With armchair comfort and excellent weather protection, the R1150RT is the best long distance tourer from BMW yet. And it's not just an autobahn cruiser - the big Beemer handles surprisingly well, so that you can eat up the twisties when you get to the end of the motorway.
Developed from the R1100RT, which was in production for over five years - plenty of time to sort out any design issues - the R1150RT has an 1130cc Boxer engine, an increase of 45cc over its predecessor. Maximum power from the four valves per cylinder engine is up from 90 to 95bhp at 7250rpm, maximum torque has increased from 95Nm (70lb-ft) to 100Nm (74lb-ft) at 5000rpm and more than 90Nm (66lb-ft) is consistently available between 3000 and 6500rpm, providing significantly more low down power.
The R1150RT has a six-speed gearbox designed especially for comfortable touring. The tall sixth gear acts as an overdrive, reducing engine speed and, accordingly, fuel consumption. Lighter, cast aluminium wheels reduce unsprung weight and the front wheel features the newly developed EVO brake. BMW's integral ABS system is fitted as standard.
The new headlight system and upper fairing section characterise the new face of the R1150RT. Like the four-cylinder K1200RS, the R1150 RT also features two foglamps at the sides. The upper part of the fairing has been totally redesigned to match the new headlight system, yet retains the excellent wind and weather protection that the R1100RT offered.
The rider's seat comes with even better thigh support and four height different settings. Shorter riders also have a lower seat option. As befits a genuine tourer, the R1150RT comes equipped with two system cases and an integrated luggage rack as standard.
The R1150RT is available in a choice of four colours: aquamint metallic, titanium silver metallic, dark blue metallic and red metallic. Optional extras include heated grips, a radio kit with speakers, a radio cassette player, multi-tone horn, topcase, tankbag, cylinder protection bars and an alarm system.
With a top speed of 130mph and 45mpg at touring speeds, the R1150RT is the perfect bike for shrinking continents.
