BMW R1200RT motorcycle: technical specifications, comparison with competitors and reviews

Motorbikes from BMW, whose headquarters are in Germany, have long been considered legendary and called the standard. They are a direct example of strong and reliable cooperation. That is why it surprises no one that every connoisseur of such transport is looking forward to the appearance of a new product.

One of the most successful models recently introduced to the market is the BMW R1200RT (reviewed in this article). It is necessary to clarify that experts and buyers characterize this vehicle as a fairly high-quality motorbike, which is excellent for both high-speed driving and tourist trips. This is what we will talk about next.

general description

This new product is a motorcycle, the manufacturer of which classified it as a touring class. The level of comfort is considered one of the leaders in world ratings. The developers were able to create a bike that, even at high speeds, will not create any inconvenience for the driver. There is a special aerodynamic windshield that will provide protection from air flow.

The handles on the seat and steering wheel have special heating functions. The driver's seat is height adjustable, the range is from 805 to 825 mm. If the need arises when purchasing a higher/lower seat, the buyer can order what he wants for an additional cost. If we compare this model with previous modifications, the one described has a narrower frame. The steering handles and cushions can be adjusted without difficulty.

Generations

This transport model has three generations.

The first was produced from 2005 to 2009. It differs in that it was equipped with an engine with two cylinders. Its power was 110 horsepower.

The second generation was produced from 2009 to 2013. A new motor was installed on it. Torque figures have been increased. The maximum speed has increased. In addition, the model received minor changes to the body.

The third generation, which is described in this article, has been produced since 2014. The engine is liquid cooled and produces 125 horsepower. The clutch is made in an oil bath. The appearance has been completely updated. A new frame and device panel have been made, and ergonomics have been improved. Compared to other modifications, electronic options were installed, which we will talk about a little below. This model can be considered quite successful and popular. She is known all over the world.

Ergonomics

This BMW R1200RT motorbike, the oil of which can be changed easily at a service station. service, was created on the basis of previous modifications, which were completely protected from bad weather. Protective characteristics have been improved.

Many owners note that when conducting a test drive, special conditions are created to check the operation of the vehicle: the temperature is near zero, it is snowing. That is why they are able to fully find out how successfully the heated seats and steering wheel grips were heated, and how well the windshield performs its functions. The special properties of the windshield, deflectors and ideally positioned mirrors were able to perform perfectly. Cold winds and strong gusts rarely bother the driver. The legs are protected by fairings, which is why you don’t have to wear any overly warm shoes. Even in sub-zero weather it will be difficult to freeze, since at the same time you need to remember that some parts of the device are heated.

Some buyers note one drawback. With the window raised to its maximum, if the driver is about 180 cm tall, the view is blocked due to the top of this glass. That is why, if there is no snow and wind, then it is better to lower the windshield a little so that nothing causes discomfort. It should be noted that even in this position, wind noise will not bother the driver.

Engine

The BMW R1200RT engine has a volume of 1170 cubic centimeters. It first appeared on the R120GS model. After successful tests, this motor was installed on a new motorcycle. It runs on 2 cylinders and 4 strokes. Power was increased from 110 to 125 horsepower. This motorbike uses traction, which provides fast acceleration. If we talk about technical characteristics, this motorcycle accelerates from zero speed to hundreds in just 4 seconds. This motor differs from its older brother in that it has a large generator, as well as an enlarged crankshaft. The nodes received a serious swing effect. But with all the characteristics described above, the developers were able to improve the motorcycle and completely eliminate vibration. The engine runs smoothly both at idle and at maximum speed. There is no hesitation or jerking. Fuel consumption is about 5 liters per 100 km.

The BMW R1200RT is a true tourer. He doesn't care about rain and cold. If a goal is set, this motorcycle will get to it, one way or another, and deliver its rider to it with maximum comfort. Bavarians know a lot about good motorcycles.

The BMW R1200RT touring motorcycle is a relative newcomer to the company’s lineup. It's not as luxurious as the BMW K1600GT, but if the latter can be compared to a limousine, then the exact analogy for the R1200RT would be some comfortable and powerful German sedan. This motorcycle has everything to make the trip as enjoyable as possible.

