2014 BMW R 1200 RT
When BMW upgraded its R 1200 GS with the new semi-water cooled boxer, it was only a matter of time before the engine was offered in another model.
Speculation pointed towards the R 1200 RT, which lost some popularity when BMW introduced the K 1600 tourers in 2011. And during the opening day at EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show), this speculation became truth.
At EICMA, BMW unveiled the 2014 R 1200 RT, which features the new 125-horsepower, semi-water cooled boxer twin. The R 1200 RT, which enters its 35th year in 2014, is also loaded with the latest in technology, including ASC traction control, two riding modes, ABS, and something new to the world of touring motorcycles – an optional BMW Gear Shift Assistant Pro.
Many advantages arrive from using the semi-water cooled boxer twin, including the extra power; the boxer produces 125 horsepower at 7750 rpm and 92 ft.-lb. of torque at 6500 rpm. BMW says to use the semi-water cooled boxer on the new R 1200 RT, the centrifugal masses of both the crankshaft and the alternator were increased, resulting in a smoother-running engine. BMW also used higher transmission ratio to keep the RPMs lower.
Two modes combined with Automatic Stability Control (ASC) will be available on the R 1200 RT – Rain and Road. BMW also offers an optional “Dynamic” riding mode that features a “Hill Start Control Fucntion. BMW says the sporty nature of the R 1200 RT can be experienced to the full in ‘Dynamic’ mode, while Hill Start Control helps to make light work of stopping and starting on an uphill slope.”
The new RT can also be ordered with the BMW Gear Shift Assistant Pro. This gear assist – a world first for production motorcycles – enables upshifts and downshifts without the clutch or throttle. BMW says the gear assist “enables upshifts and downshifts to be made without operation of the clutch or throttle valve in the load and rev speed ranges that are of relevance for riding, resulting not just in even greater comfort but in added dynamism, too.”
Another upgrade to the 2014 BMW R 1200 RT is the new “continuous” main frame for great directional stability. And if owners add the optional semi-active suspension BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment, the new RT attains “unprecedented levels of riding safety, performance and comfort, with the damping being automatically adapted to the prevailing conditions to suit the riding situation and the maneuvers being carried out.”
Regarding ergonomics, BMW has revamped the rider “triangle” for additional comfort. The handlebars, seat and footrests have all be lowered 20 millimeters, which will allow shorter riders to reach the ground.
BMW also revamped the windshield for optimal wind protection, and added a dynamic headlight assembly based on the BMW Motorrad K 1600 models. An optional daytime running light is also available.
The instrument cluster was redesigned, and now features a larger 5.7-inch TFT color display. The information from the BMW Motorrad Pro onboard computer can be accessed here, such as oil level and gear shift indicator, along with an analog speedometer and tach. The cockpit can be further enhanced with an optional audio system similar to the BMW K 1600 models, which features Bluetooth connection, and a control interface for iPod and MP3 players.
The 2014 BMW R 1200 RT will be available in Quartz Blue Metallic or Callisto Grey Metallic Matte contrasted with Dark Slate Metallic Matte, or Ebony Metallic contrasted with Monolith Metallic Matte.
BMW did not release the MSRP, but expect if things follow the same pattern as they did with the R 1200 GS, the price should not be higher than the previous model (2013 BMW R 1200 RT base price – $17,350; with optionals as high as $22,000).
2014 BMW R 1200 RT Highlights:
- Air/liquid-cooled twin-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 1,170 cc. Output 92 kW (125 hp) at 7,750 rpm, maximum torque 125 Nm (92 lb‑ft) at 6,500 rpm.
- Crankshaft and alternator with increased centrifugal mass for even smoother engine running.
- Two riding modes (“Rain” and “Road”) plus Automatic Stability Control (ASC).
- Riding mode Pro with “Dynamic” riding mode and Hill Start Control as an option.
- Gear Shift Assistant Pro as an option for added comfort and dynamism when changing gear.
- New chassis with a continuous frame that is even more agile and more comfortable.
- Semi-active suspension Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) as an option.
- New bodywork in more dynamic design.
- Optimized comfort and aerodynamics.
- New, adjustable windshield for even better wind and weather protection.
- New headlight concept.
- LED daytime running light as an option.
- Multifunctional instrument cluster with large TFT colour display.
- BMW Motorrad Pro onboard computer offering a wide range of information.
- Innovative audio controls.
- New colors.
- Optional extras and special accessories made to BMW Motorrad’s customary high standards of quality.
