BMW R1300 RS and RT Models Get New Engine and Chassis

As expected, BMW has unveiled its new R1300 touring models with both the RS and RT getting the new boxer engine found aboard the R1300 R that was launched a couple of weeks ago.

But that’s not all as both models have also benefited from a new chassis and aerodynamics in what is a seismic update.

Starting with the R1300 RS, it is the more sporty tourer out of the two models and it has been given refined technology and design, as well as a “more dynamic riding experience”, according to BMW.

The two-cylinder boxer engine in the new BMW R1300 RS features an exact displacement of 1300cc (same as the R1300 R) while the bore and stroke is now set at 106.5 to 73mm, replacing the outgoing model’s 102.5 to 76mm ratio.

The new engine delivers 143bhp at 7750rpm which is 9bhp more than its predecessor and it produces a maximum torque of 110IB ft at 6500rpm, which makes it the most powerful boxer engine to date.

In standard trim, the new R1300 RS has three riding modes for riders to toggle between, which are ‘Rain’, ‘Road’ and ‘Eco’. On request the new RS model can also be fitted with a  “Riding Modes Pro” optional system which comprises additional riding modes such as ‘Dynamic’ and ‘Dynamic Pro’.

A performance variant is available and this includes a more sporty suspension, short hand levers, milled and adjustable footrests, DTC-Shift, two additional sport screens, sport seat, engine spoiler and sport tyres.

The chassis of the new BMW R1300 RS has been completely redesigned and it has moved away from the tubular frame in favour of a new sheet metal main frame made of steel, which is also aboard the R1300 R. The R1300 RS now has a rear frame made of die-cast aluminium to boot.

The suspension set-up aboard the sports tourer is handled by a new upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 47mm. At the rear is BMW’s Evo Paralever which offers a stiffer connection via the suspension in the frame and a continuous swinging arm quick-release axle.

The new R1300 RS also features new 17-inch aluminium cast wheels with hollow-spoke design. That has resulted in a 1.4kg weight reduction.

The new R1300 RS comes as standard with a twin disc brake featuring two radially mounted four-piston fixed callipers at the front and a single disc brake with a two-piston floating calliper at the rear.

The new BMW R 1300 RS can be fitted with the sport brake system as optional equipment. In addition to a sportier look with titanium-coloured brake callipers, it offers a slight increase in braking performance.

The bike features cornering ABS and can be equipped with the Riding Assistant which comes with Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Change Warning (SWW) and Front Collision Warning (FCW).

In addition to the basic version in Racing Blue metallic, the new BMW R1300 RS is also available as the Triple Black model variant in Blackstorm metallic, the sport-orientated Performance variant in Lightwhite uni, and the premium 719 Cuyamaca variant in Brooklyn Grey metallic.

For the R1300 RT, not much is to be added as it's incredibly similar to the R1300 RS as it gets the same engine, chassis and riding assistant modes, among other areas of the bikes that are the same.

The R1300 RT benefits from the Telelever Evo set-up that’s also found aboard the R1300 GS model. Clamped tightly to the fork tubes the Telelever Evo system isolates the handlebars from the suspension to a greater degree than before, so suspension movements don’t corrupt the steering.

The R1300 RT comes fitted as standard with a 10.25-inch TFT colour screen that includes integrated map navigation and a newly-developed Connectivity Hub.

In addition to the basic version in Alpine White 3, the new BMW R 1300 RT is available in the Triple Black model variant in Blackstorm metallic, the Racing Blue metallic and 719 Camargue in Blue Ridge Mountain metallic.

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