I just finished an 8000 mile trip from South Dakota to Deadhorse Alaska on my 1250 RT. Put the Mosko Moto Reckless on the back seat area to have soft cases, added a SW Motek bash plate under it and the usual Ilium crash bars with road pegs. I changed to TKC 80 knobbies in Fairbanks. I did the 90degree days, the 42 degree rain days, did the mud north of the arctic circle (have to turn off traction control for that). This bike can do It all! I was never disappointed, no need for a GS. I’m so glad you are enjoying yours as well.
I owned the FJR1300 and I would never trade my RT for the FJR. Totally different engine and does nor provide the low center of gravity that the RT provides. My last three bikes have been the RT and it never fails to put a smile in my face….
Loved my 2016 RT1200, but sold for a GS1250, which I’ve also enjoyed. I miss the high speed stability of the RT, and can only imagine this 1250 would be even better. I can agree that the wind protection is excellent, but in hot weather a bit more air circulation would be nice. Overall an excellent sport tourer, probably the best.
Glad to hear that BMW also has app connect issues, I turfed my Ducati Connect app on my Multistrudel after 2 or 3 month and installed a Zumo XT. Somebody has to explain to me why BMW and Ducati do not utilize Apple Car play and Andoid Auto - both companies produce CARS with just that. Talk to your 4 wheel engineers for Pete's sake. As for the Michelin Road 6 (I run non GT's), just jumped over the 10000 km mark with what appears more than half the tread left. I returned from a 5200 km trip about a week ago from Manitoba through ND into MT over Beartooth Pass into WY and CO, into SD's Black Hills and back home.
I will be going to Italy in two months with my brother-in-law and a couple friends. They’re renting Harleys. I ride a Goldwing and thought the RT would be closer to the Goldwing than the Harleys. I did go sit on one at a dealer couple days ago and know that I will be a little more cramped than I am on my ‘23 Goldwing,but I’m truly looking forward to spending six days on the bike in Europe. You put me at ease about renting the RT. Great video thank you very much.
I live in New Zealand and own a 2021 FJR, they are heavy. But the only time I notice the wight is moving her around the garage as with all these big bikes. Out on the road my biggest problem is all my mates wanting to ride her. At the time I was buying her it was a toss up between FJR and your RT, for me in the end it cam down to price. RT had more features but of course you pay for them. In NZ the price differnce was 10K RT dearer, the extra features were not that important to me. Great bike though, Love my FJR she rides very similar to the RT.
I bought a 2022 RT spec’d out much like yours and absolutely love it: 18250 miles in less than two years (29,3770 KM). It’s my 5th beemer in 30 years, and definitely the best yet.
I bought a 2023 RT last December and now have almost 5,000 miles on it. I still love in (although I just rode a Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak the other day..) and like you, think that the RT checks all the boxes. Super comfortable, great wind and rain protection, smooth over the bumps and handles like a beast in Dynamic, looks great and has all the creature comforts. I too was thinking about the 900 XR, but chose the RT partially due to your reviews. Keep the videos coming and ride safe.
Had one of these and was pretty happy with it. Its Achilles heel is when it gets hot, like he said. I live in Oklahoma, and when it got hot, it was point blank brutal.
"I will forget this day as soon as the sun comes out" 🤣🤣🤣Words to go motorcycle touring by. Have to say, I talk more about the days I got a good soaking, than the 25'C sunny days. Many years ago a friend of mine purchased a R100RS (if you remember those) following a BMW Open Day. Within a week he had exchanged it for the R100RT. You could ride that bike at 90 mph (I did) and feel like you were sat on an armchair in your lounge. Always dreamed of a FJ1100...honestly living in Germany, and doing European tours my choice would be the R1250RT all day long. Excellent review as always. Have to say I preferred the previous version with the 'proper' gauges over that huge TFT but that's probably just me....👍
Gotta love you European riders! 5000 I’m in 14 days. Just last weekend, I did a ride here in western Alberta. Gravel, Banff-Jasper Parkway through our mountains and back home. 895 km in 12 hours as we stopped many times to sight see. My last ADV bike, a KTM 990, did an Alaska trip. Had urgency to return home near the last. Did 4 days 950-1250 km each day. 600-700 I’m is just a days’ ride for us.
Yea, I was born and raised in Michigan for over 40 years, could easily do what you are sayin and do it before lunch & just change those km to miles. I never understood "this" either till I started living in Europe. Roads are not so straight and distances between things is far fewer. It's really that simple. BTW, when I did a trip out to the Grand Canyon from Detroit, I did 2 days out, 1100 miles per day and did the same back, all on a Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird (just one example of many trips in the States). Looks like you need to do some more serious riding, gotta love Canucks. Good luck Flames! You'll need it, the Red Wings will destroy you again this season 🤣 take care, Scott P.S. Now I'm just having some fun with you. The point of this video was all the different riding environments/conditions/temp extremes/roads etc., nothing to do with the distance 😁 if it was then the words "Iron Butt" would be in the title.
I own a 2019 FJR1300 semi automatic with electronic suspension. Thats my second FJR, previous was 2009. Me and wife at the back almost 1100km one day on our roadtrip to Croatia, no problem. Was thinking before about RT, but would have to sell not only my 2009 FJR but also 2006 xv1900. But decided to sell old FJR, keep the xv1900 and buy 2019 FJR. Could not be happier :)
Great video and great review. My Navigation has never let me down when I figured out that turning off notifications (i.e. do not disturb) stops it dropping out. I’ve found it more accurate and now they’ve added traffic to it it’s even better.
I ride also the RT1250 and for me it ‘s the best bike I’ve ever had. The connectivity of the BMW-Navigator was at the beginning a little tricky, but now I use it every time without problems. The Wunderlich-cylinder-protector I ‘ve changed after stupid fall in my garage. They are not so solid as it seems. Now I’m using the original BMW-cover. The FJR feels much heavier because of the higher gravity centre.
Nice review. Totally agree with everything you say about his bike. I have the previous gen 1250RT and have put 15000 miles on it in less than three years... comfortable, practical, economical, nimble and sporty. Love it! 😁
Seeing your videos made me comfortable to buy the same motorcycle (mine's a blue 23'). It's unfortunate that you lose connection with the BMW app so much. I use an iPhone 11 and I never lose the connection. In fact I rather like the BMW connected app (especially the lean angle stats and stuff like that). Thanks for the videos!
Loving my 2017 RT 1200 it’s my first BMW and I’m totally hooked. Would I trade it for anything else yes ….. for a newer RT when finances allow. Amazing fuel economy for such a big bike i average 63 mpg UK and I’m no slouch either. Great review Scott loving the channel 👍
I recently discovered your channel and really like it. I like your style of review. I was glad to see you taking the RT on the gravel, sand and water crossing roads. Thank you.
In Switzerland, you can still buy the FJR 1300, the distributor bought a lot of them. I wanted a sport tourer with fairing, shaft drive, efficient heated grips and cruise control. I've test ridden the RT, great bike, but I've chosen the FJR because of the behavior of the 4 in line, I prefer it to the flat twin. The RT is fun to ride because it is explosive in low RPMs. But the FJR is, in my opinion, more satisfying for it's behavior when you rev it. And the sound of the 4 in line is, to me ears, more pleasant than the flat twin. Did not have to buy it new, found a used one (of the last gen). If I wouldn't find not 6 speed last gen FJR anymore, I'd go for the RT, probably.
I agree, the FJR has a Solid Power plant 😁 noting close to a twin. I tried a GS few years ago and was so disappointed in the performance that I chose the FJR. I will have to try a new RT to see if they improved.
I own my second RT now (and intermediate a K1600 GT for 1 year). All what you are telling i can confirm by 100%. Total km on both RT combined over 50000. I'd had the Road 5 GT and Road 6GT on the bike (after Conti,Metzeler, Bridgestone) but I personally came finaly to the Dunlop Roadsmart 4 GT which harmonizes best ( I think). Maybe you go and try. Best whishes from the Black Forest !
