The BMW R1150RT's light weight plus well engineered chassis = great handling. It’s all the more surprising as the R1150RT looks about as sporty as a brieze block. Dry weight is just 255kg – light for a full tourer. Many sources quote wet weight which makes the motorcycle sound heavy. Servo-assisted, linked, anti-lock brakes are excellent.
The BMW R1150RT's ‘Boxer’ opposed flat twin traces it’s heritage back to the 50s or even 20s with few major changes. It’s torquey at low rev and produces modest power higher up the tacho. It’s more than adequate – up to about 100mph when other tourers will clear off. Some surging on a steady throttle. Gearbox is pretty poor.
The BMW R1150RT has a solid construction which includes building in some resistance to salty roads. Brakes in particular resist weather better than most rivals. Plenty of bikes rack up huge mileages – 100,000 plus without major problems. The odd electrical niggle and small areas of corrosion are not unheard of.
The BMW R1150RT was not cheap when new but in this class, so are all the rivals. Now only available on the used market and becoming more affordable. Depreciation is low due to the bike’s durability and small cult following. Glitzy main dealers tend to charge more than private sales but not always – do your research. Find a BMW R1150RT for sale.
Insurance group: 14 of 17 – compare motorcycle insurance quotes now.
The BMW R1150RT delivers superb comfort for one or two – seat and bars are adjustable at a standstill, the screen can be moved on the move with a touch of a button. Panniers are included and work pretty well. Loads of extras are available including BMWs superb heated grips. Compare and buy parts for the BMW R1150RT in the MCN Shop.