Motorcycle specifications BMWR 1300 RS 2025 Accelerated tourism

After the announcement of the new R 1300 R, we were waiting for the new RT and RS. I confess I'm not too keen on the pure tourer, which, while its qualities can't be denied, now seems a little too motomobile ... On the other hand, I've always had a keen eye for the RS, a machine as fun in its rigorous Germanic version as it is capable of going fast, far and long.

This new R 1300 RS, version 2025, sublimates the concept more with an in-depth revision of its technical base than a stylistic breakthrough.

" With the new BMW R 1300 RS, we've taken our sport-touring motorcycle with boxer engine to a whole new level. The bike has been consistently designed with dynamic riding in mind. Thanks to an all-new engine, chassis and aerodynamic concept, this model offers an even sportier riding experience than previous generations. At the same time, it remains the ideal companion for comfortable journeys and long-distance travel. " Hauke Glässing, BMW R 1300 RS Project Manager.

Design: gentle evolution of the species

If the appearance of the R 1300 R heralded a new era for the roadster, this RS version remains in the same DNA. At first glance, it's easy to identify a model that doesn't slap the previous model in the face, but rather forms a more modern extension of it. The front end is more sharply sculpted and features the same style of headlamp, but the double headlamp is also more stylized and smaller. The shape of the bubble also contributes to the sensation of having a sportier machine in front of you. It's smaller, more curved. It no longer feels like a flat half windscreen. As for the rear of the bike, it's in the same spirit as the roadster, since the parts are the same. A perfect pairing with the double-decker seat. In fact, in terms of styling, BMW has worked hard on the riding position, according to the press release provided by the Germans.

The ergonomic triangle formed by the handlebars, footrests and seat of the new R 1300 RS has been designed to position the rider further forward on the machine. The footpegs are set back slightly and the handlebars are flatter. This position reflects the model's new philosophy: no longer sitting on the machine, but at one with it. For a more touring-oriented riding position, an optional comfort handlebar is also available. You'll also be able to choose from a wide range of saddle comfort options. Luggage is not forgotten either, with an innovative tank bag that attaches to the fuel filler flap, and 26- and 29-liter side panniers. In my opinion, it's a crime of lèse-majesté on a Sport-GT to give it a 39-liter top case ... Both suitcases and top case feature centralized electric opening and closing. The top case even includes lighting and a USB socket.

To help you see clearly at night, the new R 1300 RS is fitted as standard with a new LED headlamp. The lighting unit consists of two LED elements for low beam and two additional LED elements positioned separately for high beam. Two further LED units are provided for the daytime running light and the side light. The rear light is also LED.

With the optional adaptive bend light, the low beam of the standard full LED headlamp is optimized for bends, depending on the inclination position, by activating additional LED elements. In this way, the bend is almost completely illuminated, as the light moves towards where the motorcycle is heading. By optimizing the light pattern, low-beam headlamps provide even wider, more even illumination of the road.

While electronics can sometimes play an important role in riding, BMW never forgets that on a Sport-GT machine, safety is also an argument. The new R 1300 RS is equipped with a driving assistant with active cruise control (ACC), forward collision warning (FCW), lane departure warning (SWW) and rear collision warning (RECW). If you have an at-fault accident with all this, don't say you weren't warned!

The dashboard features a 6.5-inch TFT color display. It's a full-featured configuration, with all the information you need at your fingertips. It's easy to control from the handlebar-mounted controls, sync a Bluetooth device with it, and go even further with the BMW Motorrad Connected app.

In addition to this screen, BMW offers a holder for a remote device (such as a GPS or phone). For the first time, this holder now features an electric lock to secure the navigation device (or smartphone).

145 hp for a roar of pleasure

The boxer engine of the new BMW R 1300 RS has a displacement of 1,300 cm³ (bore/stroke ratio 106.5 to 73 mm). This increase in displacement is due to an enlarged cylinder bore and a new short-stroke crankshaft. The engine delivers 107 kW (145 hp) (previous generation: 100 kW (136 hp)), still at 7,750 rpm, and maximum torque of 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm (predecessor: 143 Nm at 6,250 rpm). Maximum engine speed is 9,000 rpm.