I love my 1250 RT, the previous model with lovely dials. Looking at alternatives for the GPS, but it works. Took it to the French Alps last year, and the room was plenty for one week! 😂
I have the same bike as Karl! I've wanted an RT for quite some time, but we never had a local BMW dealership...until about 1.5 years after I opted for the KTM. 🤦 I had a Super Tenere when I was first very serious about the RT after getting to demo one. After having the KTM for a few years now, the boxer didn't feel quite as impressive when I got to demo an RT again this year. However, the 17" front wheel makes the RT feel quite a bit more nimble than my KTM SAS. I'm having a real motorcycle existential crisis on what to do, haha.
Another great video, love it! I drive the same bike, purchase in March of this year, went to Sardinia in june, Bretagne in August and in Misano for the MotoGP last week end (always with my wife). We are both in love with the RT. You need to make some stickers, I would love to have "Nothing to prove" on my bike
I agree with your swiss army knife verdict. I switched to a RT recently from a Pan and the RT is the better overal bike and much better suited as a daily. I also use the RT to commute except for real icey conditions. However... if I just want to have a nice ride on a beautiful summer evening I will take out my VFR...
There is a place here in my town that rents late model RT’s, so when it comes time to upgrade my K1600 I’ve got to check one of those out. I should sell my FJR. But my Honda ST1300 will always be my back up bike. Thanks for the review and I will check your video on the K1600.
Thank you! BTW, I owned the old ST1100, back in 2001 (U.S. version), one of the best bikes I've ever owned, if Honda was still making it today, I'd probably own the "todays" version of it instead of the RT (well...it'd probably be a tough decision). Weight was low like on the RT and shaft drive and solid Honda reliability 👍👍 take care, Scott
I owned a 2022 Goldwing DCT Tour. One of the most uncomfortable seats I've ever experienced. I put 8000 miles on it in 6 months and sold it. Super reliable and a real mile cruncher but that seat is so hard..I'm looking at the RT now.
I owned 2 FJR's - a 2007 and a 2014. Now I ride a 2021 RT and in my opinion it is a far superior bike due to (1) that engine - the boxer is torquier especially at low RPM's and has much more appealing character (although the FJR mill is also brilliant in its own right), (2) center of gravity feels much lower - and in my opinion not only makes the bike easier to move around the garage but is also more agile in technical twisties (3) it's thoroughly modern and updated - yes, that BMW proprietary navigation is a debacle and like you, I've fitted a proper Garmin - but the rest of the system (and bike) is beautifully designed and current and functional (4) availability of integrated must-haves like central locking, security system, color matched trunk and driving lights and power port and, and...the BMW is more expensive but also comes with all the stuff you eventually need to find a solution for on the FJR that does not look or feel as integral to the design and (5) ergonomics - the FJR splays your legs which contributes to fatigue over time and while the RT looks and likely is wider from the cockpit, it feels smaller because your legs are closer together. The FJR is still a great bike, but the Beemer is simply better. Great videos - love the content keep it up please!
For my 2022 R 1250 RT, the most stable navigation solution was to re-use an old iPhone as a dedicated bike phone. I use an old iPhone X with a cracked screen and a questionable battery. I reset the iPhone to factory defaults, installed the latest iOS, removed all apps that didn’t need to be on the phone, installed connected as the only additional app on the phone. The phone has never disconnected while riding in the last 10,000 km. I also carry my regular phone paired to my helmet. And do not pair the helmet to the tft. It’s been working stable for me.
I've just ridden up from South West France on my nice blue 21 RT Sport with standard (short) screen. Temperature was 36C most of the way. I wear a Klim Marrakesh jacket and Rokker jeans and when moving on the bike I was surprisingly comfortable. I avoid toll motorways but use non-toll ones and averaged 64.2 mpg which as you say is remarkable. Although I took a Zumo XT as a back-up I decided to try and go the whole way with the BMW app (iPhone 13 mini). The only disconnections I suffered were after a stop, when the wifi needed to be manually reconnected (I'm now wondering if my Innov wifi was interfering, I'll have to test it) but the map mode never disconnected whilst on the move, and the navigation instructions were excellent. Never took the XT out of my tank bag! At 5000 miles I now need a new front Michelin Road 5, which is a little disappointing, but will probably go for Road 6's as replacements... Having dropped my previous RT on grass I won't be doing any sand runs on this one!! Nice review Scott, glad you're still loving the bike.
Thank you for the owner feed back! I too was a little disappointed with the durability of the Road 5's but it looks like it's a little different story with the 6's so far so good. I'm hoping to get 10k out of them but probably won't make it but at least I can hope! take care, Scott
Thanks Scott for sharing your expereinces on two wheels. I am the happy owner of an R1250RS, a very similar motorbike than yours (a bit more oriented to the sport component in the binomial sport/tourer than the RT, I dare to say) and I would appreciate your opinion about tyres based on your experience in different bikes and tyres. I am currently riding on a set of a Road 5 (not the GT version) and I am really happy with them indeed. But now I was hesitating for next set of tyres, between Road 6 and Power 6. I always thought that mounting the same tyre front/rear was the most reccomendable choice but then, for the use I usually do (a lot of city and then as much secondary twisted roads as free time I have), I thought that it could be a good solution also mounting a Road 6 in rear and a Power 6 in front. So, this way I could maybe get a bit more grip for the twisties in front, while keeping a good lasting in the rear (bearing in mind that I do a lot of city). Apart from the performance, which is the priority, I guess I would also get to equal the mileage for both tyres which I don't think is a bad idea neither. What do you think? Thanks for your videos and nice ridings!
Quite a different outcome than you initial video where you praised the TFT GPS. What mount (I mean how you attach the Garmin mount to the handlebars)? This application (Garmin for guidance, TFT for situational awareness) is exactly how I would set mine up. Do you know if the ‘23+ bikes have improved the TFT GPS reliability?
I’ve posted before I have exactly the same as you sinceMay here in the UK , I too love it I do have a small issue of an unstable weave at 65 mph and over just got back from a 2,500 mile trip to the French Alps &it was dreadful I fitted Mich road 6 get’s too b4 I left still does it have you had anything like I’m experiencing? Keep safe &keep the excitement videos coming 🎉👍👍
I compared the new Michelin 6 to the Pirelli Angel GTII and I have to say I'm going back to the Pirelli Angel GTII. They just have something more all round, especially in the twisties 😊
Thank you for this informative opinion on your RT1250. Really enjoyed the video and would be interested on your FJR thoughts, if you ever get a chance to review one.
If I lived on your continent, no brainer - RT every day of the week because of your roads, touring destination options and weather. However, for hotter climates ( like Australia) I find the RT fairing does a more than excellent job but in temps of 30C and above, I just don’t get the breeze I need to stay cool (whether screen is up or down). I now ride a Harley Davidson Sport Glide and put a 19” Memphis shades El Paso screen on and it’s so good for Australian conditions. Much more breeze with adequate protection (and I’ve ridden in some of the worst Australian weather hot cold and wet). I tour 5-8 days at a time (generally 2-3,000klms per tour) and it’s comfortable. Would I like an RT?…. Sure. Do I need an RT? …. No. But it’s one hell of a great motorcycle design for the conditions of Europe.
Agreed! If I was in your shoes I'd be on a different bike, there is just way too much wind protection. On this video trip, where it was 30 + degrees every day (and a lot of days it went to 36°+), next time I'll put the shorter windscreen on, the "Sport" Screen, 4" shorter than the normal and see if that makes a difference, it will help but there is still a lot of fairing on the RT.
Great Video! You wouldn‘t trade in an RT for an FJR, even if it was the „Ultimate Edition“. I‘ve driven an FJR vor 7 years and the RT is a much more modern concept overall. It’s more agile, the ergonomics are way better and the electronics are BY FAR better. The RT also feels much lighter (Boxer engine), although the numbers are not that much different.
