2021 BMW M 1000 RR First Look Preview

BMW M cars are synonymous with track-grade performance off the showroom floor. And after years of talking about it, the Motorrad division applies this coveted M designation to its liter-class sportbike in the 2021 BMW M 1000 RR.

“Our standard double R is a sign of real superiority—both in near-series motorsports and on the road,” says the M 1000 RR Overall Vehicle Development manager, Stephan Loistl. “With the M RR we have managed to go one better in every single discipline. It is lighter, faster, simply consistently trimmed for performance—which you can feel from the first meter.”

Related: 2019 BMW S1000RR First Look

The M version superbike benefits from an hopped-up 999cc inline-four engine that employs new double-ring forged Mahle pistons that move with lighter titanium connecting rods. The cylinder head has been massaged so it flows more fuel. Spent exhaust gases pass through lighter titanium valves. BMW’s ShiftCam variable intake valve train continues to be employed, however the timing has been modified. The M 1000 RR boasts a 500 rpm higher ceiling (15,100 rpm). BMW says the engine is good for 212 hp.

Downforce-generating carbon fiber winglets have been added to the fairings and produce 24.9 pounds of force at 155.3 mph. This helps mitigate power wheelies and increases front tire load during high-speed braking. A taller windscreen was also added.

Related: 2020 BMW S 1000 RR MC Commute Review

The M 1000 RR also benefits from enhanced chassis design. Rake and fork offset have been tweaked and the wheelbase has been extended courtesy a longer swingarm, with pivot angle adjustment. Suspension components and M-spec triple-disc brakes are also new. Made by Nissin, the brake hardware is similar to what BMW runs in World Superbike competition. It rolls on carbon fiber wheels that were available as an option on the original 2020 S 1000 RR.

All told the M 1000 RR weighs 423.3 pounds with a full tank of fuel. That is 3.3 pounds less than the already light S 1000 RR which we tested during the 2020 BMW S 1000 RR First Ride Review.