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Review: The dynamic BMW R 1200 RT

Reviews image The RT ‘Boxer’ is the most successful BMW tourer ever. The R 1150 RT has consistently been a market leader, enjoying a particularly loyal customer base despite repeated attempts from other manufacturers to capture a market share.

Its successor – the R 1200 RT – is the second model of the new Boxer generation and is destined to become the ultimate touring machine. It has been improved significantly in all the areas. It is more powerful than its predecessor, faster, significantly lighter, has improved wind and weather protection, better fuel economy and an increased tank range (as well as longer service intervals than its competitors).

With 16 per cent more power, driving approximately 20kg less weight, the R 1200 RT delivers a considerable boost in dynamic performance and provides even greater agility than its predecessor.

Combined with excellent rid­ing characteristics, superior riding comfort, an expansive new body design (for more effective protection from the elements), extensive rider/passenger ergonom­ics and adjustments, and many other unique BMW practical riding features, the new R 1200 RT is destined to become the industry’s most versatile, and dedicated, long distance touring machine.

The gearbox has been improved once again by detailed optimisation of the shift mechanism so that shifting gears is smooth and precise. This is characterised by the extra-short gear travel between gears. Designed for active riding, sixth gear is especially short and therefore dynamic. The optimum gear increments enable fast acceleration from 0–100 km/h in an impressive 3.6 seconds.

The R 1200 RT is without a doubt a substantial evolution in the tourer segment and comes with optional Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) as seen on the new K1200 S.

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