In 1998, BMW brought the acronym "S" to life again and launched the BMW R 1100 S sport Boxer. The half fairing reaching up to the cylinders supported an asymmetric twin headlamp with innovative ellipsoid technology and the "Under Seat" exhaust system conveying a highly dynamic impression. However, BMW made it clear that this was not intended as a super sport motorcycle but as a sport tourer. The machine put its sporting prowess to the test in the "BMW Motorrad Boxer Cup". This competition was launched in 1999 and pitted private riders against former motorcycle world champions and winners.