2000 BMW R1100RT Specs & Review

The 2000 BMW R1100RT is a classic sport-touring boxer built for riders who value stability, long-range comfort, and low-maintenance shaft drive. Produced from 1994–2001, this generation refined BMW’s telelever/paralever chassis into a confident mile-eater. This BMW R1100RT review focuses on the 2000 BMW R1100RT specs and how they translate to the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1085 cc
• Power: 90 hp (66 kW) @ 7,250 rpm
• Torque: 95 Nm (70 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm
• Wet weight: 282 kg (621 lb)
• BMW R1100RT seat height: 780/800/820 mm (adjustable)
• Engine type: Flat-twin boxer, 4 valves per cylinder

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the R1100RT is BMW’s air/oil-cooled flat-twin with Bosch Motronic MA 2.2 fuel injection. With 1085 cc producing 90 hp at 7,250 rpm and 95 Nm at 5,500 rpm, the engine delivers its best in the midrange, where real-world touring happens. In the city, the broad torque curve lets you short-shift and surf low revs without drama. On the highway, it settles into an easy lope, with enough roll-on to pass without frantic downshifts thanks to that peak torque arriving comfortably below redline.

A 5-speed transmission with a dry single-plate clutch feeds a shaft final drive, emphasizing durability and low maintenance. Top speed is rated at 196 km/h (122 mph), more than enough for sustained high-speed mile munching where legal. The boxer’s characteristic smoothness at speed and predictable throttle response make it as happy on all-day interstates as it is on a brisk weekend run.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R1100RT Seat Height

The R1100RT’s chassis combines BMW Telelever front suspension (120 mm travel) with Paralever rear suspension (135 mm travel). Telelever geometry is renowned for reducing front-end dive under braking, keeping the bike composed when you trail the brakes into a corner or shed speed quickly. The Paralever rear keeps the shaft-drive behavior tidy under throttle. A wheelbase of 1485 mm (58.5 in) and rake/trail of 24.1°/111 mm add up to straight-line stability and calm steering rather than flick-happy agility—exactly what you want in a long-distance tourer.

BMW R1100RT weight is listed at 282 kg (621 lb) wet, and you’ll feel that at parking-lot speeds. However, the low-slung boxer cylinders help keep mass centralized and low, aiding balance once you’re rolling. The adjustable BMW R1100RT seat height—780/800/820 mm—gives riders a clear path to fine-tuning fit. Shorter riders will likely prefer the 780 mm setting for easier footing at stops, while taller riders can move to 800 or 820 mm for better knee angle and room to move. Ground clearance of 153 mm (6.0 in) is plenty for spirited touring without dragging hard parts in normal riding.

Equipment & Features

Braking is handled by twin 305 mm front discs with 4-piston calipers and a 276 mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper, offering strong, predictable stopping power. Up front, the Telelever’s 120 mm of travel soaks up rougher surfaces without the excessive dive you get with conventional forks; out back, Paralever delivers 135 mm of compliant travel and shaft stability.

Tire sizes are 120/70 ZR17 (front) and 160/60 ZR18 (rear), a balanced setup for stability and long-distance tire life. The frame is a 3-part tubular space frame with the engine as a stressed element, contributing to a solid, precise feel. Fuel capacity is a generous 26 L (6.9 US gal), reinforcing its touring intent and stretching your range between stops. Other notable details include air/oil cooling, Bosch FR6 DDC spark plugs, a 12 V/700 W alternator to support touring electrics, and a shaft final drive for clean, low-maintenance power delivery.

Who Is the 2000 BMW R1100RT For?

This is an ideal machine for experienced riders who value composure, comfort, and durability over razor-edge sport handling. Daily commuters will appreciate the broad torque and weather-ready ergonomics, while weekend tourers will love the range afforded by the 26 L tank and relaxed engine character. Newer riders can grow into it, but the size and BMW R1100RT weight make it better suited to riders confident at low speeds and slow maneuvers.

Torquepedia Verdict

If you’re shopping classic sport-tourers, the 2000 BMW R1100RT stands out for its stable chassis, roomy ergonomics, and low-maintenance shaft drive. The 1085 cc boxer’s 90 hp and 95 Nm deliver real-world thrust where it matters, and the Bosch-injected response is smooth and predictable. Telelever/Paralever suspension, strong brakes, and a stout frame give it a planted, unflappable feel on imperfect roads.

On the flip side, the 282 kg wet weight requires respect at walking pace, and the character is tuned more for fast, smooth progress than razor-sharp corner carving. Still, combine the adjustable seat height with the long-range 26 L tank and you have a compelling, highly capable tourer. For riders prioritizing comfort, stability, and classic BMW engineering, it’s a smart pick.

FAQ

• Is the 2000 BMW R1100RT good for beginners? It can be, but the 282 kg (621 lb) wet weight and overall size make it better for riders with some experience or confident learners.

• What is the seat height of the 2000 BMW R1100RT? The BMW R1100RT seat height is adjustable: 780/800/820 mm.

• How heavy is the 2000 BMW R1100RT? BMW R1100RT weight is 282 kg (621 lb) wet.

• What are the power and torque figures? Power is 90 hp (66 kW) at 7,250 rpm and torque is 95 Nm (70 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm.

• What is the top speed of the 2000 BMW R1100RT? Top speed is 196 km/h (122 mph).