Dang, I love motorcycles! And there are so many very good ones these days! 35 years ago when I started riding, you just wanted a bike that would start and make it home running!
My 2021 RT had the software update in September and it was a huge improvement.The 4 buttons on the left fairing are programmable to put your favorite shortcuts there.All menus whether phone,settings,navigation,radio,my vehicle or media menu only require a long press up on the menu buttom and it returns to the home screen.
Folks - Many of you have once again pointed out that you can set the programmable buttons on the left fairing to act as a heated grips button - thanks for pointing this out - I should have read the manual!! I'd still rather have a dedicated button in the first place but apologies for not mentioning this fact!.....
I wonder if BMW have incorporated the same programmable button on the K1600. The one that I owned required the same faff around to operate the heated grips etc.
@@alanhall7213 yes, they have. I own a 2015 1600GT, when in heated grips menu hold down the diamond button for a few seconds (the button above menu). This button is now your shortcut..
I bought my first BMW a couple of years ago. (2018 R1200RT) as my daily rider. I absolutely love my RT BUT I’m also blessed that I own a 2018 Goldwing too for longer trips. I love how nimble the RT is at slow speeds. It’s the best of both worlds (my opinion). It’s great for city and highway riding. I love it.
Good to hear! I'm thinking of getting one but don't 'cross continents' and avoid motorways like the plague. But I do 20K miles a year around Scotland in all weathers and this bike looks like the best weather protection I could get. The only question now is leg position (Knee angle) everyone moans about. I'm currently on a GS which is great, but quite tall for me at %'8" ish. Maybe I'll be ok on the RT. Cheers.
@@GJS-live I’m 5’9” (179.8cm) and after about 3 hours I have to take a break. I really should install engine guards so I can install highway pegs but since I just generally use my RT for city (errands) riding I haven’t installed them. I think you’d love the RT.
Heated grips and heated seats just press favorite button number 2 and your in the menu :).. maps works perfectly without giving it any location , you just need to be connected via wifi and Bluetooth then you can select to put on full screen :) (unless should have an iPhone)
There is information about the assignment of the four Favorite buttons around on the internet/manual. I had read it somewhere and have found it again.... The Favorite buttons are assigned with defined functions that cannot be changed. Press a button lightly. The stored function is shown in the TFT display. Press a button firmly. The stored function is executed. If a function is not available because some optional equipment is not installed, a message appears. Assignment of Favorite buttons with audio system OE The four Favorite buttons are assigned as follows: 1: Mute audio 2: Grip heating menu 3: Toggle between radio and media 4: Navigation I don't know how that is setup when the bike does not have the radio... Thanks for the excellent as usual review. The wheelbase on the R1250RT is shorter than the GS and makes it handle a lot more responsively. The Rake angle may be steeper too. I find it easy to move around when off the saddle - well my older 2005 oil/air head anyway - its still 252kg I think. Left hand on the bar, right hip against the frame, right hand on the rear grab and its stable and easy to move forward, turn, backwards etc. I'm slightly shorter than you Andy at 5ft 7in but a little heavier at 87kg. With the extra low seat fitted for ground contact at intersections, my knees are really cramped up. Now I am used to the bike, I will refit the heated seats back on!, but in the low setting. Cheers Graeme, NZ
You don’t have to go through all the menus to get to the heating options just push button 2 on the left fairing! Button 4 takes you directly to the navigation screen. The navigation at this point isn’t very reliable and drops out but BMW claims there’re releasing a hardware and software revision in September to fix it, we’ll see, I hope so since it’s the only real disappointment on this bike.
Exactly, I will add that you can set different function to these 4 buttons in the menu, so, you'll be able to add the radio, the navigation, etc as shortcut
And to get out of the menu from anywhere press and hold the "up" button. If you're going to review something at least learn how to use it. He'll be disappointed next when his kettle didn't come from the shop full of boiling water.
One of the best features of the 2015 RT is the wet weather riding - great protection and handling. You showed this and the way the bike went through the standing water at the end of the video was great. I cant justify the expense of upgrading the 15 to the 21 model - here in Australia it would set me back 35K AUD. Thanks for the great videos.
I just bought this actual bike from BMW. Thanks for not thrashing it too much Andy! My view so far if anyone interested :- I’m 5’8” so no issue with leg room although agree it’s on the sporty side. Love the TFT, clear to read in sunlight, red line moves as engine warms, customise display for what you want to see, road speed limit etc. I insisted BMW upload latest firmware for TFT, so the Navigation software works a dream now. BMW make no charge for latest World maps unlike Garmim and TomTom. GSM signal not required for app as maps are pre-loaded. I use Google Maps with waypoints on my computer or phone to plan my trips, easy to upload gpx to BMW app thereafter. Also uploaded Simon Weir (Bikers Britain) gpx routes to app with no issue. Phone is dampened in lockable compartment so not vibrated to death on handlebars and fully charged when I reach destination. Only have to take phone with me for coffee stop (or leave it locked in compartment) don’t have to take separate GPS with me. I can drop or accept calls with wiz wheel caller ID (and picture) to Bluetooth helmet. Select music with wiz wheel or mute if needed. The App records ride route and stats (if wanted). The cases are central locking, phone/left compartment , button just pops them open. I added the optional top case with high line brake light. The Led adaptive lights turn night into day and auto adjust with pillion, luggage and corners. Updated firmware now makes favourite buttons programmable (as you know now Andy :)). Can go to control direct (not just sub menu) and increment with another press. Adaptive cruise control is great on motorways, takes a bit of time and trust to get used to it though. Settings control how dynamic you want it to be. Front and back brakes are incredibly powerful, they have steel braided hoses as standard. It is a heavy bike to push for sure but side stand gives a positive clunk when extended. Panniers and larger fuel tank add weight over GS. Hill start is a welcome aid, works with front and rear brake. Mirrors are exactly same width as panniers so if they get through so will the panniers (990mm).
Hi there, something I want to thank you for is giving a British expat a regular glimpse of scenes back in dear old Blighty. The recent Welsh tour was a good example. Many of us are feeling a bit adrift at the moment what with all the international travel restrictions. Keep em coming!
Oh, I hear ya. When he's touring the English countryside or passing through historic towns etc. I really miss home. NZ has its good points but after nearly twenty years I still feel like an alien.
The screen is infinitely adjustable, it's not just 2 positions, fully up and fully down. Try it in between the two, you'll find a quiet setting while still looking over the top.
@@TheMissendenFlyer I was more suggesting that you should have tried riding with it in intermediate positions. You seemed to go fully up when raining and then fully down otherwise. The RT screen works best slightly up from the bottom when you lose just about all the wind noise but can still see clearly over the top.
Hello. I have a '17 RT (yes, a gen back) and really love it. IMO, regarding the appearance of the front end, we know that we're not getting a sport bike and it needs to be pretty big to give that protection that we love. Ride safe!
Good Day. Love your reviews. I too had an issue with the heated grips/seats menu access. But like all men we don't like to read the Manual. It took my daughter to point out the button on top of the MODE button on the right hand/throttle side(It has the squiggling up arrows). Once you press it it goes directly to the heated menu. Shift the Wonder Wheel to the right and roll/scroll your heat setting. Wunderbar!!!!!! No more faffing about while riding looking for the right menu. Don't worry, my daughter who rides a 2016 R1200 GSA, has a wonderful knack of always making daddy have that same look when things don't be as I think they should be but has been addressed in a slightly different manner.
the 4 buttons on the left side fairing can be used as shortcuts for the heated grips or seat control, they also are temp compensated so as they heat up, the heat automatically cuts back and when first turned on, turn on at max til they heat up to one of 2 levels you can set
There are quick-access buttons on the left side of the fairing. One of them takes you right to the heated seat and grips menu by default. Of course, you can change it in the menus as well. Another UA-camr talked about it.
I’ve gone from the GS to the RT (2016 version). I much prefer it and for some reason the “tucked up” riding position is far more comfortable over the longer touring distances. I think the speed Andy went through the “puddles” while still chatting probably tells you all you need to know about these bikes (bet the dealer is going to love you once he/she sees this video though)!
All the talk of that “tucked up” riding position is probably my biggest hesitation towards this bike (not that I’m seriously considering giving up my GSA anytime soon). Interesting that you say you find it more comfortable for long rides. It’s always difficult to truly test something like this as you don’t normally get given a demo bike to ride for an extended trip. But I was wondering (should one find they were not so keen) if a peg lowering kit might be available to relax some of that leg position ?
It certainly rains a lot more in the UK than it does in Arizona! From the look of all the water in the road and how well thr RT handles in it, really shows off how safe it is in any kind of driving challenge! Kudos to BMW for that! I like your reviews. They're right up where the rubber meets the road! Thats a really nice Bike you have, and im glad you picked it out of all the different models BMW offers!
I think most people who are not familier with BMWs who then take a spin on a Boxer RT of any era find they track around curves like they are attached to a rail.
You can programme all 4 buttons to do Heated Grips, Heated seats Sat Nav etc. You press the button lightly to show the function and hard to set it, if you want to increase or decrease the heat settings, press again untill you get the setting you require, shows in the bottom left of the screen.
