2024 BMW M 1000 R First Ride Review
A top-tier apex predator that brings Superbike internals to a naked platform. Built for the rider who wants a track-ready weapon without the back-breaking ergonomics of a full sportbike.
- Unmatched Agility: Carbon fiber wheels make changing lanes feel magical and effortless.
- Top-Tier Tech: One of the best TFT screens + every rider aid you could ask for (hill hold, custom race modes, etc.).
- Superbike Soul: 205 hp and a 14,000 RPM redline pulls like a genuine Super Sport.
- Lacks Low-End Grunt: With ~83 ft-lb, it can feel thin until you rev it high.
- Mirror Vibrations: High-frequency buzz ruins mirror clarity at speed.
- Numb Exhaust Note: Stock sound is a bit disappointing for the price.
Performance Highlights
This bike is an engineering marvel. It feels sharp and surprisingly light on the move — especially with the M Competition package. Around town it can feel sleepy at low RPM because the party starts higher in the rev range, but once you cross into the power band, it launches you into outer space.
Brakes are equally impressive: massive stopping power while keeping the chassis composed, even during urgent slow-down moments on the highway.
Note: The 40–80 pull was performed in first gear — “still going… looked down and I was doing 100.”
Rider Experience & Tech
Ergonomics hit a sweet spot: sporty and aggressive in the lower half (likely enhanced by the billet package), while the upper body stays upright and comfortable thanks to wide bars. It lets you manhandle the bike in corners without destroying your back on the commute.
BMW’s tech is a highlight. The TFT is among the best in the business, controls feel premium and durable even after 4,000 miles, and little touches like heated grips and hill hold (that works in neutral) make it far easier to live with than your average track-focused machine.
The Chase Score & Final Thoughts
With a Chase Score of 78/100, the M 1000 R is a fascinating contradiction: it looks like a street bike, but it breathes like a racer. If you try to hoon it around town, the power delivery can feel thin down low — but on a track or technical mountain road, it’s an apex predator.
It’s expensive — but it can replace a two-bike garage by being both a comfortable daily and a legitimate track weapon.
Who it’s for: riders who want S 1000 RR-level performance but prefer naked-bike comfort and visibility.
Who should skip: anyone chasing torquey stoplight-to-stoplight fun or shopping on a strict budget.