BMW R 1250 RS — Top Speed 230 km/h (143 mph)

Is the BMW R 1250 RS a good buy? Quick answer

The BMW R 1250 RS has a listed top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph) with 136 hp, 143 Nm torque, 1000cc+ engine, 243 kg curb weight. It sits in the Touring segment and is better matched to experienced sport riders than absolute beginners. Compare rivals side-by-side using the tools on this page.

Feature Value
Brand BMW
Model BMW R 1250 RS
Engine size Above 1000cc
Power 136 hp
Torque 143 Nm
Cylinder / Valve Double Cylinder, 8 valves
Weight 243 kg (536 lb)
Front Brake Twin disc brake, floating brake discs, diameter 320 mm, 4-piston radial brake caliper
Rear Brake Single disc brake, diameter 276 mm, 2-piston floating caliper
Seat Height 82 cm (32.3 in)
Front Tyre 120/70 ZR17
Rear Tyre 180/55 ZR17
Cooling Liquid Cooled
Front Suspension Upside-down telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Cast aluminum single-sided swingarm with BMW Motorrad Paralever, WAD shock absorber, spring preload continuously adjustable hydraulically by handwheel, rebound damping adjustable by handwheel
Motorcycle Type Touring
Top Speed 230 km/h (143 mph)
Fuel Capacity 18 L (4.8 US gal)
Fuel Consumption 5.5 L/100 km (42.8 mpg US)
Prevalence of Service Network
Service Quality
Spare Parts Availability
Price $15,695
For Other Motorcycle Price Lists Click for BMW Price List

Spec-based reading of the BMW R 1250 RS as a Touring: focus on the numbers that match how you ride — power, weight, seat height, and fuel range — then verify with a dealer test ride.

Pros

  • Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management

Cons

  • Heavy curb weight (~243 kg / 536 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care

Who is it for?

Best suited for long-distance and highway riders.

Who is it not for?

Less ideal for brand-new riders looking for a first motorcycle.

Commuting / city use

As a touring motorcycle, city use is possible, but size and weight may need more attention in dense traffic.

Highway / longer rides

Highway comfort, range, and passenger/luggage use are the strengths of the touring segment.

Good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 1250 RS a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Seat height & rider fit

Seat height is about 820 mm (32.3 in) — mid-range, but personal fit still matters.

Fuel economy & range

Listed fuel use is about 5.5 L/100 km (~42.8 mpg US). With a ~18 L tank, theoretical range is around 327 km (real-world range varies).

Two-up riding

Two-up comfort depends on seat length, passenger pegs, and load capacity — check fit with a passenger before long trips.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Our specification data lists 230 km/h (143 mph) for the BMW R 1250 RS.

How much horsepower does the BMW R 1250 RS have?

Listed power is 136 hp.

How much torque does the BMW R 1250 RS have?

Listed torque is 143 Nm.

What is the engine size of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Engine displacement is listed as above 1000 cc.

How much does the BMW R 1250 RS weigh?

Curb weight is listed at about 243 kg (536 lb).

What is the seat height of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Seat height is about 820 mm (32.3 in).

What is the fuel economy of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Listed consumption is about 5.5 L/100 km (about 42.8 mpg US).

What is the fuel range of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Theoretical range is around 327 km based on tank size and listed consumption; real-world range varies with riding style.

Is the BMW R 1250 RS liquid cooled?

Yes — it is listed as liquid-cooled.

How many cylinders does the BMW R 1250 RS have?

It is listed as a 2-cylinder engine.

Is the BMW R 1250 RS good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 1250 RS a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Is the BMW R 1250 RS good for commuting?

The BMW R 1250 RS can work well for commuting, although its size and touring-focused design may be more than some riders need for short urban trips.

Is the BMW R 1250 RS good for highway riding?

With a listed top speed of 230 km/h, the BMW R 1250 RS has enough performance for typical highway speeds and overtaking. Long-distance comfort still depends on riding position, wind protection and rider preference.

Is the BMW R 1250 RS suitable for short riders?

Seat height is about 820 mm (32.3 in) — mid-range, but personal fit still matters.

Is the BMW R 1250 RS A2 licence friendly?

A2 licence fit depends on power and power-to-weight limits (≤35 kW and ≤0.2 kW/kg). Based on listed figures, it may exceed typical A2 limits unless a restricted kit version exists.

What are the pros of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management.

What are the cons of the BMW R 1250 RS?

Heavy curb weight (~243 kg / 536 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care.


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