Within the last week I purchased a 2021 RT and it is the absolute joy of my life I’ve had our TVs in the past but this one surpasses the ones that I’ve had I think everybody has done a wonderful wonderful job putting everything together for the pleasure of the writer thanks again
I have tried with an android phone. Everything works beautifully. My maps loads in about 30sec after I switch on the bike, automatically. I don't touch the phone....I can enter destinations from the screen or load a trip from my phone. media plays my spotify music beautifully and I also play radio from my phone, with full controls from the bike. I thinks a lot of folks are just finding it difficult to embrace new technology.
As per the BMW owner’s manual for the 2021 model, the #2 ‘favourite button’ on the left side will instantly connect you to your grips & (driver) seat heating. No need to press menu and scroll & search for heating. It’s faster than in the 2020 model. So that’s #1 of the things you don’t like off your list.
And as far as the likes and dislikes about the GPS, you ARE able to set new destinations on your TFT screen, and when suggesting we now get gloves with which we can use the phone, if you had your phone/GPS on your handlebar mount you would have the exact same issues, i.e., phone locking up or screen not working because of your glove. Same argument for both bikes. I guess that once you’re used to a certain way of doing things it is always a bit more of a learning curve. I went from a H-D to the 2021 RT and have no issues - yes, I’ll need to relearn some things, but that’s the same when I get a new car from different manufacturer. Cheers. Ride safe.
Thanks for your review. The new GPS arrangement is a deal-breaker for me. I have a 2015, with the Motorrad V GPS in the dedicated spot above the instrument panel. Requiring a phone connection to bring up the map or plug in a route is a big step backwards.
@@skippynj1979 I agree, the Motorrad GPS is not great, but it works as long as you have a GPS signal. My biggest concern with the new setup: what do you lose when you don't have a cell signal? Can you still see where you are, but lose guidance? Or can't you even see the map? Will it download the map and directions, so it will continue to work when you are out of cell range? But what if you want to program a route when you are not in cell range? I don't want to be dependent on GSP signal AND cell signal.
@@tedv82 you download the maps so it can run without service. I've been in the mountains of Pennsylvania with no service and haven't had any problems. Works very well with Android in my experience
@@aarondeere Thanks. I'm still concerned that you need to anticipate being out of cell service and download the maps and route while you still have a signal. I know that's true for Google maps on my mobile, but I like not having to worry about this with the GPS on previous RT's that doesn't depend on my phone.
You can set a new destination using the wonder wheel and the navigation menu screen on the TFT screen. Also, once you join the WiFi network it will automatically rejoin if you have that option set in your WiFi settings.
Thanks for the review. This is the only in-depth review about the new phone/GPS function (and its limitations) of the new RT, as well as other interesting comparison features, like the horn.
If you want to display maps on the TFT, your phone needs to be connected to the TFT all the time. However, you do not need to use phone data while you ride and you can navigate in areas where there is no signal. First, you will download the maps of the areas where you intend to ride to the BMW Connected app. Then you have to pair your phone with the TFT and connect the app to the TFT. I wish the navigation commands were a bit louder, especially while listening to music.
Porch Blanco I recently bought the 2021 model RT. I notice also that the Navi guidance through my communicators speakers is so low that once riding I can’t hear the guidance at all. I have my Sena volume set to the maximum. I thought it was a problem with the communicator. Bike, phone, communicator 🤷🏽♂️ so frustrating!
Thanks for the interesting video. I love the look of the front end of the new RT, and that screen is amazing. For the time being, though, I am more than happy with my late 2019 RT.
No mention of the dropping connectivity problems many riders are having or the continuing problem with exhaust flap failures on boxer engines that has been going on for a few years now? I was looking at the Yamaha FJR1300 but was told the RT had a more up to date dash. But after hearing the problems Highland Rider & others have been having I'm unsure which would be the best option.
Thank you for your review. How about that new horn. Fantastic! Still no “backlit handlebar switches” for night riding. Illuminated switches are so much easier to see. Why is this?
I own a ‘18 RT, and love it. I live in the US in the Southwest, many places I ride in UT, NV, and AZ have no cell service for hours at a time. So not sure how the BMW APP will do if you have no cell service for 3 hrs. Does that mean you lose your navigation mapping? And I agree, an RT without analog gauges looks weird to me...
Doing away with the external GPS is a huge step backwards for me. I just can't see how losing the ability to create multi-day routes and tours in Basecamp and have all the routes and waypoint information available at your fingertips in a dedicated nav unit is a step forward. Hopefully Wunderlich will come up with a neat mounting solution for Nav unit users by time I upgrade!
