2024 BMW M 1000 XR Review | First Ride

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action
The BMW M 1000 XR blends elite levels of sportbike performance with a relatively comfortable riding position suitable for sport-touring duties.

BMW’s lineup of streetbikes is amazingly diverse, from single-cylinder roadsters all the way up to the supersized R 18 series, so there’s a Beemer for almost anyone. BMW’s all-conquering GS series attracts most of the headlines, but there’s another gem often hidden in the shadows.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR
BMW has packed 201 hp into this sub-500-lb package.

The S 1000 XR was one of the first sporty adventure-tourers on the market, eschewing off-road capability for street performance but with a longer-travel suspension than typical sportbikes. Introduced in 2015, the partially faired XR was based on the S 1000 R roadster using the mighty 999cc inline-Four from the S 1000 RR superbike.  

Related: 2020 BMW S 1000 XR | Tour Test Review

Related: 2023 BMW S 1000 RR and M 1000 R | First Ride Review

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action
The addition of winglets to the fairing provides reassuring downforce at high velocities.

BMW described the XR as an “Adventure Sport Bike,” while we see it as a high-performance sport-touring bike. Whatever term you prefer, the XR has been an outrageously fast way to carve up interstate maps with squiggly lines.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR front wheel
Monoblock brake calipers from Nissin provide impeccable braking feedback and power. Lightweight carbon fiber is used throughout the M 1000 XR when equipped with the M Competition package, including its fenders and wheels.

But when it comes to performance, there’s always a slice of the market that desires the utmost in speed, which is where this new M 1000 XR comes in. Boasting a seriously stout 201 hp, the M version of the XR takes the adventure sportbike theme to a stratospheric level.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR dash
A 6.5-inch TFT instrument panel supplies a variety of displays, including this Race view that shows traction control interventions and real-time lean angles.

“It’s like a racebike with benefits of a crossover,” BMW proclaimed at the M 1000 XR’s recent launch in Spain. Motorrad reps say it’s the lightest and most powerful crossover bike on the market, intended to rule the roost of bikes designed for long-distance high-performance. 

2024 BMW M 1000 XR left controls
Instruments are easily navigated by BMW’s Multi-Controller wheel next to the handgrip. Cruise control is standard equipment.

The S 1000 XR was also updated for 2024, gaining 5 hp to 170 ponies and now retailing for $18,190. But our focus was on the M version, the third M model from BMW Motorrad following the M 1000 RR superbike and the M 1000 R roadster. The S 1000 XR has a curb weight of 500 lb, 8 lb more than the M-XR.  

Related: 2023 BMW S 1000 RR and M 1000 R | First Ride Review

2024 BMW M 1000 XR tank
The XR has this handy storage compartment built into its fuel tank, perfect for carrying the keyless-ignition fob and other small items while out on a ride.

Design | BMW M 1000 XR 

The XR still has a vestigial beak at its nose like ADVs do, but that’s as close to an adventure bike as the XR gets. Instead of a big schnoz masquerading as a front fender, the M 1000 XR has MotoGP-like winglets along the sides of its fairing.  

BMW says the wings generate 41 lb of downforce at the M-XR’s 171-mph top speed, dropping to 25 lb at 137 mph. Probably a negligible amount at highway speeds, but the wings could be helpful at trackdays, which are part of the XR’s design brief.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR footpeg
A trick set of billet aluminum foot controls is part of the M Competition package, which are adjustable for angles and toe lengths.

The bike’s twin-beam aluminum frame remains unchanged, but the powerplant bolted to it has undergone serious hot-rodding based on the M 1000 RR’s mill. BMW’s ShiftCam technology accomplishes the magical feat of maintaining optimal power at lower engine speeds while significantly boosting top-end output.  

Below 9,000 rpm, the motor is directed by camshaft lobes optimized for operating at lower revs. At higher revs, two electromechanical actuators switch the intake valves over to a hotter cam lobe (more lift and different timing) in just 10 milliseconds. The result is favorable torque in low- and medium-speed ranges along with significant gains in peak power.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action
The M 1000 XR is the fastest comfy sportbike on the market.

Further aiding engine output are a set of variable-length intake ducts stolen from the M 1000 RR and M 1000 R, which switch to shorter ducts above 11,000 rpm. The redline takes a leap from the S 1000 XR’s 12,000 rpm to 14,600 rpm, a seriously high engine speed that is aided by lightweight titanium valves. 

Of course, there is no such thing as an inexpensive 200-hp motorcycle. The M 1000 XR has a base price of $24,295, but it doesn’t have to stop there. Preface: Carbon-fiber wheels for a Ferrari 296GTB are a $33,748 option.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action
The M Competition colorway is a sure sign that this isn’t a tame adventure-tourer.

