2024 BMW M1000XR Review: The Ultimate Sports Touring Crossover

The 2024 BMW M1000XR is not just another motorcycle; it’s a statement of power, precision, and luxury. This high-performance machine is a supercharged version of BMW’s S1000XR, designed for riders who crave the thrill of a sports bike but also want the comfort and practicality of a touring bike. With a price tag that pushes close to £28,000, the M1000XR is not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying every second of the journey. But is it worth the extra investment over the standard S1000XR? Let’s dive into what makes this bike stand out and who it’s best suited for.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Engine and Performance: A Beast on Two Wheels

The heart of the 2024 BMW M1000XR is its 999cc inline 4 engine, a marvel of modern engineering. This isn’t just any engine; it’s the same powerhouse that you’ll find in BMW’s S1000RR sports bike. The key difference is the ShiftCam variable valve timing system, which allows the engine to switch between different cam profiles depending on the revs and throttle position.

• ShiftCam Technology: This system enables the M1000XR to run on a less aggressive cam profile at lower revs, optimizing fuel economy and reducing emissions. But as the revs climb and the throttle opens up, the system switches to a more aggressive cam profile, delivering an exhilarating surge of power.
• Horsepower: With 211 horsepower at your disposal, the M1000XR is phenomenally quick. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling twisty mountain roads, this bike delivers effortless acceleration and a sense of limitless power.

The engine’s versatility is one of its standout features. While you might not be able to fully unleash all 211 horsepower on public roads, the engine’s responsiveness and power reserves make every ride feel special. The bike is quick, not just in a straight line, but also when changing direction, thanks to its lightweight construction and advanced engineering.

Soundtrack of a Superbike

Riding the M1000XR is as much an auditory experience as it is a physical one. The bike comes equipped with an Akrapovič carbon-tip silencer as standard. While it’s homologated for street use, meaning it’s not excessively loud, it still produces a satisfying roar, especially as the revs rise.

• Exhaust Note: The inline-4 engine produces a raw, aggressive sound that is addictive. The exhaust control valve, located just behind the rider’s footpegs, opens up as needed to enhance the flow and increase the volume, making the bike sound even more thrilling at high revs.
• Self-Restraint Required: With such a powerful engine and an intoxicating exhaust note, it’s easy to get carried away. However, with 200+ horsepower on tap, riders will often need to exercise self-restraint, especially on public roads.

Handling: Precision at Every Turn

Despite its large dimensions, the 2024 BMW M1000XR is surprisingly agile. The bike is built to deliver the sharp handling and quick direction changes that you’d expect from a sports bike, while still offering the comfort and stability of a touring machine.

• Carbon Wheels: The M1000XR comes with carbon wheels as part of the M Competition package. These wheels are 1.4 kg lighter per pair compared to the standard wheels, significantly improving the bike’s handling. Lighter wheels reduce rotating mass, allowing for quicker acceleration and deceleration, as well as more responsive handling.
• Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa 4 Tires: These super sticky tires provide excellent grip, further enhancing the bike’s sporty nature. Combined with the 17-inch front wheel, the bike feels planted and confident in corners.
• Weight: The M1000XR tips the scales at just 223 kg, which is 4 kg less than the standard S1000XR. This weight reduction, combined with the other performance enhancements, makes the bike feel light-footed and responsive.

Braking: Confidence-Inspiring Stopping Power

The braking system on the M1000XR is as impressive as the rest of the bike. BMW has equipped this model with their own M brakes, which are specific to the M line of bikes. These brakes are designed to provide exceptional stopping power, giving riders the confidence to push the bike to its limits.

• Front Brakes: The bike features radially mounted monoblock calipers on 320 mm discs, which are made by Nissin specifically for BMW. The result is a braking system that is both powerful and precise, allowing for quick stops with plenty of feedback.
• Rear Brakes: At the rear, there’s a single-pot caliper on a 220 mm disc, complementing the front brakes and ensuring balanced braking performance.
• Master Cylinder: The Nissin radial master cylinder at the lever further enhances the braking feel, providing consistent pressure and control.

Comfort Meets Performance: A True Crossover

One of the defining characteristics of the M1000XR is its ability to blend performance with comfort. This bike isn’t just about going fast; it’s about doing so in style and comfort.

• Ergonomics: The M1000XR features a seat height of 850 mm, offering plenty of space between the seat and the pegs to keep the knee angle open. This makes the bike comfortable for long rides, even for taller riders. The wide, comfortable handlebars keep your back upright, reducing fatigue on longer journeys.
• Wind Protection: The adjustable windscreen provides decent wind protection, making highway cruising more comfortable. While it might not match a dedicated touring bike like the R1250RT, it offers a good balance of sportiness and comfort.
• Suspension: The Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) system allows you to fine-tune the suspension settings to match your riding conditions. Whether you’re in a sporty mood or just cruising, you can adjust the suspension to suit your needs. The 45 mm upside-down fork from Marzocchi and the monoshock at the rear work together to provide a smooth and controlled ride.

Advanced Technology: A Feature-Rich Ride

The 2024 BMW M1000XR is packed with advanced technology designed to enhance both performance and convenience. BMW has left no stone unturned when it comes to equipping this bike with the latest tech.

