2018 BMW R 1200 RT Specs & Review

BMW’s R 1200 RT is a benchmark sport-tourer for riders who want distance comfort without giving up dynamic handling. With a torquey boxer twin, advanced chassis, and long-haul ergonomics, it targets enthusiasts who commute during the week and crush miles on weekends.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1170 cc
• Power: 125 hp @ 7,750 rpm
• Torque: 125 Nm / 92 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
• Engine type: Air/liquid-cooled 4-stroke flat twin (boxer), DOHC, 8 valves
• Wet weight: 274 kg / 604 lb
• Seat height: 805 / 825 mm (optional seats from 760 to 850 mm)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT specs is the classic 1170 cc DOHC boxer twin (engine code 122EN), fed by electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire. Output is a healthy 125 hp at 7,750 rpm and 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm, giving the RT effortless roll-on power for quick overtakes and relaxed highway cruising. The boxer layout’s inherent smoothness and character shine in everyday use, pulling strongly from midrange and rewarding short-shifting.

A 6-speed transmission and shaft final drive deliver fuss-free touring with minimal maintenance. Top speed is over 200 km/h (124+ mph), but the real story is the way the torque plateau makes city riding calm and controlled, while backroad fun is just a throttle twist away. For long days in the saddle, that broad torque curve reduces the need to hunt for gears, helping conserve energy and keep the ride flowing.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 1200 RT Seat Height

Ergonomics are upright and relaxed, with a fairing designed for mile-eating comfort. The BMW R 1200 RT seat height is adjustable between 805 and 825 mm, and BMW also offers optional seats ranging from 760 to 850 mm, making it easier to tailor fit for shorter and taller riders. The 274 kg (604 lb) BMW R 1200 RT weight is on the substantial side, but it’s well balanced. At low speeds, the boxer’s low mass placement helps the bike feel more manageable than the number suggests.

Front suspension is BMW’s Telelever with a 37 mm central spring strut and 120 mm (4.7 in) of travel, which reduces dive under braking and keeps geometry stable. Out back, a single-sided swingarm with BMW EVO Paralever uses a WAD strut with preload and rebound adjustability and 136 mm (5.4 in) of travel. The geometry—26.4° rake, 116 mm (4.6 in) trail, and a 1485 mm (58.5 in) wheelbase—strikes a sweet spot for neutral steering and long-distance stability. Tire sizes are sport-oriented (120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear), giving plenty of grip and quick warm-up for spirited touring.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is strong and confidence-inspiring: dual 320 mm front discs with 4-piston fixed calipers and a 276 mm rear disc with a 2-piston floating caliper. For 2018, BMW Motorrad Integral ABS with ABS Pro (cornering ABS) is standard, a major safety update that enhances braking composure while leaned over. Dynamic Traction Control (with Ride Modes Pro) is available as an option, as is BMW’s Emergency Call feature.

The chassis is a two-section tubular steel frame with the engine-gearbox unit as a stressed member, contributing to rigidity without unnecessary bulk. A hydraulically operated, oil‑lubricated wet clutch keeps lever effort reasonable, while the shaft drive underscores long-distance, low-maintenance practicality. Fuel capacity is 25 L (6.6 US gal) with an approximate 4 L reserve, perfect for stretching legs between fuel stops. Electricals include a 540 W three‑phase alternator and a maintenance-free 12 V / 16 Ah battery.

Styling and finish are up to the brand’s sport-touring standards, with 2018 colors including Alpine White, Carbon Black Metallic, and Mars Red Metallic / Dark Slate Metallic Matt, plus special options Blue Planet Metallic and Sparkling Storm Metallic. The US base MSRP is US$ 18,395.

Who Is the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT For?

This is an ideal choice for experienced riders who want a refined sport-tourer capable of weekday commuting and serious weekend mileage. Its balanced power delivery, standard cornering ABS, and adjustable ergonomics make it appealing for solo or two-up travel. Newer riders may find the BMW R 1200 RT weight and overall size a bit much, but those stepping up from middleweights will appreciate the stability, weather protection, and easy torque.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a complete package, the R 1200 RT blends long-haul comfort with engaging performance. The engine’s 125 hp and 125 Nm output, the stability of Telelever/Paralever, and standard ABS Pro give it an edge for confident touring in varying conditions. The adjustable seat and generous 25 L tank further reinforce its do-it-all road prowess.

On the downside, the mass is noticeable in tight parking lots, and some riders may need the optional lower or higher seat to dial in fit. But taken as a whole—and as this BMW R 1200 RT review makes clear—the 2018 model remains a top pick for riders comparing premium sport-tourers who value real-world speed, safety tech, and all-day comfort.

FAQ

• Is the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT good for beginners? It’s manageable and very refined, but its 274 kg (604 lb) wet weight and 125 hp favor riders with some experience, especially at low speeds.

• What is the seat height of the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT? Standard seat height is 805 or 825 mm, with optional seats ranging from 760 to 850 mm.

• How heavy is the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT? Wet weight is 274 kg (604 lb).

• What are the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT specs for power and torque? Power is 125 hp at 7,750 rpm and torque is 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm.

• What is the top speed of the 2018 BMW R 1200 RT? Over 200 km/h (124+ mph).