BMW Announces 2026 R 1300 RT
BMW Motorrad has officially announced the 2026 BMW R 1300 RT, representing another exciting step forward for the company’s iconic sport touring platform. BMW describes the latest RT as more powerful and more athletic with nearly every part reimagined and re-engineered by BMW Motorrad designers and engineers resulting in capabilities well beyond its predecessor.
2026 R 1300 RT Top Takeaways
- New 1,300 cc Boxer Tourer with 145 hp and 110 lb-ft of torque.
- Optional ASA Automatic Shift Assistant.
- Four style/color combinations.
- Market launch expected in late Q3/early Q4, 2025.
- MSRP of $22,495* plus Destination. *Price subject to change.
Enhanced Design
The BMW R 1300 RT introduces several new features that enhance both touring comfort and sport riding performance. The Comfort Passenger Package, which includes heated seats, grips, and a backrest, significantly improves passenger comfort. The new electrically operated Variable Luggage System adjusts the bike’s width dynamically, optimizing maneuverability in city traffic and fuel efficiency.
On the performance side, the Sport Brake, Gear Shift Assistant Pro, and DCA electronic suspension offer a more refined riding experience. The Automatic Shift Assistant (ASA) now allows for manual or automatic shifting, enhancing ease of travel. Ergonomic updates position the rider slightly forward for better control, while the handlebar design improves responsiveness.
Weather protection has been upgraded with adjustable side trim, ensuring optimal airflow and wind resistance in different conditions. The new luggage system features electrified side cases and topcases with adjustable storage volumes, interior lighting, and USB-C charging ports. The larger topcase even includes a heated backrest for the passenger.
Overall, the R 1300 RT integrates new technology, improved ergonomics, and innovative storage solutions raising sport touring to a new level.
2026 R 1300 RT FEATURES
- New 1,300 cc liquid-cooled boxer motor delivers 145 hp and 110 lb-ft of torque.
- New steel frame with aluminum rear section.
- New front EVO Telelever and rear EVO Paralever suspension for greater stability.
- Available electronic DCA Dynamic Suspension Adjustment with two settings for Comfort and Dynamic riding.
- New lighter, more athletic design.
- New lighter wheels (combined -3.0 lbs.).
- New Prop-Up Aid feature for the optional center stand.
- New 10.25 inch TFT color display with Connectivity.
- New Riding Assistant with Active Cruise Control, Frontal Collision Warning and Lane Change Warning.
- Three standard riding modes – RAIN, ROAD, ECO.
- Optional riding modes – DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PRO.
- Standard MSR Engine Drag Torque Control.
- Standard BMW Motorrad Fully Integral ABS Pro with ABS control in corners.
- Standard full LED lighting with optional Headlight Pro.
- Optional Audio Pro.
- Optional Comfort Passenger Package with heated seats, passenger backrest and grips.
- Four Styles/Colors.
- Optional High Windshield.
- Multiple seat heights.
- Integrated side cases and optional top case with LED lighting and power sockets.
- Optional expanding Vario cases.
- New Standard Complimentary BMW Motorrad Ultimate Care Break-In Service.
Improved Engine and Drivetrain
The 2026 R 1300 RT’s new boxer engine delivers a significant upgrade in performance and efficiency. Displacing precisely 1,300cc achieved by enlarging the cylinder bore and using a crankshaft with a reduced stroke, the engine now produces 145hp and 110lb-ft of torque, up from 136hp and 105lb-ft, which makes it the most powerful production BMW boxer engine to date. Surprisingly, the new engine’s fuel consumption remains the same despite the boost in power, while still delivering a smoother, more responsive throttle experience and improved vibration characteristics.
Further enhancements are evident in the engine’s packaging and ancillary systems. The 6-speed gearbox and clutch have been integrated beneath the engine rather than behind it, resulting in a more compact, lighter setup with notable weight savings and improved balance for better handling. Gear shifting precision has been refined through a sensor based on a torsion magnet, and the drive system now features larger universal joints and an improved rear hub design. Additionally, BMW ShiftCam technology introduces variable valve timing and stroke on the intake side, promoting effective fuel swirl for superior combustion and enhanced efficiency. Complementing these mechanical advances are an upgraded stainless steel exhaust system and a set of riding modes, including an ECO mode for maximum fuel economy and optional dynamic mode settings, all working together to provide an optimal mix of performance, efficiency, and rider safety on any road.
