car news

BMW M 1000 RR even sharper and faster

October 12, 2022

The redeveloped M 1000 RR, or M RR for short, is a new milestone for BMW Motorrad when it comes to homologation of superbikes for the World Superbike Championship. Thanks to targeted stylistic modifications, drag has been reduced for even greater stability and a higher top speed of 314 km/h. There are two versions to choose from: the M RR and the M RR M Competition. The Dutch starting price of the BMW M 1000 RR is €39,800, and the motorcycle will be available in the Netherlands from the second quarter of 2023.

Wind tunnel tests

“We have delivered an engineering feat of the highest order with the new M RR and especially in terms of aerodynamic development, thanks to our constant ambition, total passion and technical finesse. Countless hours of testing in the wind tunnel and on the road have enabled us to significantly increase top speed with unchanged engine power. At the same time, downforce has been significantly increased, even with the engine leaning in corners. Our development work will be rewarded with racing success,” said Christian Gonschor, Project Management M 1000 RR.

Built for racing

The M RR features the familiar liquid-cooled 4-cylinder in-line engine designed for racing and specifically in the World Superbike Championship. Power is still 156 kW (212 hp) at 14,500 rpm. The chassis consists of an aluminum bridge frame with an upside-down front fork and a center-spring rear leg with Full Floater Pro kinematics. The new M RR base version is finished in the base color Lightwhite non-metallic and the M RR M Competition is identified by the base color Blackstorm metallic.

Higher top speed

The increased potential of the M RR is mainly due to aerodynamic improvements. In particular, the more streamlined fairing panels, made of exposed carbon, and a taller windshield increase top speed along with optimized airflow around the rider. The panel supports are also made of the lightweight yet very sturdy carbon for the first time. The top speed increased from 306 km/h to 314 km/h due to these interventions. At the same time, the rider of the M RR experiences noticeably less wind pressure on the body.

More downforce

The M winglets have also been completely revised. These now generate more downforce – both going straight and cornering. The rider experiences more front wheel grip, so they will take corners flatter and faster with more confidence and experience less tendency to wheelie when accelerating. Aerodynamics have also been improved around the front wheel. Here we see air intakes for cooling the brakes. These Brake Ducts are integrated into the front fender panels extended along the front fork that also provide improved airflow around the struts and calipers. M Aero Wheel Covers, which are also made of exposed carbon, further reduce drag – especially at speeds above 250 km/h. The M Aero Wheel Covers are reserved for the M RR M Competition.

M carbon wheels

On the new M RR, the M carbon wheels stand out with a new transparent paint coating and rim tape in M Design. Optionally, the M RR can be ordered with forged aluminum wheels. The short license plate holder and an ergonomic M Endurance saddle are also new features. Modified wiring with LWS connector makes the license plate holder with lights faster and easier to disassemble for track use.