BMW
Rated output | 125 kW (170 hp) at 11,000 rpm |
Engine type | Oil/water-cooled, four-cylinder, four-stroke, in-line engine with four valves per cylinder |
Bore stroke | 80 mm x 49.7 mm |
Capacity | 999 cc |
Max torque | 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm / 84 lb-ft at 9,250 rpm |
Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
Mixture control | Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management system: BMS-O with throttle-by-wire |
Max rpm | 12,000 rpm |
Max speed | over 250 kmh / over 155 mph |
Fuel consumption per 100 km | 6.2 l |
Co2 emission | 144 g/km |
Fuel type | Premium unleaded (max. 5% ethanol, E5), 98 ROZ/RON, 93 AKI |
Alternator | Permanent magnet alternator with 493 W (nominal power) |
Battery | 12 V / 12 Ah, maintenance-free |
Clutch | Multiplate clutch in oil bath, anti-hopping clutch, with self-reinforcement |
Gearbox | Claw-shifted 6-speed gearbox integrated in the transmission housing |
Drive | Chain 525 17/45 |
Traction control | BMW Motorrad DTC |
Frame | Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, co-supporting engine |
Front suspension | Upside-down telescopic fork, diameter 45 mm, electronic self-adjusting rebound/compression damping (Dynamic ESA) |
Rear suspension | Aluminium double-sided swing-arm, central shock absorber, electronic preload adjuster, electronic self-adjusting rebound/compression damping (Dynamic ESA) |
Suspension travel front rear | 150 mm | 150 mm / 5.9" | 5.9" |
Wheelbase | 1,541 mm / 60.6" |
Castor | 118 mm / 4.64" |
Steering head angle | 64.8° |
Wheels | Aluminium cast wheels |
Rim front | 3.50 x 17" |
Rim rear | 6.00 x 17" |
Tyre front | 120/70 ZR17 |
Tyre rear | 190/55 ZR17 |
Brake front | Twin disc brake, diameter 320 mm, 4-piston fixed caliper |
Brake rear | Single disc brake, diameter 265 mm, 2-piston floating caliper |
Abs | BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partial integral) |
Seat height unladen | 850 mm / 33.5" (OE lowering: 790 mm / 31.1") |
Inner leg curve | 1,905 mm (OE lowering: 1,809 mm) / 75" (OE lowering: 71.2") |
Usable tank volume | 20 l / 5.2 gal |
Reserve | approx. 4 l / approx. 1 gal |
Length | 2,156 mm / 84.8" (over rear wheel) |
Height | 1,460 mm / 57.5" (without mirror) |
Width | 850 mm / 33.5" (without accessories) |
Unladen weight | 227 kg / 500 lbs |
Permitted total weight | 450 kg / 992 lbs |
Standard equipment | Headlight Pro, Riding modes Pro, Dynamic ESA chassis, Keyless Ride, Integrated case holder, Toll pass compartment, Storage compartment under seat, USB charging interface, Emergency call |
Optional equipment | Dynamic ESA Pro, Shift assistant Pro, Tire Pressure Control TRC, M Carbon wheels, M Forged wheels, M Lightweight battery, Additional LED headlight, Luggage carrier, Heated grips, Lowered suspension, M titanium rear silencer, M GPS-Laptrigger, M Carbon package, M Billet pack |
Aprilia
Aprilia
Aprilia
The BMW S1000XR is the perfect combination of long-distance touring comfort and sportbike performance. With an impressive 170 hp, this motorcycle is designed to push boundaries and redefine what it means to enjoy the road. The 2024 model brings subtle but significant improvements in engine, suspension, ergonomics, and styling, offering a refined riding experience without losing its edge.
While the spotlight for 2024 has largely been on the M1000XR, the S1000XR deserves its own praise. It has received key updates that enhance its practicality, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring—solo or two-up. Designed to accommodate hard luggage, the S1000XR is the more sensible choice for riders who want a fast, thrilling machine that’s still comfortable over long journeys.
The character of the S1000XR remains unchanged with this year’s updates, so if you're already riding a previous model, there's no urgent need to rush for an upgrade. However, the new features and refined ride quality make it an appealing choice for those considering entering the world of premium sport touring bikes.
The S1000XR is at home on winding roads and high-speed corners. With its aggressive riding position and sharp handling, you can confidently carve through turns and maintain stability at high speeds. At lower speeds, the bike is still nimble, and while it might not have the weightless feel of a GS below 40 mph, it remains far from unwieldy.
The semi-active suspension included as standard in the S1000XR is superior to previous models’ optional setups. Larger damping pistons and lower operating pressure provide a more balanced ride between comfort and control. The suspension is especially notable in the “Road” setting, where the ride feels more absorbent. However, riders looking for an even sportier experience should opt for the Dynamic ESA package, which gives firmer control but at the cost of some ride comfort.
While the S1000XR is undoubtedly sporty, it also offers a spacious and comfortable setup for longer rides. That said, after a few hours, some riders might start to experience discomfort, especially from the seat. The wider and longer seat for 2024 offers more wiggle room, which is helpful when cornering, but it still isn’t deeply padded. For shorter riders, the increased seat height to 850mm may present a challenge, although lower seat options are available.
The two-height windscreen offers decent protection depending on your riding situation—down for sporty riding, up for longer highway stints. While it’s not perfect, the easy adjustment mechanism is a convenient feature.
BMW’s attention to reducing the vibration issues from the first-generation models is also evident in the 2024 S1000XR. While some vibration still creeps into the grips at highway speeds, especially from the footpegs, it’s a noticeable improvement from earlier versions.
Weighing in at 227 kg, the S1000XR remains relatively light for a touring bike, but its size can be felt when maneuvering at low speeds. On the move, however, the bike feels nimble, and the brakes are powerful, offering plenty of stopping power when needed. The Bridgestone S22 tires offer excellent grip, complementing the sharp handling.
BMW has made efforts to address concerns from earlier models regarding the gearbox and electronics, ensuring the 2024 S1000XR is a solid, reliable machine. Some past complaints about the finish of engine castings and bodywork have been largely resolved, and as long as the bike is properly maintained, it should remain mechanically sound for many miles to come.
At over £14,000, the BMW S1000XR is not a cheap bike, but for what it offers, it represents excellent value for a premium sport-touring machine. The TE variant comes loaded with extra features, making it the best option for those with deeper pockets who want all the bells and whistles.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to take the long way round and experience the thrill of the open road on the BMW S1000XR.