Three riding modes are included as standard, allowing the bike to adapt to your mood or the road conditions encountered. Pro riding modes with additional "Dynamic" and "Dynamic Pro" modes, as well as riding mode preselection, are available as options. The standard version of the new R 1300 RS features three driving modes: "Rain", "Road" and "Eco".

Engine torque control (MSR) is fitted as standard. It's like a super anti-dribble combined with traction control. This control ensures that the rear wheel does not lock up or spin as a result of the engine's torque effects. In such cases, the MSR instantly opens the throttle so that torque is smoothed out for easier driving.

An option that will delight commuters - those who travel from the outskirts of cities to the urban heartland in the morning - is the optional Automated Shift Assistant (ASA). The automatic gearbox has become a bit of an argument among motorcycle manufacturers of late. It's a mantra that comes back regularly to try and convince motorcyclists...

This engine finds its place in a new case

The chassis of the new BMW R 1300 RS is, of course, the near-twin of the new R 1300 R. The completely redesigned frame is made of steel. It is more compact and rigid than the previous generation. The rear frame has also been completely redesigned. Instead of the previous tubular steel construction, the new R 1300 RS now features a die-cast aluminum rear frame buckle.

Combined with a now much more compact drive unit, the new chassis design has achieved a significant concentration of mass. BMW promises improved handling and greater stability, so you can increase the pace at the handlebars with complete peace of mind. Suspension is provided by a new 47 mm telescopic inverted fork. The Evo Paralever rear suspension is also upgraded, with a more rigid attachment point in the frame. The new R 1300 RS is also equipped with new 17-inch cast aluminum hollow-spoke wheels. In all, they weigh over 1.4 kg less than previous wheels. The reduction in rotating mass translates into both improved acceleration and braking response, as well as optimized handling qualities.

As standard, this chassis features Dynamic ESA electronic damping control. Dynamic Electronic Suspension (DSA) goes one step further, combining dynamic front and rear damping adjustment with corresponding spring rate adjustment ("spring stiffness") - depending on the chosen driving mode, driving conditions and maneuvers. Following on from the new R 1300 R presented a few weeks ago, the new BMW R 1300 RS is the second production motorcycle to feature an inverted telescopic fork that allows spring stiffness to be adjusted. Automatic load compensation is provided by the adjustable spring support.

The new R 1300 RS is fitted as standard with a double-disc brake with two fixed four-piston calipers mounted with radial fixings at the front, and a single-disc brake with two-piston floating caliper at the rear, in combination with BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro. It can be fitted with the optional sport braking system.

The right all-rounder

In an ideal garage, you'd need a traveler for vacations, a cool drag racer to get to work, and then sometimes, when you feel like cracking out a bit, something fun to ride.

This R 1300 RS is a bit of all of the above, and that's what's so great about it! Above all, by giving it a little extra soul, BMW is trying to bring it out of the shadows, which it deserves. Its qualities are undeniable, but they won't be within the reach of everyone, alas...

Vincent Beaucousin - Manufacturer's photos

Key features of the new BMW R 1300 RS:

• Dynamic, sporty design.
• Sporty ergonomics and equipment for dynamic cornering pleasure and comfortable touring and travel.
• Four model variants: Basic, Triple Black, Performance and Option 719 Cuyamaca.
• 2-cylinder boxer engine delivering 107 kW (145 hp) at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm.
• A range of seat variants ensures optimum seat height, while a newly developed luggage system with electrified panniers, topcase and smart tank bag makes the bike ideal for comfortable travel and vacations.
• Three riding modes are included as standard, enabling the bike to adapt ideally to all road conditions.
• Pro riding modes with the additional "Dynamic" and "Dynamic Pro" modes, as well as the optional official factory riding mode preselection.
• Engine drag torque control (MSR) as standard.
• Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) with fully automated clutch and optional manual or automated gear change for an enhanced driving experience.
• All-new chassis with sheet-steel main frame and aluminum rear frame.
• New inverted telescopic fork and revised EVO Paralever rear suspension for even greater handling precision.
• New dynamic electronic suspension control (DSA) available ex-factory, with dynamic damping and spring rate adjustment, plus load compensation. The world's first production motorcycle telescopic fork with adjustable spring rate.