This large-capacity luxury tourer superseded the R1150 RT in 2005 and has since received numerous awards from critics for its savvy engineering and class-leading design. The patented BMW twin-cylinder boxer engine has a low centre of gravity that works with the Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear strut to deliver a nimble and precise ride that belies the R1200RT’s mass. Its substantial bodywork provides great protection for highway riding and, despite some recalls, this machine continues to win fans.
What it’s got
The BMW R1200RT is powered by an air and liquid-cooled, 1170cc, horizontally opposed, DOHC, twin-cylinder, fuel-injected, four-stroke engine with four valves per cylinder. Power runs through a six-speed constant-mesh gearbox. The front suspension is a 37mm BMW Motorrad Telelever with 120mm of travel. The rear swingarm is a BMW Motorrad Paralever with 135mm of travel and is adjustable for preload and rebound damping. ABS-assisted braking is handled by two 320mm discs on the front wheel clamped by four-piston calipers, and a 265mm disc at the rear clamped by a two-piston caliper. The fuel tank holds 25 litres.
Geometry
Frame: Tubular steel. Rake: 26.2°.
Trail: 116mm. Wheelbase: 1485mm.
Seat height: 805-825mm. Weight: 221kg (dry).
Wheels: five-split-spoke cast (17-inch front
and rear).
Performance
Power: 92kW @ 7750rpm
Torque: 125Nm @ 6500rpm
Compression ratio: 12.5:1
Bore and stroke: 101mm x 73mm
Fuel consumption: 5.3L/100km
Price
$30,790 (+ ORC)
