Updates for the 2023 BMW R 1250 RS
BMW’s RS model has been with us for more than 40 years, shaping the brand’s sport-touring heritage. It provides a comfortable mount that performs with equal aplomb as a distance-touring bike and sporting machine.
For 2023, BMW is releasing a slew of updates for the R 1250 RS. Powered by the stalwart Boxer twin, the 1254cc air/liquid-cooled platform is now emboldened with Shiftcam technology.
While adhering to current EU5 emissions, it now produces a very usable 136 ponies and 105 lb-ft of torque, imbuing the machine with impressive drive whether riding alone or with a passenger and luggage. The Shiftcam, which varies valve timing as revs increase, provides smooth, quiet power delivery.
Meanwhile the new Eco mode engine mapping—joining the standard Rain and Road modes—provides enhanced fuel economy and lower emissions through a softer throttle mapping that limits engine torque. The Eco setting can be easily and swiftly shifted over to a different ride modes on the fly with a flick of a switch. In Eco mode, the upper part of the TFT screen displays engine and fuel efficiency.
The list of equipment standard for the 2023 RS is impressive, including dynamic traction control, partially integral ABS Pro, and dynamic brake control. New LED turn signals and headlight are standard, as is the TFT color display with full connectivity.
The display boasts an on-board 12-volt power socket and a new USB-A port with a five-volt power supply, allowing smartphone charging while riding with a cable adapter. The TFT color screen uses arrow navigation with easily-readable visuals while the Sport Core Screen gives real-time information on lean angle and the degree of intervention being exerted by the ABS Pro system and traction control.
Ergonomically, the 2023 R 1250 RS offers the option of a traditional top triple clamp with a tubular handlebar. The rider can personalize the fit by moving the handlebar forward or backward.
The optional tubular bars are slightly wider with less sweep, granting added leverage for increased maneuverability. Optional low and high seats allow for a customized, tailored fit based on rider preference and stature.
The rest of the standard equipment list includes an anti-hop clutch, a steering stabilizer, an adjustable windscreen, hill start, and cast aluminum wheels. BMW also offers a dynamic range of packages to enhance the sport tourer, including the Premium Package, which adds keyless riding, design options for the muffler, chrome-plated exhaust manifold, dynamic engine brake control, gear shift assist, the Pro ride mode, heated grips, a centerstand, cruise control, bag mounts, and tire pressure monitoring.
A host of individual options to tailor the RS to personal preferences include a solo seat cover, an engine spoiler, stylish 719 spoke wheels, and heated rider and passenger seats. Unchanged for 2023 is the MSRP of $15,695.
Colors and Trim
The new standard Light White non-metallic paint scheme with a black frame accentuates the sporting nature of the RS. The Style Sport model is available in Light White non-metallic, Racing Blue metallic and Racing Red, which are augmented by gold calipers front and back, front spoiler, and solo seat.
The Style Triple Black version is rendered in Black Storm metallic with Agate Gray frame, accented with gold calipers and a stainless steel engine spoiler. The new solo seat option plays to the RS’s sporting nature, with a paint-matched cover over the passenger seat, while the passenger footrests and grab handles are removed for a slimmer, sleeker profile.
To customize the RS, BMW offers a range of dynamic aesthetic combinations under their 719 series of optional parts and accessories. These include milled anodized cylinder head covers, front engine cover and oil filler plug in silver, silver-gray, or black, as well as anodized mirrors and expansion tank covers in various colors.
The new R 1250 RS is expected to be in showrooms stateside in spring 2023.