BMW Motorrad USA is proud to announce the new, sportier and more aggressive 2026 BMW R 1300 R. The big boxer roadster returns with more power, more torque, more style, new technology and new options that allow each rider to tailor the extremely well balanced R 1300 R to their specific desires and needs.

The low center of gravity and prodigious torque from the BMW boxer motor makes the new roadster an equally excellent companion for commuting, sport riding and touring.

“With the new BMW R 1300 R, we’ve taken our dynamic roadster with boxer engine to a whole new level. Focused uncompromisingly on riding dynamics, it delivers a far sportier experience than its predecessor thanks to a completely redesigned engine and chassis, while still retaining core BMW values such as touring capability and comfort.”

Christof Lischka, Head of Development BMW Motorrad

BMW R 1300 R FEATURES

New 1,300 cc liquid-cooled boxer motor delivers 145 hp and 110 lb-ft of torque.

New steel frame with aluminum rear section.

New upside-down 47 mm front fork and revised EVO Paralever II rear suspension.

New lighter wheels (combined -3.0 lbs.).

New DSA Dynamic Suspension Adjustment with a first for production motorcycle upside down forks – an adjustable front spring rate.

New prop-up aid feature (part of DSA) for the optional center stand.

New Riding Assistant with Active Cruise Control and Frontal Collision Warning.

New Optional GPS Prep with electronic lock.

Standard Riding Modes – RAIN, ROAD and ECO.

Standard MSR Engine Drag Torque Control.

Standard BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro.

Standard Full LED Lighting. Headlight Pro Optional.

Four Styles / Colors.

DESIGN

“The new BMW R 1300 R has been defined to be much sportier than its predecessor. Not only in terms of its increased engine and chassis performance, but also instantly visible in its design. Aggressive and dynamic, the new R 1300 R makes its intentions clear: dynamic riding on winding country roads. Accordingly, the ergonomics have also been designed to be significantly more active and front-wheel-oriented.” Alexander Buckan, Head of Design BMW Motorrad

The goal behind developing the new BMW R 1300 R was to achieve both a visual and technical enhancement of the dynamic boxer-engine roadster.

The modern, 4.5-gallon aluminum tank, conveys a strong sense of motion, emphasizing its compact packaging, agility and accessibility. The seat and the covered center section of the tank further highlight the dynamic lines, both visually and in terms of tactile quality. These lines culminate at the front in the headlight’s side trim elements and at the rear in a short, crisp tail section.

Finally, the sporty, aggressive appearance of the R 1300 R is rounded off by numerous finely crafted details, including a contrasting paint around the air intake, the two-part front fender and the seat insert.

Alongside its more aggressive, sportier design, equipment features such as the Style Performance variant – including a sport suspension, short hand levers, machined and adjustable footrests, DTC-Shift, two additional sport screens, sport seat, engine spoiler and sport tires – allow customers to dial up the bike’s dynamic potential even further. At the same time, the BMW R 1300 R remains a capable companion for everyday use and touring, and with options such as seat heating, Riding Assistant, a higher windscreen, and a variety of luggage choices, the bike can be perfectly tailored to individual needs of this type.

The BMW Motorrad designers set out to make the new BMW R 1300 R significantly more dynamic and sportier than its predecessor, a goal the new Boxer roadster fulfills not only in terms of design, engine and chassis: equal importance was also placed on ergonomics, with a focus on creating a sportier, more active riding position.

Accordingly, the ergonomic triangle formed by the handlebars, footrests and seat of the new R 1300 R has been designed to position the rider noticeably further forward over the front wheel thanks to slightly rear set footrests and a flatter handlebar. This results in improved feedback from the front end, especially during sporty riding, and therefore greater controllability. At the same time, the sporty seating position still allows for relaxed touring and cruising, even with a passenger.

For individual ergonomic adjustments, the handlebars – made of tapered aluminum tubing – have clamping jaws that are designed to rotate 180 degrees, allowing the handlebars to be positioned 0.4 inches further away from the rider for a sportier seating position, if desired. Further ergonomic adjustments are possible thanks to the footrest system with four-way adjustment, available exclusively on the Style Performance variant.

A range of seat variants ensures an optimum seat height.

For many years, BMW’s Boxer roadsters have enjoyed an excellent reputation among female customers and returning riders. This is thanks to their good balance, accessibility and low seat height. For this reason, the development of the new R 1300 R again placed particular focus on achieving a seat height of well below 31 inches. In addition to the standard seat, high, low and comfort seat options are available accessories.

