BMW Motorrad presented its 2020 lineup at the recently concluded EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy. Among the updated models that were showcased at the motoring event was the new 2020 S 1000 XR. The latest iteration of the Bavarian manufacturer’s litre-class sports tourer has received several visual and mechanical upgrades for 2020.

The 2020 BMW S 1000 XR is claimed to be lighter, faster and even more versatile than its predecessor. Several weight saving exercises have brought down the unladen weight to 226 kg, which is 10 kg less than its predecessor's.


Updated styling cues bring a revised front fascia to the motorcycle and drop the asymmetrical headlight setup for sleeker, LED units. The 2020 S 1000 XR boasts full LED lighting (headlight, blinkers and taillight) and a 6.5-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Ex-works option brings Headlight Pro to the motorcycle that includes adaptive turning light (or cornering lights). The optional Headlight Pro also includes DRL (Daytime Riding Light).

Apart from the revised front fascia, the 2020 iteration of the S 1000 XR also gets a new layout of the mainframe, fuel tank flanks and body parts in the seating area that aim to offer a refreshed look and deliver better support and improved knee grip. The ergonomics have also been tweaked for better comfort. The new S 1000 XR is available in two different colour schemes Ice Grey and Racing Red/White Aluminium (available at extra cost).


Mechanical specifications have also undergone updates to comply with the latest Euro-V emission norms. As in case of its predecessor, the engine is based on the company’s flagship supersport motorcycle, the S 1000 RR. The motor of the S 1000 XR is 5 kg lighter than that of the S 1000 RR. The engine is tuned to deliver better mid-range power and rideability. The bike also features new transmission gradation for the 4th – 6th gear.

The 999 cc liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder, 16-valve (four valves per cylinder), DOHC engine pumps out 165 hp of peak power at 11,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm. Electronic rider aids such as engine drag torque control (MSR), Dynamic ESA, riding modes Pro, ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control DTC and DTC Wheelie Function and Hill Start Control Pro are available as standard. The latest generation of BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) also comes as standard. Dynamic ESA Pro, which brings two damping modes (Road, Dynamic) and automatic load compensation, is part of the optional extras. HP Shift Assistant Pro (clutchless up and down-shifts) and electronic cruise control are available through ex-works option.