Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds. Test ride of the new BMW R1300R, the fastest boxer that’s so much fun to ride.

A next-generation roadster that maximizes dynamism and comfort

“We’ve thoroughly improved the riding performance while maintaining the touring capabilities and comfort,” said BMW’s development manager at the beginning of the test ride. As such, the new R1300R’s attention to detail is unmistakable. The chassis boasts the most powerful water-cooled boxer engine in the R series’ history, boasting 145 horsepower, mounted in a newly designed, compact steel frame with the engine itself as a rigid member. Furthermore, updates to the suspension, such as a new inverted fork and an evolved EVO Paralever, have significantly improved cornering performance.

Another highlight is the world’s first electronically controlled suspension, the Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA), which incorporates a variable spring rate mechanism. This amazing system senses load changes and road conditions while riding, automatically adjusting not only the damping force but also the spring rate. This allows the suspension to be used effectively in a wider range of situations than ever before, from touring to sporty riding.

In addition to the three standard riding modes (Road, Rain, and Eco), the optional Riding Mode PRO offers even more aggressive settings. All models are also equipped as standard with front and rear linked ABS for cornering and MSR, which controls engine braking, further enhancing the sense of security.

Optional features include the Automatic Shift Assistant (ASA), which allows automatic shifting without a clutch, which was also a hot topic on the R1300GSA, Active Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically tracks and decelerates, and front and rear collision warnings, ensuring that comfort and safety equipment are top notch. Furthermore, a newly designed luggage system and heated seats are also available, making it a versatile vehicle that can also be used for motorcycle trips, which is typical of BMW.

Enjoy the supercar-like acceleration

In stark contrast to the previous model’s rounded, generous design, the new model’s sharp, edgy form resembles a stealth fighter jet, leaving an impression. While the tank juts out on both sides, the body is slim and easy to reach when straddling. The handlebars are set slightly low and forward, giving the impression that both the appearance and riding position are geared toward performance.

The test vehicle was the sportiest of the four models, the “Performance” model. With lightweight wheels, sports tires, and special suspension, it’s clear that this is a truly serious bike. The engine is a water-cooled boxer twin, shared with the R1300GS and RT, characterized by a smooth pulsation, a low, growling sound, and solid torque. In standard mode, it’s very gentle and easy to handle. However, the moment you switch to the optional “Dynamic PRO” mode, the bike explodes with acceleration that will leave you behind. Twist the throttle and the bike takes off like a rocket, before the engine even starts to rev. By the way, the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is just 3.25 seconds, which is on par with a supercar. Perhaps because the exhaust noise is subdued and the body is stable, it doesn’t feel very fast, but when you look at the meter, it feels much faster than it actually feels.

DSA creates a new level of cornering sensation

It’s surprisingly nimble on winding roads. The stable feel of the low center of gravity unique to the boxer twin-cylinder and shaft drivetrain, along with the sense of banking with a smooth, effortless roll, are still there. The car’s light footwork is so light you forget the cylinders on both sides, and the way it rhythmically turns around winding mountain roads feels like it’s dancing on the asphalt.

What impressed me most was the world’s first electronically controlled suspension, “DSA,” featuring “variable spring rate.” This “strong leg” changes character dramatically depending on the driving mode. In particular, “Dynamic PRO” mode subtly raises the vehicle height, providing firm support at deep suspension strokes. This dramatically improves stability even when dealing with sudden bumps or high-load situations like high-speed corners. Furthermore, electronic controls such as front and rear linked brakes and cornering-compatible ABS and traction control provide an unparalleled sense of security. Incidentally, returning to standard mode transforms the ride into a smooth, supple feel, making city driving truly comfortable. The seat is low and the center of gravity is low, so stopping and going was stress-free.

During the test ride, I rode nearly 200km in total, and in a sense, being able to leave more things to the bike made it easier to ride, and I realized that even when riding hard, I felt mentally relaxed and less tired, which is actually a major advantage. BMW’s philosophy of combining sharp riding performance with everyday use was once again brilliantly alive. It’s not just fast. The R1300R’s appeal lies in its depth, allowing you to enjoy a sporty mindset while ensuring peace of mind and safety.