I like the new horn, front end and LED lights, and adaptive cruise control. I like the analog gauges and think they should've incorporated that as a switchable option on the digital dash. You shouldnt have to connect your phone to use maps on the GPS navigation. I wish they would've included blind spot detection.
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I own a BMW Motorcycle. I sat on the K1600 and RT models the other day. However, I didn't ridden any yet. I thought that there were sitting positions that were similar to each other as a feeling to me. I heard RT is more agile. The K1600 has a larger displacement engine block. what are the main differences between this two? Thanks
I also appreciate your insightful report on the differences between the old and new generations of rt. I too prefer analogue displays, on a bike like this are the revs that critical? Just a question though, most people i know have their phones in a wallet with credit cards etc, apparantly they will not fot in the allocated space. Could that not have been made larger?
After I bought my 2015 RT, I thought that would be my last bike. I questioned my sanity while driving my 2015 over to the dealership to trade up to the 2019 RT, which at the time thought that would be my last RT. Well yesterday I ordered a 2022 RT1250. Now I hear that a 1300m model is on the horizon?? 🧐
You are very generous to BMW. The san Nav arrangement is absolutely useless. As for the high tech headlight, not as good as my 2005 model. A bike that has been introduced six months before it’s ready for the market.
Thank you for the well explained review. I am considering a new RT. My current bike is an old 2002 RT model. While I'm still very happy with it I'd love to get that 1250 motor and a bit of an update. I didn't like the big front end of the newer RTs but I do like the 2021 fairing. That said I see there are issues with the TFT display and user interface. Those menu navigation issues are serious enough to delay my decision to get a new bike. BMW are usually quite thoughtful about their designs so to see such a clumsy UI is surprising and disappointing.
hi from South Africa 🇿🇦. thank you for your very insightful thoughts on the new RT. Can I ask what phone you are using for the connected app? android or Apple? and what app are using for media? thank you kindly 🙏
Merci for review! Like for it. From my point of view, face (headlights) of the new RT is more Japanes =), previous one looks more solid! Also, digital display on previous model, you can adjust an angle a bit (depend on your height and sunlight reflection), but you can't do it with new display (it's fixed position).
No data needed. You can download maps to internal storage of the mobile phone. You need to be online if you need current traffic. In other words for navigation you need phone with GPS and downloaded free BMW maps on it .
@@pawelnorbert Okay, that certainly makes it workable for me. Thanks for that information! I plan on logging many more kilometers on my 2018 RT so won't need a replacement for a while. Cheers!
Another good feature is the option of handlebar mirrors. On my 2016 RT I had to order custom brackets from Wunderlich. The original fairing mirrors are plain dangerous in my opinion.
Fantastic command of English. You didn’t mention riding position on ‘21, seems to be semi-sport by all accounts? Personally I thought the R1150RT to have the most appealing front end design, later models look aggressive with the appearance of a demented insect. I’m old!
Great review! Personally I don’t really like the look of the new headlight/fairing design. The old bike looked classier in my opinion. The TFT is too big and gadgets like that cooling fan for your phone and wireless charging are just another thing to fail and annoy you as you bring the bike back to the shop. Regarding Nav, well I’m a paper map man. You plan the route, know that route before riding and are more ‘eyes up’ while riding. That TFT is so full of info, I fear many riders will be looking at it instead of the road. Other than that, a great bike. Looking to upgrade my 2011 soon. Thanks for the review!
You just talked me out of the 2021. GPS is ridiculous. I’ll keep my 2008. Much simpler, great ride, 1/4 the cost. 👍 If I need directions I’ll ask somebody or use…God forbid…a map.
Unfortunately I have double checked and it is set to auto. I suppose the iPhone wants you to confirm that it will be connected to a network that has no internet access. if an iPhone expert is around please let us know !
@@MotoPlaisirLocation I use an iPhone SE (older model) and I only had to connect the phone to the TFT once. When I place the phone in its cubicle the app automatically connects with the TFT (takes a fairly long time, though). Since my old iPhone SE does not support induction charging, I bought a very short Lightning cable which I plug into the USB port. Before doing this, I could not hear navigation instructions nor music from my phone but after using the Lightning cable, now these, too, work OK. My motorcycle dealer uses iPhone XR and it does need any cables to do all of the above. Still, the Lightning cable costs approx. €6.00 vs the €500,00 for a new phone. Nice review, by the way. Thanks.