I had RTs for years starting with an R100RT, K100RT, R1150RT and R1200RT. One day I rode a 2008 GSA which clicked because, as you rightly say, the riding position on the RT is actually cramped and detracts from it’s otherwise great dynamics. I’ve been on GS/GSAs since. Also with you on the mad menu based seat/grip heating. Too clever for it’s own good and takes your attention off the road which is nuts. BMW would do well to connect with actual riders rather than letting their engineers or marketing people loose. Thankfully there’s a starter button…….
Agree, great job. All valid points positive and negative. You could ride the 2010-2013 generation and compare the two. That would be a great video to do a side by side. No one does a side by side in generations.
I'm totally with you on the heated seats on bikes! After trying a Tiger 1200 when they first came out in 2 deg C, I was an immediate convert. So much so that I bought an aftermarket item from J&S for winter riding on my current bike. Cost under £15 and works a treat!
Hello everyone, you are doing a great job like always I appreciate, it's very easy to understand the difference between the GS & RT, GS is like a Range Rover!!! RT is like a Mercedes Class S, maybe they are not perfect but nobody can do better today✌️
I finally got a test ride on the 1250RT. First thing that really annoyed me was the first point in the video. The Navigation and app requirements on a phone. If I pay £22'000 for a motorbike - I expect GPS/Navigation included - because the alternative is a RAM mount for £50 and your already purchased mobile phone (which works well) and the navigation just works.. I then think what is the value of having navigation on your dash.. well I view it as 'not needing to touch your phone' - however I noticed you need to enter the destination (if a new waypoint) using your phone... so you'd have to pull over - turn off the bike (to be road legal), pull out your phone from your pocket, enter the destination on the phone, put it back in your pocket and then ride off. This is ok if you're planning a 500mile trip.. but for 90% of my runs it's less than 10 mile runs just to bimble about the weekend.. Oh, also, I'd had to buy a new phone just to make the phone fit the bike.. my A52s Samsung (not mega big phone) doesnt fit in the bloody phone compartment either... Really feel like the navigation and phone link is purely for BMW to gather phone information of customers, force them into signing up so data can be sold off... as the user experience is really poor.. Again.. £22'000 bike where a £50 RAM mount and mobile does a better, easier job. Literally EVERYONE.. and I mean literally everyone.. wants buttons for heated grips/seats. Yes they have favourite buttons.. but really?? I'm 5'9 - the wind screen isnt high enough.. I'd need to buy the windscreen extender. Bike rides well. Looks fine. Dash screen is large - but almost wasted with the poor phone to bike integration.. Comfy - no complaints on comfort. Goes well (I'm coming from an S1000R) Nice turning lock (again used to S1000R) Adaptive cruise control is wonderful. You can change gear without the system disabling - fantastic. Quick shifter is clunky (Remember.. I'm spoiled by the S1000R) Clutch needs a lot more labouring to get going - guess that's me not used to the Boxer engine. Things that I would expect is more consideration for the riders... where is the 'here we added the option for a RAM mount'. Simple things that make big differences. Small pocket where you can lock/leave/charge headset devices like Cardo/Siena - like these are the things that make bikes great.. knowing what the riders actually use and would make life easier. Go pro mount bolt.. etc Summary: Buy an older RT for far less money.. buy a £50 RAM mount and boom.. you've the seam features as the brand new one really..
I always put the seat all the way up to get the maximum leg room and reduce the bend in my legs. I also stand up once in a while to recirculate the blood in my legs.
The added stability is what I noticed from switching from a 2014 GSA to the 2021 RT. The GSA felt better in the tight bends, but on the straights and higher speed corners the RT is solid.
What a day for this riding segment. The bike and its rider appeared to cope rather well although the optional water wings and outboard motor (BMW’s Aqua Pack) might have been worth having 😜.
The more i hear about that TFT the more I am glad I took a 2020 model without the TFT and ACC. The real deal killer was when I took the 2021 model for a test drive and arrived back within moments to tell them the screen (TFT) is blank. Stupid expressions all round, then they laughed, so off I got and took my helmet and POLAROID sun glasses off. Frakkin hell, there is the screen working perfect, glasses on blank, glasses off perfect. But the 2020 model with the NAV VI works great even with shades on. So for almost 3.5k USD cheaper I got a brand new (1km ON ODOMETER) 2020 model and I don't have connectivity problems, don't have two shiny bits reflecting sun into my eyes where speakers go, no ACC just a norm cruise control and halogen lamps. Thank you BMW motorad for convincing me NOT to buy a 2021 model. 30k km are done and not a single moan.
Another magnificent review. Own a ‘04 1150 RT myself (without the gadgets, just the radio) I can say that they indeed know how to build an every day commuter that ticks almost every box. Implement the DCT from Honda, would be the best boxer ever.
I have looked at this bike. I thought your review was very fair. I did ask the the dealer about the app for navigation. BMW wanted to use the app to keep the maps up to date through automatically updating in the backgrounder the phone. One issue they found sing a GPS based nav people would not update the maps or, they found it a “Pain”. The other thing you pointed out was the heated grips and seat. I thought you brought us a wonderful point. The dealer said buttons 2 and 3 are programmed a quick page that takes you right to the heater options. I love this review and super informative and super fair. I have not yet pulled the trigger but the “22 has some new colors. Great content great fair, complete review!
If you're tooling around town, sure, less tech is fine. But, when you're covering hundreds of miles each day, the tech is definitely a boost. The adaptive cruise really helps relieve fatigue. I went from an '07 RT to a '21 RT. I've done the same rides on the new bike and when I get to my destination I feel a million times better.
@@TheMissendenFlyer just the switch from the wired throttle to the electronic throttle is a huge boost. The bike responds better. It helps me get going smoothly from a dead stop and helps keep me steady around slow speed corners and through slow traffic. Plus, when I set the cruise control, the throttle doesn't shift position anymore. The wired throttle rolls on and off constantly, but the electronic throttle lets me keep a steady hand on the grip. It comes in handy when the temps drop below 40°F and my right palm is leeching every bit of heat it can get from the grip.
Think you would have read the manual to see that the heated grips have a shortcut button on the left side! So a bit of letdown you didn’t checked this first. One push and you get the menu. You have enough buttons :)
If give the heated grips button a long press it remembers the last setting for seat and grips so i just use that as an on and off button, works on my 21 GS
But there is no heated grips button, that is my gripe! You can however program one of the buttons on the left fairing to do it (I should have mentioned that)....
Having just completed a 6000 mile tour on a 2017 RT, here are my thoughts. The seat padding is firm on my bike and an additional gel seat made the trip a lot more comfortable. One of my biggest gripes is the lack of places to mount accessories, such as a phone for navigation. When the sun is in the right position it reflects off the back of the handlebars onto the display. The reflection stops you seeing portions of the instrument readout. The fix was to put black tape on the back of the handlebars. This may not be an issue on the TFT display.
I've been driving a car with adaptive cruise control for several years now, and I am surprised at how people can be surprised at how comfortable and practical it is. It makes a cruise control about 100% better than an a standard one. I wish my bike had it. Still think this bike lacks in personality though. I am not sure if you know what I mean.
I'm one of those guys on the other side - I despise when some asshat rushes to pass me and then hops back in front of me and my Subaru slows down. But, that is because drivers in the US suck - they haven't a clue as to what's going on around them.
I think lacking personality is BMW's personality. It's not just their bikes, but their cars as well. Refined to the point of boring. It sounds like a negative comment but really depends on what you're looking for in a bike, or car. I don't mind that kind of boring. What I hate is a bike with character (engineering defects) that I have to work around to enjoy riding.
Good review. Would have liked to have seen the sat nav mapping live in action. And I would say to anyone who hasn't ridden one that these bikes can scratch as well as tour....
I picked up a '21 RT in the US back in March. The favorites buttons were not programmable. They may have addressed that in a software update, but my dealer hasn't contacted me since I purchased the bike.
@@TheMissendenFlyer The buttons aren't programmable (rumour is that they will be after the next software update) but currently one of them is set to go to the heating menu.
One of the downsides of a large fairing is the lower air circulation in hot weather. Also the RT is a lot to muscle around. Would have preferred a review that included some better roads where the bike has a chance to demonstrate how well it can handle on high-speed twisting back-roads, instead of sailing through deep puddles on narrow laneways, where there's traffic to dodge. My experience is BMW's excel above many other touring bikes on such roads, but it would have been nice to see how the newest ones do on good roads... Of the BMW models the R-1250-RS is preferable for me. You get a smaller adjustable fairing that isn't as 'bulbous-looking', and most of the rest of the features the RT has, yet it still provides adequate wind and weather protection and good circulation in hot weather. You can still add removable BMW (or other brands) of side and top-cases for when you travel, yet aren't encumbered with all that bulk and weight when you're just on day-trips, which is most of my riding. While the RT is a 'sporty tourer' when compared to the majority of other touring bikes, the R-1250-RS feels more like a great-handling performance bike, with a comfortable yet more sport-oriented riding position, less bulk, and lighter weight. And you can still carry the same luggage when you want to travel... Bonus - it's cheaper too!
