Dynamic Tourer in Review - BMW R 1300 RT 2026

As every year in February and March, this year we have once again set up our Spanish "1000PS Away Garage" in the Barcelona area. We take advantage of the warmer climate, salt-free roads, and the stunning landscapes of Catalonia to kick off our test season early and test the first new motorcycle models of the year. The BMW R 1300 RS and R 1300 RT marked the beginning of the diverse test program for the following weeks. Here you can find all the tests of the new motorcycles in Spain.

At the start of the season, the excitement is palpable. Long-unridden routes beckon with memories of past riding pleasures. One of these old favorites is the GI-682 near Tossa de Mar along the Catalonian coast towards France. Rumor has it that on just about 20 kilometers, there are 365 curves snaking along the reddish cliffs of the steep coast, closely lined over small sandy beaches to the turquoise sea. A true delight! It's almost a two-hour journey, though, with single-digit temperatures, fog, and heavy morning traffic. Is it worth it? Depends on the bike. With a motorcycle where two hours of highway riding is comfortable and then the curves can be dynamically devoured, it's definitely worth it! This sounds like a perfect test for the touted comfort and promised dynamism of the R 1300 RT.

With the R 1300 RT, BMW has a clear ambition. The new generation aims to bridge the gap between a comfortable tourer and a dynamic road bike more effectively than any RT before it. To achieve this, the motorcycle has been redesigned in many areas. At its heart is the renowned 1300 Boxer engine with 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The engine is based on the current Boxer platform and features BMW's ShiftCam technology for variable intake control. Compared to the old 1250, the new engine feels noticeably more lively. It no longer delivers a high-rev hammer, but it does provide solid low-end torque, revs more eagerly, and overall conveys a more dynamic character.

The chassis has also been fundamentally rebuilt. The R 1300 RT uses a new steel sheet main frame, while an aluminum rear frame is employed at the back. Simultaneously, the gearbox has been relocated under the engine, allowing for a more compact drivetrain setup. According to BMW, this system saves around 6.5 kilograms in weight from the drivetrain and enhances mass centralization. With a curb weight of 281 kilograms, the RT remains a large motorcycle, but the technical foundation aims to make this mass more manageable in terms of riding dynamics. The technical overhaul is complemented by new aerodynamics with adjustable side panels that can offer either more cooling or increased wind protection, depending on their position.

The journey to a favorite route rarely starts with curves on a touring motorcycle. The new RT first has to prove itself on long hauls. The seating position quickly reveals that while BMW aims for more dynamism, the touring DNA is clearly retained. The rider sits upright with a relaxed knee angle and no pressure on the wrists. At the same time, the position is slightly more active than in previous RT models. The handlebars are positioned further forward and are slightly wider, which means the upper body is oriented a bit more towards the front wheel. However, it's far from being sporty or uncomfortable. At my height of about 1.85 meters, this ergonomics fit very well. Even after a longer ride, the posture feels comfortable and relaxed.

In terms of wind protection, the new RT also showcases its touring qualities. In addition to the electrically adjustable windshield, it features adjustable side panels. When opened, noticeably more air reaches the knees and legs. In the closed position, however, a very calm airflow is created with strong wind protection, which is particularly impressive on the highway. There are also numerous comfort features. The large 10.25-inch TFT display offers clear visuals and can be operated via the familiar BMW Multicontroller. An actively ventilated smartphone compartment with a USB-C port allows for charging on the go. An extensive radar package with adaptive cruise control, collision warning, and lane change warning is optionally available. Combined with the optional Audio Pro system, it becomes a very comfortable travel companion for long distances.

Upon reaching the destination, it becomes evident how well the RT fulfills its touring mission. A key component of this is the luggage system. The RT comes standard with side cases, each with a 27-liter capacity. For the first time, BMW offers an optional Vario luggage system for the RT. This can be adjusted between 27 and 33 liters per side, allowing the vehicle width to be reduced for everyday use or expanded for longer tours. The cases are electrified and can be opened via the central locking system. Additionally, they feature interior lighting and a USB-C port in the left case.

During the long journey, the character of the new Boxer engine becomes apparent. The 1300 feels confident and refined. It delivers strong pull from low revs while providing enough rev-happiness to be ridden dynamically. The engine runs very smoothly and with minimal vibrations. Combined with the semi-active suspension, it offers a pleasant riding experience on long stretches. Bumps are neatly absorbed without the suspension feeling mushy. Despite its role as a touring motorcycle, the RT gives the impression, even on the way there, that it can do more than just comfortably rack up miles.

On the winding road, the R 1300 RT finally reveals its other side. It is based on BMW's well-known suspension concept with Evo Telelever at the front and Evo Paralever at the rear. This is complemented by the new Dynamic Chassis Adaptation system, or DCA for short. This goes beyond a conventional semi-active suspension. In addition to adjusting damping and spring rate, the system also changes the chassis geometry depending on the selected riding mode.

In the sporty Dynamic Pro mode, the rear lifts by about 30 millimeters and the front by around 8 millimeters. This alters the steering head angle, reduces the trail, and increases cornering clearance. This technical approach is immediately noticeable on the road. The RT leans into curves surprisingly easily and remains very neutral. Despite its size, it feels willing and precise. Particularly striking is that the high weight is hardly noticeable when riding. The centralization of mass and the new geometry ensure that the bike feels significantly more agile than one would expect from a 281-kilogram touring motorcycle.

Another interesting feature of the new RT is the ASA system. The automated shifting technology goes beyond a traditional quickshifter. Two electromechanical actuators handle both clutching and gear changes. The rider can choose between a manual mode and an automatic riding mode. In automatic mode, the motorcycle completely takes over gear selection, while in manual mode, the rider can still shift manually.

In operation, the system works surprisingly intuitively. Gear changes are smooth and appropriate for the riding situation. On longer journeys, the system significantly reduces the rider's workload. At the same time, it's always possible to intervene manually and choose the gears yourself. The manual mode remains interesting, especially for a more sporty riding style, but in everyday touring, the ASA shows its strengths. Combined with the confident Boxer, it creates a very relaxed yet dynamic riding experience.

Despite all the technical innovations, the RT remains a large motorcycle. The ready-to-ride weight of 281 kilograms is noticeable when stationary and during maneuvering. However, once the motorcycle is in motion, this impression significantly diminishes. The RT feels stable and predictable. Even at low speeds, it remains well controllable. The interplay of suspension, geometry, and engine makes the motorcycle feel lighter than the raw numbers would suggest.

The braking system complements the character of the RT well. Up front, dual discs with radially mounted four-piston calipers and a diameter of 310 millimeters are employed. The pressure point is pleasantly soft-tuned yet precise, allowing for excellent modulation of the brakes. Combined with the lean-optimized Integral ABS Pro, the motorcycle remains stable even during ambitious riding. The high lean angle clearance in Dynamic Pro mode further ensures that sporty riding on winding roads is possible without components touching down too early.

The ride to the Costa Brava impressively demonstrated the versatility of the BMW R 1300 RT. The dynamic Boxer engine, excellent ergonomics, and state-of-the-art electronics make it both a mileage eater and a corner carver.

There are hardly any flaws that could mar the overall impression. The biggest downside is the considerable price. In Germany, you have to invest at least €23,030 for the RT. In Austria, it starts at €26,180. Our almost fully equipped test machine even reaches €29,745 or €33,854. A hefty price for a hefty motorcycle.