Ultimate Luxury | 8 Incredible Features of the BMW R1250RT

[@BigRockMoto]

Stay tuned for the full review of the amazing R1250RT. Would you buy an R1250RT for touring, or something else? Do you think these are great features, or just overkill? 🏍TODAY’S GEAR: ⚡ Sedici Marco 2: imp.i104546.net/3ePnAk ⚡ Schuberth C3 Pro : imp.i104546.net/ZQrND1 ⚡ Alpinestars SMX Street: imp.i104546.net/2rz6YM ⚡ Mosko Moto Wildcat 8L Backpack: bit.ly/3OiE5Ss 🏍BEHIND THE SCENES / DISCORD SERVER / CHAT WITH ME! ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia 🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING MY AFFILIATE LINKS! ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@DukeJohnny]

My top pick right now is the Tiger 1200 GT Pro/Explorer because it weighs a bit less (I'm transitioning from a 750 bike) thus allowing for a bit more versatility but now I'm wondering... can't wait for the full review!

[@александрпапуга]

I’m 2021 RT owner and I totally agree with you, except brakes. I would like to have more powerful and crisp brakes, especially when I ride with my wife. But I have Hayes brakes installed. All the rest is awesome and you forgot to tell about fuel mileage. This bike is very efficient. I usually spend 5-5,5 liters per 100 km and i am not really slow, one day i was riding with neighbors and they are slow, so i had 4,7 liters consumption for such big bike!

[@georgedoolittle7574]

Best sport tourer ever made I'd go there

[@gabrieletacconi8914]

Great review, thanks Ian, I consider boxer engine the safest to ride, It protects legs better than any other bike if you hit a car and if you slide on the road falling down…it happend to me and I was not trapped under the bike. I own a 1250gs and I also love the hill assist feature…while taking a photo or checking phone or setting something on the bike you have free hands and legs and you’re not bothered by pulling any brake. Cheers from Italy!

[@nwbasson]

I'd buy the Tracer and have nearly enough money for a Ténéré as well

[@seanchildress3137]

I rode the police version for about eight years as an officer in Central Texas. These units were put through hell and kept going, made many contacts on IH35. Excellent motorcycle in most weather conditions.

[@seandeterman2499]

I watch an unhealthy amount of KZbin, and specifically an unhealthy amount of automotive and motorcycle content. I just gotta say, you're my favorite motorcycle reviewer by far. Keep doing what you're doing, it's great. Thanks ✌️

[@andycotterill9551]

Same 😂

[@dkonno18]

Same here 😂

[@blackbuttecruizr]

Ditto on unhealthy amounts of YT videos!

[@BlackBirdieGolf]

I just bought one and I never road a motorcycle before. It's amazing!!!

[@rlobosco1]

I have this bike (2022) and it’s everything he said…and more. It really does handle that well. As to the radar cruise control - I agree that a motorcycle rider should never sit in a fixed position behind a car for a prolonged period - but to his point, it’s not to be used as a default mode of riding - it’s to reduce fatigue on long rides. This bike is designed for touring, and all-day riding can be draining (fatigue is very dangerous) - this helps recharge energy and should only be used for that purpose and for limited periods.

[@drew6116]

that needed saying , thank you~!

[@lostsledder]

3 second gap, you know some jack wagon is going to pull in there. and if the cruise is set at 82 I want to go 82. He is in the center lane, lanes on both sides are moving by at a prtty good rate. Not a safe situation IMO. I had adaptive cruise on my truck and hated it - most worthless feature ever.

[@kn58]

I had this bike for a year and absolutely loved it however it struggles on slightly loose surfaces or on uneven mountain passes. It’s a beast on tarmac though

[@BlazinBlades]

Unlike many reviewers who would opt to say something like: “The RT can definitely be considered as one of the top large displacement twin cylinder sport tourers on the market today…” 😂😂 Ian says it outright: “This is the best Touring motorcycle in the world!!!” This is why we love you Ian One could agree or not but no one can deny your Integrity 🥃 Thank You Sir 👏👏👏

[@MLoms]

So true. Your integrity Ian, gives me a possibility to decide for myself.

[@Porsche996driver]

Yeah Ian is a good engineer and states his experience and beliefs. Like linked braking which I take for granted on the streets with my GS. There’s also a lot of value with a much lighter weight touring bike.

[@davidruggles996]

Great video Ian! I recently did a skills class/track day. One of my classmates was on the previous generation of this bike. I witnessed firsthand the massive performance envelope of this bike. Everything from low-speed gymkhana work to tire-blistering lap times. It has SO much more than most riders can use and WAY more than is usable on public roads. 😮

[@BigRockMoto]

That is awesome!

