BMW R1250RT (2019 - on) Review
Highlights
- Huge dash makes others look like a postage stamp
- Linked brakes improve stopping distance and stability
- Wide spread of growling power from ShiftCam engine
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £540 |
| Power: | 134 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (32.5 in / 825 mm) |
| Weight: | High (615 lbs / 279 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThis BMW R1250RT replaces the R1200RT. It was always going to be tricky to improve on such a successful sports tourer, but BMW have managed it, thanks to its tasty new motor. Now there's more of everything: lolloping lowdown power, a chunkier midrange and the kind of savage top end kick that leaves you asking whether this really is a humble boxer twin.
The motor's extra sparkle and the firmer electronically suspended ride gives a sportier overall feel, but still manages to be ultra refined, comfortable, roomy, convenient and characterful. It's this enviable mix of peppiness-meets-luxury that's going to make the mighty RT harder to beat than ever.
2021 BMW R1250RT
For 2021 the R1250RT gets a new face, more luxury, safety and convenience. A new 10.25in colour dash gives the BMW a more sophisticated feel and linked brakes improve stopping power and stability.
New optional equipment adaptive cornering LEDs spray night-time roads with brilliant white light and its active cruise control works well when you’re happy to cruise in lines of traffic, but you’ll need to help it along with the throttle when its radar lingers on slower vehicles. The automatic braking function works well, too, but isn’t as smooth as you’d be.
Elsewhere the 2021 R1250RT is the same sporty tourer we’ve come to know and love. It’s still supremely comfortable, full of luxury, tech and its ShiftCam engine still has the uncanny ability to be calm when you need it to be and riot of growling thrust when you want to get a move on.
The RT is as happy to waft along motorways as it is to dance in the corners, but you’re always aware of its sheer bulk in town, filtering and shorter riders will always be aware of its size coming to a stop.
There are more luxurious machines out there, but none have the BMW’s sense of fun on backroads. Sportier and more adventure-focussed tourers will do big miles with an even bigger spring in their step, too, but they just don’t put their arms around you and cosset you to your destination like the RT does.
The BMW doesn’t have any direct rivals, but even if it did, it would still be in a class of its own.
Watch: BMW R1250RT video review
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineChanges may only be restricted to its engine and a few details, but that's fine by us because BMW's new tourer does what RTs do best: just about everything, especially if you’ve spec'd it to the moon, which you’re advised to do.
Easy controls, perfect fuelling and fingertip-light steering make it a joy to ride through town. Cruise control, an electric screen, superb wind protection and a lack of engine vibes let you waft, untroubled for hundreds of miles and you won't ever get cold thanks to five stage heated grips and seat, which you could cook your dinner on.
And when you want to blast along your favourite stretches the RT will do that in style, wet or dry, thanks to its fantastic brakes, grippy Metzeler Z8 Roadtec tyres, stable chassis and grunt from the best boxer engine ever made.
A wide ride
It’s wide enough to make you think twice about breath-in filtering, so spacious you’ll forever have a happy pillion and full of fuel weighs a hefty 279kg, but the R1250RT somehow has the steering, agility and short wheelbase-feel of a sportsbike. It’s always been this way, which is why the RT is exemplary on the mountain roads of Europe as it is trudging along the motorways to get there.
Optional electronic suspension with constantly adjusting damping and rear ‘self-levelling’ preload, is sharper and more accurate than ever in its Dynamic riding mode. It still delivers a smooth ride, especially in Rain and Road modes (although not as well damped), but the ride quality isn’t the last word in shag pile plushness, like a multi-cylinder tourer, American cruiser or BM’s own K1600.
A 'hill start' system comes as standard, which is far handier than you'd imagine, especially on a big bike riding through stop/start towns and cities. Holding the brake on sloped junctions is hardly taxing, but with hill start doing it for you (clamping the rear brake until you pull away) it’s just one small extra thing that makes the RT nicer to live with.
An optional up/down quickshifter
It works by pulling firmly on the front brake lever, or if you’ve ticked the options box it’s gyro controlled and does it automatically on a five degree or steeper slope. Optional up/down quickshifter (also available on the previous RT) works well with the engine under high load, but with gear ratios widely spaced it’s stiffer at low speed and kinder on the box if you use the clutch.
2021 BMW R1250RT ride and handling
The 2021 R1250RT rides exactly the same way as before, but the main change to what you’ll feel behind the bars is its new dual braking system. Both brakes operate regardless of whether you pull the front lever or stomp on the rear and that flattens the BMW under hard braking - pushing both wheels into the tarmac for maximum grip and stopping power.