@@porcobianco The phone is connected through bluetooth with no issue. The wifi connection to the bike to display the map requires a clic on the confirmation box on my phone. Not on yours ? Another possible explanation for this issue : as the phone is already connected to a wifi network (which is the case in our shop or if the wifi reaches your garage) , it asks you if you really want to connect to the bike's network.
I am not a fan of the TFT ~ would prefer keeping the Dials and finding another way to integrate navigation maps. IMHO its looks like a computer Tablet held in place by Velco pieces. I don't believe Ducati would ever be so clumsy in their design.
@@MotoPlaisirLocation Hmmm . . . . . not much different at all! I had expected more design flair . . . . maybe they will make something more stylish in 3 ~ 5 years :(
Gawd toooooo much useless electronics that screen just sucks Keep it simple Jimmy It seems like Bmw makes bikes like their cars exciting junk until you have a problem
The problem with ALL BMW bikes is the maintaining of the bikes. Either way, if you buy it new at full price and get ripped off or buy it used and pay through the nose for repairs. Either way all of BMW’s bike are very costly to own. Just buy Japanese bikes, cheaper maintenance costs and they just work, without all the BS.
Within the last week I purchased a 2021 RT and it is the absolute joy of my life I’ve had our TVs in the past but this one surpasses the ones that I’ve had I think everybody has done a wonderful wonderful job putting everything together for the pleasure of the writer thanks again
I have tried with an android phone. Everything works beautifully. My maps loads in about 30sec after I switch on the bike, automatically. I don't touch the phone....I can enter destinations from the screen or load a trip from my phone. media plays my spotify music beautifully and I also play radio from my phone, with full controls from the bike.
I thinks a lot of folks are just finding it difficult to embrace new technology.
As per the BMW owner’s manual for the 2021 model, the #2 ‘favourite button’ on the left side will instantly connect you to your grips & (driver) seat heating. No need to press menu and scroll & search for heating. It’s faster than in the 2020 model. So that’s #1 of the things you don’t like off your list.
And as far as the likes and dislikes about the GPS, you ARE able to set new destinations on your TFT screen, and when suggesting we now get gloves with which we can use the phone, if you had your phone/GPS on your handlebar mount you would have the exact same issues, i.e., phone locking up or screen not working because of your glove. Same argument for both bikes. I guess that once you’re used to a certain way of doing things it is always a bit more of a learning curve. I went from a H-D to the 2021 RT and have no issues - yes, I’ll need to relearn some things, but that’s the same when I get a new car from different manufacturer. Cheers. Ride safe.
I am glad you enjoy your new bike !
Thanks for your review. The new GPS arrangement is a deal-breaker for me. I have a 2015, with the Motorrad V GPS in the dedicated spot above the instrument panel. Requiring a phone connection to bring up the map or plug in a route is a big step backwards.
I really don't like the old garmin systems... the integration with the phone is very nice
@@skippynj1979 I agree, the Motorrad GPS is not great, but it works as long as you have a GPS signal. My biggest concern with the new setup: what do you lose when you don't have a cell signal? Can you still see where you are, but lose guidance? Or can't you even see the map? Will it download the map and directions, so it will continue to work when you are out of cell range? But what if you want to program a route when you are not in cell range? I don't want to be dependent on GSP signal AND cell signal.
I use Waze from the phone. Much much better.
@@tedv82 you download the maps so it can run without service. I've been in the mountains of Pennsylvania with no service and haven't had any problems. Works very well with Android in my experience
@@aarondeere Thanks. I'm still concerned that you need to anticipate being out of cell service and download the maps and route while you still have a signal. I know that's true for Google maps on my mobile, but I like not having to worry about this with the GPS on previous RT's that doesn't depend on my phone.
You can set a new destination using the wonder wheel and the navigation menu screen on the TFT screen. Also, once you join the WiFi network it will automatically rejoin if you have that option set in your WiFi settings.
I appreciated your insightful report on the differences between the old and new generations of rt. Thanks
You are welcome !
Thanks for the review. This is the only in-depth review about the new phone/GPS function (and its limitations) of the new RT, as well as other interesting comparison features, like the horn.
Good Video, lots of good info. So to use the Navigation on the new bike you have to have your phone connected all the time?
