BMW S 1000 XR test

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road crossover: Einstein’s wheel

4 cylinders in line, 999 cm3, 165 hp and 114 Nm, 226 kg, € 17,900

E = MC2. For the boeotians like me, it evokes the general theory of relativity and space-time relationships. This could be the code name for the breathtaking and exuberant traveler BMW S 1000 XR. Since 2015, this strange machine has been raging on the roads, an improbable mix between trail and hypersport. A hyper biker…. but tourism, an adventure sport. In Munich, a guy must have said to his colleague: “…. and if we put the engine of the S1000RR in a trail….? "And Gunther, who’s not the last to mess around, must have replied," Ach ja, Big Idea! Do you see the joke? She is German; that is also unusual. Its name, the S 1000 XR, a whimsical, sassy and hyper efficient road crossover. Enough to study the principles of general relativity of another colleague.

After a few evolutions bringing it a little more horsepower, when it lacks some, the machine is largely reinvented in 2020. Aesthetics, engine, chassis…. there is some real new. The marathon runner from across the Rhine takes care of her lines, her weight, her dynamics and sharpens her strength.

BMW S 1000 XR reviewBMW S 1000 XR review

It is around Almeria (Spain) that we are taking the German long-range missile. Road test…

Discovery

No more asymmetry of lights. Inspired by hypersport, the aesthetics of the front end are refined, for even more perceived sportiness. More prominent and stylish, the pie server spoiler splits in two, highlighting the new tapered optics. Entirely with LEDs, they include daytime running lights with, as an option, the possibility of a Headlight Pro adaptive directional system.

These frame a large oblong air inlet, surmounted by a new bubble, adjustable on two levels by a simple rocking lever, unfortunately placed on the right. We can get by without too much trouble or let go of the accelerator. The fairings are widely reviewed. Plunging and long, the scoops descend to mid-engine. Associated with the large casing of the radiators, they make up complex deflectors and provide high-performance side protection.

BMW S 1000 XR headlightsBMW S 1000 XR headlights

Higher up, the 20-liter tank hides behind the streamlined lines of a dummy but ergonomic fairing. A wide abs plastic skid plate maximizes durability on its top. The seats change clearly, placing the passenger less high compared to the pilot. Designed, this one-piece seat benefits from an ergonomic boss to limit the sliding of the accompanying person. It also benefits from large grab handles. The new rear buckle, lower, receives an aluminum case holder plate.

The 2020 BMW S 1000 XRThe 2020 BMW S 1000 XR

This structure is based on a new aluminum Flex Frame perimeter frame. Widely modified, this structure narrows noticeably in the center and increases its dimensions towards the rear. Developments necessary to accommodate the new engine with carrier function. The sports block loses 5 kilos. Borrowed from the last S1000RR, the four-cylinder is here clearly adapted to the XR. Cubing 999 cm3 (80×49.7mm), its four valves per cylinder are not driven by pawls and the variable ShiftCam system is removed. The high engine is therefore designed for more road use, displaying a more linear torque. Less important than on the sports car and barely below the previous model, it is higher over a wider rev range. Slightly more important from 3,000 revolutions, it develops especially from 4,000 to 8,000 revolutions for a maximum of 114.Nm at 9,250 rpm. Euro5 result, often noted on other models. In short, nothing to worry about a lack of character. Power also retains its values ​​of 165 hp at 11,000 rpm. And despite the emission standard, the exhaust is lighter by more than a kilo.

The 4-cylinder engine of the BMW S 1000 XRThe 4-cylinder engine of the BMW S 1000 XR

The transmission sees its reports 4, 5 and 6 lengthened to reduce consumption. A more efficient anti-dribble clutch and an MSR engine drive torque management system limit slippage during heavy deceleration or downshifting. However, it will be necessary to go through the options for the Shifter up / down as well as for the cruise control ….

The clutch of the BMW S 1000 XRThe clutch of the BMW S 1000 XR

At the latest technological standard, the S1000XR has an electronically controlled accelerator. It provides 4 driving modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro, the latter now available as standard. Hyper responsive, the cavalry is curbed by the Rain mode which limits the torque to 90 Nm on 4 first gears, on the first 3 in Road.

BMW S 1000 XR speedometerBMW S 1000 XR speedometer

At BMW, the maps also regulate the implementation of the multitude of assistance associated with the 3-axis inertial unit (6 directions). We thus find the usual DTC traction control and anti-wheeling aids, while hill start control assistance Hill Start Control Pro makes its appearance. Likewise, the ABS braking is of course modulated on the angle. The S 1000 XR is now equipped with the Dynamic ESA suspension system as standard and it will be possible to add the Pro version as an option to benefit from 2 additional modes. The controlled damping is therefore entrusted to a 46 mm fork up front and a shock absorber on the opposite side, both electronically controlled and adjustable in any direction on the dashboard. Both travel 150mm, 10 more for the rear.

