Bmw R 1300 Rs, what the new German sports tourer looks like

After the naked R - and in anticipation of the Rt tourer - the 1,300 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine that made its successful debut on the eternal "endurona" Gs also arrives on the sport tourer, the Rs, available in four trim levels (basic, Triple Black, Performance and Option 719 Cuyamaca), with prices starting at around 18,000 euro). In the family of models with a boxer engine, the Rs since its birth in 1976 represents the one most dedicated to sporty driving, always however, in a delicate balance, never forgetting the touring vocation that is in the DNA of the BMW "R".

The new boxer replaces the previous 1,254 cc engine, compared to which it has a larger bore and a new crankshaft with reduced stroke; it delivers 145 hp (or more than its predecessor) with a maximum torque of 149 Nm (6 more than its predecessor): it is the most powerful series-production BMW boxer engine ever produced. There are three standard riding modes (Road, Rain and Eco) on the new Rs, as well as the Engine Torque Release (Msr) system which prevents the rear wheel from slipping. Optional extras include the Automated shift assistant (Asa) with fully automated clutch and a choice of manual or automatic transmission, and Active cruise control with numerous features including Front collision warning and Lane change warning. To accommodate the new (more compact) boxer, the sheet steel chassis has been renewed, with a higher level of rigidity than the previous model, and a die-cast aluminium rear frame instead of steel. And the suspension is also new: 47 mm upside-down telescopic fork and the Evo Paralever, with the option of adding the electronic Dynamic suspension adjustment (Dsa) that adapts the damping and spring rate and automatically compensates for the load.

The handlebar-pedal-saddle triangle has changed: to position the rider further forward of the rear wheel (and adopt a more sporty and responsive riding style) the footpegs have been set back slightly and combined with flatter handlebars. Obviously without forcing the rider into a tiring position on long rides; however, comfort handlebars are also an option.

Also among the accessories Bmw offers for the Rs saddles of different heights and a new luggage system with electrified cases and topcases that can be unlocked with the central locking system. The cases have a capacity of 26 and 29 litres, while the topcase can hold 39 litres; all have internal lighting, while the left case and topcase incorporate a USB-C charging port.