Nice review!! I love the bike and the color. Reminds me of my first moped (1992) I spray painted in a near similar color, a Puch Maxi.. ❤ 2w ago i was at my dealer and tried sitting on a 2021 RT. Was anxious because of my length, but now I really want it😂
Thanks for the super video, can you please confirm that the panniers are 35 litres? I can't find their capacity anywhere on the BMW site or in fact on the net. I picked my new RT up last week and even the dealership didn't know the capacity.
Great video, but you always have a problem with BMW navigation 😅 I noticed you had the same issue even with K1600. When I wanted to buy one of them it really discouraged me, like why to pay so much when it is not working properly.. In the end, I have to say, that I did not have such an issue while testing RT nor I have it on my new K1600.. I had a small problem with bluetooth connection but it was fixed by firmware update. I really think you might consider that problem is in your phone, not in your beatiful RT 😀
Great review Scott. Spooky I know but I have the identical bike and rode from the UK to Sardinia back in June. Loved every minute. I noted your comments about the TFT navigation being intermittent with your phone. I have to say that I have had no such problems fortunately. I did note that you have engine bars fitted which I currently don't. Would you recommend that I might do similar? I'm interested in your thinking here. Thanks again. Matt
Thank you! Oh yea, get the Wunderlich bars, love them. I made 2 videos about them, slow-sotion and everything. th-cam.com/video/iqOoY01a9Ik/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/5O6ggRG2-RE/w-d-xo.html take care, Scott
Great review as always, and a great bike. Previously owned an RT but found the leg space a little cramped ( I am 6' 2" ) currently ride a 1250 GSA, but when the time comes to change bikes I am certainly going to look at the RT again.
I have a 23 RT and I’m 6’1”. What I did was order the ‘high seat’ and that gives me plenty of legroom. So that’s my suggestion. I also have the racing blue metallic color
If your TFT is still disconnecting when in map mode, you must have out of date software! I’ve just got back from a 1500 mile European trip and the mapping was faultless, and didn’t drop out once. Including one day that was over 13 hours in the saddle, not a single disconnect. I’m riding a 2021 RT with latest software… definitely get your checked as disconnects are no longer a thing. (On mine anyway)
Really nice review! Interesting regarding the navigation. I have a 2022 K1600 GTL with an iPhone 14 Pro Max, running the latest iOS and Connected App updates - no dropouts or disconnection issues. Maybe this is different for Android though. I just hate that the Connected App doesn't allow for non-announcing shaping points, and with the current iOS version, every waypoint is announced with "you have arrived at your stop." But it's been very stable however.
Great Review. I own a 2011 R1200RT. I also ride a 2020 R1250RT. If I was to say which is my favourite I would choose the 2011 model. Why? Well these are my personal views and everyone is different but: a) I don't like the suspension on the newer model. I just cannot find a setting that is right for me. Its either too stiff or becomes too bouncy; b) I prefer the power delivery on the older bike. I don't know if it does but it feels like it has better low speed torque; c) I don't like the way the newer model tries to rev higher. It does so very well but to me it feels forced and 'thrashy' As I say, these are my personal opinions and others will think different. Overall, both bikes are awesome machines and certainly the weather protection, luggage capacities etc are excellent. I believe the RT is the abbreviation for Reise-Tourer, or travel tourer and it certainly does what is says on the tin.
Great review as always Scott. As a ‘23 RT owner always happy to see content on it. Totally agree on all counts. And the app dropping sucks. Also, did you know the inductive charging DOES NOT work on iPhones 13 onwards due to placement of contact patch. BMW confirmed this. It’s as much Apple to blame but it makes the navigation even more frustrating. Compare that to the BMW cradle which I had on my GSA which is faultless (as no Wi-Fi, just Bluetooth with maps displayed on phone). 🤷 Best. G.
Yea, I've heard of that, Apple will be different just to be different from the rest of the market...sigh. But you can still charge it by USB in the compartment BUT that is a huge hassle if you have to plug, unplug every time 🙁🤦♂️ I did use the inductive charging on this trip with my Samsung S22, it was great, every time I got off the RT and grabbed my phone to use it, guess what, it was always at full charge, never had to worry about battery level. But smart phone navigation is always going to be dependent upon the smart phone, that IS the problem. take care, Scott
@@NothingToProve Indeed. And yes, thankfully there’s a USB connection, but try finding a short enough cable with a right angled connector. I couldn’t find one even on the ‘everything store’. Cramming in anything else is a challenge. Ah wait… BMW conveniently makes a cable for the CE 04 that would be suited. The price? A snip at €45. Go figure! Cheers. G.
I love this review. I'm in the market for a new (to me) bike, since a minor incident totalled my r1200GS. I don't have the budget for a recent model. Aiming for a 2017 model with low mileage. I got the GS for its versatile ability. Living in NL however so only asphalt to be found. I was impressed with some footage of the gravel/sand footage in this video. That trip looks amazing. Do you have more videos of that trip??
Thank you! No, I have not made any other videos of that trip as of yet. Will start making trip videos, a series of 4 or 5, once the weather gets cold and I no longer have any more bikes to review. take care, Scott P.S. Except for the one, where I was getting on the ferry, it got so little views that it discouraged me from making more.
Again a nice review. I own a R1250RT 2023 myself and I am also very happy about it. What mount did you use to mount the Garmin on your Handle bars? I am also considering to add a Garmin for the same reason you are..... Instable connection between motor and Smartphone....😞
Complimenti, bella moto e bel viaggio! Vorrei sapere se la tua RT ha avuto danni dopo aver percorso strade sterrate e guadato torrenti. Grazie e buona strada!
Great torture test for the fantastic RT! I’ve got a loaded ‘22 model with Road 6 GTs and it pulls slightly to the left at highway speeds. Have you noticed anything like that with your bike? Thanks, ride safe and keep up the good work!
Great discussion on the RT! Even though I have a K1600 GTL, I can appreciate the agility and fun the RT brings. It’s the only bike that I could swap my GTL for. I also use a Zumo XT after I ditched the Nav VI (it fits in the same slot with an adapter). The bike did great, but how did you do? What riding gear did you use and did it hold up in the weather?
I own a 1200 Rt (2009). I’ve rented a 1250 for rides in Spain & France. I prefer the 1200 over 1250. The 1200 seems much lighter. Both are excellent bikes.
Well, as you know, trip videos really don't get views on youtube any more. So I'm not in a hurry to spend days and days of editing for 5,000 views per video. But yes, I'll do them when I run out of bikes to ride this fall 👍😁
great review of looks like phenomenal machine, are we gonna see some video from that trip? Cheers V! PS: My lovely wife told me that I am ready for next mid size adventure bike upgrade, when you will do review on new 900 GS, can't wait.....
LOL! Thank you. The trip videos never really get views, so to be honest I'm not motivated to spend 20 hours on editing each video and get 5k views & make 10 bucks, 50 cents an hour, does not make for a very convincing business case. But with that said, probably this fall I will have time to sit down and do 3 or 4 episodes of the trip, I do have a lot of footage and Sardinia has some of the best roads I've ever been on in my entire life, so a couple of months 😊👌 take care, Scott
That’s my experience too, no disconnects and I’ve just got back from 1500 mile Euro Tour….. @NothingToProve, I recommend you check your software version!
