BMW unveils 2026 R 1300 RT touring bike
Hot on the heels of the R 1300 R roadster, BMW Motored has revealed an RT offering. Following in the footsteps of the R 1250 RT, it is expected to arrive in dealerships in the second half of 2025.
The new model continues to build on the proven qualities of BMW RT heritage, such as touring capability and riding comfort, while also broadening its usage profile by making its dynamic systems more prominent.
Sporty optional extras such as a sport brake, enhanced Shift Assistant Pro (which provides the option to ride in manual or automatic modes) and a newly developed DCA electronic suspension setup improve the riding experience.
Wind and weather protection includes adjustable side trim that is integrated into the bike’s design. Likewise, an improved ergonomic triangle formed by handlebars, footrests and seat positions the rider noticeably further forward over the R 1250 RT.
At the same time, the more active seating position still allows for relaxed touring and cruising, even with a passenger. The height and angle of the rider’s seat can be adjusted to fine-tune the riding position too, while passenger comfort has been significantly improved.
New 27-litre cases (fitted as standard) now offer more space for the passenger’s lower legs without compromising storage volume, while a seat height of only 780mm makes the bike incredibly accessible. Vario cases are available as an optional extra.
The latter are electrified and can be unlocked using the central locking system, feature interior lighting and come with a USB-C charging port in the left box. A large 54-litre top case can also be added, and has a heated backrest for the passenger.
Powering the 2026 BMW R 1300 RT is a 1300cc boxer engine outputting 107kW of power and 149Nm of torque. In standard trim, it has three riding modes, including Road and Rain. Built on a completely redesigned chassis, it now sports a steel sheet metal main frame.
The front wheel guide on the new R 1300 RT features an Evo tele-lever, clamped tightly to the fork tubes, while the upper fork construction incorporates a handlebar decoupling system that prevents any detrimental tilting movement.
The rear wheel guide’s Evo para-lever offers a significantly stiffer connection via the suspension in the frame, and a continuous swinging arm quick-release axle for improved ride and handling.
The R 1300 RT comes with a twin disc brake front, featuring two radially mounted four-piston fixed callipers. At the rear is a single disc brake with a two-piston floating calliper, paired with BMW Motorrad’s integral ABS Pro.
On the tech front, a 10.25-inch TFT colour screen features integrated maps and a newly developed connectivity hub that connects an audio system capable of playback through speakers or a connected communications system.
An optional Audio Pro setup adds additional speakers. Pricing for the Australian market is yet to be confirmed, but we do know it will be offered in a basic Alpine White colour scheme, and a Triple Black variant in Blackstorm Metallic.
An Impulse variant will be offered in Racing Blue Metallic while the range topping Option 719 will be draped in Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic. To find out more about the 2026 R 1300 RT, visit the BMW Motorrad website or talk to your local dealership.
link