If you want to display maps on the TFT, your phone needs to be connected to the TFT all the time. However, you do not need to use phone data while you ride and you can navigate in areas where there is no signal. First, you will download the maps of the areas where you intend to ride to the BMW Connected app. Then you have to pair your phone with the TFT and connect the app to the TFT. I wish the navigation commands were a bit louder, especially while listening to music.
Porch Blanco I recently bought the 2021 model RT. I notice also that the Navi guidance through my communicators speakers is so low that once riding I can’t hear the guidance at all. I have my Sena volume set to the maximum. I thought it was a problem with the communicator. Bike, phone, communicator 🤷🏽♂️ so frustrating!
Thanks for the interesting video. I love the look of the front end of the new RT, and that screen is amazing. For the time being, though, I am more than happy with my late 2019 RT.
Very insightful and helpful.
I prefer the new horn. I have changed many bikes and even a few older Japanese cars to this type/sound.
Absolutely agree 100%.
No mention of the dropping connectivity problems many riders are having or the continuing problem with exhaust flap failures on boxer engines that has been going on for a few years now?
I was looking at the Yamaha FJR1300 but was told the RT had a more up to date dash. But after hearing the problems Highland Rider & others have been having I'm unsure which would be the best option.
Thank you for your review. How about that new horn. Fantastic! Still no “backlit handlebar switches” for night riding. Illuminated switches are so much easier to see. Why is this?
I own a ‘18 RT, and love it. I live in the US in the Southwest, many places I ride in UT, NV, and AZ have no cell service for hours at a time. So not sure how the BMW APP will do if you have no cell service for 3 hrs. Does that mean you lose your navigation mapping? And I agree, an RT without analog gauges looks weird to me...
You have to download the map data before you go. So you do not need cellular network during the ride.
Always like your reviews. Best regards from Malta 🇲🇹
Doing away with the external GPS is a huge step backwards for me. I just can't see how losing the ability to create multi-day routes and tours in Basecamp and have all the routes and waypoint information available at your fingertips in a dedicated nav unit is a step forward. Hopefully Wunderlich will come up with a neat mounting solution for Nav unit users by time I upgrade!
How do you switch between full screen map to split screen and back to full map ?
I like the new horn, front end and LED lights, and adaptive cruise control. I like the analog gauges and think they should've incorporated that as a switchable option on the digital dash. You shouldnt have to connect your phone to use maps on the GPS navigation. I wish they would've included blind spot detection.
I own a BMW Motorcycle. I sat on the K1600 and RT models the other day. However, I didn't ridden any yet. I thought that there were sitting positions that were similar to each other as a feeling to me. I heard RT is more agile. The K1600 has a larger displacement engine block. what are the main differences between this two? Thanks
Stay tuned new video coming soon for this topic
Some very valid points
I sold my 2016 rt this season... miss it everyday..
I also appreciate your insightful report on the differences between the old and new generations of rt. I too prefer analogue displays, on a bike like this are the revs that critical? Just a question though, most people i know have their phones in a wallet with credit cards etc, apparantly they will not fot in the allocated space. Could that not have been made larger?
After I bought my 2015 RT, I thought that would be my last bike. I questioned my sanity while driving my 2015 over to the dealership to trade up to the 2019 RT, which at the time thought that would be my last RT. Well yesterday I ordered a 2022 RT1250. Now I hear that a 1300m model is on the horizon?? 🧐
You are very generous to BMW. The san Nav arrangement is absolutely useless. As for the high tech headlight, not as good as my 2005 model. A bike that has been introduced six months before it’s ready for the market.
"six months before it’s ready for the market" . . . . . that is probably a very canny comment IMHO.
Thank you for the well explained review. I am considering a new RT. My current bike is an old 2002 RT model. While I'm still very happy with it I'd love to get that 1250 motor and a bit of an update. I didn't like the big front end of the newer RTs but I do like the 2021 fairing. That said I see there are issues with the TFT display and user interface. Those menu navigation issues are serious enough to delay my decision to get a new bike. BMW are usually quite thoughtful about their designs so to see such a clumsy UI is surprising and disappointing.
Great review!
hi from South Africa 🇿🇦. thank you for your very insightful thoughts on the new RT. Can I ask what phone you are using for the connected app? android or Apple? and what app are using for media? thank you kindly 🙏
The phone used is by Apple, I have read in some comments the Android do not work... Try before you buy !
@@MotoPlaisirLocation thank you sir....will definitely do homework
Merci for review! Like for it.
From my point of view, face (headlights) of the new RT is more Japanes =), previous one looks more solid!