Ordering the M Competition package amps up the bike’s racy nature with a slathering of carbon-fiber trim, from a carbon ignition lock cover and cockpit trim to fenders, bodywork, and even a chain guard. The most expensive bits are the M Carbon wheels, which trim unsprung and inertial mass from the place where it makes the most difference on a motorcycle.  

If you love carbon fiber (or buy Ferraris), the package’s $5,495 price might seem reasonable, and it also includes special billet footpegs, axle protectors, and a lap-timing GPS trigger. Curb weight gets shaved from 492 lb to 485. 

2024 BMW M 1000 XR Akrapovic
The exhaust system ends in a titanium Akrapovic muffler, but most of the silencing is accomplished in chambers below the engine.

Comfortably Fast | BMW M 1000 XR 

In front of our hotel in Spain was a lineup of M 1000 XRs in M Competition livery, a sinister black base peppered with blue and black accents. The overall look is visually arresting, even if it falls short of achieving pure aesthetic beauty.  

Throwing over a leg, I was greeted by a relaxed riding position considering this bike’s performance potential. Despite its race-bred DNA, the M 1000 XR doesn’t compromise on rider comfort.  The handlebar is within easy reach, and the M-branded seat feels plush. Front and center is a clearly readable 6.5-inch TFT display that can be connected to smartphones. The system’s complex capabilities are navigated by BMW’s innovative Multi-Controller wheel inboard of the left handgrip.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action

GEAR UP

Firing up the XR, ears are greeted with a snarling exhaust note emitted by the tidy titanium Akrapovic muffler with a carbon cap. Most of the muffling takes place in a convoluted system of pipework placed under the engine. A quick blip of the throttle immediately sends revs soaring, a portent of fun times to follow.  

Clutch pull is modest, and it barely needs to be bothered with thanks to a highly effective quickshifter that swaps cogs seamlessly. Despite the XR’s high-strung potential, it does a fine job of wading through city streets on the way out of town. Power is omnipresent no matter the engine speed, and the bike is easy to manage in tight spaces.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action
The M 1000 XR proved to be delightful when unwinding twisty roads, with a wonderful blend of agility and composure. And when the roads open up, 200 ponies will make other traffic disappear in its mirrors.

Next up was a highway stint that highlighted the XR’s comfort. The two-position windscreen is adjustable on the fly, and there’s a generous amount of space between the seat and the bars. The seat is fairly tall at 33.5 inches, which allows adequate legroom despite the high-set footpegs that enable dizzying lean angles without touching down. The M Competition foot controls also allow adjustments to fine-tune their fit for different riders.  

In this environment, the “Road” ride mode delivers smooth throttle responses and a smooth ride from the semi-active suspension that has 5.4 inches of travel at both ends. Engine vibration is present but isn’t aggravating. Cruise control is standard equipment, and it operates flawlessly and can be set in 1-mph increments.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action

Ultimate Streetbike Performance | BMW M 1000 XR 

After arriving in a rural area, the hilly, twisty roads ahead called for a different ride mode. I toggled to Dynamic, which sharpens the throttle responses and firms up suspension damping. Other modes available are Rain, Race, and three levels of Race Pro. I sampled the Race mode but eventually switched back to Dynamic, which suited me perfectly.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action

It was finally time to experience the power on tap from the M 1000 XR. Holy crap, this thing is fast! BMW says it can accelerate to 124 mph in just 7.4 seconds – that’s 1.3 seconds quicker than the S 1000 XR, partly due to the M’s shorter gearing. And if you’re brave enough to keep the throttle twisted past that speed, the acceleration forces barely diminish.  

Fully up to the task of shedding big speeds are the M-XR’s brakes. I was initially disappointed to not see Brembo’s Stylema calipers, which are often found on premium bikes and are the best clampers I’ve tested. However, the XR’s monoblock Nissin calipers developed with BMW feel just as good as the vaunted Stylemas, with a firm lever and precise feedback. Very impressive!  

The Dynamic Damping Control system transforms the suspension from touring-plush to sportbike-firm at the touch of a button. It takes cues from a 6-axis IMU to keep the bike settled regardless of how aggressively it’s ridden.  

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action
A high and wide handlebar and an adjustable windscreen (seen here in its lower position) provide more comfort than expected for a machine with this much performance.

And the M 1000 XR thrives when ridden aggressively. Its relatively high and wide handlebar encourages quick steering transitions, which are certainly aided by the ultra-lightweight carbon wheels. Its agility is exceptional, and once levered over, the sportbike-derived chassis remains steadfast while the suspension’s DDC continually adjusts and adapts to every situation.  

