Finally Rode The V4

A lot of those differences are simply from having two extra cylinders. 4 will always be smoother than 2.

The S1000RR motor is a marvel of engineering, electric smooth linear power and still has a killer top end. But after two S1000RRs, I had to conclude that the bike was too stable for track use, I don't like how BMW didn't allow me to customize riding modes, and there is a high frequency vibration that I will never, ever, miss. I put bar end weights, tried everything and it never went away.

Coolant Reservoir

ultra300x said:

There is a new S1000RR coming next year, I bet you will be tempted ...

... Keep the radiator FULL, that helps a little

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Off-topic comment - The coolant reservoir came to mind as I was finishing reading the reply. I'd like to figure out if my 1299S has coolant in it... I've tried a flexi-neck 19" flashlight and a small, LED black light, and a few flashlights, and nothing yet has produced even a hint of fluid in the reservoir! Sure would like to figure out if there's fluid in it. Has anyone reading this figured it out?

Thanks!

kismetcapitan said:

A lot of those differences are simply from having two extra cylinders. 4 will always be smoother than 2.

The S1000RR motor is a marvel of engineering, electric smooth linear power and still has a killer top end. But after two S1000RRs, I had to conclude that the bike was too stable for track use, I don't like how BMW didn't allow me to customize riding modes, and there is a high frequency vibration that I will never, ever, miss. I put bar end weights, tried everything and it never went away.

Click to expand...

on 2015 and up S1000RR you do get customization riding modes, just have to get the dynamic package that gives you the user and slick modes!

kismetcapitan said:

A lot of those differences are simply from having two extra cylinders. 4 will always be smoother than 2.

The S1000RR motor is a marvel of engineering, electric smooth linear power and still has a killer top end. But after two S1000RRs, I had to conclude that the bike was too stable for track use, I don't like how BMW didn't allow me to customize riding modes, and there is a high frequency vibration that I will never, ever, miss. I put bar end weights, tried everything and it never went away.

Click to expand...

The S1000RR vibration was the worst. It would put my hand to sleep in 15 minutes. I put on the heavy Throttlemeisters, Driven grippy grips, and filled the clip-ins with fine sand and it smoothed out quite a bit. Without the Throttlemiesters the vibs were vicious 3500-5500 rpm. After the bad vibs dropped down to about 2500. Very smooth at 3 to 7, and glass smooth at about 11.

As many found out, the 2010 model didn't like to turn all that much. The 1299 engine has that same punch as the S1000RR, but at lower RPM. If the 1299 was a little smoother, and not so damn hot, it would be the ultimate street sport bike engine.

The V4 I rode was not as hot, smoother than the 1299 by far, maybe even smoother than the Aprilia, but turn in was much slower. Perhaps the suspension was not set up properly who knows. After this 1299 I could probably live with anything, but my next bike will be a V4, I'm just not sure it will be a Ducati. The price premium is not worth it.