. In search of living space, the roadster relaunched hostilities without difficulty, but began to vibrate noticeably around 7,000 laps. A sensation that only grows thereafter. The seat is particularly swarming and so is your license. You might as well leave this runway to test other battlefields.

The Bavarian starts to vibrate from 7,000 laps, but holds the 130 km / h 1,500 laps lower in 6th

Departmental

Aggressive from 4,000 laps on the intermediates, the BMW S1000R attacks mercilessly above 6,000. On board, it’s the blitzkrieg with the curves decorating your course. Our Germans in close formation are equipped with forged rims and even carbon for two of them. Enough to make a real difference in dynamics. With reduced gyroscopic forces and lower suspended masses, the roadster further limits the effects of its larger wheelbase and column angle. Especially since thus, they fit 200 mm. The pointed profile of the Michelin also optimizes the general behavior. Thus, in the tight shell, the S1000R shines with its precision when entering a curve and its stability on the angle. It passes all the better the aggressiveness of its mechanics on the asphalt when its 114 Nm of torque surge. Perfectly adjusted, the curves intersect at best around 9,000 laps. Power then surges, releasing 165 Valkyries to the assault. All in a soundtrack to its measure. In a Wagnerian flight amplified by the air box, the German makes her entrails ring and her titanium Akrapovic ring. Under the supervision of its Pro assistants, the machine steers perfectly and leaps towards the next bend..

The S 1000 R shines with its precision and stability in curves

We then grab the lever to offer a powerful deceleration and easily adjustable with a finger. The Munich woman dives without excess into her scabbards controlled by chips. The rear also stiffens and full braking optimizes efficiency. From the tip of the boot, we stack two gears and the S1000R tilts on its trajectory.

Its front axle shows an appreciable rigor in the fast and tight sequences. Neutral, it returns good information and allows excellent entry speed into a curve. However, the agility of the Bavarian mount is not extreme. Responsive to the handlebars and footrests, the machine is more obedient than lively. We then appreciate the good lever arm of the handlebars to help evolutions. Docile, the roadster goes from one angle to another efficiently, but without Latin mastery or Japanese elegance.

Responsive, the S 1000 R remains very manoeuvrable and is not too lively

On a good surface, its rigorous cycle part allows it to slip through the curves at a goose step. It is less obvious on the bumpy where its suspension is a little too firm and especially less adjusted with the movements of the front. A constant that we then find on the circuit … We put on the wetsuit…

On track

On the Dijon turnstile, the S1000R takes on a more radical dimension. Thrown at full speed, 260 km / h, we take the brakes to tackle the double right of Villeroy. This long downhill curve once again demonstrates the German’s stability on the angle. We go towards the S des Sablières to discover the blind left and downhill from the Bretelle. Technical, this open pin allows the S1000R to assert its rigor and its revival qualities. The appreciable extension of the mechanics optimizes the performance of the third and fourth gear at full load. A precise and vigorous radial stroke before attacking the parabolic. Unlike the Bretelle, this curve goes up devilishly and the German struggles to keep her front wheel on the ground. Electronics are good and contain salvation to heaven.

On the track, the S1000R is even more radical and lets its 165 horsepower express itself.

The left turns 5 followed by the Gorgeolles curve allow good acceleration on the angle. Two connections make the S1000R dance before throwing itself to the right with little visibility on the bend of the Combe. It’s not easy to enter it serenely with this roadster footwork. But it goes without worries and you can prepare for the Pouas toboggan. Then commanding the climb to the pit straight, this long double curve is made for big hearts. Constantly on the maximum angle we then revive the mechanics towards the red zone in the click of the shifter and the warlike wails of the air box.

The Dijon Prenois circuit is undoubtedly a favorable ground for the German roadster

Certainly, the Prenois track highlights the BMW S1000R. Fast, with its long, fairly loose curves and downforce, it showcases the rogue and mechanical performance of the roadster to the propeller. A tight baffle or steeper angle changes would have been instructive.

Part-cycle

Rigorous, precise, the S1000R of our test benefits from piloted suspensions optimizing its evolutions. Rigid and docile, the German likes to be taken with vigor and willpower. Easy on plain coating, it appreciates less the mix of patched bitumen.

Electronic suspensions are less comfortable on damaged asphalt

Braking

Perfectly calibrated for the roadster, the system ensures decelerations always under control. The front calipers deliver impressive force. The opposing gripper provides effective modulation in curves, but its control does not provide optimal feel.

The front brake offers good power, but the rear lacks feeling

Comfort / Duo

Dedicated to sporty driving, the S1000R hardly knows the word comfort. She prefers the term efficiency. Thin saddle, dynamic suspensions and attacking position offer a gait more suitable for time-saving tactics than for country walks. The duo, of course! With two motorcycles.

