Page 96 - 2022-08-01 RiDE

GARAGE USED BIKES

SWITCHGEAR
USED BUYING GUIDE around 2010-11 after the change to a
A known trouble area on nearly all BMWs

more conventional layout in 2009. Both
switch blocks have been known to fail
with many replaced under warranty.
Although almost certainly fixed by now,
give the switchgear a careful inspection
and ensure all the buttons work

2010-2018 | £7250-12,500 | 184-186mph | 190-199bhp

BMW

S1000RR

How BMW’s first true superbike

revolutionized the category — and

why it’s a superb used buy today

RRIVING IN SHOWROOMS in
2010, the original S1000RR
was BMW’s first true
A superbike — and it caused
such a sensation that it changed the
brand’s image forever.
More powerful than all rivals, featuring
pioneering electronics and quirky,
asymmetric looks, the S1000RR stood
out immediately. But it also featured
pioneering, relatively roomy real-world
ergonomics, optional heated grips and,
by 2015, semi-active suspension and
cruise control. This made it a usable
road bike, albeit an explosive, fast one.
The very first bikes weren’t immune to
problems however, though nearly all
were sorted for the thoroughly updated
2012 model. There were further
refinements for the 2015, Euro4 machine
Words Phil West Pictures Jason Critchell, Bauer Archive
which in turn was replaced by an
all-new RR in 2019. Being a BMW, spec
levels can vary significantly.
But although now superseded, BMW’s
original superbike retains a potency,
almost timeless allure and devoted
following that few other sportsbikes of
its era can match. If you want blistering
performance yet tolerable road BRAKES
manners, European cache but decent Big Brembos generally aren’t a problem
durability and the spec options only a but check for excessive disc bluing
BMW can offer, the RR makes a brilliant which may indicate track use and
used buy. Here’s how to find the right ensure they aren’t warped. ABS Pro
one for you… impressively integrates with the four
riding modes — Rain, Sport, Race and
Slick — to improve braking accordingly
96 SEPTEMBER 2022