BMW M 1000 XR 2024 Test

The list of high-end components and spectacular data for the M 1000 XR is very long. Since its base, the S 1000 XR, has also been given an update, we must first talk about the most important new features before we get to the riding impressions.

The heart of the BMW Sporttourer M 1000 XR is an inline four-cylinder engine based on the BMW S 1000 RR engine, featuring variable valves known as Shift-Cam with a different mapping. The engine delivers 201 horsepower at 12,750 rpm, which is 31 horsepower more than the new S 1000 XR. Maximum torque of 113 Newton meters is achieved at 11,000 rpm. While the engine performs well on a touring bike, the focus is clearly on maximum performance in the higher rev range suitable for the racetrack. The M 1000 XR has a maximum speed of 14,600 rpm and an optimized intake system with variable intake funnels to enhance charge changes at high engine speeds. Additionally, some differences from the S 1000 XR can also be advantageous on country roads, such as the shorter gear ratio on the M 1000 XR with a rear sprocket of 47 teeth instead of 45, and in the transmission in 4th, 5th, and 6th gear.

In addition to the engine itself, the BMW Sporttourer boasts a range of high-end components that demand attention. These include a steeply raked titanium rear silencer with a carbon end cap, M Endurance chain, M winglets for enhanced high-speed stability, and improved braking and acceleration performance due to aerodynamic downforce. The bike also features an upside-down fork with adjustable spring base in conjunction with standard DDC, M brakes - a first for a long-distance sports bike, forged aluminum wheels, M handbrake and clutch levers, adjustable steering damper, over-milled handlebar clamp, and a tubular handlebar with laser-engraved BMW M XR lettering positioned further forward than on the S 1000 XR. These are just a few of the standout features. If you want to delve into all the details regarding the equipment, new features, and accessories of the M 1000 XR and S 1000 XR, you can find this information in the new features report here. And for those who believe the M 1000 XR is all about bling-bling, wait until you see the extensive list of electronic systems and components.

What is intriguing about BMW Sporttourer motorcycles is how they combine features from both touring and racing sectors into one bike. The M 1000 XR comes equipped with a range of advanced systems such as Hill Start Control Pro for easy starts on inclines, a lightweight M battery, rear USB charging socket, LED light units, electronic cruise control, heated grips, keyless ride, and headlights with adaptive Cornering lights (Headlight Pro). Additionally, it features Advanced Rider Assistance Systems found on higher-end touring bikes, including cornering ABS, riding modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic, Race, and Race Pro1-3), the latest Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), DTC wheelie function with 6-axis sensor box, and a quickshifter for seamless gear shifts without the clutch. The bike also offers four adjustable throttle characteristics, Engine Brake with triple adjustability in Race Pro mode, Brake Slide Assist, Launch Control, and Pit Lane Limiter. The instrument cluster boasts a 6.5-inch TFT display with unique features like a red speed range display, M logo start animation, and OBD interface for M GPS data loggers with M GPS Laptrigger activation code. The three fully customizable Race riding modes allow riders to adjust or deactivate these systems as needed, with the ability to change dynamic traction control settings on the fly with a toggle switch. With all these high-performance features, one may wonder how much of a country road tourer the M 1000 XR really is. But enough speculation - it's time to hit the road and experience the ride firsthand.

The riding experience on the BMW M 1000 XR is truly impressive, as evidenced by the consistent reactions from journalists. As we leave the densely populated coastal region of southern Spain and tackle the first curves, many heads are shaking inside the helmets. However, this is not due to disappointment or dissatisfaction! At our first stop, we exchange looks, everyone is grinning broadly under their helmets, and our usually talkative colleagues are speechless. I like to call it the "Are you stupid" effect. In German: Alter Schwede! But what exactly leaves us speechless?

The BMW Sporttourer M 1000 XR boasts a powerful engine that enhances the riding experience. This sporty model is quick to rev, allowing for precise control and a lively response to throttle inputs. The smooth four-cylinder throttle response makes it easy to accelerate out of corners at high lean angles, utilizing the impressive power of the bike. With a wider rear tire compared to the S 1000 XR, the M XR ensures optimal power delivery to the road, even when leaning into turns. Despite the ability to reach high revs, up to 9,000 - 10,000 RPM, on long bends, the M 1000 XR's power may not be fully utilized on public roads. However, the engine is just one of the many reasons why this Sporttourer has garnered such enthusiasm among riders.