Redesigned Suspension and Chassis
The 2026 R 1300 RT introduces a completely redesigned chassis that marks a significant evolution in both structure and handling. At its core is a more compact steel sheet metal main frame providing greater stiffness, paired with an innovative aluminum lattice tube rear frame that replaces the prior tubular steel design. This new rear frame, featuring a slender hexagonal extruded aluminum profile, is engineered to provide superior rider and passenger comfort while accommodating the larger-volume luggage system. The set-up also gives the rider a two-stage seat height adjustment . The compact drive unit further concentrates weight toward the overall center of gravity, resulting in improved handling, both more precise braking and a more responsive suspension.
At the front, an advanced EVO Telelever system now integrates a flexible stainless steel guide that decouples unwanted tilting from the steering inputs, ensuring exceptional rigidity and steering precision. The 5.9inches of front suspension travel and the 6.2inches of redesigned rear EVO Paralever suspension travel, worj together with a continuous quick-release swinging arm to deliver a stable yet dynamic ride. New 17-inch aluminum cast wheels, lighter by 3.0lbs, further enhance acceleration, braking, and overall handling.
Adding to these improvements, the optional Dynamic Chassis Adjustment (DCA) system allows riders to select between two distinct chassis geometries. This feature tailors the suspension setup to provide a balanced mix of comfort and dynamic sport handling, adjusting ride height and suspension damping based on speed and ride mode. Finally, the braking system has been refined with high-performance ABS Pro, complemented by Dynamic Brake Control, and an option to add the high performance Sport Brake upgrade to further enhance stopping performance.
State of the Art Electronics
The 2026 R 1300 RT sets a new highwater mark in on-board technology with integrated cutting-edge electronics and connectivity features to amplify both safety and riding enjoyment. Standard full LED headlights deliver exceptional clarity through a lighting module containing 12 low-beam and 5 high-beam LEDs. For those seeking even greater illumination, the optional Headlight Pro enhances the system with additional LEDs and adaptive functionality. With the Headlight Pro option, the bike automatically switches on extra lights at set lean angles and uses a servomotor to actively adjusts the cutoff line for optimal pitch compensation under braking and acceleration.
A central element of the new electronics is the 10.25-inch TFT color display. With full HD resolution, this robust screen provides easy access to navigation, multimedia, and vehicle settings via an intuitive split-screen interface. The newly developed Connectivity Hub and dual radio antennas ensure smooth integration with accessories and smartphones, allowing riders to effortlessly connect to services like the BMW Motorrad Connected App for real-time map navigation and route sharing. BMW even anticipates the system will connect and manage devices like heated gear and futuristic smart glasses one day.
The audio experience on the R 1300 RT is also significantly enhanced. The standard audio system offers a refined sound profile with improved radio reception and user-friendly control through a redesigned Multicontroller. For audiophiles, the optional Audio Pro system steps up performance with premium, actively driven four-channel outputs, improved speaker design, and an adaptive sound setting that adjusts to riding conditions for crystal-clear audio even at high speeds.
Additional innovations include an optional Riding Assistant featuring Active Cruise Control, Lane Change Warning, and Frontal Collision Warning. A ventilated smartphone charging compartment with a USB-C port is within the rider’s reach. Completing the package is BMW’s standard Intelligent Emergency Call feature, which can summon help in critical situations. These advanced electronics collectively transform the 2026 R 1300 RT into a highly connected, intuitive, and safe sport touring machine.
Style and Color Packages
The 2026 R 1300 RT is offered in four distinct style/color combinations: Alpine White, Triple Black, Impulse, and Option 719 Camargue. Each one featuring unique, high-quality paint finishes. Regardless of color choice, all models come standard with a comprehensive suite of premium equipment, including the advanced boxer motor with BMW ShiftCam, full LED lighting, a modern connectivity and multimedia system, and robust safety and comfort features such as electronic suspension, integrated pannier cases, and intelligent riding aids.
