2025 BMW R 1300 R unveiled: gets more power, new underpinnings and more standard features

BMW Motorrad has taken the wraps off the R 1300 R, an updated version of the boxer-engined roadster. The new model gets more power, courtesy a new power plant borrowed straight from the R 1300 GS, a revised chassis, a more aggressive design and promises to be sportier than before. Here’s more on the newest BMW Motorrad bike.

BMW R 1300 R design and ergonomics

Visually, the R 1300 R has a more minimalist look than its predecessor. The new LED matrix headlamp and cleaner body lines make it appear sharper. The riding position is sportier than before — flatter handlebars and rear-set footrests. While the ergonomics lean more towards performance, BMW hasn’t forgotten comfort. Adjustable bars and multiple seat options mean it should still be a decent touring machine. The R 1300 R will come in four trim options: Base in a Snapper Rocks Blue shade, Exclusive dressed in Racing Blue metallic, Sport in Lightwhite Uni and the top-spec Option 719 Kilauea in a sick Blackstorm Metallic. The two higher trims get adjustable footrests, sportier levers, optional quickshifter, and stickier tires.

BMW R 1300 R engine, chassis and features

The headline change is the engine. The 1300cc twin-cylinder boxer, borrowed from the R 1300 GS, makes 143bhp at 7750rpm and 149Nm of torque at 6500rpm. It’s the most powerful boxer-twin BMW has ever put in a roadster. The bike is also 12kg lighter than before, now weighing 237kg with all fluids and a full tank. That’s thanks in part to a new sheet-metal main frame. The rear subframe is a cast aluminium unit. On the suspension front, the R 1300 R gets a 47mm upside-down front fork and a revised Paralever EVO unit at the rear. The system can be opted with electronic damping, an optional extra, with the Dynamic ESA system. The braking setup features twin 320mm discs with two radially mounted four-piston fixed callipers at the front and a single disc with a two-piston floating calliper at the rear. The bike gets 17-inch aluminium cast wheels with hollow spokes which are 1.4lg lighter than before.

Standard rider aids include cornering ABS, engine drag control, and Rain, Road and Eco ride modes standard. Dynamic and Dynamic Pro ride modes available as a part of the Riding Modes Pro pack. BMW is also offering its Automated Shift Assistant tech, which is basically an automated clutch as an option. Other optional kit includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and seat heating.