BMW S1000 RR: The German powerhouse that revolutionised superbikes

The BMW S1000 RR was the German marque’s first four-cylinder superbike in 2009 and immediately challenged the established Japanese and Italian elite with its combination of raw power, sophisticated electronics, premium finishes and real-world usability.

First updated in 2012, when it was also joined by the track spec HP4 variant, then again in 2015 before being completely redesigned in 2019, it remains one of the very best superbikes available. 

History of BMW S1000 RR

• BMW S1000 RR 2019
• BMW S1000 RR 2015-2018
• BMW S1000 RR 2012-2014
• BMW S1000 RR 2009-2011
• Next BMW S1000 RR

BMW S1000 RR 2019

The BMW S1000 RR is the German marque’s flagship superbike, as originally launched in 2009, and given a recent and complete overhaul with the 2019 BMW S1000 RR. 

With all-new styling, a more powerful ‘ShiftCam’ engine producing a whopping 207bhp, new chassis, suspension and electronics, it was not only more capable than ever but also lighter and more nimble. Crucially, though, it’s impressively easy and comfortable to ride on the road too.

A 2021 update helped it meet Euro5, while a series of tweaks for 2023 improved the engine, brakes and electronics further still. A limited edition ‘M’ version, the M1000RR, was introduced in 2022 boasting more power, features and even aero wings!

BMW S1000 RR 2015-2018

The ‘last of the first-generation models’ 2015 BMW S1000 RR was the ultimate incarnation of the original machine (along HP4 Race version), distinguished mostly by its asymmetrical headlights being the reverse way round to previous models.

In standard form it had six extra bhp thanks to a new cylinder head, a lighter frame with both sharper steering geometry and a longer wheelbase (for stability), new dash and improved electronics, but there were also options for semi-active suspension, quick shifter and even heated grips and cruise control, making it a better road bike, too.

BMW S1000 RR 2012-2014

The 2012 iteration, although visually almost unchanged from the original, was the first significant update over the 2009 model. It had more low-down grunt, a smoother power delivery, more refined electronics, better suspension and even quicker steering.

Those changes and more, including a lighter action throttle, made the 2012 model a significant improvement over the 2009/10 model.

Meanwhile, further optional extras, such as a GPS datalogger, helped make it even better on track, too.

BMW S1000 RR 2009-2011

The original BMW S1000 RR was launched in 2009 and caused an immediate sensation for its 190+bhp raw power, sophisticated rider electronics and impressive real world road manners. The result was the fastest, most advanced and yet also most usable superbike ever produced. 

Although its larger size and bulk prevented it from being the on-track winner that had been hoped for, its sheer speed still produced impressive results, especially at the Isle of Man TT. Quality and durability are good, and it remains a good used buy to this day. Later, even faster, more performance or track-orientated versions include the 2012 HP4 and 2018 HP4 Race.

What to expect from the next BMW S1000 RR

With the latest racing homologation special version, the M1000RR, debuting in 2021, complete with aero aids and the very best components, it’s clear that BMW aims to keep the S1000RR at the top of the superbike tree for years to come.

 

Indeed, in World Superbikes, BMW is making its biggest push in years by signing 2021 world champion Toprak Razgatlioglu for 2024, while in road racing, particularly at the TT, the S1000RR/M1000RR remains the bike to have