I've been a long distance touring rider for as long as I've been riding. That's in the neighborhood of 50 years now. My first distance ride was with my Dad at 18 years of age on a 1971 Honda CB350 twin. I was a kid and didn't know any better but it got me hooked. Since then, I went through a 1978 Yamaha XS 650, a 1983 BMW R80RT, a 1993 Honda Goldwing Aspencade, a 1998 Honda ST1100A, a 2009 Harley Ultra Classic, and my current bike, a 2013 BMW R1200RT. I can definitively say, my current BMW is the absolute best touring bike I've ever owned. All the bikes I mentioned had their good and bad points but the R1200RT has the best good to bad ratio of any bike I've owned. The biggest selling point for me is weather protection. None of the other bikes I've ridden could keep the wind off of me as well as the R1200RT does. That, together with seating comfort, fuel economy and it's associated driving range, makes this bike #1 in my book. I'd love to upgrade to the new R1250RT. I'm very impressed with everything I've read about it but that's just not in the cards for now.
I couldn't agree more with you. After my K1600gt, I could sometimes miss the softness, torque and SOUND of the inline 6. I bought a R1250R (because weight had had my health a bit destroyed?). Enjoyed it a lot. Now, I ride an R1250RT... and it's the best of all worlds. I can ride like a maniac, or just waft on the torque, i can enjoy the spaghetti roads of southern alps and côte d'azur, at any speed, being confortably happy. That's just the closest to perfection multi-use bike you can buy (with quite a lot of money, but re-sale value is ok). I love my R1250RT. I almost always ride alone, without the Huge top case that makes the bike quite crosswind sensitive. Even the active cruise control, which I thought "stupid", has conquered me. It allows me to keep my driver's licence on the highways (otherwise, I know myself, I would rather ride at 120mph with good protection. And to conclude: not only is it the best but it is the last one. And I still don't get why so pany people are buying the GS. Is it for a "length" contest ?
Thanks for this review. I couldn’t decide between this bike and the GSA. I live in Spain and these are my local roads. After re watching your review I went for the RT triple black. Been running it in today. Amazing bike. Amazing.
I bought an RT because years of manual work meant riding more sporty bikes hurt, lucky if I could last an hour, this meant my bike spent more time in the shed than on the road, 200 miles between MOT's. The RT has just about replaced my car, can get a weeks shopping in those panniers, I go out for a ride and find I just spent 2 to 3 hours on the bike, even in the middle of a UK winter, only avoid riding it if its going to be icy. the handling is amazing for something that looks such a big lump, it surprised my 25 year old nephew when he followed me out for a back lane blast, and this means that between MOT's is now over 6000 miles, would be more, but I work away a lot, so don't use it to commute. The best bike is subjective, but its the best for me at this point in my life as I can still be out riding a motorbike, something I've done for many decades and will be a very sad day when I'm no longer able to.
Last week I traded in my 2020 S1000XR and bought a 2021 RT. I was so fed up with the nervous and jerky XR that I went back to the RT. I had a 1200RT in 2015, traded it in for a K1600GT in 2017, then thought it would be a good idea to go back to basics (and less weight!) and bought an F750GS and regretted it very quickly. I didn’t really miss the K1600’s power, but the lack of refinement of the 2-cylinder 800cc coffee grinder was too much, so I soon bought the new F900XR, which was fun, but not a great improvement over the 750 and then, in 2021, moved up to a six months old S1000XR. I took it on a trip to the south of France, and although it was superb in the Alps, I missed the comfort, the low-down torque, the wind protection and luggage capacity. So now, in 2023, I’m back on an RT and I’m loving every minute and km on it. I promised myself I am going to keep this one longer than the other ones combined :)
I'm thinking of making the same exact switch. Do you miss the handling of the XR or does the RT handle well enough that you don't. I would like to hear from others that have made this switch.
I"m 55 years old and have been on a Kawasaki Concours 14 since 2009. A great bike but I want to make a switch and have been looking at the XR. I like everything about the XR but have not tested one. I'm sure I would like it but there is only so much I can learn from a test ride so I'm relying on comments like yours. I also like the RT. I'm leaning toward the RT for all the reasons you pointed out. Thanks for your input.
First fell for the RT when I had an 1100 on loan from Wollaston Motorrad on a CBT instructor course in 2001. Absolutely beautiful and exposed the weakness of the GTR1000 which was my own bike at the time. I had seen the future, and it came without back pain. The A-road from Daventry to Banbury in particular was an absolute joy on this bike. To date for many reasons I have not yet been able to own one. Next time hopefully.
I couldn't agree with you more! I bought an RT exactly like the one you just rode for a number of reasons. First of all, like you said, it handles like a beast which is super important to me as I ride in the mountains every weekend. It takes me about 45 minutes to get there, so, on the freeway, I just raise the windscreen, put on the cruise control and ride in complete comfort. Once I get there, I put the 25.9 degree of rake and 4.6" trail to work and the RT rolls into the turn and holds its line beautifully! I ride with the panniers off to save 26 lbs and make it easier to filter. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, under full throttle, this bike will blur your vision and push your brain back against the inside of your skull. 0 - 60 in about 3.2 seconds and gets to 100 mph in a flash. The perfect all rounder in my opinion!
I test road a 1250 RT last week in the Santa Monica Mountains. Absolutely superb, how easily this bike flicks from side to side, it's ability to choose do you want the inside, middle or outside of the lane you're on, in the twisties, with so minor a change in input. The bike just seems to turn so intuititively. It's everything my 2023 1250 GS is, but with more ease, a little bit more firm of a ride on bumpy roads, and much lower center of gravity. The bike I rode had maybe 1.5 gallons of fuel in the tank when I was handed the keyfob, so that may have some effect. The Michelin Road 6's on this bike are just amazing. I'd like to do a test ride some time with some Dunlop RoadSmart 4's on the rims, some time. The telelever front suspension on this bike, like my 1250 GS, is in a league all of it's own, with zero fork dive when you get on the front brakes hard, as in an emergency stop. It's just incredible at not upsetting your center of gravity balance under severe panic braking conditions.
Good review, for me you're possibly the best motorcycle journalist on RUclips. I agree with most of your points. The flat twin has never inspired like a great V twin (eg Ducati, Aprilia, Suzuki, KTM) but its low centre of gravity gives any bike a wonderful gyroscopic quality which upright cylinder bikes just cannot match. I've just traded my 2012 R1200R for a 2019 1250RT and have yet to ride it but I always thought variable valve timing would complete the development of the boxer engine. Competing with cars on quiet roads my 1200 was boss up to 100 - 120 but after that it got a bit breathy. The shiftcam addresses this and that's why I've bought one. When you're not pressing on it's a pleasure to cruise the torque wave much as you would with a powerful diesel car. The 1250 has to be the best touring bike in the world because most other manufacturers have given up! Kawasaki seems to have abandoned the Concourse (GTR) which is criminal, likewise it looks like the last-chance saloon for Yamaha's FJR (both these engines are challenged by new pollution regs but surely their manufacturers have the resources to design their way around them?). That leaves us with the Honda Goldwing (beautiful armchair but too heavy for most) and the Harley/Indian tourers which are all heavy and rather compromised in the handling department. Credit to BMW for sticking with the project and developing the technology to keep the RT on top.
After buying an RT, later trading it for a K1600GT, and buying a couple other bikes. And even riding a few others, I've realized the RT is still my favorite bike. I think I may have to buy one again.
A good review as ever. I bought one of these in March 2021 and what a bike. Good looks, great handling and in Dynamic was so much fun. The tech was troublesome as there were no instructions but gradually I worked it out although the constant dropping of connection between the bike and my phone was annoying. I bought a dedicated phone, a used Samsung S10 and not removing it from the bike for short stops solved some of the problems, but not all. Software updates did get solve many of the issues, but just when you thought all was well, the connection stopped and I was left without maps usually at a crucial turn. The system relies on both bluetooth and wireless to work, and the App is also a dominant one, meaning it works at the expense of all the other apps on your phone, hence the dedicated phone. For the first 1000 miles all was good apart from connectivity. Then the exhaust valve went. I don't think I have come across a single review that talks about this problem, common across all the boxer engined bikes, in fact fairly common across all v twins as well. BMW customer service was mediocre with them being more concerned about protecting them selves than looking after me. I had to ride over 1000 miles with the fault because they could not sort it for 2 months, and as I was that 1000 miles from home, and they had no bikes to lend me, it was a choice of rent a flat until I could get them to sort it, or ride it. "unofficially' the manager told me I could ride home, but if something went wrong, then my warranty was void. Thanks for that. After 9 months the rear brake seized on leaving me stranded and this time I had to be recovered. BMW were very good in sorting this out, and the parts were replaced under warranty. The fault occurred due to corrosion in the rear brake pedal. Initially BMW questioned how I cared for the bike until I pointed out it was 9 months old and lived in a heated garage, and if this was not good enough they should change their marketing to say not suitable for UK roads in winter, at which the back tracking was spectacular. Finally the battery gave up despite being kept on a trickle charger. I asked my dealer for a trade in price, which at first he said he couldn't do because the bike was too new, so I left, went to Honda and bought a Goldwing. Funny how Honda could price the bike in 10 minutes. I have had four BMW's now. The first, a K1300GT the battery used to boil and the bike cut out, then my first GS came with a factory fitted oil leak which despite three services never got sorted, then my second GS had numerous problems including a rusty engine which was replaced under warranty after I threatened legal action. When I got the bike back the mechanic showed me 20 boxer engines in their yard, all rusty, all replaced under warranty for owners who had to fight BMW. I swore i would never buy another after the second GS, but then I got the RT. BMW build great bikes, but too many are 'Friday afternoon' bikes, and mediocre customer service. The usual response I get when i post questions is that my experience was isolated, but i was in contact with many owners and we all shared a variety of problems. yes there are plenty of bikes that run trouble free, and those tales reinforce the myth of BMW quality. No one wants to talk about how poor BMW quality can be, or how when things do go wrong, unless like me you get to the MD, dealers don't want to know.