[@illiyakuryakin3092]

Totally agree with you. I have a 2022 Racing Blue RT and appreciate all it’s features. The ONLY thing I would prefer is less weight, but once moving one does not feel it, and I realize there are bikes that are much heavier.

[@elonmust7470]

It has less than 140 hp & weighs over 600 lbs. If you think it's fast, then you don't know what a fast motorcycle is.....

[@illiyakuryakin3092]

@@elonmust7470 Pardon me for expressing my opinion.

[@elonmust7470]

@@illiyakuryakin3092 Ditto I guess.........

[@Intrepid175a]

I've got a 2013 R1200RT, the last of the air/oil cooled boxer engines. There is so much of what you describe on the 1250 that applies to my 1200. The windshield, brakes, adjustable suspension, etc. Of course, the electronics controlling all that is far better than on my bike but I have to say, my R1200RT is by far the best touring bike I've owned. It's the first bike I've owned that, like you pointed out, I can ride in total calm. I've owned a Goldwing, a Harley Ultra Classic, ST1100, and a 1983 R80RT and none of them came close to my R1200 in terms of wind protection, even after multiple windshield mods. I'd love to update to the 1250 but that's not an option right now. Maybe some day. Then again, my 1200 is still going strong so I have no real reason to spend the money.

[@billcumbie2620]

Just watched this episode again. Very well done. Thank you.

[@rickdeskis]

I am the original owner of a 09 Kawasaki Concours 14. It has been great. My bike is old school with no tech. I generally keep vehicles for a very long time. I like the RT but wonder how well all that tech will weather once out of warranty. Thank you for the review. Your content is excellent.

[@steveh7108]

Even under warranty you still have to find a dealer when something goes wrong with that Tech. And BMW is the worst as far as a good dealer Network. You won't often find yourself well over 100 miles from any dealer. Even my 2013 k1600 GTL was a great bike but you had to go to a dealer just to turn off the engine light after you change the oil yourself. I still think BMWs are some of the greatest riding bikes there is, but they also had some of the most recalls of any motorcycle out there. And without a decent dealer Network, it can be a major headache.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing!

[@weirdshibainu]

@@steveh7108 I guess it depends on the dealer. Our local BMW dealer is great. I was surprised to find our local Honda deal wasn't.

[@Ride2Vibe]

Ove rhere in the netherlands we are never far from a dealer. Mine is only 5 min away

[@kenneth61]

Thats a philosophy question. There is no choice on newer bike, everything is computerised. On my 2015 RT you can connect your mobile but on my older 2004 Ducati ST3 it´s completely locked. So shall we go back to carburated bikes? Some do and I understand that.

[@ehehbwucee]

It is the handling of these bikes that make them so great. When you sit in the saddle for a while, you never get sick of the buzz when you hit the twisties. The modes are well chosen and as Ian says, this is the best tourer. Not an off road machine by any means but if most of your travels are highway oriented, what a great balance between comfort and performance. Another good review....

[@BigRockMoto]

Right on!

[@MRGS48]

No wonder why Police here in Tucson area at least ride em like they stole em!!🤣🤣🤣

[@Porsche996driver]

It’s like getting in an M5 or something. They just go and keep going at legit Autobahn speeds.

[@a.k1311]

Not only in Tuscon, also here in the Netherlands ..

[@MRGS48]

@@a.k1311 hahaha so Police officers are crazy everywhere huhh?🤣🤣🤣

[@francoispellerin7633]

😂

[@TwoHawksHunting]

LAPD uses BMW Motorcycles as well. The CHP used to use them, but I don't know if they still use them. 17:50

[@user-hb6ms3mb4t]

Great to see you testing non-ADV bikes Ian and applying your characteristic analysis - more of the same pls! I swapped my ‘23 GSA for this. Much prefer the dynamics and front-end feel of the shorter wheelbase and 17” wheel. I am tall with 36” inside leg. Yes the knees are a bit more bent but I’ll take that all day. Also mitigated by the high seat option which I have. Weather protection is vastly superior too allowing more months riding p/a. If you don’t go off road this really is the most comprehensive do it all bike money can buy. Best. G.

[@BigRockMoto]

Well said

[@theaustralianconundrum]

BMW motorcycles are on a par with their automobiles. Over priced under engineered poorly assembled money sponges. Absolute no no! Almost as bad as Aprilia or Ducati. @@BigRockMoto

[@user-hb6ms3mb4t]

@@theaustralianconundrumunsubstantiated BS.

