BMW R1200RT Motorcycle

Previous BMW RT Models - 1970s to 2004

BMW Motorrad began manufacturing "RT" ((Reise-Tourer, or "travel tourer") touring motorcycle models in the late 1970s. The first of these were "airhead" models that continued BMW's long tradition dating to 1923 of producing "boxer" or opposed-twin engined motorcycles with unit engine-transmission construction and shaft final drive. A change occurred, however, in 1995 when BMW produced its first "oilhead" RT, the R1100RT. The new machine included oil-cooling, standard ABS brakes, four-valve heads, 5 speed gearbox, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension, and an electrically adjustable screen.

In 2002, BMW launched the R1150RT motorcycle, providing the same basic platform with increased engine capacity and horsepower, fully linked, power-assisted ABS brakes, revised front lighting system and a 6 speed gearbox. This model was further updated in 2004 by the addition of two spark plugs per cylinder.

BMW R1200 RT - 2005 to Present

The latest version of the RT series arrived in 2005 with the introduction of the R1200RT. The design of this model is completely different from the R1150RT with a 15% boost in power, 20 kg (44 lb) weight saving, optional electronically adjustable suspension (ESA) and on-board computer. A low seat and/or a lowered suspension are available for shorter riders reducing seat height to a lowest level of 820 mm (32.3 in), although the lowered suspension eliminates the ESA option. The standard electrically operated windscreen can be adjusted across a large range of heights. The servo powered ABS brakes on the 2005 and 2006 models are partially integrated such that the rear brake pedal only applies the rear brake while the front brake lever applies both brakes.

For the 2007 model year, servo assist has been removed from the partially integrated brakes. The new, more advanced ABS system is lighter and has been produced by Continental Teves, who also produce the optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC). An electronic tire pressure monitor (TPM) was introduced as an option. During the production of the 2006 models the original two-tone horns were replaced by a single-tone horn. Other optional equipment includes cruise control, heated grips, heated seats for both the rider and passenger, and a CD/Radio audio system.

The BMW motorcycling community has dubbed the 1200cc version of the RT and BMWs with the same or similar engines as "hexhead" models, so named because of the shape of their valve covers compared to the oval shape of oilhead models.

With 110 hp (82 kW) and 85 lb·ft (115 N·m) of torque, the R1200RT is suitable for long-distance touring carrying a rider and passenger and a full load of luggage; and is able to reach 135 mph (220 km/h) and do a standing quarter mile in 12.2 seconds.

» R1200RT specifications

» R1200RT special models, reviews and awards

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