BMW has long been respected for its engineering prowess, so it’s entirely unsurprising that the German giant is at the cutting edge of motorcycle development with some very definite ideas about how to do it better than everyone else. Many riders think “Granddad’s bike” when you mention touring bikes, but this ain’t that.
Far from the American-style tourer, the new R 1300 RT definitely has a sportier layout that prioritizes high-speed comfort and performance, with all the appropriate electronic rider aids as standard equipment to complete the package. Whether you’re doing two-up touring, using it as a dandy commuter, or looking for a weekender bike, this bike has the chops to make even the hum-drum tasks into an exercise in gratuitous fun.
To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from BMW Motorrad. The information provided is current as of the time of this writing.
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BMW R 1300 RT: Boxer Muscle Meets High-Tech Touring Luxury
BMW Motorrad likes its boxer engines, so the R 1300 RT packs a classic flat-twin for its beating heart. It rocks both air- and liquid-cooling for efficient waste-heat removal, despite the engine being mostly buried under bodywork. A 180-degree firing order delivers even power pulses for smooth power delivery, with gentle idling vibes and effortless cruising. If you’re more in the mood for the “sport” aspect of this sport-cruiser, just roll the throttle on to unleash 145 ponies and 110 pounds o’ grunt for your riding pleasure. A slipper clutch sends power through the six-speed gearbox with a shaft-type final drive.
Key Engine Specs
|
Engine |
Flat-Twin, air/water cooled |
|
Displacement |
1,300 cc |
|
Power |
145 HP @ 7,750 RPM |
|
Torque |
110 LB-FT @ 6,500 RPM |
|
Transmission |
Six-speed, slipper clutch |
|
Top Speed |
120 MPH |
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BMW R 1300 RT Chassis: Smart Engineering, Confident Control
Like so many other things, Beemer has its own ideas about framework and suspension on the R 1300 RT. The structure is fairly straightforward, with a main frame section, a bolt-on subframe, and a stressed-member engine that completes the framing and contributes to its final rigidity. Out back, the BMW Motorrad EVO-Paralever suspension rocks a single-side swingarm and a central suspension strut.
However, the real magic is found in the Evo-Telelever suspension up front, which uses a central coil-over shock absorber for support separate from the telescopic forks. This also separates suspension loads from steering loads, enabling sensitive, responsive steering that makes running the twisties look like a fun afternoon. Dual front brakes ensure ample stopping power, while the standard-equipped lets you safely get the most out of the anchors.
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BMW R 1300 RT Comfort & Touring Tech: Sporty Where It Counts
The overall design is very sport bike-ish, with a jockey footpeg arrangement and short, vibration-isolated handlebars that encourage and enable a racing tuck. With a windshield this tall, your tuck will be much more relaxed. Stock heated grips will also help extend your riding season a bit. A broad saddle and pillion see to the two-up comfort, and the passenger also has a nice, beefy pair of J.C. handles to grip.
New saddlebags and a top case come ready to pop right on, so you can mix and match for different cargo capacities. The bags are lighted, and one bag has an integrated power socket so you can charge a device on the go. A top-shelf audio system lets you take your jams with you, while Beemer’s Connectivity Hub connects with accessories like heated gear and heads-up display glasses.
Forward-looking radar keeps you locked in, not worn out
Various electronic options are available to fill out the stock package. Perhaps the most interesting by far are the Automatic Shift Assistant, which turns your manual into a wimpshift. There’s also the Riding Assistant, which acts like a cruise control with a forward-looking radar that allows you to maintain a set following distance between yourself and the traffic ahead.
Key Dimensions
|
Seat Height |
32.2 inches / 33 inches |
|
Wheelbase |
59 inches |
|
Fuel Capacity |
6.3 gallons |
|
Curb Weight |
620 LBS |
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BMW R 1300 RT: The Thinking Rider’s Luxury Sport Tourer
The BMW R 1300 RT neatly demolishes the idea that touring bikes are slow, soft, or strictly for the retirement crowd. Instead, it delivers a carefully engineered blend of athletic performance and long-haul refinement that feels purpose-built for riders who want it all. The boxer twin provides effortless thrust and smooth cruising manners, while the advanced chassis and suspension translate that power into confident, surprisingly playful handling.
Add in BMW’s deep bench of rider aids — radar-assisted cruise, electronic shifting, lean-sensitive braking — and the RT becomes as smart as it is capable. Comfort hasn’t been sacrificed in the name of sport, either, with heated touches, flexible luggage options, and thoughtful passenger accommodations baked in. Whether it’s carving up a favorite back road, pounding out interstate miles, or commuting in style, the R 1300 RT proves that practicality doesn’t have to be dull; it can be downright entertaining.