[@tomelder2358]

I'm on my forth RT. Zero complaints. One must keep up the factory maintenance, but other than to cheap out, why wouldn't you do that? I love my 2023 RT and wouldn't move to anything else and that's after 5 "big bike" Harleys. By the way, what do you ride currently?

[@nathangrant104]

​@@theaustralianconundrum BMW does have problems with some of these bikes, such as the faulty shaft drive recall, but they also have great model years and a well maintained BMW RT can easily hit 150,000-200,000 miles. Try that on a Harley. I'm riding a 2011 R1200 RT that's much lighter than the 1250 because it's still air/oil cooled and it's super-reliable and easy to wrench on.

[@fleuger99]

Great information vid. I have a 2019 R1250RT, it doesn't have the adaptive cruise but has everything else mentioned. This bike is so much fun to ride whether its on a long distance trip or out riding with a friend on Sunday. Performance is awesome and it sounds awesome when its being revved out. It also doesn't feel like a 600lb bike and handles very well. I do an annual long distance trip and this bike is perfect for that. I will say one needs to replace the stock seat as after 150 miles I HAD to get off the bike as my butt was hurting. I bought a custom seat from Sargent Seats and it transformed the bike's comfort. I highly recommend it if you buy this bike. The only negative for me, is the ever increasing and high cost of maintenance at the dealerships. Service intervals are every 6K miles. The smaller services at 6K mile (18K etc.)intervals are now up to $430 and this is just an engine oil and filter change and inspections. The large service at every 12K miles (24K miles etc.) is now up to $1040 which in my opinion is a total rip off. I drive a MB E450 wagon with a 6 cylinder twin turbo engine and the large services for that are only about $879. No idea how my twin cylinder BMW bike costs more to service than my MB wagon.

[@siegfriedbarfuss9379]

Great review. Fun to watch and super competent driving footage. Keep up the good rides!

[@lyndonohue3350]

Great review. The RT is the most nimble touring bike available. The 1250 boxer is proven, reliable is surprisingly fast, and smooth.

[@DaleFrazellNewConstruction]

Great Video! Thanks for all the useful info..

[@johnathonme]

Your videos are addictive!! This video captured all the favorite aspects of my RT, only thing worth adding is that having your windscreen up full height impacts engine performance and therefore increaes fuel consumption because of the significant extra drag. I use the electric windscreen raised mostly behind big fast moving trucks giving off lots of dirty unstable air or when its raining but most of the time mine is seldom up more than 30%. And keyless luggage = +500%, omggg best feature ever when in the city commuting or running errands etc!!

[@lukefish7562]

Always a pleasure learning something from ya Ian. What an unbelievable bike that I can definitely see in my future. Very impressive and well done as always. 🏍️💨

[@FrankC656]

I love the ADV dual sport bikes, but it’s also great to have your take on a motorcycle like this. Well done!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks! 👍

[@maxflight777]

Yep you need this and a light weight dirt bike and an ADV bike ! 3 bike minimum

[@squid148]

I have a 22 and love it. One of the things that I like is the wind protection that it provides. Some even complain that it’s too much.

[@zoomzoommo]

@@maxflight777 Which is why I have an RT, 890 Adv, and a plated KLX300.

[@fallinginthed33p]

​@@squid148How hot do you get in the summer with no airflow behind that screen?

[@stevenkelby2169]

I test rode one, almost perfect. Great review! Keep up the great work 👍 🍻

[@Bird111648]

To me BMW motorcycles have always had the best ride of any motorbike I have ever rode

[@all8849]

Great review Ian! I have the 2022 RT and I absolutely love it. Its an expensive bike but you get what you pay for in this case. Its my first bike with the tele lever suspension and I am quite impressed. The bike feels very stable with little to no front dive even under heavy breaking. I was looking for a motorcycle with good power, handling and wind protection. I do about 60% twisties and 40% highway and The RT fits all my needs. I thought the electric windshield was a bit gimmicky at first but now would have a hard time going without. I could say the same for many of the features on this bike.

[@fentontaylor9021]

I agree with you on all points, especially the handling. I own a 2023 RT and ride every Sunday up in the Malibu hills with a couple of friends who ride Panigales. This bike handles like a beast. I ride with the panniers off to save weight and to filter easier and its taken me a few months to really trust it, but I can ride it pretty fast. Its a little heavy, but so comfortable on the freeway to and from the hills. The two main competitors are the BMW S1000 XR and the Ducati Multistrada V4 (particularly the Pikes Peak), but I chose the RT in case I do want to travel. I will just throw the bags on and fill the tank and go. Looking forward to your full review.

