2024 BMW S1000RR review: Of all the superbikes, this is the easiest to ride and the most comfortable
The BMW S1000RR is a superbike, the fourth generation of the machine first released in 2010. At a time when its rivals were barely pumping out 160 horsepower at the rear wheel, this German wonder had 190 horsepower and featured MotoGP-inspired electronics and race-ready handling — impressive for a company best known for its sensible tourers and adventure bikes.
Redesigned in 2012 and updated in 2015, it’s a multiple TT winner, a favorite with racing drivers and the circuit weapon of choice for discerning track fans. The long-awaited sequel has been four years in development and is all-new.
From its sensual looks and electronic gadgets to a fresh new driving experience, the BMW S1000RR is very different from its predecessor. Only the name remains. Agile, precise and refined, this bike handles like a lightweight 600cc supersport with the grunt of a V4 engine and the incredible peak power of a competition superbike.
The only criticisms are the hard-to-reach rear brake and the slow arrival at the dealership. The old RR was fast all the way to the end, but after a decade of experience, this latest BMW S1000RR has taken the superbike game to the next level.
Long-term test: MCN rode the BMW S1000RR for a year in 2019
The 2019 BMW S1000RR was the best superbike on the market
Our testers spoke highly of the S1000RR, earning it the overall win in the “Best Sportbike” category at the 2020 MCN Awards. Since then, many new competitors have come on the scene, and while the 2023 isn’t at its best, it’s still a simply great superbike.
If you’re looking for something even more special, you can also stop by our BMW M1000RR test to see if the very expensive homologation special model is the better motorcycle for you.
BMW S1000RR 2019 Video Test
Listen to Neevesy live from launch on his thoughts on the S1000RR.
BMW S1000RR 2021 Updates
In July 2020, BMW announced changes to the 2021 S1000RR range, including a new black paint job called Black Storm Metallic.
The new understated look features black subframes and plastic parts, with the only splash of color coming from the bright red “RR” stickers on the fairings. The motorcycle will now be Euro 5 homologated for the first time, having technically remained Euro 4 until now.
You can also upgrade your S1000RR with a range of eye-catching parts from the M Sport catalogue. The M Milling parts package gives you the footrests and engine protectors of the M version, plus improved folding brake and clutch levers and their protectors.
You can also add a sports muffler or an M’s titanium exhaust, and serious track enthusiasts can also unlock the GPS-controlled Lap Trigger function.
The new colour replaces Racing Red Non-Metallic on the base model S1000RR, while Hockenheim Silver remains the other base option. 2021 also sees the introduction of a new top-of-the-line homologation special model called the BMW M1000RR. The M version has a more powerful engine and aero package that allows the race team to tune it more reliably. Thanks to its relatively simple suspension (which the race teams throw in the trash anyway), the S1000RR is still the better choice for most street riders.
2023 BMW S1000RR: The game continues again
The 2019 BMW S1000RR was pretty spot on, but the 2023 model takes it a step further. It has more power, new electronics including an advanced slide control system, stronger brakes, and more flexible landing gear with improved shape and wings. Its performance levels are far beyond what most of us can hope to achieve, and it takes some talent to harness its electric magic and start driving it fast.
But thanks to the upgrades, this bike is not only a ferociously fast superbike, but also one with an even greater margin of safety on the road or track, especially with worn tires.
It’s hard to say if it’s dynamically better than the old bike, but the engine, handling and electronics are all smoother, making it the easiest of all the superbikes to ride fast.