ENGINE AND DRIVETRAIN

“With significantly increased power and torque compared to its predecessor, the boxer engine in the new BMW R 1300 R is the ideal drive for even more dynamic roadster fun – from sporty country road trips to multi-day tours.” Hauke Glässing, Project Manager BMW R 1300 R

The boxer engine in the new BMW R 1300 R has a capacity of exactly 1,300 cc a bore and stroke of 106.5 mm x 73 mm (predecessor: 102.5 mm x 76 mm). This increase in capacity derives from an enlarged cylinder bore and a new crankshaft with reduced stroke. It has an output of 145 hp (predecessor: 136 hp), still at 7,750 rpm, and develops a maximum torque of 110 lb-ft. at 6,500 rpm (predecessor: 105 lb-ft at 6,250 rpm), making it by far the most powerful serial production BMW boxer engine to date. The maximum engine speed is 9,000 rpm.

The increased power and torque output makes the new R 1300 R more potent and dynamic than ever before, combining enormous pulling power with impressive peak output. This applies to riding fun both solo and with a passenger, whether on sporty rides along winding roads or when going on tours.

It was also possible to optimize efficiency. Despite offering significantly more power and torque, the new BMW R 1300 R consumes no more fuel than its predecessor. The boxer engine sets standards in terms of running smoothness, too, offering a more direct response to throttle commands thanks to reduced load reversal cycles in the powertrain. Ideal alignment of the engine-frame also ensures an exemplary vibration response.

The boxer engine in the new R 1300 R uses an air/liquid cooling system where coolant flows through the engine elements that are subject to particular thermal stress, such as the cylinder heads. Other features that are retained include the vertical-flow cylinder heads, variable oil intake, effective piston base cooling and the DOHC valve gear with light cam followers. In the new boxer engine, the two camshafts are driven on each side of the cylinder by a timing chain running over both camshafts, each from a reduction sprocket. On the right-hand side, the drive is located in front of the cylinder, while on the left-hand side, the timing chain duct is arranged behind the cylinder. Furthermore, the engine of the new BMW R 1300 R feature, the tried-and-tested knock sensor system and BMS-O engine management for highly effective combustion.

The new boxer engine compresses the fuel-air mixture at a ratio of 13.3:1 (predecessor: 12.5:1). The gain in power and torque with high efficiency is also due to recalculated timing and larger valve diameters: these now measure 44 mm instead of 40 mm on the inlet side and 35.6 mm instead of 34 mm on the outlet side.

The 6-speed gearbox and clutch are integrated into the engine housing, not behind the engine but underneath it. The advantages of this new arrangement lie in a reduced overall length and in improved packaging and weight balance, since it was possible to make the transmission shafts significantly shorter. Compared to the 1,250 cc power unit of the predecessor models, it was possible to achieve a weight saving of 8.6 lbs. for the basic engine and 14.3 lbs. for the entire powertrain. At the same time, an even greater concentration of mass towards the overall center of gravity ensures better handling qualities. As before, power is transmitted to the 6-speed gearbox via a ten-disk wet clutch with a self-reinforcing anti-hopping mechanism. Output is via two spur gears, one of which has an integrated vibration damper.

In the interests of increased shifting precision, the gearbox now has a sensor signal transmitter based on a torsion magnet instead of a metal spring. In combination with Gear Shift Assist Pro, this results in a much more direct feel when changing gear.

The driveshaft now has larger universal joints, while a decrease in angle reduces the deflection of the rotational transmission that is inherent in drive shaft joints. The rear axle hub has a longer wheel axle stub for easier mounting and dismounting of the rear wheel.

The boxer engine of the new BMW R 1300 R is equipped with the unique BMW ShiftCam technology for varying the valve timing and valve stroke on the intake side. At the heart of this technology is a single-section intake shift camshaft which has a partial-load and a full-load cam for each valve to be actuated, each with a different cam geometry. While the partial-load cam has been configured to ensure optimized fuel consumption and refinement, the full-load cam is designed for optimized output.

The intake cams for the left and right-hand intake valves of the partial-load cam differ in stroke and angular position. This phase shift means that the two intake valves are opened to different degrees and on a time-staggered basis. The effect of this is to create a swirl effect and therefore greater agitation of the fuel-air mixture flowing into the combustion chamber. As a result, the new BMW R 1300 R benefits from even more effective combustion.