[@BuffaloWolf]

"Outstanding, Sir."

[@adv_jaco7883]

Have a 14' RT. Absolutely amazing. Just two recommendations, run the front tire at 39-40 psi (recommended is 36 I believe) and always in dynamic mode. My2c. Great to see you trying a touring bike!

[@jorobson1]

Great quick snap shot. I have a 2019 RT and just love riding it. It really shines two up........our choice of weapon for riding the European alps ! Bring on the R1300RT 🙂

[@akapar]

i own a BMW K1600 GT and it has all features of RT. Key differences are adaptive Cruise control, boxer engine and weight. K1600 comes with more power and reverse gear. Quick shifter, BMW Connected app also works great on these bikes, i would also consider these as big plus for these bikes.

[@fuze59]

I own the 2022 RT and just finished a 6000km bike trip on it. The review is bang on. Absolutely love the adaptive cruise control. Game changer. I have it fully loaded riding 2 up and the electronic auto adjusting suspension is much appreciated. To be honest my only critiques would be that it would be nice to have reverse. When it's fully loaded up reversing can be tough. When it's just me and no luggage it's no problem. Also the BMW navigation system is not quite as good as Google maps and has screwed me a couple times. But I do love having the nav integrated into the display. Besides that it's perfect. Love the power and performance. Absolute joy to ride. I don't see myself trading my RT in anytime soon.

[@user-hb6ms3mb4t]

Agree with that my friend. As an owner, a reverse gear would be good. 2025?

[@fuze59]

@user-hb6ms3mb4t Yes for sure. It's definitely not a deal breaker but just would be a nice to have. Especially when bike is fully loaded up. For now the wife pushing the bike back is the reverse gear 😆

[@danderegil]

Wow, I think the thing that amazed me the most is how flawlessly the bike handles twisties 😲. Great job as usual, man. Have a great weekend!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks again!

[@mcross320]

I love the engine braking in the twisties. When riding alone, I can pretty much gauge the corners without much breaking and jusy roll the throttle back and forth.

[@2404Pepe]

I've just got my third RT and is the most incredible bike ever!!! Thanks, great video!!!

[@robleach1335]

Just returned from a 5000km 2 week tour of British Columbia on rented R1250RTs. Never rode one before but what a bike. It was solid, powerful and comfortable. Totally at home in the mountains. Not allowed on gravel but plenty roads available.

[@kilocyclist]

The 1st place finisher at this year's Iron Butt Rally was on an RT, so speaks well of it's ability to do big miles. (and 4 of the other top 10 were on GS's).

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

I had this BMW (1200 RT) and the Triumph Trophy on my short list in 2017. I ended up with the Triumph. It had all the same features and was almost $8000 CDN$ less with the same features. The 1250 RT fixed the issues of the deficient power in the BMW. With the left over $$ I bought a 2 axle motorcycle trailer. My Trophy has been bullet proof, but valve inspection is very expensive $2000 CDN… BMW build a lovely bike and if I was to buy a newer sport tourer it would definitively be this model. Not really an adventure bike guy. For long touring these touring bikes are more comfortable, especially when the weather turns sour.

[@papadougpapadougsadventures]

My friend has the 2023 RT and loves it

[@billsmith5069]

excellent video of my favorite bike of ALL time!

[@Slowcalcones]

The RT really is such a great bike. So many features. It rides through mountain roads like a sport bike. Can do 16 foot u turns and it feels very nimble at low speed as well. You really don't feel like you're riding a large touring motorcycle. It is such a well rounded bike that's built to put down some miles but has such a surprising fun factor too.

[@HDB112]

Agree completely. However for me (commuter) the 1200RT was not nimble enough for commuting in heavy traffic. Ended up with a 800GS.

[@sharkzf6]

I just purchased one of these Friday! It is absolutely the best motorcycle I have ever owned and that says a lot. Been riding since 1979! Thanks to your video I learned how great it really is. The dealer didn't do such a good job explaining all the things you do in the video. Thank you! 😎

[@BigRockMoto]

Great to hear!

[@oclv110sl]

I'm picking one of these up on Friday in Triple Black. Its not got the ACC but thats a plus point IMHO, I dont think motorcycles should be built with tech that detracts from human involvement. Basic cruise control is the limit IMO. Good review BTW, looking forward to the full one.

