2021 BMW S 1000 R India Launch Confirmed

Apart from mechanical updates, the new S 1000 R features revised styling and ditches the quirky asymmetrical headlight

BMW Motorrad has teased its upcoming litre-class streetfighter, the 2021 S 1000 R on its social media thereby hinting at an imminent launch. We expect the new BMW S 1000 R to make its India debut in June itself and the upcoming BMW motorcycle could be priced between Rs 18 and 20 lakh (ex-showroom).

Since its launch back in 2014, the BMW S 1000 R never really received a major overhaul, until now. The 2021 model hosts a slew of updates for both form and function. Gone is the asymmetrical headlight in favour of a more conventional single-piece LED unit with DRLs, similar to the F 900 R. Even the tail light is now integrated, like the S 1000 RR. The overall design appears to be more compact with a mass-forward approach. BMW has updated the bike with a large 6.5-inch TFT screen. With the Bluetooth based smartphone connectivity, the S 1000 R also gets a navigation system. 

On the mechanical front, the 2021 BMW S 1000 R is powered by a BS6 compliant, 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder motor churning 167PS and 114Nm. While the numbers are the same as before, BMW claims to have improved rideability. For reference, the Ducati Streetfighter V4’s 1103cc V4 motor makes 208PS and 123Nm.

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Putting a leash on the 167 ponies is an improvised electronic suit. You get three ride modes (Road, rain and dynamic), cornering ABS and a multi-level traction control system. 

The new S 1000 R also gets the new ‘Flex Frame’ that uses the engine as a stress member. Suspension duties are handled by a 45mm USD fork and an adjustable monoshock whereas braking hardware comprises dual 320mm front discs and a 220mm rear disc with dual-channel ABS. 

With a 16.5-litre fuel tank, the 2021 BMW S 1000 R tips the weight scale at 199kg. However, with the optional M-package, including the carbon wheels, it manages to shred 5kg, thereby weighing in at 194kg. It gets a seat height of 830mm which should be fairly accessible. 

Once launched, it’ll rival the 2021 Ducati Streetfighter V4, Triumph Speed Triple 1200 and the Kawasaki Z H2.