BMW unveils 2019 R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT ahead of global debut

BMW Motorrad has unveiled the 2019 R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT models. The R 1250 GS is the adventure focused of the two while the R 1250 RT is geared towards touring. The two motorcycles are powered by flat-twin boxer engines. However, the engine capacity has gone up to 1254cc, up from the 1170cc of the current generation due a 1.5mm larger bore and a stroke that is longer by 3mm. The company has also introduced its ShiftCam technology (variable timing for the intake valves). The addition of the ShiftCam, BMW claims, has made the bikes smoother at idle and has given them a wide spread of torque across the rev range. Power output has gone up to 136bhp, an increase of 11bhp over the current generation and torque has gone up by 18Nm to 143Nm. The R 1250s will replace the current R 1200s when launched.

There is now oil jet cooling for the piston undersides, new fuel injectors, as well as a gearbox design with an updated slipper clutch. The two motorcycles receive a new 6.5-inch full-colour TFT display and a new digital engine management system.

A number of rider aids including Hill Start and ASC stability control are standard. The 2019 BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT will also feature semi-active electronic suspension with automatic load compensation. An optional sports suspension package for the GS is also available, with higher spring rates and longer struts for increased suspension travel. There is also the option of Riding modes Pro, featuring additional riding modes, dynamic traction control DTC, ABS Pro, Hill start control Pro and Dynamic Brake Assistant DBC.

You also get LED headlamp for the R 1250 GS as standard and LED daytime riding light for both models as an optional extra.

The motorcycles are expected to be available internationally by the end of this year. As for India, we expect the bikes to be here only next year.

Words by Afzal Rawuther