The rig for this adventure is a 2016 BMW S1000XR. With 160hp, it’s classified as a “Sport Tourer” (emphasis on sport). It’s sort of a hybrid of the full-on adventure models (GS) and the road touring models (RT), with the added excitement of sport bike design. The more upright posture (as opposed to the lean over of traditional sport bikes) allows for longer days in the saddle.
It’s got electronic wizardry too lengthy to explain here, but four basic modes, selected with the tap of a button, allow the bike to adjust for changing road conditions: rain, road, dynamic (kicks it into a more aggressive mode - think jack rabbit), and dynamic pro; used strictly for track racing (or hooliganism).
For this trip, it’s been rigged with SW Motech TraX EVO Alu-Boxes and a Givi Dolomiti top box. As you can see, the beauty of these boxes is they pop right off, putting the bike back into commuter / every day ride condition. For additional visibility (to other drivers) at night, Clearwater “Darla” lights have been mounted on the front forks. Most of the gear is available through Twisted Throttle or Revzilla - both fantastic companies to deal with.
I would be remiss if I didn't recognize a dear friend, and damn good bike builder, Bill Berndt. He helped me install the Cobra exhaust on this beast. Without his help, patience, and expertise I'd (still) be curled up on the garage floor in a fetal position.
I would be remiss if I didn't recognize a dear friend, and damn good bike builder, Bill Berndt. He helped me install the Cobra exhaust on this beast. Without his help, patience, and expertise I'd (still) be curled up on the garage floor in a fetal position.