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

FYI my 2014 Harley has link braking. Prob nothing like the bmw. Your the best in the business bud. Very in depth reviews. Keep em coming.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks, will do!

[@GregMason-y8x]

Thank goodness for a sensible well informed presentation. You have nailed the features so well and given a balanced and informed view of this amazing bike. Thank you .

[@steveh7108]

My biggest complaint about BMW after owning them for years is their lack of dealers and some of their proprietary Communications. As high-tech as BMWs are and with one of the highest recalls first service. They need much much more dealers in the US. There is way too many areas in the US that you've got to travel over 100 miles to get to a dealer.

[@thomassterns7120]

Agree. This is why I traded my '18 RT for a Versys 1000. Only one dealership in Idaho that was bought by a big auto/rv/boat enterprise. 5 week lead time to get a regular interval service and they keep it for 5 days - which given riding season here is not much more than 4 months sucks.

[@kenneth61]

Unfortunately BMW did the wrong choice here. Aiming for a fashion brand they finished with som dealers because of their not so good looking salesroom. So in Sweden there is fewer dealers now.

[@chadkline4268]

It's not easy to be in that business. Sales are not high, mostly lifelong loyal customers, and a dealer is always in the position of being hated by the client and squeezed by BMW. The client thinks: I don't want to pay so much for this and that, I already paid a lot for this bike! And BMW, like all other mfrs, wants the dealer to spend unpaid hours and hours communicating with customers and detailing problems and striving for resolutions, while putting out impossible superhuman times on mechanical repairs. What they'll pay to have certain things performed. It's really difficult for mechanics and dealers. But in my experience, if you are a good mechanic, you can take care of everything yourself, and though the costs of some parts are expensive, they are well worth their price. The quality more than compensates for costs.

[@warrenr4]

I see a ton of things to go wrong on this bike, and given BMW’s reputation for reliability, I’ve owned three, they probably will. Just after the warranty has run out. Thanks for the video Ian, top notch as usual. Regards 🇬🇧

[@Carlisho]

The only thing I see here that can go wrong and be costly to repair is the headlight, everything else is stuff that has been done before for a while in the car industry, all of it is already proven to work and be reliable.

[@lyndonohue3350]

Not at all accurate. The RT is a very reliable bike. I see RTP bikes with over 200K that run like new and have been bulletproof reliable.

[@jatichsicharta]

When my GSA1250 was in for repairs I received a RT1200 for 3 months during last winter. At first I didn't like this bike at all, but after a couple of weeks I began to love it. The GSA is more nimble and the RT more relax. I really wonder for the next generation. I ride al year round and only use my car to go wingfoiling.

[@julienrocher1]

Thank Ian. Your videos are the best.

[@coyote8777]

I have the 1250 in a R1250R. Very powerful and smooth.I've toured the country on it. I had a R1200RT and it was incredibly nimble, incredibly comfortable, and again very powerful. It was a bit to warm for me in Florida (not enough airflow), and that's why I went to the R (first off was a R1200R that I completed an 11,000 mile tour on). However, after being reminded by this video of how great the RT was it makes me want one again.

[@coyote8777]

Oh and for the low pressure behind the shield I switched to a Calisci shield. Took care of all that.

[@rastamanvibrationispositiv9861]

Best RT review . Bravo

[@mogarrett3045]

that's impressive.....I had a BMW 2012 S1000RR, this would be a dream to ride on long distance. thanks for video

[@dungbeetle.]

Another excellent video, Ian. 👍

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@MWS1960]

I ride an RT and my friend is a motorcycle cop in Phoenix, AZ and rides a new 2023 RT, and his personal bike is 1250GSA….I tell him he has a great life 😂😂

[@freyguyzr1]

These bikes are awesome, BMW has dialed in the recipe. My 2010 impressed me a ton.

[@masterspin7796]

I have 8,000 miles on my 2022 it cost me right at $30,000 w/trunk....for the price it has one major flaw and a couple of small issues...#1 the buttons need to be "backlit" when it gets dark the fumbling begins, I have memorized the patterns for the most part but still have to be selective especially for the wind screen adjustment...#2 The seat..it is o.k. if you are 6 feet tall and 200lbs. I am 5 feet 8... 140lbs. there is at least 6 inches of padded seat that I don't sit on behind my ass...Fuel mileage is great I did over 308 miles of mountain touring on one tank it also handles like a sport bike the brakes are 100% great!...#3 the worst thing about this motorcycle is the navigation system it straight up sucks.

