BMW R 1250 RS - 2021 Specifications and Reviews

The 2021 BMW R 1250 RS is a versatile adventure-sport motorcycle that appeals to experienced riders seeking a balanced blend of on-road performance and light off-road capability. Powered by a 1254cc boxer twin producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque, it excels at comfortable long-distance touring while maintaining responsive handling and genuine adventure credentials. Known for its iconic boxer engine character, sophisticated electronics, and BMW's legendary reliability, the R 1250 RS remains a benchmark middleweight adventure bike.

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General information

Price as new3.6  Check out the detailed rating of off-road capabilities, engine performance, maintenance cost, etc. Compare with any other bike.
CategoryEnduro / offroad
Year2021
ModelBMW R 1250 RS
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Emission detailsClosed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-4
Greenhouse gases109.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.70 litres/100 km (21.3 km/l or 50.05 mpg)
DrivelineConstant mesh
ClutchMultiplate wet clutch, hydraulically operated
Transmission typeShaft drive (cardan)   (final drive)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system
Valves per Cylinder4
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 76.0 mm (4.0 x 3.0 inches)
Compression12.5:1
Top speed201.2 km/h (125.0 mph)
Torque143.0 Nm (14.6 kgf-m or 105.5 ft.lbs) @ 6250 RPM
Power136.0 HP (99.3 kW) @ 7750 RPM
Engine detailsBalancer shaft
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Capacity:1254.0 ccm (76.52 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsCast aluminum
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. Floating disc. Two-piston calipers.
Diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. Floating discs. Four-piston calipers.
Rear tire180/55-ZR17
Front tire120/70-ZR17
Rear wheel travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionCast aluminum single-sided swing arm with BMW Paralever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable
Front wheel travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Front SuspensionUpside-down telescopic fork, Ø 45 mm
Trail111 mm (4.4 inches)
Rake (fork angle)26.7°
Frame typeTwo-section frame, front- and bolted on rear frame, load-bearing engine
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity4.00 litres (1.06 US gallons)
Fuel capacity18.00 litres (4.76 US gallons)
Wheelbase1530 mm (60.2 inches)
Overall width925 mm (36.4 inches)
Overall length2202 mm (86.7 inches)
Overall height1255 mm (49.4 inches)
Seat height820 mm (32.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc243.0 kg (535.7 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsAdjustable Windshield. 2 Ride Modes (Rain/Road). Automatic Stability Control.
LightLED
ElectricalThree-phase 508 W generator. 12 V / 12 Ah, maintenance-free battery.
StarterElectric
Color optionsBlack Storm Metallic, Style Sport Yellow, Style Exclusive Blue

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

136 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph
125 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track45%
City65%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding85%
Touring95%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to licensed intermediate to experienced riders who want strong performance without a full sportbike commitment; note the listed category of Enduro/offroad is a data mismatch, as this is actually a sport-touring roadster.
PurposeDesigned for fast, comfortable long-distance riding that also handles spirited backroad cornering with ease.
Rider FitA manageable but substantial machine at 243 kg with an 820 mm seat height, requiring reasonable rider confidence and leg strength at low speed.
CharacterA refined, torquey boxer-twin sport-tourer that blends shaft-drive durability with sharp handling and premium electronics.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for riders seeking a lightweight city commuter, true off-road capability, or a budget-friendly first bike.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2021 BMW R 1250 RS Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 820mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2021 BMW R 1250 RS, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (1)

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS Aug 2020 · 20V495000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 R 1250 RT, R 1250 R, R 1250 RS, R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure motorcycles. The tire pressure labels may not remain affixed to the motorcycle frame. As a result, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 120, "Wheels and Rims-Other Than Passenger Cars."

Risk: If the label detaches from the motorcycle, proper tire pressure information may not be readily available. This could result in the rider improperly filling the tires which may affect motorcycle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the tire pressure label, free of charge. The recall began October 19, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

Rider Reviews

Total comments: 1
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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2021 BMW R 1250 RS is a powerful and versatile motorcycle that offers a smooth and responsive ride. With its 1254cc engine, it delivers impressive performance while maintaining great fuel efficiency. The bike's sporty design and comfortable ergonomics make it a great choice for riders looking for a balance of agility and comfort. Its advanced technology, including dynamic traction control and riding modes, enhances the overall riding experience, making it suitable for both casual cruising and spirited riding. Overall, the 2021 BMW R 1250 RS is a top-notch motorcycle that offers a great combination of power, agility, and comfort. Its advanced features and sleek design make it a standout choice for riders looking for a versatile and high-performance bike. Whether you're riding on twisty backroads or cruising on the highway, the R 1250 RS delivers an exhilarating and refined experience. If you're in the market for a premium motorcycle that offers both performance and comfort, the R 1250 RS is definitely worth considering.
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