I took delivery on a 2019 1250 in December. This is my 4th RT I’ve owned. Previous models were a 2009,2010, and a 2015. I’ve ridden thousands of trouble free miles on all my RTs. This bike fits me perfectly. However I could do without the radio, the sound of the motor is music to my ears. The smoothness of the transmission has been vastly improved since the 2015 model. I ride two up and frequently have to verify that’s she’s on the passenger seat. Fortunately for me she’s only about 100 lbs!
From a 2018 RT Owner - Best part? Comfort and Convenience, followed closely by Confidence Inspiring Handling. Power? I only have 1200 cc’s but it’s more than enough power for any situation. GS? Considered it but no. If I want to go off road, I would get a much lighter 250 - 400cc bike. K1600? Great for touring but much too heavy for normal every day use around town. IMHO. Nice video. Thanks!
@@morningbetterlast mbl, I agree totally. The GS is much lighter than the RT. So easier to maneuver off-road but for me, it is still much too heavy a bike for off-road. If going off-road, I would prefer to have a light bike with less power that I could handle better with my level of rider skills. As for comfort, again I agree with you. I like my comfort and I also like the conveniences on the RT like the central locking system, electric windshield, cruise control, heated grips, heated seats, hill start control, ESA, Navigator 6, top case and drive modes. RT is not a bike for everyone but it is the right one for me. Cheers. 🥂
I'm 6-2 and 71 years young. I am pretty cramped up as I "unfold" myself after a ride....Just picked mine up yesterday, and cannot wait to munch some serious miles (This is my 4th RT, and at 342K miles of riding, I'm eagerly awaiting to sample the tech changes since my last RT in 2012. Good video and audio too!
My only problem with this bike is that it would force me to sell my absolutely cherished R1150RT, which is like that perfect pair of aged blue jeans that couldn't fit better. Fuel mileage is superb, as is comfort. Storage is ample, and the thing is just insanely comfortable (I'm 6'1") with my Bill Mayer seat. In the mountains we sometimes go into full-on race mode, and the RT is always front runner, even though my buddies ride sport bikes. Not that those bikes under a pro's piloting wouldn't win, but I can get 98/100ths out of the RT, whereas if a layman was to try that on a Ninja ZX10, you might eat some tarmac. Man, I've gone to half the states in the USA on my RT. Couldn't love it more.
I have a 2018 S1000XR which I love but on a long trip this weekend where it got extremely windy and I was wanting something with more protection. How does the RT do on the windiest days?
I had a 2012 R1200R and loved that bike. I'm really surprised BMW didn't go LED headlights. I have them on my 2016 FJR1300 and they make a BIG difference.
I'm struggling between keeping my FJR or getting this 1250 RT. Tough call, because the FJR is about the best bang for the buck, but the BMW is so freaking sweet !
I don’t understand how the quantity of BMW touring models (and I include K, GS and RS) don’t collapse under the weight of their own success. They’re all so good I can’t decide; almost makes me want to buy a Goldwing.
Great job Roman! I have the last air/oil cooler R1200RT, the 2013! It has been mostly trouble free for 46k miles. I am 6'3 and also find the seating position restrictive. On long rides my almost 60 year old body starts to cramp up. But other than that it is the most well rounded bike I have owned:)
Norm K. Good tip. I am 6.2. Ride the 02 1150RT. Very confortable in my opinion. The adjustable seat (stock) and electric sdjusted windshield are awesome. I had owned the naked version R1150R. I would not recommend that one for tall riders. That is
You should know where seat heater is turned on, it's 5 year old design. (4th minute) That's rear seat switch and it has just two modes, it's turned off in the middle :) Journalists, ...
Very nice review, Sir! A couple years ago when I was shopping this segment it came down to either the RT or the Trophy SE. I ended up going with the Trophy, mainly because I preferred the triple and that I just connected with this bike. Now BMW has upped the game. I may have to go take a look at this new RT and see what the new machine feels like.
@@TonyDAdventures My 2010 1200RT came equipped by former owner with a set of folding forward foot pegs. I use them mostly one at a time...to use both is too much spread for me, but they work wonders at relieving leg and knee pain. Someone probably still makes a product like this.🏍
The USB in the cubby is not for charging; it's an audio input for a USB flash drive. You need a USB 12V adapter plugged into the 12V socket to charge the phone.
