2020 BMW R1250RT - First Impressions

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Welcome to the boxer club. Once bitten, forever smitten. No matter how many times I stray from boxers, I invariably get back on one. Their power delivery and handling and comfort are just so right for real world riding conditions. I’m now on an RS. Love ‘em

[@andrewdyson4255]

Very interesting video and your thought process. I’m on my forth RT at the moment a. 2023 - 1250. I’ve just returned to the RT having had a K1600 GTLe for just over 2 years. The K was a great bike with a wonderful engine but I just found it too big to manoeuvre at slow speed ie around the garage, or doing a U turn on a narrow road when fully loaded. I therefore didn’t want to use it unless I was doing big miles. The RT does everything the K does but is so much easier to manoeuvre and I’m happy to use it just for a short paddle round on a boring day. You have made a great choice I’m sure you won’t regret it. I’m also interested in your Guzzi special as I’ve fancied one for years as a bit of a toy. I’ll be following you with interest

[@GreenComotion-ei6zw]

The way you contrast buying a new one v. a used one is really refreshing. Cheers.

[@trailingarm63]

Good film, I'm in a similar position to you. After seven years with a BMW R1200R (which I loved but too cold in the winter), I part ex-d it for a navy blue 2019 RT with 3,100 miles. It's fully-loaded including radio (bit of a gimmick, but I wanted to try it). The bike was £12,300 which is half that of a fully-spec'd new one. Super happy with it: extremely comfortable and rapid and I've never felt the need to move the settings out of "road" and "automatic" (suspension adjustment). I don't agree that it "wallows" in "road" - it handles just as well as my R did, and I ride quite quickly (based in North Wales so early morning roads very quiet). I've put MachineArt cylinder head covers on (as I did on the R). I don't use the panniers except for holidays. The quickshifter is only good for competing with cocky AMG and M-Series drivers, too clunky otherwise. Like you I prefer the pre-TFT screen set up, I've fitted a Zumo XT with the Italian adapter plate. I watch Missenden Flyer too, he used to regularly complain about the weight of BMWs, then he buys a Goldwing which is 110 kg heavier - doh! Unlike the Flyer, I'm fifteen-stone with long legs so I don't have an issue with the RT's 279kg. Good luck with it. There aren't many red ones about so I'll look out for you when I'm down your way.

[@melvynbird1215]

I carry my first aid kit and tools behind the speaker covers. Also you can drop the rear mudguard to stop crap going up the back of the bike.

[@waynejenkins3254]

My first BMW was a new 1974 R600 and I loved it before that I had the super fast bikes my BMW wasn’t that fast but man it was beautiful to ride my last one was an RNineT lots of fun and pretty fast too then I got cancer I beat that now I’m trying to build myself up some more and want an R1250RT hopefully pretty soon

[@mars0030]

I like to leave a puncture kit permanently on my bikes, and there isn't much under seat storage on the RT. You can stash some bits inside the side panels, but there is a more useful void where the speakers should be, and the grills come off easily with the splined key in the 'tool kit'. Thats where my kit lives.

[@Mootsen]

Nice to see how much you like to ride the Beemer. I sold my R1200R from 2011 and like to ride the 1250RT. This because the engine is much smoother than the 1200 LC. The only thing is that I have to saven Some money because is is more than I can afford. Bit what the heck…….you only live ones!!!

[@coffeytnmilk]

Yes - the suspension is called tele-lever. It is brilliant and leveling the bike during breaking, as the geometry is connected toward the middle of the bike. Also the rake on this bike actually makes it more nimble than the r1250RS. Cheers

[@gorrdd]

Indeed... the frame where the front forks are attached is hinged to the rest of the engine frame. This allows for increased resistance against the fork tubes when you apply front brake pressure, which in turn suppresses the forks and third suspension tube from compressing as easily. This is what suppresses the fork dive. Also, the front and rear brakes are both linked. Which means when you activate the front brake, the linked system applies some rear brake... and vice versa. Gord

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thanks both. Appreciate the additional information. It’s a great setup - and I love the way it feels no different when you’re carrying a pillion and luggage!