[@BigRockMoto]

totally agreed on those points, will be in my review

[@masterspin7796]

I want to buy an 890 like the one you have..@@BigRockMoto

[@Ntmoffi]

I think it's wild that my inexpensive 390 Adventure has backlit switch gear and your bike does not.

[@JoeS97756]

@@Ntmoffi wow, that's crazy

[@steveh4564]

Your reviews of the RT here greatly helped solidify my choice. I was looking at RT's and Goldwing DCT's and ended up with a 2023 R 1250 RT in Alpine White and could not be happier.

[@jhonnydumeny9816]

This review is making me consider the RT1250 as my next bike. Sportiness and touring with lots of tech. Win win.

[@mrh0wler353]

12:10 "Man, this bike handles amazing." Same as my 2006 r1200rt, amazing handling. That's why I'm looking at the r rt road bikes.

[@hansvetter8653]

You missed to show the incredible engineering of the front suspension of the RT.

[@nicholasshaw7672]

I cannot believe it Ian, totally out of character- you are riding this bike- what a surprise you're riding/testing this and I requested it- you are a star!🎉 have always secretly wanted one - I am now going to get in the bath- here in the UK, where it is raining, and enjoy this! Nick ( proud owner of Ducati 1260 V twin Enduro (2019) Ducati DesertX (2022) & BMW ScramblerX -air-cooled (2018). P.s am also watching your recent review of 2023 /2024 updates of off-road bikes

[@atrenthillman]

Thanks man. I'm having a hard time deciding on a new bike. I appreciate you going into such detail. 😊

[@ryanmalone2681]

Love the Boxer engine and this bike. However, I’ll take a GS or GSA every time. The ergos are better, the suspension has more travel and is more luxurious, and you can still tackle roads that the RT can’t if you need to.

[@Richard.Cabeza]

That’s my opinion also.

[@natalietannerblogger-theed9419]

Agree, much more legroom.

[@dh2392]

Possibly because I'm tall, I just don't find a sport touring riding position comfortable. And yes, I've tried them, and owned them . I had a Honda ST1300 ABS , and a Honda VFR800 before my current bike . Bikes with sporty ergonomics are basically trying to fold you up into an aerodynamic pretzel shape, and the taller you are, the more cramped you'll be. Also I have cruise control in my car, and on my bike and never use it. I used to think I really wanted cruise control on my next bike, but that's because my previous bikes put my wrists at uncomfortable angles, and also put weight on my wrists. I have neither anymore, and so my wrists don't need a break

[@Porsche996driver]

CHP first selected 1150RT in like 1997. Pricier entry but lower TCO and designed for high performance and maneuverability. It’s the motorcycle Porsche would make with the Boxer motor.

[@llerradish]

Having the front end not dive when breaking into a corner can be a blessing and it can be a curse. Other than that the bike sounds pretty interesting.

[@louisgaliano7418]

Everything thing you pointed out is absolutely true! There are even more features that will no doubt come out in your full review. I have owned my R1250RT for eighteen months and my wife and I just love it.

[@berkeleyfuller-lewis3442]

For several years I rode a predecessor of this bike . . . a 2004 R-1150T. Same boxter engine (only air cooled, less HP), and an earlier, but still superb and amazing linked brake ABS system. Had to sell the bike, but am SO on board for buying a new R-1250RT. Your review was wonderful. Thank you.

[@heinrichgerhardt6119]

Same here! I sold my 2004 R1150RT last year and picked up my new 2023 RT in April. The new one is definitely better.

[@DukeJohnny]

Mr Ian, please - I'm already having a dillema between a Tiger 1200 and a GS, now you're adding this to my conundrum? But giggles aside, I know those 3 bikes are different, but if you were to choose one for medium and long (like really long, accross Europe - I know, that you Americans have longer distances, calm down please) distances + rarely city commute - which would you pick? The RT sounds extremely comfy but I bet in the city it's completely useless... so far the Tiger seems the most attractive to me (overall cost + services later will be less than beemers I assume) but I am still not 100% convinced yet. Thank you for your reviews, I've learned a LOT from them, cheers from Poland sir!

[@BigRockMoto]

For long distances the RTbis the king. It's also fine in the city. However a Tiger is also a great bike

[@DukeJohnny]

@@BigRockMoto thank you!

[@TandemAdventures]

Totally agree, I had 3 of them over 20 years!

[@skippynj1979]

I had a 16rt... best bike I ever had.. I never should have gotten rid of it.