BMW S 1000 XR inverted forkBMW S 1000 XR inverted fork

Notably, the caster angle is reduced to 24.9 ° (against 25.5 °) as is the wheelbase: 1,522 mm (front 1,548 mm). On the braking side, there are 4-piston radial front calipers and an ABS Pro that works in curves by biting 320 mm discs. The opposite retarder is a double piston clamp tightening a 265 mm fret.

The swingarm of the BMW S 1000 XRThe swingarm of the BMW S 1000 XR

The set stops the 17 "light alloy rims in series which lose no less than 1.2 kilograms! A real plus in dynamic evolutions (elements forged in packM) because these unsprung masses contribute to the liveliness of the machine. optional tire pressure sensor will usefully serve the standard elbow valves …. Bridgestone T31 R casings in 120/70 and 190/55 serve the crossover.

The XR is shod in Bridgestone T31 RThe XR is shod in Bridgestone T31 R

The various modifications made to the whole motorcycle made it possible to reduce the total weight by 10 kg, or 226 kg ready for firing. Combined with lightened rims and a geometry with dimensions favoring agility, the new S 1000 XR promises ever more astonishing sensations.

The BMW S 1000 XRThe BMW S 1000 XR

If we regret the presence of many plastic covers, which have the advantage of streamlining the machine, we appreciate the presence of the rear light in the …. indicators, thus visually lightening the stern. Housings, plates and other metallic elements feature flawless surfaces. Slender, the side stand seems to me to have an insufficiently wide support to ensure optimal stability on any surface. The whole machine is of excellent quality, just like the one you paid for ….

BMW S 1000 XR turn signalBMW S 1000 XR turn signal

In the saddle

The BMW S 1000 XR is a top-of-the-range, high-performance and high-end stallion … period. Perched at 840mm as standard, the short boots will equip the Bavarian rocket with a low saddle, at 790mm. The driving position is dynamic, without excess, leaving the legs flexed without excess, but the feet resting on the footrests rather set back. The whole inclines the busts and arms towards the wide handlebars.

Saddle peaks at 840mm, but can be lowered to 790mmThe saddle rises to 840 mm, but can be lowered to 790 mm

Sheathed fork wells, variable diameter handlebars held by high bridges and perfectly surfaced triple clamps…. this is qualitative. And under the eyes, we find the connected 6.5-inch TFT color screen, from the S1000RR, equipping more and more BMW models and allowing your smartphone to be linked to the machines via Bluetooth. The screen displays all the useful information, or less, relating to the status of the XR 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. One of the most effective essential equipment for navigating the many features.

Instrumentation of the BMW S 1000 XRInstrumentation of the BMW S 1000 XR

In the city

The BMW block immediately evokes its sporting origins. Devoid of inertia, the four cylinder rises in the towers and barks furiously. The mechanics take the crew along with sly smoothness. In Rain mode, the stud is indeed better tamed and adapts well to urban developments. The appreciable mechanical availability and on the sixth report, the machine resumes without difficulty at the limits of the idle speed at 40 km / h. On this subject, the injection demonstrates a rare precision, leaving a perfect control of the acceleration..

The S1000XR is equipped with an optional up / down shifterThe S1000XR is equipped with an optional up / down shifter

Equally precise, the clutch or the quickshifter fitted to our machine contribute to the overall ease of handling. The turning radius is correct and we would do well with this great horse as our daily mule. In excess, the wild herds quickly heat up the crew and demand to get some fresh air.

Motorway and expressways

The S 1000 XR hits the fast lanes like a rocket bursting from a firing point. In a deep, metallic breath, we immediately hit 180 km / h in 3 when the shifter lights up. There are still 6 reports…. Huhuhu, I love this machine, stalled at over 200, quiet behind the bubble and fairings, the missile shoots towards its distant target. In all comfort. The taller riders may regret a slight setback in their ergonomic saddle. But then you are stalled and you have to do that when we go around. Because hypersport on stilts sets off again at any speed beyond 7,000 laps.

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

In legal terms, the block displays 5,500 revolutions / minute on the last report and starts again without difficulty. The machine barely vibrates, leaving its mirrors free from fuss. We then discover a pleasant GT and more pleasant. And the cruise control allows you to constrain yourself to a little wisdom. But hard to resist the urge to twist the rubber straight…. To avoid the prison planet, change course and opt for a spiral galaxy more capable of making your Munich man waltz.

