Evolution of Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR Riders
Racing Roots of Carbon Fiber
All motorcycle performance advancements come from racing. Carbon fiber is no exception. Designed for use in aero-industry, this super strong and lightweight compound naturally migrated to F1 and MotoGP. For many years it was considered an exclusive, expensive material for factory teams. The benefits of carbon fiber, it’s lightweight, strong, resists heat, looks nice, eventually became available to the road bike.
Aimed very much at the track, the BMW S1000RR was an early adopter of carbon fiber upgrades. Items such as the Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR became one of the most widely requested aftermarket parts.
From Plastic to Performance
The BMW S1000RR was no different when it came to high street standard ABS fairings upon its debut. They are functional, but plastic panels were not only adding unnecessary weight, but didn't have the premium feel that riders expected from a high end street and race bike.
With after-market companies trying their hand at producing carbon fiber, the tank side panels were one of the earliest casualties. Located near the bike’s mid-point of mass, these side panels affect the bike’s feel, stability and balance. Found swapping from plastic to Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR, a result that was easily felt in the agility department with riders appreciating it as soon as they were out on the road or track along with that stunning weave finish.
How Tank Side Panels Became The Preferred Option
Not all the parts of a motorcycle can easily be replaced by carbon fiber, but tank side panels fit the ticket. They are:
- Extremely high definition - instantly makes your bike the focus of attention.
- Functionally important - impact on weight and rider grip.
- Quick Change Out – installation effort is less than that is required for structural parts.
This made them a popular upgrade for anyone who was casually riding along on the street, and prepping for the racetrack on their S1000RR.
Evolution of Weaves and Finishes
Over time, the manufacture of carbon fiber changed as demand increased. Early aftermarket panels used basic twill weaves, but now riders have a plethora of options:
- Classic 3K twill weave – the conventional carbon fiber checker board look.
- 12k weave – bolder and more noticeable pattern.
- Carbon forged – a contemporary marble-esque finish used in luxury cars.
Beyond the weave, finishes have gotten better as well. Today, the Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR are offered in Gloss, Matte or Satin finishes, each with its own unique look. Clear coat applications have also gotten better, with UV protection and less chance of yellowing over time.
Aerodynamics Enter the Picture
Years ago, the all-important tank side panels were all about saving weight and looks. But as engineering evolved, aerodynamics emerged as the focal point. Contemporary Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR are typically shaped to divert wind better, smoothening out wind resistance and improving top-speed.
This track-ready development is good for the common rider as well. At street pace, better air management results in less rough riding and less buffeting around the tank opening.
From Racetrack to Street Icon
Something that began as a racing luxury is now seemingly in every vehicle on the road. It’s almost expected to see a BMW S1000RR on the streets in the city with Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels. Riders love them for that sense of performance, but more than anything else they love them for the prestige and the personalization.
Online forums, communities and social media have spread the trend. Ten years ago you’d be lucky to find carbon fiber components, such as handlebars or seatpost, on a race bike - they were exotic and expensive, these days they’re within reach of most riders with a vastly different price tag and quality levels.
The Current Standard
In 2025 Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR are one of our most popular upgrades. They’re the best of form and function, and heritage:
- A tip of the hat to the bike’s racing lineage.
- A practical weight-saving modification.
- Aesthetic enhancement for the S1000RR.
It’s not just about shaving grams anymore, it’s about having a piece of performance history that mirrors the development of superbikes themselves.
Conclusion
From aerospace engineering to MotoGP, and now to everyday superbike riders, carbon fiber has come a long way. No where is this evolution more prevalent than in the BMW S1000RR’s use of carbon fiber. Once the reserve of pro racers, the once exotic material has become a must have upgrade for enthusiasts.
The Carbon Fiber Tank Side Panels for BMW S1000RR capture this change - an item that fuses tradition, performance and modern design into one. If you’re after lap times on track or simply wish to turn heads on the street carbon fiber has undoubtedly shown it’s staying power.
About Us
At RLZ Motorsports, we specialize in high-performance motorcycle upgrades that combine style, durability, and precision engineering. From carbon fiber components to premium accessories, our mission is to help riders elevate their BMW S1000RR and other superbikes for unmatched performance and aesthetics.