Indelible | BMW M 1000 XR 

On the way back to the hotel, I reflected on a particular section of our ride. We were untangling a seemingly endless series of twists and turns interjected with occasional straight sections that enabled room to rev out the engine and seamlessly bang a few shifts. I was having so much fun that I was literally grinning and giggling in my helmet.  

The M 1000 XR’s extreme performance and unflappable composure made me think I was on one of the best bikes in the world for twisty roads. Its glorious motor provides acceleration that will take your breath away, and you’d think it was terrific even if you never revved it above 9,000 rpm. The M-XR has agility that will shame many sportbikes, and it has race-level braking power backed by cornering ABS. 

2024 BMW M 1000 XR action

And when it’s time to leave the canyons, the M-XR transforms into a relatively comfy touring bike. Riders are coddled with decent wind protection, a plush suspension, and amenities like heated grips and cruise control.  

Whether unraveling twisty mountain roads or devouring miles on the open highway, the M 1000 XR offers an unrivaled combination of performance, luxury, technological sophistication, and immaculate attention to detail. Now I just gotta remember where I stashed that $30K wad I was setting aside for something special… 

2024 BMW M 1000 XR
Pricing for the M 1000 XR starts at $24,990, but the desirable M Competition package ups the MSRP to $30,485.

2024 BMW M 1000 XR Specs 

  • Base Price:  $24,295 
  • Price As Tested: $30,485 (M Competition package) 
  • Warranty: 2 yrs., unltd. miles  
  • Website: BMWmotorcycles.com 

ENGINE  

  • Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse inline-Four, DOHC w/ variable valve timing, 4 valves per cyl.  
  • Displacement: 999cc  
  • Bore x Stroke: 80.0 x 49.7.0mm  
  • Horsepower: 201 @ 12,750 rpm (factory claim) 
  • Torque: 83 lb-ft @ 11,000 rpm (factory claim) 
  • Compression Ratio: 13.3:1  
  • Valve Insp. Interval: 18,000 miles  
  • Fuel Delivery: EFI w/ throttle-by-wire, 48mm throttle bodies  
  • Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch  
  • Final Drive: Chain  

CHASSIS 

  • Frame: Twin-beam aluminum, cast aluminum swingarm  
  • Wheelbase: 60.9 in.  
  • Rake/Trail: 25.1 degrees/4.6 in.  
  • Seat Height: 33.5 in.  
  • Suspension, Front: 45mm inverted fork, semi-active, 5.4 in. travel 
  • Rear: Single linkage shock, adj. semi-active, 5.4 in. travel  
  • Brakes, Front: Dual 320mm discs w/ 4-piston radial calipers & cornering ABS  
  • Rear: Single 265mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & cornering ABS  
  • Wheels, Front: Carbon fiber, 3.5 x 17 (as tested) 
  • Rear: Carbon fiber, 6.0 x 17 (as tested) 
  • Tires, Front: 120/70-ZR17 
  • Rear: 200/55-ZR17   
  • Wet Weight: 492 lb (as tested, factory claim) 
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gal.  

The post 2024 BMW M 1000 XR Review | First Ride appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Liberty Media to acquire Dorna

WorldSBK has some exciting news! Read the full announcement from Dorna and MotoGP™ below:

Liberty Media Corporation has announced an agreement to acquire MotoGP™. MotoGP™ is the pinnacle of two wheels, with 22 of the fastest riders competing on purpose-built prototype motorcycles on some of the world’s greatest racetracks, reaching top speeds above 360 kilometers per hour/223 miles per hour. From the first season in 1949 that staged six rounds across Europe, the sport has grown to comprise more than 20 Grands Prix across five continents, with the television broadcast reaching hundreds of millions around the world.

This new agreement will see Dorna Sports S.L., the exclusive commercial and television rights holder of MotoGP™, remain an independently run company attributed to Liberty Media’s Formula One Group tracking stock. Carmelo Ezpeleta, who has been CEO since 1994, will remain in his position and continue to run the business with his management team. The business will remain based in Madrid.

Dorna also holds exclusive rights to other motorcycle racing series, including MotoGP™ feeder series Moto2™ and Moto3™, the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship and the new FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship.

Liberty Media will acquire approximately 86% of Dorna, with Dorna management retaining approximately 14% of their equity in the business. The transaction reflects an enterprise value for Dorna/MotoGP™ of €4.2 billion and an equity value of €3.5 billion, with MotoGP’s™ existing debt balance expected to remain in place after close.

“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of leading live sports and entertainment assets with the acquisition of MotoGP,” said Greg Maffei, Liberty Media President and CEO. “MotoGP is a global league with a loyal, enthusiastic fan base, captivating racing and a highly cash flow generative financial profile. Carmelo and his management team have built a great sporting spectacle that we can expand to a wider global audience. The business has significant upside, and we intend to grow the sport for MotoGP fans, teams, commercial partners and our shareholders.”