Hi Scott, thanks for another interesting video. I am also very happy with my 2022 BMW 1250 RT and it is excellent, no doubts about it, but anyway- I love the boxer engine, still have my GS for the summertime-, do you think that the BMW K1600 GTL would be an “up grade” from the RT, could it be seen as a trade to do, or beyond the more powerful and different motor, the increased weight of the bike, it could affect that consideration of all around bike, that in fact the RT also means for me? I wouldn’t mind to up grade, but would not be bearable to lose nothing with the trade besides money spent. Would like to know your opinion on that, as we have approximately the same height, age and body structure. Thank you for your kind reply 👌🏻
Thank you. Well, the K1600 is a full on touring bike and with that comes many things including weight (about +80kg) and a focus on comfort, premium ownership and ability to crunch miles on the highways for months at a time. The competition is the Gold Wing which is about the same weight as the K1600. I personally don't want the extra weight and I still have the same wind protection as the K1600 with the RT and the torque of the RT is lower in the RPMs than the K1600, so to me the RT wins with weight & torque and it's a tie with wind protection. Storage is the same, in fact the case are the same, they just change the color & some things to fit it better. but the internal bags that you get for the cases are the exact same ones. So if you do change to the K1600, keep your internal bags they will fit the K1600 the same way. Pushing my RT around in the garage and pulling it out every time for a ride, that weight is enough for me. When I did the K1600GT video last year, I had replaced it with my RT in the garage for a few days and I could really feel the weight difference every time moving the bike around in the driveway and in parking lots...etc. By the 3rd day I was looking forward to giving it back and getting my light RT back. Hmm...never thought I'd say the RT is light...LOL! take care, Scott
@@NothingToProvethank you Scott, for giving me your personal opinion as I take it into serious consideration once I am grateful for the work that you do on NOTHING TO PROVE TH-cam Channel. and that’s what I thought. The weight of the bike plays an important role in the analysis and it changes the game…I was figuring that by myself but that’s an important confirmation until I do test the bike and I will give you my feedback when I got it done. Thanks again for your kind support ✌️✌️
Absolute shame that the BMW superwide screen & connectivity of the navi sucks. A reason not to buy any BMW with these displays in general. I still hold on tight on the Nav V on my R1200GSA. Anything newer seems to have many issues, including the Nav VI. Will hold on to the current V until it falls apart. Perhaps by that time there will be something decent out.
I have the '23 RT and haven't had any connectivity issues at all. The same with the satellite radio reception that I hear had issues on earlier years. I have had none to speak of. Yes, the antenna is somewhat weak, so when in heavily wooded areas it will break up, but in the open it's great.
Just today I installed a Garmin Zumo XT2 on my R1200RT where the Navigator V is supposed to go. There’s a company in Italy, Adapter3DMotorrad, that made the Zumo look like a factory navigator. I recommend it!
Thanks for the videos, love them, you said you can do 12 hour days, I have the exact same bike and my backside dies after a couple of hours, how do you manage? Have you changed the seat?
Thank you. No, it's the standard seat, I have not changed anything. Sure after 12 hours I want to get off the bike but I've spent that amount of time on several other bikes and this is by far the most comfortable, when comparing to all the other bikes. Bikes like the Gold Wing or other full dresser/touring bikes might get a little more comfortable but they weight a lot more and cost a lot more too. So everything is relative 🤷♂️ take care, Scott
I agree with Michelin's claims of improved longevity with the Road 6 over Road 5- I'm on to a second set of Road 6 on my RT following on from Road 5 and Metzler Roadtec 01s; more than 10% improvement. As to improved grip- I reckon the average rider, like me, wouldn't notice any difference.
Yep agreed, grip on almost any modern sport touring tire is great. I had a max lean angle of 41° on this trip, that was enough for me and any modern tire can maintain that lean with no problems at all. At 44° the Wunderlich bars start to scrape the ground 🙁
Don,t recall if i have asked this before but would you say the R1250RT have a sharper knee angle then the R1250GS? Or maybe just more "crouched" in the waist but knees are pretty much the same?
I LOVE m’y R1200RT. Much better that my ST1100 and even the 1300. Big? Not as big as the 1600 but soooo maneuverable! You have the colour I would love. Mine is grey. And I do t know why they don’t just put apple carplay and android auto o. Then. At the price of these machines new it would not make a difference. Cheers
Riding Harley ultra here in Canada long trips heavy but comfortable, got 2017 gsa light and fun. The noise from front wheel is very irritating 😯. Rt may be better option in long run. 😎🏍️💨💨💨💨💨👍🏻🇨🇦🍻 from bc
I have a 2022 with 8,000 miles I am very disappointed with the Navigation and also not having back-lit switches...I will sell it and buy a KTM Super Duke GT it's the bike I wanted before I thought I was ready for a quiet/comfortable touring bike....Also, the handle bar vibration is very noticeable on the 1250 RT.
I had the Road 5 on when I bought my RS and I got 17 000km on the front and 21 000km on the rear. Well lets put it this way - 95% of the time I pull away in second gear - there is just so much torque in the 1250 shift cam that you easily out perform other bikes at the stop lights when you in second gear. I replaced it with the Road 6 GT (apparently there are 2 versions - one for the much heavier bikes and then one for the touring 250kg-300kg bikes) I've done 6000km on them and they are still looking very good. BUT - my next bike is definitely the RT. 2025 Jan/Feb - want to see what the 2024 RT will be. To be honest I hope its the 1300cc engine as the 1250cc bikes will become a must sell and the price drop will be in my favour. But thx for the review - this just confirmed me buying one. There is no deciding if you like or dont like a bike in one 20min test ride - all bikes these days are nice. But following the Nothing to Prove channel you start to get used to how you review and how you as a person relate to me as a person and rider. I think you ride your bikes a bit harder than I do but on a brisk day we are on par. I bought the RS after your long term review and you said you'd rather pick the 900xr - but that is just not for me. The nice thing of this review is the variety in all the riding you had in 2 weeks. I do long stints - Cape Town to Johannesburg (1500km) in one day on the GS and now the RS - RS is much more comfy for me. But now that the wife is riding along - I think the RT becomes a bigger player
I just finished an 8000 mile trip from South Dakota to Deadhorse Alaska on my 1250 RT. Put the Mosko Moto Reckless on the back seat area to have soft cases, added a SW Motek bash plate under it and the usual Ilium crash bars with road pegs. I changed to TKC 80 knobbies in Fairbanks. I did the 90degree days, the 42 degree rain days, did the mud north of the arctic circle (have to turn off traction control for that). This bike can do It all! I was never disappointed, no need for a GS. I’m so glad you are enjoying yours as well.
I owned the FJR1300 and I would never trade my RT for the FJR. Totally different engine and does nor provide the low center of gravity that the RT provides. My last three bikes have been the RT and it never fails to put a smile in my face….
It's great hearing from actual owners! Thank you!
take care,
Scott
3 RTs?? How long are they lasting you?
3 RT ??? Must not be That good?
I had an FJR, bought a r1250rt, sold it and bought another FJR...
Loved my 2016 RT1200, but sold for a GS1250, which I’ve also enjoyed. I miss the high speed stability of the RT, and can only imagine this 1250 would be even better. I can agree that the wind protection is excellent, but in hot weather a bit more air circulation would be nice. Overall an excellent sport tourer, probably the best.
Glad to hear that BMW also has app connect issues, I turfed my Ducati Connect app on my Multistrudel after 2 or 3 month and installed a Zumo XT. Somebody has to explain to me why BMW and Ducati do not utilize Apple Car play and Andoid Auto - both companies produce CARS with just that. Talk to your 4 wheel engineers for Pete's sake. As for the Michelin Road 6 (I run non GT's), just jumped over the 10000 km mark with what appears more than half the tread left. I returned from a 5200 km trip about a week ago from Manitoba through ND into MT over Beartooth Pass into WY and CO, into SD's Black Hills and back home.
I will be going to Italy in two months with my brother-in-law and a couple friends. They’re renting Harleys. I ride a Goldwing and thought the RT would be closer to the Goldwing than the Harleys. I did go sit on one at a dealer couple days ago and know that I will be a little more cramped than I am on my ‘23 Goldwing,but I’m truly looking forward to spending six days on the bike in Europe.
You put me at ease about renting the RT. Great video thank you very much.
Seems to be the best all round tourng bike that exists bar none.Thks.
You always produce great videos and this is no exception. Love hearing your perspective.
