BMW R 1150 RT (2000-2001) Specs, Performance & Photos

After the great success of the R 1100 RT, which gained a good reputation with its high level of touring comfort and sporty characteristics, BMW released a new model in 2001.

With the bar raised high by the previous model, BMW designed the 2001 R 1150 RT with only light modifications. They installed the engine in the proven chassis used by the R 1150 GS and left the visual aspect almost unchanged.

The only parts visually revised were the upper part of the full fairing and the headlamp with a clear glass design, which had separately configured dipped and main beam reflectors.

For the R 1150 RT model, the engineers increased the capacity of the boxer engine from 1.085cc to 1,130cc, and the engine output was also increased to 95 hp with a peak at 7,250 rpm and 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) of torque available at 5,500 rpm.

Due to the increased performance, a new EVO braking system was installed on the bike with four-piston calipers and two 320 mm discs on the front, and one 267 mm disc on the rear. This made the R 1150 RT the first motorcycle fitted with the newly developed BMW Motorrad Integral ABS with an integral electric brake booster, which was the most advanced and effective braking system available on the market at the time.

As standard features, the 2001 BMW R 1150 RT came with side panniers, a full fairing with an adjustable windshield, an analog and digital instrumentation panel, a dual seat, a rear luggage rack, passenger grab handles, die-cast aluminum wheels, and a chromed muffler.