Technological fist: BMW's new S 1000 RR in Israel

The new BMW S 1000 RR boasts upgrades in engine, design, and cutting-edge electronics, including innovative controls, with a top-tier version priced similarly to a basic Mini Cooper.

  (photo credit: TOMER FEDER)
(photo credit: TOMER FEDER)

The BMW S 1000 RR is BMW's flagship sports ship, and its racing version competes in the World Superbike Championship and various championships such as the World Endurance Championship. In Israel, as in the world, the S 1000 RR has garnered a large fan base, mainly due to its high performance capabilities and slightly different approach from that of the Japanese - who have dominated the segment for decades.

For the year 2023, BMW unveiled the fourth generation of the S 1000 RR. The base is the third generation, which was introduced 4 years ago in 2019, however, three significant upgrades have been made that elevate the aggressive superbike by several levels and position it at the technological forefront of superbikes.

  (credit: TOMER FEDER)
(credit: TOMER FEDER)

Firstly, the engine has been slightly upgraded, now producing 210 horsepower on a weight of less than 200 kg. BMW continues with the ShiftCam mechanism - a variable valve timing that allows the engine to be not only powerful at the top end of the scale but also flexible in the low and medium ranges.

Secondly, the design is sharpened, maintaining the familiar silhouette of the previous model but receiving aerodynamic winglets - a must-have item in the current trend of sport motorcycles. The aerodynamic winglets create downforce of approximately 17 kg on the front wheel at high speeds, contributing to grip and stability.

  (credit: TOMER FEDER)
(credit: TOMER FEDER)

Third, and no less important, the S 1000 RR receives electronic systems and controls that place it at the forefront of sport motorcycles in particular and the world of motorcycles in general. The four important systems that have been added are control of slide into the turn (slide control), control of slide out of the turn (drift control), stability control under strong braking, and variable engine braking control to allow for more effective stability control and to maintain the motorcycle's stability during strong braking. All of these, of course, have been added to the advanced controls that were on the S 1000 RR before.

We rode the S 1000 RR in M finish level at the global launch on the Almeria circuit in Spain and discovered a sport motorcycle with unparalleled high capabilities that few riders are able to fully utilize. But the important point is not only the high capabilities, but also the ease of riding and the great user-friendliness of the S 1000 RR, allowing every rider to be faster and better. It's also the advanced electronic controls, but also the precise engineering and high-quality components. All of these create an edge sport machine that is also friendly and easy to ride.

  (credit: TOMER FEDER)
(credit: TOMER FEDER)

Last Friday, we also rode the new S 1000 RR here, in a motorsport circuit near Beersheba, as part of the local launch organized by Delta Motors for the press and customers.

At the end of the test ride, there is no doubt that the S 1000 RR is one of the highest performing sport bikes out there, very easy to ride and user-friendly, making it suitable for a relatively wide range of riders. It features some of the most advanced electronic systems and controls in the world of superbikes, and definitely has its own uniqueness that causes a wide audience to become loyal to this specific motorcycle. In conclusion, it is very easy to connect with and navigate the track at high speeds in short times, providing heaps of enjoyment.

  (credit: TOMER FEDER)
(credit: TOMER FEDER)

The BMW S 1000 RR comes to Israel in three trim levels - all of them include all the advanced electronic controls, as well as heated grips and a cruise control system.

The "Pure" black version, which as mentioned includes all the controls and technology, is priced at NIS 164,000 in Israel. The "Fashion" version includes the special red paint and is priced at NIS 166,000.

The Sport M version - which was launched globally - includes a unique tricolor paint of the M Racing Division, as well as an M package including lightweight carbon fiber wheels, Akrapovic exhaust system, numerous carbon parts such as wings and fairings, famous aluminum parts like grips, levers, and more. The weight of the M version is lower, weighing at 193 kg. Its price in Israel is set at NIS 210,000.