SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 29, 2025 – BMW Motorrad USA has officially unveiled the eagerly awaited 2026 BMW R 1300 RT, and it’s nothing short of a game-changer for motorcycle touring enthusiasts. With a bold redesign, enhanced comfort, and cutting-edge technology, the new R 1300 RT offers riders a perfect blend of performance, luxury, and usability—making every journey more exciting and enjoyable.
Engineered for Effortless Power and Precision
At the heart of the 2026 R 1300 RT lies a newly developed 1,300 cc air/liquid-cooled boxer engine, delivering 145 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. This is the most powerful boxer engine BMW has ever produced, designed to thrill both solo adventurers and two-up tourers.
“With significantly more power and torque than its predecessor, the boxer engine of the new BMW R 1300 RT is the perfect partner for sporty, dynamic touring and travelling,” said Andreas Kowitz, Vehicle Concept Manager.
Despite the added power, the R 1300 RT maintains excellent fuel efficiency and smoothness—ideal for long-distance rides and urban commutes alike.
Advanced Comfort Meets Intelligent Technology
BMW has taken rider and passenger comfort to new heights. The newly available Comfort Passenger Package includes heated seats, a heated backrest, and even heated grips for the passenger—perfect for those chilly morning starts or high-altitude rides.
Key ergonomic enhancements include:
- A more forward rider position for improved control
- Adjustable seat height and tilt options
- Roomier footrests and longer passenger seat
BMW’s automatic ASA Shift Assistant brings a new level of ease, allowing riders to choose between manual and automatic shifting. “ASA really comes into its own when using shift mode 'D',” the company states, offering smooth transitions and added safety.
A Smarter Way to Ride
The 2026 R 1300 RT is packed with innovations designed to elevate safety and convenience. It features a new 10.25-inch full-color TFT display with integrated map navigation and smartphone connectivity, all managed via a simplified Multicontroller.
Optional Riding Assistant features include:
- Active Cruise Control with radar-guided distance monitoring
- Frontal Collision Warning and Lane Change Warning
- Adaptive lighting with the Headlight Pro system for enhanced visibility during night rides or in curves
Dynamic Chassis for Confident Touring
The newly developed chassis integrates a steel main frame and aluminum rear frame, combining stability with lightweight performance. Riders can fine-tune their experience with BMW’s optional Dynamic Chassis Adjustment (DCA), offering:
- Two distinct suspension profiles
- Automatic load compensation
- A new "Prop-Up Aid" for easier use of the center stand
This makes switching from laid-back highway cruising to twisty mountain roads smoother and more responsive than ever.
Design that Moves You—Literally and Emotionally
From a visual standpoint, the new R 1300 RT features a slimmer, more athletic profile. Riders can choose from four styles: Alpine White, Style Triple Black, Style Impulse, and the luxurious Option 719 Camargue—with hand-painted pinstriping and premium finishes.
BMW designer Matthias Kottmann explains, “We were able to achieve a significantly lighter and more dynamic appearance by reducing the visual mass of the motorcycle... improving the real benefit in the form of a better overview of the rider's immediate surroundings.”
Availability and Pricing
The 2026 BMW R 1300 RT is expected to hit U.S. dealerships in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025 with a starting MSRP of $22,495 (plus destination fee; price subject to change). A variety of customization packages and accessories will be available, ensuring each rider can tailor the R 1300 RT to their exact needs and style.
Ready to Ride into the Future?
Whether you're chasing the horizon or weaving through city streets, the new BMW R 1300 RT promises to make every mile memorable. Comfort, technology, and power come together like never before.
Learn more at www.bmwmotorcycles.com