Furthermore, available style packages allow buyers to further tailor the bike to suit their preferences. The White Package adds cutting-edge systems like Gearshift Assist Pro or Automatic Shift Assistant, Ride Modes Pro, and Dynamic Chassis Adaption alongside features like Headlight Pro, an enhanced audio system, and upgraded seating comfort. The Triple Black, Impulse, and Option 719 packages build on these enhancements by including additional elements such as a Variable Wind Deflector, a topcase carrier with topcase, and a passenger 12V outlet, further refining both the bike’s performance and its luxury touring appeal.
Technical Data
| ** Engine ** | ||
| Capacity (cc) | 1,300 | |
| Bore/stroke (mm) | 106.5 x 73.0 | |
| Output (hp) | 145 @ 7,750 rpm | |
| Torque (ft-lbs) | 110 @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Type | Air/liquid-cooled two cylinder boxer motor with two overhead chain-driven camshafts, a counterbalance shaft BMW ShiftCam. | |
| Compression | 13.3:1 | |
| Fuel | Premium unleaded 95 RON | |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 | |
| Ø intake / exhaust valve dia. (mm) | 44.0 / 35.6 | |
| Ø throttle valve (mm) | 52 | |
| Engine control | BMS-O with throttle-by-wire | |
| Emission control | Closed loop 3-way catalytic converter EU5+ | |
| ** Electrical System ** | ||
| Generator (W) | 650 | |
| Battery (V/Ah) | 12 / 12.5 | |
| Headlight | LED | |
| Rear light | LED | |
| Starter (W) | 900 | |
| ** Power Transmission ** | ||
| Clutch | Anti-hopping wet clutch, hydraulically operated | |
| Gearbox | Constant-mesh 6-speed manual, cardan shaft drive | |
| Transmission ratios | ||
| I | 2.438 | |
| II | 1.714 | |
| III | 1.296 | |
| IV | 1.059 | |
| V | 0.906 | |
| VI | 0.794 | |
| Primary ratio | 1.479 | |
| Secondary ratio | 2.818 | |
| ** Chassis ** | ||
| Frame construction type | Steel main frame with bolt on aluminum rear frame | |
| Front wheel suspension | BMW Motorrad EVO Telelever | |
| Rear wheel suspension | Cast aluminum single-sided swingarm with BMW EVO Paralever, WAD shock | |
| Spring travel, front/rear (inches) | 5.9 / 6.2 | |
| Wheel castor (inches) | 4.5 | |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 59.0 | |
| Steering head angle (degrees) | 26 | |
| Brakes, front | Twin 310 mm disks with 4-piston radially mounted floating brake calipers | |
| Brakes, rear | Single 285 mm disk with 2-piston floating caliper | |
| ABS | BMW Motorrad Fully Integral ABS Pro | |
| Wheels | Aluminum cross-spoked wheels | |
| Wheel size front / rear (inches) | 3.50 x 17 / 6.00 x 17 | |
| Tire size front / rear | 120/70 ZR17 / 180/55 ZR17 | |
| ** Dimensions and Weights ** | ||
| Total length (inches) | 87.8 | |
| Total width incl. bar end mirrors (inches) | 38.2 | |
| Seat height (inches) | 30.7 – 33.9 | |
| Ground clearance (inches) | ||
| DIN unladen weight, road ready (lbs) | 619.5 | |
| Permitted total weight (lbs) | 1,024 | |
| Fuel tank capacity (gal) | 6.3 | |
| ** Performance Figures ** | ||
| Acceleration 0-62 mph (sec) | 3.6 | |
| Top speed (mph) | >124 mph | |
This Story is Only Beginning
Is the new R 1300 RT everything we hoped for? After read through the specs and soaking up the pictures, we offer a qualified “yes”. But we will wait for an up-close look and test ride before saying for sure. Until then, and for now, we are excited to see that BMW continues to invest in this class-leading sport touring motorcycle.
by Staff Writers
The American Sport Touring writing team represents a diverse group of passionate sport touring motorcycle riders and industry experts dedicated to delivering insightful, well-researched content. Our contributors, both within the organization and guest writers, bring deep firsthand experience with sport touring motorcycles, gear and accessories, and destination discovery and route planning. No matter the assignment, each upholds the American Sport Touring commitment to high-quality, informative, and trustworthy content.
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