Breezy, rainy, and chilly on the Oregon Coast today, so I decided to watch your videos instead. I navigate by Google as via, my phone. Works great!
I live in New Zealand and own a 2021 FJR, they are heavy. But the only time I notice the wight is moving her around the garage as with all these big bikes. Out on the road my biggest problem is all my mates wanting to ride her. At the time I was buying her it was a toss up between FJR and your RT, for me in the end it cam down to price. RT had more features but of course you pay for them. In NZ the price differnce was 10K RT dearer, the extra features were not that important to me. Great bike though, Love my FJR she rides very similar to the RT.
I bought a 2022 RT spec’d out much like yours and absolutely love it: 18250 miles in less than two years (29,3770 KM). It’s my 5th beemer in 30 years, and definitely the best yet.
I bought a 2023 RT last December and now have almost 5,000 miles on it. I still love in (although I just rode a Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak the other day..) and like you, think that the RT checks all the boxes. Super comfortable, great wind and rain protection, smooth over the bumps and handles like a beast in Dynamic, looks great and has all the creature comforts. I too was thinking about the 900 XR, but chose the RT partially due to your reviews. Keep the videos coming and ride safe.
Had one of these and was pretty happy with it. Its Achilles heel is when it gets hot, like he said. I live in Oklahoma, and when it got hot, it was point blank brutal.
"I will forget this day as soon as the sun comes out" 🤣🤣🤣Words to go motorcycle touring by. Have to say, I talk more about the days I got a good soaking, than the 25'C sunny days. Many years ago a friend of mine purchased a R100RS (if you remember those) following a BMW Open Day. Within a week he had exchanged it for the R100RT. You could ride that bike at 90 mph (I did) and feel like you were sat on an armchair in your lounge. Always dreamed of a FJ1100...honestly living in Germany, and doing European tours my choice would be the R1250RT all day long. Excellent review as always. Have to say I preferred the previous version with the 'proper' gauges over that huge TFT but that's probably just me....👍
Gotta love you European riders! 5000 I’m in 14 days. Just last weekend, I did a ride here in western Alberta. Gravel, Banff-Jasper Parkway through our mountains and back home. 895 km in 12 hours as we stopped many times to sight see. My last ADV bike, a KTM 990, did an Alaska trip. Had urgency to return home near the last. Did 4 days 950-1250 km each day. 600-700 I’m is just a days’ ride for us.
Yea, I was born and raised in Michigan for over 40 years, could easily do what you are sayin and do it before lunch & just change those km to miles. I never understood "this" either till I started living in Europe. Roads are not so straight and distances between things is far fewer. It's really that simple. BTW, when I did a trip out to the Grand Canyon from Detroit, I did 2 days out, 1100 miles per day and did the same back, all on a Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird (just one example of many trips in the States). Looks like you need to do some more serious riding, gotta love Canucks. Good luck Flames! You'll need it, the Red Wings will destroy you again this season 🤣
take care,
Scott
P.S. Now I'm just having some fun with you. The point of this video was all the different riding environments/conditions/temp extremes/roads etc., nothing to do with the distance 😁 if it was then the words "Iron Butt" would be in the title.
I own a 2019 FJR1300 semi automatic with electronic suspension. Thats my second FJR, previous was 2009. Me and wife at the back almost 1100km one day on our roadtrip to Croatia, no problem. Was thinking before about RT, but would have to sell not only my 2009 FJR but also 2006 xv1900. But decided to sell old FJR, keep the xv1900 and buy 2019 FJR. Could not be happier :)
Great video and great review. My Navigation has never let me down when I figured out that turning off notifications (i.e. do not disturb) stops it dropping out. I’ve found it more accurate and now they’ve added traffic to it it’s even better.
I recall always staying relatively dry in the rain, on my '85 Gold Wing. I miss that, and this is one of the things that I like about the RT.
I ride also the RT1250 and for me it ‘s the best bike I’ve ever had. The connectivity of the BMW-Navigator was at the beginning a little tricky, but now I use it every time without problems.
The Wunderlich-cylinder-protector I ‘ve changed after stupid fall in my garage. They are not so solid as it seems. Now I’m using the original BMW-cover. The FJR feels much heavier because of the higher gravity centre.
I have the same bike. I’m absolutely happy with my RT.
Regards from Switzerland
Great video Scott! It would be very nice if you would a complete breakdown of all sport tourers from budget to premium.Thanks for the superb work.
Nice review. Totally agree with everything you say about his bike. I have the previous gen 1250RT and have put 15000 miles on it in less than three years... comfortable, practical, economical, nimble and sporty. Love it! 😁
...your vid on the RT convinced me to get one.... its an amazing bike. Have a '21 in blue and just clocked 17k(miles) today, loving it.
Seeing your videos made me comfortable to buy the same motorcycle (mine's a blue 23'). It's unfortunate that you lose connection with the BMW app so much. I use an iPhone 11 and I never lose the connection. In fact I rather like the BMW connected app (especially the lean angle stats and stuff like that). Thanks for the videos!
Loving my 2017 RT 1200 it’s my first BMW and I’m totally hooked. Would I trade it for anything else yes ….. for a newer RT when finances allow. Amazing fuel economy for such a big bike i average 63 mpg UK and I’m no slouch either. Great review Scott loving the channel 👍
I recently discovered your channel and really like it. I like your style of review. I was glad to see you taking the RT on the gravel, sand and water crossing roads. Thank you.
Thank you and welcome aboard!
take care,
Scott
In Switzerland, you can still buy the FJR 1300, the distributor bought a lot of them. I wanted a sport tourer with fairing, shaft drive, efficient heated grips and cruise control. I've test ridden the RT, great bike, but I've chosen the FJR because of the behavior of the 4 in line, I prefer it to the flat twin. The RT is fun to ride because it is explosive in low RPMs. But the FJR is, in my opinion, more satisfying for it's behavior when you rev it. And the sound of the 4 in line is, to me ears, more pleasant than the flat twin. Did not have to buy it new, found a used one (of the last gen). If I wouldn't find not 6 speed last gen FJR anymore, I'd go for the RT, probably.
I agree, the FJR has a Solid Power plant 😁 noting close to a twin.
I tried a GS few years ago and was so disappointed in the performance that I chose the FJR.
I will have to try a new RT to see if they improved.
I own my second RT now (and intermediate a K1600 GT for 1 year). All what you are telling i can confirm by 100%. Total km on both RT combined over 50000. I'd had the Road 5 GT and Road 6GT on the bike (after Conti,Metzeler, Bridgestone) but I personally came finaly to the Dunlop Roadsmart 4 GT which harmonizes best ( I think). Maybe you go and try. Best whishes from the Black Forest !
Great video. Thanks for sharing your opinion. I am in the process of replacing my s1000xr by the rt!
I love my 1250 RT, the previous model with lovely dials. Looking at alternatives for the GPS, but it works. Took it to the French Alps last year, and the room was plenty for one week! 😂
Great to see a rider loving their steed.
I have the same bike as Karl! I've wanted an RT for quite some time, but we never had a local BMW dealership...until about 1.5 years after I opted for the KTM. 🤦
I had a Super Tenere when I was first very serious about the RT after getting to demo one. After having the KTM for a few years now, the boxer didn't feel quite as impressive when I got to demo an RT again this year. However, the 17" front wheel makes the RT feel quite a bit more nimble than my KTM SAS. I'm having a real motorcycle existential crisis on what to do, haha.
Maybe you can travel to the states to do a FJR vs RT comparison. It’s all for a worthy cause. 😜😜 Thanks Karl. 👍👍
Another great video, love it! I drive the same bike, purchase in March of this year, went to Sardinia in june, Bretagne in August and in Misano for the MotoGP last week end (always with my wife). We are both in love with the RT. You need to make some stickers, I would love to have "Nothing to prove" on my bike
I agree with your swiss army knife verdict. I switched to a RT recently from a Pan and the RT is the better overal bike and much better suited as a daily. I also use the RT to commute except for real icey conditions. However... if I just want to have a nice ride on a beautiful summer evening I will take out my VFR...