[@hurtadoaviles]

Excellent video Ian. Thanks!

[@spenserwalker7768]

Always looking forward to watch your reviews . I find there are very few Y. Tubers like you that really know what they talk about. I purchased my new R 1200 RT 2007. I'm almost 74 . The last couple of years I was thinking about reducing to a lighter bike but when I ride the RT I want to keep it. Lets not talk about pulling the bike out of the garage. Of course one can't compare my RT with the R 1250 RT version . Many actual features though started with the BMW s like mine . Of course they are not perfect , but who wants them to.😊

[@josipdenac5006]

Abs and cardan shaft also incredible quality 😂

[@oba1956]

As a current owner of 2009 RT, and K1300GT I would buy R1250RT for Touring and Its great for Curves and Cayon, and there is nothing like its Growl.. I riden my son's Harley's an Indian bikes.

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

My 2014 flhtcu Harley has link brakes. They are bad ass. Thanks Ian. Once again your the best. Can’t wait for the transalp review.

[@gravyau]

Thank you for having such excellent grammar.

[@ScottRoney]

I own a 2021 RT and love it. Well organized and produced video. Looks like you were riding in SoCal 🫡🙏

[@terrycoxusa]

Except for the tft screen and the adaptive cruise, my 2005 R1200rt has the features you talk about, 18 years later.

[@lestersmyth692]

Thanks Ian I’m looking forward to the rest of your review. The RT is in a league of its own however this is reflected in it’s hefty price tag. I wasn’t quite in the position to purchase new so went for a 2019 approved used from BMW. It came fully serviced with a 2 year warranty and saved myself around 10k GBP. I absolutely love it 👍

[@youtubeaccount9058]

You can get a really nice R1200RT for a good price - for a song, if you'll go for an oil/air cooled. But a lot of BMW dealerships won't service anything over 10 years old, which partly explains it.

[@dxhamshack7905]

Great walkthrough. 1. Does the remote have remote start (if in neutral)? 2. How does this one compare to the K1600B? 3. Does it have inductive phone charging? 4. Does the radar also have animal and pedestrian recognition (deer, dogs, cats, moose and so on) and auto break? Indian Chieftain and Roadmaster and more have electronic windshield.

[@sergiymarchenko1002]

not to mention it has a pretty decent clearance - good for rural roads...

[@gregleingang9409]

Great watch and looking forward to the full review!

[@neonsamurai1348]

That bike is one of my top contenders for a new motorcycle next year, that or another (sport)tourer, or a big ADV like the new GSA/Multistrada V4/Tiger 1200. Can only have one though, so its a tough choice. Cheers!

[@carloalbertoranzani8041]

If you only can have one, like me, in the end I went with a GS (non adv) The seat height of the RT is lower, but the weight is really something that would prevent me taking the bike for short commuting or small errands If you ride 100% on tarmac and you don’t do many short urban commuting, RT all the way

[@DukeJohnny]

High five, I'm also torn between Tiger, GS (the new one maybe? BMW should showcase it next month apparently) and that RT, because I'm interested in having a bike shaft-driven... uh, the decisions! Safe rides :)

[@steveh7108]

After owning several BMWs over the last 25 years, I will tell you to proceed with caution! I no longer have them on my wishlist of new bikes. Their lack of dealers and support is gone beyond bad. One of the most high tech and the most recalls for service and yet they have the least amount of dalers of just about any bike. And you need a dealer to do just about everything on these bikes. You can change the oil yourself but you need to go to a dealer just to turn off the light on the dash. I still think BMWs are some of the best riding bikes out there but I will no longer spend my hard-earned money on one.

[@martyllanos73]

@@steveh7108where do you live? There’s 3 dealers within 25 miles of me and 5 within 60 miles.

[@IRLtrolls]

If you can only have one bike it’s always best to have a GS

[@TerraMagnus]

I've got the 2016 predecessor of this bike (R1200RT). The newer models have more tech, slightly better engine, but fundamentally it's the same bike. So much is the same. And that's a good thing. This is a bike that's literally been iterated on year after year after year since the old BMW airheads (the RT existed even then as an R100 variant). This is a bike you can ride all day long on the highway, lean it over into turns on the back roads, and really do anything short of off-roading (and some would argue it can even off-road with the right tires... but I won't). The performance is objectively better than some of the big liter sport bikes I've owned in the past.

[@bernaro]

One of the others good reasons to ride a boxer engine is the security matter in case of undesired falling. Just because of the shape, and the angle with the ground you will quickly understand that your leg will no be injured under the bike.