The BMW R1200RT engine, coupled with a 6-speed gearbox, is borrowed from the famous “goose” - the R 1200 GS model. The air-liquid-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine stands out for its excellent and yet balanced characteristics - 125 hp, 125 nm of torque. It is equally good both at the start, when it is able to instantly pick up speed, and during long trips, when you need to maintain cruising speed hour after hour. A noticeable dip in the BMW R1200RT engine is only felt at the very end of the upper rev range. However, this is not a sportbike, right? At the same time, no parasitic vibrations bother the motorcyclist. Marvelous. Traditionally for BMW motorcycles, the R1200RT is stuffed with all kinds of electronics. Traction control monitors traction and many other factors, and the on-board computer allows you to switch the engine to one of three operating modes - dynamic, urban and designed for driving in rainy weather. In particular, the “rain” mode will not allow a sudden opening of the gas to throw the motorcycle into a skid, without giving more power to the wheel than necessary.

The BMW R1200RT suspensions are, without exaggeration, gorgeous. They are completely borrowed from the Bavarian touring flagship BMW K1600 GT. A fairly wide range of settings allows you to adjust the suspension to suit your needs. At the same time, they are good for fairly sharp maneuvers, obediently moving the motorcycle to a new trajectory, as well as for long rides, including on asphalt that is not of the best quality. And the aforementioned traction control system is the pride of BMW Motorrad. She vigilantly monitors a bunch of parameters at the same time and protects the overly dashing biker.

A nice feature of the BMW R1200RT is the hill start assist system, similar to that installed on many modern cars. If you need to move the motorcycle and at the same time prevent it from rolling back, this system will carefully hold the brake. Miracles, and that's all. In any case, on the BMW R1200RT, whose dry weight is about 275 kg, it will not be superfluous.

The touring class puts forward its own demands on motorcycles, and one of them is the range without refueling. The BMW R1200RT is fine with this point. The volume of the gas tank is 25 liters. Fuel consumption is from approximately 6.5 liters per hundred and above. It's worth filling with AI-95 - the injector is quite demanding on the quality of the fuel. But with a quiet ride, the R1200RT is capable of traveling 300-400 km on one tank.

As for comfort and ease of operation, the Bavarians are doing well with this. Of course, the BMW R1200RT is a heavy and large motorcycle, which imposes certain restrictions, but it is comfortable to sit on, the instrument panel is perfectly readable at any time of the day, and all control devices are located where sound logic dictates they should be. And the extremely comfortable standard seats do not evoke the slightest desire to change them for others.

Wind protection is also excellent. The standard windshield of the BMW R1200RT does not interfere with visibility, and at the same time perfectly protects from wind and rain, covering not only the rider’s body, but also his hands. However, in case of particularly cold weather, BMW designers equipped the motorcycle with heated not only handlebars, but also seats.

The braking system is, of course, good - it's a BMW! Two discs in the front, one in the back - practically a standard. Brembo brakes work like a Swiss watch, so a heavy motorcycle stops very efficiently, and the ABS works like a charm. There is not the slightest desire to modify the brake system of the BMW R1200RT.

Based on all of the above, one conclusion can be drawn. This motorcycle has only one serious drawback - the price. In addition, if you want to buy not a “naked” BMW R1200RT, but with additional options like built-in navigation, panniers and heating, you will have to shell out even more.

Motorcycle operation

The on-board computer of the BMW R1200R, which has excellent reviews, provides three types of driving.

The first one is called Rain. Translated into Russian it means “rain”. This mode is suitable for driving in cloudy weather or on wet asphalt.

The second operating mode is called Road, which is translated into Russian as “road”. This mode should be used if a person is making a leisurely trip or just driving around the city.

The third Dynamic mode is designed for those who love high speeds. The gas handle works and shows itself perfectly, there are no dips or jerks. The electronics do not turn off at low engine power, and dynamic driving depends on the mode that is activated. Stability control also pleases many bikers. The function of this system is that it monitors how much the wheels are spinning. Accordingly, it reduces the fuel supply if there is an imbalance. This assistant works differently in operating modes, so driver safety is improved.

