BMW Australia has rolled out its new R 1300 range, and we’ve put all three variants through their paces on Australian roads to see how the acclaimed Shift Cam boxer twin translates across different riding styles.
The range kicks off with the R 1300 R roadster, a surprisingly well-equipped machine despite its stripped-back positioning. It demands a unique riding style: point, barrel towards the apex, and let the boxer twin’s low centre of gravity steer you through on the rear wheel. It’s a particular technique that rewards committed riders. The R 1300 R starts at $24,695 rideaway.
Step up to the R 1300 RS sports tourer, and you’ll find what might be BMW’s most refined package. Where the previous R 1250 RS was brilliant but polarising in appearance, the new model delivers the same exceptional handling characteristics wrapped in far sleeker bodywork.
Starting at $23,190 and climbing to $34,100 for the fully-loaded Option 719 variant with sports suspension and stickier rubber, it’s a gentleman’s express that absolutely nails the sports touring brief.
But the star of the show is the 281-kilogram R 1300 RT luxury tourer. Despite its substantial mass, it proved surprisingly nimble on mountain roads, keeping pace with the lighter RS. The RT comes loaded with BMW’s Automatic Shift Assistant (ASA) clutchless system, four powerful speakers that actually work at speed, heated everything for the passenger, and a screen large enough to rival a small television.
The RT starts at $39,990 in base guise, joined by the Triple Black ($40,690), Impulse ($40,940) and Option 719 ($44,990). Every box is ticked, every comfort considered – it’s the full BMW experience delivered in spades.
Snag’s career in motoring journalism spans 30 years with stints at major bike mags Australian Road Rider, Motorcycle Trader and AMCN along with contributions to just about every other outlet worth a hill of beans. He was editor of Unique Cars magazine and hosts his legendary podcast ‘Snag Says’ when he gets off his date.
