The 2022 BMW R1250RT is a long rider’s dream bike…and it is easily the best bike I have ever owned. The RT has been around for quite a while with the first model being released in 1978. It has gone through several updates over the years, but since the beginning it sported the legendary BMW boxer engine. That boxer engine paired with a shaft drive make them known for their reliability, handling, and capability. I would love to hear stories from the long riders of old who rode the early model RTs all over the country. Oh the stories that could tell…I bet they enjoyed their RT as much as I enjoy mine!
Comfort – Since its introduction to the sport touring world, the RT has always been a very comfortable bike. The bike sets you up into an upright neutral riding position. The wind protection is excellent. The bike really doesn’t need anything for a long rider. However, I did install bar risers and a Russell Day Long saddle as well as highway pegs to take the comfort level up a notch. I have put many 600+ mile days without breaking a sweat on this bike. It has all of the creature comforts a long rider needs with plenty of storage. The RT is made for it, and thrives when your pounding out the miles.
Engine – As previously stated, the RT is equipped with the legendary BMW boxer engine. It’s a reliable motor that offers a little character as well. It’s not smooth like the K1600, you know you’re on a motorcycle when riding a boxer. The engine has plenty of power, and the 1250 is the first boxer with the shift-cam technology. Not sure how that system will do regarding longevity, but it definitely packs a punch! Maintenance is easy, and this engine is one of my favorites offered by BMW.
Handling – In my opinion the RT is the best handing bike out there. There is a reason police departments love this bike. It’s relatively light, super easy to maneuver at slow speeds, and can absolutely a blast to hammer in the twisties! The newer RT’s have electronic suspension, ride modes, dynamic traction control, dynamic abs, etc etc. Unlike some of the heavy weight sport tourers that are so refined you feel somewhat disconnected to the bike, the RT provides the perfect amount of feedback. Like my old Guzzi, the RT always puts a smile on my face when I’m riding!
Lights – The head lights on the RT are fantastic! Just like the K1600 bikes, the RT has adaptive headlights which swivel towards the direction of travel. These lights are no joke, they will seriously light up the road. The only downside is that I do sometimes get flashed when I’m running my low beams because oncoming traffic thinks I’m running my high beams, they are that bright. The fog lights are a great touch as well and do a nice job of lighting up the sides. The tail light and rear turn signals are an area where BMW could improve. The rear light cluster is small and not very bright. I will likely be adding additional lighting for the rear to signal when I’m slowing down or coming to a stop.
Brakes – Like most BMW bikes, the brakes on the RT work very well. They have a linked braking system and are equipped with dynamic ABS. A very advanced and non-intrusive system which will bring the bike to a rapid stop without upsetting the chassis. Brakes are not something you have to think or worry about while mounted on one of these bikes.
Tech – The RT has some of the most advanced tech available on a motorcycle. The version I have is equipped with dynamic cruise control, heated everything, wireless phone charger, electronic suspension, navigation, a large TFT screen, a decent sound system, and the list goes on. Once you get the hang of how use everything and you set your setting accordingly, the bike becomes easy and enjoyable. The only thing I wish BMW would do is illuminate the buttons and switches. When riding in the dark it can be a pain fumbling with switches you can’t see. Honda and Ducati illuminate their switches and buttons and it is quite convenient!
I plan on owning my RT for a long time to come. She’s my “go to” when I’m itching for a cross-country trip, and God willing I have a lot more planned! It simply does everything so well. This is a bike that I can definitely recommend if you’re thinking about living the life of a long rider!
Sport Touring Cycle Adventures 