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2020 BMW R 1250RT Overview
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 1254 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine running Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.5:1. 2020 BMW R 1250RT delivers 136 hp @ 7750 rpm of peak power and 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 201 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2020 R 1250RT tips the scales at 279 kg, carries a 25-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 805 mm to 825 mm and spans a 1485 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 109.5 kg heavier than the average enduro / off-road motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2020 BMW R 1250RT spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2020 BMW R 1250RT compared with other bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category
Here is how the 2020 BMW R 1250RT stacks up against other bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1434 models.
- Torque of 143 Nm is higher than that of 806 of the other 815 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category.
- Only 12 of the other 1433 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category have a larger engine displacement than the 1254 cc of the R 1250RT.
- With 279 kg, the R 1250RT has the 15th heaviest wet weight of 774 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category, 65% above the category average of 169.5 kg.
- Narrowing the field to the 291 models within five model years of it, the torque of 143 Nm is higher than that of 281 of the other 290.
Versus the 2019 model
The figures we track are unchanged from the 2019 model: peak power, peak torque, wet weight, displacement and seat height all match.
2020 R 1250RT - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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⚡
Strong power output: 2020 BMW R 1250RT makes 136 hp @ 7750 rpm with 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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🔧
Fuel injection: The Electronic intake pipe injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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🛑
Strong front braking: The disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
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⛽
Large fuel range: The 25-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
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⚙️
Low-maintenance final drive: Shaft final drive means no chain to clean, lube or adjust - meaningfully less routine maintenance than a chain-driven equivalent.
Considerations
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ℹ️
Age-related wear: As with any used R 1250RT, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.
Wear Points & Servicing Notes
Heat management in traffic
R 1250RT's air-cooled design means engine-bay temperatures build up more in stop-start traffic than on a liquid-cooled equivalent - a function of the cooling method itself, not a defect. Mesh riding gear and avoiding prolonged idling help in hot climates.
Fuelling & injector care
Fuelling comes from Electronic intake pipe injection. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.
Valve clearance checks
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation on the R 1250RT means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.
Brake disc and pad wear
The disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.
Suspension condition on used examples
Up front, the R 1250RT runs BMW Motorrad 37mm Telelever, central spring strut and Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever, WAD spring strut, continuously adjustable spring preload by means of hand wheel, rebound-stage damping adjustable by hand wheel at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.
Final drive maintenance
Final drive is by shaft - no chain or belt maintenance at all, though the drive-shaft oil should be changed on the manufacturer's interval.
Frame & chassis check
The frame is Two-section frame concept consisting of main frame with bolt-on rear frame, load-bearing engine - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.
Handling the weight at a standstill
At 279 kg, the R 1250RT is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.
R 1250RT - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2020 BMW R 1250RT with its 1254 cc enduro / off-road, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs shaft final drive, so ask for proof the shaft-drive gear oil has been changed on schedule - it's easy to overlook since there's no chain to draw attention to it. Now 6 years old, this enduro / off-road is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 1250RT should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the R 1250RT's 1254 cc two cylinder boxer, four-stroke. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With a 12.5:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The R 1250RT's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used R 1250RT. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.
2020 BMW R 1250RT - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2020 BMW R 1250RT have?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT uses a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine with 1254 cc of displacement. It is liquid / air cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2020 BMW R 1250RT?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT has a factory-quoted top speed of 201 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2020 BMW R 1250RT weigh?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT weighs 279 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2020 BMW R 1250RT make?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT produces 136 hp @ 7750 rpm of power and 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2020 BMW R 1250RT?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT has a 25-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 416-500 km between stops.
Is the 2020 BMW R 1250RT suitable for shorter riders?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT has a seat height of 805 mm to 825 mm. This is a moderate seat height that suits a wide range of rider heights.
What brakes does the 2020 BMW R 1250RT have?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT uses 2x 320mm floating discs, 4-piston radial brake calipers at the front and single 276mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2020 BMW R 1250RT use?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT runs 120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2020 BMW R 1250RT have?
The 2020 BMW R 1250RT is fitted with a Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with helical gearing system transmission.