Totally agree with what you say about this bike, it's big but it handles like scooter. Super comfortable and great engine.
Just found your channel, and I like it. Very simple, clear and honest reviews! 😄👌
There is a place here in my town that rents late model RT’s, so when it comes time to upgrade my K1600 I’ve got to check one of those out. I should sell my FJR. But my Honda ST1300 will always be my back up bike. Thanks for the review and I will check your video on the K1600.
Thank you!
BTW, I owned the old ST1100, back in 2001 (U.S. version), one of the best bikes I've ever owned, if Honda was still making it today, I'd probably own the "todays" version of it instead of the RT (well...it'd probably be a tough decision). Weight was low like on the RT and shaft drive and solid Honda reliability 👍👍
take care,
Scott
Love the RT - would like to get one before they go to the 1300. I want exactly what you have here - blue, standard wind screen, large top box 👍
I owned a 2022 Goldwing DCT Tour. One of the most uncomfortable seats I've ever experienced. I put 8000 miles on it in 6 months and sold it. Super reliable and a real mile cruncher but that seat is so hard..I'm looking at the RT now.
I owned 2 FJR's - a 2007 and a 2014. Now I ride a 2021 RT and in my opinion it is a far superior bike due to (1) that engine - the boxer is torquier especially at low RPM's and has much more appealing character (although the FJR mill is also brilliant in its own right), (2) center of gravity feels much lower - and in my opinion not only makes the bike easier to move around the garage but is also more agile in technical twisties (3) it's thoroughly modern and updated - yes, that BMW proprietary navigation is a debacle and like you, I've fitted a proper Garmin - but the rest of the system (and bike) is beautifully designed and current and functional (4) availability of integrated must-haves like central locking, security system, color matched trunk and driving lights and power port and, and...the BMW is more expensive but also comes with all the stuff you eventually need to find a solution for on the FJR that does not look or feel as integral to the design and (5) ergonomics - the FJR splays your legs which contributes to fatigue over time and while the RT looks and likely is wider from the cockpit, it feels smaller because your legs are closer together. The FJR is still a great bike, but the Beemer is simply better. Great videos - love the content keep it up please!
Great real world owner review, Scott 👍. I can see an RT in my future 🤔. For now, very happy with my 1250RS.
That is beyond a regular review !! Awesome 👌
For my 2022 R 1250 RT, the most stable navigation solution was to re-use an old iPhone as a dedicated bike phone.
I use an old iPhone X with a cracked screen and a questionable battery. I reset the iPhone to factory defaults, installed the latest iOS, removed all apps that didn’t need to be on the phone, installed connected as the only additional app on the phone.
The phone has never disconnected while riding in the last 10,000 km.
I also carry my regular phone paired to my helmet. And do not pair the helmet to the tft. It’s been working stable for me.
Great content and amazing how you did off road. With my RS I start feeling discomfort as soon as there’s some gravel on the road 😳 Thanks ✌️
I've just ridden up from South West France on my nice blue 21 RT Sport with standard (short) screen. Temperature was 36C most of the way. I wear a Klim Marrakesh jacket and Rokker jeans and when moving on the bike I was surprisingly comfortable. I avoid toll motorways but use non-toll ones and averaged 64.2 mpg which as you say is remarkable. Although I took a Zumo XT as a back-up I decided to try and go the whole way with the BMW app (iPhone 13 mini). The only disconnections I suffered were after a stop, when the wifi needed to be manually reconnected (I'm now wondering if my Innov wifi was interfering, I'll have to test it) but the map mode never disconnected whilst on the move, and the navigation instructions were excellent. Never took the XT out of my tank bag! At 5000 miles I now need a new front Michelin Road 5, which is a little disappointing, but will probably go for Road 6's as replacements... Having dropped my previous RT on grass I won't be doing any sand runs on this one!! Nice review Scott, glad you're still loving the bike.
Thank you for the owner feed back! I too was a little disappointed with the durability of the Road 5's but it looks like it's a little different story with the 6's so far so good. I'm hoping to get 10k out of them but probably won't make it but at least I can hope!
take care,
Scott
Thanks Scott for sharing your expereinces on two wheels. I am the happy owner of an R1250RS, a very similar motorbike than yours (a bit more oriented to the sport component in the binomial sport/tourer than the RT, I dare to say) and I would appreciate your opinion about tyres based on your experience in different bikes and tyres.
I am currently riding on a set of a Road 5 (not the GT version) and I am really happy with them indeed. But now I was hesitating for next set of tyres, between Road 6 and Power 6. I always thought that mounting the same tyre front/rear was the most reccomendable choice but then, for the use I usually do (a lot of city and then as much secondary twisted roads as free time I have), I thought that it could be a good solution also mounting a Road 6 in rear and a Power 6 in front.
So, this way I could maybe get a bit more grip for the twisties in front, while keeping a good lasting in the rear (bearing in mind that I do a lot of city). Apart from the performance, which is the priority, I guess I would also get to equal the mileage for both tyres which I don't think is a bad idea neither.
What do you think?
Thanks for your videos and nice ridings!
Quite a different outcome than you initial video where you praised the TFT GPS. What mount (I mean how you attach the Garmin mount to the handlebars)? This application (Garmin for guidance, TFT for situational awareness) is exactly how I would set mine up.
Do you know if the ‘23+ bikes have improved the TFT GPS reliability?
I’ve posted before I have exactly the same as you sinceMay here in the UK , I too love it I do have a small issue of an unstable weave at 65 mph and over just got back from a 2,500 mile trip to the French Alps &it was dreadful I fitted Mich road 6 get’s too b4 I left still does it have you had anything like I’m experiencing? Keep safe &keep the excitement videos coming 🎉👍👍
I compared the new Michelin 6 to the Pirelli Angel GTII and I have to say I'm going back to the Pirelli Angel GTII. They just have something more all round, especially in the twisties 😊
Thank you for this informative opinion on your RT1250. Really enjoyed the video and would be interested on your FJR thoughts, if you ever get a chance to review one.
thanks, great review, great motorcycle!
If I lived on your continent, no brainer - RT every day of the week because of your roads, touring destination options and weather. However, for hotter climates ( like Australia) I find the RT fairing does a more than excellent job but in temps of 30C and above, I just don’t get the breeze I need to stay cool (whether screen is up or down). I now ride a Harley Davidson Sport Glide and put a 19” Memphis shades El Paso screen on and it’s so good for Australian conditions. Much more breeze with adequate protection (and I’ve ridden in some of the worst Australian weather hot cold and wet). I tour 5-8 days at a time (generally 2-3,000klms per tour) and it’s comfortable. Would I like an RT?…. Sure. Do I need an RT? …. No. But it’s one hell of a great motorcycle design for the conditions of Europe.
Agreed! If I was in your shoes I'd be on a different bike, there is just way too much wind protection. On this video trip, where it was 30 + degrees every day (and a lot of days it went to 36°+), next time I'll put the shorter windscreen on, the "Sport" Screen, 4" shorter than the normal and see if that makes a difference, it will help but there is still a lot of fairing on the RT.
@@NothingToProve love your honest content by the way👍
Great Video! You wouldn‘t trade in an RT for an FJR, even if it was the „Ultimate Edition“. I‘ve driven an FJR vor 7 years and the RT is a much more modern concept overall. It’s more agile, the ergonomics are way better and the electronics are BY FAR better. The RT also feels much lighter (Boxer engine), although the numbers are not that much different.
Nice review!!
I love the bike and the color. Reminds me of my first moped (1992) I spray painted in a near similar color, a Puch Maxi.. ❤
2w ago i was at my dealer and tried sitting on a 2021 RT. Was anxious because of my length, but now I really want it😂
My past experience on the FJR1300 is that is does not do well in crosswinds and turbulence (as from big trucks) in highway riding.