The 2-into-1 exhaust system of the new R 1300 R is made entirely of stainless steel. It is designed for optimum output and torque in conjunction with the BMW ShiftCam technology and for very low weight. It enables a very homogeneous output and torque curve, thereby ensuring the best possible rideability and performance. Exhaust gasses are taken care of by a closed-loop catalytic converter controlled by an oxygen sensor. In this way, the new R 1300 R complies not just with current exhaust standards, but is equipped to meet future requirements, too.

The new R 1300 R has three standard riding modes for adaptation to individual rider preferences. The “RAIN” and “ROAD” riding modes allow riding characteristics to be adapted to most road conditions. The “ECO” riding mode makes it possible to use the innovative BMW ShiftCam technology to achieve maximum range from a single tank of fuel. In this riding mode, a gentle throttle curve and moderate torque limitation promote a riding style that is as economical as possible. In order to provide visual support for a riding style geared towards optimized fuel consumption, an efficiency indicator in the upper status line of the TFT color screen provides feedback when “ECO” mode is activated. If maximum performance is required – e.g. on gradients or when overtaking – it is simple to quickly switch to another riding mode using the riding mode button.

The new R 1300 R can be fitted with the optional Riding Modes Pro, which adds two additional riding modes – “DYNAMIC” and “DYNAMIC PRO”.

At least two and a maximum of four riding modes can be chosen from a list in the settings menu, and these can be selected successively using the riding mode button. This offers a wide range of options for configuring the new R 1300 R to suit the rider’s personal needs. In this way, a preferred and easily manageable number of riding modes can be configured and selected while riding.

Standard MSR Engine Drag Torque Control is used to help avoid unstable riding conditions that can occur during coasting or downshifting due to excessive brake slip at the rear wheel. In these cases, MSR instantly opens the throttle valves to such an extent that drag torque is equalized and the motorcycle stabilizes.

The control response depends on the riding mode. In “ECO”, “RAIN” and “ROAD” riding modes, MSR ensures maximum ride stability, whereas “DYNAMIC” and “DYNAMIC PRO” modes allow for more slip.

Standard DTC Dynamic Traction Control uses fixed base settings to control rear wheel slip in “RAIN”, “ROAD” and “ECO” riding modes. In “DYNAMIC PRO” mode – included in the new R 1300 R Style Performance – fine adjustment via DTC-Shift (+/– shift) is available. To put it simply, this function allows the length of the black line to be adjusted when accelerating out of a corner.

Available ASA Automatic Shift Assistant with fully automated clutch operation and manual or automated shifting for an enhanced motorcycling experience.

With ASA Automatic Shift Assistant, BMW Motorrad offers an innovative technical solution to make motorcycling easier and more comfortable. True to the motto “Simplify your Ride”, automated clutch operation and gear changes puts the riding experience even more front and center – without sacrificing the emotionally important dynamic of the shifting process.

ASA features two electromechanical actuators to automate clutching and shifting in the conventional 6-speed gearbox – the key difference from a conventional shift assistant. As a result, there is no need for a clutch lever for manual operation. Starting, stopping and maneuvering are effortless.

ASA also enhances the actual riding experience with quick gearshifts which are appropriate to the load and engine speed, and the resulting precise gear changes. The rider workload is thus reduced, resulting in greater riding enjoyment. ASA also creates a more direct connection to the boxer engine, as the precise clutch actuation makes it easier to control the ride using the throttle and gear lever.

In shift mode “M”, gears can still be changed manually using the foot lever, allowing the rider to choose the exact shift point. ASA really comes into its own when using shift mode “D”: here, perfectly timed gear changes with smooth torque interruption deliver efficient acceleration and greater ride stability. When shifting up, for instance, the usual jolt associated with a manual gearbox is largely eliminated, reducing the risk of helmet-to-helmet contact between rider and passenger.

Downshifts are also carried out with maximum smoothness, minimizing any disruption to the chassis. In order to ensure optimal gear shifting for each riding situation, different riding modes are assigned specific characteristics of the automated shifting function. And when used in conjunction with Cruise Control or Frontal Collision Warning, the networking of functions brings the future of motorcycling within reach.

Benefits offered by ASA Automatic Shift Assistant:

No need for the rider to operate the clutch.

Dynamic and convenient gear shifts for a more engaging ride.

Choice between manual and automatic shifting.

