2012 BMW S 1000 RR First Look

BMW Motorrad took the wraps off its 2012 S 1000 RR today, an updated machine it claims engineers have been developing for years now. A number of minor changes have been incorporated into the 2012 model which are said to increase rideability as well as overall handling – the RR’s engine power delivery has been revamped, its suspension has been fine-tuned and its geometry altered ever so slightly. Styling updates have also been made and the S 1000 RR will now come with a number of options that were previously unavailable, including a “best lap in progress” feature and “speedwarning” function.

The most drastic changes to the 2012 BMW S 1000 RR are those that have been made to the bike’s engine power delivery. While the previous generation RR had a total of four throttle curves (one for each riding mode), the new model features just two: one for Rain mode and one for Sport, Race and Slick mode. The throttle valve also runs a supporting spring with a lower spring rate and the throttle now has a shorter pull. BMW engineers claim the advantage of running just two throttle curves is that the rider will have to adapt less to the power delivery when switching between modes.

Overall power has not been changed, and the 2012 model puts out a claimed 193 horsepower at the crankshaft. In Rain mode, the new S 1000 RR provides a told 163 horsepower. Compare that to the previous model, which provided “only” 152 horsepower in said mode. The bike runs three torque curves for 2012 rather than the 2011 model’s two. Speaking of torque; the bike is said to be especially stronger between 5000 and 7500 rpm thanks to a modified airbox, larger air intake ports and new gearing (a 45-tooth rear sprocket replaces the 2011 model‘s 44-tooth rear sprocket). A series of modifications to the bike’s combustion control means new engine braking characteristics in Slick mode, the only mode to receive such a change. Other changes include a new stainless steel exhaust system which runs a redesigned catalytic converter and head pipes.

The 2012 S 1000 RR’s wheelie control program has been modified. “When wheelie detection engages, the throttle valves open much more gently,” claims BMW. The manufacturer also claims that the “Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) has been optimized for greater riding and control performance in Race and Slick mode.”

The BMW’s suspension has been updated to provide more stability as well as enhanced steering characteristics. Internal friction has been minimized and the new suspension is said to provide more linear adjustments. A new frame with an altered steering head angle (from 23.9 degrees to 24 degrees) is matched with reduced triple clamp offset (by 2.5mm) that increases trail from 95.9mm to 98.5mm for more stability. The Sachs fork (which now runs a mid-speed damping valve for more precise damping characteristics) protrudes from the revised triple clamp an additional 5mm for additional chassis ride height adjustability. The shock is now shorter, plus runs a larger 18mm piston (compare this with the previous generation’s 14mm example). New needle geometry provides a “more linear buildup of damping force,” claims BMW.

A number of other small changes look to keep the S 1000 RR at the forefront of its category. A new mechanical steering damper, for instance, has been fitted. The unit is adjustable over ten levels and allows the rider to better configure the bike to his/her riding style and the given situation. Additional features include the “best lap in progress” program and “speedwarning” function . With the former option, riders are able to see in real time (100 meter intervals) whether or not they are going faster or slower than their fastest lap so far. “When the current time is better, the ‘best lap in progress’ lamp lights up green.” The lamp does not illuminate at all when that segment’s time is slower than that of your fastest lap. The “speedwarning” function allows the rider to indicate the speed limit. When the rider exceeds that indicated speed, the shift lamp will light up, warning the rider that it‘s time to roll out of the throttle.

The 2012 S 1000 RR will be made available in four versions; a red/white version, “bluefire” blue, sapphire black metallic and BMW Motorrad colors. Price was yet to be disclosed when the press material was distributed.

Members of the press are currently circulating the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain and we will have a First Impression review in due time. Stay tuned.