‘Positive’ impressions as van der Mark shakes down new BMW M 1000 RR

Michael van der Mark shakes down the brand-new BMW M 1000 RR during a private test in France ahead of its debut in the 2021 WorldSBK Championship

Ollie Barstow

10 Dec 2020

Michael van der Mark says it was a positive experience to get some early laps in on the new BMW M 1000 RR following a shakedown of the marque’s new WorldSBK machine in France.

The Dutchman makes the switch over to BMW from Yamaha as part of a renewed effort from the manufacturer, which is dropping the standard S 1000 RR after two disappointing seasons in favour of a new homologation-special M-badged version.

With more power, honed electronics and wings, the M 1000 RR has been modelled on the Ducati Panigale V4 R and is designed to provide a significant improvement in top speed, an area where the S 1000 RR was lacking.

Taking to the Miramas circuit in France, van der Mark was pleased with his first impressions of the fresh machine.

“It was really good for me to have a first shakedown with the bike at Miramas. I think it was also really helpful to work together with the team and to get used to each other.

“We tried a couple of things which we normally don’t have the time for during a normal test so I think it was really positive and I was just happy to be back on the bike this year and I am really looking forward to the next test.”

In a disappointing year that saw a best result of just fifth place, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK boss Marc Bongers is confident the new M 1000 RR will have what it takes to take on Kawasaki and Ducati.

“It is important to do a shakedown with a new rider, and the day at Miramas was very productive. Michael had his first opportunity to take to the track with the new BMW M 1000 RR and get to know his race bike for the upcoming WorldSBK season better.

“He was also able to provide us with initial feedback on where we can customise his bike to suit him better. For example, in terms of ergonomics, the seating position, the position of the handlebar and the footrests, through to preferences when it comes to electronics.

“With the information that we gathered during this shakedown, we know the direction we need to go in with Michael’s bike to be well prepared for the first proper tests in 2021.”