In fairness, there’s a reason why the bulk of the developed World’s police use RTs and not Japanese or Harleys. That reason is the RT’s very low speed stability, combined with great agility and carrying capacity. TeaPot One us an ex-Traffic cop who trained on and rode RTs in the UK Police. I also seem to remember that one of the UK bike magazines did a piece where a super bike mounted rider, a professional super bike racer and a copper competed around a track. The copper smoked the average Joe, and was within 1.5 seconds of the racer (on a 1000cc) whilst riding a fully equipped Police RT. Never underestimate these bikes. If they were no good, the Police would be buying something else.
1)Press button 2 on the left fairing. Heated menu pops up. 2)Push dial wheel to the right to select grips or rotate the wheel 1 click to select seat. 3)Rotate the wheel 1 thru 5 for heat level. 4) press button 1 on the left fairing to go back to the main screen. 4 presses. Problem with hi tech bikes is the time needed to learn how the bike works before you report on it.
2013 RT owner here. I’m considering replacing it with a GS, but I don’t want to sacrifice the amount of comfort and weather protection. I’m a daily rider averaging 30-35k miles annually. My rt has has 73k carefree miles on her. If you keep up with the maintenance schedule they are worry free.
Having ridden both extensively I think the GS is actually more comfortable - the RT wins on fairing protection obviously (but it's a bit marginal). Both great bikes, you won't regret the purchase of either!
I totally agree with the comment on satnav's built in, 'faffinf' around for heated grips etc, especially on a bike meant for serious touring. Also, the adaptive cruise control. I have it on my hgv and on long motorway trips, especially through all the roadworks it is a great system.
Looking at the way the citizens of the UK park their cars, it gives me great pause. Down under you must park your car facing in the appropriate direction of travel for the carriageway you are on. This means that the parked cars that you approach on your side of the road always show their tail lights. Over in your area, you get the cars / vans parked so that it looks like they are approaching you on the wrong side of the road. I know that one can always find the odd one out, but it is shown so frequently on your vids that it seems to be "normal" for you. BTW it is obvious that the R1250 motor doesn't have to rev, and the low speed torque kept you going. That is one of the motor's great charms.
Yes it is I agree - and we have no such law on parking and can face anyway we want too - I really don't see why it's an issue?? What's the sense in that law??
To add to your comment about the tele lever front is that unlike conventional forks the telelever cant suffer from fork slider pitting which causes seals to go old 70s and 80s bikes alot of them had gaitors
Been test riding all week. Watching your video I think I’ve saved the best until last today. I love the looks of the bike. Huge predator front. Reminds me of the wife !😅
The best thing about the TFT'ed version of the RT is that it enabled me to pick up a very low mileage, fully loaded, pre-TFT 1250 RT for around 60% of price of the bike you tested as the previous owner traded up. That's progress !
@@maxflight777 2 actually. With 2 years warranty left to run. 95% of the current model for 60% of the price. No brainer. If you fancy forking out £20-22k for a fully loaded RT be my guest.
Meaning no offense - there's a reason why I subscribe to your channel, it's because I value your opinion - you didn't mention a word about the motor or the handling, meaning you've completely (in my opinion) missed what sets this machine apart from its' competition.
The problem I've found with built in satnav in cars is that they have proprietary system and maps which means very expensive map updates. My Subaru Outback costs over $400 for a map update, and it will already be two or more years old. My 2012 Toyota, first release GT86, the maps were dated 2009 and a similar $400 price to update. There's no way I'd ever want to have that on a motorbike.
Yes that is true and I accept your oint for sure - but I drive an old car with an old old satnav and it's never let me down yet getting me to where i wanted to go....
@@TheMissendenFlyer where i live an Australia's east coast we have too many new roads to rely on old maps. We lived in the UK for a few years in the pre-satnav 80s and still have that giant road atlas around here somewhere. The 'good old days'. 😊
One other tip with the tft screen. Regardless where you are in the menus, hold the up button for about 2 seconds and it will take you to the first or "home screen" of the speedo and tacho etc. Works on my 2020 BMW1250R and have my RT on order due to arrive in October.
If you are having issues moving your light as a feather BMW around, don't try it with a Harley Touring bike. Mine is 370 lbs heavier than yours. Trust me you only move it by hand if absolutely necessary :) It does have loads of leg room though.
The heated seat is a bonus, I had them in my VW Passat . The bike is a big old beast. Ideal for a good tour. I’m sure there are cheaper comparable bikes out there that does the same if not better job. Many thanks for your excellent review Andy. Very much appreciated.
Thanks for the honest and outstanding review. A couple of remarks: so we are consistently using our mobile phones as navigation devices in our cars (and bikes!) but we criticise BMW for implementing the same feature on a motorbike's display? Not utterly fair. And second, button number two (left side of the fairing) is a shortcut to the heated stuff. Not as quick as a single dedicated button but much less cumbersome than the way you managed it.
Yes many have pointed out my error regarding the programmable buttons on the fairing Jose, as indeed they did on my first ride review - this video was recorded about 5 months ago and long before the first ride video was posted - hence the repetition of my error! My apologies - I should have RTFM!
@@maxflight777 Well, yes. But there are many features not embedded in built-in nav systems. E.g. there are many people using Waze instead. And the App goes with you, no matter if you are driving your car, a friend’s car or a rental car.
@@joseluisruiz8526 Biggest thing is that the phone apps often will update with weather conditions, blockages, construction and accident delays which can be very handy verses the built in systems that have a static map. The built in navigation systems have to be manually updated whereas the app on my phone updates on it's own every so often. Not to say that built in navigation isn't convenient, because it is. But having a map in my pocket that knows where I typically go that I put in any vehicle I'm driving is just better in my opinion. I don't have to buy all the fancy options I don't want on a car to get navigation. I don't even need to have it on the dash, I can just plug it in and set it in one of the twelve cup holders. :-P
@@maxflight777 not convinced. We’ve got built in sat nav on my Jag & my wife’s Kia. They’re both a bit duff compared to having Carplay+Waze on the dash (for the live traffic, accident & obstruction reports, a built in sat nav can’t compete). That said, if BMW have gone down the same route as Triumph (ie. have to use their dedicated App for Nav), you’re right - at least in the case of Triumph, the dedicated app is awful. HD at least have done the right thing and just included Carplay support on their bikes.
Based on my experience and the feedback in the BMW forums you are one of the few people who like the stock RT seat. The softness feels great at first but there's no support. I found I could not stand the stocker on my 2015 RT for more than maybe two hours before the nether regions barked at me. I've since changed the seat to an after market and now day long rides are a cinch. Cheers!
@@Aikez I meant to put "day long" in quotes as a subtle hint. I first tried a Sargent which probably gave me an extra couple of hours of comfort but I still came home hurting. So I bit the bullet and got a Russell Day Long. Now my back gives out long before my bum. Downside is you have to send (to Colorado, USA) them your stock seat but since I had the Sargent I was covered for the 4-5 week turnaround. YMMV - a lot of people like the Sargent.
I bought a new R1200RT in 2012 having moved from Honda Pans (11/1300). The RT was superb bike but I just couldn't get on with the engine. The horizontally opposed layout was far too agricultural for me when compared to the silky smooth V4 Honda's. Even my old FJ1300 was much smoother. I took the RT to Germany, France and Scotland and it performed very well - don't get me wrong it was superbly engineered but we weren't suited. The only other gripe I had with the bike was the cost of ownership - dealer servicing was astronomically expensive and even basic things like spark plugs made me wince. the key thing I learned was that BMW stands for Bring My Wallet :-)
Yes the boxer is an acquired taste I agree - personally I love it's low down grunt and low down weight - I don't like the looks and sound of it though (not so important as low weight and grunt!)
@@TheMissendenFlyer Fair points and horses for courses. I learned my riding as a London courier in the early 80's, crashing twice a month while cutting every corner. Nowadays i like the big scooters and I'm seriously tempted by the NC750X as per one of your other test rides.
This ride is this summer wet wet wet I can't remember a wetter summer for years . At points in the ride it looks more like a speed boat 🚤 . Lovely bike great review as ever 👍
A couple of points to add that were not in the video. The app is so that you can create routes off the bike. The heated seat and grips are switchable by the 1234 programmable buttons…
dear flyer, there is a row of buttons on left side of fairing any one of which you can designate as quick access to heated grips /seat menu - good reviews tho
Agree with you 100% re the SatNav, it really should’ve been inbuilt to the bike and not rely on a temperamental phone app. The preset buttons on the left go straight to the heated seat etc, although only 2 of the buttons have been programmed. My bike is booked in early next month to have the promised software upgrade which BMW state will cure all the connection issues that some owners are experiencing, a case of watch this space. But can’t detract from the fact that it is a brilliant bike which will take me across Europe in comfort, I would recommend a test ride to anyone. Great blog, look forward to the next one
Complete and utter agreement with you on two of the downsides of this bike. Man / Woman handling the bike in the garage without power and 'legs being tucked up'. For me, these are #1 and #2 things I am not a fan of. But the pluses far outweigh the minuses. I applaud your honesty in your bike reviews and showing us not just the sunny side but exposing the weaknesses also. That's precisely why I watch your Reviews! Cheers 🥂/🍻
I love the radar cruise control but you can turn it off in the settings and it stays off or long hold on the distance adjuster will switch it off/on as you please and just run it as cruise control.
