For 2026, the S 1000 R adopts a markedly different approach to its front end, with a split-headlight design. The outgoing model featured a single vertical headlight setup, reminiscent of the G 310 R, which was not well-received by purists, to say the least. Now, BMW has gone back to the drawing board and overhauled the S 1000 R’s face, making it look like a fitting naked counterpart to the S 1000 RR supersport.

The bike continues to use the same 999cc inline-4 liquid-cooled engine, now producing 170hp at 11,000rpm (up by 5hp) and 114Nm at 9,250rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. BMW claims a 0-100kph time of 3.2 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250kph..

The S 1000 R is offered in three variants – Standard, Style Sport and M Sport Package. The Standard and Style Sport are available in black, while the Style Sport can also be had in a special blue shade with greenish-yellow accents. 

At Rs 19.90 lakh (Introductory, ex-showroom, India), the S 1000 R rivals the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP (Rs 12.36 lakh) at the lower end of the segment, while sitting between the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS (Rs 20.39 lakh) and Ducati Streetfighter V4 (Rs 24.62 lakh) at the higher end