Departmental

The slightly more closed geometry of the S 1000 XR gives it an additional liveliness well suited to its fiery temperament. In the winding, the road sport also benefits from the lever arm offered by its wide handlebars. And the lightening of its masses, in particular those of its rims, contributes greatly to an impressive reactivity. Our model with forged rims was all the more subtle on this point. The feeling of control and naturalness of the front is noticeable in Dynamic mode. Turning explosively, guided by a precise and neutral steering gear, the machine precisely winds the turns and atomizes the slightest stretch between each curve. On the intermediaries, the covers are bewitching and the evolutions adopt a hypnotic rhythm. The ample reasoning of the air box accompanies the vocalizations of the exhaust turbine. Beyond 8,000 revolutions, orbiting is ensured at each acceleration. And the Bridgestones efficiently pass 114 Nm of torque to the ground with the help of a powerful traction control. Precise and fast, the quickshifter fitted to the machine boosts sensations and efficiency, associated with a well-stepped gearbox. Enough to make full use of the German four-cylinder whose volcanic character charms the senses. Paradoxically, I prefer her personality to that of the sportswoman with the Shiftcam. Less efficiently linear, the torque here preserves the motor sensations, pushing the pilot to use and abuse it ….

The M pack adds forged rims to the XR for more dynamismThe M pack adds forged rims to the XR for more dynamism

Fortunately, the braking system is the height of the mechanical flights of the machine. The attack of the clamps on the discs is very frank as evidenced by the rapid depression of the fork on its start of the race. But mass transfers are then quickly contained by a reactive ESA. It’s less clear in Road mode, making the front end less natural in rapid changes. The effect of the inertial unit on the assistance is always appreciable, optimizing the active safety of the fast BMW spaceship..

ESA electronic suspensions make it possible to limit mass transfers during brakingESA electronic suspensions make it possible to limit mass transfers during braking

We also appreciate the accelerator / engine connection, especially on bends during go-arounds. Here again, the high precision of the injection delivers perfect control of the acceleration. In the same way, we keep without difficulty a trickle of gas on the angle and the raises are done without any jerk..

The Ride-by-Wire accelerator is associated with 4 riding modesThe Ride-by-Wire accelerator is associated with 4 riding modes

Part-cycle

Always more incisive, the S 1000 XR combines a rigid frame with studied flex and dynamic geometry. Placed on its piloted suspensions, it composes an agile, precise and lively vessel. Comfortable or more sporty, its cushioning gives it several useful faces and behaviors depending on the required travel style.

BMW S 1000 XR rear shock absorberBMW S 1000 XR rear shock absorber

Braking

The front calipers bite the discs powerfully but leave perfect control. With its active ABS on the corner, the BMW reassures at all times. Enough to drive hard, correcting the trajectories with the efficient rear clamp. This ensures excellent regulation.

Front brakes of the BMW S 1000 XRFront brakes of the BMW S 1000 XR

Comfort / Duo

Pilot and passenger benefit from a comfortable space with studied dynamic ergonomics. The seats allow long distances, shortened by the most invigorating mechanics. We will use suitcases to travel far. Qualitative, its piloted suspensions allow it to adapt to any type of crew and rhythm, in complete comfort. A standard center stand would have been welcome.

BMW S 1000 XR seatBMW S 1000 XR seat

The test of the BMW S1000 XR in video

Conclusion

With its new S 1000 XR, BMW still has a fast traveler, superlative in terms of performance, feel and driving pleasure. Its four-cylinder knows how to combine smoothness and explosiveness to accompany all your travels. A sensational machine in the broad sense, the sporty crossover is always a pleasure to ride. Now more efficient and comfortable, the German cruise missile is not for everyone, however. Must be a minimum. Experience, legs, money too. Now priced at € 17,900, the German is a high-end road Concorde. Its new plastic (a little too much for that matter….), Its bubble and its studied volumes give it a real plus in terms of protection. It is thus made more GT while of course retaining its exciting sportiness, boosted by a significant weight loss..

2020 BMW S 1000 XR2020 BMW S 1000 XR

We will oppose it the earthy Ducati Multistrada 1260. Even more expensive, 18,590 €, it also benefits from the greater torque of its explosive V2. In a different style, the new Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX is also a benchmark sport GT, claiming "only" € 14,390. A little less powerful, with more sporty ergonomics, it is an efficient and dynamic machine.

* Adept of relativity? The BMW S 1000 XR is the ideal tool for you to complete your space-time studies. On board, teleportation almost makes sense. To infinity…. and beyond !

Strong points

  • Strong and elegant aesthetic
  • Engine character and availability
  • Agility and efficiency of the chassis
  • Quality of suspensions
  • Efficient electronic assistance
  • Precise selection
  • Accessorization
  • Correct comfort
  • Quality of finishes
  • Overall dynamic efficiency
  • Pleasant instrumentation
  • Braking

Weak points

  • Uninviting side stand
  • No central stand as standard
  • Optional shifter and cruise control

The technical sheet of the BMW S 1000 XR

Test conditions

  • Itinerary: winding roads with variable surfaces
  • Weather report ! cool, sunny
  • Motorcycle mileage: 130 km
  • Problem encountered: ras

Test equipment

  • Nishua NRX-1 Carbon Helmet
  • Vanucci Tifoso jacket
  • Jean Vanucci Armalith 2.0
  • Vanucci Speed ​​profi IV gloves
  • Vanucci VTB 20 Boots

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