BMW R 1300 RT with World-First Feature for 2025

BMW is well aware of the big shoes to fill. The R 1300 RT takes over from the touring queen, the R 1250 RT, but aims to broaden its appeal with significantly more dynamic handling. Featuring an entirely new frame, a new engine and transmission unit, cutting-edge assist systems, and a strong emphasis on ergonomics and comfort, it aspires to be the premium touring motorcycle for two.

The RT's design is polarizing. On one hand, it has been visibly streamlined, with a redesigned front featuring a flatter tank ramp. On the other, the windshield and luggage systems have reached new maximum dimensions. The fairing has been aerodynamically optimized, with integrated side wings for fresh air or weather protection regulation. The standard seat height is 780 mm, with optional higher variants available up to 860 mm.

The handlebars are flatter, wider, and positioned further forward—ideal for a more active riding posture. Rider and passenger comfort have been further developed with longer seat surfaces, improved legroom, optional seat heating, and an electrically adjustable windshield. The RT comes standard with side cases.

The RT also employs the new 1,300 cc Boxer engine, producing 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The transmission unit is positioned beneath the engine, saving space and weight (a reduction of 6.5 kg in the drivetrain). The optional ASA system offers fully automatic clutching and shifting, with the option for manual intervention. The shaft drive has been re-engineered for smoother operation but, for the first time on the RT, requires inspection and is not a lifetime component.

The tourer's foundation is a newly developed steel sheet main frame with an aluminum trellis subframe. Up front, the new EVO Telelever system with a flex element is employed, while the rear features an EVO Paralever swingarm with a continuous axle.

Dynamic ESA is standard, with the optional Dynamic Chassis Adaptation (DCA) available. DCA allows for two chassis geometries, switchable through riding modes: comfort-oriented (shallower steering head angle, softer setup) or sporty (steeper angle, firmer setup, raised rear). In the Dynamic and Dynamic Pro modes, the rear is raised by 30 mm via preload increase, and the front is lifted by 8 mm through a harder spring rate. The result is greater lean angle clearance and improved front-end feel. The first test of this feature is eagerly anticipated.

The wheels are hollow-cast, 1.4 kg lighter than before, with tire dimensions of 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17, up from the previous 180 width.

The RT comes standard with a 10.25-inch TFT display featuring Full HD resolution, split-screen functionality, and map integration. A connectivity hub allows control of external devices. The smartphone compartment is actively ventilated and offers USB-C charging.

The lighting system includes a full LED headlight, optionally available with Headlight Pro, which incorporates BMW's cornering light with pitch compensation during braking and acceleration, as well as adaptive light modes that automatically adjust the beam and intensity.

New optional features include the expanded functions of the Riding Assistant:

• ACC (Active Cruise Control): Adaptive cruise control with radar sensor. Automatically maintains the selected distance to the vehicle ahead.
• FCW (Front Collision Warning): Front collision alert. Warns of rapid approach to other vehicles and prepares the braking system for emergency stops.
• SWW (Side Warning Warning): Monitors the blind spot and warns during lane changes about vehicles unnoticed in the rearview mirror.
• RECW (Rear End Collision Warning): Detects potential rear-end collisions from approaching vehicles and activates a high-frequency warning flash signal.

Dynamic Cruise Control with braking function is standard. The braking system is heavily inspired by the GS, featuring dual front discs (310 mm), a single rear disc (276 mm), Integral ABS Pro, and an optional sport brake upgrade.

The RT comes standard with side cases offering 27 liters of storage capacity. Optional features include Vario cases (electronically lockable), a 39- or 54-liter top case with a heated backrest, and the Audio Pro system with high/mid-range speakers and an adaptive sound profile. The new control logic with favorite buttons on the fairing is designed to make accessing main functions easier.

Optional extras include comfort packages for the passenger, heated grips (for both rider and passenger), central locking, a main stand with lift assist, navigation preparation, intelligent seat heating, and more.

Despite various weight-reduction measures (engine, drivetrain, wheels), the R 1300 RT has a ready-to-ride weight of 281 kg, which is 2 kg more than its predecessor. The payload capacity in the base version is a generous 229 kg.

Good news regarding availability: The 1300 RS will be available at dealerships from the end of May. The base price in Germany is €22,890.

The RT will be available in the following variants:

• Base: Alpine White 3 uni
• Triple Black: Blackstorm metallic
• Impulse: Racingblue metallic
• Option 719 Camargue: Blue Ridge Mountain metallic

You'll find the most comprehensive pricing for accessories and options in the BMW Configurator. For Austria, prices are available directly on the BMW site.