[@gorrdd]

@@CGRidesMotorcycles That's interesting. When I had my 2003 GL1800, I could really feel the passenger at a stop but hardly at all when moving. Gord

[@robertbrooks9687]

good to see you back! looking forward to seeing your next adventure :)

[@lestersmyth692]

Thanks for this informative review, I’m picking up a 2018 R1200 RT (appreciate its not the 1250) next week really looking forward to it. I’ll be looking out for your next update 👍

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Glad you enjoyed it. The R1200 is a fabulous motor! Enjoy the new beast 😁

[@Hogdriver88]

I have the GSA - it’s a great bike but now I’m looking at the RT. You would be surprised how the new version Gold Wing is not very big at all. Nice scenery there, looking forward to the Spain trip 👍

[@jeremynachbar3205]

Nice RT! I dream about those every once in a while. I went with the ‘21 Goldwing DCT Tour. I have grown to love the DCT, with using the triggers to downshift for more engine braking. Apple CarPlay is a HUGE plus for the kind of riding I do. I purchased the extended warranty (8 years total) for $800 from Honda. The bike has become my daily rider. It’s easy and feels light. My only squabble is that I feel turbulence at speeds over 100 mph. I’m beginning to wonder if my windscreen has something to do with it. Overall, I love the Goldwing. It’s easy and comfortable. My wife is very comfortable on the back of it. I have a BMW Racer R9T thats is fun, and much more solid at speeds over 100mph. 🤔 Maybe I need to go look at a RT…

[@Hinckley_Biker]

I watched your video with great interest having just purchased the very same bike! A Mars red RT, 20 plate with less than 6k mls, I was lucky to find one with the BMW topbox, I am waiting for a call from the dealer so i can collect it, I already have a Scotland tour booked for July. I'm looking forward to your upcoming videos 👍

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thank you 😊 It’s a great bike! Enjoy your shiny new machine and the trip 😁

[@InterimExec]

Going thru the same analysis. Agree Wholehartedly. Replacing a totalled 2016 Rt (on a deer at 100kPH).And in the end anything else would be a waypoint. Always wanted an Rt (while owning GS for 13 years). The used one with low mileage are like you indicate amazing value. and the amazing thing is the technology for most part is not that different. Thanks for taking us on a nice country ride the way these bikes should be ridden.And if I'm pipe and slippers at 70 well I earned it....

[@andrewbarnes1851]

Good review I’ve ridden both models, and currently have the facelift model, the absence of the satnav lump, gives an amazing view ahead, you won’t notice that ‘sucking’ effect from putting the screen up as that’s the short and narrow sport screen, I have both but changed to the short screen and other than heavy heavy rain it works brilliantly. I’m definitely in love with the RT and find it is just so good at everything you ask of it. 👍👍😄

[@theheroblob5036]

Hi and welcome to the red RT club! I bought my RT in December 2020 for pretty much all the reasons you mention. I had the upper front fairing painted red (same as rest of bike) by the BMW dealership I bought it from. Looks much better in my humble opinion. The weird suction thing tends to happen with the tall screen. You seem to have the shorter "sport" screen. To be honest I don't really notice the suction thing anymore, and it certainly doesn't detract from what is a genuinely superb motorbike. I've subscribed to your channel as I'm interested to see your upcoming France/Spain tour. I was in that part of the world a couple years ago on the RT and will also be in the Picos again in May/June. All the best, ride safe and enjoy the RT! 👍

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thank you 😊

[@Playtime-e1p]

I’m keeping my California 1400 SE and getting a R1250 RT.

[@FxRiderST]

I recently test rode 2 boxers (1250 GS and 1250 RS same engine as in RT) and after that rode a K1600GTL. Let me tell you, the K is an eye opener. Its engine is like no other. It's not a bike for the so called "character" seekers (read vibration, etc.), but for those who love the performance and fun. It's a little piggy in a 5mph 90 degree turns, but in general, although the boxers are a good bikes, the K is hands down has more of everything.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I’m looking forward to trying one. A friend has recently bought a new one in the lovely Option 719 finish. He has promised me a ride… could be dangerous for my financial health 😁

[@shawngreenwood7288]

I am a road rider and have dreamed of riding such a beautiful bike. Hello from snowy Northern Ontario Canada 🇨🇦. Looking forward to watching your tour of Spain.

[@tonycarpenter-Makzimia]

I’ve learned the hard way to buy good used over new. I did buy the TFT equipped 2021 in a sports blue. Now I’m waiting on my 2020 in red to be prepped at shop. I traded down in age to get myself shod of the fussy TFT that definitely isn’t 100% sorted out even after 3 years of live users. Glad you enjoy yours. RTs are by far the best road tourer out there.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

A friend of mine was showing me the TFT system on his new K1600 the other day... and I'm glad I don't have it!

[@GJS-live]

Did you trade down solely because of the TFT? Was that at a BMW dealer? Didn't think they did that. Interesting. I had the 2021 with TFT but the nav made my head explode. Sticking with my Tom Tom Rider. Cheers.