Operating modes

In the BMW R1200RT model, the on-board computer provides three driving modes. The first of them is called Rain and is best suited for trips in rainy weather or just on wet asphalt, the second Road is intended for leisurely travel and the urban cycle, the third Dynamic is designed specifically for lovers of high speeds. The throttle handle functions without dips or jerks in any of them. Moreover, even a small fraction of the engine power is not dampened by the electronics, and the dynamics depend solely on the activated mode. One cannot fail to note the stability control system. Its function is to monitor wheel speed and reduce fuel supply when an imbalance occurs. It should be noted that the settings of this assistant differ in different driving modes, which significantly increases driver safety.

Transmission

The BMW R1200RT motorcycle (it has excellent reviews) has a high-speed manual gearbox. The manufacturer took care to introduce a special comprehensive assistant. The assistant is necessary in order to change gears from top to bottom as smoothly and easily as possible. But in general, it must be said that the bike is designed in such a way that even with the assistant turned off, the ride is as smooth as possible. The standard package also includes a special system that helps you start downhill. It holds the brakes on its own, which helps the motorcycle not roll back. Many buyers report that without this assistant it is quite difficult to start driving a vehicle that weighs 300 kg.

BMW R1200RT 2010 review

2010 BMW R1200RT The new engine, called Boxer Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), with some modifications and updates, was taken from the BMW HP2 Sport. The 1170 cm3 flat-twin engine produces 110 hp. and torque 120 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

The new R1200RT now has better torque and acceleration, with a smoother torque curve. Also noteworthy are the ESA electronic suspension adjustment, redesigned fairing and handlebar controls, which include three new ride modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

SHTRLZ : I had a chance to drive it around Moscow, on a test drive from BMW. A test piece of money. The bike is easier to control. At first I tried to poke something there - I was getting used to the controls. Like in a spacecraft. Then he went his separate ways. I set up the radio, instead of chanson - RockFM. The spin there is so funny. Convenient. Electric glass. It drops to the lowest position and the wind blows away... And if you get tired of it, then it rises completely and finally doesn’t blow anywhere. The ESA suspension is also an interesting thing. On the go, it switches to different sport-comfort modes with or without a passenger... The instrument panel is readable and understandable very clearly. We were driving around Moscow in a convoy; I didn’t check the maximum speed there and other characteristics. But I believe the stated parameters. If I become rich, I’ll buy it for my collection.

Technical characteristics of BMW R1200RT:

Engine

Volume: 1,170 cm3
Bore and stroke: 101 x 73 mm
Power: 110 hp at 7750 rpm
Torque: 120 Nm
Position: Opposite
Number of cylinders: 2
Compression ratio/fuel quality: 12/S 95-98 RON
Recommended: 98 RON
Camshaft Position: DOHC
Valves per cylinder: 4
Injection and exhaust diameter: 39/33 mm
Throttle Diameter: 50mm

Electrical system

Alternator: 720W
Battery: 12V and 19Ah
Headlight: W 3 x H7
Starter: 1.2 kW

Transmission/Gearbox

Clutch: single plate clutch
Gearbox: 6 speed
Primary gear ratio: 1.737
Gear ratios:
I - 2.375
II - 1.696
III - 1.296
IV - 1.065
V - 0.939
VI - 0.848

Final Drive Ratio: 2.62

Suspension

Frame: tubular, steel
Front suspension: BMW Telelever
Rear suspension: BMW Paralever
Travel front and rear: 120 and 135 mm
Wheelbase 1484 mm
Steering wheel turn: 63.4*
Front brake: double disc brake, diameter 320 mm
Rear brake: disc brake, diameter 264 mm
BMW Motorrad Composite ABS

Alloy wheels

front 3.5 x 17
rear 5.0 x 17

Tires

front: 120/70 ZR 17
rear: 180/55 ZR 17

Dimensions and Weight

Length: 2230 mm
Width with mirrors: 904 mm
Seat height: standard - 820-841 mm, option - 780-800 mm
Ultra low seat height: 750mm
Weight: 229 kg
Max. permissible weight: 495 kg
Fuel tank capacity: 25 l

Performance data

Acceleration 100km/h: 3.8 s
Maximum speed: more than 200 km/h

Suspension

The suspension deserves special words of praise. It was borrowed from another model of this manufacturer. We are talking about the S1060GT bike. But when assembling the described bike, the systems were improved. The electronics were selected as closely as possible to modern reality. Thanks to the suspension settings, you can change modes even while on the move. Due to this, you can alternate between soft, hard and normal driving modes. The suspension depends entirely on the engine options.