The thing of the connectivity with the phone is really a pain in the neck, you’re 100% right. I miss my set Nav 6 that I had on the GS.But the heated grips can be turned on by a short cut, in the buttons available on your left side, and if I’m not wrong it’s number 2 button. So, that is more a nit pick than an actual flaw. Yes she’s a heavy lady. And yes, it feels heavier (and in fact, it is heavier) than the GS on slow maneuvers or when the engine is off and you need to move the bike without it. But the RT has a feature that compensates everything:- the cocoon sensation you get when you go for the maximum wind protection of the windshield and at the same time you can enjoy clearly the beautiful sound of the 1250cc engine on every range of rpm. It is lovely. I never could enjoy it like that on the GS , there were always a lot of wind noise on my helmet after 75mph. The RT has a bit of sporty body position, mainly for the legs, but I’ve made a trip from Lisbon to Sevilla last week and it was very comfortable and a joyful ride. I loved to use the active cruise control. I had a blast using it. It’s a marvelous feature to have on a Tourer and I love the horn ! That is a real cool up grade that every bike should be equipped, specially within a big bike. Overall I’m very happy with the 2021RT. My pillion says that the seat and the top case are more comfortable than on the GS. She just misses the highest position - But you can’t have everything at the same time -.I love the aesthetics of the new front and the lights are fantastic! You see everything and everyone sees you.😎👌🏻 Thanks for the nice review 🙏🏼
As always a great review :-) One point that wasn't mentionned is the positionning of the mirrors when you filter through traffic. Because they are positionned so low, i have always found this annoying on the RT when you need to pass car mirrors. But this is really my only point against the RT, for the rest it is a great bike with excellent weather protection as you said.
I like to say a huge thank you for braving that terribly weather much appreciated showing us just how awesome the RT is in bad weather some of those puddles were massive , I'm sure you know now that the 4 buttons are for your favourites like heated grips and seat , really enjoying this video I'm a far weather rider but watching you gives me more confidence thank you
Thanks, for the review, that just came off my list - Over complicating switches is one of my pet hates so the heated grip palaver is enough to put me off completely.
Andy, did you read any of the comments from the initial review you did of the RT a couple of weeks ago when numerous people told you there's shortcut buttons to the heating etc on the left fairing? More homework needed reading the owners manuals prior to reviewing/recording.
I did of course read the comments from my first ride video Justin (I read EVERY comment on my videos), I even pinned a comment to that video about the buttons. This video was recorded back in March/April long before the first video was published and my error pointed out. My bad! Apologies.....
@@thomasoneill2337 Thanks Thomas - you've mentined that several times now, I have received your message and it has had your desired effect on me. Well done.
@@TheMissendenFlyer , thanks Andy. I enjoy all your videos except this one. Being the owner of a 21 plate RT, it cheeses everyone off when the bike is criticised unnecessarily when it fact all the technology is easy to access with a little homework first.
@@TheMissendenFlyer I currently have the heated menu programmed to the Diamond button on my B… At least until I find something more important to set it to
On the TFT and App...I have the 1250GS Adventure 2021'....the app is very spotty at best...when you take a call it drops connection from the TFT amd to reconnect you have to turn the bike off and start it again...might be an iOS thing with Apple (12 ProMax)...don't know about Android...but it's very finicky...love it when it works but 30% of the time it's frustrating... it will even disconnect on long hauls for no reason...BMW needs to fix this if they are not going to put Nav in the TFT which is what they should do...thanks and great review as always...
Exactly my point Matt - it's not just BMW, my Honda Goldwing Apple carplay is sketchy at best (to the point I no longer bother to try and use it), I've never got Triumph connectivity to work on any bike with it yet, etc....I'm not singling out the RT or BW here...
I own a GS, with the Nav VI, and I completely agree with how you feel. I've also tried the BMW connected app... It's better than nothing, but I rather like GPS being a stand alone.
That is a very fair review in my opinion. Having owned R/T’s in the past, and ridden them a lot, they would benefit from a reverse gear to help when moving them about in a garage or drive. Plus I think the front looks too busy.
@@TheMissendenFlyer I used to ride them professionally in the 80’s as well as owning them since. Now I’m a lot older I find them brilliant to ride but just too heavy to move around. Great videos, keep them coming. Thanks
You might need to research the manual regarding shortcuts in the menu system. The R1200 RT that I have 2017 (719) has the up switch on the menu button settable as a menu shortcut, easily set to land anywhere in the system. Easy exit is by pushing the select wheel left, exiting back out completely! The fairing is all about weather protection! The weight is an issue in that I am unable to pick it up on my own, something necessary when miles out of nowhere in Australia. Cheers from Oz
Hallo, overall a good video, but you don't have to faff about with all the menus for the heating. Just press button 2 on the left of the fairing and the heating is on the screen.
I’m on a 1250 GS Adventure right now and the RT would be the next step for me when the Mrs B and I do get to tour together when the girls grow up for sure; I just couldn’t afford the GW or see myself on one as the RT would do everything we’d need so well especially considering the EU network👌
Another great review and I love this bike. It would probably be my 1st choice from the BMW catalogue. Looks being rather subjective, I disagree with you on the looks, which I rather like and much prefer to those of the GS. I do agree with your comments on the unnecessarily complex TFT functionally. Without wishing to appear a luddite, i think manufacturers have gone completely over the top with their obsession with TFT's and made them so complicated that they can only be a distraction when riding.
Thanks for another great review. Just to show how preferences can vary, I love the iPhone navigation integration on my GS; I sold the Garmin Navigator that came with it. Also, I despise the adaptive cruise control (my wife’s car has it) and would pay extra to not have it. You’re exactly right about the heated grips menu nonsense. On marginal days I’m always turning the grips on and off, with the button on the right side. Thanks again.
I think BMW has built in button pushing to satisfy the newer, younger riders that will take over as we dinosaurs become history. The RT appears to be quite a good wave runner also. Another "pro"to your list. 👍👍🙋♂️
My #1 concern is being able to push the bike around to park etc...@62 I weigh 140-150lbs. Im strong and athletic but weight is weight plus I will have it loaded with touring gear....The GoldWing at least has reverse.
Dang, I love motorcycles! And there are so many very good ones these days! 35 years ago when I started riding, you just wanted a bike that would start and make it home running!
My 2021 RT had the software update in September and it was a huge improvement.The 4 buttons on the left fairing are programmable to put your favorite shortcuts there.All menus whether phone,settings,navigation,radio,my vehicle or media menu only require a long press up on the menu buttom and it returns to the home screen.
Folks - Many of you have once again pointed out that you can set the programmable buttons on the left fairing to act as a heated grips button - thanks for pointing this out - I should have read the manual!! I'd still rather have a dedicated button in the first place but apologies for not mentioning this fact!.....
I wonder if BMW have incorporated the same programmable button on the K1600. The one that I owned required the same faff around to operate the heated grips etc.
@@alanhall7213 yes, they have. I own a 2015 1600GT, when in heated grips menu hold down the diamond button for a few seconds (the button above menu). This button is now your shortcut..
You shouldn't be surprised at the effectiveness of the heated seat, it heats the hole of your body ;-) .
I just got that! 😂
I bought my first BMW a couple of years ago. (2018 R1200RT) as my daily rider. I absolutely love my RT BUT I’m also blessed that I own a 2018 Goldwing too for longer trips. I love how nimble the RT is at slow speeds. It’s the best of both worlds (my opinion). It’s great for city and highway riding. I love it.
Good to hear! I'm thinking of getting one but don't 'cross continents' and avoid motorways like the plague. But I do 20K miles a year around Scotland in all weathers and this bike looks like the best weather protection I could get. The only question now is leg position (Knee angle) everyone moans about. I'm currently on a GS which is great, but quite tall for me at %'8" ish. Maybe I'll be ok on the RT. Cheers.
@@GJS-live I’m 5’9” (179.8cm) and after about 3 hours I have to take a break. I really should install engine guards so I can install highway pegs but since I just generally use my RT for city (errands) riding I haven’t installed them. I think you’d love the RT.
@@kylepayne9657 Thanks, Kyle. I seem to need to stop for a pee (I'm old) every 90-120 minutes or so - so hopefully won't be an issue. :)
I have a 2016 RT. To improve leg comfort I added engine “crash” bars and highway pegs so I can extend my legs as needed.
Heated grips and heated seats just press favorite button number 2 and your in the menu :).. maps works perfectly without giving it any location , you just need to be connected via wifi and Bluetooth then you can select to put on full screen :) (unless should have an iPhone)
There is information about the assignment of the four Favorite buttons around on the internet/manual. I had read it somewhere and have found it again....
The Favorite buttons are assigned with defined functions that cannot be changed.
Press a button lightly.
The stored function is shown in the TFT display.
Press a button firmly.
The stored function is executed.
If a function is not available because some optional equipment is not installed, a message appears.
Assignment of Favorite buttons with audio system OE
The four Favorite buttons are assigned as follows:
1: Mute audio
2: Grip heating menu
3: Toggle between radio and media
4: Navigation
I don't know how that is setup when the bike does not have the radio...
