BMW M1000RR homologation special targets range-topping Ducatis

BMW have unveiled the M1000RR – a tuned, lightweight, hyper-expensive version of their S1000RR that officially stretches their M range from four wheels to two.

Built to dominate on the track for everyone from privateers to WSB teams, the M-RR has been designed as a no compromise racing machine – although if you want to rip it up on the road, it’s got indicators and a numberplate too. Sitting inside the growling belly of the beast is a redesigned version of the 999cc ShiftCam engine out of the S1000RR.

Through a long list of changes including shorter forged pistons, adapted combustion chambers, longer and lighter conrods, new rocker arms, altered cam profiles, increased compression ratio and reprofiled intake ports, BMW have found 500 more rpm and five more horses.

The power curve has shifted slightly too, with a bit more of it found in the top end, which is better for racing, plus they’ve gone one tooth bigger at the back for more va-va-voom. It now breathes through a full titanium Akrapovic system, which alone has helped to remove nearly 4kg of mass. There are fresh electronics, too – including some flashy Race Pro modes that are only unlocked when you dispense with the road-going parts. Inside those you can alter almost every possible parameter, with throttle response, engine braking and power delivery differing between gears.

Also aimed at the racetrack are the new carbon fibre winglets which offer up to 16.3kg downforce (at track speeds). Chassis set up has also been modified for better high-speed handling with a flatter head angle, reduced fork offset and a longer, single-piece swingarm. Weight distribution has been shifted back, perhaps to offset issues teams were having with rear wheel lift. Meanwhile, braking duties are now taken on by new calipers developed with WSB team suppliers Nissin, delivered in the M Sport blue. There’s also a heap of extras including a Competition pack, kit engines, lap timers and even a WSB level race kit.

In a startling twist though, compared to similar bikes, it’s not actually crazy money. At just shy of £31,000 it’s nearly four grand cheaper than a Panigale V4R.