BMW S1000 XR arrives with more power, overhauled design

The 2024 BMW S1000 XR has been launched by the Bavarian brand, with updates cited across the design, from the handlebars to the engine.

The latter update is probably the headliner, with a 5bhp increase over the previous generation, taking the total figure to 170bhp which puts the bike exactly equal to the Ducati Multistrada V4. It does, though, make that power slightly higher in the rev range, at 11,000rpm compared to the Multi V4’s 10,500rpm. The peak torque figure for the 2024 S1000 XR is unchanged at 84lb ft, arriving at 9,250rpm. 

Ergonomics are adjusted, with an increase in seat height of 10mm from 840mm to 850mm. The seat itself is widened and lengthened, to provide “more space for the buttocks,” BMW says in its own press release. Yes, really. 

BMW’s recent trend in its Motorrad division has been to ‘motorsportify’ everything, with wings and unmanageable power being brought to its other models in the 1000cc inline-four cylinder range such as the M1000 RR and M1000 R. For the S1000 XR, the power is not earth-shattering (as mentioned, it is comparable to its rivals), and there are no wings, but there are new side panels and air intakes at the rear section that BMW says are inspired by motorsports.

Following on in that motorsport theme, BMW has an M package available for the S1000 XR in 2024, which includes M Carbon wheels, a ‘Lightwhite solid paint/Motorsport’ paint job, and an M seat. If you want to take things further (and spend a lot more money), there’s also now the option of a 201bhp M1000 XR. 

Refinements have also been made to the Shift Assistant Pro, handlebar clamp, and radiator cover which has a new, textured exterior. The battery capacity is also increased from 9Ah to 12Ah, and a number of previous options are now standard. These include Keyless Ride, a USB charging port, and Headlight Pro.

The standard colours for the S1000 XR are ‘Blackstorm Metallic’ and ‘Gravityblue Metallic’.

It’s priced from £16,790 and should be in dealers around spring 2024.

2024 BMW S1000 XR new features

• Engine power increased by 5bhp to 170bhp at 11,000rpm
• The intake channels have been modified.
• Optimised Shift Assistant Pro
• Improved ergonomics and freedom of movement with a redesigned seat (850 mm seat height instead of the previous 840 mm).
• Optimised spring strut 
• New, sportier design on the rear section with new side panels and air intakes
• Redesigned handlebar clamp
• Front “beak” is now painted in the body colour
• Radiator cover has a new, textured surface
• New battery with 12Ah capacity instead of the previous 9Ah
• M Carbon wheels available as optional equipment or Original BMW Motorrad Accessories
• Keyless Ride is standard
• USB charging port is standard
• Headlight Pro is standard
• E-Call now also available in the US
• Use of the M GPS Laptrigger is possible
• New colour options: ‘Blackstorm Metallic’, ‘Gravityblue Metallic’ and ‘Lightwhite Solid Paint/Motorsport’

2024 BMW S 1000 XR specs