BMW R 1200 RS 2016 — Specifications

Ten years of absence, a failed attempt with the R 1200 ST and its divisive lines as much as its squinting headlight, then silence. The return of the RS in the 2016 BMW lineup was surprising. Not because the demand was lacking, but because the scar left by the ST wasn't quite healed. Munich clearly took the time to reflect, and the result is a BMW R 1200 RS that finally embodies what it claims to be: a sporty touring motorcycle, agile, designed for those who want to devour winding roads without sacrificing comfort at the altar of performance.

The silhouette has regained its coherence. The fairing generously envelops the rider, the torso is slightly inclined forward, and the 820 mm seat positions the rider in an active posture without martyrizing the kidneys over 500 kilometers. The small deflectors mounted on the fork visually recall the S 1000 RR, an assumed nod whose real effectiveness will be judged beyond 150 km/h on the highway. For the BMW R 1200 RS test, it is precisely this overall coherence that strikes first, before even turning the throttle.

Under the fairing, the 1170 cm3 flat-twin engine delivers 125 horsepower at 7750 rpm and 125 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. These figures are identical to those of the GS and the RT, which share the same engine. BMW did not recalibrate the power for the RS, which some may find timid for a sport-GT machine priced at €14,305. However, a specific mapping boosts low-rpm torque, which makes for brisk acceleration and engaged overtakes without ever having to hunt for gears. The 236 kilograms, fully fueled, are forgotten during those moments. The 6-speed gearbox, paired with a shaft drive, ensures smooth gear changes; and the Shifter Pro option, which allows gear changes without a clutch, adds a welcome fluidity for those riding fast. The 45 mm inverted fork, a clear break with the brand's historic Telelever, works in tandem with the Paralever at the rear for a dynamic balance that owners of used BMW R 1200 RS often describe as the first reason for their purchase.

Electronics, at BMW, are never a discreet option. Opinions on the BMW R 1200 RS often diverge on this point: ABS, traction control ASC, Road and Rain riding modes standard; DTC, Dynamic and User modes, Dynamic ESA suspension optional. This latter system reads the road in real time via its sensors and adjusts the damping on the fly, with behavior varying depending on the selected riding mode. On paper, it's appealing. In practice, the rider quickly begins to trust the system. Brembo radial brakes on floating 320 mm front discs, backed by a 276 mm rear disc, bite with precision and progressiveness. That's not where disappointment lies.

What is irritating, however, is the policy of options. A machine costing more than €14,000 that doesn't include heated grips, a center stand, or luggage rack fixings as standard equipment is a commercial choice difficult to defend against a Honda VFR 800 or what the Triumph Sprint 1050 was in its last version. The dashboard, rich in information, suffers from a too-discreet engine speed display for a motorcycle with sporty pretensions. The 18-liter tank and an announced consumption of 4.1 liters per 100 km ensure solid range, consistent with the grand touring character. Those looking for a used BMW R 1200 RS on the classifieds generally find a well-equipped machine, a sign that first owners often ticked the options boxes. The 2016 BMW R 1200 RS remains a solid, engaging, convincing base on the road, provided you accept the Bavarian supplements.