Thanks for the excellent as usual review. The wheelbase on the R1250RT is shorter than the GS and makes it handle a lot more responsively. The Rake angle may be steeper too.
I find it easy to move around when off the saddle - well my older 2005 oil/air head anyway - its still 252kg I think. Left hand on the bar, right hip against the frame, right hand on the rear grab and its stable and easy to move forward, turn, backwards etc. I'm slightly shorter than you Andy at 5ft 7in but a little heavier at 87kg.
With the extra low seat fitted for ground contact at intersections, my knees are really cramped up. Now I am used to the bike, I will refit the heated seats back on!, but in the low setting. Cheers Graeme, NZ
Cheers Graeme - good to hear from you again!
You don’t have to go through all the menus to get to the heating options just push button 2 on the left fairing! Button 4 takes you directly to the navigation screen. The navigation at this point isn’t very reliable and drops out but BMW claims there’re releasing a hardware and software revision in September to fix it, we’ll see, I hope so since it’s the only real disappointment on this bike.
Exactly, I will add that you can set different function to these 4 buttons in the menu, so, you'll be able to add the radio, the navigation, etc as shortcut
Can’t believe he had the bike for a week and didn’t know about the short cuts
And to get out of the menu from anywhere press and hold the "up" button. If you're going to review something at least learn how to use it. He'll be disappointed next when his kettle didn't come from the shop full of boiling water.
@@ChazM535i to be fair, if you're riding a different bike every other week....
@@ChazM535i lol
One of the best features of the 2015 RT is the wet weather riding - great protection and handling. You showed this and the way the bike went through the standing water at the end of the video was great. I cant justify the expense of upgrading the 15 to the 21 model - here in Australia it would set me back 35K AUD. Thanks for the great videos.
My pleasure!
TRY $41K.
Favorite buttons on left fairing can be programmed for heated seats , grips and two other functions of the riders choice
The more I ride mine, the more I like it. Coming off the GSA I only have regrets when on gravel roads
I just bought this actual bike from BMW. Thanks for not thrashing it too much Andy! My view so far if anyone interested :-
I’m 5’8” so no issue with leg room although agree it’s on the sporty side.
Love the TFT, clear to read in sunlight, red line moves as engine warms, customise display for what you want to see, road speed limit etc.
I insisted BMW upload latest firmware for TFT, so the Navigation software works a dream now. BMW make no charge for latest World maps unlike Garmim and TomTom. GSM signal not required for app as maps are pre-loaded. I use Google Maps with waypoints on my computer or phone to plan my trips, easy to upload gpx to BMW app thereafter. Also uploaded Simon Weir (Bikers Britain) gpx routes to app with no issue.
Phone is dampened in lockable compartment so not vibrated to death on handlebars and fully charged when I reach destination. Only have to take phone with me for coffee stop (or leave it locked in compartment) don’t have to take separate GPS with me.
I can drop or accept calls with wiz wheel caller ID (and picture) to Bluetooth helmet. Select music with wiz wheel or mute if needed.
The App records ride route and stats (if wanted).
The cases are central locking, phone/left compartment , button just pops them open. I added the optional top case with high line brake light.
The Led adaptive lights turn night into day and auto adjust with pillion, luggage and corners.
Updated firmware now makes favourite buttons programmable (as you know now Andy :)). Can go to control direct (not just sub menu) and increment with another press.
Adaptive cruise control is great on motorways, takes a bit of time and trust to get used to it though. Settings control how dynamic you want it to be.
Front and back brakes are incredibly powerful, they have steel braided hoses as standard.
It is a heavy bike to push for sure but side stand gives a positive clunk when extended. Panniers and larger fuel tank add weight over GS. Hill start is a welcome aid, works with front and rear brake.
Mirrors are exactly same width as panniers so if they get through so will the panniers (990mm).
Surely you can’t be the first owner?? Great bike…
@@TheMissendenFlyer if you count BMW, I’m 2nd owner, 1600 miles on clock when I had it.
Hi there, something I want to thank you for is giving a British expat a regular glimpse of scenes back in dear old Blighty. The recent Welsh tour was a good example. Many of us are feeling a bit adrift at the moment what with all the international travel restrictions. Keep em coming!
Will do Philip!
Oh, I hear ya. When he's touring the English countryside or passing through historic towns etc. I really miss home. NZ has its good points but after nearly twenty years I still feel like an alien.
The screen is infinitely adjustable, it's not just 2 positions, fully up and fully down. Try it in between the two, you'll find a quiet setting while still looking over the top.
Yes I didn’t mean to imply it wasn’t fully adjustable….
@@TheMissendenFlyer I was more suggesting that you should have tried riding with it in intermediate positions. You seemed to go fully up when raining and then fully down otherwise. The RT screen works best slightly up from the bottom when you lose just about all the wind noise but can still see clearly over the top.
Hello. I have a '17 RT (yes, a gen back) and really love it. IMO, regarding the appearance of the front end, we know that we're not getting a sport bike and it needs to be pretty big to give that protection that we love. Ride safe!
Good Day. Love your reviews. I too had an issue with the heated grips/seats menu access. But like all men we don't like to read the Manual. It took my daughter to point out the button on top of the MODE button on the right hand/throttle side(It has the squiggling up arrows). Once you press it it goes directly to the heated menu. Shift the Wonder Wheel to the right and roll/scroll your heat setting. Wunderbar!!!!!! No more faffing about while riding looking for the right menu. Don't worry, my daughter who rides a 2016 R1200 GSA, has a wonderful knack of always making daddy have that same look when things don't be as I think they should be but has been addressed in a slightly different manner.
Nice one! Still would prefer a proper button though!
Andy The heat grips and seat are configured to come on via switch 2 on the side panel.
See my pinned comment Tony...
Heated seats and grips are available from a button on the left side of the fairing.
See my pinned comment
the 4 buttons on the left side fairing can be used as shortcuts for the heated grips or seat control, they also are temp compensated so as they heat up, the heat automatically cuts back and when first turned on, turn on at max til they heat up to one of 2 levels you can set
There are quick-access buttons on the left side of the fairing. One of them takes you right to the heated seat and grips menu by default. Of course, you can change it in the menus as well. Another UA-camr talked about it.
Yes, see my pinned comment
I’ve gone from the GS to the RT (2016 version). I much prefer it and for some reason the “tucked up” riding position is far more comfortable over the longer touring distances. I think the speed Andy went through the “puddles” while still chatting probably tells you all you need to know about these bikes (bet the dealer is going to love you once he/she sees this video though)!
All the talk of that “tucked up” riding position is probably my biggest hesitation towards this bike (not that I’m seriously considering giving up my GSA anytime soon).
Interesting that you say you find it more comfortable for long rides.
It’s always difficult to truly test something like this as you don’t normally get given a demo bike to ride for an extended trip.
But I was wondering (should one find they were not so keen) if a peg lowering kit might be available to relax some of that leg position ?
Yes, IMO the riding position is very comfortable. Looking at Andy's legs they do not look "tucked up" at all....
The RT is a great bike. I also moved from the GS and much prefer the RT.
I love nav from phone, you always have, or should have latest maps and technology. I love that it finds the windiest roads! (If you ask it too)
It certainly rains a lot more in the UK than it does in Arizona! From the look of all the water in the road and how well thr RT handles in it, really shows off how safe it is in any kind of driving challenge! Kudos to BMW for that! I like your reviews. They're right up where the rubber meets the road! Thats a really nice Bike you have, and im glad you picked it out of all the different models BMW offers!
I think most people who are not familier with BMWs who then take a spin on a Boxer RT of any era find they track around curves like they are attached to a rail.
You can programme all 4 buttons to do Heated Grips, Heated seats Sat Nav etc. You press the button lightly to show the function and hard to set it, if you want to increase or decrease the heat settings, press again untill you get the setting you require, shows in the bottom left of the screen.
I had RTs for years starting with an R100RT, K100RT, R1150RT and R1200RT. One day I rode a 2008 GSA which clicked because, as you rightly say, the riding position on the RT is actually cramped and detracts from it’s otherwise great dynamics. I’ve been on GS/GSAs since. Also with you on the mad menu based seat/grip heating. Too clever for it’s own good and takes your attention off the road which is nuts. BMW would do well to connect with actual riders rather than letting their engineers or marketing people loose. Thankfully there’s a starter button…….
Agree, great job. All valid points positive and negative. You could ride the 2010-2013 generation and compare the two. That would be a great video to do a side by side. No one does a side by side in generations.
I'm totally with you on the heated seats on bikes! After trying a Tiger 1200 when they first came out in 2 deg C, I was an immediate convert. So much so that I bought an aftermarket item from J&S for winter riding on my current bike. Cost under £15 and works a treat!
Good aren't they!
