2024 BMW S 1000 XR and M 1000 XR – First Look

The big highlight for the S 1000 XR is an increase in power compared to the previous model – 170 hp vs 165 hp. Even better is that this power is achieved at the same engine speed as before – 11,000 rpm. This extra power comes from optimizing the flow of the intake channels and new mapping. Peak torque remains unchanged at 84 lb-ft (114 Nm) at 9,250 rpm.

From there, the next big change comes from the revised seat with more usable length and width that allows for greater freedom of movement. As a result, the seat height is now 0.4 in. (10mm) higher than before, at 33.5 in. (850mm), but three different seat height options are available, should you need them.

• A textured surface for the radiator cover
• Color-matched beak (as opposed to it being black before)
• Optimized Shift Assist Pro for more precise shifting
• Revised suspension with more spring preload
• Redesigned handlebar clamp
• Higher output 12 Ah battery compared to the 9 Ah unit used before
• Keyless ride, USB charging, Headlight Pro all standard
• E-Call (emergency calling) now available in the USA
• Use of the M GPS laptrigger is now possible
• M carbon wheels are available as optional

As you’d expect from an M model from BMW, the M 1000 XR raises the XR’s game even further – and the timing couldn’t be better considering Ducati’s announcement of the Multistrada V4 RS for next year. Designed for ultimate sports-touring performance, while also being perfectly comfortable on a racetrack, the M 1000 XR most notable improvement over the new S 1000 XR is yet another bump in power. Based on the Shift cam engine of the S 1000 RR, the M XR makes a peak of 201 hp at 12,750 rpm. Its peak torque output of 83.3 lb-ft (113 Nm) comes on at 11,000 rpm, with overall redline set at 14,600.

To help enhance that sensation of speed and give more acceleration out of corners, final drive gearing is shorter. The rear sprocket has 47 teeth compared to the S XR’s 45-tooth sprocket. On top of that, the gear ratios for 4th, 5th, and 6th gears are now shorter than the S XR.

Following in the aerodynamic footsteps of all the superbikes these days, the M XR features winglets and wind deflectors to help increase mechanical grip and ride stability at high speeds. BMW says at 136 mph (220 kph), the wings generate approximately 26.5 lbs (12 kg) of downforce.

The other big area of improvement for the M XR over the S version is the suspension. The M model sees 45mm fork tubes with closed cartridge inserts, separating compression and rebound functions between the two legs. You can now also adjust the spring preload within the DDC active suspension. Fine touches on the forks include a finely-milled fork clamp, a black aluminum bar with lasered “BMW M 1000 XR” lettering, an adjustable steering damper, optional handlebar end mirrors, and redesigned fork legs that can now accommodate the M brake calipers. Speaking of which…

The M XR follows in the footsteps of the M 1000 RR and M 1000 R in its use of the blue anodized calipers. These work in conjunction with dual 320mm discs of 5mm thickness with black anodized carriers. There’s a new radial master cylinder for precise metering of the brake fluid. These are all mounted on lightweight forged aluminum wheels, with M carbon wheels available as an option if you choose the M competition package.

For riders who really like to push the limits, the M XR also has the Brake Slide Assist function. As you can likely guess from the name, this lets you drift the rear of the bike into corners with a consistent slide. If you dare.

It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, but the 6.5-inch TFT display is the same seen on the other M models, with similar layout and functions. There’s an extended display of the red speed range, and if you’re serious about track riding, there’s an optional suite of data logging equipment available that can be unlocked via the OBD interface of the instrument cluster.

If you truly want everything there is to squeeze out of the M XR, then there’s the M Competition Package. This includes adjustable footrests for both rider and passenger, the aforementioned laptrigger, and a host of carbon goodness like wheels, wheel cover, chain guard, side panels, and much more. All in, BMW says the complete M package amounts to a 6.6-lb (3kg) weight reduction.