@@alank9682 Great bike. Does everything well, is fun to ride, comfortable and the tech works as it should. For Android Auto, it is sensitive to the condition of the cable so I find I change the cables over for new ones every six months, then trouble free. At first it is quite thirsty but after 5k miles it is getting more economical, but will never show the economy of the RT. The RT is the better bike, the 'wing is more reliable and more comfortable, and I will take reliability over speed any day. I did a light hearted comparison between the two, here. ruclips.net/video/aEnl-2HCtoM/видео.html
I've had 14 bikes in 11 years, and have just gone back to the 1200rt after trying to recreate the magic from my first one five years ago...ranging from the ZZR1400, to a K1200GT, VFR1200DCT, FJR1300....but nothing ticks as many boxes so well as the RT
Ive had RT’s since i was 26, first one was R100RT which i had for 8yrs and went abroad several times and no probs, K1100LT after which was super, lot faster and bit top heavy and heavier on corners, toured abroad too which ate up the miles. My first R1150Rt after that, best handling bike i think out of them, brake were too good especially with the servo assist, I had a K1300GTSE after, excellent bike for handling, two up, and for speed which i loved, but i got probs with leg angle and my right knee got sore after a while. I got another R1150RT again and no probs, just does what it says on the tin. Decided to get a new bike, got myself a R1200GS adventure, and although its a fantastic riding handling bike, comfy two up, luggage storage super, but the vibration on the the throttle grip is numbing my hand, ive tried a few things but no luck, my friend who had it before me said it does vibrate a little, but i had a shot of a R1200RT too, and that was exactly the same, few mile down the road, vibration on the throttle side, Bmw said they werent aware of that problem... errr...? Ive had a shot of the R1250RT and it is totally different, no buzz or vibration, and it is quick, so probably looking to buy one in 2024.
Thank you. This is a considered and sensationally detailed and nuanced review of this complex bike and its character. Ive watched almost every review now and have purchased. The bike doesn't disappoint on the road. R1100RT-R1200RT and now the R1250RT.............owned and enjoyed them all.
Very good assessment of a very underrated machine. I brought a 2019 rt for two up touring. I also have a R1250gs which was our initial tourer. The RT just keeps growing on me. My wife won't ride on the GS now, she has been spoilt by the rt comfort. We hired a r1250 rt in Munich and rode two up through the Austrian Alps, Dolomites and Stelvio. It just absorbed the road fully loaded with our luggage. We got to give it a run down the autobarn fully loaded and it was so stable and confident at speeds over 210km/h. I agree with you, I think you are correct, the rt is just awesome. If I upgrade it will definitely be another rt! Roll on the new 1300 👍
As someone who owned BMW RS, GS (2), GSA(2) and K 1600B, the RT shines over all of them in every category on the pavement. It is the easiest to ride and dollar per dollar better value than all of the others. If my local Police Dept. trust this bike so much, so will I 😂. Nice review.
I’m putting you to the test. I have a K bike, a GSA and an S1000RR, the RT is my next bike UNLESS I buy an R18 to introduce and shutdown to the Harley and Indian dudes living on my street.
I owned an RT and used it for over 160 000 kilometers. However, I’m 70 now and the one feature I’d like on anything this large when parked on a slight downward or squeezing out of a tight garage is reverse assist. The K1600’s with reverse is great, but it’s not for me. Why BMW doesn’t offer this feature within the RT’s constellation of “packages” and accessories remains a question Honda is more than glad to answer.
I've owned many BMW's,,, The 1250 RT may possibly be my favorite. Regret trading it for the 1600GTL. Handling, fuel economy, comfort is undeniable. Don't get me wrong the big 1600 was awesome in most riding situations. But the RT has a personality all it's own. It does feel like a true luxury Sport Tourer. That's effortless to ride Your observations and review is on point in my opinion.
Test road the K1600 then the RT .. Told the sales guy half way through the RT test that its not even close and lets go back because im buying this RT right now. The 1600 was nice, but felt heavy in the turns, not nearly as flickable.. The RT was just as fast, flicked around easy and felt wonderful.. Love my RT..
Good review as always Mat. I had a 2014 RT, new at the time, and was underwhelmed, it lasted about six months. But the 1250 is a different beast. But remember, its a low riding GS underneath. I’m on my third GS, I could see myself on a RT one day….
Great review, Matt, thank you. I bought a used 2021 with every conceivable option bar the radio. I bought it at the height of BM’s shutdown/short working week in November last year when the second hand prices in Europe/UK went crazy. In 2 months, I’ve put 4000 miles on it. I didn’t go into the office for a month and a half and we had some high winds, ice and snow, so it was in the car on those days. In my 4000 miles of ownership I have realised what a great choice I made. I was seriously tempted by the GSA. My wife liked it, but the RT ended up winning having BM’s latest tech, “free panniers” and a lot of creature comforts unavailable on the GSA. Roads in the UK are sh1te and a GSA makes sense from a pothole point of view. Given that the Government have pledged £220m to repair the pothole pandemic, we should see 2 possibly 3 potholes repaired if the £22bn they spent on the failed Track and Trace app is anything to go by. I watch a few vids of people going on “tracks” around Wales. Basically, these are single track roads, and they look great fun. However, having had one hip replaced, 5 cervical vertebra re profiled and 2 discs removed and needing another hip and, two shoulders replaced, the potential for skeletal havoc kicks in. My biggest surprise was when I ventured into dynamic mode. I’ve been riding mainly in eco mode on the M1 on my commute and in eco-mode the bike is like a very strong diesel engined car. Put it into dynamic and it definitely grows a pair of serious horns. Mine has the Akrapovic on, and the soundtrack, the acceleration and the speed us only surpassed by my manic grin! Add in the fact that for at least 60% of my ownership it’s been rainy and cold, and the RT makes great sense. The ACC is a life saver on the motorway, especially on a bike with a lot of fiddly bits and screens to play with. Twice since owning it’s intervened when idiot drivers have cut in in front of me and I’ve been at the the phonebook. It’s not so good with rapid deceleration in longer distances though which is strange since it works brilliantly at short unexpected events. All in all, I love my bike, in Alpine White. My biggest wish is for some discrete blue flashing lights for the idiots on the M1 who try to stop you filtering by swerving or narrowing the gaps….I think BMW call that Option 999.
Exceptional recording work, kudos to you and your TEAM on these twisties in Spain. Thank you from Long Island NY for this extremely thorough review of this 1250 full dress tourer! (R1150RT, R1200RT) Jim
I completely agree! Interestingly when I attend our USA BMW rally there are more RTs than GSs. I have a 1250 RT, put on mild off-road Michelins, added a SW motech skid plate and Ileum crash bars, now I have a perfect gravel road bike along with its mountain road and long hauler prowess. Great review video!
You said that the shift-cam engine was launched in 2021. But they started production in Nov 2018. My 1250 RT was produced in Dec 2018, and it's a marvel for me!
I have only ever ridden one motorcycle, a beat up local production Japanese 175 which was used to transport atleast 5 passengers over mountains and hills on muddy and rocky roads. And what I have come to realize after fantasizing about owning a BMW is that: I cant even afford to dream about it and even if I were to miraculously manage to grab a hold of one, the cost of maintaining it would be astronomical (since its got so many electric doodads and whatnots) so it will probably just rot in my hands, What I can discern from the people who have ridden the tourer(RT) and enduro(RS) is that it is nothing short of Perfection, when everything works on a Beemer nothing is better...absolutely nothing tops a Beemer in its Luxurious Spirit of Adventure.