Hello everyone, you are doing a great job like always I appreciate, it's very easy to understand the difference between the GS & RT, GS is like a Range Rover!!! RT is like a Mercedes Class S, maybe they are not perfect but nobody can do better today✌️
I finally got a test ride on the 1250RT. First thing that really annoyed me was the first point in the video. The Navigation and app requirements on a phone. If I pay £22'000 for a motorbike - I expect GPS/Navigation included - because the alternative is a RAM mount for £50 and your already purchased mobile phone (which works well) and the navigation just works.. I then think what is the value of having navigation on your dash.. well I view it as 'not needing to touch your phone' - however I noticed you need to enter the destination (if a new waypoint) using your phone... so you'd have to pull over - turn off the bike (to be road legal), pull out your phone from your pocket, enter the destination on the phone, put it back in your pocket and then ride off. This is ok if you're planning a 500mile trip.. but for 90% of my runs it's less than 10 mile runs just to bimble about the weekend.. Oh, also, I'd had to buy a new phone just to make the phone fit the bike.. my A52s Samsung (not mega big phone) doesnt fit in the bloody phone compartment either...
Really feel like the navigation and phone link is purely for BMW to gather phone information of customers, force them into signing up so data can be sold off... as the user experience is really poor.. Again.. £22'000 bike where a £50 RAM mount and mobile does a better, easier job.
Literally EVERYONE.. and I mean literally everyone.. wants buttons for heated grips/seats. Yes they have favourite buttons.. but really??
I'm 5'9 - the wind screen isnt high enough.. I'd need to buy the windscreen extender.
Bike rides well.
Looks fine.
Dash screen is large - but almost wasted with the poor phone to bike integration..
Comfy - no complaints on comfort.
Goes well (I'm coming from an S1000R)
Nice turning lock (again used to S1000R)
Adaptive cruise control is wonderful. You can change gear without the system disabling - fantastic.
Quick shifter is clunky (Remember.. I'm spoiled by the S1000R)
Clutch needs a lot more labouring to get going - guess that's me not used to the Boxer engine.
Things that I would expect is more consideration for the riders... where is the 'here we added the option for a RAM mount'. Simple things that make big differences.
Small pocket where you can lock/leave/charge headset devices like Cardo/Siena - like these are the things that make bikes great.. knowing what the riders actually use and would make life easier.
Go pro mount bolt.. etc
Summary:
Buy an older RT for far less money.. buy a £50 RAM mount and boom.. you've the seam features as the brand new one really..
I'm touring on an RT soon - will be interesting to see how it goes.....
I agree about an older one but once you've had the 1250, can you go back to a 1200? Dunno.
I always put the seat all the way up to get the maximum leg room and reduce the bend in my legs. I also stand up once in a while to recirculate the blood in my legs.
The added stability is what I noticed from switching from a 2014 GSA to the 2021 RT. The GSA felt better in the tight bends, but on the straights and higher speed corners the RT is solid.
Yes I entirely know what you mean….
What a day for this riding segment. The bike and its rider appeared to cope rather well although the optional water wings and outboard motor (BMW’s Aqua Pack) might have been worth having 😜.
Agreed, a little damp out that day!
You can preselect the heated grips & seat in one of the 4 buttons on your left side meant for shortcuts
Yes - see pinned comment
The more i hear about that TFT the more I am glad I took a 2020 model without the TFT and ACC. The real deal killer was when I took the 2021 model for a test drive and arrived back within moments to tell them the screen (TFT) is blank. Stupid expressions all round, then they laughed, so off I got and took my helmet and POLAROID sun glasses off. Frakkin hell, there is the screen working perfect, glasses on blank, glasses off perfect. But the 2020 model with the NAV VI works great even with shades on. So for almost 3.5k USD cheaper I got a brand new (1km ON ODOMETER) 2020 model and I don't have connectivity problems, don't have two shiny bits reflecting sun into my eyes where speakers go, no ACC just a norm cruise control and halogen lamps. Thank you BMW motorad for convincing me NOT to buy a 2021 model. 30k km are done and not a single moan.
Another magnificent review. Own a ‘04 1150 RT myself (without the gadgets, just the radio) I can say that they indeed know how to build an every day commuter that ticks almost every box. Implement the DCT from Honda, would be the best boxer ever.
I have looked at this bike. I thought your review was very fair. I did ask the the dealer about the app for navigation. BMW wanted to use the app to keep the maps up to date through automatically updating in the backgrounder the phone. One issue they found sing a GPS based nav people would not update the maps or, they found it a “Pain”. The other thing you pointed out was the heated grips and seat. I thought you brought us a wonderful point. The dealer said buttons 2 and 3 are programmed a quick page that takes you right to the heater options. I love this review and super informative and super fair. I have not yet pulled the trigger but the “22 has some new colors. Great content great fair, complete review!
Thanks for watching and for stoppinbg by!
A cracking machine, but I do sometimes feel with technology that less can be more......
If you're tooling around town, sure, less tech is fine. But, when you're covering hundreds of miles each day, the tech is definitely a boost. The adaptive cruise really helps relieve fatigue. I went from an '07 RT to a '21 RT. I've done the same rides on the new bike and when I get to my destination I feel a million times better.
That's interesting feedback SB - thanks for that!
@@TheMissendenFlyer just the switch from the wired throttle to the electronic throttle is a huge boost. The bike responds better. It helps me get going smoothly from a dead stop and helps keep me steady around slow speed corners and through slow traffic. Plus, when I set the cruise control, the throttle doesn't shift position anymore. The wired throttle rolls on and off constantly, but the electronic throttle lets me keep a steady hand on the grip. It comes in handy when the temps drop below 40°F and my right palm is leeching every bit of heat it can get from the grip.
Far to much gadjets and gizmos KISS0
keep it simple stupid
@@maxflight777 Holding people accountable? You monster!
Think you would have read the manual to see that the heated grips have a shortcut button on the left side! So a bit of letdown you didn’t checked this first. One push and you get the menu. You have enough buttons :)
See my pinned comment.
If give the heated grips button a long press it remembers the last setting for seat and grips so i just use that as an on and off button, works on my 21 GS
But there is no heated grips button, that is my gripe! You can however program one of the buttons on the left fairing to do it (I should have mentioned that)....
Having just completed a 6000 mile tour on a 2017 RT, here are my thoughts. The seat padding is firm on my bike and an additional gel seat made the trip a lot more comfortable. One of my biggest gripes is the lack of places to mount accessories, such as a phone for navigation. When the sun is in the right position it reflects off the back of the handlebars onto the display. The reflection stops you seeing portions of the instrument readout. The fix was to put black tape on the back of the handlebars. This may not be an issue on the TFT display.
I own an RT and by the time I got to the heated seat and grips menu summer had already arrived.
I've been driving a car with adaptive cruise control for several years now, and I am surprised at how people can be surprised at how comfortable and practical it is. It makes a cruise control about 100% better than an a standard one. I wish my bike had it.
Still think this bike lacks in personality though. I am not sure if you know what I mean.
I Agree
I'm one of those guys on the other side - I despise when some asshat rushes to pass me and then hops back in front of me and my Subaru slows down. But, that is because drivers in the US suck - they haven't a clue as to what's going on around them.
I think lacking personality is BMW's personality. It's not just their bikes, but their cars as well. Refined to the point of boring. It sounds like a negative comment but really depends on what you're looking for in a bike, or car. I don't mind that kind of boring. What I hate is a bike with character (engineering defects) that I have to work around to enjoy riding.
@@PetrolJunkie Yeah all those boring M Cars
@@torqueofthedevil8145 Exactly.
Good review. Would have liked to have seen the sat nav mapping live in action. And I would say to anyone who hasn't ridden one that these bikes can scratch as well as tour....
On the left side faring you can assign any of the buttons to do anything, for instance turning the heated grips on.
I picked up a '21 RT in the US back in March. The favorites buttons were not programmable. They may have addressed that in a software update, but my dealer hasn't contacted me since I purchased the bike.
Pretty poor show that isn't it....
@@TheMissendenFlyer The buttons aren't programmable (rumour is that they will be after the next software update) but currently one of them is set to go to the heating menu.
One of the downsides of a large fairing is the lower air circulation in hot weather. Also the RT is a lot to muscle around. Would have preferred a review that included some better roads where the bike has a chance to demonstrate how well it can handle on high-speed twisting back-roads, instead of sailing through deep puddles on narrow laneways, where there's traffic to dodge. My experience is BMW's excel above many other touring bikes on such roads, but it would have been nice to see how the newest ones do on good roads...
Of the BMW models the R-1250-RS is preferable for me. You get a smaller adjustable fairing that isn't as 'bulbous-looking', and most of the rest of the features the RT has, yet it still provides adequate wind and weather protection and good circulation in hot weather. You can still add removable BMW (or other brands) of side and top-cases for when you travel, yet aren't encumbered with all that bulk and weight when you're just on day-trips, which is most of my riding. While the RT is a 'sporty tourer' when compared to the majority of other touring bikes, the R-1250-RS feels more like a great-handling performance bike, with a comfortable yet more sport-oriented riding position, less bulk, and lighter weight. And you can still carry the same luggage when you want to travel...
Bonus - it's cheaper too!
k1600 has scoops that you flip out that work well to get airflow in hot weather
In fairness, there’s a reason why the bulk of the developed World’s police use RTs and not Japanese or Harleys. That reason is the RT’s very low speed stability, combined with great agility and carrying capacity. TeaPot One us an ex-Traffic cop who trained on and rode RTs in the UK Police. I also seem to remember that one of the UK bike magazines did a piece where a super bike mounted rider, a professional super bike racer and a copper competed around a track. The copper smoked the average Joe, and was within 1.5 seconds of the racer (on a 1000cc) whilst riding a fully equipped Police RT. Never underestimate these bikes. If they were no good, the Police would be buying something else.