[@tonycarpenter-Makzimia]

@@GJS-live I traded down, lost money :)

[@richardsmith3963]

Really enjoyed watching this video as I have also just purchased a 2020 RT LE as my 2017 1200 GS was stolen and written off. I love the bike and like you I much prefer the dials to a TFT. I am also lucky enough to live in Devon and love the roads to and around Exmoor. My thought processes leading up to the purchase were the same as yours although the deciding factor was finding a bike (private sale) that was just over 3 years old with only 1,154 miles on it. The price against a new one was also a definite clincher. I'll keep an eye out for you.....I'm off to France in 2 weeks time.....staying in Colmar which sits perfectly between the Vosges and the Black Forest!

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I can often be found riding across Exmoor 😁 Hope you have a lovely trip!

[@mfpix]

Cracking video. I love riding my RT.

[@Cibotx]

Thank you for your review which is one of the more helpful once on yt! Interestingly I’m in a very similar spot. Sold my V85tt but still riding a V7 and we are still looking for a good 2up option. So far the Honda NT1100 is the favorite and we are doing the 1250rt test ride this weekend. I somehow hope it disappoints so we are not tempted to spend the money 😅

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Test rides are always a danger to the wallet! 😁

[@Pyrrho_]

Brakes are partially linked. Front brake lever stops both wheels, whereas rear pedal only activates the rrear.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Good to know 👍

[@duncanelliott5120]

Brilliant review. I have one (2015 model) , and will be upgrading again to the same model, not the new one , for all the reasons you mention. Many thanks.

[@hansc8433]

I traded in a 2020 S1000XR for an RT (2021) a couple of weeks ago and I love it. I used to own one in 2015, but this one’s the bee’s knees. So smooth, love the torque, the adaptive cc. Going on a trip to Sweden and Norway next week! Really looking forward to spending days in the saddle :)

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I've always wanted to ride in Scandinavia! Not jealous at all 😁 Have a fantastic trip!

[@StuartWebb]

Great Review, what is the camera mounting extension you have on your left handlebar called? And where does it come from please? That would work great on my existing 2011 RT, and a newer one if I replace it... thanks.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I have a video review coming on that. I got mine from eBay, but I don’t think it had a specific brand name. If you search for handlebar mount for RT, you should find it in the results.

[@cpuuk]

Buy a newish bike with 8K on the clock, because by then any problems will have been fixed and it's proper run-in. Did you consider the new V100?

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I was going to buy the V100 to replace my V85, but I decided to go back to BMW for my main bike. Buying used is a good shout 👍🏻

[@johnmacdonald1878]

Interesting, BMW used benefits. I ride a 2017 1200 GS which I bought used a couple of years ago. I took the risk of no warranty. Even so been very happy with it. I'd like to by a bike in the UK to do some touring. I like the GS and getting it a bit dirty. A used RT might be a option.

[@BunyipToldMe]

You bought the RT unseen? Yikes! Could you send it back if it was scratched or whatever? Most importantly, did you haggle? Great video as usual and I hope the Guzzi's warning light is still off!

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Yes, it comes under distance selling regulations in the UK. In some ways, it’s better because you have plenty of time to check it over without feeling pressured or being distracted by the sales rep. I got sent some very detailed videos and pics too. Yes, the warning light is still off 🎉😁

[@johnmatheson7414]

Hi i enjoyed your vid, I have just got the 2021( new model) rt approved used from bmw in Glasgow and I'm very happy with it! I also owned a k1600 gt which I traded for a 2020 Goldwing Bagger DCT which i am extremely happy with! The GW is easier to handle than the RT ,although heavier the low center of gravity and the creep forward/reverse make so much easier! It's a keeper. I use the GW for my trips around Scotland and plan to use the RT for longer trips. If you get a chance of a test ride of the GW DCT bagger (much cheaper than the tour model) I think you and your Misses would love it! Oh and I am just about to subscribe 😉

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thanks 😊 That's good to know. I will certainly try a 'Wing at some point. We're hoping to do a lot more touring together on the RT this year, and I have another trip to Spain in April. It is fantastic for all day riding.

[@Moto_APT]

Hi Dayv CG Rides, This is the best and most honest review of the RT I have seen in a long time. I have a 2019 model and like yours its the pre-TFT twin cam version. I too think that the dials suit this bike much better than the 'stuck-on' TFT screen, though I am lucky enough to have the GS and the TFT is great on that bike, especially as I couldn't read the dials any more. Anyway the handling and comfort of the RT has started to make it my 'go-to' bike in the garage, and yes for me it was mainly for two up touring (replaced my trusty ST1100). I fitted both sets of crash bars (upper and end engine) as it really sets the bike off. I will certainly check out more of your videos. Cheers Arthur P (Wolfie Mk.2)

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Hi Arthur, and thank you 😊 Do you notice the additional weight of the crash bars?