• Riding Modes: The M1000XR comes with seven riding modes: Rain, Road, Dynamic, Race, and Race Pro 1, 2, and 3. Each mode adjusts the bike’s settings to match different riding conditions, from wet roads to track days.
• Cornering ABS and Traction Control: These safety features are designed to keep the bike stable and under control, even in challenging conditions. The cornering ABS adjusts the braking force based on lean angle, while the traction control system prevents wheel slip during acceleration.
• Quickshifter and Launch Control: The M1000XR is equipped with a quickshifter for seamless gear changes without using the clutch. Launch control helps you get off the line quickly and efficiently, making the most of the bike’s power.
• TFT Display: The bike features a high-resolution TFT display that provides all the information you need at a glance. The sports layout includes an analog-style rev counter and fun stats like maximum lean angle and rate of deceleration. The display is customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

Practical Features: More Than Just a Performance Bike

While the M1000XR is undoubtedly focused on performance, it doesn’t sacrifice practicality. BMW has included several features that make this bike more usable in everyday situations.

• Heated Grips: Essential for riding in cold weather, the heated grips ensure your hands stay warm and comfortable.
• Cruise Control: Ideal for long highway rides, the cruise control helps reduce fatigue by maintaining a steady speed.
• Hill Hold Control: This feature prevents the bike from rolling back when starting on an incline, making it easier to get moving.
• Keyless Ignition: The M1000XR features keyless ignition, which also controls the fuel filler cap and steering lock for added convenience.
• Cornering Headlights: These lights illuminate the inside of a turn, improving visibility and safety when riding at night.

Aesthetic Appeal: Designed to Impress

The 2024 BMW M1000XR is as much a visual delight as it is a performance machine. BMW has gone the extra mile to ensure that this bike looks as good as it rides.

• M Sport Colors: The bike is available in BMW’s signature M Sport colors, which give it a distinct and aggressive look. The black base color, combined with the iconic blue and red stripes, creates a striking visual contrast.
• Carbon Fiber Components: The M1000XR features several carbon fiber components, including the wheels and winglets, which not only reduce weight but also add to the bike’s exotic appearance.
• M Competition Package: This optional package includes additional carbon fiber parts, a lap timer, and a special paint job, further enhancing the bike’s visual appeal

Who Should Consider the 2024 BMW M1000XR?

The 2024 BMW M1000XR is a motorcycle designed for a very specific type of rider—someone who refuses to compromise on performance but also values comfort and practicality. Here’s a breakdown of who this bike is ideal for:

• Performance Enthusiasts: If you’re a rider who craves the thrill of a superbike but doesn’t want to be confined to the racetrack, the M1000XR offers the best of both worlds. Its 211 horsepower engine and sports-tuned chassis provide an exhilarating riding experience that rivals dedicated sports bikes.
• Long-Distance Tourers: For those who enjoy covering long distances without sacrificing speed, the M1000XR is an excellent choice. Its comfortable ergonomics, advanced suspension system, and practical features like cruise control and heated grips make it ideal for long rides, whether you’re touring across countries or just enjoying a weekend getaway.
• Tech-Savvy Riders: If you appreciate cutting-edge technology, the M1000XR won’t disappoint. With features like cornering ABS, dynamic traction control, and customizable riding modes, this bike is packed with the latest innovations that enhance both safety and performance.
• Style-Conscious Motorcyclists: The M1000XR isn’t just about substance—it’s also about style. With its striking M Sport colors, carbon fiber components, and aggressive design, this bike is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
• Experienced Riders: Given its immense power and advanced features, the M1000XR is best suited for experienced riders who are comfortable handling high-performance machines. Beginners or less experienced riders might find the bike’s power overwhelming.

Pros and Cons: Is the M1000XR Right for You?

Pros:

• Incredible Power: With 211 horsepower, the M1000XR delivers sports bike-level performance in a touring-friendly package.
• Advanced Technology: The bike is equipped with the latest tech, including customizable riding modes, cornering ABS, and a quickshifter.
• Comfortable for Long Rides: Despite its performance focus, the M1000XR offers a comfortable riding position, making it suitable for long-distance touring.
• Striking Aesthetics: The M Sport colors, carbon fiber components, and overall design give the M1000XR a visually appealing and aggressive look.
• Excellent Braking and Handling: The bike’s carbon wheels, advanced suspension, and high-performance brakes make it exceptionally agile and responsive.

Cons:

• High Price: At nearly £28,000, the M1000XR is a significant investment, and its cost might be prohibitive for some riders.
• Overkill for Everyday Riding: The bike’s immense power and advanced features might be more than what’s necessary for everyday commuting or casual riding.
• Requires Experience: The M1000XR’s performance capabilities make it best suited for experienced riders who can fully appreciate and handle its power.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Crossover

The 2024 BMW M1000XR is not just a motorcycle; it’s a masterclass in what a performance touring bike can be. BMW has taken everything that makes the S1000XR a standout and elevated it to the next level with the M1000XR. From its powerful engine and advanced technology to its striking design and comfortable ride, this bike is built for those who want the best of both worlds—sport and touring.

While the price tag is certainly high, the M1000XR offers a level of performance and sophistication that justifies the investment for those who can afford it. Whether you’re carving through mountain roads or cruising on the highway, this bike delivers an experience that few others can match.

For those who demand nothing less than the ultimate riding experience, the 2024 BMW M1000XR stands as a compelling option, blending the best aspects of BMW’s performance heritage with the comfort and practicality of a touring bike. If you’re looking for a machine that can do it all without compromise, the M1000XR deserves a place at the top of your list