Its standard electronically controlled screen is refined to shield the rider from unwanted windblast and works beautifully, but it’s a little too short for taller riders, who may need to go for the higher, wider accessory screen
If you go for the active cruise control option, it adds an extra dynamic compared to a regular system. As you approach a vehicle the RT slows down to match its pace and accelerates back up to your previous speed when it moves clear.
It also brakes for you when it needs to shed a lot of speed or going downhill, although it does it with little finesse. The radar often catches slower traffic when you don’t want it to, so you have to keep helping the cruise control along with the throttle to maintain momentum.
⏱️ Join @Neevesy33 for #60secondswith the BMW R1250RT. pic.twitter.com/GynVE4sihj
— Motor Cycle News (@MCNnews) March 17, 2021
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityRemember the old days when BMW flat twin engines were quirky, but bulletproof lumps, designed for pushing along policemen, beards, pipes and slippers? Things couldn't be more different now with the RT’s evolving into graceful sophistication.
Sure, the Boxer lump still isn't as refined as a conventionally laid-out three, four or six-cylinder motor and there's a fair bit of vibration on a closed throttle above 4000rpm, but it growls and bellows like a race bike one minute and whispers along the next, depending on your mood.
A wide, beefy spread of power lets you pull cleanly from as little as 2000rpm in top (35-40mph), cruise on the motorway at 3500rpm and give sportsbikes the hurry-up when you keep the revs on the boil.
A capacity increase
Like the 2019 R1250GS, GS Adventure and R the R1250RT gets an 84cc capacity hike and variable valve timing 'Shift Cam' system. There's 14ftlb more torque, 250rpm lower down in the revs and power is up from 123bhp to 134bhp. Each cylinder’s inlet cam features partial and high lift cam lobes and slides across the top of the engine (in just five milliseconds and undetectable from the rider) delivering mild or hairy cam timing, depending on your throttle input.
Inlet valves are staggered when they're open, creating swirl in the combustion chamber for a better burn. BMW claims improved fuel economy - we managed 47mpg (191 miles before the reserve light) and a theoretical range of 258 miles from the 25-litre tank.
Performance is left unchanged for the 2021 model and on MCN’s dyno it makes healthy 126.24bhp and 101.21 lb-ft of torque at the back wheel. In its new (and optional) fuel saving 'Eco' riding mode the power curve is smoother, but runs out of puff sooner, peaking at 92.09bhp and 74.99lb-ft.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValuePowering BMWs since the dawn of time the German’s firm’s Boxer engine is well developed and largely dependable. The ShiftCam 1250 has been around since 2019 in the R1250RT, RS and GS and despite its variable valve system having the delicate complexity of a Swiss watch it’s proved to be reliable, according to our owners’ reviews below, as have its raft of electronic systems and rider aids.
From the way the new mirrors glide seamlessly in their housings when you adjust them, to the reassuring click of its chunky switchgear controls the RT is always ready to remind you it’s premium piece of kit.
For 2021 it has four 'favourites' buttons on the fairing to short cut you to the menu features of your choice on the dash and adaptive headlights have 'welcome' and 'follow me home' functions.
Castings, plastics and fasteners are quality, in a Teutonic Tonka Toy kind of way and infill panels around the engine bay keep everything looking neat. The dash has a satin, anti-glare finish that water-stains easily, but glass cleaner brings it up like new.
Our BMW R1250RT owners' reviews indicate a somewhat mixed bag when it comes to reliability. Several people have had issues with the screen and/or multimedia system playing up, and there's mention of excess corrosion too.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentThe R1250RT is a lot of touring bike for the money, but it doesn’t have any direct rivals other than more cruiser-style tourers or adventures.
There’s the RT’s big sister: the K1600GT. It’s hard not to be impressed with a 1.6 litre tourer that sounds like an BMW M3 at full chat and glides like a bullet train on the motorway.
But it’s a behemoth of a thing that weighs the same as a small country, has a surprisingly agricultural gearbox and has more a cruiser-like feel to it than the far nimbler RT. It’s not cheap, even in base trim.
You could also go for the BMW R1250GS, which also trample miles without breaking a sweat, but it has an extra string to its bow: it’s an extremely capable off-roader, too. It’s lighter, more agile and sportier with decent weather protection, but it isn’t as calm and comfortable as the RT on motorways or have so much standard luggage capacity and storage space.
If you want something more elegant the Ducati Multistrada V4 combines comfort with searing on-road performance and muddy-tyred fun. It’s far sportier than the RT and similarly packed with tech and rider aids, including active cruise control. but you’ll have to do without an electrically adjustable screen, or as much wind-cheating bodywork to hide behind.
