2015 BMW S1000XR breaks cover at EICMA

After being the subject of speculative reports and spy photographers for quite some time, the BMW S1000XR has finally been revealed at the ongoing EICMA Show in Milan. Aimed at the Ducati Multistrada, Aprilia Caponord and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure, the S1000XR will be targeted at a touring audience rather than hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

Despite what the name hints, the S1000XR doesn’t share a lot with the S1000RR superbike. It has been built around a completely new frame with a new swingarm and geometry. It does borrow the S1000RR’s 999cc inline-four engine, though it has been detuned to produce 160bhp and 112.5Nm of torque and comes mated to a six-speed gearbox.

To lend the motorcycle an adventure-bike look and an upright riding position, the S1000XR gets longer suspension travel at both the ends and high set handlebars. The 17-inch alloy wheels and the tyres indicate that the motorcycle is meant to stay on the tarmac more often, than wander off it. The electronics package includes dynamic traction control, cornering ABS and switchable riding modes, to suit different kinds of weather and riding conditions. It also gets a massive 20-litre fuel tank to reduce the number of fuel stops.

Despite already having a dedicated adventure motorcycle, i.e. the R1200GS, in its line-up, BMW has expanded into the fast growing adventure-touring segment with the S1000XR. This should definitely widen the company’s audience and help the German manufacturer generate volumes. The S1000XR will be available in two paint schemes - red and white and with ‘Touring’ and ‘Dynamic’ package, which includes a number of customising options for the customer.