BMW R 1250 RT 2021 vs. BMW R 1200 RT 2015

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1200 RT 2015

BMW R 1200 RT 2015

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Overview - BMW R 1250 RT 2021 vs BMW R 1200 RT 2015

The BMW R 1250 RT model year 2021 and the BMW R 1200 RT model year 2015 are both touring motorcycles with similar technical specifications. They both have a Boxer engine with 2 cylinders and a displacement of around 1200cc. The transmission is a prop shaft, and they both have double disk brakes at the front.

In terms of engine power, the BMW R 1250 RT 2021 has a slight advantage with 136 HP compared to the 125 HP of the BMW R 1200 RT 2015. The torque is also slightly higher in the newer model, with 143 Nm compared to 125 Nm. This means that the 2021 model will have slightly better acceleration and overall performance.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 RT 2021 features a Telelever front suspension, which provides better stability and control during cornering. The 2015 model, on the other hand, has a strut front suspension. Both models have a single swing arm rear suspension.

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, both models have the same front and rear tire width and diameter. They also have the same wheelbase and seat height. However, the 2021 model is slightly heavier, weighing 279 kg compared to the 274 kg of the 2015 model. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of 25 liters.

Now let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each model. The BMW R 1250 RT 2021 has superb wind and weather protection, which is essential for long-distance touring. It also has a great boxer engine that delivers powerful performance. The engine control is easy, and the controls are well-designed for intuitive use. The integrated panniers are also a great feature, providing ample storage space. Additionally, the bike offers high stability even at high speeds.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 RT 2015 is known for being luxuriously equipped and having very well-functioning electronics. The windshield is efficient in providing wind protection, and the handling is pleasant. The pannier system is spacious, allowing for convenient storage of belongings.

BMW R 1200 RT 2015

BMW R 1200 RT 2015

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 RT 2021 is slightly cumbersome to maneuver, which can be a drawback in tight spaces. Some users have reported that the topcase lock can be stiff, making it difficult to open and close. Additionally, the gearshifts can be somewhat stiff at low revs, which can affect the overall riding experience.

For the BMW R 1200 RT 2015, one of the main weaknesses is that it is very difficult to maneuver due to its weight of 300 kilos. This can be a significant drawback, especially in parking or slow-speed situations. Another weakness is the proud price, which may deter some potential buyers.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 RT 2021 and the BMW R 1200 RT 2015 are both excellent touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 2021 model offers a more powerful engine and improved suspension, while the 2015 model is known for its luxurious features and well-functioning electronics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1250 RT 2021 compared to BMW R 1200 RT 2015

BMW R 1250 RT 2021
BMW R 1200 RT 2015

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeBoxer
BoreBore102.5 mmBore101 mm
StrokeStroke76 mmStroke73 mm
Engine powerEngine power136 HPEngine power125 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpm
TorqueTorque143 NmTorque125 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,250 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio12.5
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeToughened, Dry
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionProp shaft
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquid-airCoolingAir
DisplacementDisplacement1,254 ccmDisplacement1,170 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTeleleverFront suspensionStrut

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSingle swing armSuspensionSingle swing arm

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,222 mmLength2,222 mm
WidthWidth985 mmWidth983 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,485 mmWheelbase1,485 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height805 mmSeat Height805 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)279 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)274 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity25 lFuel Tank Capacity25 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

The BMW R 1250 RT simply feels sovereign on the grand tour. We rode the 2020 model and are already thrilled with this version. The heavy motorbike is compact in the hand and wobbles through the bends with lightning speed. A great touring motorbike.

Superb wind and weather protection

Great boxer engine

Powerful power

Easy engine control

Well-designed controls

Great integrated panniers

High stability even at high speeds

Slightly cumbersome to manoeuvre

topcase lock presented itself as somewhat stiff

gearshifts somewhat stiff at low revs

BMW R 1200 RT 2015

BMW R 1200 RT 2015

It was predictable that the new R 1200 RT would perform even better with the new partially water-cooled boxer engine. Although 125 hp and 125 Newton metres of torque have quite a bit to haul with the 274 kilos ready to ride, the RT retains its unbelievable effervescence from below. This makes it extremely agile, especially on corner exit after a hairpin bend. In combination with the gearshift assistant Pro (which is, of course, available at extra cost), the gears just flow and you involuntarily move more sportily than you might have intended. The big bonus points of the R 1200 RT are its good workmanship, the simple and easy-to-follow operating principle and, last but not least, its small turning circle.

Luxuriously equipped

very well-functioning electronics

efficient windshield

pleasant handling

spacious pannier system.

Very difficult to manoeuvre at 300 kilos

proud price

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW R 1250 RT vs BMW R 1200 RT

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1250 RT 2021 and a BMW R 1200 RT 2015. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1250 RT 2021 is about 56% higher. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 9. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 RT with 71 days compared to 76 days for a BMW R 1200 RT. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 18 reviews for the BMW R 1250 RT and 18 reviews for the BMW R 1200 RT since model year 2009. The first review for the BMW R 1250 RT was published on 17/09/2018 and now has more than 52,500 views. This compares to more than 6,000 views for the first review on BMW R 1200 RT published on 14/07/2005.

Price BMW R 1250 RT

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW R 1200 RT

Model year
Current average market prices

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