BMW S1000XR instrument console.

The XR I tested sported discreet, yet effective handguards, with comfort enhanced by the optional heated grips.

The BMW S1000XR's half-fairing and the two-position, hand-adjustable screen do a decent job with wind protection.

This ABS Pro is more like enhanced performance braking. The most noticeable demonstration of the ABS Pro’s advantage is during corner braking, where the bike doesn’t stand up when applying the front brake. Instead the ABS Pro system makes minute modulations to the front brake calipers so that the bike’s holds its lean angle.

BMW also offers an optional Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) for the S1000XR. The D-ESA system modulates suspension damping based off inputs from sensors measuring acceleration, deceleration and banking angle, with electrically-actuated control valves automatically adjust the damping rate in real-time.

The S1000XR utilizes the engine spec powering its streetfighter sibling, the S1000R, which trades the RR’s top-end peak power for a more robust bottom- and mid-range.

BMW’s offers the S1000XR in several different spec packages straight from the factory, including Base($16,350), Standard ($17,295) and Premium ($18,750).

The XR’s chassis follows the lead of its S1000R sibling, with some important deviations. A revised steering head angle and longer swingarm stretches the wheelbase to 61 inches, 4.3 inches more than the R model.

. The R and XR suspensions share similar hardware (46mm inverted fork and rear shock), but the XR adds a 1.2 inches of travel to the front (5.9 inches) and 0.8 inches to the rear (5.5 inches).

The S1000XR’s shift assist stood out to me as much smoother in operation than those I’ve sampled on the RS and R1200RT models.

A six-speed transmission package is highlighted by the Gear Shift Assist Pro, yet another option included in the Premium spec ($475 as stand-alone accessory).

The S1000XR utilizes BMW's multi-controller button on the left handlebar.

A sophisticated electronics package harnesses the XR’s engine power, as well as integrates actions from the traction control, braking and suspension.

The XR sources the 999cc Inline Four BMW originally developed for its popular S1000RR superbike.

The BMW S1000XR performed better than expected off-road, and we spent most of our day on wet dirt....

The S1000XR is a sporty handler, with the ABS Pro and Dynamic ESA enhancing road performance.

The BMW S1000XR can venture out into Fire Service roads, where it's a capable handler, though serious ADV riding will be better served by the GS/A.

BMW's S1000XR mates sportbike performance to Adventure ergonomics.