I bet adding that duffel if nothing else offered the solution to the problem of “no rider backrest”.
Thanks for the super video, can you please confirm that the panniers are 35 litres? I can't find their capacity anywhere on the BMW site or in fact on the net. I picked my new RT up last week and even the dealership didn't know the capacity.
Great video, but you always have a problem with BMW navigation 😅 I noticed you had the same issue even with K1600. When I wanted to buy one of them it really discouraged me, like why to pay so much when it is not working properly.. In the end, I have to say, that I did not have such an issue while testing RT nor I have it on my new K1600.. I had a small problem with bluetooth connection but it was fixed by firmware update. I really think you might consider that problem is in your phone, not in your beatiful RT 😀
I love the boxer engine, it's definetly one of the best of all time
Great review Scott. Spooky I know but I have the identical bike and rode from the UK to Sardinia back in June. Loved every minute. I noted your comments about the TFT navigation being intermittent with your phone. I have to say that I have had no such problems fortunately. I did note that you have engine bars fitted which I currently don't. Would you recommend that I might do similar? I'm interested in your thinking here. Thanks again. Matt
Thank you! Oh yea, get the Wunderlich bars, love them. I made 2 videos about them, slow-sotion and everything.
th-cam.com/video/iqOoY01a9Ik/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/5O6ggRG2-RE/w-d-xo.html
take care,
Scott
Awesome bike, that color is sweet.
Great review as always, and a great bike. Previously owned an RT but found the leg space a little cramped ( I am 6' 2" ) currently ride a 1250 GSA, but when the time comes to change bikes I am certainly going to look at the RT again.
I have a 23 RT and I’m 6’1”. What I did was order the ‘high seat’ and that gives me plenty of legroom. So that’s my suggestion. I also have the racing blue metallic color
If your TFT is still disconnecting when in map mode, you must have out of date software! I’ve just got back from a 1500 mile European trip and the mapping was faultless, and didn’t drop out once. Including one day that was over 13 hours in the saddle, not a single disconnect. I’m riding a 2021 RT with latest software… definitely get your checked as disconnects are no longer a thing. (On mine anyway)
Really nice review! Interesting regarding the navigation. I have a 2022 K1600 GTL with an iPhone 14 Pro Max, running the latest iOS and Connected App updates - no dropouts or disconnection issues. Maybe this is different for Android though. I just hate that the Connected App doesn't allow for non-announcing shaping points, and with the current iOS version, every waypoint is announced with "you have arrived at your stop." But it's been very stable however.
Great Review. I own a 2011 R1200RT. I also ride a 2020 R1250RT. If I was to say which is my favourite I would choose the 2011 model. Why? Well these are my personal views and everyone is different but:
a) I don't like the suspension on the newer model. I just cannot find a setting that is right for me. Its either too stiff or becomes too bouncy;
b) I prefer the power delivery on the older bike. I don't know if it does but it feels like it has better low speed torque;
c) I don't like the way the newer model tries to rev higher. It does so very well but to me it feels forced and 'thrashy'
As I say, these are my personal opinions and others will think different. Overall, both bikes are awesome machines and certainly the weather protection, luggage capacities etc are excellent. I believe the RT is the abbreviation for Reise-Tourer, or travel tourer and it certainly does what is says on the tin.
Great review as always Scott. As a ‘23 RT owner always happy to see content on it. Totally agree on all counts. And the app dropping sucks. Also, did you know the inductive charging DOES NOT work on iPhones 13 onwards due to placement of contact patch. BMW confirmed this. It’s as much Apple to blame but it makes the navigation even more frustrating. Compare that to the BMW cradle which I had on my GSA which is faultless (as no Wi-Fi, just Bluetooth with maps displayed on phone). 🤷 Best. G.
Yea, I've heard of that, Apple will be different just to be different from the rest of the market...sigh. But you can still charge it by USB in the compartment BUT that is a huge hassle if you have to plug, unplug every time 🙁🤦♂️ I did use the inductive charging on this trip with my Samsung S22, it was great, every time I got off the RT and grabbed my phone to use it, guess what, it was always at full charge, never had to worry about battery level. But smart phone navigation is always going to be dependent upon the smart phone, that IS the problem.
take care,
Scott
@@NothingToProve Indeed. And yes, thankfully there’s a USB connection, but try finding a short enough cable with a right angled connector. I couldn’t find one even on the ‘everything store’. Cramming in anything else is a challenge. Ah wait… BMW conveniently makes a cable for the CE 04 that would be suited. The price? A snip at €45. Go figure! Cheers. G.
Great video, looks like an incredible trip on an amazing motorcycle!
I love this review.
I'm in the market for a new (to me) bike, since a minor incident totalled my r1200GS. I don't have the budget for a recent model. Aiming for a 2017 model with low mileage.
I got the GS for its versatile ability. Living in NL however so only asphalt to be found. I was impressed with some footage of the gravel/sand footage in this video. That trip looks amazing. Do you have more videos of that trip??
Thank you! No, I have not made any other videos of that trip as of yet. Will start making trip videos, a series of 4 or 5, once the weather gets cold and I no longer have any more bikes to review.
take care,
Scott
P.S. Except for the one, where I was getting on the ferry, it got so little views that it discouraged me from making more.
@@NothingToProve looking forward to it :)
But I can imagine that editing is very time consuming.
Again a nice review. I own a R1250RT 2023 myself and I am also very happy about it. What mount did you use to mount the Garmin on your Handle bars? I am also considering to add a Garmin for the same reason you are..... Instable connection between motor and Smartphone....😞
Thanks, I've made videos of that stuff here:
th-cam.com/video/ZCowtdzw56c/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/MjZw_kBTdbU/w-d-xo.html
take care,
Scott
Great review, thank you.
Complimenti, bella moto e bel viaggio! Vorrei sapere se la tua RT ha avuto danni dopo aver percorso strade sterrate e guadato torrenti. Grazie e buona strada!
Thank you! Na, nothing, not even a scratch. 👍
Great torture test for the fantastic RT!
I’ve got a loaded ‘22 model with Road 6 GTs and it pulls slightly to the left at highway speeds. Have you noticed anything like that with your bike?
Thanks, ride safe and keep up the good work!
No, I have not noticed that at all. And I've put about 6k on them thus far, hoping for 10k😊
Great vid, thanks from Seattle.
Great discussion on the RT! Even though I have a K1600 GTL, I can appreciate the agility and fun the RT brings. It’s the only bike that I could swap my GTL for. I also use a Zumo XT after I ditched the Nav VI (it fits in the same slot with an adapter). The bike did great, but how did you do? What riding gear did you use and did it hold up in the weather?
I own a 1200 Rt (2009). I’ve rented a 1250 for rides in Spain & France. I prefer the 1200 over 1250. The 1200 seems much lighter. Both are excellent bikes.
Informative review. You mentioned your seat was heated. Is this seat from BMW or another manufacturer?
Heated front and rear seats as standard on the LE model 👍
Heated grips and seats from the factory, BMW.
Great review Scott. 👍
Can you do a comparison between the BMW K 1600 GTL and the BMW 1250 RT. Thanks.
If you’re cross shopping those two I hope you’ve also considered the S1000XR.
Didn't they just recently change/update the whole BMW connect to be just bluetooth? At least for the new 2024 models?
Oh no, it started so nice, and then... another bike review video 🤔😆. Any plans to make a great series about your 2 weeks 🏍🏍🏞 adventure? 🙃
Well, as you know, trip videos really don't get views on youtube any more. So I'm not in a hurry to spend days and days of editing for 5,000 views per video. But yes, I'll do them when I run out of bikes to ride this fall 👍😁
Great review❤
great review of looks like phenomenal machine, are we gonna see some video from that trip? Cheers V!
