BMW is launching a new roadster derived from the S1000RR. It's called S1000R, and it retains most of the former's strengths in the process, while offering friendlier ergonomics.

Just like Aprilia with the RSV4 (Tuono), Yamaha with the R1 (FZ1), and more recently KTM with the RC8R (1290 Super Duke R), BMW turned a superbike into a classic naked bike with raised handlebars, a slightly softer suspension, and a power curve that's easier to exploit. The goal was to achieve the optimum balance of performance and ergonomics for daily riding conditions.


2014 BMW S1000R shows true German know-how
From a design standpoint, the 2014 BMW S1000R isn't too radical or extravagant if you compare it with other naked bikes. BMW took the easy route by emulating all the styling cues of the track variant, including asymmetrical headlights and side fairings, as well as a somewhat low-profile engine.

On the other hand, technology has been the German manufacturer's forte since the launch of the S1000RR in 2009, and later the race-spec HP4. The 2014 BMW S1000R benefits from all the electronic expertise gained over the years, with advanced ABS, rider-selectable modes, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), plus available Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Dynamic Damping Control (DDC).

Canadian championship-winning chassis
The new 2014 BMW S1000R doesn't rely on the Paralever and Telelever suspension systems found on most BMW street bikes. Rather, it borrows the entire S1000RR chassis including the lightweight aluminium composite bridge frame (with a partially self-supporting engine), adjustable upside-down front fork, adjustable rear spring/shock combo, and dual-sided swingarm. As for the Brembo brakes, they consist of dual 320mm discs with radial, 4-piston, fixed calipers up front, and a single 220mm disc with single-piston calliper in the rear.

2014 BMW S1000R gets slightly tamer engine
The 999c inline 4-cylinder engine has been toned down from 193 to 160 hp, while peak torque is accessible 2,000 rpm sooner to make urban riding more pleasant. Although the fuel lines and cam profiles are different, the sequential injection system with two injectors per cylinder is the same. The exhaust, 6-speed transmission, chain final drive, and optional shift assistant also carry over to the 2014 BMW S1000R.

The aforementioned riding modes include Rain, which offers optimum throttle response and ASC/ABS control for excellent acceleration and deceleration on dry pavement, and Road, which limits power to 135 hp and provides gentle throttle response along with sensitive ASC/ABS control on wet surfaces. You can switch between the two through a button near the right handlebar, even on the go (provided that you release the throttle first). The 2014 BMW S1000R also features an exclusive instrument panel with an analog tachometer and digital display (the latter showing the fuel gauge). Note that the redline starts at 12,000 rpm vs. 14,000 rpm on the S1000RR.

Final word on the 2014 BMW S1000R
There's now an all-out war in the blossoming naked bike segment. The beastly 2014 BMW S1000R will arrive in showrooms later this month -- ahead of the Montreal Motorcycle Show -- starting at $14,700.

Photo: BMW