Its distinctive features include nimble and stable handling, thanks to the flat-twin’s low center of gravity and light lean. The powerful suspension, supported by the newly introduced DSA, delivers a sportier ride than you’d expect. It’s the R-series’ best cornering machine.

It features a sharp wedge-shaped body line with a low front and a high tail, and features an air duct on the outside of the protruding tank, creating a design that visualizes air flow.

Foot reach (rider height 179cm, weight 73kg)

The handlebar position is set slightly lower and forward compared to the previous model, resulting in a sportier riding position with the upper body leaning forward. The seat height is 785mm, 35mm lower than the previous model, and the significant improvement in foot reach is a major attraction.

Detailed explanation

It is equipped with a water-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed, twin-cylinder, DOHC, four-valve, 1300cc engine that produces a maximum output of 145ps/7750rpm and a maximum torque of 149N・m/6500rpm. The specifications are the same as those of the R1300RT and R1300GS. When viewed from the front, the left and right cylinders protrude significantly, creating an impressive effect.

The drivetrain follows the traditional shaft drive of the R series, and the latest EVO Telelever suspension is used. The single-arm swingarm is longer than before, further improving road-holding performance.

The octagonal design DRL integrated full LED headlight is standard equipment. The optional “Headlight PRO” adds an adaptive function that automatically adjusts the illumination angle according to the running speed and bank angle. The headlight is equipped with a radar sensor that supports various assist functions.

The “Performance” model comes with luxurious bar-end mirrors that combine a sporty look with a sophisticated atmosphere, while the basic model comes with conventional handlebar-mounted mirrors.

The fuel tank capacity is 17L, allowing a range of approximately 350km in WMTC mode. A unique material like hard sponge is used in the center of the tank, and the visual design that makes it appear as if the tank, seat, and even the tail end are one is impressive.

The “Performance” model comes with a special sports seat. The standard seat height is 790mm, which is 30mm lower than the previous R1250R, significantly improving foot reach. The model in the photo features a sports passenger seat with a striking red accent line and brand logo.

The front brakes are equipped with dual φ320mm discs and 4-piston radial mount calipers. The fully integrated braking system with cornering ABS ensures excellent safety. The tire sizes are 120/70-17 in the front and 190/55ZR17 in the rear.

The car is fitted with new aluminum wheels that are over 1.4 kg lighter than the previous model, resulting in significantly improved braking power and handling. Dunlop’s SPORTSMART tires are standard, suitable for a wide range of uses, from public roads to circuits.

The “Performance” model is equipped with a billet footpeg kit that is precision-machined. The position of the bars and pegs is adjustable, allowing you to customize the setup to your liking.

The 6.5-inch full-color TFT display, which is also familiar from the R1300GS, is equipped as standard. Using the switch on the left hand and the multi-controller, you can intuitively access various settings such as ride mode switching and DSA, vehicle information and connectivity functions.

The left-hand switch box has the same design as the new R series, so once you get used to it, you should be able to operate it quickly on both the RT and GS. If it’s an ASA model, a manual/automatic switch will be added.

Main specifications

Body size: Length x Width x Height = 2126 x 864 x – mm

Wheelbase: 1503 mm

Seat height: 785 / 810 mm

Vehicle weight: 239 kg

Engine: 1300cc water-cooled 4-stroke horizontally opposed 2-cylinder DOHC 4 valves (per cylinder)

Transmission: Shaft drive/6-speed AT

Maximum output: 145PS (107kW) / 7750rpm

Maximum torque: 149N・m (15.2kgf・m) / 6500rpm

Fuel tank capacity: 17L

Frame: Steel sheet metal (main) / Aluminum truss (sub)

Suspension (travel): Inverted fork (140mm) / EVO Paralever (130mm)

Brakes:

　Front φ320mm double disc + 4P radial mount caliper

　Rear φ285 mm, single disc + 2P floating caliper (lean angle compatible full integral ABS)

Tires: Front 120/70 ZR17, rear 190/55 ZR17 (Dunlop “Sportsmart”)

Fuel economy: 4.81 liters/100 km (approximately 20.8 km/liter, WMTC mode)

Price: To be determined