My VStrom w/ all the farkles may be a little long in the tooth, but I think I've saved enough$$ to buy yet another rental property, while going all the places the RT would go and more. I just don't get $25k+ for a motorcycle. Don't forget you need all the hi viz Klim gear to go with it.
Great review and very timely as it is time to trade my '08 K1200S in and head more towards touring and less sport touring orientation. But I was confused by the comments at 7:50 ish. Is there no longer a "lower chassis" option for us shorter riders... Thanks again for the awesome review Roman!
@tflnow that's is a sexy bike with great tech, awesome video! Cant wait for more motorcycle videos, let me know if you ever need help, love the moto's 😃
I wish someone would make an analysis of the true width of these bikes. Compare a narrower bike with rider on, where the knees stick out with an RT where the bike is obviously wider in appearance, but knees are covered. Narrow bike with rider on is almost the same width with an RT with rider on.
Great vid👍 interesting with old style speedometer on RT compared with GS digital tablet screen. I wonder what cost of replacing front wind screen if it broke? Over 200kgs I think better keep lifting wool bales to build some 💪💪LOL
You picked the best all around touring bike out there to review. However not enough detail in your review. It was more of an add for the bike. Your right about the right side fairing compartment being useless for a phone. It’s really meant for an iPod.
I have two friends who have 1200 RTs. Great mileage and range and that bike feels so light. Albeit I drive a Goldwing. I worry about all the drive shaft problems and having to pull half the engine apart to grease it. I am surprised they can't make the phone storage compartment where the charger is big enough to actually hold a phone. I heard they are very expensive to repair and they had problems with the new Chinese wiring or electronics. For the price I want to know that the German engineering is still being made in Germany. My friend said the service from BMW is not great and very expensive. He calls it bring my wallet. I think overall I would prefer the 1250 to the 1600 since its lighter and cheaper and has more than enough power. They can leave a lot of other bikes at the corner with all the torque. I am not sure about all the bells and whistles. They will be expensive to repair after the warranty runs out. I won't complain though if someone wants to give me one for Christmas.
K1600 is 340kg and like owning a luxury car, massive deprecation....expensive service 18000 valve check full service is going to cost £1000 at least, tyres last 4500 max. If you have deep pockets buy a K1600 the sensible compromise is the RT I have owned both and RT for me due to being able to move it around :-)
The R1250RS isn't available in the US yet. So far only the 1250 GS and RT have made it across the pond. The new RS looks significantly different than the old one. Much more proper sport tourer than the weird hodgepodge the 1200RS was.
Yep. Better how, I would ask? I've fortunately owned both. Currently on a 2019 RT. Could not be Better on road. My 2016 RT took me on a 5000 mile western trip last summer with extreme heat, storms and strong winds. Couldn't have had a more. Dependable and stable machine.
All these modern electronics didn't exist when I rode bikes, but ABS and rain mode must be excellent to have. In heavy downpour, it was quite nerve wrecking to brake hard. Also heated handlebars are great.
Heated grips, heated seat, electric windscreen, ride modes and ESA suspension, that's never seen before on RT, certainly worth wasting 70% of your review telling people about it. Facepalm.
One negative I have to say as a former BMW owner, their integrated radio setup seemed like a good idea at the time but it's pretty garbage in terms of quality.
Change the riding position for a start!Two of my friends (Inc me!)Cant ride ours for more than 50 miles on our bikes due to lower back pain!I can ride my 125 monkey bike further!!!
I pity any foolish soul that wants to come to Miami, SPECIALLY on a motorcycle, you'll become an statistic in no time. When people see you on a bike you become a moving target.
Nothing new except 50 more cc, BMW has fallen behind on technology, still using bulbs for lights instead of LED, analog gauges same technology and the 2014! Way behind everybody else!
My husband and I love this bike. The technology is great and has enhanced the bike performance immensely. Great bike.
I took delivery on a 2019 1250 in December. This is my 4th RT I’ve owned. Previous models were a 2009,2010, and a 2015. I’ve ridden thousands of trouble free miles on all my RTs. This bike fits me perfectly. However I could do without the radio, the sound of the motor is music to my ears. The smoothness of the transmission has been vastly improved since the 2015 model. I ride two up and frequently have to verify that’s she’s on the passenger seat. Fortunately for me she’s only about 100 lbs!
