If you are passionate about sports motorcycles, with high performance and a very exclusive character, the new M 1000 XR will interest you. And if you have won the lottery, even better, because we are talking about an expensive and special motorcycle.
From the outset, its exterior design matches the definition of a trail model. That is, wide and high handlebars, a small front screen reminiscent of those used in the GS models, a minimalist body and, in addition, a height from the ground that does not match the characteristics of the motorcycles known as supersport.
In addition, to these exterior details we must add a four-cylinder in-line engine that produces 201 horsepower, an aluminum chassis or a silencer made of titanium from the specialist brand Akrapovich.
Therefore, the new BMW M 1000 XR is configured as a truly special motorcycle. Almost out of category. It is, in any case, a particular motorcycle, with its own style, which fits into the concept of sport-touring. A type of motorcycle that can benefit from the boom in trail sales, but is actually more designed for the circuit and not so much for trips. Although BMW assures that it works very well for traveling.
It is the third M model from BMW Motorrad and is based on the S 1000 RR, from which it takes the powerful four-cylinder engine. BMW explains that it is a long-distance sports motorcycle. And its driving dynamics speak for themselves, whether on country roads, circuits or long journeys.
In this way, the handlebar is slightly forward to promote a comfortable position on the road. Likewise, the color screen informs and allows any type of connectivity, something common in the brand's models.
The weight of 223 kg, the tank with a capacity of 20 liters and a long list of optional elements can transform it into a touring motorcycle for long trips, but it is very clear that its natural habitat, where its true qualities come to light, is in track.
The four-cylinder engine delivers an excellent 201 HP at 12,750 rpm and the 4th, 5th and 6th gear ratios are shorter to benefit rear wheel traction and acceleration. The suspension and chassis are based on the S 1000 XR with inverted front forks, adjustable steering damper and Dynamic Damping Control (DDC).
In addition to the technology in the engine and suspension, the aerodynamics also receive special treatment with winglets (small wings) in the area of the front side panels with the aim of achieving more speed on the circuit and the best possible driving stability at high speeds. In fact, from around 100 km/h, BMW claims that the wings provide an increase in load on the front wheels that reaches 12 kg at 220 km/h.
The M Competition package that BMW offers includes carbon fiber wheels, front and rear fenders, chain guard and side panels. All for a weight of 211 kilos.
The mirrors on the handlebar stops are another of the small improvements, as a factory option. And the fork legs house the new M brake calipers.
Neatly finished, the lucky customer will enjoy a 6.5-inch color TFT screen with an exclusive boot animation. Optionally, GPS can be activated with a stopwatch function. Through the screen you can control Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race modes, plus a Race Pro mode that can adjust traction or anti-wheelie control (for unwanted movements of the rear wheel).
It also includes a rear USB charging socket, LED lighting and electronic cruise control. It also incorporates four different engine maps, double action shifting, engine brake control, a skid system and, for the more adventurous, even a hill control assistant.
The price that BMW Motorrad has set for this very special model is 28,950 euros, with everything included, available in Luminous White/M Motorsport. There is also the Black Storm Metallic/M Motorsport, but it already comes in the M Competition package that raises the price to 6,196 euros.