The on-board computer is configured to automatically fully monitor and regulate the operation of the springs. In the comments, buyers describe that the driving behavior depends entirely on the suspension settings. In hard mode, the BMW R1200RT motorbike (owner reviews are described in more detail in the article) resembles a powerful sports vehicle, while in soft mode it resembles a large scooter. The suspension depends entirely on the engine options. The on-board computer is configured to automatically fully monitor and regulate the operation of the springs. The ground clearance has been reduced when compared with the previous modifications. Therefore, the driver can safely take turns on the race track.

More about electronics

This BMW R1200RT motorcycle, whose technical characteristics are amazing, was released in 2014. He is considered a leader in the use of electronics. It should be noted that it is equipped with a large number of systems that help facilitate movement and make it as safe as possible. There is also GPS support. Of course, a large color TFT display is installed. We will talk in more detail about the systems described above below.

The suspension adjustment function has three settings. We are talking about mild, normal, severe. It depends on what kind of driving the driver wants to do. Configuration is performed either automatically or manually. It should be noted that there is a small nuance: if a person has the dynamic driving mode activated, which automatically turns on the hard suspension setting, then the driver can manually switch the suspension to any other type. The following system deprives the driver of fine-tuning the controls. It is so comfortable that this drawback is not felt. If a person does not like electronics, then he may notice that the basic configuration of this motorbike comes with the automatic function deactivated.

The TFT display is considered new on the entire R series of motorcycles. The diagonal is 5.7 inches. The screen displays information from the on-board computer and audio system. Using it, you can also monitor the settings of the driving mode, suspension, air temperature, tire condition, as well as multimedia. There may be reflections that make viewing difficult, but the display has two positions. Accordingly, you can easily find one in which the text will be readable. During the presentation, the company focused on this BMW R1200RT motorbike (technical characteristics are specified above), as a vehicle that has a special “Premium” option package. The test bike comes equipped with some of these features. We are talking about central locking and assistant. There is also an anti-theft system. You can purchase these options by paying a certain amount at a time. In addition, the navigation system is also sold separately.

Touring motorcycle BMW R1200RT 2014

Well, IMZ presented its new product for 2014, and the “Night Wolves” are thinking about a powerful, beautiful motorcycle, then other manufacturers do not dream for long, but bring their wildest ideas to life. Well, still, what can the trendsetters throughout the motorcycle world - the BMW company - offer us?

This year, the largest motorcycle manufacturers have done a great job, preparing many cool new products for the next season. Among other things, of course, it is worth saying a few words about the new BMW R1200RT 2014 motorcycle, which is equipped with a liquid-cooled boxer engine, like the new generation BMW R1200GS.

The maximum engine performance characteristics of the R1200RT are identical to those of the GS: 125 hp. at 7700 rpm and 125 Nm at 6500 rpm. However, Bavarian engineers have slightly increased the centrifugal forces of the crankshaft and alternator to make the engine run smoother, and thanks to longer gear ratios the power unit runs at lower speeds.

The new R1200RT is equipped with Gear Shift Assist Pro, which allows you to change gears both up and down without using the clutch lever or throttle. A sensor located on the transmission output shaft provides a signal to the GSAP system, which modifies torque to eliminate stress on the transmission and allows shifting in the same way as using a clutch. Thus, GSAP is not an automatic gear changing system, but only a shift assistant.

The design of the motorcycle frame, made of steel pipes, has been modified to increase directional stability. The mounting points of the front and rear suspensions have also been changed - BMW Telelever and BMW EVO Paralever. This made it possible to optimize the center of gravity, which, in turn, had a positive effect on the handling of the motorcycle. As an option, the motorcycle can be equipped with an electronic suspension adjustment system.