Equipment
The BMW R1250RT is all about pampering its rider with space, a natural riding position, sumptuously padded seat and goodies galore. The base model has panniers, cruise control, heated grips, electrically adjustable screen, 'Rain' and 'Road' modes, traction control, cornering ABS and linked brakes.
The all-singing LT version and showers you with goodies like 'Eco' and 'Dynamic' riding modes, semi-active suspension damping, self-levelling rear shock and an up/down shifter, keyless ignition and fuel cap, central locking and heated seat.
New for 2021 is a 10.25in colour TFT display is standard and replaces the previous analogue dial/small TFT layout. Tastefully huge and easy to read without being garish or distracting, it makes every other dash look puny at a stroke.
It has a split screen function so you can view your main display with revs, speed and gear position on the left and choose any number of menu functions, including its in-built sat nav on the right. Four buttons, fitted to the left side of the fairing, short cut you to your favourite menu functions.
There’s a catalogue as long as your arm with more touring, cosmetic and performance accessories, including luggage, billet ali parts, active cruise control and an air-cooled cubby hole with an integrated wireless charger.
Specs |
|
| Engine size | 1254cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Liquid-cooled, 8v, flat twin |
| Frame type | Tubular steel |
| Fuel capacity | 20 litres |
| Seat height | 825mm |
| Bike weight | 279kg |
| Front suspension | Telelever with non-adjustable single spring |
| Rear suspension | Paralever with single spring adjustable for preload and rebound damping (Dynamic ESA optional) |
| Front brake | 2 x 320mm front discs with four-piston Hayes radial calipers. ABS |
| Rear brake | 276mm rear disc with twin piston caliper. ABS |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear tyre size | 180/55 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
|
| Average fuel consumption | - |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £117 |
| Annual service cost | £540 |
| New price | £15,820 |
| Used price | £9,400 - £15,800 |
| Insurance group |
- How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Three years |
Top speed & performance |
|
| Max power | 134 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 106 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 140 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | - |
| Tank range | 259 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
- 2005: R1200RT introduced – replaces the R1150RT. 15% more power, 20kg lighter
- 2010: Update: HP2 Sport-derived new twin cam engine, fairing and clocks.
- 2014: RT gets partially water-cooled motor, smoother throttle, fairing and ergonomic tweaks. Traction control, two riding mods, electric screen and ABS are standard.
- 2019: R1200RT replaced by R1250RT with more powerful new ShiftCam engine, a change from Brembo to BMW branded Hayes calipers, hill hold control and self-levelling rear shock (with electronic suspension versions). Available in base, SE and LE spec.
- 2021: R1250RT gets restyled nose fairing and screen, a 10.15in colour TFT dash with split screen function, cornering ABS with dual braking and options including adaptive headlights, active cruise control and wireless phone charger. Available in base and LE spec.
Other versions
There are none to date.
Owners' reviews for the BMW R1250RT (2019 - on)
25 owners have reviewed their BMW R1250RT (2019 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your BMW R1250RT (2019 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews |
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| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
| Annual servicing cost: | £540 |
Version: le
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £350
Great do-it-all bike - remarkable in many respects. Slightly heavy for many older riders though.
electric screen fantastic
Version: LE
Year: 2023
All round ability, it’s just very good at pretty much anything you ask it to do. The torque rich engine is glorious, the gearbox/quick shifter is okay, fuel economy is excellent, comfort is superb and it’s remarkably chuckable in the twisties.
It’s a tourer and touring is what it does best. A ten day two up trip of 2,500 plus miles to the French and Italian Alps was exactly what it was built to do. Typical days were under 300 miles and about 7 hours of riding with two or three comfort breaks. Tour of Ireland planned for 2025
The torque is phenomenal, it pulls cleanly from below 2500 rpm, even in high gears, and I rarely need to go over 5,000 rpm. The connection between throttle and engine response is just perfect. When you do use the higher revs it’s very quick indeed! It really doesn’t need any more power or torque to do what is expected of a sporty tourer.
Everything is good. The bike was recalled by BMW, not DVLA, for inspection of suspension due to a dodgy batch of units. Mine were changed front and rear. Exactly how it should be done. No issues to report after 12 months and 6,000 miles.
Pre paid for 3 years servicing at good rate. Dealer always offers a loan bike if I need it.
I love the huge TFT screen but the satnav link to iPhone via the Connected app leaves a lot to be desired hence the 4 out of 5 (I’ve mounted my old Nav V above it as backup). The electric windscreen is a must have now along with the heated grips and seat! Oh, the luggage is pretty damned good too.
