BMW R1300RS Blasts B Roads and Autobahns in a Breeze

The highly acclaimed BMW R1300 RS is the Sports Tourer of the R models and excels in the class. It has increased its capacity like its cousins, the GS and the RT, and like them, its design too. The Road Tests and Reviews team takes the Mile Muncher to the Cotswolds for fast twisty roads and beautiful long straights.

BMW has made several changes to the R1300 RS, giving it increased power, a sportier riding position, a smaller tank, and a better weight distribution for a better ride. Output is now 143bhp, and you can feel the differences when pushing on at pace. Like its cousins, you can opt for the BMW ASA semi-auto gearbox, Radar-assisted cruise, and anti-collision function.

Perched on the new RS, it's immediately clear that this motorcycle embodies a true sporting spirit. Its design is strikingly more compact—noticeably slimmer, shorter, and lower than the 1250. This size reduction creates a sleeker profile that, while less imposing, offers a more agile appearance. The riding position is distinctly sport-oriented; the rider leans down to grasp the lower, flatter handlebars that are set wider apart than one might typically expect. This configuration shifts the rider's weight forward, engaging their wrists, especially at lower speeds, which enhances the responsiveness and connection to the bike..

The BMW R1300 RS boasts a robust steel plate frame that provides a solid foundation for its performance. It’s equipped with conventional upside-down (USD) forks, paired with an updated Paralever shaft system at the rear, ensuring a refined balance of comfort and control. For those seeking an edge in handling, the RS Performance model features a stiffer ‘Sports’ shock that sharpens the ride even further. Alternatively, the Triple Black variant takes technology to the next level with its high-end semi-active suspension system. This system offers continuously variable damping that can be customised between various riding modes, alongside new ‘adaptive spring rate’ forks that dynamically respond to the road conditions.

The result is an impressive harmony between comfort and agility, allowing the RS to effortlessly glide over uneven surfaces. Its enhanced bump absorption capabilities surpass those of the previous R1250RS, smoothing out even the harshest potholes and speed humps with remarkable ease. As the pace picks up, the R1300 RS reveals its true prowess; the front end grips tightly and confidently during braking, providing a level of control that is both reassuring and exhilarating, enabling riders to tackle corners and descents with unyielding precision.

BMW offers an intriguing optional feature for the RS model known as the Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), priced at £870. This innovative technology transforms the bike into a robust clutchless twist-and-go machine, enhancing the riding experience through the use of dual servos that automatically engage the clutch and shift gears. These actions are managed based on sophisticated factory algorithms and the selected rider mode.

In manual mode, the experience remains traditional, allowing riders to change gears using their foot as they usually would. However, there’s no clutch lever to operate, making the process entirely clutchless. Notably, the bike's system automatically disengages the clutch when at a standstill, effectively eliminating the risk of stalling—a particularly reassuring feature for riders.

When engaging in auto mode, riders will find that shifts are executed smoothly, typically aligning with their riding intensity. Nevertheless, the timing isn’t always precise, making manual mode a more appealing choice for those who desire greater control over their gear changes. The ASA does impress with its low-speed clutch management, seamlessly navigating the transition from a complete stop to slow crawling speeds with commendable grace. However, a touch of the rear brake is still recommended for those moments when ultimate finesse is required.

There is a layer of complexity associated with manoeuvring the BMW R1300 RS while the engine is turned off. To push the bike around, one must engage the parking function, which requires the ignition to be turned on. This process demands that the rider simultaneously presses down on the gear lever while holding the front brake to successfully engage neutral. This extra step adds a bit of nuance to an otherwise straightforward operation, reflecting the balance of modern technology and traditional biking.

The seat of the new BMW R1300 RS is designed to be flatter and thinner, presenting a sleek profile that enhances its sporty character. While BMW asserts that the seat height is reduced by 5mm, the section where the rider sits actually feels higher compared to the 1250 model. This design shift is complemented by a two-way manually adjustable windscreen, which is also lower, emphasising the motorcycle’s sportier orientation rather than its touring capabilities.

