2021 BMW R 1250 RT

[Hugh Janus]

2021 BMW R 1250 RT. (BMW/)

Ups

• State-of-the-art tech—you can’t miss spotting a large 10.25-inch TFT display
• Capable chassis
• Flush with touring history
• Superb engine

Downs

• Great on long straightaways and sweepers, but top-heaviness is noticeable when roads get tight

Verdict

For sophisticated tech, superb engine performance, and precise steering (even at 100-plus mph), the BMW R 1250 RT offers a satisfying long-haul ride.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT. (BMW/)

Overview

The touring functionality of the R 1250 RT has kept it at the forefront of BMW’s lineup since it appeared as the R100RT in 1976. As a 2021 model, the R 1250 RT continues its focus on creature comforts with improvements for high-end touring.

Updates for 2021

“We have given the R 1250 RT a new look, a comprehensive increase in standard equipment and numerous technical upgrades to achieve a whole new riding experience,” Project Manager Harald Spagl says. Specifically, the RT is now fitted with Full Integral ABS Pro, which will be fully explained in the Brakes section below. Dynamic Cruise Control is standard and Active Cruise control is an option. The former helps maintain selected speed when going downhill and the latter uses radar sensor technology to adapt controlled speed to vehicles in front. The full LED headlight and expansive 10.25-inch TFT display is also new. The revised fairing completes the touring look.

Pricing and Variants

Pricing starts at $20,190 for the RT in Alpine White and can go up to $21,940 depending on color choice.

Like all BMW’s models, the RT is upgradable with several factory-offered accessories and packages. The Select Package ($4,250) outfits the 1250 with premium equipment like a heated seat, anti-theft alarm system, Ride Modes Pro settings, Gear Shift Assist Pro (a bidirectional quickshifter), Dynamic Engine Brake Control, Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (semi-active damping), and various other upgrades.

Competition

Other bikes that go the touring distance with the RT include the Honda Gold Wing, Yamaha FJR1300ES, and Kawasaki Concours 14.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Powered by an air/liquid-cooled 1,254cc boxer engine, it hits peak 136 hp and 105 pound-feet while meeting Euro 5 regulations. In Bruno dePrato’s first ride review, he was pleased with the performance, writing, “The engine is simply superb, with instant meaty throttle response at any speed, with supreme engine torque delivery assisting magnificently in both city and backroad duty. A balance shaft kills all vibrations coming from the boxer twin’s offset cylinders. Speaking of throttle response, I started the ride in Road mode which makes the throttle less direct and not as impressive. But switch to Dynamic mode and the engine’s response is connected and direct—as if the engine is connected to your wrist. Spot-on. Period.”

2021 BMW R 1250 RT. (BMW/)

Handling

Steering is reported to be precise, firm, and stable, even at 120-mph speeds on smooth roads; rough, tight twisting roads, however, presents unpredictable handling with its top-heaviness. A claimed 615 pounds does that.

The R 1250 RT is suspended via a front Telever and rear paralever units. Upgrading to the Select Package equips the RT with BMW’s Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), otherwise known as semi-active damping, with three preset riding modes to choose from.

Brakes

Combined with ABS Pro (that utilizes cornering ABS), the RT’s Full Integral ABS Pro unit is a system that, regardless of actuating only the front brake lever or rear brake pedal, pressure is applied to each end.

At the front, there are twin 320mm disc brakes and four-piston radial calipers, and at the rear single 277mm disc brake and double-piston floating caliper.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT. (BMW/)

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Miles per gallon is currently not available, but if interested in having the most efficient fuel economy select the Eco ride mode to make the most of the 6.6 gallons of fuel.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

This BMW has comforts (both standard and optional) for the tour. The rider is protected from the elements by an expansive and adjustable windscreen and can store away any extra gear in the 18.4 gallons of standard storage space. Seat height is set at 32.5 inches, however, it can be dropped to 31.7 inches to cater to the rider’s inseam. If increased seat comfort in cold weather is a must, then there’s a heated seat and grip option. The heated option and well-shaped saddle of the BMW were admired by test riders in the past.

2021 BMW R 1250 RT. (BMW/)

Electronics

Three ride modes (Eco, Rain, and Road), Full Integral ABS Pro, full LED headlights, huge 10.25-inch TFT display, Dynamic Cruise Control, four programmable favorite buttons, Dynamic Traction Control, and Hill Start Control all come standard. There’s also a large variety of optional electronics to fully deck out this tourer.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The R 1250 RT has an impressive three-year warranty.

Quality

Contemporary tech and superb engineering have gone into the design and making of the BMW R 1250 RT, and it is honed in for almost any road. As Bruno dePrato said, the BMW “does it all with supreme class and composure.”

2021 BMW R 1250 RT. (BMW/)

2021 BMW R 1250 RT Claimed Specifications

MSRP:	$20,190–$21,940
Engine:	1,254cc, DOHC, air/liquid-cooled flat twin w/ BMW ShiftCam
Bore x Stroke:	102.5 x 76.0mm
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/shaft
Fuel Delivery:	EFI w/ ride-by-wire
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate; hydraulic actuation
Frame:	Two-section w/ load-bearing engine
Front Suspension:	37mm BMW Telelever, central spring strut; 4.7 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	BMW paralever, WAD strut, spring preload, rebound damping adjustable; 5.4 in. travel
Front Brake:	4-piston fixed calipers, 320mm floating discs w/ BMW Motorrad Integral ABS
Rear Brake:	2-piston floating caliper, 276mm disc w/ BMW Motorrad Integral ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Cast aluminum; 17 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 5.50 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	120/70ZR-17 / 180/55ZR-17
Rake/Trail:	25.9°/4.6 in.
Wheelbase:	58.5 in.
Ground Clearance:	N/A
Seat Height:	31.7/32.5 in.
Fuel Capacity:	6.6 gal.
Wet Weight:	615 lb.
Contact:	bmwmotorcycles.com

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