The original bike that the R was derived from, the full fat S1000RR, produced close to 200 ponies. The single R is a little more modest with ‘only’ 160 BHP on tap. The motor has different fuel injection mapping to the full sports version. As well as fuelling the bike perfectly, this allows it to produce the same amount of torque earlier than its faster sibling.
This makes for a more usable ‘real world’ bike than any sports bike could ever be. A well ridden R is as capable of slaying giants on track as any 200BHP plus litre sports bike. Thanks to its ergonomics, it’ll happily take a pillion and a set of panniers for a weekend away. Add a tankbag to the equation and you’ll have more than enough space for everything that two people could need for a few days away.
Where this thing really shines is on the road. This BMW S1000R is well spec’ed with ABS, traction control, a choice of riding modes and a short, dynamic chassis. The stability control is simply excellent and it is worth its weight in gold. A standard wheel size offers the rider a choice of rubber, from touring tyres to track-day specialist rubber.
At this stage these bikes are in their second generation and the older ones have yet to present any significant problems. Most of the ones sold here in Ireland tended to be very well finished. There's a host of factory fit accessories available. These include LED lights, heated grips, alarms and immobilisers, as well as toys like Gear Shift Assistant. Who, after all, has time to be changing their own gears these days?
Buying one from an official dealer comes with the advantage of a BMW approved used bike (AUB) warranty. While the warranty doesn’t cover quite as much as it would on a new bike it does cover an awful lot and gives the rider/ owner a lot of comfort when it comes to riding with peace of mind.
The 2016 BMW S1000R on test came from Joe Duffy Motorrad here in Dublin’s Finglas, where it’s always sunny. Give them a call on 01864 7750 to arrange a test ride. If you’re lucky enough to live in the south of the country, talk to Jer at Kearys Motorrad. You’ll get him on 021 500 3600.