“This is the perfect next step in the evolution of MotoGP, and we are excited for what this milestone brings to Dorna, the MotoGP paddock and racing fans,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna. “We are proud of the global sport we’ve grown, and this transaction is a testament to the value of the sport today and its growth potential. Liberty Media has an incredible track record in developing sports assets and we could not wish for a better partner to expand MotoGP’s fanbase around the world.”

The acquisition is expected to be completed by year-end 2024 and is subject to the receipt of clearances and approvals by competition and foreign investment law authorities in various jurisdictions.

Investor Call
Liberty Media’s President and CEO, Greg Maffei, and Dorna’s CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, will host an investor conference call at 8:30am ET / 2:30pm CEST on April 1, 2024 to discuss the acquisition in more detail. The call can be accessed by dialing +1 (215) 268-9864 (United States), +34 900 834 876 (Spain) or +44 (0)800 756 3429 (United Kingdom), confirmation code 13745617 at least 10 minutes prior to the start time. For a full list of international toll-free access numbers, please visit https://www.incommconferencing.com/international-dial-in. The call will also be broadcast live across the internet and archived on Liberty Media’s website. Presentation materials to be used during the investor call will be posted to the Liberty Media website in advance. To access the webcast and accompanying presentation materials go to https://www.libertymedia.com/investors/news-events/ir-calendar. An archive of the webcast will also be available on Liberty Media’s website after appropriate filings have been made with the SEC.

About Liberty Media Corporation
Liberty Media Corporation operates and owns interests in a broad range of media, communications and entertainment businesses. Those businesses are attributed to three tracking stock groups: the Liberty SiriusXM Group, the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group. The businesses and assets attributed to the Liberty SiriusXM Group (NASDAQ: LSXMA, LSXMB, LSXMK) include Liberty Media’s interest in SiriusXM. The businesses and assets attributed to the Formula One Group (NASDAQ: FWONA, FWONK) include Liberty Media’s subsidiaries Formula 1 and Quint, and other minority investments. The businesses and assets attributed to the Liberty Live Group (NASDAQ: LLYVA, LLYVK) include Liberty Media’s interest in Live Nation and other minority investments.

About Dorna Sports, S.L. & MotoGP™
Dorna Sports became the sole commercial and television rights holder of the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship in 1991. Based in Madrid, with premises in Barcelona and a subsidiary in Rome, Dorna is a leader in sports management, marketing and media, and has seen continued growth over the years, expanding from solely MotoGP™ to include other leading motorcycle racing championships across the globe. Dorna holds exclusive rights to MotoGP feeder series Moto2™ and Moto3™, MotoE™, the Superbike World Championship and the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship.

MotoGP™ is the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, with 22 of the fastest riders competing on purpose-built prototype motorcycles on some of the world’s greatest racetracks. MotoGP features top speeds above 360 kilometers per hour (223 miles per hour) and lean angles of over 60 degrees. Since 1949, the sport has grown to comprise more than 20 Grands Prix across five continents, with the television broadcast reaching hundreds of millions around the world. 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including certain statements relating to the proposed transaction and its completion and statements relating to our expectations regarding the Formula One Group business, and Dorna and its MotoGP business and prospects. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of federal and state securities laws. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as “possible,” “potential,” “intends” or “expects” or other words or phrases of similar import or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “may,” “might,” “should,” “would,” “could,” or similar variations. These forward-looking statements involve many risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and the timing of events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including, but not limited to: historical financial information may not be representative of future results; there may be significant transaction costs and integration costs in connection with the proposed transaction; the parties may not realize the potential benefits of the proposed transaction in the near term or at all; the parties may not satisfy all conditions to the proposed transaction, including the failure to obtain regulatory approvals; the proposed transaction may not be consummated; there may be liabilities that are not known, probable or estimable at this time; the proposed transaction may result in the diversion of management’s time and attention to issues relating to the proposed transaction and integration; unfavorable outcome of legal proceedings that may be instituted against the parties following the announcement of the proposed transaction; risks inherent to the business may result in additional strategic and operational risks, which may impact Liberty Media’s risk profile, which it may not be able to mitigate effectively; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in periodic reports that Liberty Media files with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and Liberty Media expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Liberty Media’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Please refer to the publicly filed documents of Liberty Media, including its most recent Form 10-K, as such risk factors may be amended, supplemented or superseded from time to time by other reports Liberty Media subsequently file with the SEC, for additional information about Liberty Media and about the risks and uncertainties related to Liberty Media’s businesses which may affect the statements made in this press release.

Source: WorldSBK.com