Automatic adaptation of shifting behavior to rider’s style in mode D.

Prevents the engine from stalling due to poor shift timing.

CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION

“The new BMW R 1300 R is the dynamic boxer roadster that sets new standards in terms of performance. These features are the result of a powerful engine combined with a compact design and a clear focus on riding dynamics. The sports suspension used in the R 1300 R Style Performance offers even greater banking freedom and a firmer damping for particularly sporty rides.” Achim Baier, Vehicle Concept Manager BMW R 1300 R

The chassis of the new BMW R 1300 R has been completely redesigned. The centerpiece is the new sheet steel main frame, which in addition to a significant space optimization for even more compact packaging, also offers higher levels of stiffness than the predecessor model. In the course of the redesign, the rear frame was also completely reconceived. In place of the previous tubular steel construction, the new R 1300 R now has a rear frame made of die-cast aluminum. In addition to excellent stiffness levels and low weight, this new solution also has advantages in terms of optimized installation space as well as offering a high degree of freedom for innovative design. For example, a short, slim rear end in the new R 1300 R forms a significantly stiffer bond with the main frame compared to its predecessor. This results in a noticeable increase in riding precision and stability.

In combination with a much more compact drivetrain, the new design of the chassis achieved a significant concentration of mass towards the overall center of gravity, which is reflected in noticeable handling benefits. At the same time, the new R 1300 R is even more precise and stable when braking, requires noticeably less effort to ride, and offers a more satisfyingly precise response of the suspension components.

The BMW R 1300 R features a new 47 mm upside-down telescopic fork with 5.5 inches of suspension travel. The redesigned rear suspension is built around the Evo Paralever II, with its significantly stiffer connection to the frame and a continuous swinging arm quick-release axle. In addition, the swing arm bearing is now arranged off-axis to the axis of rotation of the drive shaft joint. The rear suspension travel is 5.1 inches.

The new R 1300 R also features new 17-inch aluminum cast wheels with a hollow-spoke design. They weigh a combined 3.0 lbs. less than the previous wheels. The reduced rotational mass results in both improved acceleration and brake response as well as optimized handling qualities. Wheel sizes are 3.5 x 17” front and 6.0 x 17” rear, mounted with 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17 tires, respectively.

The standard Dynamic ESA electronic suspension offers a high level of riding safety and fun on a wide variety of terrains with its dynamic adjustment of the damping and adjustable rear spring pre-load.

The optional electronic Dynamic Suspension Adjustment now goes one step further, combining the dynamic adjustment of the front and rear damping with a corresponding adjustment of the spring rate (spring stiffness) – depending on the selected riding mode, riding conditions and dynamic maneuvers. This makes the new BMW R 1300 R the first series production motorcycle with an upside-down telescopic fork that allows adjustment of the spring rate. Automatic load compensation is provided by the adjustable spring pre-load.

This makes for an even more thrilling riding experience on all surfaces. Whether solo, with a passenger or with luggage – DSA ensures an even higher level of riding safety, performance and comfort. With DSA, the rider benefits from more refined handling. DSA also significantly simplifies usability due to even more integration with the different riding modes. The riding modes can be individualized by means of click-setting in the vehicle settings menu, offering a wealth of options for customizing the new R 1300 R to suit personal preferences. DSA also includes a “prop-up aid” function, making it easier to raise the bike onto the optionally available center stand.

The sports suspension fitted exclusively to the R 1300 R Style Performance variant gives the dynamic roadster an even greater sporting edge. Here, the DSA suspension was further developed with a longer upside-down fork at the front and a longer rear shock. This allows for greater ground clearance and lean angles. In addition, firmer damping provides greater stability and gives the rider more precise feedback. The sport suspension increases ground clearance, thereby raising seat height by around 0.4 inches.

The new R 1300 R comes standard with a twin 310 mm disc brake featuring two radially mounted four-piston fixed calipers at the front and a single 285 mm disc brake with two-piston floating caliper at the rear in conjunction with BMW Motorrad Fully Integral ABS Pro. Here, the handbrake and footbrake levers both activate the front and rear brakes simultaneously. Fully Integral ABS Pro is optimized for the respective purpose by means of an additional set-up that depends on the riding mode. In the Fully Integral ABS Pro settings, it is possible to lock the rear wheel via the foot brake lever.

