2015 BMW S1000XR spotted once again

The 2015 BMW S1000XR has been spotted testing in Europe, once again. Aimed at the Ducati Multistrada, Aprilia Caponord and the upcoming KTM 1290 Super Adventure, the S100XR will be more of an adventure-tourer, rather than a full-blown off-road motorcycle.

The spy pictures show the completely undisguised test mule sporting BMW badges covered in duct tape, which might be an indicator that the motorcycle has reached its production phase. To lend the motorcycle an adventure-bike look and an upright riding position, the S1000XR will get a longer suspension travel and high set handlebars. The 17-inch alloy wheel confirms that it will target a touring audience rather than hardcore off-road enthusiasts. The electronics package is expected to include traction control, ABS and switchable riding modes, to suit all kinds of weather.

The S1000XR will borrow the S1000RR’s 999cc inline-four engine, which is expected to churn out somewhere around 160bhp. The engine will be tuned to suit an adventure-tourer’s characteristics and will be mated to a six-speed gearbox.

Despite already having a dedicated adventure motorcycle (read R1200GS) in its line-up, BMW has opted to utilise the S1000RR superbike’s platform to develop this new motorcycle. While this will surely help the company save development and production costs, it might also lead to cannibalism within its portfolio. The BMW S1000XR is expected to be unveiled at the INTERMOT show in Cologne, Germany, by the end of this month.