IT’S THE PINNACLE of motorcycle racing, a showcase for technology and one of the world’s most recognised brand-conscious sports… so why does BMW – one of the biggest, most technologically advanced, brand-savvy manufacturers – choose not to compete in MotoGP?

It’s a question that rises periodically, not least right now as it launches the second-generation of its internationally lauded S1000RR Superbike, one that shows BMW can comfortably mix it with the best when it comes to flagship machinery.