2023 BMW S 1000 RR | First Look Review

2023 BMW S 1000 RR in Style Passion in Racing Red.

Following BMW’s announcement in July of updates to select 2023 models, the company announced today an updated 2023 BMW S 1000 RR with enhancements to the chassis, suspension, aerodynamics, and electronic assist systems.

“With an advanced suspension and chassis, the new Brake Slide Assist and DTC Slide Control assistance systems as well as optimized aerodynamics with winglets and a redesigned rear end, we are able to raise the RR’s performance to a new level,” Wolfgang Wallner, project manager for the 2023 BMW S 1000 RR, said in a media statement.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR in Lighwhite BMW M.

The new BMW S 1000 RR still features a 999cc inline-Four with a 6-speed gearbox delivering a claimed 205 hp at 13,000 rpm and 83 lb-ft of torque at 11,000 rpm, as well as BMW’s variable valve timing and valve stroke ShiftCam technology, producing increased torque in the low- to mid-range and increased top-end power.

However, new to the 2023 model, increased rear wheel traction in all gears is provided by a shorter secondary gear ratio through the use of a sprocket with 46 instead of 45 teeth, and intake ducts and funnels have been redesigned, modeled on the M RR engine, in order to optimize the air charge and power generation, especially at higher engine speeds.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR in Style Passion in Racing Red.

As with the previous model, the 2023 BMW S 1000 RR has four ride modes –  Rain, Road, Dynamic, and Race – with optional “Pro” race modes. Dynamic Traction Control is also standard, but new for 2023 is the Slide Control function that uses a steering angle sensor for drifts while accelerating. The new S 1000 RR also features two standard throttle maps that are linked to the ride modes and adjust throttle response and drive torque.

The optional “Pro” modes include DBC Dynamic Brake Control, but ABS Pro is now standard with the new model, preventing the wheels from locking even when braking hard in a leaning position. And the new Brake Slide Assist function acts in a similar way to the Slide Control function, using steering angle sensors to allow the rider to set a specific drift angle for so-called braking drifts while sliding into corners at a maintained speed. Stopping power is still provided by 320mm discs and two radially mounted 4-piston fixed calipers in the front and a 220mm disc and single-piston floating caliper in the rear.

The 2023 BMW S 1000 RR also still features standard Hill Start Control (optional Hill Start Control Pro), Shift Assistant Pro, and Launch Control.

The S 1000 RR was not only improved in terms of overall performance but also with regard to the chassis and suspension. Introduced in 2020, the Flex Frame, designed to increase the load-bearing function of the engine, has been given more flex, as well several new openings in the side areas.

For the new chassis, rake was increased by 0.5 degree (23.6 degrees vs. 23.1 before) and the offset of the triple clamps has been reduced by 0.1 inch. Trail was increased from 3.7 inches to 3.9. At the same time, the wheelbase was extended by 0.7 inch to 57.4 inches.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR in Lighwhite BMW M.

As with before, rear wheel control is managed by a gravity diecast swingarm derived from racing. Suspension and damping are provided by a central spring and shock with adjustable spring base, damping, rebound, and compression. The rebound and compression can still be adjusted by means of a 10-click scaling. The shock is now height-adjustable for enhanced tuning. For easier removal and installation of the rear wheel, the axle bushings on the rear wheel on the right side are now mounted to prevent loss, and the brake pads and the brake anchor plate are chamfered. Rear suspension travel is 4.6 inches.

Also as in the predecessor model, the inverted fork with 45mm slide tubes offers a high degree of brake stability, as well as a stable response and feedback. The fork is fitted with closed-cartridge inserts and adjustment options for the spring rest as well as the damping rebound and compression stage. Front suspension travel is 4.7 inches.

The 2023 BMW S 1000 RR can be equipped with an optional electronically controlled Dynamic Damping Control DDC suspension linked to the riding modes. Suspension tuning can be individualized in all riding modes.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR in Blackstone metallic.

The 2023 BMW S 1000 RR also has optimized aerodynamics with a new front section, winglets, a high windshield, and partitioning of the lower triple clamp.

As with the previous model, the 6.5-inch TFT instrument cluster of the S 1000 RR has four available screen layouts (Pure Ride with the main details and 3 Core screens) and riders can choose what is displayed to suit their needs. As a new comfort function, the last selected screen display is retained after turning off the ignition.

The 6.5-inch TFT display on the 2023 BMW S 1000 RR has all the bells and whistles riders have grown to love.

The design of the 2023 S 1200 RR features a color scheme with three individual characters: the basic variants of Blackstorm metallic, Style Passion in Racing Red non-metallic, and the racing-oriented Lightwhite non-metallic/BMW M. The covers for the alternator and clutch are now black and are featured in all three paintwork finishes.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR in Blackstone metallic.

Pricing has not yet been announced. For more information, visit the BMW Motorcycles website.

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