Buying experience: Bought from BMW main dealership at £21,500 Happy with the price and the backup service they provide.
Version: LE with all the options
Year: 2024
Annual servicing cost: £1,000
Seriously nice bike seriously let down by a rock hard and far too wide, slippery and bench like rider's seat and lack of illumination of the multitude of knobs and switches. The gear selector is tiny and very, very close to the peg meaning that heavy boots can't be worn without adjusting the lever to it's limits. I had to take a file to the turnbuckle to shorten it to get to work with my touring boots. The seat is positively dangerous at times. Under heavy braking, especially downhill all your weight is thrown onto your wrists! Having some back lighting in the switch clusters would be a massive improvement for minimal cost.
Good all rounder. Seriously let down by a horendous stock riders saddle.
Surprisingly pokey!
Plastic parts obviously have massive input from their automotive designs.
Gets expensive when you actually do some miles!
Everything except the f*ckin' seat.
Buying experience: Dealer. Advertised 21,499 paid 17k.
Year: 2021
Sensational bike. Great at everything, even commuting unless only tiny filtering spaces. Touring, twisties, two-up, town work: does it all extremely well.Sometimes I wonder what I'd buy if it got stolen. I don't think I could see past another one.However, it is not a 'joyful' bike as such. For proper fun, I have other bikes, which fit that particular category better: lighter, and great sounding, with orgasmic engines. The RT is not orgasmic, or in a very tantric way.
Bar the typical telelever 'crash' over big ruts, nothing whatever to 'complain' about. Combined braking is nice.It's the best all-rounder I've had, by far. Does everything extremely well, even twisties.I don't know what a more comfy bike would be like.
4 out of 5 for a simple reason: the engine is lacking in the sound department. Much better than previous boxers (have owned a 2010 R1200R), but still found wanting, despite the Akrapovic. The 1250 GS sounds better to me, and the NineT produce a great sound. So it's possible.But beyond that, I can't think of a better touring engine: peppy if you want, but also able to be cruised without feeling like you're restraining yourself - the problem I have with the K16, or inline-4 tourers.
Kept indoors. Very resilient: filled it up with diesel by mistake, and after TLC by BMW it was as new. Got tipped and run over by a white van, and was still going. Cold, hot weather: no problem.
Couldn't say. Not cheap to service, but commensurate with cost of the bike and what you get from it. The tank capacity is fabulous.
Adaptive cruise control is grand. 716 seat transforms the look of the bike in my view, for the much better. All the other gizmos are equally impressive and useful: self levelling, tyre pressure monitor, heated seat and grips, capacious topbox, so on and so forth. Amazing machine.
Buying experience: Bought at dealer while living in Prague.
Version: LE
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £350
PROS: Great wind protection, lots of toys; electric screen, stereo, heated grips and seat, cruise control, separate satnav screen, digital dash with traditional dials showing everything you need all at once (no horrid TFT screen).CONS: Halogen headlights not LED, non-adaptive cruise control, a lack of buttons to control the heated grips etc. mirrors are not the best.
Sure footed, even when changing down at speed on bends. Whilst ABS brakes give confidence they are rarely, if ever, needed.
More than enough power and pulls in every gear.
Reliability is good but quality is not what BMW used to be!
After 4 years and 20,000 miles other than service items I have only needed to replaced the battery.
Favourite standard feature - Hill assist (parking brake)Recommended accessories - Stereo, heated grips, cruise control, hill assist, quick changer, additional (GS) mirrors.Not required accessories - Heated seat and fog lights.
Buying experience: Purchased new from dealer and managed a bit of discount on the total price.
Version: Pre TFT Screen
Year: 2020
Like the traditional clocks not the digital one. Dislike should come with matching top box as standard. Would definitely recommend to anyone.
I get back pain but put it down to my jacket with back protection.
Price alters every time due to oil costs etc but labour charges exspencive.
Didn’t like the original tires, but would like a top box as standard
Buying experience: I payed an agreed price rather not say.
Version: SE
Year: 2019
The bike is well equipped. Sat.nav would be nice but too expensive.
The motorised exhaust flap has seized twice in 5000 miles. BMW Motorrad has told me that the bike has already had two replacement header pipes in 11000 miles. BMW know there is an ongoing problem with this and still fit the same system on new bikes. When out of warranty, the cost to replace the header pipes is approx £1500.My next bike won't be BMW.
Not had dealer service since buying the bike.
Buying experience: Non BMW dealer. Good value.
Version: Se
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £240
Lovely bike to ride, size and weight disappears when on the move. Good trick by the bavarians!