The BMW M 1000 XR is packed with high-quality components that perform exceptionally well. When entering a curve, the brakes on the M model provide strong stopping power. Just a light touch on the finely crafted brake lever is enough to engage the brakes in a sporty manner. The 320 millimeter dual discs with radial brake calipers offer precise control. This pairs perfectly with the responsive steering. Our test bikes were equipped with the optional M Competition package, which includes a sleek black design and numerous carbon fiber accents, as well as Carbon rims instead of forged ones. A slight movement of the handlebars or a shift in weight effortlessly leans the 220 kilograms (223 kg without the M Competition package) into a curve. The dynamic damping control continuously adjusts compression and rebound. Depending on the riding mode, the system adapts to provide a firmer or softer ride; in Dynamic mode, you can feel every bump in the road. The quickshifter allows for lightning-fast gear changes without disrupting the bike's balance, allowing for confident and spirited riding through twists and turns. The M 1000 XR is a marvel of engineering, offering an exhilarating riding experience. To fully enjoy cornering, it's important to warm up the sporty tires first. The Bridgestone Battlax RS 2 tires require some time to reach optimal grip levels. For country road riding on the M 1000 XR, switching to other sport or hyper-touring tires like the Conti SportAttack or Bridgestone S 22 may provide better performance and handling in varying road conditions.

Die M 1000 XR von BMW wird offiziell als Langstrecken-Sporttourer bezeichnet und in dem YouTube-Video "The fastest Roadtrip" wunderschön inszeniert, in dem die M 1000 XR von der Fabrik in Berlin zur Isle of Man TT fährt und dann auf der TT-Strecke von TT-Legende Peter Hickman gejagt wird. Aber abgesehen von Promo-Videos, ist es realistisch, mit der M 1000 XR auf Tour zu gehen?

BMW intentionally maintains a certain distance from the S 1000 XR in this segment, which is why there is no fixed luggage set or hard-shell luggage solution available for the M XR. Additionally, there is no space for luggage racks at the rear due to the presence of M winglets at the front, providing the same 12 kg of downforce at 220 km as on the M 1000 R. Aerodynamic measures have also been implemented at the rear, with small flaps reducing turbulence behind the bike and minimizing drag. For those seeking minimal storage on their M 1000 XR, there is soft luggage available, secured with straps and discreet brackets.

How is the basic comfort on the saddle of the BMW M 1000 XR? The riding position is comfortably upright, with a slightly acute knee angle that falls within an acceptable range. However, you sit low on the bike in a well-defined position, with the M seat offering minimal room for adjusting your position forwards or backwards. You can only move sideways to adopt a hang-off riding style for acceleration. Despite this, the seat itself, at a height of 850 millimeters, is not overly firm, allowing you to ride the M XR for extended periods without discomfort. There is a simple windshield adjustment mechanism, but even in the highest position, at my height of 1.85 m, it directs wind towards my helmet, creating significant noise on highways. Nevertheless, if you are not sensitive to noise or have knee issues, you can comfortably ride the M 1000 XR for longer distances, as its fuel consumption is only slightly higher than that of the S 1000 XR. Both models share the same 20-liter tank, with consumption increasing only slightly from 6.2 to 6.5 l/100km despite the 201 horsepower output.

While the M 1000 XR already comes equipped with top-of-the-line features as standard, there is always room for more. Especially with the M Competition package, which includes carbon rims, carbon trim parts for a new look, M milled parts, and a GPS Laptrigger activated by a code. Approximately 50% of M 1000 XR buyers opt for this package, priced at €6,160. Additionally, the following optional extras are available for the M 1000 XR:

• M Lenkerendenspiegel
• M Sportsitz niedrig mit 820 Millimeter Sitzhöhe
• M Sportsitz hoch mit 870 Millimeter Sitzhöhe
• Serie S1000XR Windschutzscheibe (nicht mit M Competition-Paket)
• M Carbonräder einzeln
• Vorbereitung für Navigationsgerät
• Diebstahlwarnanlage

The question of whether such extreme bikes make sense is often asked. But this is quickly answered: Does anyone need a 201 Horsepower sporttourer? No. Yet the sales statistics clearly show that there is a demand for such machines. In 2023, more M 1000 XR models were sold than S 1000 R models and BMW expects the ratio to level out at 50:50. Will the XR be as successful? It's difficult to predict, as the touring segment has different customer requirements, even with all its sportiness. But not every bike has to be sensible and explainable, you can also simply enjoy this blatant toy for sporty bikers. With a price starting at €30,650 in Austria (German and Swiss prices for the M 1000 XR 2024 can be found here), it is reserved for the more affluent part of the motorcyclist population, but I would advise any rider who enjoys sporty riding to take the M 1000 XR for a test ride if the opportunity arises. You have to experience engineering and motorcycle technology at its best. "Are you crazy" moment guaranteed!