2021 BMW S 1000 R rocket launches with competitive price tag

German giant expands offerings of its popular naked bike, introduces M flagship

BMW’s second-generation S 1000 R naked bike has arrived with less weight, more performance and technology, a greater choice of variants and an entry price that’s $1740 more affordable than its popular asymmetrical-eyed predecessor.

The 2021 BMW S 1000 R is available now in four spec levels, priced from $20,650 for the standard S 1000 R to $31,990 (plus on-road costs) for the flagship S 1000 R M Sport, which is distinguished most notably by its exclusive ‘Light White/ M Motorsport’ livery and M carbon wheels as standard.

The range-topping S 1000 R M Sport

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As we’ve reported, the 2021 BMW S 1000 R sheds five kilograms of weight to 199kg (194kg for the S 1000 R M Sport), while peak outputs from its 999cc inline four-cylinder engine are unchanged at 121kW (165hp) of power at 11,000rpm and 114Nm of torque at 9250rpm. More significantly, however, at least 90Nm – or almost 80 per cent of peak torque – is available between 5500 and 12,000rpm, according to BMW, for maximum flexibility during the daily commute, spirited ride or track day.

Complementing this are taller fourth, fifth and sixth gear ratios, while an all-new exhaust accounts for 1.2kg of weight saving. Further weight reductions come from a new chassis and underslung swingarm, both of which are based on the S 1000 RR sportsbike. The new frame is narrower than the previous model’s for improved ergonomics, and the rear shock is located further away from the engine and the swingarm’s pivot point.

The S 1000 R checks in at a competitive price

With the exception of the entry-level model, BMW’s new naked bike features an anti-hopping clutch, engine drag torque control to prevent rear-wheel skipping during abrupt downshifts and a two-way quickshifter as standard.

Furthermore, all 2021 S 1000 R variants feature a host of high-level tech including three switchable modes (Rain, Road and Dynamic); ABS Pro and traction control (both of which comprise an extremely handy cornering function) as well as a 6.5-inch TFT screen as seen in other BMW models.

Equipment such as an adaptive headlight, keyless ride, heated grips and cruise control are standard on subsequent models. See below for the full rundown.

The 2021 BMW S 1000 R range

2021 BMW S 1000 R range:

S 1000 R From $20,650
• Cast aluminium wheels
• Dynamic Traction Control
• ABS Pro
• Race ABS
• Rear compression and preload adjustable, upside down fork
• Steering stabiliser
• Dynamic brake light
• Electronic immobiliser
• Colour TFT screen with connectivity
• USB charging socket
• LED lighting
• Drop sensor
• Three riding modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic)
• Adjustable hand levers
• Detachable licence plate holder
• Hill Start Control
• Reverse shift-pattern ready
• 16.5-litre fuel tank
• 830mm seat height
• Passenger Kit
Optional equipment:
• Anti-theft alarm system: $375

S 1000 R Sport From $24,390
Includes all standard equipment from the S 1000 R and adds:
• Adaptive headlight
• Daytime Riding Light
• Headlight Pro
• Tyre Pressure Monitor
• Comfort Package (Keyless ride, heated grips and cruise control)
• Dynamic Package (Gearshift assistant ‘Pro’, Dynamic damping control, riding modes ‘Pro’ and engine spoiler)
Optional equipment:
• Sport silencer: $1325
• Anti-theft alarm system: $375

S 1000 R Race From $26,890
Includes all standard equipment from the S 1000 R Sport and adds:
• M Endurance Chain
• M battery
• M Forged wheels
Optional equipment:
• Sport silencer: $1325
• Anti-theft alarm system: $375
• Carbon Package: $2250
• M Billet Package: $1475

S 1000 R M Sport From $31,990
Includes all standard equipment from the S 1000 R Race (except the Passenger Kit) and adds:
• M Package (M Endurance Chain, M GPS-lap trigger, Sport silencer, M Sport seat, M battery and M carbon wheels)
Optional equipment:
• Anti-theft alarm system: $375
• Carbon Package: $2250
• M Billet Package: $1475