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The BMW R 1300 RS is a sport touring motorcycle. The seating position is somewhat forward but not as extreme as on a superbike. You last longer in this position. The chance of sore wrists is less. And so on a motorcycle like the R 1300 RS you can take long trips in comfort.

RS with boxer engine

The R 1300 RS is the successor to the R 1250 RS. And before that you had the BMW models R 1200 RS, R 1150 RS, R 1100 RS and the aforementioned progenitor R 100 RS. All had and have a twin-cylinder boxer engine with horizontally mounted cylinders. Traditionally the hallmark of BMW’s R models.

TwinCam technology

The new BMW R 1300 RS is quite powerful with 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque. It is the same engine as in the R 1300 GS, R 1300 R and R 1300 RT. And also the most powerful series-built boxer engine from BMW. TwinCam technology with automatically adjusting intake camshafts provides extra power at high revs and fuel efficiency at low revs. The technology was already on the R 1250 RS.

Sporty driving with comfort

The R 1300 RS is not only an eye-catcher visually, but also offers improved ergonomics for sporty riding as well as long rides. The footpegs have been moved back further and the handlebars are slightly flatter. This creates a more active riding position, with more control over the bike during sporty riding. Optional comfort handlebars and a variety of buddy seats are available to customize the riding position.

 

Luggage system

For longer trips, the R 1300 RS has an innovative luggage system. The cases and a top case can be centrally locked and unlocked. The cases have capacities of 26 and 29 liters and the top case offers 39 liters of space. A new beltless tank bag is also available.

Three driving modes?

The R 1300 RS has three riding modes: Rain, Road and Eco. With the optional Riding Modes Pro, you get additional modes such as Dynamic and Dynamic Pro. The RS also features advanced technologies such as Automated Shift Assist (ASA). In addition, it is equipped with Engine Brake Torque Control (MSR), which provides stability when downshifting and coasting on slippery surfaces.

Frame and suspension

The frame of the R 1300 RS is completely new, with a sheet steel main frame and a cast aluminum rear frame. This provides a more compact design and better mass centralization, improving handling and braking precision. The bike also features a new upside-down telescopic fork and Evo Paralever rear suspension. New, lighter wheels reduce rotating mass, improving acceleration and braking response.

 

Automatic damping control

An optional upgrade is the electronic Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA), which automatically adjusts damping and suspension hardness based on driving conditions and the selected driving mode. This provides an even more refined driving experience and increased stability, especially in Dynamic mode.

Security expanded

The R 1300 RS comes standard with a braking system featuring Integral ABS Pro for optimum safety. There is also an optional sport brake system, which offers titanium-colored calipers and slightly improves braking performance. For the first time in a BMW RS, the bike is equipped with Headlight Pro, an adaptive cornering light system that adjusts lighting based on the bike’s lean angle. Also included is Riding Assistant, an optional system with features such as Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Change Warning (SWW), which contribute to safer driving.

Conclusion

BMW claims to have designed the bike for both dynamic riding pleasure and comfortable touring, with a focus on a refined riding experience and sporty design. The R 1300 RS comes in four variants: the base version in Racing Blue metallic, the Triple Black in Blackstorm metallic, the Performance variant in Lightwhite uni, and the premium Option 719 Cuyamaca in Brooklyn Grey metallic. The retail price starts at €20,190 and the market launch starts in July.