Excellent review. Beautiful video coverage and magnificent views. Thanks... very enjoyable to view and listen to. For this particular bike review, it would have been really instructive to show the mechanics of the paralever and telelever suspension mechanisms and how they isolate road imperfections in terms of touring comfort. Two suspension pivot points with the rider in the middle gives the idea of a magic carpet kind of ride quality. Your covered the engine perfectly. And the pro assist shifter in the twisties really completes the performance package experience. Gord
I’m a longtime GS owner, currently own a R1250GS. I’ve always liked the RT and really felt your review gave me a real idea how it would be to ride. Particularly with your video style-a mix of shots from on and off the bike. Thanks and well done. A new subscriber, I look forward to more of your reviews.
My first BMW was a 1979 R65, took a 20 year hiatus got a 2003 R1150 R, had a 2007 R1200 (too small) a 2009 RT, 2015 RT, 2019 RT, currently riding a 2022 triple black Rt. Love the bike, great touring bike for two up. Bit of a learning curve with all the high tech. A great bike however.
My motorcycle of choice is a sports tourer. A do it all bike that's still comfortable. As a full fat tourer the RT can fulfil the sports tourer role beautifully and even has the capacity for pilion and luggage for proper tours over just days out. Its economy also makes it a great commuter though I'd avoid routes that need lots of filtering.
Just picked up a lovely second hand RT1200, still getting used to the Telelever front end, but it's a class act, won't rip your head off like a Superduke, but it definatley isn't boring, handling is fantastic for such a barn door.
Agreed, the best bike I've owned, and I've only got the 2014 LC. Many sportsbike riders I've ridden with have certainly been embarrased by this big old tanker.
Loved your video, the road looks brilliant, similar to Southern California. I have a 15 RT, I think I want the newest version. Thanks for your video! Be Safe!
I just test rode this on a demo event today. This is the bike for me. When I get a designated tour bike, this is the one. This is the only time I’ve had a windshield that didn’t make me into a bobble head. Now, for the elephant in the room. The cost😢
+1 for the very happy owners. Most complete bike I've ever had or tested. Bar offroading, it does it all extremely well and even feels fun in the twisties. Its objective mass is belied by how light it is when riding; the weather protection is out of this world; comfort unmatched; great creature comforts too; in Dynamic mode it goes very well indeed; and of course the luggage capacity allows all sorts, even my top-rope solo climbing gear. My only 'gripe' is that it could sound nicer. I have the Akra on and in Dynamic mode, after 3000 rpm it's not bad at all, but below that and in other modes it's a sorry soundtrack. Way better than the R1200R I had in 2010, but not as pleasant as on the 1250GS imo, or better still the R9Ts. I sold my beloved Aprilia Caponord 1200 for it, and thought I would miss the superb V2. But everything else on the RT is so amazing that I'd never go back. Now, if Aprilia DID FINALLY put their V4 in a tourer, my life could suddenly become very complicated... I also tested the KTM 1290 and the Multistrada V4S. Am very very glad I settled for the RT.
Have you ever tried a GS ? I did and didn’t like it, it felt completely disconnected from the road to me (no feedback through the bars). I wonder if I might like the RT more, I have the possibility of renting one for a few days.
@@TeslasSecret Yep I had one for 2 weeks. Very good, but for road touring, nowhere near the RT imo. Didn't notice what you mention but it could be due to the BMW suspension set-up (the RT has the same), I know some people find it difficult to relate. Try the RT anyway, can't hurt.
@@denislejeune9218 Thanks for your reply. Indeed, I will try it out and update with my impressions. May I ask what kind of bike you had just before the RT ?
Fantastic review; I had a 1250 RT on loan from the dealer whilst my R1200R was in for service and front fork seals... Parts not available for some reason, so I had their demo 2022 for two weeks and it never stopped raining LOL!😂
Fantastic review! I bought my first boxer last year, R18 and they certainly have their charms but a recent stint on a 2022 RT I was left amazed at how smooth it is.
As always the best prose of any moto journo. Many thanks. I just ordered a GSA and on the basis of the sporty credentials you mention, am beginning to think the RT might have been the better choice. Oh no!
The RT and GSA are both awesome tourers. Pick the one on which you feel more comfortable. I would never say either is better - unless you have short legs!
I owned a 2014 Triumph Trophy SE. The level of weather protection was a double edged sword. Great for cold and inclement weather. The electronic suspension was amazing! The negatives were how hot I would get trying to ride in the southeastern United States in the summertime. Pretty much had to park it and ride my naked bike when it was warm out. Why am I talking about Triumph on this video? Because it was aimed directly at the RT.
Dave,...I had a 2015 Trophy which I really liked, But as you said, the Trophy was almost unbearable in the heat of the summer. I now have 2020 1250 RT which isn't too bad in the summer but still gives great weather protection. The 1250 also has much more power, better brakes and handles better than the Trophy
love your reviews, and like you always respected the Boxer. I love sport tourers and recently bought the v100 Guzzi. Almost bought the 1250RS or RT. What are your thoughts between the RS and V100?
I have owned two RT's including the latest RT1250, and ridden RS1250's a number of times and have recently bought a V100 (after a very long test ride). I love the RT it is a stunning bike, and I agree the best touring bike out there. The V100 is a different beast, the big differences, no doubt the RT is the most comfortable for long distances, the 1250 boxer is much quicker at the top end than the V100, but the V100 is lighter and feels lighter than particularly the RT (and to some extend the RS). My take is for really big miles (and particularly bad weather), the RT wins, but its extra KG does make it hard to live with at times.
takes forever(1500 meters ) for the "self cancelling," turn signals to finally turn off. By then the cars behind you think after 3 intersections later that you definitelt forgot to turn off the turn signal. Too bad there is no option to select the distance by a menu to change the distance to cancel. Also the friction point for the clutch to engage is almost after the lever is fully disengaged. The friction point should be closer to the grip, more control. Perfection in all other respects.
I have a 2021 rt and sold my 2022 dct wing yesterday. the GW has the best seating position for comfort and dct works great but in all other respects the rt is better except reliability when comparing past models. RT has 60 miles more range, hold much more luggage, radar cruise, better braking tech, better cornering and bright headlights, much better handling at all speeds, Rt has a wireless charging pad in the fairing and wireless connectivity, adaptive real time suspension, is quicker, has better ground clearance, central locking for all the luggage including the 2 fairing pockets, removable luggage, can remove the seats without tools, I'm sure i am missing other features too.
i have owned every RT model since the R1100 in 1998. I currently ride a first model R1250 RT (2018,2019??) and it is phenomenal. The only fine tuning for me is lowered footpegs and a handle bar adjustment. I have long legs, so this combo has greatly improved those 600 mile days... I've always enjoyed the "let's have lunch in another state" kind of rides. My only question is, I am wondering, is ACC worth trading my R1250RT in for a 2021 model? Liked and subscribed...
I have owned several RT's and K16's. There are things I like about both. However, if I could only have one bike it would have to be the RT. It is significantly lighter, more playful handling. The K16 is hard to beat for cranking out interstate roads, but the RT isn't far behind, and when the roads get twisty, I'd rather have the RT.
I started riding BMW R models in 1998. Since then it's been an 1100 RT, an 1150RT, a 1200RT in 2005 and 2012. Throw in a couple of K sport tourers and three GSAs. I guess you could say I'm a fan of R bikes. In fact, I just bought another R bike today. Can you guess which one??
I just wish Triumph made back a tourer like this. Motorbike world needs more competition in this segment and Triumph prooves to make exciting and technologicaly soun bikes these days.
It looks kind sporty . I rode since '76. Not a vast array of everything like our host. However early sport riding was on upright type seating. Eventually I got to lay forward sports racing bikes GSXR750R , FZR1000 & I promptly decided that was not the greatest way to travel our highways. Although 230 kph with a stuffed tank bag under your chest is like being on a massage bed. The V rod was too underpowered though a big block HD is still on my preferred list. Your words have got me listening with enthusiasm and an eye for one of these from BMW. Enough power in a motorcycle has been lost for me since there are so many cars with hp to burn . I have. Been considering a Hayabusa turbo or maybe a bike like the H1!
A cracking review; sadly I can't afford a new one at the mo', but I have my eye on one in a year or two, when they start to come onto the second hand market. I was looking at a 2017 model at around £9k, but the reviews of the ShiftCam implementation in '21 has made me hold back and save for the later model.
I’ve got one and love it. The con, side mirrors are exceedingly low to the point of not usable and I’m 5’10. Add wearing glasses, finding the mirror, focusing and you’re looking down for 2-3 seconds, not good. Added some after-market to the h bars, so all is well. The Boxer is a strange animal, it looks slow, but is very responsive and will pull for days when asked and it’s fun. Lastly, for best Tour, even though I love the BMR, the Honda Goldwing wins hands down in my opinion. They’re two different bikes with different characteristics, so hard to compare in my opinion.
