When the BMW S1000R first hit the scene, it was clearly aimed at the street. I first threw a leg over one at the Long Beach Motorcycle Show after trying out its big brother, the RR, at California Superbike School back in 2015. Even then, the S1K stood out as a different kind of machine—built for...
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When the BMW S1000R first hit the scene, it was clearly aimed at the street. I first threw a leg over one at the Long Beach Motorcycle Show after trying out its big brother, the RR, at California Superbike School back in 2015. Even then, the S1K stood out as a different kind of machine—built for real-world riding rather than track glory. It launched with features like semi-electronic suspension, dynamic damping control, multiple ride modes, and even lean-sensitive traction control and ABS. That kind of tech was a big deal back then and gave the bike a sense of safety and confidence that really mattered on public roads.
I picked up my 2020 model brand new. Before that, I owned a Ducati Multistrada with Skyhook suspension, which was great in its own right—but the S1K felt immediately more planted in the canyons and more stable overall. What surprised me most, though, was how comfortable it was. Compared to the RR or even the XR, the S1K made more sense for both my commute and my weekend rides.
For how I ride—spirited canyon runs and everyday commuting—I actually preferred the S1K’s powerband over the RR and XR. It’s just more responsive and usable in the rev range where you live most of the time. You don’t have to wring it out to enjoy it. It’s a smoother, more intuitive experience that suits both aggressive and relaxed riding.
At around 440 pounds wet with a 20-liter aluminum tank, the bike strikes a great balance. The electronics suite includes Road and Rain modes, ABS, and basic traction control. The optional Dynamic Package adds Dynamic and Dynamic Pro modes, which let you dial things in further. And switching between settings is easy—just a tap of the suspension button on the bars.
Even after more than a decade, the styling still looks sharp. I’ve always loved the aggressive, asymmetrical design—bold, wild, and totally BMW. It’s functional too, not just for show. The bike uses BMW’s low-maintenance Enduro chain, and the engine still sounds and feels modern. It’s not a traditional beauty queen, but what it may lack in curves, it absolutely makes up for in the way it rides. That said, the bike really does still feel modern—like something that could have been released today. It’s quick, polished, and fun. The vibration you get through the handlebars actually encourages a lighter touch, which helps you stay loose and in control. Even with the stock exhaust, the sound is great—and the Akrapovič can delivers some lovely pops when you roll off the throttle.
This is a true high-performance naked bike. Some have called it too refined or lacking character, but I’ve found the experience to be uniquely satisfying. The power is strong and steady across the rev range, even if it doesn’t have quite the punch of BMW’s newer ShiftCam engines down low. The ride itself is very user-friendly. The clutch is light, the brakes are strong and progressive, and even the rear brake is surprisingly useful.
Rolling on the throttle in any gear gives you a deep, satisfying growl from the airbox. The Akrapovič exhaust adds some drama with tasteful pops on deceleration, and the upgraded Brembo RC 19 master cylinder really brings the stock brakes to life. Braking feel and control are excellent. Since owning the bike, I’ve put it through all kinds of riding—from hard canyon sessions to highway commuting and light touring—and it’s handled all of it with ease.
Day-to-day, the S1K is easier to live with than you might expect. Heated grips and cruise control are standard, and the overall noise level is tame enough not to draw unwanted attention. The throttle can be a little sharp over rough pavement, but the chassis remains composed and planted. It’s not the fastest-turning bike, but it’s steady, predictable, and inspires confidence. The power delivery is smooth and linear across all six gears, making it easy to ride fast without surprises. A quick-swap taller windscreen also helps cut down on fatigue—something every naked bike rider will appreciate on longer rides.
Even the dashboard, which some may call dated, has its charm. I love the analog white tachometer—it’s cool to watch and way more engaging than many of the overly busy digital displays out there. If you’re someone who really wants more screen real estate, there are CarPlay-enabled add-ons that can give you that, but honestly, they’re not necessary to enjoy this bike to the fullest.
The S1000R might not be the flashiest new toy on the market, but it delivers in all the right ways. It’s a well-rounded, real-world performer with just enough edge to keep things exciting—refined, but never boring.
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