[@Moto_APT]

​@@CGRidesMotorcycles Not at all, and I had the bike for nearly 2 years before fitting them. The uppers are a real nightmare to fit though, and it makes putting the side panels back on a little tougher after servicing. Though my local BMW dealer hasn't complained. The engine bars are easy to fit.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

@@Moto_APT good to know - thank you.

[@TallyHoTech]

I swelled up when this video dropped. Dangerous Dave and the Hipster Machine still keeps his Hipster Cred with the V7. Nice choice. I would like to know in the review. If your touring 2up with the Mrs. if it’s any good if you throw the leg over and exercise the option? Also when solo if you have to knock the top off of it? In the review I would love to know what were your thoughts of getting this over a Adventure Bike. I’m thinking of buying something along these lines

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

😂 I will try to answer these important concerns.

[@roy.actual]

Thanks for the information and tour.

[@LanceChee]

Can you share the info on the GoPro mount that connects to the handlebar cavity? Ive not seen this mount option before. Thanks.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Yep - video going up next week on that 👍🏻

[@stephenhasted3083]

Great down to earth review 👍

[@lauriebloggs8391]

Very helpful, thank you.

[@WatermarquePaul]

Interesting review, share most of your views having bought a 2021 version recently (the actual one TMF tested coincidentally as you mentioned him). I don’t find cleaning so bad to be fair not compared to something like the GS anyway. For two up comfort they are hard to beat, tested last summer on a trip Amalfi. My 2015 model had the suction effect but I don’t notice on the 2021, you do get a slight whistle though. I fitted the Wunderlich engine protectors to mine, won’t help much in a crash I guess but offer drop protection and look very good. Interested to see your results on black plastic cleaning products. Best thing on the 2021 model is the integrated Sat Nav for me, works really well (now) with phone integration and free Bmw world maps. Finally a good call on the Millau viaduct, I’m doing the reverse trip in August/September via Catalunya MotoGP.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thanks for sharing and have a great trip! Just got back from mine yesterday. Millau was stunning!

[@vzmax]

La RT est la reine de la route ! ✌

[@dungbeetle.]

OK. You had me going there for a minute. Reading the thumbnail I thought, "No, surely not the V7!" (I've got the same bike, same colour). Especially now the engine warning light is sorted. Don't you ever do that again! p.s. Nice bike. 👍

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

😁 I’ll be hanging onto the V7 for a while yet!

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

A very detailed first impressions review. I am also 6ft 1 and I rode this bike. In fact it was the 2023, that you are comparing it with. It is exactly just like you mentioned, those buttons on the left are adjustable and you are able to control anything from there. I am following Missenden. A really cool guy and he has a wonderful channel. I agree with your thoughts about the RT. Just like all machines it has PROs and CONs. You can check my video about it. Drop by. :) Thanks for sharing this one. Just subscribed.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thanks - will check out your vid, and have subbed also 👍🏻

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@CGRidesMotorcycles Thanks a lot mate.

[@bubbamc119]

I recognised your voice from your other channel. Subscribed to this one now too.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

😁 thank you!

[@henrietn]

Aren't you gonna miss the v85tt? It still gives me the thrills when going through the bends.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I enjoyed it a lot, but I’m not missing it yet. I think I was ready for something new… and I still have the V7. You are right though, the V85TT is a great handling bike and proper fun on a twisty road!

[@Thunder_Bear_mg]

The only BMW i'd buy is an airhead. Very simple machines to work on. Modern BMW motorcycles are complicated and not easy to work on. I bet under those fairings its a mess of wires and tubes. .... how long does it take to even switch out the battery or air-filter...

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

I can't say for the air filter, but I've had the battery out, which took about 5 minutes.

[@philipfisher4244]

Just found your channel - I'm looking fo the exact same bike - I have of course subcribed.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Thank you 😊

[@alexevers9309]

🇳🇱👍Nice video , i own a 2013 DOHC now for a Month, 10 years ago i had a GS.

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Nice 👍

[@MikeSouthby-e7x]

You’re most welcome to take the K16 out for a few hours and do a comparison review if you fancy…

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

Very kind of you buddy. Would like to do that some time, and get your thoughts on the RT.

[@Hemlck]

The peak will probably come off the helmet. Will look better on the RT then👍

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

It is removable, but I have to say it was great on my tour for keeping the sun out of my eyes, so I’m keeping it on and I don’t care if it looks silly 😂

[@dennisthemenace1773]

I prefer my 2023 Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello “S” !

[@CGRidesMotorcycles]

How is it?