An easy bike to predict for a 2021 debut, the BMW S1000R has just debuted from the German brand. As such, the 2021 BMW S1000R is the streetfighter cousin to the current generation BMW S1000RR, which means it boasts a new engine and chassis.
Both of those elements come from the superbike, but the BMW S1000R sees its inline-four engine tuned for better street performance, rather than outright track speed.
As such, there is 162hp (121 kW) on tap, and 84 lbs•ft (114 Nm) of torque, with 59 lbs•ft available at 3,000 rpm. If those numbers sound familiar to you, they should. They’re the same performance figures as the outgoing S1000R model.
BMW Motorrad has also fiddled with the gearbox on the S1000R, making 4th, 5th, and 6th gears taller, which helps with engine noise, engine vibrations, and fuel consumption while cruising.
The Germans say that over 10 lbs have been cut off the S1000R, with a claimed wet weight of 439 lbs (199 kg) for the 2021 model. Getting crazy with it, that weight figure can be reduced even further with BMW’s “M Package” for the S1000R, which can add forge or carbon fiber wheels to the motorcycle.
Of course, the electronics package on the 2021 BMW S1000R is a bit à la carte, like it is on all BMW models…though it may not be that way once you get to the dealership. It does feature a six-axis IMU though, and if your coin can handle it, a robust set of rider aids.
Accordingly, the ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control (with wheelie feature), and LED lights, and 6.5″ TFT dash all come standard.
Available as options are the Ride Modes Pro, Dynamic Braking Control Pro, MSR, and Engine Braking Control settings.
There is no word on pricing though, and of note, BMW Motorrad USA lists the previous generation S1000R as its 2021 model, which could either be an oversight, or a sign that the new BMW S1000R here isn’t destined for immediate arrival in the United States.
That may or may not be shame, depending on how the new BMW S1000R strikes you. While we found the current S1000RR superbike to be a big step forward in the aesthetics department for the German brand, those looks haven’t quite translated to its streetfighter sibling.
There is also the issue that the BMW S1000RR came to the United States in a greatly detuned state, particularly in its midrange. Presumably that would be less of an issue with the S1000R road bike, but we will have to wait and see.
We also hope that BMW Motorrad has finally figured out that the buzzing nature of its inline-four engine is unacceptable at this price/performance point, a deal-breaker for many long-haul riders who might be eyeing a bike like the S1000R.
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