2026 BMW R 1300 RS Specs & Review

The R 1300 RS is BMW Motorrad’s faired sport‑tourer for riders who want boxer character with real long‑distance pace and modern rider aids. If you’re cross‑shopping fast, comfortable mile‑eaters, the 2026 BMW R 1300 RS specs deliver a compelling blend of torque-rich performance, stability and everyday usability. This BMW R 1300 RS review focuses on how those numbers translate to the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1300
• Power: 145 hp @ 7,750 rpm
• Torque: 149 Nm / 110 lb‑ft @ 6,500 rpm
• BMW R 1300 RS weight (wet): 245
• BMW R 1300 RS seat height: 790 (standard); options: 31.1–33.3 in
• Engine: Air/liquid‑cooled 2‑cylinder boxer with BMW ShiftCam, DOHC, counterbalance shaft

Engine & Performance

BMW’s latest 2‑cylinder boxer brings 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm (110 lb‑ft) at 6,500 rpm, backed by BMW ShiftCam and a counterbalance shaft for smoothness. On the road, that torque figure defines the bike: easy roll‑on thrust for quick overtakes in top gear, relaxed highway cruising, and immediate drive off slow corners. A 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) time of 3.2 s underscores the RS’s punch off the line, while a top speed of 152 mph confirms its long‑legged sport‑touring intent.

The bore x stroke of 106.5 mm x 73.0 mm points to an eager‑revving, oversquare character without sacrificing midrange pull. A 6‑speed manual with shaft drive keeps maintenance low and drive delivery clean; the ASA automatic shift assistant is optional if you want clutchless up/down shifts. The wet multi‑plate clutch features anti‑hopping and hydraulic operation for smooth launches and calm downshifts.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 1300 RS Seat Height

Chassis stability comes from a steel main frame with a bolt‑on aluminum rear section, using the engine as a stressed member. Geometry is tuned for confidence and composure: a 28° steering head angle, 122 mm (4.8 in) of trail, and a 1524 mm (60.0 in) wheelbase. Up front, a 47 mm USD fork provides 139.7 mm (5.5 in) travel; the rear EVO Paralever II delivers 129.5 mm (5.1 in). Dynamic ESA is standard, and the optional Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) adds adjustable spring rate for a more tailored feel.

The BMW R 1300 RS weight is listed at 245 (wet), which translates to planted stability on fast sweepers and a reassuring ride with luggage. At low speeds, the boxer’s low center of gravity helps mask mass when filtering or U‑turning. Tire sizes are sport‑focused—120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear—on 17‑inch aluminum cast wheels (3.50 x 17 front / 6.00 x 17 rear) for precise steering response.

As for fit, the standard BMW R 1300 RS seat height is 790, with factory options spanning 31.1–33.3 in to accommodate a wide range of riders. Shorter riders will appreciate the confidence the lower settings provide at stoplights, while taller riders can opt for the higher perch to open knee angle and improve long‑distance comfort.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is stout: twin 310 mm front discs with 4‑piston radially mounted calipers and a single 285 mm rear disc with a 2‑piston floating caliper. BMW Motorrad Fully Integral ABS Pro is standard for confident braking when leaned over.

Electronics include DTC, DBC, MSR, and Dynamic Cruise Control. You also get a 6.5‑inch TFT with Connectivity, Keyless Ride, 12V and USB‑C sockets, and Intelligent Emergency Call. Riding modes are Rain, Road, and Eco as standard, with Dynamic and Dynamic Pro available as options to sharpen responses.

Lighting is full LED, and Headlight Pro with adaptive cornering light is optional. The electrical system features a 650 W generator, 12 V 10 Ah battery, and a 900 W starter. Fuel tank capacity is 17.0 L / 4.5 gal, and color/style choices include Racing Blue Metallic, Style Triple Black, Style Performance Light White, and Option 719 Brooklyn Grey (Cuyamaca).

For transmission feel, the 6‑speed manual and shaft drive come standard, with ASA automatic shift assistant optional for clutchless gear changes.

Market and pricing: MSRP US (base) is $16,995 plus destination, with a Base price EU (Austria) of €18,890 (launch July 2025). Market launch is slated for late Q3 to early Q4 2025 (model year 2026).

Who Is the 2026 BMW R 1300 RS For?

This is a sport‑tourer for experienced riders who want real-world speed, modern safety tech, and day‑long comfort without going full‑boat grand touring. It fits commuters who value shaft drive and electronics as much as weekend riders chasing corners. With seat height options from 31.1–33.3 in and Dynamic ESA as standard, it suits a wide range of body types and riding styles.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 BMW R 1300 RS specs paint a picture of a balanced, torque‑rich sport‑tourer: 145 hp, 149 Nm, and a boxer layout that brings both character and composure. The chassis geometry, 47 mm USD fork, EVO Paralever II, and 17‑inch rubber should deliver stability on fast roads and accuracy in transitions, while Dynamic ESA and optional DSA widen the sweet spot for varied payloads and riding moods.

Strengths include a deep electronics suite, robust brakes with ABS Pro, shaft‑drive practicality, and a generous 6.5‑inch TFT with connectivity. Potential downsides? The listed BMW R 1300 RS weight of 245 suggests solid touring poise rather than featherweight flickability. Still, with 0–62 mph in 3.2 s and a 152 mph top speed, this RS backs comfort with serious pace. In the sport‑touring class, it’s a compelling, tech‑rich option for riders who want boxer performance and BMW refinement.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 BMW R 1300 RS good for beginners?

  • With 145 hp and a 0–62 mph time of 3.2 s, it’s more suitable for riders with some experience. Newer riders may prefer something less powerful before stepping up.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 BMW R 1300 RS?

  • Standard BMW R 1300 RS seat height is 790, with factory options spanning 31.1–33.3 in.

• How heavy is the 2026 BMW R 1300 RS?

  • BMW R 1300 RS weight is listed at 245 (wet).

• What are the power and torque figures?

  • 145 hp @ 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm / 110 lb‑ft @ 6,500 rpm.

• When does it launch and how much does it cost?

  • Market launch is late Q3 to early Q4 2025 (model year 2026). MSRP US (base) is $16,995 plus destination; Base price EU (Austria) is €18,890 (launch July 2025).