Bmw R 1250 Rt
The Bmw R 1250 Rt has a top speed of 200 km/h (electronically influenced; estimated), produces 136 hp and weighs 279 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The BMW R 1250 RT was introduced in 2019 as the successor to the R 1200 RT, featuring BMW's new ShiftCam variable valve timing technology on the boxer twin engine. It is one of the most successful and long-running sport-touring platforms in motorcycle history, with roots tracing back to the original R 90 S era and the modern RT lineage beginning in 1978. Known for exceptional wind protection, comfort, and advanced electronics, it remains a benchmark in the sport-touring segment favored by long-distance riders and police fleets worldwide.
136 hp
Power
143 Nm
Torque
279 kg
Weight
200 km/h (electronically influenced; estimated)
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approximately 18.2 km/L, typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
ShiftCam Engine Tech
The R 1250 RT uses BMW's ShiftCam variable valve timing system, delivering both strong low-end torque and high-rev power in one boxer engine — a feature rare at this price point.
Watch the Throttle Body
Some owners report throttle body and TFT display software glitches, particularly on early 2019-2020 models — always verify the latest firmware updates have been applied before buying used.
Strong Resale Value
The R 1250 RT consistently holds 70-80% of its value after three years, making it one of the better-retaining touring bikes on the market and a safer long-term investment.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced ShiftCam variable valve timing, 136hp engine, updated TFT display, improved electronics suite.
Revised front fairing design, updated LED lighting, refreshed color options, minor ergonomic and equipment adjustments.
Used Buyer Review
"The best used touring motorcycle money can buy if inspected properly."
$11,000-$18,000 usedThe R 1250 RT is BMW's touring flagship done properly, and buying used makes serious sense here. The ShiftCam engine transformation over the 1200 is real — smoother, stronger pull from idle, noticeably better highway cruising. Look for 2019-onwards if you can, as early units had some throttle-by-wire gremlins that BMW sorted quietly. Check the service history obsessively; these need dealer attention and skipped maintenance shows up fast in the electronics. Tire wear tells you everything about a previous owner's habits. Where it earns its money is covering ground effortlessly. Wind protection is genuinely class-leading, the heated everything works, and the optional dynamic ESA suspension transforms the bike on bad roads. Downsides are real though — it's heavy at 279kg wet, urban riding is a chore, and used examples with high miles often have worn final drive splines that cost serious money to address. Budget £500-800 for a thorough inspection before committing.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Bmw R 1250 Rt — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALCheck open recalls, test idle smoothness at warmup
Cycle through all gears, listen for grinding noises
Pull dipstick, check for blue exhaust smoke
Pump brakes hard, inspect servo for fluid seepage
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid tourer, pricey repairs if neglected
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Bmw R 1250 Rt
Yamaha Fjr1300
Bmw K 1600 Gtl
Yamaha Fjr1300es
Bmw K 1300 Gt
Bmw R 1200 Rt
Compare Bmw R 1250 Rt Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Bmw R 1250 Rt vs Yamaha Fjr1300
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Bmw R 1250 Rt vs Bmw K 1600 Gtl
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Bmw R 1250 Rt vs Yamaha Fjr1300es
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Bmw R 1250 Rt vs Bmw K 1300 Gt
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Bmw R 1250 Rt vs Bmw R 1200 Rt
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Bmw R 1250 Rt? +
Throttle body recall / rough idle stuttering: Check open recalls, test idle smoothness at warmup (moderate) | Shift cam actuator failure, stuck in gear: Cycle through all gears, listen for grinding noises (serious) | Oil consumption higher than expected: Pull dipstick, check for blue exhaust smoke (minor)
Is the Bmw R 1250 Rt a good motorcycle? +
The best used touring motorcycle money can buy if inspected properly. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Long-distance riders prioritising comfort over everything else. Avoid if: You ride mostly cities or tight mountain roads.
What is the horsepower of the Bmw R 1250 Rt? +
The Bmw R 1250 Rt produces 136 hp @ 7,750 rpm, with 143 Nm @ 6,250 rpm of torque. Top speed: 200 km/h (electronically influenced; estimated).
Is the Bmw R 1250 Rt good for beginners? +
Not really — the Bmw R 1250 Rt is better for experienced riders (136 hp can be intimidating). Long-distance riders prioritising comfort over everything else Avoid if: You ride mostly cities or tight mountain roads
Is the Bmw R 1250 Rt reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Bmw R 1250 Rt, notably: Shift cam actuator failure, stuck in gear (Cycle through all gears, listen for grinding noises). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Bmw R 1250 Rt good for daily use? +
Long-distance riders prioritising comfort over everything else Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approximately 18.2 km/L, typical real-world average).
How fast is the Bmw R 1250 Rt? +
The Bmw R 1250 Rt reaches a top speed of 200 km/h (electronically influenced; estimated), producing 136 hp at 279 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Bmw R 1250 Rt? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Bmw R 1250 Rt, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/bmw/r-1250-rt/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