Sold my 2022 goldwing dct yesterday. Love my 2021 rt I have even more. Better handling , acceleration, bigger gas tank, removable, bigger luggage, better tech, radar cruise, better instrumentation layout, cheaper-a little, than the wing. Also 2 things i cant understand. The rt adaptive cornering lights move as you lean as a motorcycle should, the wing lights corner as you turn the handlebars like a car's steering wheel. So unless you are going slow like in a parking lot the cornering lights are useless. Also, on the wing turn on the high beams and your fog lights go out, also like a car. On the rt and any motorcycle, sometimes you want all your lights on at the same time. Both great bikes alll else considered
I own a 98 and a 2020 RT, both great riding bikes. Thanks to the R engine they have a low center of gravity, and engineers gave them a short wheelbase, so despite their size and weight those things are very easy to handle, and very enjoyable on the twisties. Great bike overall. And for the record, the BMW´s R series is not about how powerful is the engine but how good their driving is.
you can. Operate either the front OR rear lever gives the same exact front and rear braking response. The BMW system is different than the typical linked braking system like you find on a FJR or any Honda product.
@@malidawgz5690 I’m very familiar with bmw. I’ve got gs, k1600 and m1000rr. Each model is slightly different and depending on drive modes they vary so you’re just full of caca.
143 nm from 1254 ccm thats alot 👌🏻 114 nm from 1 litres me sv 650 have 96 nm from 1 litres only 👌🏻 80-120 nm from litres thats normal range for n/a engine so bmw is close to max 👌🏻 thats why i like this engine 👍🏻
Today is December 20, 2023. And I am from the Philippines. I feel so disgusted with our Local BMW Dealers when I kept asking about the Model R 1250RT availability for the past Three (3) years but to no avail. They'd always give a lot of excuses that it is Not Available Here Only to offer Other Models which I Don't Even Like At All. Yet They Don't Give A Valid Reasons. What Could Be The Best For To Meet My Favored Unit, the RT Model. Please Help Me On This ? If I would Import this Unit, Do I have to get a Permission from Our Dealer or Do Own My Own Way ? Please Help ! 😭😭😭
I looked at the RT and it is a beautiful bike, but I ended up with my 2022 K1600GT instead. The RT was basically the same price, if not more, than the GT. I really did not care about the active cruise control. There are some things that I, by habit, I need to keep old school. Plus the GT is more sportier and smoother.
I had a 2017 k1600gt. Traded it on the 2021 RT. The k1600 was so top heavy and figgety on the highway with it's relatively short wheelbase. K bike has an incredible engine, but the rt is more maneuverable and all else being equal to the k bike less the radar cruise which still makes no sense that the long hall K bike doesnt have radar cruise still. Chip crisis excuse is getting old, give the k bike radar!!
Why would the R1250RT make the R1250RS "obsolete"...??? It's essentially the exact same motor, electronics, and running gear with a less massive fairing and lighter body panels. If anything, many of us prefer the smaller fairing on the RS because it actually allows more air circulation for cooling on the hot summer days we typically ride on. And the lighter weight is hardly a handicap either. I can still add BMW side and top cases for longer trips, and the bike doesn't look like an odd duck if I take them off when I don't need them. Yes, the RT is likely one of the best tourers you can buy, but the RS can do most of what the RT can do, and some things even better, and still provide more comfort and high speed confidence than most other bikes on the market...
Totally agree with you buddy ! The "lighter" configuration of the RS and the reversed fork replacing the RT's Telelever gives to the RS a better feed back on the front end and better sports qualities too ! I don't feel "old enough" to go for an RT yet and I still got something in me pushing towards something a bit more agressive and sporty, hence the RS...
Beautiful videography, and a very honest, heartfelt review. I do want to add that you need to take a bike above 14,000 ft from sea level, loaded, ride through winter and the height of summer, double, through NY City kinda stop and go traffic, and carry all you luggage for a weeks worth in it, before you call it, “the BEST touring bike”. When you do that, you realize why it is that some other biker seem to have more buyers. €20,000 isn’t a pittance, and touring isn’t a walk in the park. You need to ask a lot more of a bike in this bracket, than just one nice ride.
what bike do you speak ? No bike except the old goldwing has the same luggage capacity. Elevation makes no difference to fuel injected bikes. I live in NY and live with enough stop and go traffic on Long Island. Very few bikes with electric windshields ahve the same level of wing protection. No bike is perfect but my 2021 rt comes the closest. Ever ridden one. Sold my 2022 goldwing yesterday, it couldnt compare to the rt
Bought a 2023 full spec loaded in Japan last March. Nice bike, yes gadgets updated, but not much different from my R1200RT purchased in 2000. Good ride, thanks to the same BMW bike fundamentals: boxer engine, shaft drive, ABS and telelever & paralever suspension. If you know how to ride a motorcycle, you won't see much difference on riding. What I think is useless: Speakers. In between these 2 RTs, a K1200GT, K1300S, R1200GS, S1000RR. Problems (in Japan): 1) The map DOESN'T WORK--NOT AVAILABLE AND THERE IS NO STANDARD WAY TO PUT A PHONE HOLDER OR EVEN FIX THE PREHISTORIC SNAIL NAVIGATOR 6. 2) Larger phones Samsung S23 ULTRA or Apple PRO MAX do not fit the wireless charger compartment.
Active cruise control on a bike is a big no no, the standard cruise control ok. I still prefer the k1600. I don't think you can turn off the active control so you are stuck with it, that's what my motorade dealership told me.Just my personal preference.😊👍
If you hold the distance selector switch down the cruise control switches to older type, standard cruise control but i always use the adaptive cruise control. Works great, especially on the highway.
Hehe. I love how he thinks the bike is "enormous". Try riding an Indian Roadmaster or Harley Davidson Ultra Glide. You'll become quite familiar with the concept of an "enormous bike". :) Anyhow, great video review. I love the BMW RT's. They're a joy to ride.
Not sure about that. I've put 30K miles of 2-up touring on our RT in 3 years. I'm amazed at how many people gawk at the fully loaded RT. It gets comments everywhere we go.
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
I've been a long distance touring rider for as long as I've been riding. That's in the neighborhood of 50 years now. My first distance ride was with my Dad at 18 years of age on a 1971 Honda CB350 twin. I was a kid and didn't know any better but it got me hooked. Since then, I went through a 1978 Yamaha XS 650, a 1983 BMW R80RT, a 1993 Honda Goldwing Aspencade, a 1998 Honda ST1100A, a 2009 Harley Ultra Classic, and my current bike, a 2013 BMW R1200RT. I can definitively say, my current BMW is the absolute best touring bike I've ever owned. All the bikes I mentioned had their good and bad points but the R1200RT has the best good to bad ratio of any bike I've owned. The biggest selling point for me is weather protection. None of the other bikes I've ridden could keep the wind off of me as well as the R1200RT does. That, together with seating comfort, fuel economy and it's associated driving range, makes this bike #1 in my book. I'd love to upgrade to the new R1250RT. I'm very impressed with everything I've read about it but that's just not in the cards for now.
I couldn't agree more with you.
After my K1600gt, I could sometimes miss the softness, torque and SOUND of the inline 6.
I bought a R1250R (because weight had had my health a bit destroyed?). Enjoyed it a lot.
Now, I ride an R1250RT... and it's the best of all worlds. I can ride like a maniac, or just waft on the torque, i can enjoy the spaghetti roads of southern alps and côte d'azur, at any speed, being confortably happy. That's just the closest to perfection multi-use bike you can buy (with quite a lot of money, but re-sale value is ok).
I love my R1250RT. I almost always ride alone, without the Huge top case that makes the bike quite crosswind sensitive.
Even the active cruise control, which I thought "stupid", has conquered me. It allows me to keep my driver's licence on the highways (otherwise, I know myself, I would rather ride at 120mph with good protection.
And to conclude: not only is it the best but it is the last one.
And I still don't get why so pany people are buying the GS. Is it for a "length" contest ?
Nice review and hopefully it could mine by this a new year 2024😊
Why are people getting the GS? The only way to answer that is to ride it.
Thanks for this review. I couldn’t decide between this bike and the GSA. I live in Spain and these are my local roads. After re watching your review I went for the RT triple black. Been running it in today. Amazing bike. Amazing.
I bought an RT because years of manual work meant riding more sporty bikes hurt, lucky if I could last an hour, this meant my bike spent more time in the shed than on the road, 200 miles between MOT's.
The RT has just about replaced my car, can get a weeks shopping in those panniers, I go out for a ride and find I just spent 2 to 3 hours on the bike, even in the middle of a UK winter, only avoid riding it if its going to be icy. the handling is amazing for something that looks such a big lump, it surprised my 25 year old nephew when he followed me out for a back lane blast, and this means that between MOT's is now over 6000 miles, would be more, but I work away a lot, so don't use it to commute.