Grant Bradley
I’m pulling the trigger on an 18 leftover.You talked me into it!😂👍
From a 2018 RT Owner - Best part? Comfort and Convenience, followed closely by Confidence Inspiring Handling. Power? I only have 1200 cc’s but it’s more than enough power for any situation. GS? Considered it but no. If I want to go off road, I would get a much lighter 250 - 400cc bike. K1600? Great for touring but much too heavy for normal every day use around town. IMHO.
Nice video. Thanks!
GS is like 30 to 40 kilos lighter than RT. Way easier to handle around town.
RT is way more comfy though.
@@morningbetterlast mbl, I agree totally. The GS is much lighter than the RT. So easier to maneuver off-road but for me, it is still much too heavy a bike for off-road. If going off-road, I would prefer to have a light bike with less power that I could handle better with my level of rider skills. As for comfort, again I agree with you. I like my comfort and I also like the conveniences on the RT like the central locking system, electric windshield, cruise control, heated grips, heated seats, hill start control, ESA, Navigator 6, top case and drive modes. RT is not a bike for everyone but it is the right one for me. Cheers. 🥂
STOPsign
I agree,plus I think the GSA is a really ugly bike(subjective).Shopping for a 1250 RT now.Ride safe!
@@travelinben1966 Good luck in your search BM. I hope you find your dream. Cheers. 🥂
STOPsign
Thank you!
I love my 17 R1200RT. I'm looking forward to riding from the SF bay to Alaska next summer on it.
I'm 6-2 and 71 years young. I am pretty cramped up as I "unfold" myself after a ride....Just picked mine up yesterday, and cannot wait to munch some serious miles (This is my 4th RT, and at 342K miles of riding, I'm eagerly awaiting to sample the tech changes since my last RT in 2012. Good video and audio too!
Decided to go with the GSA. It makes that vineyard/waterfall/hamlet/lake 5kms down the “dirt” road accessible.
My only problem with this bike is that it would force me to sell my absolutely cherished R1150RT, which is like that perfect pair of aged blue jeans that couldn't fit better. Fuel mileage is superb, as is comfort. Storage is ample, and the thing is just insanely comfortable (I'm 6'1") with my Bill Mayer seat. In the mountains we sometimes go into full-on race mode, and the RT is always front runner, even though my buddies ride sport bikes. Not that those bikes under a pro's piloting wouldn't win, but I can get 98/100ths out of the RT, whereas if a layman was to try that on a Ninja ZX10, you might eat some tarmac. Man, I've gone to half the states in the USA on my RT. Couldn't love it more.
Life to short, you got to try out the latest and best, otherwise you miss out on to much.
@@checker3694 If you are always looking for the latest and best, you miss out on "just right." From what I see, Brian has it just right
@@ahppa No you don't, because you have been there and done it. A rolling stone gathers no moss
The RT is the most fun do it all street bike out there.
I have a 2018 S1000XR which I love but on a long trip this weekend where it got extremely windy and I was wanting something with more protection. How does the RT do on the windiest days?
@@brakesforsnakes757 it is as good as it gets in heavy winds. I have a quiet ride tall windshield on mine which is a big improvement over stock.
I had a 2012 R1200R and loved that bike. I'm really surprised BMW didn't go LED headlights. I have them on my 2016 FJR1300 and they make a BIG difference.
I'm struggling between keeping my FJR or getting this 1250 RT. Tough call, because the FJR is about the best bang for the buck, but the BMW is so freaking sweet !
I don’t understand how the quantity of BMW touring models (and I include K, GS and RS) don’t collapse under the weight of their own success. They’re all so good I can’t decide; almost makes me want to buy a Goldwing.
Great job Roman! I have the last air/oil cooler R1200RT, the 2013! It has been mostly trouble free for 46k miles. I am 6'3 and also find the seating position restrictive. On long rides my almost 60 year old body starts to cramp up. But other than that it is the most well rounded bike I have owned:)
Norm K. Good tip. I am 6.2. Ride the 02 1150RT. Very confortable in my opinion. The adjustable seat (stock) and electric sdjusted windshield are awesome. I had owned the naked version R1150R. I would not recommend that one for tall riders. That is
You should know where seat heater is turned on, it's 5 year old design. (4th minute) That's rear seat switch and it has just two modes, it's turned off in the middle :) Journalists, ...
