BMW Announces 2026 R 1300 R Roadster

BMW Motorrad has unveiled the all-new 2026 R 1300 R, a bold reimagining of its iconic boxer-powered roadster. With aggressive new styling, a redesigned chassis, and the most powerful boxer engine ever in a production BMW motorcycle, the R 1300 R is aimed squarely at riders who crave dynamic performance and the potential to go touring. BMW priced the R 1300 R at $16,595 MSRP plus destination charges.

While rumors continue to swirl about a forthcoming R 1300 RT sport touring model, BMW has made no official announcement on that front. For now, the R 1300 R takes the spotlight as the brand’s newest expression of boxer-powered performance.

More Powerful Boxer Engine

At the heart of the machine is a 1,300 cc flat-twin engine delivering 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 110 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. That makes it the most powerful production boxer BMW has ever built. The engine features BMW ShiftCam technology and a newly reconfigured gearbox mounted beneath the engine, helping shorten the powertrain and centralize mass for sharper handling.

The redesigned chassis includes a stiffer sheet metal main frame, a die-cast aluminum rear frame, and new upside-down telescopic forks paired with an updated EVO Paralever rear. At a mere 527 pounds ready to ride, the bike is noticeably lighter than before and rolls on new cast wheels that save 3 pounds in unsprung weight.

BMW offers four distinct trim levels:

• The base model is offered in Snapper Rocks Metallic.
• The Exclusive dressed in Racing Blue Metallic.
• The Performance variant in Lightwhite Uni outfitted with upgraded suspension, sport tires, and more aggressive ergonomics.
• The premium Option 719 Kilauea, featuring unique design elements and milled components.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Technology features include Dynamic Traction Control, three standard ride modes (Rain, Road, and Eco), and Integral ABS Pro as standard. Optional upgrades include Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) with adjustable spring rate, Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) for clutch-free shifting, and the Riding Assistant suite with Active Cruise Control and Front Collision Warning.

Key Specifications

Performance

• Engine configuration:  2 cylinder air/liquid cooled boxer
• Horsepower: 145hp at 7750rpm
• Torque: 110lb-ft at 6500rpm
• Transmission and clutch: 6-speed with anti-hopping (slipper) clutch
• Drive train: shaft 
• Fuel capacity:  17 liters / 4.5 gallons

Brakes

• Front: Twin floating 310mm discs, 4-piston radial brake callipers
• Rear: Single 285 mm disc, 2-piston floating calliper

Suspension Geometry

• Wheelbase: 59.5 inches
• Rake: 27.5 degrees
• Trail: 5 inches
• Front tire: 120/70 ZR-17
• Rear tire: 190/55 ZR-17
• Weight: 527 pounds (ready to ride)

Touring Options

• Comfort Package, includes: seat heating, heated grips, RDC (Ride Distance Calculator), preparation luggage system
• Luggage: optional side cases, case liners, tank bag
• Tall touring windshield
• Comfort handlebars
• A rider’s high or low seat with heat
• Comfort passenger seat (also with heat)
• Navigation
• Intelligent emergency call (SOS)
• Alarm

Sport Touring Potential

For sport touring riders, the R 1300 R includes thoughtful enhancements aimed at real-world usability. A newly developed hard case system, available as a factory option or through BMW Motorrad Accessories, offers 26- and 29-liter electrified panniers with interior lighting, central locking, and even a USB-C charging port inside the left-hand case. The optional Luggage System Preparation includes a wiring harness and control unit to support retrofitting of these premium cases. Also new is a strap-free tank bag that mounts using a magnetic tank ring. It expands from 5 to 8 liters, features a rigid shell, UV protection, and comes with a rain cover.

New Models Always Welcome

BMW has clearly sharpened the R 1300 R’s sporting edge without abandoning the comfort and versatility options that touring riders insist upon. Whether challenging a mountain pass or taking a spin around town, the 2026 R 1300 R is another solid choice from BMW Motorrad.