BMW Releases Info on New S1000RR-based Superbike HP4

BMW’s HP label stands for high performance, and the new HP4 is a continuation of the boxer series begun in 2005 with the HP2 Enduro, HP2 Megamoto and HP2 Sport. The new HP4 is the first four-cylinder motorcycle in the HP family. Based on the S1000RR, BMW claims 193 horsepower and a dry weight of just 373 pounds with Race ABS.

The HP4 becomes the homologation model for racing, with technological innovations which highlight its orientation towards racing and the race track.

From BMW Press Release:

Dynamic Damping Control DDC - a world first for production motorcycles.

Dynamic Damping Control DDC allows dynamic damping adaptation of the upside-down fork and spring strut to the specific situation on the road. The damping is adapted to the current maneuver or road surface by means of sensor-supplied parameters via electrically controlled regulation valves. In this way, the HP4 offers optimum damping in every situation, handling long and short shocks so as to provide maximum traction and safety.

Higher performance brake system and Race ABS with IDM setting for maximum brake performance.

As before, Race ABS has four different modes for wet surfaces (“Rain”), roads (“Sport”), race track with supersport tires (“Race”) and race track with slicks (“Slick”). Racing experience gained from the IDM (International German Motorcycle Championship) has been fed directly into the Race ABS in the HP4. In “Slick” mode, the so-called IDM setting with refined regulation impulses now gives the skilled rider the option of maximum possible deceleration.

New 200/55-ZR17 rear tires and finely adjustable Dynamic Traction Control in “Slick” mode.

The HP4 uses a rear tire in the new 200/55-ZR17 size. The Dynamic Traction Control DTC already used in the RR has been optimized for supersport use in the HP4: Now the effect of traction control can be adapted in “Slick” mode to changing conditions and the rider’s individual preference while on the move.

Launch Control for perfect starts and shift assistant for optimum gearshifts.

A first for BMW, Launch Control limits engine torque in Slick mode to provide maximum torque transferable to the rear wheel whenever the front wheel is stationary, letting the rider focus less on the throttle while he controls acceleration solely using the clutch. Engine torque is reduced as soon as the system detects front wheel lift, preventing unwanted wheelies. Shift assistant, also standard, allows instant gearshifts with virtually no interruption of tractive force.

Weight reduction due to forged wheels, lighter sprocket carrier, titanium exhaust system and lighter battery.

Seven-spoke wheels in forged light alloy and a new, lighter sprocket carrier give the HP4 a weight reduction of 5.3 lb compared to the RR. The exhaust system is made entirely of titanium and saves as much as 10 lb compared to the RR. The new exhaust system has a link pipe between cylinders two and three, a controlled acoustic valve and a closed-loop catalytic converter.

Sharpened engine set-up and more torque in the mid-range.

The new HP4 uses the liquid-cooled four-cylinder of the S1000RR, with a peak output of 193 hp at 13,000 rpm and a maximum engine speed of 14,200 rpm. As in the RR, maximum torque occurs at 9,750 rpm—but the HP4’s torque has been perceptibly increased in the 6,000 rpm to 9,750 rpm range. In “Rain” mode, there is now a smoother torque curve available between 2,500 rpm and 8000 rpm. Unlike the RR, the HP4 provides the full 193 hp at 13,000 rpm in all four modes.

Looking the part…

The information display now shows DDC set-up menus as well as the figures for DTC fine adjustment and Launch Control activation. In addition to the monoposto look (a passenger kit is available), there is a dual-section engine spoiler and a tinted windshield, both of which are designed to highlight the increased dynamic performance of the HP4. Small, light LED turn indicators are discreetly integrated and the laser-engraved HP4 logo with serial number on the upper fork bridge underscores the bike's exclusive nature. An elaborate multi-color paint finish in racing blue metallic/light white creates a racing-oriented appearance.

HP4 with Competition Package

For those who want even more, the HP4 with Competition Package is an especially exclusive version of the motorcycle. Refined HP carbon parts include an HP engine spoiler in carbon, an adjustable HP rider footrest system, folding HP brake and clutch levers, wheels finished in Racing blue metallic and a sponsor sticker kit.

For more information: www.bmwmotorcycles.com

There you have it.

Sounds nice, no? Not unlike one of Ducati’s “S” or “SP” models, or maybe even an “R.” And if you have to ask the price, you probably can’t afford it. BMW isn’t volunteering that information just yet.