In terms of handling, the R1300 RS doesn't exhibit quicker steering than its predecessor, the 1250. It features a 190/55 rear tire, as opposed to the 180/55 of the 1250, along with a longer trail that ensures remarkable stability. However, the sportier riding position along with a front-biased weight distribution imbues the new RS with a more aggressive, committed riding stance.

When it comes to performance, the 1300cc engine is a powerhouse of torque and refinement. Upon starting, the engine no longer exhibits the old rocking motion; instead, it settles into a smooth and satisfying low burble. With a firm twist of the throttle, the R1300 RS rapidly propels itself forward, effortlessly devouring miles in a stunning display of pulsating power. The speedometer climbs impressively as it reaches 70mph at a leisurely 3600rpm in top gear. With slightly longer gearing than the naked BMW R1300R, there’s ample opportunity to explore the thrilling limits up to a 9000rpm redline. This motorcycle delivers a dense surge of energy, whether you're cruising at a relaxed pace or pushing harder for that exhilarating ride. It’s an impressively robust yet remarkably refined engine, impeccably suited for a dual role as both a sports machine and a touring companion.

However, the fuel tank capacity may not be as accommodating for long-distance touring; at 17 liters, it’s smaller than that of the R1250 RS. BMW claims that improved fuel economy offsets this limitation. During our testing, we observed an average of 43 miles per gallon, translating to a range of approximately 160 miles per tank. With more conservative riding, it's conceivable to stretch this closer to 200 miles, but achieving BMW’s ambitious claim of 58 miles per gallon would require extraordinary self-discipline.

We had the opportunity to test ride the BMW R1300 RS SE ASA Triple Black edition, which comes equipped with the Comfort package featuring heated grips and a heated seat, as well as the Dynamic package that includes semi-active suspension and additional rider modes. The base price for this impressive model stands at £17,445.

Once you start adding extras, like the Touring pack—which provides pannier brackets (though it does not include the panniers themselves)—along with appealing features such as an Akrapovic exhaust and raised clip-on handlebars, the price escalates to a noteworthy £20,785. This places the R1300 RS SE ASA Triple Black at the higher end of the sports-tourer spectrum. For comparison, the ever-popular Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX comes in at a more accessible £13,999, while Yamaha's feature-rich Tracer GT+ is priced at £17,004, making the R1300 a significant investment in its category.

Equipment

Regrettably, the R1300RS arrives without panniers, a surprising oversight given its designation as a touring motorcycle where such features are typically expected as standard. Furthermore, the absence of radar-assisted cruise control in the base model is a notable shortcoming, especially considering how beneficial this technology would be for long-distance riders.

The bike is equipped with BMW's sophisticated collision avoidance system, which is designed to enhance safety by flashing a dashboard warning and automatically applying the brakes if it detects a slower or stationary vehicle ahead. However, riders have reported that this system can occasionally be overly sensitive, particularly when navigating through traffic with finesse. For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, the option to deactivate it exists, allowing the rider to maintain complete control and awareness of their surroundings.

The Dynamic package includes BMW's ASA automatic transmission. In this innovative feature, servos manage both clutch and gear changes based on complex algorithms that analyse the bike’s status and the rider's behaviour. This design eliminates the need for a traditional clutch lever; instead, the gear lever functions as an electronic switch. In Auto mode, the experience becomes a seamless twist-and-go operation: simply shift the RS into first gear and accelerate. The transitions between gears are notably smooth, occurring with a timing that aligns closely with the rider's expectations, providing a user-friendly experience that enhances the joy of riding.

Summing up.

The BMW R1300 RS is a motorcycle that embodies the brand's renowned reputation for quality and reliability. As you dive into the world of this bike, you can expect an impressive blend of robustness and innovative technology. The engine is a true standout, delivering exhilarating performance when you crave thrill and excitement. Yet, it also possesses the ability to cruise comfortably all day, making it an ideal companion for long-distance touring adventures.

Recent updates from BMW have refined the R1300 RS, enhancing its overall feel and ride experience. The result is a motorcycle that not only stands out aesthetically but also performs exceptionally well, placing it among the elite in the sports touring category. With its perfect balance of power and comfort, the R1300 RS is definitely a top contender for those seeking an exceptional ride.

The base RS starts at £13,700, the Triple Black version starts at £17,445 and reaches £20,075 with accessories.