Can ride a full tank to empty (300ish miles). Usually stop every hour but can push on its so pleasant to ride. Quite flickable too. Brakes were underwhelming at first. Just need a touch of rear too sometimes
Power getting smoother with each generation. From the air-cooled 2011 triple black gs that used to wobble before driving to the 1250 rt I have now. Loads of grunt and more revs too. Was really nice over the mountain at the tt. Thought I had an issue but it was on the limiter in top on the mountain mile!
Three years and no issues
After getting over purchase costs it gets better. Running in free, 1st service free (agreed on purchase), 2nd £180, 3rd £240 with mot. Not huge, surprising really and I've had new beemers since 2011.
Adjustable screen, heated grips and seats, central locking panniers. My garmin from my first gs works but not linked to the thumb wheel so not as easy to use now. Put a fender extender on to stop road rash on the front of the engine. Metzeler tyres ok, might try different next time
Buying experience: Always got a good deal and fair p/ex price from Chester bmw (now ktm) The Sealand Road bmw (Williams?) did my last service/mot/warranty check. All good so far
Version: Sport
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £3,000
Getting on the RT after selling my K1300S was a revelation in all aspects of motorcycle touring. For context, I live in Cape Town South Africa and tour extensively throughout our borders. The RT is certainly the premier touring bike out there.But then there's the Nav 6, a shameful episode and they never tried to fix it.For those who are shorter in stature the RT has you covered.
Fully loaded the road holding is sublime. The Dynamic Mode is great. But lightly loaded the bike performs better in Road for the dampener and Dynamic for the engine.Even with the lowered seat I can comfortably put is an 8 hour day in the saddle with 4 to 5 stops on the way.The breaks are a little underpowered for my tastes but perform very well in all situations including a torrential downpour. The ABS & ASC are very unobtrusive but perform above expectations.
Being a twin, I expected a fair amount of vibration and was surprised to find only a little vibes at low rpm (<2000) after that all is well. The boxer motor still has that slight rock to the right when you blip the throttle at standstill but it's barely noticeable.The engine is a two-faced masterpiece. Ride gently the engine is a mild torquey cruiser that pulls evenly and steadily up to 120km/h. Grab a big handful of throttle the mild cruiser goes ballistic. I don't know how they managed to smooth out the variable cam system but the only noticeable result is a change in the exhaust note. This somewhere around 4250rpm when driving mildly but when given a handful it seems to rise to around 5000rpm. It also seems to affect lower rpm grunt as with a bit of throttle you can get a shunt on very rapidly out of tighter corners.
I have encountered some aluminum oxidation on the framework behind the front fairing. There has been only one mechanical problem, being the exhaust flapper valve getting stuck. Quickly fixed at my local dealership.But then there's that GPS. Two replaced in first 18 months, and just recently it started the ghosting again. The overall build quality is excellent. No loose panels or fittings. No squeaks or rattles after 34000km. The one slightly irking thing are the panniers, they are heavy even when empty.
Service costs are South African rands.We pay per liter in RSA and over the 3 years of ownership I have averaged 5.7l/100km. My best ever range, before hitting reserve, was 476km. My worst was 212km but that was a very heavy right hand.Overall the cost of ownership over 3 yrs. and 34882km has been R598 242 (approx 35k Sterling)
My bike was fully loaded except for a top box and no radio. The electrically adjustable windscreen is fantastic, it almost eliminates the wind blast from highway speeds and provides pretty good rain protection as well. The panniers are good but waste some internal space, they are also heavy. Avoid the Navigator 6 like the plague.
Buying experience: Purchased the bike through Motorad in RSA. Cost R 291997 (approx 14.5k Sterling). the price paid was as advertised, they don't haggle in RSA
Version: LE Sport
Year: 2022
It's a great Touring bike with 1 major flaw - the rear suspension is waaay to firm in dynamic mode, it's like riding a horse in the Grand National. I had a 1200DVT Multistrada (I sold it to a friend) which is far more composed and it's weird seeing my own bike serenely sailing along in the notoriously bumpy Wicklow mountains and Sally Gap while I imitate Lester Piggott. Ironically, one of my friends in Scotland unknowingly bought exactly the same bike within a week, and we both came to the same conclusion when comparing notes.The shortcuts to frequently used functions are BMW admitting the menu system isn't exactly user friendly - drill down through 3 to reset the trip, anyone?
The brakes are superlative. Ironically the ride in dynamic mode is far better with a pillion, suggesting the rear spring is the culprit. Given I'm 190cm and 110kg there aren't many riders that would make the spring work solo! My Scottish friend is even lighter....