The best bike is subjective, but its the best for me at this point in my life as I can still be out riding a motorbike, something I've done for many decades and will be a very sad day when I'm no longer able to.
Last week I traded in my 2020 S1000XR and bought a 2021 RT. I was so fed up with the nervous and jerky XR that I went back to the RT. I had a 1200RT in 2015, traded it in for a K1600GT in 2017, then thought it would be a good idea to go back to basics (and less weight!) and bought an F750GS and regretted it very quickly. I didn’t really miss the K1600’s power, but the lack of refinement of the 2-cylinder 800cc coffee grinder was too much, so I soon bought the new F900XR, which was fun, but not a great improvement over the 750 and then, in 2021, moved up to a six months old S1000XR. I took it on a trip to the south of France, and although it was superb in the Alps, I missed the comfort, the low-down torque, the wind protection and luggage capacity. So now, in 2023, I’m back on an RT and I’m loving every minute and km on it. I promised myself I am going to keep this one longer than the other ones combined :)
I'm thinking of making the same exact switch. Do you miss the handling of the XR or does the RT handle well enough that you don't. I would like to hear from others that have made this switch.
I"m 55 years old and have been on a Kawasaki Concours 14 since 2009. A great bike but I want to make a switch and have been looking at the XR. I like everything about the XR but have not tested one. I'm sure I would like it but there is only so much I can learn from a test ride so I'm relying on comments like yours. I also like the RT. I'm leaning toward the RT for all the reasons you pointed out. Thanks for your input.
First fell for the RT when I had an 1100 on loan from Wollaston Motorrad on a CBT instructor course in 2001. Absolutely beautiful and exposed the weakness of the GTR1000 which was my own bike at the time. I had seen the future, and it came without back pain. The A-road from Daventry to Banbury in particular was an absolute joy on this bike. To date for many reasons I have not yet been able to own one. Next time hopefully.
I couldn't agree with you more! I bought an RT exactly like the one you just rode for a number of reasons. First of all, like you said, it handles like a beast which is super important to me as I ride in the mountains every weekend. It takes me about 45 minutes to get there, so, on the freeway, I just raise the windscreen, put on the cruise control and ride in complete comfort. Once I get there, I put the 25.9 degree of rake and 4.6" trail to work and the RT rolls into the turn and holds its line beautifully! I ride with the panniers off to save 26 lbs and make it easier to filter. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, under full throttle, this bike will blur your vision and push your brain back against the inside of your skull. 0 - 60 in about 3.2 seconds and gets to 100 mph in a flash. The perfect all rounder in my opinion!
agreed what a bike!
I test road a 1250 RT last week in the Santa Monica Mountains. Absolutely superb, how easily this bike flicks from side to side, it's ability to choose do you want the inside, middle or outside of the lane you're on, in the twisties, with so minor a change in input. The bike just seems to turn so intuititively. It's everything my 2023 1250 GS is, but with more ease, a little bit more firm of a ride on bumpy roads, and much lower center of gravity. The bike I rode had maybe 1.5 gallons of fuel in the tank when I was handed the keyfob, so that may have some effect. The Michelin Road 6's on this bike are just amazing. I'd like to do a test ride some time with some Dunlop RoadSmart 4's on the rims, some time. The telelever front suspension on this bike, like my 1250 GS, is in a league all of it's own, with zero fork dive when you get on the front brakes hard, as in an emergency stop. It's just incredible at not upsetting your center of gravity balance under severe panic braking conditions.
Good review, for me you're possibly the best motorcycle journalist on RUclips. I agree with most of your points. The flat twin has never inspired like a great V twin (eg Ducati, Aprilia, Suzuki, KTM) but its low centre of gravity gives any bike a wonderful gyroscopic quality which upright cylinder bikes just cannot match. I've just traded my 2012 R1200R for a 2019 1250RT and have yet to ride it but I always thought variable valve timing would complete the development of the boxer engine. Competing with cars on quiet roads my 1200 was boss up to 100 - 120 but after that it got a bit breathy. The shiftcam addresses this and that's why I've bought one. When you're not pressing on it's a pleasure to cruise the torque wave much as you would with a powerful diesel car. The 1250 has to be the best touring bike in the world because most other manufacturers have given up! Kawasaki seems to have abandoned the Concourse (GTR) which is criminal, likewise it looks like the last-chance saloon for Yamaha's FJR (both these engines are challenged by new pollution regs but surely their manufacturers have the resources to design their way around them?). That leaves us with the Honda Goldwing (beautiful armchair but too heavy for most) and the Harley/Indian tourers which are all heavy and rather compromised in the handling department. Credit to BMW for sticking with the project and developing the technology to keep the RT on top.
After buying an RT, later trading it for a K1600GT, and buying a couple other bikes. And even riding a few others, I've realized the RT is still my favorite bike. I think I may have to buy one again.
😂👍
A good review as ever. I bought one of these in March 2021 and what a bike. Good looks, great handling and in Dynamic was so much fun. The tech was troublesome as there were no instructions but gradually I worked it out although the constant dropping of connection between the bike and my phone was annoying. I bought a dedicated phone, a used Samsung S10 and not removing it from the bike for short stops solved some of the problems, but not all. Software updates did get solve many of the issues, but just when you thought all was well, the connection stopped and I was left without maps usually at a crucial turn. The system relies on both bluetooth and wireless to work, and the App is also a dominant one, meaning it works at the expense of all the other apps on your phone, hence the dedicated phone. For the first 1000 miles all was good apart from connectivity.
Then the exhaust valve went. I don't think I have come across a single review that talks about this problem, common across all the boxer engined bikes, in fact fairly common across all v twins as well. BMW customer service was mediocre with them being more concerned about protecting them selves than looking after me. I had to ride over 1000 miles with the fault because they could not sort it for 2 months, and as I was that 1000 miles from home, and they had no bikes to lend me, it was a choice of rent a flat until I could get them to sort it, or ride it. "unofficially' the manager told me I could ride home, but if something went wrong, then my warranty was void. Thanks for that.
After 9 months the rear brake seized on leaving me stranded and this time I had to be recovered. BMW were very good in sorting this out, and the parts were replaced under warranty. The fault occurred due to corrosion in the rear brake pedal. Initially BMW questioned how I cared for the bike until I pointed out it was 9 months old and lived in a heated garage, and if this was not good enough they should change their marketing to say not suitable for UK roads in winter, at which the back tracking was spectacular.
Finally the battery gave up despite being kept on a trickle charger. I asked my dealer for a trade in price, which at first he said he couldn't do because the bike was too new, so I left, went to Honda and bought a Goldwing. Funny how Honda could price the bike in 10 minutes.
I have had four BMW's now. The first, a K1300GT the battery used to boil and the bike cut out, then my first GS came with a factory fitted oil leak which despite three services never got sorted, then my second GS had numerous problems including a rusty engine which was replaced under warranty after I threatened legal action. When I got the bike back the mechanic showed me 20 boxer engines in their yard, all rusty, all replaced under warranty for owners who had to fight BMW. I swore i would never buy another after the second GS, but then I got the RT. BMW build great bikes, but too many are 'Friday afternoon' bikes, and mediocre customer service.
The usual response I get when i post questions is that my experience was isolated, but i was in contact with many owners and we all shared a variety of problems. yes there are plenty of bikes that run trouble free, and those tales reinforce the myth of BMW quality. No one wants to talk about how poor BMW quality can be, or how when things do go wrong, unless like me you get to the MD, dealers don't want to know.
What are your thoughts on the gold wing?
@@alank9682 Great bike. Does everything well, is fun to ride, comfortable and the tech works as it should. For Android Auto, it is sensitive to the condition of the cable so I find I change the cables over for new ones every six months, then trouble free. At first it is quite thirsty but after 5k miles it is getting more economical, but will never show the economy of the RT. The RT is the better bike, the 'wing is more reliable and more comfortable, and I will take reliability over speed any day. I did a light hearted comparison between the two, here. ruclips.net/video/aEnl-2HCtoM/видео.html
I really want a new RT ,but horror stories like this seriously make me wonder ....
I've had 14 bikes in 11 years, and have just gone back to the 1200rt after trying to recreate the magic from my first one five years ago...ranging from the ZZR1400, to a K1200GT, VFR1200DCT, FJR1300....but nothing ticks as many boxes so well as the RT
@mojo8746 too wide for the amount of filtering i do
@@markgr1nyer Cannot go wrong with either :D Ride safe and continue riding!
@@mojo8746 goldwing, doesn’t come close to the arts handling.
@mojo8746 i disagree, and if done correctly, i believe it is safer and reduces conjestion but each to their own
@@mojo8746 boo hoo, go drive a car.
