2015 BMW R1200RS

by Byron Wilson, Associate Editor

Motorcycle, USA

Bob’s BMW is taking pre-order for the 2015 BMW R1200RS.

R1200RSBMW adds another sport-touring entry to its lineup with the 2015 R1200RS, extending the lineage of the RS badge first introduced to the world in 1976 with the R100RS. The 2015 R1200RS is powered by the same water-cooled Boxer Twin found in BMW’s popular R1200GS, R1200GS Adventure and R1200RT. The RS comes with plenty of electronic aides including ABS, Automatic Stability Control and variable riding modes. A newly designed frame, sportbike-inspired suspension, reconfigured intake and exhaust system and smorgasbord of available touring accessories round out the new Boxer design.

The R1200RS sources the well-established 1170cc air/liquid-cooled Boxer engine, which claims the same peak power stats as the existing water Boxer engines (125 horsepower / 92 lb-ft torque). However, BMW promises an updated airbox, reshaped intake ducts and new rear silencer result in more low-end punch for the RS model.

BMW R1200RSRiders will be able to refine power delivery via two riding modes which come standard, “Road” and “Rain.” Automatic Stability Control is also standard, along with ABS. Riding mode Pro is optional, and includes “Dynamic” and “User” settings, along with Dynamic Traction Control instead of ASC. The Dynamic mode brings the R1200RS to its fullest potential, providing snappier throttle response and limited DTC intervention. The User mode allows riders to configure settings as they set fit. Another option is the Gear Shift Assist Pro system, which allows for clutchless shifting in “relevant load and rev speed ranges.”

BMW built a new chassis for the R1200RS, designing a tubular steel bridge frame which incorporates the engine as a self-supporting element. The R1200RS comes with a 45mm upside-down telescopic fork at the front, inspired by the kit used on BMW’s S1000RR. Out back is an EVO Paralever single-sided swingarm. Adjustments on both ends are made by the newest generation Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment system. Braking is handled by dual four-piston radial-mount calipers and 320mm discs at the front and a single two-piston floating caliper, 276mm disc at the back.

2015 BMW R1200RS

The R1200RS comes with an onboard computer system with three instrument cluster display options available. Full mode allows information to be arranged and displayed to the rider’s preference, with items like mileage, trip meter, range, engine temperature, speed, fuel consumption, tire pressure and more available. Sport mode provides a bar graph engine speed display and Tourist mode simplifies matters with onboard computer info left to the bottom two panels of the instrument screen. For even more information, riders can chose the optional Pro display which includes details like time to service date, ride timer, electrical system voltage and automatic trip recorder.

Available accessories include a Comfort Package, which comes with heated grips and chrome-plated exhaust. The Touring Package includes pannier holder, center stand, luggage grid and cruise control. Various seat options, windshield, backrests, alarm and luggage systems are also available.

The 2015 R1200RS will be available in two aesthetic styles, the Basic option a Lupin blue metallic/Light grey metallic with black frame and black-anodized brake calipers. The Style 2 option is Granite grey metallic matte/Black storm metallic with an Agate grey metallic frame and gold-anodized brake calipers.

Specs for the 2015 BMW R1200RS are listed below. MSRP is yet to be determined.

2015 BMW R1200RS Specs

Engine: 1170cc air/liquid-cooled Boxer Twin

Bore x Stroke: 101mm x 73mm

Compression Ratio: 12.5:1

Clutch: Anti-slip wet clutch

Gearbox: 6-speed constant mesh

Final drive: Cardan shaft

Frame: Tubular steel bridge frame, self-supporting engine

Front Suspension: 45mm upside-down telescopic fork

Rear Suspension: BMW EVO Paralever

Front Brakes: 320mm dual disc, dual four-piston radial calipers

Rear Brake: 276mm single disc, two-piston floating caliper

ABS: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS

Front Wheels: Cast Aluminum 3.50 x 17 inch

Rear Wheels: Cast Sluminum 5.50 x 17 inch

Front Tires: 120/70 ZR17

Rear Tires: 180/55 ZR17

Wheelbase: 60.24 inches

Seat Height: 32.3 inches

Weight: 520 pounds

Fuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons

Bob’s BMW is taking pre-order for the 2015 BMW R1200RS.