2014 BMW S1000R Naked Sportbike | First Look Review

2014 BMW S 1000 R

2014 BMW S1000R First Look

2014 BMW S1000R Naked Motorcycle Preview

There’s no doubting the popularity of the naked sportbike market, especially here in the states. With upright ergonomics, agility in urban setting, and the power of a superbike, this market makes perfect sense for real-world riders.

And with more and more manufacturers offering bigger and bolder nakeds, BMW decided to add to its offerings with the S1000R. The new naked literbike was unveiled Tuesday during the 2013 EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show).

As the name implies, the S 1000 R is a unclothed version of BMW’s popular sportbike, the S 1000 RR. The new S 1000 R roadster uses the same technology as the Bavarian manufacturer’s S 1000 RR sportbike, including the 999cc inline four.

But the engine was revamped and detuned for more low-end power and torque, the S 1000 R’s engine producing 160 horsepower, down 33 from the S 1000 RR sportbike. And just like the S 1000 RR, the engine utilizes a six-speed transmission and utilizes an programmable quick shifter.

The S1000R also arrives with superbike-savvy electronics, including Race ABS, ASC traction control, and two riding modes. All of this is offered in a 456-lb. package.

Besides increasing low- and mid-range torque and power, the S 1000 R’s maximum rpm has been reduced by about 2000 rpm. The revised powerplant creates 160 horsepower at 11,000 rpm, and 83 ft.-lb. torque at 9,250 rpm. Though down on horsepower from the S1000RR superbike’s engine, the S 1000 R’s produces seven additional ft.-lb. of torque.

This altered power was achieved by utilizing a redesigned cylinder head ducts, modified cam profiles and appropriately modified engine management. The new BMS-X engine management system also supports an E-Gas “throttle-by-wire” system.

The S 1000 R arrives standard with two riding modes – “Rain” and “Road” – and ASC (Automatic Stability Control). Each mode provides various inputs of Race ABS and ASC intervention.

Following are the specs of each mode:

  • Road: Race ABS and ASC are set up for dry road conditions and optimal throttle response is ensured.
  • Rain: The bike is set up for low-grip road conditions, particularly for wet weather. Throttle response is softer and Race ABS and ASC intervene sooner, in line with the conditions. In this mode, maximum power is limited to 136 horsepower at 9500 rpm and torque to 77 ft.-lb. at 9000 rpm.

The 2014 BMW S 1000 R can be ordered with the optional Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which incorporates two additional riding modes – “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro.” BMW says DTC allows riders to make the most of the S 1000 R’s sporty performance potential both on the road and on the race track. Dynamic Traction Control, which includes a banking angle sensor, offers safe and dynamic acceleration which is currently state-of-the-art for a production motorcycle.

The chassis and suspension is also based on the S 1000 RR superbike; the naked S 1000 R features the aluminum alloy perimeter frame that allows the engine to form part of the load-bearing structure.

Up front, suspension duties are handled by an adjustable upside-down fork, and out back the S 1000 R features a dual swingarm with adjustable central spring strut guide the wheels front and rear. BMW reports that roadster-specific suspension requirements are met by a slight change in geometry.

The BMW S 1000 R also features the latest in braking technology, the Race ABS. This system works in conjunction with two 320mm floating disc brakes up front squeezed by radial four-piston fixed calipers. Out back, a single 220mm disc is squeezed by a single-piston floating caliper.

The S 1000 R features that “tail up – nose down” aggressive stance known throughout the world of sportbikes, and it’s immediately recognizable like its sibling, the S 1000 RR superbike. The cockpit also resembles the S 1000 RR superbike, and includes an LC display with analogue rev counter, gear indicator, riding mode, and lap timer.

The 2014 BMW S 1000 R will be available in three color schemes – Racing Red Non-Metallic, Frozen Dark Blue Metallic and Light White Non-Metallic. As of the writing, BMW did not release a price.

2014 BMW S1000R Highlights:

  • Well-thought-out overall concept sets new standards in the sports roadster segment.
  • Pared down styling with an aggressively dynamic look; clear family similarities with S 1000 RR.
  • Liquid-cooled 999 cc four-cylinder in-line engine. Max. power 118 kW (160 hp) at 11,000 rpm, max. torque 112 Nm (approx. 83 ft-lb) at 9,250 rpm.
  • 456 lb. curb weight with full fuel tank.
  • Standard-fitted Race ABS for superior braking performance and safety.
  • Standard-fitted ASC (Automatic Stability Control) for safe acceleration on surfaces with variable grip.
  • Standard-fitted steering damper.
  • Choice of two standard, rider-selectable riding modes, “Rain” and “Road.”
  • Optional Dynamic Traction Control DTC including Riding mode Pro maximizes both riding enjoyment and active safety in all road situations.
  • Optional Riding mode Pro comprising two additional riding modes – “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro” – for road and track use.
  • Full synchronization of Race ABS, ASC/ DTC, DDC and engine management.
  • Innovative exhaust system with small rear silencer, front silencer, electronically controlled exhaust flap and two closed-loop, three-way catalytic converters.
  • E-Gas system for optimal throttle control and maximum reliability.
  • Suspension components with large damping reserves.
  • DDC (Dynamic Damping Control) – electronically controlled damping system for optimal, dynamic adaptation of damping to the current riding situation and to the load the bike is carrying.
  • Aluminum fuel tank brings further weight savings and is unique in this segment.
  • Infectious handling with highest standards of stability at high speeds and when braking.
  • Multifunctional instrument cluster with extensive range of features.
  • Extensive equipment and tailored accessories conforming to the customary high BMW Motorrad standards.

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