Ive had RT’s since i was 26, first one was R100RT which i had for 8yrs and went abroad several times and no probs, K1100LT after which was super, lot faster and bit top heavy and heavier on corners, toured abroad too which ate up the miles. My first R1150Rt after that, best handling bike i think out of them, brake were too good especially with the servo assist, I had a K1300GTSE after, excellent bike for handling, two up, and for speed which i loved, but i got probs with leg angle and my right knee got sore after a while. I got another R1150RT again and no probs, just does what it says on the tin. Decided to get a new bike, got myself a R1200GS adventure, and although its a fantastic riding handling bike, comfy two up, luggage storage super, but the vibration on the the throttle grip is numbing my hand, ive tried a few things but no luck, my friend who had it before me said it does vibrate a little, but i had a shot of a R1200RT too, and that was exactly the same, few mile down the road, vibration on the throttle side, Bmw said they werent aware of that problem... errr...? Ive had a shot of the R1250RT and it is totally different, no buzz or vibration, and it is quick, so probably looking to buy one in 2024.
Thank you. This is a considered and sensationally detailed and nuanced review of this complex bike and its character. Ive watched almost every review now and have purchased. The bike doesn't disappoint on the road. R1100RT-R1200RT and now the R1250RT.............owned and enjoyed them all.
I bought a 2022 R1250RT...best bike I've ever owned. Awesome review, with some of the best video I've seen in any channel. Well done, and thank you.
One of the best reviews of the R1250RT, hands down. You made want to get it. Thank you 🙏
Very good assessment of a very underrated machine. I brought a 2019 rt for two up touring. I also have a R1250gs which was our initial tourer. The RT just keeps growing on me. My wife won't ride on the GS now, she has been spoilt by the rt comfort. We hired a r1250 rt in Munich and rode two up through the Austrian Alps, Dolomites and Stelvio. It just absorbed the road fully loaded with our luggage. We got to give it a run down the autobarn fully loaded and it was so stable and confident at speeds over 210km/h. I agree with you, I think you are correct, the rt is just awesome. If I upgrade it will definitely be another rt! Roll on the new 1300 👍
I’ve owned two 1150’s in the past. Many fond memories of both.
As someone who owned BMW RS, GS (2), GSA(2) and K 1600B, the RT shines over all of them in every category on the pavement. It is the easiest to ride and dollar per dollar better value than all of the others. If my local Police Dept. trust this bike so much, so will I 😂. Nice review.
And...do you own one yet ? (Said the K1200R owner...)
@@quidestnunc9238 Yes, I have a the MY22.
I’m putting you to the test. I have a K bike, a GSA and an S1000RR, the RT is my next bike UNLESS I buy an R18 to introduce and shutdown to the Harley and Indian dudes living on my street.
@@esmiley3 I would definitely take extended test rides with the RT and the R18. Good luck.
How stable it is at higher speed ? I heard that the 1600 wasn't great at all ..
I owned an RT and used it for over 160 000 kilometers. However, I’m 70 now and the one feature I’d like on anything this large when parked on a slight downward or squeezing out of a tight garage is reverse assist. The K1600’s with reverse is great, but it’s not for me. Why BMW doesn’t offer this feature within the RT’s constellation of “packages” and accessories remains a question Honda is more than glad to answer.
Well the RT doesn't have reverse and the K1600 doesn't have ACC. So all is fair.
I've owned many BMW's,,, The 1250 RT may possibly be my favorite. Regret trading it for the 1600GTL.
Handling, fuel economy, comfort is undeniable. Don't get me wrong the big 1600 was awesome in most riding situations. But the RT has a personality all it's own. It does feel like a true luxury Sport Tourer. That's effortless to ride
Your observations and review is on point in my opinion.
Test road the K1600 then the RT .. Told the sales guy half way through the RT test that its not even close and lets go back because im buying this RT right now. The 1600 was nice, but felt heavy in the turns, not nearly as flickable.. The RT was just as fast, flicked around easy and felt wonderful.. Love my RT..
@@Chris-in1je Motorbike choice is incredibly subjective.
At the end of the day, the bike that Feels Right,, is most important.
Congrats on the Moto.
Nice review... you just summed up all the reasons I bought an RT. 👍🏻
Good review as always Mat. I had a 2014 RT, new at the time, and was underwhelmed, it lasted about six months. But the 1250 is a different beast. But remember, its a low riding GS underneath. I’m on my third GS, I could see myself on a RT one day….
Great review, Matt, thank you. I bought a used 2021 with every conceivable option bar the radio. I bought it at the height of BM’s shutdown/short working week in November last year when the second hand prices in Europe/UK went crazy. In 2 months, I’ve put 4000 miles on it. I didn’t go into the office for a month and a half and we had some high winds, ice and snow, so it was in the car on those days.
In my 4000 miles of ownership I have realised what a great choice I made. I was seriously tempted by the GSA. My wife liked it, but the RT ended up winning having BM’s latest tech, “free panniers” and a lot of creature comforts unavailable on the GSA. Roads in the UK are sh1te and a GSA makes sense from a pothole point of view. Given that the Government have pledged £220m to repair the pothole pandemic, we should see 2 possibly 3 potholes repaired if the £22bn they spent on the failed Track and Trace app is anything to go by. I watch a few vids of people going on “tracks” around Wales. Basically, these are single track roads, and they look great fun. However, having had one hip replaced, 5 cervical vertebra re profiled and 2 discs removed and needing another hip and, two shoulders replaced, the potential for skeletal havoc kicks in.
My biggest surprise was when I ventured into dynamic mode. I’ve been riding mainly in eco mode on the M1 on my commute and in eco-mode the bike is like a very strong diesel engined car. Put it into dynamic and it definitely grows a pair of serious horns. Mine has the Akrapovic on, and the soundtrack, the acceleration and the speed us only surpassed by my manic grin! Add in the fact that for at least 60% of my ownership it’s been rainy and cold, and the RT makes great sense. The ACC is a life saver on the motorway, especially on a bike with a lot of fiddly bits and screens to play with. Twice since owning it’s intervened when idiot drivers have cut in in front of me and I’ve been at the the phonebook. It’s not so good with rapid deceleration in longer distances though which is strange since it works brilliantly at short unexpected events.
All in all, I love my bike, in Alpine White. My biggest wish is for some discrete blue flashing lights for the idiots on the M1 who try to stop you filtering by swerving or narrowing the gaps….I think BMW call that Option 999.
Great review as always. The RT could easily earn a place in my garage.
Best reviews on the Internet are done by Mat. Thank you for all you do.
Exceptional recording work, kudos to you and your TEAM on these twisties in Spain. Thank you from Long Island NY for this extremely thorough review of this 1250 full dress tourer! (R1150RT, R1200RT) Jim
I completely agree! Interestingly when I attend our USA BMW rally there are more RTs than GSs. I have a 1250 RT, put on mild off-road Michelins, added a SW motech skid plate and Ileum crash bars, now I have a perfect gravel road bike along with its mountain road and long hauler prowess. Great review video!
Wow! Was not expecting the closing line!!
You said that the shift-cam engine was launched in 2021. But they started production in Nov 2018. My 1250 RT was produced in Dec 2018, and it's a marvel for me!
Great review. I've owned three of the previous RTs. But the new model is absolutely staggeringly good at everything.
I have only ever ridden one motorcycle, a beat up local production Japanese 175 which was used to transport atleast 5 passengers over mountains and hills on muddy and rocky roads. And what I have come to realize after fantasizing about owning a BMW is that: I cant even afford to dream about it and even if I were to miraculously manage to grab a hold of one, the cost of maintaining it would be astronomical (since its got so many electric doodads and whatnots) so it will probably just rot in my hands, What I can discern from the people who have ridden the tourer(RT) and enduro(RS) is that it is nothing short of Perfection, when everything works on a Beemer nothing is better...absolutely nothing tops a Beemer in its Luxurious Spirit of Adventure.
This is the only bike that I have that I don’t consider to sell, only if BMW upgrades the model, substantially! Good Review 👌
Excellent review. Beautiful video coverage and magnificent views. Thanks... very enjoyable to view and listen to.
For this particular bike review, it would have been really instructive to show the mechanics of the paralever and telelever suspension mechanisms and how they isolate road imperfections in terms of touring comfort.
Two suspension pivot points with the rider in the middle gives the idea of a magic carpet kind of ride quality.
Your covered the engine perfectly. And the pro assist shifter in the twisties really completes the performance package experience.
Gord
I’m a longtime GS owner, currently own a R1250GS. I’ve always liked the RT and really felt your review gave me a real idea how it would be to ride. Particularly with your video style-a mix of shots from on and off the bike. Thanks and well done. A new subscriber, I look forward to more of your reviews.
My first BMW was a 1979 R65, took a 20 year hiatus got a 2003 R1150 R, had a 2007 R1200 (too small) a 2009 RT, 2015 RT, 2019 RT, currently riding a 2022 triple black Rt. Love the bike, great touring bike for two up. Bit of a learning curve with all the high tech. A great bike however.
