BMW R 1200 RT SE - 2018 Specifications and Reviews

Powered by a new air/water cooled 1170.00cc two cylinder Boxer engine derived from the 2013 R1200GS, producing 125bhp (15 bhp more than the previous model where the engine was air/oil cooled).  

The BMW R1200RT also benefits from a larger central mass on the crankshaft/alternator to make everything a bit more smooth. 

Visually it is easy to identify against the previous model, as the black inserts on the cylinder heads face forwards rather than down and there is a new meaner looking headlight design.

The much acclaimed adjustable windscreen receives an update with an extra level of screen protection at the sides, under the adjustable main section. 

Wheels are both are 17" cast Aluminium with 120/70 ZR17 tyres up front and 180/60 ZR17 at the rear. 

The dashboard also get a big re-design with a new central 5.7" TFT colour screen and onboard computer. To aid readability the screen can be angled slightly forward or backwards. 

Optional Extras include two additional riding modes (Dynamic/Hill Start), audio system, "Gear Shift Pro" adds a quick shifter option, Dynamic ESA adds semi-active electronically adjustable suspension and central locking (ignition, panniers, top box, compartments) can be ordered with the optional alarm as a package. You can also go for an Akropvic end can, cruise control, tyre pressure monitor, second power socket, heated grip, heated seat and a massive selection of storage options. All of the electronics are controlled by the multi control on the left handlebar in conjunction with the screen.

The LE edition comes with most of the options as standard at far less than adding them all individually: ESA, Gear Shift Pro, central locking, alarm, cruise control, chrome exhaust, heated grips and seat. 

Timeline

2016 saw BMW release the R1200RT LC Iconic limited edition, alongside similar editions for the RS/GS/GSA. All of them are limited to 100 units and come with with special paint schemes, so don-t expect to see many for sale! The paint scheme is a tasty candy red with matching luggage and pretty much all the options thrown in.

2017: A few small changes to meet Euro 4 requirements, sidelights and judder damper on transmission output shaft. Cornering ABS Pro and dynamic brake light now options. New black and white colour schemes released while previous black/grey and blue are no longer available.

2018: Cornering ABS Pro now standard. Dynamic traction control and Emergency SOS call from the handlebar button now options. Spezial paint schemes and parts now available to add a bit of bling e.g. brown seat and bronze/silver colour scheme.