Expert Review
BMW S1000RR Super Sports (2015 - 2018) review
The original S1000RR revolutionised superbikes in 2010. This latest third generation version keeps it at the top of the tree.
Words by: Phil West
Published on 17 November 2015 | 0 min read
The Auto Trader expert verdict:
4.5
BMW came from nowhere to leap to the top of the superbike tree with its first awesome S1000RR in 2010. Although conventional in layout (transverse four, twin spar alloy frame etc), its class-leading power and electronics have kept it there ever since. This latest, third generation version, looks familiar but is improved in every way.
Reasons to buy:
- Faultless all-round sports ability
- Brilliant and ultra-sophisticated electronics package
- BMW build quality and customer service
Design
Despite BMW’s history of innovation and alternative technology (eg Telelever) when it came to its first superbike the German marque was utterly conventional, the S1000RR following a familiar transverse four engine/alloy twin spar frame/telescopic forks/monoshock rear suspension formula. Instead, what set it apart in 2010 (and ever since) was the sheer potency of its execution, its ultra-sophisticated electronic rider aids and optional extras and its quirky, ‘assymetrical’ styling, most obviously its non-matching headlamps and, fairing vents and so on.
Expert rating: 4/5
Riding position
Rider ergonomics are typical litre-class superbike in looking fairly extremely canted forward. In truth, however, many aren’t as extreme as this looks and the RR’s among the roomiest of this type. No sofa, admittedly, the seat’s fairly thin and your wrists will eventually ache with just ‘normal’ riding, but for the type it’s pretty good. Better yet, being a high-end BMW, the RR’s more adjustable than most as well.
Expert rating: 5/5
Practicality
The RR’s a full-on superbike so there’s only so much practicality you can reasonably expect. The riding position is fairly no-compromise, weather protection and comfort is minimal, there’s no luggage provision (nor much for a pillion either truth be told) and it’s neither comfortable or at its best when merely commuting or cutting through town traffic. That all said, the RR also functions perfectly, fuels well even from very low down and is nowhere near as full-on as its image suggests – it’s surprisingly easy to ride and even has options like heated grips and cruise control.
Expert rating: 4/5
Performance & braking
“This is near-as-dammit the fastest superbike around”
Updated with a new top end in 2015 the 999cc four now delivers a breathtaking 199bhp. Fierce as that sounds there’s also a broad spread of torque and the updated electronics (power modes, anti-wheelie, traction control and more) means there’s little to fear. This is near-as-dammit the fastest superbike around but is also less intimidating than more extreme superbikes like, say, Aprilia’s RSV4, Ducati’s Panigale or Yamaha’s latest R1. Brakes are the ubiquitous, virtually faultless and immensely powerful radially-mounted Brembos.
Expert rating: 5/5
Ride & handling
“This is about as extreme, sport-focussed and firm as bikes get”
Again, the RR is a cutting-edge superbike, so this is about as extreme, sport-focussed and firm as bikes get. Updated with a lighter frame, sharper geometry, longer wheelbase and revised forks and shock, the latest RR delivers brilliantly sharp handling. Instead what sets the latest RR apart from the pack, however, is its cutting-edge electronics and optional and brilliant semi-active suspension system, which gives a plusher ride than most.
Expert rating: 5/5
Running costs
BMWs and cutting-edge superbikes do not combine for a cheap ownership proposition. With nearly 200bhp on tap you can expect a healthy appetite for consumables such as tyres, chain, brake pads and so on, insurance isn’t cheap, fuel consumption is higher than most and servicing is more expensive than most as well. On the plus side, BMW residuals are also better than most and the RR remains in strong demand so depreciation won’t be too much of a problem.
Expert rating: 4/5