BMW R 1250RT Spec Evolution
The BMW R 1250RT was produced across 5 model years (2019-2023). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
| Wet Weight |
279 kg / 615 lbs |
279 kg / 615 lbs |
279 kg / 615 lbs |
279 kg / 615 lbs |
279.0 kg / 615.0 lbs |
| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Balancer shaft, variable intake camshaft control. |
| Engine Type |
Twin, four-stroke |
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke |
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Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke |
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke |
| Top Speed |
- |
201.0 km/h / 124.9 mph |
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199.6 km/h / 124.0 mph |
199.6 km/h / 124.0 mph |
| Seat Height |
805 mm to 825 mm / 31.6 in to 32.4 in 760 mm to 850 mm / 29.9 in to 33.4 in - optional |
805 mm to 825 mm / 31.6 in to 32.4 in 760 mm to 850 mm / 29.9 in to 33.4 in - optional |
805 mm to 825 mm / 31.6 in to 32.4 in 830 mm to 850 mm / 32.6 in to 33.4 in - SE high seat 760 mm to 780 mm / 29.9 in to 30.7 in - low seat |
805 mm to 825 mm / 31.6 in to 32.4 in 830 mm to 850 mm / 32.6 in to 33.4 in - SE high seat 760 mm to 780 mm / 29.9 in to 30.7 in - low seat |
805 mm / 31.7 in. |
| Fuel Capacity |
25 Litres / 6.6 US gal |
25 Litres / 6.6 US gal |
25 Litres / 6.6 US gal |
25 Litres / 6.6 US gal |
25.00 litres / 6.61 US gallons |
| Storage |
Saddle bags |
- |
- |
18.4 gallons storage |
18.4 gallons storage |
| Seat Heigth -Alternate (mm) |
740 mm |
850 mm |
- |
826 mm |
826 mm |
Key Specifications
Engine
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power
136 hp / 100 kW @ 7750 rpm
Torque
143 Nm / 105.4 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm
Top Speed
201.0 km/h / 124.9 mph
Fuel Capacity
25 Litres / 6.6 US gal
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Full 2020 BMW R 1250RT Specifications
Year
2020
Make
BMW
Model
R 1250RT
Colours
Mars Red metallic/Dark Slate Metallic, Manhattan Metallic, Alpine White, Opt. 719 Stardust Metallic, Opt.719 Blue pPanet Metallic/Ivory
Make Model
BMW R 1250RT
Seat Heigth -Alternate (in.)
33.5 inches
Seat Heigth -Alternate (mm)
850 mm
Seat Height
805 mm to 825 mm / 31.6 in to 32.4 in 760 mm to 850 mm / 29.9 in to 33.4 in - optional
Wheelbase
1485 mm / 58.4 in
Height
1255 mm / 49.4 in.
Length
985 mm / 38.7 in
Width
985 mm / 38.7 in
Fuel Capacity
25 Litres / 6.6 US gal
Max Load
505 kg / 1113.3 lbs
Oil Capacity
4.0 litres
Wet Weight
279 kg / 615 lbs
CO2
109.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Engine Type
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Fuel Control
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Stroke
76.0 mm
Displacement
1254 cc / 76.5 cu-in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system
Bore x Stroke
102.5 x 76 mm
Compression Ratio
12.5:1
Cooling System
Liquid / Air cooled
Emissions
Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, exhaust standard , Euro 4
Engine Lubrication
Dry sump
Engine Management
BMS-O
Fuel Consumption
4.70 litres/100 km (21.3 km/l or 50.05 mpg)
Fuel Induction
Electronic intake pipe injection, 52mm Ø throttle valve
Fuel Type
Unleaded super, octane number 95 (RON)
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Battery Capacity
V/Ah 12/11.8 12/16
Clutch
Wet clutch with anti-hopping function, hydraulically activated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gear Ratios
1st (2.438) 2nd 1.714 3rd. 1.296 4th 1.059 5th 0.943 6th 0.848
Gearbox
6-speed
Primary Drive
Constant mesh
Primary Drive Ratios
1.650
Secondary Drive Ratio
1.061
Transmission / Drive
Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with helical gearing system
Frame Type
Two-section frame concept consisting of main frame with bolt-on rear frame, load-bearing engine
Suspension - Front
BMW Motorrad 37mm Telelever, central spring strut
Suspension - Rear
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever, WAD spring strut, continuously adjustable spring preload by means of hand wheel, rebound-stage damping adjustable by hand wheel (Option: Dynamic ESA)
Rake
25.5°
Steering Angle
64.1°
Trail
116 mm / 4.5 in
Wheel Travel - Front
120 mm / 4.7 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
136 mm / 5.3 in
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
12.6 in
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
320 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
10.9 in
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
276 mm
Brakes - Front
2x 320mm floating discs, 4-piston radial brake calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single 276mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper
ABS
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS as standard (part integral), disengageable
Rims
Cast aluminum wheels
Tyres - Front
120/70 ZR17
Tyres - Rear
180/55 ZR17
Wheels
Die-cast aluminium wheels
Wheels - Front
3.50 x 17″
Wheels - Rear
5.50 x 17″
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced
technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis.
Spot an error? Let us know.
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