BMW unveils the 218 cv M 1000 Rs and completes the F 450 range
BMW is working on two contrasting fronts at EICMA 2026: raising the bar in terms of performance and expanding the range of motorbikes available to A2 licence holders
There’s no shortage of new models at the BMW stand at the Rho-Pero Motor Show. Hypernaked enthusiasts will be in their element with the M 1000 RS, a ‘naked’ bike that brings the technology developed for the M family’s superbikes to a road-going motorcycle. The four-cylinder engine, derived from the M RR, delivers a maximum power output of 218 cv, whilst the kerb weight is just 196 kg. The power-to-weight ratio, at around 1.11 cv/kg, places it at the very top of its class. The specification includes carbon fibre aerodynamic winglets, a full titanium exhaust system, a brushed aluminium fuel tank and numerous carbon fibre components. The ‘Rs’ designation, short for ‘Rennsport’, evokes the brand’s sporting heritage (‘Rennen’ means race or competition).
Two new ‘little ones’
Also a naked bike, but of a completely different nature, is the new F 450 R, designed for those new to motorcycling or who want a light and manoeuvrable bike. The 420 cc parallel-twin engine, with a 135° crankshaft angle, delivers 48 cv, the power limit for an A2 licence. The kerb weight is 175 kg and the seat height is 790 mm. The specification includes three riding modes, ABS Pro, dynamic traction control, full LED lighting and a 6.5-inch TFT instrument panel. Of particular interest is the Easy Ride Clutch, a feature that simplifies gear changes and makes starting off and manoeuvring at low speeds easier.
Alongside the naked bike, a sports model is also making its debut: the F 450 RR. Here too, power output is 48 cv, whilst maximum torque reaches 43 Nm. The kerb weight is 177 kg. The chassis, featuring 17-inch wheels and a compact wheelbase, is designed to prioritise precision and agility. The design echoes the styling of its bigger sisters, with a silhouette inspired by the S 1000 RR, asymmetrical fairings and aerodynamic winglets. The specification includes Race mode, ABS Pro and traction control. The Riding Modes Pro package is available as an option, adding Race Pro mode and a stopwatch for recording lap times. These two new additions bring the number of models in the F 450 family – launched last year with the off-road F 450 GS – to three.
