I added a new bike to the stable just before Christmas. It’s a 2015 BMW S1000RR. I bought it used with fewer than 10,000 miles on it and I know that it has been well cared for. The thing is a monster. About 200 hp with the Akrapovic exhaust. Antilock brakes. Suspension that adjusts on the fly. Five riding modes and clutchless shifting. It is an absolute dream to ride on the track.

This one is going to be set up pretty much as track-only. After years of street riding, I got a taste of the track last season at Streets of Willow Springs and Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca and now I just can’t see going back to the street and truly enjoying it.

It’s already got the No. 1 plate! Ha. That’s got to go…

The bike is already partially race prepped, but I’m now spending my downtime (which isn’t a lot) looking for all kinds of cool bits and pieces to add on. Unfortunately, the 2015 race plastics from Armour Bodies are not due out until mid-March, so that is going to be a bummer. I want to get in at least one track day before then, so I’m going to have to be very careful with the factory plastics, because they are super-expensive to replace.

In the meantime, I can start taking off the mirrors, headlights and taillights, turn signals, kickstand, rear seat and all the other unnecessaries.

I’m looking forward to the fun.