BMW R 1300 RT

But BMW’s engineers have not only improved the wind and weather protection; they have also given their popular tourer a makeover. A new design, improved ergonomics, the more powerful 1,300 cc boxer engine paired with a revised chassis, and plenty of electronics are the key points of the new RT. We spent over a week testing this luxury liner in everyday use, on the motorway, on twisty roads and in the rain.

Compared with its predecessor, the R 1250 RT, the new model looks slimmer and more dynamic. With LED daytime running lights integrated on both sides of the new front end, optional adaptive cornering lights and movable side panels linked to the luggage system, the overall look is distinctly more modern. From the saddle, your eye falls straight on the easy-to-read 10.25-inch TFT display, and all the handlebar controls feel high quality. The Multi-Controller familiar to BMW riders lets you select the navigation, the audio system, the various heated seat and grip settings and the riding modes. Radar-based rider aids are available as options. Collision warning, lane change warning and adaptive cruise control can ease the load on longer journeys.

As you would expect on a tourer, ergonomics take priority. The riding position is comfortable, with a relaxed knee angle. The handlebar has been moved slightly forward, giving the rider more feedback from the front wheel without putting pressure on the wrists. Despite a weight of 281 kg, the result is dynamic cornering, securely supported by the newly developed sheet-metal shell main frame with a bolted-on aluminium rear frame. BMW’s Dynamic Suspension Adjustment, DSA, which adapts damping and spring preload to the load, is complemented by Dynamic Chassis Adaptation, DCA. In short, in Sport mode the rear rises more than the front, steepening the steering head angle and reducing trail. This makes the bike more agile and eager to turn in when cornering hard. In normal riding mode, the rear lowers again, giving a flatter steering head angle and more trail, and therefore greater stability, on the motorway for example. For braking, the BMW has 310 mm twin front discs, each with a radially mounted four-piston fixed calliper, combined with lean-sensitive Integral ABS Pro.

Now to the heart of the RT, the engine. It is the 1,300 cc boxer unit from the BMW R 1300 GS. Smooth and low in vibration, it delivers plenty of pull with 149 Nm of torque. Thanks to variable intake valve timing (BMW ShiftCam technology), the twin produces ample thrust from low revs, and acceleration feels linear all the way to peak power of 145 hp at 7,750 rpm. Fuel consumption during our test was just over 5 l/100 km. The six-speed gearbox can be shifted manually or automatically via a fully automated clutch. With the ASA system, the clutch lever on the left handlebar is a thing of the past. While automatic mode makes sense in town, gear changes are a little slow when riding briskly on country roads. In that case, we recommend the much quicker manual foot shift, helped by the faultless shift assistant. Engine drag torque control prevents excessive rear-wheel slip, and the resulting hopping, when changing down. As usual at BMW, final drive is by shaft.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1300 RT not only proves itself in everyday use; its concept, advanced technology and generous equipment make it the ideal touring motorcycle. Ergonomics, comfort, electronic suspension and engine all lend themselves to a wide range of uses. The Bavarian engineers have also paid meticulous attention to practicality. In the rain, the front fairing, with its adjustable side panels and electrically adjustable windscreen, offers impressive protection. Another practical touch, both cases in the optional luggage system can be expanded from 27 to 33 litres each. The base price of €22,703.80 is easily justified by the technology on offer, but the many options quickly push the bill beyond €30,000. As we said, this is travelling first class!