I 100% adree with you BMW R1250RT LC or AC bikes are superb bike, Greetings from Malaysia
My motorcycle of choice is a sports tourer. A do it all bike that's still comfortable. As a full fat tourer the RT can fulfil the sports tourer role beautifully and even has the capacity for pilion and luggage for proper tours over just days out. Its economy also makes it a great commuter though I'd avoid routes that need lots of filtering.
Have one (full option) since January and so far so good. No issues and the connectivity + connected ride app works well (A52S Android).
After clicking. On your Video it has given me great insight. I have never even thought to consider this particular model thanks.
Just picked up a lovely second hand RT1200, still getting used to the Telelever front end, but it's a class act, won't rip your head off like a Superduke, but it definatley isn't boring, handling is fantastic for such a barn door.
Agreed, the best bike I've owned, and I've only got the 2014 LC. Many sportsbike riders I've ridden with have certainly been embarrased by this big old tanker.
LOL...
I have tried the st1100&1300 and my current r1200rt puts them to shame. I LOVE m’y RT.
Loved your video, the road looks brilliant, similar to Southern California. I have a 15 RT, I think I want the newest version. Thanks for your video! Be Safe!
I just test rode this on a demo event today. This is the bike for me. When I get a designated tour bike, this is the one. This is the only time I’ve had a windshield that didn’t make me into a bobble head. Now, for the elephant in the room. The cost😢
+1 for the very happy owners. Most complete bike I've ever had or tested. Bar offroading, it does it all extremely well and even feels fun in the twisties. Its objective mass is belied by how light it is when riding; the weather protection is out of this world; comfort unmatched; great creature comforts too; in Dynamic mode it goes very well indeed; and of course the luggage capacity allows all sorts, even my top-rope solo climbing gear.
My only 'gripe' is that it could sound nicer. I have the Akra on and in Dynamic mode, after 3000 rpm it's not bad at all, but below that and in other modes it's a sorry soundtrack. Way better than the R1200R I had in 2010, but not as pleasant as on the 1250GS imo, or better still the R9Ts.
I sold my beloved Aprilia Caponord 1200 for it, and thought I would miss the superb V2. But everything else on the RT is so amazing that I'd never go back. Now, if Aprilia DID FINALLY put their V4 in a tourer, my life could suddenly become very complicated...
I also tested the KTM 1290 and the Multistrada V4S. Am very very glad I settled for the RT.
Have you ever tried a GS ? I did and didn’t like it, it felt completely disconnected from the road to me (no feedback through the bars). I wonder if I might like the RT more, I have the possibility of renting one for a few days.
@@TeslasSecret Yep I had one for 2 weeks. Very good, but for road touring, nowhere near the RT imo. Didn't notice what you mention but it could be due to the BMW suspension set-up (the RT has the same), I know some people find it difficult to relate. Try the RT anyway, can't hurt.
@@denislejeune9218 Thanks for your reply. Indeed, I will try it out and update with my impressions. May I ask what kind of bike you had just before the RT ?
@@TeslasSecret Aprilia Caponord 1200 and MT10.
@@denislejeune9218 Sorry, I somehow missed the paragraph about the Caponord. Thanks your reply again, happy riding.
I’m on my forth RT, they aren’t the best. But they are very, very good at everything.
I would like to know which are the best..or better than this one?
I really want one, I'm researching to death.
I've never ridden a bike this big, can it filter through traffic?
@@georgel3657 easy to filter once you get used to it. If the mirrors go through then the bike will. Very stable at slow speed
Fantastic review; I had a 1250 RT on loan from the dealer whilst my R1200R was in for service and front fork seals... Parts not available for some reason, so I had their demo 2022 for two weeks and it never stopped raining LOL!😂
Fantastic review! I bought my first boxer last year, R18 and they certainly have their charms but a recent stint on a 2022 RT I was left amazed at how smooth it is.
I always take the RT loaner when I’m in for service but at 6’3” the pegs are too high for a forever love. I’m sticking with the GSA.
Brilliant and enjoyable review Mat
As always the best prose of any moto journo. Many thanks. I just ordered a GSA and on the basis of the sporty credentials you mention, am beginning to think the RT might have been the better choice. Oh no!
The RT and GSA are both awesome tourers. Pick the one on which you feel more comfortable. I would never say either is better - unless you have short legs!
great video cheers. it's definitely on my radar. great looking riding area, where was that? and which trousers are those you're wearing?
Parque Nacional de Cabaneros, Espana
I owned a 2014 Triumph Trophy SE. The level of weather protection was a double edged sword. Great for cold and inclement weather. The electronic suspension was amazing! The negatives were how hot I would get trying to ride in the southeastern United States in the summertime. Pretty much had to park it and ride my naked bike when it was warm out. Why am I talking about Triumph on this video? Because it was aimed directly at the RT.
Dave,...I had a 2015 Trophy which I really liked, But as you said, the Trophy was almost unbearable in the heat of the summer. I now have 2020 1250 RT which isn't too bad in the summer but still gives great weather protection. The 1250 also has much more power, better brakes and handles better than the Trophy
ny only concern is the foot peg position and cramping. used to comfy floor boards of a Harley Street Glide...
love your reviews, and like you always respected the Boxer. I love sport tourers and recently bought the v100 Guzzi. Almost bought the 1250RS or RT. What are your thoughts between the RS and V100?
I have owned two RT's including the latest RT1250, and ridden RS1250's a number of times and have recently bought a V100 (after a very long test ride). I love the RT it is a stunning bike, and I agree the best touring bike out there. The V100 is a different beast, the big differences, no doubt the RT is the most comfortable for long distances, the 1250 boxer is much quicker at the top end than the V100, but the V100 is lighter and feels lighter than particularly the RT (and to some extend the RS). My take is for really big miles (and particularly bad weather), the RT wins, but its extra KG does make it hard to live with at times.
takes forever(1500 meters ) for the "self cancelling," turn signals to finally turn off. By then the cars behind you think after 3 intersections later that you definitelt forgot to turn off the turn signal. Too bad there is no option to select the distance by a menu to change the distance to cancel. Also the friction point for the clutch to engage is almost after the lever is fully disengaged. The friction point should be closer to the grip, more control. Perfection in all other respects.
What do you make of the current Gold Wing in comparison Matt?
The RT could replace two bikes in your garage ;-)
I have a 2021 rt and sold my 2022 dct wing yesterday. the GW has the best seating position for comfort and dct works great but in all other respects the rt is better except reliability when comparing past models. RT has 60 miles more range, hold much more luggage, radar cruise, better braking tech, better cornering and bright headlights, much better handling at all speeds, Rt has a wireless charging pad in the fairing and wireless connectivity, adaptive real time suspension,
is quicker, has better ground clearance, central locking for all the luggage including the 2 fairing pockets, removable luggage, can remove the seats without tools, I'm sure i am missing other features too.
Great in-depth review!
My next bike. Thank you for your excellent presentation.
Where was the video filmed? Those roads look amazing. 😊
Is Skip the 2013 hex model which was the best one they were made
I have one Matt,as you say it’s brilliant!
A great, informative, critical, yet unbiased review as always. Thanks. Now, I just need to recall the password for my Swiss bank account!
i have owned every RT model since the R1100 in 1998. I currently ride a first model R1250 RT (2018,2019??) and it is phenomenal. The only fine tuning for me is lowered footpegs and a handle bar adjustment. I have long legs, so this combo has greatly improved those 600 mile days... I've always enjoyed the "let's have lunch in another state" kind of rides. My only question is, I am wondering, is ACC worth trading my R1250RT in for a 2021 model? Liked and subscribed...
I have owned several RT's and K16's. There are things I like about both. However, if I could only have one bike it would have to be the RT. It is significantly lighter, more playful handling. The K16 is hard to beat for cranking out interstate roads, but the RT isn't far behind, and when the roads get twisty, I'd rather have the RT.
I started riding BMW R models in 1998. Since then it's been an 1100 RT, an 1150RT, a 1200RT in 2005 and 2012. Throw in a couple of K sport tourers and three GSAs. I guess you could say I'm a fan of R bikes. In fact, I just bought another R bike today. Can you guess which one??
Cool bike.
I just wish Triumph made back a tourer like this. Motorbike world needs more competition in this segment and Triumph prooves to make exciting and technologicaly soun bikes these days.
It is excellent except the seat to foot peg distance is a bit short for me for those long riding days.
Agree, a one inch lowering kit completely solves it!
seat at its highest position i guess?
It looks kind sporty . I rode since '76. Not a vast array of everything like our host. However early sport riding was on upright type seating. Eventually I got to lay forward sports racing bikes GSXR750R , FZR1000 & I promptly decided that was not the greatest way to travel our highways. Although 230 kph with a stuffed tank bag under your chest is like being on a massage bed. The V rod was too underpowered though a big block HD is still on my preferred list. Your words have got me listening with enthusiasm and an eye for one of these from BMW. Enough power in a motorcycle has been lost for me since there are so many cars with hp to burn . I have. Been considering a Hayabusa turbo or maybe a bike like the H1!