Very nice review, Sir! A couple years ago when I was shopping this segment it came down to either the RT or the Trophy SE. I ended up going with the Trophy, mainly because I preferred the triple and that I just connected with this bike. Now BMW has upped the game. I may have to go take a look at this new RT and see what the new machine feels like.
The only consistent negative on this bike for me over the years is my legs it cramped on long rides.
@@TonyDAdventures My 2010 1200RT came equipped by former owner with a set of folding forward foot pegs. I use them mostly one at a time...to use both is too much spread for me, but they work wonders at relieving leg and knee pain. Someone probably still makes a product like this.🏍
IMHO, the telelever IS the best tech that transcend the bike from the others after owning a GS.
I’m really Happy to see you guys doing motorcycle reviews also!! Keep up the good work, I’m a fan!
holy crap Roman rides bikes too never knew total respect Sir, Nathan would be the cruiser guy for sure with his little stubby legs.
Colin Goldthorpe yeh, been following his Tesla vids myself. Good to see him here as I rate him an honest broker
The USB in the cubby is not for charging; it's an audio input for a USB flash drive. You need a USB 12V adapter plugged into the 12V socket to charge the phone.
The 1200RT is an amazing bike and really agile to carve the canyons in AZ
WHOOOOOAAAA. What's this? TFL motorcycles? Very nice. The RT is a great bike.
My VStrom w/ all the farkles may be a little long in the tooth, but I think I've saved enough$$ to buy yet another rental property, while going all the places the RT would go and more. I just don't get $25k+ for a motorcycle. Don't forget you need all the hi viz Klim gear to go with it.
Love the motorcycle reviews!
Great review and very timely as it is time to trade my '08 K1200S in and head more towards touring and less sport touring orientation. But I was confused by the comments at 7:50 ish. Is there no longer a "lower chassis" option for us shorter riders... Thanks again for the awesome review Roman!
I Love you BMW RT .❤️👍
@tflnow that's is a sexy bike with great tech, awesome video! Cant wait for more motorcycle videos, let me know if you ever need help, love the moto's 😃
Fun/useful factoid, R12 accessories are MUCH cheaper than K16 accessories and more plentiful.
As a tall guy what was more comfortable the GS or the RT? I like the RT but it feels somewhat cramped sitting on it. Love the bike vids!
CPUspeed The GSA, does 95% of what a RT can do with more comfort and better luggage capability, I have the Exclusive and it’s superb.
It's R1250RT, & it's a sport-tourer.
I wish someone would make an analysis of the true width of these bikes. Compare a narrower bike with rider on, where the knees stick out with an RT where the bike is obviously wider in appearance, but knees are covered. Narrow bike with rider on is almost the same width with an RT with rider on.
Is TFL Motorcycles coming soon to a computer near you?
Great bike made even better.
I have an '18 1200. Actively looking for an independent mechanic to do my 12k valve adjustment when the time comes. Dealer quoted me $1200.
5'9" with 30 inch inseam. Is this bike for me?
Great vid👍 interesting with old style speedometer on RT compared with GS digital tablet screen. I wonder what cost of replacing front wind screen if it broke? Over 200kgs I think better keep lifting wool bales to build some 💪💪LOL
usually go for aftermarket for bigger screen ran about mid 200-mid 300
So smooth and comfortable to me
TFLmotorcycles when?
You picked the best all around touring bike out there to review. However not enough detail in your review. It was more of an add for the bike. Your right about the right side fairing compartment being useless for a phone. It’s really meant for an iPod.
I have two friends who have 1200 RTs. Great mileage and range and that bike feels so light. Albeit I drive a Goldwing. I worry about all the drive shaft problems and having to pull half the engine apart to grease it. I am surprised they can't make the phone storage compartment where the charger is big enough to actually hold a phone. I heard they are very expensive to repair and they had problems with the new Chinese wiring or electronics. For the price I want to know that the German engineering is still being made in Germany. My friend said the service from BMW is not great and very expensive. He calls it bring my wallet. I think overall I would prefer the 1250 to the 1600 since its lighter and cheaper and has more than enough power. They can leave a lot of other bikes at the corner with all the torque. I am not sure about all the bells and whistles. They will be expensive to repair after the warranty runs out. I won't complain though if someone wants to give me one for Christmas.