The engine is the star of the show, great power characteristics and the shift-cam is a tour-de-force, reminescent of the difference the DVT made to the original 1200 Multistrada only more so
The quality, fit and finish are top class
It's difficult to answer this, it had a free 1st service and it's not had an annual one yet. It's vey economical and the BMW connected app is a work of art.
Buy one of these and you'll still be finding things you didn't know about when you sell it.....
Buying experience: I bought it new from Keary's in Cork. Top guys and couldn't be more helpful. Great craic into the bargain
Version: Triple black SE
Year: 2022
There are many tourers out there and we all have different tastes but there isn’t a tourer that’s better than an RT only different
When touring for sure. Has a decent turn of speed when required and is no slouch in corners. Luggage capacity is good and a two week tour is easily catered for The limiting factor of how long you can travel is the tank capacity which when 2 up with luggage is at least 270 miles
A joy to ride with the bomb proof boxer engine. The shift cam offers an increase in performance. Very versatile and loads of torque throughout the rev range
Totally reliable (so far) and dependable. Never deliberately ridden in rain but have been caught plenty. Still looks like new. 3 yr guarantee gives you peace of mind
Just coming up to first service and no problems to report
Best feature for me is the boxer engine. Good all round weather protection especially with the large screen. Love the quick shift especially when you’re in a hurry Like the Michelin road 5 tyres I find the instruments and electronic aids all easily selected and easy to use
Buying experience: From Dealer
Version: SE
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £300
Superb 1 up or 2 up tourer. Sublime suspension, 55mpg. Fast for a big bike.
The best ride quality possible, I doubt there is anything out there to beat it. 200 mile posterior range for 2 people.
Shiftcam is a great piece of engineering. Excellent top gear roll on, performance is very good anywhere in the rev range.
no problems so far, 2 years 7K miles
Got a deal when I bought the bike. Compensation for late delivery.
The active suspension is one of the best features. Best accessories are a top box and sat nav. I have also fitted a 7 Jurock screen (larger then standard). This gives Goldwing levels of wind protection.
Buying experience: Dealer bought. Had to haggle but got the deal I wanted after a Mexican stand off. I knew he had to move the euro 4 bike on before the euro 5 model arrived.
Version: R1250RT SE
Year: 2019
Brilliant tourer with sports performance capability. Also one of the very best for carrying pillions passengers. Heavy but weight is low down as does not affect ride,
Ride is just what you would expect from a regular top of listing reviewed bike. Three hours rides without stops are common.
The engine is absolutely fantastic. Unfortunately having to keep magazine reviewers happy has lead to bigger engines and heavier bikes.Not just this make or model) Smaller capacity engines did the same job, a little slower, but with less weight
Top quality with no problem areas.
Cost are as expected for a BMW, however service provided does not always meet the customer expectations.
Pay your money and the list is endless
Buying experience: Some BMW showroom staff require a training course on engaging with potential, and existing customers They spend too much time on their computers, therefore missing out on the “necessary” customer interaction.
Version: RT SE Sports Style Option
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £300
Shame the Navigation had its initial problems - not largely sorted after the upgrade. Bike is comfortable, quick enough and overall pleased we moved to it.
We had an FJR1300 previously, it was sharper and quicker, but the BMW is more comfortable and as quick as needed.
Its got better as the miles go on.
Would have given the Bike 5/5 but when we had the bike in May the Sat Nav was garbage! The latest version installed in November while not perfect is almost there. Gearbox was initially a bit 'clunky' but as the miles went up its go better. Fuel consumption (not that we bought the bike to save money) averages about 55 MPG always two up and not exactly gentle on the bike. Bikes done just over 8k miles and have another few thousand left. Dealer has been good and no problems at all with them. Ordered the Bike with the Low Rider seat, awful! after few hundred miles hurt. Fortunately we also had the standard seat, so had that remanufactured - lowered and with better foam, result much better. Nav upgrade means the function keys and now user programable, which makes more sense and much improved. The main question would we buy another - well yes.
The BMW winter servicing promotion was timed perfectly, When we bought the bike I agreed a deal that the first service would be done for £150. The second service was less than £200 on the discount and they picked it up and collected FOC - thankyou BMW.
The initial problems with the Navigation dented things, else would be a 5
Buying experience: Dealer was fine easy to deal with and faultless. Free quality coffee and biscuits!
Version: LE
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £350
Absolutely love the bike, gearbox is slick, quick shifter is smooth and overall performance is far far better than the outgoing model
Had problems with the navigation. My Phone 11 Would not connect which also meant the headset had issues connecting. BMW issued a software update in Sept and have had no issues since but was frustrating for the first 2 months of ownership
Was an expensive bike to purchase after adding extras like the topbox at an extra £1100 !!