Button number 2 on your left is a shortcut for your heatet grips and Seat. To get back to mainscreen just hold the menu botton up for 2 sec.
See my pinned comment
1)Press button 2 on the left fairing. Heated menu pops up. 2)Push dial wheel to the right to select grips or rotate the wheel 1 click to select seat. 3)Rotate the wheel 1 thru 5 for heat level. 4) press button 1 on the left fairing to go back to the main screen. 4 presses. Problem with hi tech bikes is the time needed to learn how the bike works before you report on it.
2013 RT owner here. I’m considering replacing it with a GS, but I don’t want to sacrifice the amount of comfort and weather protection. I’m a daily rider averaging 30-35k miles annually. My rt has has 73k carefree miles on her. If you keep up with the maintenance schedule they are worry free.
Having ridden both extensively I think the GS is actually more comfortable - the RT wins on fairing protection obviously (but it's a bit marginal). Both great bikes, you won't regret the purchase of either!
I totally agree with the comment on satnav's built in, 'faffinf' around for heated grips etc, especially on a bike meant for serious touring. Also, the adaptive cruise control. I have it on my hgv and on long motorway trips, especially through all the roadworks it is a great system.
You don't have to faff around for heating, there's a button the fairing. TMF just hasn't read the manual or the comments on his earlier report.
Yes I was quite impressed with that - didn’t think I would be but it is good!
Looking at the way the citizens of the UK park their cars, it gives me great pause. Down under you must park your car facing in the appropriate direction of travel for the carriageway you are on. This means that the parked cars that you approach on your side of the road always show their tail lights. Over in your area, you get the cars / vans parked so that it looks like they are approaching you on the wrong side of the road. I know that one can always find the odd one out, but it is shown so frequently on your vids that it seems to be "normal" for you. BTW it is obvious that the R1250 motor doesn't have to rev, and the low speed torque kept you going. That is one of the motor's great charms.
Yes it is I agree - and we have no such law on parking and can face anyway we want too - I really don't see why it's an issue?? What's the sense in that law??
After dark the law does require you to park on the nearside of the road, unless on a one way street, for the very reason above.
To add to your comment about the tele lever front is that unlike conventional forks the telelever cant suffer from fork slider pitting which causes seals to go old 70s and 80s bikes alot of them had gaitors
Been test riding all week. Watching your video I think I’ve saved the best until last today. I love the looks of the bike. Huge predator front. Reminds me of the wife !😅
Goldwing owner “I’m not a big fan of gadgets” …I had to smile at that one Andy. Great video as always
Well I'm not! You can't buy a Goldwing Tour without them all! ...although the built in Satnav I do rather like...
The best thing about the TFT'ed version of the RT is that it enabled me to pick up a very low mileage, fully loaded, pre-TFT 1250 RT for around 60% of price of the bike you tested as the previous owner traded up. That's progress !
Nice one!
@@maxflight777 2 actually. With 2 years warranty left to run. 95% of the current model for 60% of the price. No brainer. If you fancy forking out £20-22k for a fully loaded RT be my guest.
The shortcut buttons can set your desired heat level by pressing until you reach the 1-5 setting you are after
Meaning no offense - there's a reason why I subscribe to your channel, it's because I value your opinion - you didn't mention a word about the motor or the handling, meaning you've completely (in my opinion) missed what sets this machine apart from its' competition.
I covered that in my first ride video
I've ridden the RT and 1600 back to back over a 60k ride, and on some twisty roads. The RT won on handling.
The problem I've found with built in satnav in cars is that they have proprietary system and maps which means very expensive map updates. My Subaru Outback costs over $400 for a map update, and it will already be two or more years old. My 2012 Toyota, first release GT86, the maps were dated 2009 and a similar $400 price to update. There's no way I'd ever want to have that on a motorbike.
Yes that is true and I accept your oint for sure - but I drive an old car with an old old satnav and it's never let me down yet getting me to where i wanted to go....
@@TheMissendenFlyer where i live an Australia's east coast we have too many new roads to rely on old maps. We lived in the UK for a few years in the pre-satnav 80s and still have that giant road atlas around here somewhere. The 'good old days'. 😊
Grip&seat heating - just press button 2 on the left side as this takes you directly to this setting
See my pinned comment
Went for a 300 mile trip on my scrambler in the rain. Now i want a couch on wheel might end up on a rt
Good choice!
One other tip with the tft screen. Regardless where you are in the menus, hold the up button for about 2 seconds and it will take you to the first or "home screen" of the speedo and tacho etc.
Works on my 2020 BMW1250R and have my RT on order due to arrive in October.
Good tip! Thanks for that….
Definitely a bulbus front end. The look of someone that works out the upper body and skips leg day EVERYDAY :-)
If you are having issues moving your light as a feather BMW around, don't try it with a Harley Touring bike. Mine is 370 lbs heavier than yours. Trust me you only move it by hand if absolutely necessary :) It does have loads of leg room though.
The heated seat is a bonus, I had them in my VW Passat . The bike is a big old beast. Ideal for a good tour. I’m sure there are cheaper comparable bikes out there that does the same if not better job.
Many thanks for your excellent review Andy. Very much appreciated.
Thanks for the honest and outstanding review. A couple of remarks: so we are consistently using our mobile phones as navigation devices in our cars (and bikes!) but we criticise BMW for implementing the same feature on a motorbike's display? Not utterly fair. And second, button number two (left side of the fairing) is a shortcut to the heated stuff. Not as quick as a single dedicated button but much less cumbersome than the way you managed it.
Yes many have pointed out my error regarding the programmable buttons on the fairing Jose, as indeed they did on my first ride review - this video was recorded about 5 months ago and long before the first ride video was posted - hence the repetition of my error! My apologies - I should have RTFM!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Point taken. Not trying to highlight any errors, just being supportive.
@@maxflight777 Well, yes. But there are many features not embedded in built-in nav systems. E.g. there are many people using Waze instead. And the App goes with you, no matter if you are driving your car, a friend’s car or a rental car.
@@joseluisruiz8526 Biggest thing is that the phone apps often will update with weather conditions, blockages, construction and accident delays which can be very handy verses the built in systems that have a static map. The built in navigation systems have to be manually updated whereas the app on my phone updates on it's own every so often.
Not to say that built in navigation isn't convenient, because it is. But having a map in my pocket that knows where I typically go that I put in any vehicle I'm driving is just better in my opinion. I don't have to buy all the fancy options I don't want on a car to get navigation. I don't even need to have it on the dash, I can just plug it in and set it in one of the twelve cup holders. :-P
@@maxflight777 not convinced. We’ve got built in sat nav on my Jag & my wife’s Kia. They’re both a bit duff compared to having Carplay+Waze on the dash (for the live traffic, accident & obstruction reports, a built in sat nav can’t compete). That said, if BMW have gone down the same route as Triumph (ie. have to use their dedicated App for Nav), you’re right - at least in the case of Triumph, the dedicated app is awful.
HD at least have done the right thing and just included Carplay support on their bikes.
The buttons on the left hand fairing are short cuts. One takes you straight to heated grips and seat.
Geat review, as always! I love the active-cruise and blindspot monitoring on my '22 Multistrada V4S. The cruise particularly is so pleasing.
Based on my experience and the feedback in the BMW forums you are one of the few people who like the stock RT seat. The softness feels great at first but there's no support. I found I could not stand the stocker on my 2015 RT for more than maybe two hours before the nether regions barked at me. I've since changed the seat to an after market and now day long rides are a cinch. Cheers!
Couldn’t agree more
John, which seat did you go for?
@@Aikez I meant to put "day long" in quotes as a subtle hint. I first tried a Sargent which probably gave me an extra couple of hours of comfort but I still came home hurting. So I bit the bullet and got a Russell Day Long. Now my back gives out long before my bum. Downside is you have to send (to Colorado, USA) them your stock seat but since I had the Sargent I was covered for the 4-5 week turnaround. YMMV - a lot of people like the Sargent.
I bought a new R1200RT in 2012 having moved from Honda Pans (11/1300). The RT was superb bike but I just couldn't get on with the engine. The horizontally opposed layout was far too agricultural for me when compared to the silky smooth V4 Honda's. Even my old FJ1300 was much smoother. I took the RT to Germany, France and Scotland and it performed very well - don't get me wrong it was superbly engineered but we weren't suited. The only other gripe I had with the bike was the cost of ownership - dealer servicing was astronomically expensive and even basic things like spark plugs made me wince. the key thing I learned was that BMW stands for Bring My Wallet :-)
Yes the boxer is an acquired taste I agree - personally I love it's low down grunt and low down weight - I don't like the looks and sound of it though (not so important as low weight and grunt!)
@@TheMissendenFlyer Fair points and horses for courses. I learned my riding as a London courier in the early 80's, crashing twice a month while cutting every corner. Nowadays i like the big scooters and I'm seriously tempted by the NC750X as per one of your other test rides.