[@fanismarg1977]

Dream bike! I love it!

[@BigRockMoto]

You and me both!

[@Patiboke]

4:48 This is the low centre of gravity, but even more the orientation of the crank shaft, no gyroscopic effect when leaning.

[@ivanhoe4766]

I enjoyed this first video. I bought my 21 RT in July 2022 and have accumulated 20,201 miles throughout the great Texas Hill Country and Big Bend area. You nailed it when you said this is the best all around bike as it does all I want, which would require 2 or 3 other bikes to accomplish well. Myy everyday ride is without the luggage, making it lighter and more flickable for the twisties. I love this bike and after getting off, I look back and go wow! I look forward to you follow up video on this RT.

[@damschenlinssen]

Yes the color of the kislux is beautiful and it is a great decision, maybe one day they will add feet and straps. It would be nice to have a bigger bag during the colder months when we have to store gloves, beanies, scarves, etc…

[@nicholasthomson97]

Does the adaptive cruise control change gears when braking or accelerating? Can’t wait for the full detailed vid!

[@marcusturner5291]

Nice ultimate riding machine

[@zoomzoommo]

Unless you’ve spent time on an RT with the adaptive cruise control, please withhold judgment. For me, it’s a game changer. As Ian stated, ACC reduces fatigue. A recent 5.5 hr ride had me feeling almost refreshed at the end of the ride, instead of tired. The ACC just makes it easy. A two up ride today with the wife over mountain passes (Telluride area) made me appreciate the ACC even more, especially following cars at slow speeds through switchbacks. Just use the quick shifter to select the gear, and let the ACC do its job. IMO this technology improves my safety.

[@velcroman11]

I road all over Australia riding a 75/7 will and RT fairing. It is easy to ride, fix on the side of the road. I have ridden with blokes with “modern” fuel injected machines. We all stoped for petrol at Richmond NSW. Rode off and 100 metres we all practically stopped at the same time. We filled up with petrol and water. I dropped off the bottom of the carbies wiped them out and was ready to go in 15 minutes. My mates spent over an hour removing the necessary and blowing out their injectors. Just one of many problems of modern “clever” bikes. Great in the city or close to an NRMA centre but, when your 100 k west of Upper Cumbucktor you’re stuffed.

[@GhostRider-69]

I agree that the BMW RT is a very good touring/Cruising motorcycle. I currently own a R1250 GSA and a 2018 Honda Goldwing. One of my complaints about the R1250 and also the 1250 RT is that the hand control buttons do not light up or flow in the dark. Where the Goldwing controls all light up at night. it might not sound like a big deal but go riding at night and you will see how important it is to be able to see your handlebar controls. great content!

[@carsyoungtimerfreak1149]

Reviews like this are, understandably, always personal... And, to me, that is how you should view them. Most Honda's have and had linked brakes, long before BMW had it...

[@David..]

This bike is an absolute unit.

[@2wheelsgene171]

I owned an 07 and loved it. I’ll eventually purchase a new one.

[@drew6116]

That removable saddle bag is slick! Maybe it's nothing new, but it is to me. Last time I rode was in the early 80s so this was a fun vid. What a great choice to have! That windshield is crazy cool. Must be a blast to be on the design team. I'm a big fan of BMW, been driving one or another (car) since the 70s, with a '72 2002 in the garage right now. It's not a bike, but it's darn fun and pure.

[@forestmotoadventures]

Thanks Ian! I can’t wait for the M1000XR to hit our shores. I’m interested in that one-loved your review of the S1000XR. What a machine!

[@cintric7183]

Awesome review. Awesome video. As always. Love your work! Tanks!

[@davidlsmithjr129]

Glad to see another Dirt rider has fallen in RT love also. Well done! feature #5. is my favorite

[@johndonovan6840]

I own a 2010 Rt.. even my “old lady” a marvelous bike. Many of this features like ESA and Linked brakes are present in the 2010 model. Cruise control is not as sofisticated, but works well, and i really would be very happy with this new lighting. Mine is really not good. But, on the down side, is the price. I’m 67, and retired, so i’ll keep my “old lady” for another few years and maybe ride it for another 70.000 miles.

[@MAli-xs2pm]

Been riding since 1982 & had quite a number of bikes but this one topped them all for me. The only thing I wish BMW didn't kill is the soft comfort seat they had on the older air cooled model, I did 10 hrs a day for 2 weeks on that & it was a delight VS this newer (had 2016) that was such a pain in the butt, literally . Stay safe & have fun 🙂