Buying experience: Extremely good, the staff at BMW Park Lane were very professional
Version: LE
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £229
The lightest bike with a stereo, shaft drive, cruise control and a long range (300 miles). Worst features:- 1) Lack of buttons e.g for heated grips. Having to fight through layers of menus via the "wonder-wheel" is a nuisance. 2) Not being able to have the digital speedo showing when using the radio. 3) Non illuminated switchgear. 4) No reverse gear.
Good even delivery of power across the whole range.The Boxer engine is not as smooth as a triple or four cylinder engine.
Favourite feature, Shaft drive.Accessories to add:- Tall screen, foot-lower lowering kit, handle bar risers, front mudguard extender, front engine protector, narrow pannier lids (for commuting), enlarged side stand foot plate, engine bars.
Buying experience: New from dealer, not much discount.
Version: R1250RT LE
Year: 2020
Had the 1200 before (five of em in fact!), the 1200 is a much smoother bike. The 1250 has impressive performance and torque but the engine is noisy and very buzzy at 4k revs upwards. Good weather protection and handles surprisingly well but needs massive counter-steering to keep on line (the OEM PR4GTs are to blame, Contis and Mezlers are better).
Uncomfortable on a long ride for me and the wife, the bike causes massive knee pain for us and the vibration is wearing. Much more so than the 1200. Good on a short ride though (say 100 to 200 miles) provided we stopped to stretch legs. Great weather protection and good heated seats and grips. You can hustle on this bike but you will need to wrestle with it.
Good performance but at a price, compared to the 1200 engine the 1250 is rough, harsh and noisy. It discourages spirited riding.
Delivered over 2 hours late as the front brake callipers needed replacing as they were leaking fluid. Once I was given the bike I was told the callipers would need changing again as the replacement set had poor anodising. It took weeks to get them replaced and I was never sure they did anything after having the bike for a few hours. The callipers looked exactly the same to me. They didn't leak though.The pin supporting the front nearside screen (held in place with a circlip) fell out on tour and I had to replace with a nut and bolt!
I hated the bike so much I got rid of it before its service. I tried to get the dealer to look at the increasingly uncomfortable vibration but IMO they were not interested. It made the decision for me (Bhanstormers). Good MPG though, easily getting 54 mpg.
Weather protection and warm seat. For such a big lump it handles very well.
Buying experience: New from dealer (Bhanstormers), full list less deal on px of my R1200RT I also bought from them.
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £260
Has to be the best 'do all' bike available
600 km days no problem, no complaints from rear seat, and bike handles superbly when you push on.
Shiftcam lump is superb, bags of torque. Only let down by Q shift which can be a bit lumpy.
No issues after 18 months all year/weather riding. Only negative was OEM tyres severely cupped at around 4k.
Bahnstormer collect and return bike FOC
Buying experience: Bought from, and serviced by Bahnstormer Alton. No issues.
Version: LE with ALL the toys
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £234
Highly recommend this bike, all the points, absolutely fully loaded, it has everything 3 riding modes, although I very rarely move it out of road mode, electronic suspension, road for 2up dynamic when solo, topbox with brake light, really bright no excuse for anyone rear ending you, radio, hardly used prefer my headset, keyless, this is great even the fuel cap and steering lock are keyless, central locking, one button all locked up, quick shifter, I struggle to use it going up when 2 up on the bike due to jerkiness from 1 to 2 and 2 to 3 otherwise fine, great going down, hill start assist, those that moan about this are obviously idiots, in to neutral squeeze brake and relax ! best thing since someone put a knife and bread together, heated grips 5 is nuclear 2/3 is nice, but they are brilliant, and seat, takes an eon to warm up but is nice, the bike just handles sublimely who would think it ways 280kg So why 4 out of 5, because perfection doesn't exist but this is damn close What it hasn't got 10.7" TFT, wireless charging for your phone, LED headlight, is it worth paying a couple of £k for those ? In my opinion, no, but hey you pays your money and takes your chances
We only do about a hour then have a break, but could do much longer
enough torque and power for me
£ 234 for first annual service, oil filter and brake fluid
Perhaps could do with a windscreen wiper and the heated seat isn't as powerful as the grips
Buying experience: Bought from a dealer during winter to get it cheaper and I still feel I got I should have got a better deal, but I'm just tight
Version: LE
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £300
Great tourer, i dont think there is a better one out there. Build quality absolutely dire. Dealer support non existant from supplying franchise. Would recommend buying an old one, build quality so much better with non franchise specialists both knowledgeable and helpful.