If you like comfort try K1600 GT 👌
K1600 is 340kg and like owning a luxury car, massive deprecation....expensive service 18000 valve check full service is going to cost £1000 at least, tyres last 4500 max. If you have deep pockets buy a K1600 the sensible compromise is the RT I have owned both and RT for me due to being able to move it around :-)
Can you review the r1250rs? I just found out this bike existed and it's sexy as F.
The R1250RS isn't available in the US yet. So far only the 1250 GS and RT have made it across the pond. The new RS looks significantly different than the old one. Much more proper sport tourer than the weird hodgepodge the 1200RS was.
Why no TFT?
no, they added 80ccm
When automatic ???
That's a sweet motorcycle, but I like the GSA better.
Can't see if it's shaft or chain driven.
Its a shaft drive
And dropped the Brembo braked. Gained a car length in emergency stopping distance from speed
Not what I read. The BMW brakes are every bit as good as the Brembo brakes.
@Ticky Tocky - I read a review and they said every bit as good.
I prefer my K1600. The RT is better in the twisties, but the K1600 is better on the highway.
Better how?
What a load of bullshit. Law Enforcement utilizes these motorcycles across the globe.
Yep. Better how, I would ask? I've fortunately owned both. Currently on a 2019 RT. Could not be Better on road. My 2016 RT took me on a 5000 mile western trip last summer with extreme heat, storms and strong winds. Couldn't have had a more. Dependable and stable machine.
All these modern electronics didn't exist when I rode bikes, but ABS and rain mode must be excellent to have. In heavy downpour, it was quite nerve wrecking to brake hard.
Also heated handlebars are great.
It’s all good from you guys... enjoy that BMW paycheck
Why is the trac off light flashing
Is the cámara effect
Shopping for a leftover r1200rt.More than adequate for me I’m sure.
Ticky Tocky
Congrats.I’m ready to pull the trigger myself.I love that bike! Ride safe and enjoy!
Ticky Tocky
👍
If you want to canyon carve an a BMW tourer that is what they make the S1000XR for ;)
You can "canyon carve" just as well on an RT
mrvwbug44 I disagree. The RT takes sharp angles easily, and effortless, which is the most important thing when you are riding few hours.
Heated grips, heated seat, electric windscreen, ride modes and ESA suspension, that's never seen before on RT, certainly worth wasting 70% of your review telling people about it.
Facepalm.
at 2:40-a knight!
Shame on BMW for parking in a handicap zone at 8:35. There are people that really need these spaces.
Bill Reitz and HOW DO YOU KNOW these are NOT handycap riders?
@@Tax2Me don't worry, I know. How many factory supplied bikes for journalists have you seen with handicap plates ??
One negative I have to say as a former BMW owner, their integrated radio setup seemed like a good idea at the time but it's pretty garbage in terms of quality.
Oh yes
Love the no dive
only 250 miles on a tank? my 2010 rt does about 325 on a tank. 300 easy
how is this an offroad video? they do car reviews on tflnow so why not bikes?
Change the riding position for a start!Two of my friends (Inc me!)Cant ride ours for more than 50 miles on our bikes due to lower back pain!I can ride my 125 monkey bike further!!!
Really disagree with the Rt being a "reluctant dance partner". I have owned sport bikes that don't handle better.
Best ride fo 24 motorcycles for me
Can’t wait to see the maintenance bill on a valve adjustment
Not as bad as an Africa Twin. Took me almost 10 hours.😳
I pity any foolish soul that wants to come to Miami, SPECIALLY on a motorcycle, you'll become an statistic in no time. When people see you on a bike you become a moving target.
No way that thing is ever going off-road. But please keep the motorcycles coming.
What else to whine about? No cup holders, wwwwhat?
And not choke going into 2nd like on the 2018
And brake mixing
Needs Bluetooth to the phone... big miss
It rides like a bicycle
The steering is so Short , it was better having a Longer Steering Wheel ..
And the price must be a lot expensive man .
Lennox steering wheel? WTF are you talking about?
Great bike but why name the video as riding the bike when most of the video is in the car park? BORING!
Nothing new except 50 more cc, BMW has fallen behind on technology, still using bulbs for lights instead of LED, analog gauges same technology and the 2014! Way behind everybody else!
But noBluetooth .... big miss
Shame about that ugly dash