BMW M1000RR – the first bike to get the M treatment

It’s powered by the S1000’s 999cc ShiftCam inline-four, albeit with a brace of updated internals, including new two-ring forged pistons, slimmer and lighter rocker arms, titanium valves, adapted combustion chambers and increased compression, plus revised intake ports. The result is a further 500rpm over the S thou (to 15,100rpm), five more PS – up to 212PS (156kW), more of which is available at the top end, plus higher torque in the mid-range (maxing out with 113Nm at 11,000pm).

A full titanium Akrapovič exhaust system shaves off a few more kilos, taking the M1000RR to an impressive kerb weight of just 192kg. Track-optimised aerodynamics include a high windscreen and carbon-fibre ‘winglets’ (cute, eh?), which offer up to 16.3kg downforce (at track speeds), providing maximum grip through corners and preventing the front wheel from lifting. Combined with modified chassis geometry and suspension – including a longer single piece swingarm and shifted back weight distribution – M brakes (supplied by Nissin) and carbon wheels the M1000RR is a pro-rider away from a world superbike team.

In terms of electrics, the standard rain, road, dynamic and race modes will feature, alongside the latest generation of Hill Start Control Pro, ShiftAssist Pro, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and DTC wheelie function. However, BMW will also be able to unlock a ‘Race Pro1-3’ mode, through which the rider can adjust every possible aspect including throttle response and engine braking. Launch Control, Pit-Lane-Limiter, GPS lap-timer and datalogger all further enhance the on-track experience. These functions fall into the aftermarket competition pack, which also includes further milled and carbon parts, a 220g lighter swingarm, DLC-coated M endurance chain and rear seat cowl.

However, with just the addition of the supplied indicators and number plates the M1000RR can morph into road going spec, making it the ultimate garage addition, something to sit alongside a new BMW M3 or M4. And at just £31,000, it’s almost £4k cheaper than a V4R from a certain Italian competitor…