Carbon-clad corner carver: BMW ready up for 2023 WSB season with latest M1000RR draped in aero upgrades

Alongside the reveal of the M1000R BMW have also upgraded their fully faired M1000RR with more advanced aerodynamics, which claim to boost top speed and stability.

The M RR builds on the S1000RR and forms the basis for the firm’s BSB and WSB racing machines – featuring a stronger more tuneable 209.2bhp four-cylinder engine, complete with forged pistons, CNC machined intake ports, variable valve timing (ShiftCam) and more.  

Already an incredibly fast motorcycle, it gets its first major update for 2023 and will be available to customers as of April next year in two variants – a standard model finished with licks of white, plus a blacked-out M Competition model.

BMW have invested heavily in aerodynamics, which is said to boost top speeds from 190.1mph to 195.1mph. That might not sound like much, but it could be the difference in winning on the world stage.

This has been achieved by a new carbon fibre fairing with taller screen, which is mounted via carbon fibre bracketry and comes draped in redesigned carbon fibre winglets. It also shelters the rider more at high speed, which should help reduce fatigue. This new fairing also covers more of the engine cases – providing additional protection to the motor in the event of a spill.

The redesigned wings are said to improve downforce by as much as 6.3kg at 186mph – an increase from 16.3kg on the old bike to 22.6kg to the new one. These benefits should be felt both on the straights and through the corners and equate to greater front-end feel.

But it doesn’t stop there, with a redesigned carbon front mudguard now incorporating brake cooling ducts to reduce temperatures by as much as 10 degrees. BMW also claim the ducts help improve airflow around the fork legs and calipers.  

The M Competition then takes this further with carbon fibre wheel covers to lower air resistance further. This is said to be most effective at speeds above 155mph.

Other features include a choice of carbon or forged rims, plus an ‘M Endurance’ seat, which is said to give a larger contact area when hanging off for greater feedback and comfort.

2023 BMW M1000RR details

• Power 209.2bhp @ 14,500rpm
• Torque 83.4lbft @ 11,000rpm
• Engine 999cc liquid-cooled inline-four
• Kerb weight 192kg
• Seat height 832mm
• £30,940