Also, digital display on previous model, you can adjust an angle a bit (depend on your height and sunlight reflection), but you can't do it with new display (it's fixed position).
But you need a phone with data in order to use the BMW app and GPS. A stand alone GPS has no monthly fees. A poor change in design.
You are right, I forgot to mention the essential !
No data needed. You can download maps to internal storage of the mobile phone. You need to be online if you need current traffic. In other words for navigation you need phone with GPS and downloaded free BMW maps on it .
@@pawelnorbert Okay, that certainly makes it workable for me. Thanks for that information! I plan on logging many more kilometers on my 2018 RT so won't need a replacement for a while. Cheers!
Another good feature is the option of handlebar mirrors. On my 2016 RT I had to order custom brackets from Wunderlich. The original fairing mirrors are plain dangerous in my opinion.
Fantastic command of English. You didn’t mention riding position on ‘21, seems to be semi-sport by all accounts? Personally I thought the R1150RT to have the most appealing front end design, later models look aggressive with the appearance of a demented insect. I’m old!
Thanks a lot ! To me, the riding position is the exact same as the previous generation.
@@MotoPlaisirLocation I’m over 6’2” bit cramped on long days across Europe, GS riding position suits the taller rider.
Great review!
Personally I don’t really like the look of the new headlight/fairing design. The old bike looked classier in my opinion.
The TFT is too big and gadgets like that cooling fan for your phone and wireless charging are just another thing to fail and annoy you as you bring the bike back to the shop.
Regarding Nav, well I’m a paper map man. You plan the route, know that route before riding and are more ‘eyes up’ while riding. That TFT is so full of info, I fear many riders will be looking at it instead of the road.
Other than that, a great bike. Looking to upgrade my 2011 soon. Thanks for the review!
Great review.
the screen need to be touch screen
Yes! BMW finally got rid of that ugly 1980s antenna. 🤣
You just talked me out of the 2021. GPS is ridiculous. I’ll keep my 2008. Much simpler, great ride, 1/4 the cost. 👍 If I need directions I’ll ask somebody or use…God forbid…a map.
Use auto connection for WiFi. There is no need to co confirm connectiin each time. You have it configured wrong.
Unfortunately I have double checked and it is set to auto. I suppose the iPhone wants you to confirm that it will be connected to a network that has no internet access. if an iPhone expert is around please let us know !
@@MotoPlaisirLocation sorry l am Android guy, won't help here.
@@MotoPlaisirLocation I use an iPhone SE (older model) and I only had to connect the phone to the TFT once. When I place the phone in its cubicle the app automatically connects with the TFT (takes a fairly long time, though). Since my old iPhone SE does not support induction charging, I bought a very short Lightning cable which I plug into the USB port. Before doing this, I could not hear navigation instructions nor music from my phone but after using the Lightning cable, now these, too, work OK. My motorcycle dealer uses iPhone XR and it does need any cables to do all of the above. Still, the Lightning cable costs approx. €6.00 vs the €500,00 for a new phone.
Nice review, by the way. Thanks.
@@porcobianco The phone is connected through bluetooth with no issue. The wifi connection to the bike to display the map requires a clic on the confirmation box on my phone. Not on yours ? Another possible explanation for this issue : as the phone is already connected to a wifi network (which is the case in our shop or if the wifi reaches your garage) , it asks you if you really want to connect to the bike's network.
Merci Monsieur Macron, tres bien
I am not a fan of the TFT ~ would prefer keeping the Dials and finding another way to integrate navigation maps. IMHO its looks like a computer Tablet held in place by Velco pieces. I don't believe Ducati would ever be so clumsy in their design.
Have you seen the new Multistrada V4 ? The dashboard of modern high tech motorcycles look very similar...
th-cam.com/video/G9mB6zBmajU/w-d-xo.html
@@MotoPlaisirLocation Hmmm . . . . . not much different at all! I had expected more design flair . . . . maybe they will make something more stylish in 3 ~ 5 years :(
Gawd toooooo much useless electronics that screen just sucks
Keep it simple Jimmy
It seems like Bmw makes bikes like their cars exciting junk until you have a problem
The problem with ALL BMW bikes is the maintaining of the bikes. Either way, if you buy it new at full price and get ripped off or buy it used and pay through the nose for repairs. Either way all of BMW’s bike are very costly to own. Just buy Japanese bikes, cheaper maintenance costs and they just work, without all the BS.
Manque le lecteurs cd
Make touring boring - get a BMW