It’s sporty, very sporty, the duo is difficult to imagine

Consumption

With 6.6 liters raised on average during dynamic driving, the 230 km of autonomy is easily achievable. And much more in smoother evolutions. If you can or manage to contain your urge to always open wide…

The BMW S 1000 R video test

Conclusion

With its more attractive appearance and enhanced electronics, the new BMW S1000R optimizes the efficiency of its upgrades. Rigorous, perfectionist, the German lacks a bit of life. We would have liked a little more liveliness on board, earthiness. The Bavarian prefers to play on a less bohemian board. With talent.

Priced at 14,980 €, the novelty increases by only 590 euros, below the 15,000 mark but then devoid of the shifter, which nevertheless suits him so well. The Shifter Edition version, € 15,280, will bring you this equipment. Finally, multiple packs allow you to enhance your frame.

The BMW S 1000 R

We will oppose him the Triumph Speed ​​Triple RS, € 16,250.00, with the captivating three cylinders and the irreproachable cycle part. Ditto for the Aprilia Tuono and its V4, at 17,999. Same fight with the Austrian KTM 1290 Super Duke R at 18,199 € However, these last two are clearly more powerful.

Homogeneous, more attractive and always well finished, the BMW S1000R is modernized and sharpens its weapons to face, in all rigor, its more sassy opponents. Order and obedience for unbridled freedom.

Strong points

• More elegant aesthetics
• Explosive nature and engine availability
• Rigorous part-cycle
• Extended electronics
• TFT Instruments
• Suspension adjustable in any direction
• Electronic assistance
• Powerful and flexible braking

Weak points

• No serial quickshifter
• Lack of chosen level of assistance
• Agility without liveliness
• Damping on bumpy
• Vibrations present
• Saddle too firm

The technical sheet of the BMW S 1000 R 2021

Test conditions

• Itinerary: winding roads with variable surfaces, dry.
• Weather forecast: sunny, from 7 ° to 15 ° C
• Mileage: 100 km road
• Problem encountered: ras

Test equipment

• Scorpion Exo-R1 Air Helmet
• Dafy All One Apex Jacket
• Vanucci Armalite Jeans
• DXR Curbstone Gloves
• Vanucci Tiffoso Boots

Related articles

• Suzuki GSX-S 1000 test

  Authentic avant-garde 4 cylinders of 999 cm3, 152 hp, 106 Nm, 214 kg full made, 19 liter tank 45 years old ! The GSX saga began in 1976 with the GS 750,…

• Yamaha MT-07 2021 motorcycle test

  Generic anti-depressant Twin CP2, 689 cm3, 73.4 hp, 67 Nm, 184 kg, 7,299 euros The face of bikers in the medium-displacement segment, the Yamaha MT-07…

• Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R KRT motorcycle test

  An integer character 4 cylinders in line, 998 cm3, 203 hp, 114.9 Nm, 206 kg all full facts, 18,099 euros. Nice surprise for me to find the Kawasaki…

• Honda CB 1000 R test

  Honda renews its big roadster. Retro, sporty, or both ? 4 cylinders in line, 998 cm3, 145 hp at 10,500 rpm, 104 Nm at 8,250 rpm, 212 kilos with full…

• Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX motorcycle test

  Compromise without compromise 4 cylinders of 1,043 cm3, 142 hp and 111 Nm, 235 kg, from 14,349 euros In 2010, Kawasaki presented its first Z1000SX, a…

• BMW R 1200 R Classic motorcycle test

  Retro kaiserin for modern fun 1923: BMW markets its first R 32s … This 18th letter of the alphabet will henceforth be used to name the machines powered…

• Kawasaki Z1000 SX motorcycle test

  The Z sport-touring, Super exciting ! Two-day trial in Spain in Malaga Ten months after the official launch of the nasty Z 1000 roadster, the Akashi firm…

• MV Agusta Brutale 1000 Serie Oro test

  0 to 100 km / h in 2.9 seconds! Muscular test at over 300 km / h ! 4 cylinders of 998 cm3, 208 hp and 115 Nm, 186 kg dry, 300 copies, 42,990 euros At the…

• Yamaha Tracer 9 and Tracer 9 GT motorcycle test

  Cross-country sprinters 3 cylinders in line, 889 cm3, 119 hp and 93 Nm, 213 kg full made, from 11,499 euros Road trail, sport-touring, road … the names…

• Suzuki Katana motorcycle test

  Japanese legend, successor to the GSX1100S Katana 4 cylinders in line, 999 cm3, 150 hp, 108 Nm, 215 kg full made, 13,699 euros The Katana is a very old…