Rides brilliant, great tourer completely at home 2 up and luggage. Can ride all day ( if it doesn't break down)
Goes well, much smoother than my previous bmw. Some days it just knocks and rattles like its about to blow up.
Absolutely appalling, full of corrosion, started at about 3 months from new. Purchased new in August 2019. So far:- New Engine, gearbox, swinging arm assy, bevel gear housing. Centre stand, side stand. Exhaust front pipes (failed flap valve) twice to date, well known fault! Failed battery (another well known fault, but bmw dont recall) they just wait until you break down. From new, the bike would leap forward when putting into first from rest, dealer said "its normal, they are all like that" stangely after having new gearbox fitted i never had that problem reoccur. Following faults not recognised under warranty Front mudgaurd just disappeared after a ride out (broken lugs remained, just not fitted correctly at manufacture). Wheels corroding at same rate as the rest of the bike. Leather pattern just crumbling off riders seat. Bike kept in dry garage. Two years old, 14000 miles Mostly summer dry riding. Only comment from dealer "I must be riding it on the wrong sort of roads". The dealer made me feel as if i was the only person with these problems and that I was being unreasonable, but having spoken to other owners it appears that my experiences have been fairly typical.
Servicing acceptable Depreciation appaling Cost new £19000 Two years old, now worth £11000
Great wet handling, inspires confidence. Michelin road 5, brilliant tyre. Screen buffets badly in any position, replace with wunderlich item. £1025 for a top box. What!!!!!
Buying experience: BMW Dealer. STRATSTONE wolverhampton. List price List price. IMO, Worst experience i have ever had. Perfect example of dealer taking money and not honouring ANY further responsibility.
Version: SPORT
Year: 2021
The new digital dash IMO does not work properly and BMW know it Its scandalous they launched it knowing its faults I am extremely disappointed in this and it was useless on a holiday to Scotland in June.
Ride quality not as good as GS
Great spread of power and good fuel consumption
See above ref dash
Buying experience: Good dealer
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £500
The only reason I did not give my RT a 5 out of 5 is because of the TFT. The TFT has nothing to do with the ride of the bike but it totally misses the mark on what I was expecting from my brand, first bike sold to a customer in Atlanta, GA. I highly recommend the motorcycle for the ride, looks, engine, brakes, comfort but only ding it for the TFT, I bought mine in February and as of July 2021 it does not work, has work a few times but more often than not it simply has failed me. The system will at times record rides, other times it will not even register as working. I gave up on dealing with it after a month or so.
Truly exceptional bike.. I also ride a 2019 R1250RT-P for work and love the all day ride ability.
More than enough power for me. I also have a K1600GT and I love it but omg you can get into trouble with the K bike, were as you can get in trouble with the RT, but it just feels more suited for everyday riding.
Buying experience: Love BMW financing options.. this is my 9th BMW bike.
Year: 2019
Yes.
Year: 2019
Very agile very comfortable touring bike.
Heated grips, ESA, and Riding Mode Pro are very good................. Shift assist is pain because sometimes its smooth but sometimes not.
Buying experience: Very good
Version: Le
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £200
The one ?
Long time
Exceptional
None
Tyres extra
Capacious top box ,excellent panniers.
Buying experience: Bought from Allan Jefferies,Baildon/ Shipley. Pleasant,amusing experience,Steve was very helpful,yet professional,I am quite driven in my requirements,and they were met.
2021 BMW R1250RT dash
2021 BMW R1250RT controls
2021 BMW R1250RT on the road
2021 BMW R1250RT left side
2021 BMW R1250RT engine
2021 BMW R1250RT brakes
2021 BMW R1250RT screen
2021 BMW R1250RT radar sensor
2021 BMW R1250RT front
2021 BMW R1250RT rear
2021 BMW R1250RT luggage
2021 BMW R1250RT cubby hole
2021 BMW R1250RT right side
2021 BMW R1250RT left turn
2021 BMW R1250RT headlight
2021 BMW R1250RT badge
2021 BMW R1250RT fast access menu buttons
The BMW R1250RT in action
Clear clocks display important information
You can hustle a BMW R1250RT
The BMW R1250RT is ideal for longer journeys
The R1250RT will eat up miles
Complex switchgear controls rider aids
The front suspension unit on a BMW R1250RT
The BMW R1250RT in an urban environment
Radial calipers provide plenty of stopping power
BMW R1250RT logo
Filling up the BMW R1250RT
The 2019-on BMW R1250RT
Shift-cam technology features on the BMW R1250RT