A cracking review; sadly I can't afford a new one at the mo', but I have my eye on one in a year or two, when they start to come onto the second hand market. I was looking at a 2017 model at around £9k, but the reviews of the ShiftCam implementation in '21 has made me hold back and save for the later model.
I’ve got one and love it. The con, side mirrors are exceedingly low to the point of not usable and I’m 5’10. Add wearing glasses, finding the mirror, focusing and you’re looking down for 2-3 seconds, not good. Added some after-market to the h bars, so all is well. The Boxer is a strange animal, it looks slow, but is very responsive and will pull for days when asked and it’s fun. Lastly, for best Tour, even though I love the BMR, the Honda Goldwing wins hands down in my opinion. They’re two different bikes with different characteristics, so hard to compare in my opinion.
Sold my 2022 goldwing dct yesterday. Love my 2021 rt I have even more. Better handling , acceleration, bigger gas tank, removable, bigger luggage, better tech, radar cruise, better instrumentation layout, cheaper-a little, than the wing. Also 2 things i cant understand. The rt adaptive cornering lights move as you lean as a motorcycle should, the wing lights corner as you turn the handlebars like a car's steering wheel. So unless you are going slow like in a parking lot the cornering lights are useless. Also, on the wing turn on the high beams and your fog lights go out, also like a car. On the rt and any motorcycle, sometimes you want all your lights on at the same time. Both great bikes alll else considered
I own a 98 and a 2020 RT, both great riding bikes. Thanks to the R engine they have a low center of gravity, and engineers gave them a short wheelbase, so despite their size and weight those things are very easy to handle, and very enjoyable on the twisties. Great bike overall.
And for the record, the BMW´s R series is not about how powerful is the engine but how good their driving is.
Great video. By the way, what is the mark of your bike jacket. Looks great. 👍
Great content love it, Would you pick this bike over the K1600?
As a GSA owner of many years, I must capitulate that the times I have toured long distances one and two up on an RT, it certainly ticks all the boxes
Couldn't help, but notice that you had blurred out the speedo on every shot. Why?
What bike w a linked system are you comparing it to? And why not adapt and just use the front break to get the same effect since the are linked?
you can. Operate either the front OR rear lever gives the same exact front and rear braking response. The BMW system is different than the typical linked braking system like you find on a FJR or any Honda product.
@@malidawgz5690 I’m very familiar with bmw. I’ve got gs, k1600 and m1000rr. Each model is slightly different and depending on drive modes they vary so you’re just full of caca.
I'm partial to the GS for my style of riding and where I like to ride, BUT I do want to test ride an RT... although I doubt I'll ever own one... lol
143 nm from 1254 ccm thats alot 👌🏻 114 nm from 1 litres me sv 650 have 96 nm from 1 litres only 👌🏻 80-120 nm from litres thats normal range for n/a engine so bmw is close to max 👌🏻 thats why i like this engine 👍🏻
Would you choose this over a traditional touring bike such as the Indian Pursuit Darkhorse?
I still like the ride of my R1250GS Adventure. The large tank gives me touring range.
Ah, but versus the GS? That seems to sell many times the rate of the RT, or is it just the RT's always overlooked?
I've owned 2 GS and now the RT ....I favour the RT. I think it is overlooked ...unless you test ride it
Great video I like your boots... Info, please
It's a great bike.I just wish they made a base model available to order that isn't so tech laden.
Today is December 20, 2023. And I am
from the Philippines.
I feel so disgusted with our Local BMW
Dealers when I kept asking about the
Model R 1250RT availability for the past
Three (3) years but to no avail. They'd
always give a lot of excuses that it is
Not Available Here Only to offer Other
Models which I Don't Even Like At All.
Yet They Don't Give A Valid Reasons.
What Could Be The Best For To Meet
My Favored Unit, the RT Model. Please
Help Me On This ? If I would Import
this Unit, Do I have to get a Permission
from Our Dealer or Do Own My Own Way ? Please Help ! 😭😭😭
I looked at the RT and it is a beautiful bike, but I ended up with my 2022 K1600GT instead. The RT was basically the same price, if not more, than the GT. I really did not care about the active cruise control. There are some things that I, by habit, I need to keep old school. Plus the GT is more sportier and smoother.
I had a 2017 k1600gt. Traded it on the 2021 RT. The k1600 was so top heavy and figgety on the highway with it's relatively short wheelbase. K bike has an incredible engine, but the rt is more maneuverable and all else being equal to the k bike less the radar cruise which still makes no sense that the long hall K bike doesnt have radar cruise still. Chip crisis excuse is getting old, give the k bike radar!!
Interesting, how would you compare it to its bigger brother the K1600GT?
The K1600GT is 141lbs heavier for a start.
Compact bike with sporty ergos, probably great if you're not north or 6'.
I trust BMW Quality ❤️👍❤️
Best use for touring in some places, I suppose not in most places.
Why would the R1250RT make the R1250RS "obsolete"...??? It's essentially the exact same motor, electronics, and running gear with a less massive fairing and lighter body panels.
If anything, many of us prefer the smaller fairing on the RS because it actually allows more air circulation for cooling on the hot summer days we typically ride on. And the lighter weight is hardly a handicap either. I can still add BMW side and top cases for longer trips, and the bike doesn't look like an odd duck if I take them off when I don't need them.
Yes, the RT is likely one of the best tourers you can buy, but the RS can do most of what the RT can do, and some things even better, and still provide more comfort and high speed confidence than most other bikes on the market...
Totally agree with you buddy !
The "lighter" configuration of the RS and the reversed fork replacing the RT's Telelever gives to the RS a better feed back on the front end and better sports qualities too !
I don't feel "old enough" to go for an RT yet and I still got something in me pushing towards something a bit more agressive and sporty, hence the RS...
I leave the lugage off my rt except when i go on long trip. RT has a few more electronic aids
Beautiful videography, and a very honest, heartfelt review. I do want to add that you need to take a bike above 14,000 ft from sea level, loaded, ride through winter and the height of summer, double, through NY City kinda stop and go traffic, and carry all you luggage for a weeks worth in it, before you call it, “the BEST touring bike”. When you do that, you realize why it is that some other biker seem to have more buyers. €20,000 isn’t a pittance, and touring isn’t a walk in the park. You need to ask a lot more of a bike in this bracket, than just one nice ride.
what bike do you speak ? No bike except the old goldwing has the same luggage capacity. Elevation makes no difference to fuel injected bikes. I live in NY and live with enough stop and go traffic on Long Island. Very few bikes with electric windshields ahve the same level of wing protection. No bike is perfect but my 2021 rt comes the closest. Ever ridden one. Sold my 2022 goldwing yesterday, it couldnt compare to the rt
They are great great bikes , good choice if you don’t care about how it looks.
I never liked how the cylinder heads stick out on the fairing less models but the bodyworks helps the heads blend in quite well.
I want one! Must be an age thing…
Bought a 2023 full spec loaded in Japan last March. Nice bike, yes gadgets updated, but not much different from my R1200RT purchased in 2000. Good ride, thanks to the same BMW bike fundamentals: boxer engine, shaft drive, ABS and telelever & paralever suspension. If you know how to ride a motorcycle, you won't see much difference on riding.
What I think is useless: Speakers.
In between these 2 RTs, a K1200GT, K1300S, R1200GS, S1000RR.
Problems (in Japan):
1) The map DOESN'T WORK--NOT AVAILABLE AND THERE IS NO STANDARD WAY TO PUT A PHONE HOLDER OR EVEN FIX THE PREHISTORIC SNAIL NAVIGATOR 6.
2) Larger phones Samsung S23 ULTRA or Apple PRO MAX do not fit the wireless charger compartment.
Active cruise control on a bike is a big no no, the standard cruise control ok. I still prefer the k1600. I don't think you can turn off the active control so you are stuck with it, that's what my motorade dealership told me.Just my personal preference.😊👍
If you hold the distance selector switch down the cruise control switches to older type, standard cruise control but i always use the adaptive cruise control. Works great, especially on the highway.
@@malidawgz5690 👍
Hehe. I love how he thinks the bike is "enormous". Try riding an Indian Roadmaster or Harley Davidson Ultra Glide. You'll become quite familiar with the concept of an "enormous bike". :) Anyhow, great video review. I love the BMW RT's. They're a joy to ride.
The 1250 RS just looks one hundred times better than the RT which look big and clunky
There is a high seat available to help.
Not sure about that. I've put 30K miles of 2-up touring on our RT in 3 years. I'm amazed at how many people gawk at the fully loaded RT. It gets comments everywhere we go.