The BMW R1200RT was and remains one of the best in the road touring segment among all motorcycles presented before and after it. This year it has become 20% more powerful and more comfortable due to this: BMW hints that now the same cruising speeds (and for RT this is 140-160 km/h) are achieved at lower speeds, which reduces not only vibrations, but also risks on the road. Peak power increased to 125 hp. at 7750 rpm, the same torque figure. The data is an exact analogue of the BMW R1200GS presented at last year’s EICMA. So they didn't become mainstream news. The main news is the motorcycle itself, which, by the way, has already gone on sale in some European countries and the UK. New introductions in the electronic package: ASC (stabilization system) with two modes Road and Rain, names that speak for themselves, as well as a “dynamic driving” mode with the function of the so-called “Hill Start Control”, i.e. an assistant when starting on a positive slope, so as not to stall (the thing came from the world of motorsports, where it is more often called Launch control). One of the main problems of the previous R1200RT was the tight and very stiff clutch, which suffered greatly from sudden movements. Gear Shift Assistant, similar to the K1600GT, is implemented to prevent this in RT. The bypass system makes it easier to manipulate the lever, and even allows you to avoid using the clutch when shifting up and down, as was done on the factory BMW Motorrad Superbikes - by the way, for the first time in history, such technology is used in a “civilian” tourer. The chassis with BMW Evo Paralever suspension and fashionable Dynamic ESA is of course now included in the (optional) feature set. Electronic suspension adjustment was very useful in the previous version and worked flawlessly, but now it is also dynamic, i.e. the setting changes automatically. Generally great!

The BMW R1200RT motorcycle can operate in two switchable modes. As standard, the new product is equipped with ASC (electronic stability control), while an additional software update allows the use of a more dynamic mode, and you can also install a system that helps when starting or stopping on a slope.

The BMW R1200RT suspension combines proprietary telelever and paralever. The 2014 model's fairing is redesigned and a new headlight is installed, which is somewhat reminiscent of the K1600GT's headlight with LED low beams (optional). In addition to the fairing, there is a new adjustable windshield that provides additional protection from bad weather.

The 2014 BMW R1200RT motorcycle has a 5.7-inch TFT display, which displays a lot of useful information from the on-board computer. The speedometer and tachometer are made in a traditional style. An audio system with remote control can be installed as an option. Hard cases are standard, although BMW offers optional central locking with an anti-theft system. The motorcycle's electronics have also been improved. A color TFT display took center stage on the dashboard, which improved the readability of information. The motorcycle is equipped with a computer system that provides the driver with information about fuel consumption, mileage, speed, average speed, voltage in the motorcycle’s on-board network, travel time, distance to the next service, etc. The R1200RT now features the same audio system as the BMW K1600, with improved woofers.

The bike's design remains largely unchanged from the 2013 R1200RT. The size of the rear-view mirrors was reduced, and their position was also changed to improve visibility. The seat, handlebars and footpegs have been lowered slightly to increase driver comfort during stops.

The 2014 R1200RT is available in three new paint finishes: Quartz blue metallic, Callisto gray metallic matt and Ebony metallic.

Other optional accessories include BMW ESA semi-automatic suspension and quickshifter. Compare the tidy with the IMZ

And this is the answer to all Competitors

Cost of equipment

There is a huge list of additional equipment that can be purchased at an additional cost. This list includes navigation, wardrobe trunks, and sound system. The heated seats and grips are considered optional, which is why you have to pay extra for it. This is considered one of the main disadvantages of the BMW R1200RT motorcycle. The photo is presented in the article. In the showrooms of Russian dealers, the cost of a bike is 850 thousand rubles. for standard equipment. This cost seems too high to many fans. But on the other hand, we should not forget about who the manufacturer of this motorcycle is.

Additional equipment and cost

The list of additional equipment available to buyers of this motorcycle for a fee is quite extensive. This includes a sound system, navigation, wardrobe trunks and much more. It should be noted that the seat and handle heating function is also optional and you have to pay extra for it. Reviews from many owners call this one of the main disadvantages of the model. As for its cost, in the showrooms of domestic dealers the price of a BMW R1200RT in standard configuration starts at 850 thousand rubles. With the installation of additional equipment and systems, it can exceed the mark of one million rubles. This cost may seem very high to many motorists. On the other hand, we must not forget what brand of motorcycle we are talking about in this case.