This ride is this summer wet wet wet I can't remember a wetter summer for years . At points in the ride it looks more like a speed boat 🚤 . Lovely bike great review as ever 👍
Well this summer has been rubbish I agree - but this was recorded back in March/April IIRC
A couple of points to add that were not in the video. The app is so that you can create routes off the bike. The heated seat and grips are switchable by the 1234 programmable buttons…
The things you’ll ride through for your viewers. Hero and thank you!!!
As an owner they would benefit from heated mirrors, they just collect water on them when raining,makeing them pretty useless, especially in the dark!
dear flyer, there is a row of buttons on left side of fairing any one of which you can designate as quick access to heated grips /seat menu - good reviews tho
Yes - a few mentioned that!
Agree with you 100% re the SatNav, it really should’ve been inbuilt to the bike and not rely on a temperamental phone app. The preset buttons on the left go straight to the heated seat etc, although only 2 of the buttons have been programmed. My bike is booked in early next month to have the promised software upgrade which BMW state will cure all the connection issues that some owners are experiencing, a case of watch this space. But can’t detract from the fact that it is a brilliant bike which will take me across Europe in comfort, I would recommend a test ride to anyone. Great blog, look forward to the next one
Thanks for ther feedback and for the kind words Paul! All the best and enjoy the bike!
Complete and utter agreement with you on two of the downsides of this bike. Man / Woman handling the bike in the garage without power and 'legs being tucked up'. For me, these are #1 and #2 things I am not a fan of. But the pluses far outweigh the minuses. I applaud your honesty in your bike reviews and showing us not just the sunny side but exposing the weaknesses also. That's precisely why I watch your Reviews! Cheers 🥂/🍻
Cheers!
You can get the seat raised and / or the pegs lowered. Legs being "tucked up" aren't a problem.
@@clemfandango9534 I did that. Legroom still a problem for me and I'm 5'10".
I love the radar cruise control but you can turn it off in the settings and it stays off or long hold on the distance adjuster will switch it off/on as you please and just run it as cruise control.
At 4:30 I thought “what a huge bike” until i saw you stand up again! 😂🤣😂🤣😂
Unsure about the 2021 but my 2018 RT allows me to build in a shortcut on the menu button. One click up and I'm at my heated grips settings.
Yes I think that is still the case judgng by some of the comments here...
The thing of the connectivity with the phone is really a pain in the neck, you’re 100% right. I miss my set Nav 6 that I had on the GS.But the heated grips can be turned on by a short cut, in the buttons available on your left side, and if I’m not wrong it’s number 2 button. So, that is more a nit pick than an actual flaw.
Yes she’s a heavy lady. And yes, it feels heavier (and in fact, it is heavier) than the GS on slow maneuvers or when the engine is off and you need to move the bike without it. But the RT has a feature that compensates everything:- the cocoon sensation you get when you go for the maximum wind protection of the windshield and at the same time you can enjoy clearly the beautiful sound of the 1250cc engine on every range of rpm. It is lovely. I never could enjoy it like that on the GS , there were always a lot of wind noise on my helmet after 75mph.
The RT has a bit of sporty body position, mainly for the legs, but I’ve made a trip from Lisbon to Sevilla last week and it was very comfortable and a joyful ride. I loved to use the active cruise control. I had a blast using it. It’s a marvelous feature to have on a Tourer and I love the horn ! That is a real cool up grade that every bike should be equipped, specially within a big bike. Overall I’m very happy with the 2021RT. My pillion says that the seat and the top case are more comfortable than on the GS. She just misses the highest position - But you can’t have everything at the same time -.I love the aesthetics of the new front and the lights are fantastic! You see everything and everyone sees you.😎👌🏻
Thanks for the nice review 🙏🏼
Yes I agree with regard to the weather protection on the bike - and see my pinned comment re the buttons...
As always a great review :-) One point that wasn't mentionned is the positionning of the mirrors when you filter through traffic. Because they are positionned so low, i have always found this annoying on the RT when you need to pass car mirrors. But this is really my only point against the RT, for the rest it is a great bike with excellent weather protection as you said.
Yes it is an excellent machine and most of my gripes are pretty minor….
I like to say a huge thank you for braving that terribly weather much appreciated showing us just how awesome the RT is in bad weather some of those puddles were massive , I'm sure you know now that the 4 buttons are for your favourites like heated grips and seat , really enjoying this video I'm a far weather rider but watching you gives me more confidence thank you
Thank you for watching Dan!
Thanks, for the review, that just came off my list - Over complicating switches is one of my pet hates so the heated grip palaver is enough to put me off completely.
Andy, did you read any of the comments from the initial review you did of the RT a couple of weeks ago when numerous people told you there's shortcut buttons to the heating etc on the left fairing? More homework needed reading the owners manuals prior to reviewing/recording.
I did of course read the comments from my first ride video Justin (I read EVERY comment on my videos), I even pinned a comment to that video about the buttons. This video was recorded back in March/April long before the first video was published and my error pointed out. My bad! Apologies.....
@@thomasoneill2337 Thanks Thomas - you've mentined that several times now, I have received your message and it has had your desired effect on me. Well done.
@@TheMissendenFlyer , thanks Andy. I enjoy all your videos except this one. Being the owner of a 21 plate RT, it cheeses everyone off when the bike is criticised unnecessarily when it fact all the technology is easy to access with a little homework first.
I'd still rather have a dedicated button....just my opinion, if you like those pre-programmed favourites buttons instead then that's great!
@@TheMissendenFlyer I currently have the heated menu programmed to the Diamond button on my B… At least until I find something more important to set it to
On the TFT and App...I have the 1250GS Adventure 2021'....the app is very spotty at best...when you take a call it drops connection from the TFT amd to reconnect you have to turn the bike off and start it again...might be an iOS thing with Apple (12 ProMax)...don't know about Android...but it's very finicky...love it when it works but 30% of the time it's frustrating... it will even disconnect on long hauls for no reason...BMW needs to fix this if they are not going to put Nav in the TFT which is what they should do...thanks and great review as always...
Exactly my point Matt - it's not just BMW, my Honda Goldwing Apple carplay is sketchy at best (to the point I no longer bother to try and use it), I've never got Triumph connectivity to work on any bike with it yet, etc....I'm not singling out the RT or BW here...
I like the fairing, it's slope just looks futuristic
Great honest review. Am considering a RT but all these problems put me off. With that kind of money I expect it all to work properly.
I own a GS, with the Nav VI, and I completely agree with how you feel. I've also tried the BMW connected app... It's better than nothing, but I rather like GPS being a stand alone.
Glad we concur!
Andy your videos always make me want to jump on my bike and go for a ride
Good to hear! Even in this weather??
That is a very fair review in my opinion. Having owned R/T’s in the past, and ridden them a lot, they would benefit from a reverse gear to help when moving them about in a garage or drive. Plus I think the front looks too busy.
Glad we concur Robin!
@@TheMissendenFlyer I used to ride them professionally in the 80’s as well as owning them since. Now I’m a lot older I find them brilliant to ride but just too heavy to move around. Great videos, keep them coming. Thanks
You might need to research the manual regarding shortcuts in the menu system. The R1200 RT that I have 2017 (719) has the up switch on the menu button settable as a menu shortcut, easily set to land anywhere in the system. Easy exit is by pushing the select wheel left, exiting back out completely! The fairing is all about weather protection! The weight is an issue in that I am unable to pick it up on my own, something necessary when miles out of nowhere in Australia. Cheers from Oz
Yes on the buttons - see my pinned comment
Hallo, overall a good video, but you don't have to faff about with all the menus for the heating. Just press button 2 on the left of the fairing and the heating is on the screen.
Still more faff than I would like.....
I’m on a 1250 GS Adventure right now and the RT would be the next step for me when the Mrs B and I do get to tour together when the girls grow up for sure; I just couldn’t afford the GW or see myself on one as the RT would do everything we’d need so well especially considering the EU network👌
Thank you. Enjoyed the floods at the end. Quite exciting, really.
Another great review and I love this bike. It would probably be my 1st choice from the BMW catalogue. Looks being rather subjective, I disagree with you on the looks, which I rather like and much prefer to those of the GS. I do agree with your comments on the unnecessarily complex TFT functionally. Without wishing to appear a luddite, i think manufacturers have gone completely over the top with their obsession with TFT's and made them so complicated that they can only be a distraction when riding.
Couldn't agree more Gareth.....
I much prefer this abbreviated pros/cons review. Great job. Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for another great review. Just to show how preferences can vary, I love the iPhone navigation integration on my GS; I sold the Garmin Navigator that came with it. Also, I despise the adaptive cruise control (my wife’s car has it) and would pay extra to not have it. You’re exactly right about the heated grips menu nonsense. On marginal days I’m always turning the grips on and off, with the button on the right side.
Thanks again.
I think BMW has built in button pushing to satisfy the newer, younger riders that will take over as we dinosaurs become history. The RT appears to be quite a good wave runner also. Another "pro"to your list. 👍👍🙋♂️
My #1 concern is being able to push the bike around to park etc...@62 I weigh 140-150lbs. Im strong and athletic but weight is weight plus I will have it loaded with touring gear....The GoldWing at least has reverse.
...yes that would stop me being able to live with one - surprised how top heavy it feels compared to my GS