KIWI RIDER 03 2020 VOL2 | Page 88

ROAD NEWS BMW S1000RR GETS M PERFORMANCE T he M badge has long been synonymous with performance on the four-wheeled side of the BMW family, and now the iconic badge is officially heading into the two-wheeled sector with the announcement of a new parts catalogue for the S1000RR. With the newly announced M Performance Parts accessories range, BMW Motorrad is offering a carefully matched range of special parts for the new BMW S1000RR, with the goal to offer similar performance benefits as those on offer for BMW M cars. These components have been developed with the aim of further enhancing the riding dynamics of the new S1000RR not only for road use but to enhance the race track experience as well. With that in mind, BMW Motorrad says the M Performance Parts accessories range includes parts with a focus on weight reduction but also a number of specialised functional parts. That means there are plenty of carbon fibre parts available for the bodywork, along with carbon fibre replacements for parts such as the airbox cover and chain guard, but also parts that, 88 KIWI RIDER while far less exciting than the lightweight stuff, make the bike easier for the rider with three different seat height options entering the market as well. The M Performance Parts range also includes different footrest versions. The standard footrest system of the S1000RR can be upgraded with the M rider’s footrests left/right and the M passenger footrests left/right. An M rider’s footrest system left/right, especially designed for racetrack use, also offers further ergonomic adjustment options. Likely to make a difference on track, BMW has included two different M Performance wheelsets to optimise acceleration, deceleration, handling as well as suspension and damping response. While the M forged wheel made of high-strength forged aluminium already offers advantages in this respect both at the front and at the rear, the M Carbon front wheel and M Carbon rear wheel made of lightweight carbon fibre should an even more noticeable difference. BMW Motorrad New Zealand has confirmed the new M parts will be available in NZ with most being special order items.