R 1300 RT is BMW’s new flagship road biased tourer

BMW has unveiled another model featuring its 1,300cc boxer engine – the R 1300 RT. Designed for long-distance touring, it offers a 10.25-inch TFT display paired with an integrated audio system, among many other things.

1. BMW R 1300 RT shares its engine with the R 1300 GS
2. It features electronically adjustable suspension
3. It has a 10.25-inch TFT display, radar-based rider aids

BMW R 1300 RT unveiled ahead of India launch

The R 1300 RT is focused at long-distance highway touring

The BMW R 1300 RT was launched alongside the R 1300 RS and belongs to the same family as the previously introduced R 1300 R and R 1300 GS. It features a noticeably larger fairing for improved wind and weather protection. The RT shares its engine with the R 1300 GS – a horizontally opposed, twin-cylinder, air- and liquid-cooled unit that produces 145hp at 7,750rpm and 149Nm at 6,500rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.

BMW R 1300 RT suspension and brakes

It gets an EVO Telelever front and EVO Paralever rear suspension

This engine comes nestled within the same main-frame as the R 1300 GS, but borrows its rear subframe from the R 1300 R and the R 1300 RS. The frame is suspended by an EVO Telelever front and EVO Paralever rear suspension. This setup enhances stability and steering precision, particularly when braking or navigating uneven terrain.

Braking duties are handled by twin front discs with radially mounted four-piston calipers and a rear disc with a two-piston floating caliper. The R 1300 RT also features the same 17-inch cast aluminium alloys as the R and RS at both ends that reduce unsprung weight by 1.4kg. 

BMW R 1300 RT storage options

Features twin 27-litre touring cases as standard

The R 1300 RT comes with twin 27-litre touring cases as standard. BMW also offers optional Vario cases with capacity adjustable between 27 and 33 litres, both electrified and compatible with the central locking system. Additionally, there's an option of two top cases with a capacity of 39 litres and 54 litres, respectively. Both models add a heated backrest for the pillion. The large 54-litre luggage compartment is also electric.

BMW R 1300 RT electronics suite and variants

It features active cruise control and forward collision warning with active braking

The BMW R 1300 RT is packed with a wide range of electronic rider aids, including traction control, engine braking control, active cruise control and forward and rear collision warning, active braking and lane sway warning. It comes with three default riding modes – Eco, Rain, and Road – while the optional Riding Package Pro adds Dynamic and Dynamic Pro modes. Unlike any other 1,300cc model from BMW, the R 1300 RT features a 10.25-inch TFT display with an integrated audio system.

The R 1300 RT is offered in four distinct variants, each with its own unique color scheme: Basic Variant, Triple Black, Impulse, and Option 719 Camargue. It remains to be seen when the Bavarian brand finally gets the R 1300 RT to India.

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