BMW Motorrad has given its touring lineup a major refresh with the reveal of the new R1300 RS and R1300 RT, both powered by the same 1300cc boxer engine found in the recently introduced R1300 R naked bike. This marks a significant leap for BMW’s sport-touring and grand-touring machines, not just in performance but also in chassis design and electronics.
Most Powerful Boxer Yet
At the heart of both models is a new 1300cc two-cylinder boxer engine producing 143bhp at 7,750rpm and 149 Nm torque at 6,500rpm — making it the most powerful boxer engine BMW has ever built. This bump in power stems from a new bore and stroke configuration of 106.5mm x 73mm, improving performance over the outgoing motor.
BMW R1300 RS
Designed for the sporty tourer, the R1300 RS features updated aerodynamics, new styling, and enhanced ride dynamics. Riders can choose from standard riding modes – Rain, Road, and Eco – with optional Dynamic and Dynamic Pro via the “Riding Modes Pro” package. A Performance variant adds adjustable footrests, DTC Shift, sport tyres, sport seats, and milled parts for a more aggressive package.
A newly developed steel sheet-metal main frame replaces the previous tubular design, paired with a die-cast aluminium rear frame. Suspension duties are managed by a 47mm upside-down fork up front and BMW’s Evo Paralever system at the rear. The RS rolls on lightweight 17-inch hollow-spoke alloy wheels and features cornering ABS and optional sport brakes with titanium-colored calipers.
BMW R1300 RT
Sharing the same engine and chassis underpinnings, the R1300 RT is tailored for long-distance comfort. It gets the Telelever Evo front suspension — also seen on the R1300 GS — that isolates steering from suspension movement for greater ride stability. A 10.25-inch TFT display with built-in navigation and a new Connectivity Hub comes as standard, emphasizing its touring focus.
High-Tech Safety and Riding Assist
Both models can be optioned with BMW’s Riding Assistant, which includes Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Change Warning (SWW) for improved road safety.
Color and Trim Options
The BMW R1300 RS is available in Racing Blue Metallic, Triple Black (Blackstorm Metallic), Performance (Lightwhite Uni), and 719 Cuyamaca (Brooklyn Grey Metallic).
The BMW R1300 RT is offered in Alpine White 3, Triple Black (Blackstorm Metallic), Racing Blue Metallic, and 719 Camargue (Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic).
