BMW R 1250 RT

We have gone in to much detail about the larger new powerplant fitted to the 2019 BMW R 1250 RT at this link, but in summary…

2019 the engine gains more capacity, growing from 1170cc to 1254cc, via both a longer stroke and an enlarged bore, and gains 9 per cent more power along with 14 per cent more torque.

The new 1250 Boxer produces, according to BMW, 136 hp (100 kW) at 7750 rpm, and 143 Nm of torque at 6250 rpm. The outgoing model’s numbers were 125 hp and 125 Nm. 

While there are improvements from idle all the way through to redline, from the accompanying dyno chart it appears that the greatest gains are made from 5000 rpm up. There is at least 110 Nm of torque available right from as low as 2000 rpm, and over 120 Nm from 3500 rpm.

The other big news is the move to what BMW are calling ‘Shiftcam Technology.  This is, essentially, variable valve timing of the inlet cam. The inlet cam has two sets of lobes, one set with shallow lift and modest duration, for great torque, reduced emissions and improved economy.  While the second set of lobes are of a much more wild duration and lift, which promises a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde character to the new Boxer.

Engine idle speed is also lowered by 100rpm thanks to the Dr Jekyll set of cam lobes while fuel economy in some parts of the rev range is up to four per cent better than before.

For a more technical run down on the new engine, its ShiftCam tech, new cylinder heads and exhaust, riding modes and improved gearbox see below.

R 1250 RT gains optional ‘Next Generation’ Dynamic ESA

An even higher level of riding safety, performance and comfort is achieved with the BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), now also available as an optional equipment item for the R 1250 RT: here, the damping automatically adapts to the situation depending on riding state and manoeuvres, and there is also automatic riding position compensation in all load states.

In terms of the technical background, signals from the rotational speed sensor and the two travel sensors at the front and rear enable comprehensive data collection and therefore finely tuned adaptation of the motorcycle to riding states. Based on additional parameters, riding states are detected such as compression, acceleration and deceleration, and these are incorporated in the adaptation of damping forces, both at the rear spring strut and Telelever front wheel control.

This adaptation is applied by means of electrically actuated regulation valves within the millisecond range. As a result, optimum damping comfort and a very stable ride response is ensured even in banking position.

Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” is pre-set to the “Road” damping characteristics in the standard set-up of the riding modes “Rain”, “Road” and “Dynamic”. At the press of a button – conveniently positioned on the handlebars so it can even be operated during travel – the rider can switch to the damping characteristics “Dynamic” in the riding modes “Rain” and “Road”, thereby selecting a tighter damping set-up. The tighter damping variant “Dynamic” is pre-set in the riding modes “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro”.

R 1250 GS gains standard 5.7” Full Colour TFT

The R 1250 RT is fitted with a large 5.7-inch TFT colour screen. This is supplemented with an analog speedometer and rev counter and controlled by the standard BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller.

The RT does not as yet gain all full connectivity features that debut on its R 1250 GS sibling for 2019.

New colours and bling

The new R 1250 RT embodies its exclusive touring character in one basic colour, two style variants and two Option 719 Spezial finishes.

As compared to the predecessor model, the engine spoiler has been newly designed and an additional front spoiler has been added. Another striking visual feature is the pipe ducting of the new exhaust manifold system. Along with these body modifications, there are also three attractive colour and style variants as well as two additional special finishes available for the new R 1250 RT, each creating a powerfully distinctive character

Basic version in Alpine White

This traditional BMW Motorrad colour gives the R 1250 RT a timeless and at the same time dynamic look. As in all other versions, a newly designed model inscription is applied here. Cylinder head covers with the lettering “ShiftCam” – a reference to the new engine generation – set it apart from the predecessor model at first sight. The Silver metallic wheels and the drivetrain in Aluminium Silver metallic create fascinating contrasts. A distinctive touch is also provided by the central fuel tank cover and the knee cover in Slate Dark metallic matt, as well as components in contrasting black such as handlebar weights, the windshield trim element and brake calipers. The front and engine spoiler in Night Black matt give the engine section an especially prominent and dynamic emphasis.

Option 719 Spezial finishes in Blue Planet metallic and Sparkling Storm metallic

A particularly intense metallic effect is created by the two Spezial colours Blue Planet metallic and Sparkling Storm metallic. The body colour is to be found on the central fuel tank cover, the left and right-hand fuel tank covering, the trim on the case lids, the front, rear and side trim section and also on the front  spoiler, front wheel cover and knee cover. Chrome elements such as the handlebar weights and windshield trim element underscore the luxurious character of the new R 1250 RT.

The engine spoiler finished in Night Black creates a contrast with the power unit in Aluminium Silver metallic. Silver-coated wheels and golden brake calipers emphasise the high-quality appearance of the new R 1250 RT.

In conjunction with the two Spezial paint variants, customers can also upgrade the new R 1250 RT with the Option 719 seat in brown. However, this seat is available in standard seat height and with seat heating only

R 1250 RT Sport

In this style variant with the colour combination Mars Red metallic / Slate Dark metallic matt, the new R 1250 RT reveals its sporty, dynamic qualities. Here the new engine is highlighted by means of cylinder head covers in Agate Grey metallic matt, while the R 1250 RT Sport is fitted with a shortened windshield as a sporty feature, though customers can replace this with the standard windshield if they wish.

The wheels in Asphalt Grey metallic matt and the drivetrain coated in black give the R 1250 RT a particularly powerful appearance. Parts such as the handlebar weights and windshield trim element are also finished in black.

The contrast colour Slate Dark metallic matt provides a harmonious supplement to the body finish in Mars Red metallic on the central fuel tank cover, knee cover and front trim section. An engine spoiler in black silk matt and front spoiler finished in Mars Red metallic homogeneously supplement the power unit with its black finish. Meanwhile brake calipers in gold add a fascinating technological accentuation, underscoring the active, sporty character of the R 1250 RT.

R 1250 RT Elegance

This style variant emphasises the elegant appearance of the new R 1250 RT by means of a body finish in Carbon Black metallic. The wheels finished in Silver metallic with a drivetrain in Aluminium Silver metallic add a powerful contrast as well as a touch of refinement. Homogeneous accentuations are provided by the central fuel tank cover and knee cover in Granite Grey metallic matt.

Chrome elements such as the handlebar weights and windshield trim element underscore the exclusive touch of the new touring bike. The engine spoiler in Night Black matt prominently showcases the new power unit in combination with the front spoiler in body finish. Golden brake calipers round off the elegant appearance of the R 1250 RT in this style variant.

Wide range of seat height variants.

With the new R 1250 RT the customer has a choice of three rider seat variants. The two-level seat is the standard version, with a seat height of 805/825. In addition there is the 760/780 mm and the 830/850 mm variant. As such, a total spectrum covering a height difference of 90 mm is offered between the lowest and highest seat variant ex works. All three variants can also be ordered with seat heating.