PS: My lovely wife told me that I am ready for next mid size adventure bike upgrade, when you will do review on new 900 GS, can't wait.....
LOL! Thank you. The trip videos never really get views, so to be honest I'm not motivated to spend 20 hours on editing each video and get 5k views & make 10 bucks, 50 cents an hour, does not make for a very convincing business case.
But with that said, probably this fall I will have time to sit down and do 3 or 4 episodes of the trip, I do have a lot of footage and Sardinia has some of the best roads I've ever been on in my entire life, so a couple of months 😊👌
take care,
Scott
A friend of mine says his Goldwing is his wife’s bike and he is just her driver. His GS is his 😂
Yea, my wife says the same thing about my RT 👍😊
Very interesting. thanks a lot.
Something wrong with your phone Sat Nav setup. Just finished a 2000 mile Euro tour, not one disconnect with my RT.
Well, if I asked 10 RT owners about this, only about 2 will say they have no issues with it, so I guess you are one of the two. 👍😁
That’s my experience too, no disconnects and I’ve just got back from 1500 mile Euro Tour….. @NothingToProve, I recommend you check your software version!
Hi Scott, thanks for another interesting video. I am also very happy with my 2022 BMW 1250 RT and it is excellent, no doubts about it, but anyway- I love the boxer engine, still have my GS for the summertime-, do you think that the BMW K1600 GTL would be an “up grade” from the RT, could it be seen as a trade to do, or beyond the more powerful and different motor, the increased weight of the bike, it could affect that consideration of all around bike, that in fact the RT also means for me? I wouldn’t mind to up grade, but would not be bearable to lose nothing with the trade besides money spent. Would like to know your opinion on that, as we have approximately the same height, age and body structure. Thank you for your kind reply 👌🏻
Thank you. Well, the K1600 is a full on touring bike and with that comes many things including weight (about +80kg) and a focus on comfort, premium ownership and ability to crunch miles on the highways for months at a time. The competition is the Gold Wing which is about the same weight as the K1600. I personally don't want the extra weight and I still have the same wind protection as the K1600 with the RT and the torque of the RT is lower in the RPMs than the K1600, so to me the RT wins with weight & torque and it's a tie with wind protection. Storage is the same, in fact the case are the same, they just change the color & some things to fit it better. but the internal bags that you get for the cases are the exact same ones. So if you do change to the K1600, keep your internal bags they will fit the K1600 the same way. Pushing my RT around in the garage and pulling it out every time for a ride, that weight is enough for me. When I did the K1600GT video last year, I had replaced it with my RT in the garage for a few days and I could really feel the weight difference every time moving the bike around in the driveway and in parking lots...etc. By the 3rd day I was looking forward to giving it back and getting my light RT back. Hmm...never thought I'd say the RT is light...LOL!
take care,
Scott
@@NothingToProvethank you Scott, for giving me your personal opinion as I take it into serious consideration once I am grateful for the work that you do on NOTHING TO PROVE TH-cam Channel.
and that’s what I thought. The weight of the bike plays an important role in the analysis and it changes the game…I was figuring that by myself but that’s an important confirmation until I do test the bike and I will give you my feedback when I got it done. Thanks again for your kind support ✌️✌️
This is my utility bike!
Absolute shame that the BMW superwide screen & connectivity of the navi sucks. A reason not to buy any BMW with these displays in general. I still hold on tight on the Nav V on my R1200GSA. Anything newer seems to have many issues, including the Nav VI. Will hold on to the current V until it falls apart. Perhaps by that time there will be something decent out.
I have the '23 RT and haven't had any connectivity issues at all. The same with the satellite radio reception that I hear had issues on earlier years. I have had none to speak of. Yes, the antenna is somewhat weak, so when in heavily wooded areas it will break up, but in the open it's great.
Just today I installed a Garmin Zumo XT2 on my R1200RT where the Navigator V is supposed to go. There’s a company in Italy, Adapter3DMotorrad, that made the Zumo look like a factory navigator. I recommend it!
Thanks for the videos, love them, you said you can do 12 hour days, I have the exact same bike and my backside dies after a couple of hours, how do you manage? Have you changed the seat?
Thank you. No, it's the standard seat, I have not changed anything. Sure after 12 hours I want to get off the bike but I've spent that amount of time on several other bikes and this is by far the most comfortable, when comparing to all the other bikes. Bikes like the Gold Wing or other full dresser/touring bikes might get a little more comfortable but they weight a lot more and cost a lot more too. So everything is relative 🤷♂️
take care,
Scott
I have the same bike and need to get off after a couple of hours @@NothingToProve
John Gibson, you might try something like a Wildass seat cushion.
Great review.
I agree with Michelin's claims of improved longevity with the Road 6 over Road 5- I'm on to a second set of Road 6 on my RT following on from Road 5 and Metzler Roadtec 01s; more than 10% improvement. As to improved grip- I reckon the average rider, like me, wouldn't notice any difference.
Yep agreed, grip on almost any modern sport touring tire is great. I had a max lean angle of 41° on this trip, that was enough for me and any modern tire can maintain that lean with no problems at all. At 44° the Wunderlich bars start to scrape the ground 🙁
I'm 6'2 250, is the k1600 still to big n heavy and go w the RT at my size or would u recommend the K1600??❤
Im curious what your setting were for this ride. Damping and Modes.
I use all modes to fit the conditions and my mood. Rain, road and dynamic.
I have owned an RT and a FJR. No contest! The RT e a t s it... 🙂
What mount are you using for the XT?
Don,t recall if i have asked this before but would you say the R1250RT have a sharper knee angle then the R1250GS? Or maybe just more "crouched" in the waist but knees are pretty much the same?
Cycle ergo has the answer for you.
Do you have a video on Shipping Logistics from US to Europe ? ( I assume you are an American )
I LOVE m’y R1200RT. Much better that my ST1100 and even the 1300. Big? Not as big as the 1600 but soooo maneuverable! You have the colour I would love. Mine is grey. And I do t know why they don’t just put apple carplay and android auto o. Then. At the price of these machines new it would not make a difference. Cheers
Riding Harley ultra here in Canada long trips heavy but comfortable, got 2017 gsa light and fun. The noise from front wheel is very irritating 😯. Rt may be better option in long run. 😎🏍️💨💨💨💨💨👍🏻🇨🇦🍻 from bc
Great review! I do love the RT! I would have one but I love my GSA just a little more!
I have a 2022 with 8,000 miles I am very disappointed with the Navigation and also not having back-lit switches...I will sell it and buy a KTM Super Duke GT it's the bike I wanted before I thought I was ready for a quiet/comfortable touring bike....Also, the handle bar vibration is very noticeable on the 1250 RT.
I had the Road 5 on when I bought my RS and I got 17 000km on the front and 21 000km on the rear. Well lets put it this way - 95% of the time I pull away in second gear - there is just so much torque in the 1250 shift cam that you easily out perform other bikes at the stop lights when you in second gear. I replaced it with the Road 6 GT (apparently there are 2 versions - one for the much heavier bikes and then one for the touring 250kg-300kg bikes) I've done 6000km on them and they are still looking very good. BUT - my next bike is definitely the RT. 2025 Jan/Feb - want to see what the 2024 RT will be. To be honest I hope its the 1300cc engine as the 1250cc bikes will become a must sell and the price drop will be in my favour. But thx for the review - this just confirmed me buying one. There is no deciding if you like or dont like a bike in one 20min test ride - all bikes these days are nice. But following the Nothing to Prove channel you start to get used to how you review and how you as a person relate to me as a person and rider. I think you ride your bikes a bit harder than I do but on a brisk day we are on par. I bought the RS after your long term review and you said you'd rather pick the 900xr - but that is just not for me. The nice thing of this review is the variety in all the riding you had in 2 weeks. I do long stints - Cape Town to Johannesburg (1500km) in one day on the GS and now the RS - RS is much more comfy for me. But now that the wife is riding along - I think the RT becomes a bigger player