Motorcycle specifications BMWS 1000 R 2025 The finished work?

BMW's big, sporty roadster is a legend. Firstly, because it has always benefited from the excellent foundations of the brand's Superbike, from which it derives, but also because of its looks, which have ranged from the chronicled (which some even described as ugly) to the insipid, like the previous version, which already dates back to 2021! In short, this super small car has never been as convincing on the plastic front as the sometimes less effective Italians.

But for 2025, this anomaly finally seems to have been corrected. The Germans have come up with a line that's sure to make everyone on the Joe Bar Team agree! This new style is accompanied by a slight increase in power, improved electronics and barely perceptible price inflation. Phew!

Making new out of old

Throw in a snazzy dauber and a new dual LED headlamp, and you've got the impression that this hyper-excited roadster is brand new! And yet, on closer inspection, apart from the front end, the bike remains (almost) unchanged. So if you've got nice eyes, you're not quite the same..

The S 1000 R returns to its first love, with a horizontal double headlamp in place of the headlight inspired by its little sister, the F 900 R, which appeared in 2020. The idea of creating a hierarchy in the range has undoubtedly also played a part in making the S 1000 R more exclusive, with an identity all its own.

In detail, the two small (symmetrical) headlamps are integrated into a minimalist black forkhead, which extends into the 6.5-inch TFT display that serves as the instrument panel. In the center of this small forkhead, a recess housing the R logo completes the picture. The screen is capable of displaying a multitude of information, such as real-time steering angle, maximum steering angle and deceleration force. This information is best followed once you've reached your destination, so you don't have to take your eyes off the road all the time.

Another change is that the engine cowling is now a little longer (optional in the Dynamic Pack, or on its own at 190 euros) to return towards the crankcase, while the upper scoop is slightly shorter (standard) to show off the frame. The already sculptural rear end is enhanced by a new, shorter plate holder. The seat hides a USB-C socket.

The new S 1000 R is offered in three colors. Black as standard with Blackstorm metallic paint, then the Sport variant in Bluefire/Mugiallo Yellow (optional at €450), and in combination with the M pack, the M Motorsport color billed at €3,160.

Euro5+ but more horsepower!

Where standards tend to be castrating for engineers who don't rack their brains too much, German technology once again proves its credentials. Not only is the big 4-cylinder cleaner, it's also more powerful... At the same time, it's not that complicated, since the sports car pumps out 210 horsepower from the same block (albeit with the help of Shiftcam variable valve timing).

Here, 999 cm3 are used, and power is increased by 5 hp to 170 hp at 11,000 rpm. Torque remains at 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm. A shorter final drive ratio improves acceleration performance (17/46). Add to this the new short-throw throttle control (58° instead of 72°), and you'll understand that the roadster turns into a bazooka, and satellites you with every goret-like twist of the throttle!

Even more steering assistance, but a limited shifter (standard)!

The range of electronic aids is so extensive that it would take a book in several volumes to cover them all in detail. In addition to engine modes and traction control managed by a 6-axis inertial unit, the S 1000 R now comes with MSR torque control as standard, which prevents the rear wheel from slipping due to engine braking, complementing the anti-dribble clutch. The level of engine braking intervention is adjusted in conjunction with the MSR and defined according to four modes.

On the other hand, BMW still hasn't managed to offer an Up & Down shifter as standard on its roadster, when an "economical" Hornet 1000 SP does! You'll have to make do with upshift assistance only, or else.... To benefit from the pompously named "Pro Shift Assistant", you'll need to purchase the "Dynamic Pack" option, which costs 1,450 euros (and includes a few other electronic refinements).

Quite a combo at 16,900 euros

If you're looking for a handsome, sporty and techno-savvy 4-cylinder roadster, this S 1000 R 2025 is a cocktail you'll want to try. The bike is finally attractive, and contrary to the brand's image, it's "less" expensive than it looks.

Key points evolution 2025 - BMW S 1000 R

• Dual-flow LED headlight
• Euro 5+ emissions compliance
• 170 hp (+5 hp)
• Short-stroke M throttle (58-degree angle of rotation)
• Engine braking torque control (MSR)
• Shorter final drive ratio

Vincent Beaucousin - Manufacturer's photos