BMW R 1300 RT with World-First Innovation for 2025

BMW is well aware of the big shoes to fill. The R 1300 RT inherits the throne from the touring queen, the R 1250 RT, but aims to expand its usability with a significantly more dynamic riding experience. Featuring an entirely new frame, a revamped engine and gearbox unit, cutting-edge assistance systems, and a strong focus on ergonomics and comfort, it's designed to be the premium touring motorcycle for two.

The look of the RT is polarizing. On one hand, it has been visibly slimmed down, featuring a redesigned front with a flatter tank ramp. On the other hand, the windshield and luggage systems now have increased maximum dimensions. The fairing has been aerodynamically optimized, with integrated side wings for airflow or weather protection regulation. The standard seat height is 780 mm, with optional taller 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 enhanced: longer seats, improved legroom, optional seat heating, and an electrically adjustable windshield. The RT comes standard with side cases.

The RT also employs the new 1300 Boxer engine, delivering 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The transmission unit is positioned under 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 redesigned for smoother operation but now requires inspection for the first time on the RT and is not built to last the motorcycle's lifetime.

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

Dynamic ESA comes standard, with the optional Dynamic Chassis Adaptation (DCA) available. DCA offers two chassis geometries that can be switched via riding modes: comfort-oriented (with a shallower steering head angle and softer setup) or sporty (with a steeper angle, firmer setup, and raised rear). In the Dynamic and Dynamic Pro modes, the rear is lifted by 30 mm through increased preload, and the front is raised by 8 mm by switching to a stiffer spring rate. The result is increased lean angle clearance and enhanced front-end feel. We're eagerly anticipating the first test of this feature.

The wheels are hollow-cast, 1.4 kg lighter than before, with tire dimensions of 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17, instead of 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 consists of a full LED headlight, optionally available with Headlight Pro, BMW's cornering light, which for the first time includes pitch compensation during braking and acceleration, and adaptive lighting modes that automatically adjust the beam and intensity.

Newly introduced are the enhanced functions of the optional Riding Assistant:

• ACC (Active Cruise Control): Radar-based adaptive cruise control that automatically maintains the chosen distance to the vehicle in front.
• FCW (Front Collision Warning): Alerts against rapid approach to a vehicle ahead and prepares the braking system for an emergency stop.
• SWW (Side Warning Warning): Monitors the blind spot and warns of unseen vehicles during lane changes.
• RECW (Rear End Collision Warning): Detects potential rear-end collisions from vehicles approaching from behind and activates an increased frequency hazard warning signal.

Dynamic Cruise Control with braking function is standard. The braking system takes strong cues from the GS: dual front discs (310 mm), single rear disc (276 mm), Integral ABS Pro, with an optional sport brake available.

The RT comes standard with side cases offering 27 liters of storage capacity, with optional Vario cases (electrically unlockable), a 39- or 54-liter top case with a heated backrest, and the Audio Pro system featuring high/mid-range speakers and an adaptive sound profile. The new control logic with favorite buttons on the fairing is designed to facilitate access to main functions.

Optional extras include comfort passenger packages, heated grips (for rider and passenger), central locking, a main stand with lifting aid, navigation preparation, intelligent seat heating, and much more.

Despite various weight reduction measures (engine, drivetrain unit, 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 substantial 229 kg.

Regarding availability, there’s good news: The 1300 RS will be available at dealerships starting at the end of May. The base price in Germany is set at 22,890 Euros.

The RT will be offered in the following variants:

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

You can find prices for accessories and options most clearly in the BMW Configurator. For Austria, prices are available directly on the BMW website.