The BMW S1000XR is like a Swiss Army knife on two wheels. It has the heart of a superbike, the comfort of a tourer, an all-encompassing tech package. First launched in 2015, the S1000XR has seen a few updates along the way, the most recent being a significant overhaul in 2020. But for 2024, BMW has cranked up the power, boosted comfort, and thrown in even more tech, all while sharpening up its looks.

Let’s talk about that styling first. The front end now looks sleeker and more aggressive, with a single colour-matched stubby beak replacing the twin "ant mandibles" of the previous model. It’s a subtle change but gives the bike a sportier vibe. The slotted side panels and other tweaks to the bodywork make it clear that BMW is aiming to turn heads both on and off the bike. My test model came with the optional M Package, which adds forged aluminium wheels and a lightweight lithium battery, plus this particular bike was fitted with the factory-fitted three-piece luggage set, perfect for those looking to add a bit of practicality to their weekend blasts.

The 999cc inline-four engine is a carryover from the S1000RR, and while it hasn’t been transformed with fancy tech like ShiftCam variable valve timing, it’s still a beast. BMW has found an extra 5 horsepower for 2024, bringing the total to a nice, round 165hp. The sound of the Akrapovic exhaust immediately gives away its superbike DNA—aggressive, loud enough to be interesting, and ready for action. At low revs, the engine is smooth and manageable, but things get wild after 7000rpm. By the time you hit 9250rpm, where the peak torque lives, you’ll be hanging on for dear life.

What’s impressive is how the bike manages to combine that ferocious engine with a ride that’s still comfortable. The electronic suspension is next-level genius. It automatically adjusts the preload depending on whether you’re riding solo, with luggage, or with a pillion. You don’t have to do a thing; the bike figures it all out. The suspension is a bit on the stiff side, but you can tweak it between "Road" and "Dynamic" modes, depending on your riding style.

Steering? Precise as a laser-guided missile. Whether you’re cutting through twisty backroads or cruising through town, the XR stays composed. The brakes, too, are phenomenal, with big 320mm front discs and Brembo four-pot callipers that give you all the stopping power you could ask for.

Ergonomically, the S1000XR is roomy and comfy. There’s plenty of space from the seat to the bars and to the footpegs. The windscreen could do with more coverage, but hey, it’s adjustable, so you can fiddle with it a bit. The bike’s 20-litre fuel tank is also a bonus, making it great for longer trips.

BMW has packed a ton of tech into the XR. Keyless ignition, adaptive headlights, cornering ABS, traction control, and the ever-handy hill-hold control are all standard. Add to that a snazzy TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity, and you’ve got a bike that’s as practical as it is fun.

If you’re a fan of inline-fours and want a bike that offers superbike thrills without the backache, the S 1000 XR is a no-brainer. It’s fast, comfortable, and packed with more tech than you’ll know what to do with. It isn’t as ferocious as its M 1000 XR sibling (what is?) but it’s a brilliant combination of fun and fast.

Looking for Maximum Performance? The M 1000 XR may be for you.

The M 1000 XR maximises everything: your riding experience, your endurance and, whenever you want, your adrenaline.