BMW S 1000 RR Launch
28th February 2010 adds another milestone to the BMW Group Malaysia when they successfully launched the very much anticipated S1000 RR. The S 1000 RR is the latest breed in the Beemer stable of superbikes. 4 other new BMW Motorrad models were also unveiled. The BMW R 1200 GS, R 1200 GS Adventure, R 1200 RT and the F 800 R, a bike made famous world over by professional stunt biker, Chris Pfeiffer.
Sepang International circuit was the venue of the launch with many guests, potential buyers, media and the biking fraternity coming in early to register themselves for the test ride. The launch was officiated by Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, managing director of BMW group Malaysia. According to him, BMW motorcycles sold a total of 183 Motorrad units in 2008 and it grew to 225 units in 2009 despite the challenges of the global economic situation. This is a testament to the success of the range in Malaysia despite it being a particularly niche market.
According to En. Fazli, Motorrad Manager of BMW Malaysia, development for the S 1000 RR started at the end of 2007 and it epitomises the BMW group’s advances in motorcycle development as it is a bike that incorporates the power, riding dynamics and safety features endemic throughout the BMW brand but has yet to be achieved in the motorcycle segment, until now.
The bike have since then taken an active part in the world superbike championship with two world renowned superbike riders, Troy Corser and Rueben Xaus riding and helping in the development of the bike. The in-line four with 193 horses under the tank and weighing in at 204 Kg (fully fuel loaded) is said to be one of the best power to weight ratios bike in the market currently. Technology wise, it is no short of applications to dabble with. 4 modes of variable engine mapping (Rain, Sport, Slick and Race), fly-by-wire throttle management, ABS brakes, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and high speed gear shift assistant.
Much effort was spent decorating SIC for the launch as well as for the test rides. 10 units of the S 1000 RR were prepared for the half track, instructor guided test ride while another 2 units were on stand-by at the back of the pit for those who wanted to test the traction control (DTC) and the effectiveness of the S 1000 RR ABS system.
The test ride on that day was not particularly effective as we were only given 5 very much controlled laps thus was not able to take the bike to its full potential. We shall wait for the generosity of BMW Motorrad to arrange for another test bike for us to do a proper review, for the benefit of those who are planning to buy a superbike as well as for the general readers here. Demand for the S 1000 RR is overwhelming as all the test bikes were sold and out of the 43 units in shipment, there are only 2 left awaiting for new owners. On the road price without insurance for the S 1000 RR is RM108, 800.00. If you have missed this opportunity, then you will have to wait till August before the next expected shipment to arrive on our shores.