As a back-up system to Fully Integral ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) offers increased safety when braking in difficult situations – by preventing unintentional throttle application. By means of intervention in the engine control unit, the drive torque is reduced during braking, making full use of the braking power at the rear wheel. This keeps the motorcycle stable and shortens the braking distance.

The new BMW R 1300 R Style Performance variant is also fitted with the Sport Brake system as part of the package. In addition to a sportier look with titanium-colored brake calipers, it offers a slight increase in braking performance.

ELECTRONICS

“The new dynamic octagonal design full LED headlight gives the BMW R 1300 R a distinctive front profile and highlights its more, sporty character. With the Riding Assistant featuring Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Frontal Collision Warning (FCW), two major new features are available as optional equipment for added safety and comfort.” Matthias Hillebrand, Product Manager BMW R 1300 R

Standard full LED headlight and state-of-the-art LED lighting throughout.

BMW Motorrad is regarded as the pioneer when it comes to motorcycling safety and related innovations. Accordingly, the new R 1300 R comes standard with a newly designed dynamic octagonal LED headlight, featuring a distinctive light icon. This illuminates the road with unrivalled clarity. The light unit consists of two LED units for low and high beams. State-of-the-art LED lighting units with newly designed LED turn indicators complete the lighting package of the new R 1300 R.

With the optional Headlight Pro, the dipped beam of the standard full LED headlight is optimized for cornering, depending on the lean angle, by activating additional LED elements. In this way, the turn is almost fully illuminated because the light moves to where the motorcycle is heading. By optimizing the light pattern, the low beam light ensures an even wider and more homogeneous illumination of the road.

Optional Riding Assistant with Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Frontal Collision Warning (FCW) for safe and comfortable motorcycling.

The new BMW R 1300 R can be equipped with the Riding Assistant for safer and more comfortable motorcycling. This includes Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Frontal Collision Warning (FCW).

Active Cruise Control (ACC) enables maximum comfort and the best possible safety when riding: the electronic cruise control with integrated distance control can be used to set the desired riding speed as well as the distance to the vehicle in front. A radar sensor at the front of the motorcycle determines the distance to the vehicle ahead based on the yaw rate and vehicle speed. If this distance decreases, the system reduces speed and automatically restores the desired distance. This frees the mind for carefree riding fun, ensuring a relaxed ride, especially on long tours.

Frontal Collision Warning (FCW) with brake intervention is designed to provide protection from collisions and help reduce the severity of accidents. Frontal Collision Warning uses the ACC radar system to provide protection from frontal collisions. The rider assistance system can warn of potential collisions with other vehicles, or cyclists and preconditions the brakes.

For the first time, GPS Prep now features electric locking for maximum comfort.

The optional GPS Prep feature allows quick and secure attachment and operation of a navigation device or smartphone using a cradle mount. For the first time, this mount no longer requires a physical key – it unlocks electrically for maximum convenience. The new GPS Prep allows use of the BMW Motorrad Navigator 4 to 6, the ConnectedRide Navigator and the ConnectedRide Cradle.

In addition to the optionally available heated grips, the new seat heating for rider and passenger provides comforting warmth on colder days – for a more enjoyable riding experience. Seat heating for the rider is available with all seat height options, while passenger seat heating is only available in combination with the Comfort passenger seat.

The new BMW R 1300 R comes standard with two different types of sockets. A 12-volt onboard power socket is installed on the right-hand side near the passenger footrest pin. In addition, a USB-C socket with 5-volt supply is located on the left-hand side of the cockpit. It delivers up to 2,400 mA of charging current (normal level: 1,200 mA), enabling fast charging depending on smartphone type. A USB adapter cable is available as an accessory item and is equipped with sturdy kink protection.

The external and easily accessible socket is designed to be short-circuit-proof and is protected from overvoltage. Thanks to the integrated sealing cap, it is also effectively protected against the environment.

The new R 1300 R features standard Connectivity, including a 6.5-inch full-color TFT screen. In conjunction with the standard BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller, it gives the rider fast access to vehicle and connectivity functions.

This means it is possible to conveniently make a phone call or listen to music during travel. If a smartphone and a helmet with the BMW Motorrad Communication System are connected via Bluetooth to the TFT screen, for example, the rider can conveniently access media playback and telephone functions. These functions can also be used without the need to install an app. With an active Bluetooth connection to any standard smartphone, the rider can enjoy the pleasures of listening to music during travel. In addition, the BMW Motorrad Connected App offers handy arrow-based navigation suitable for day-to-day use directly via the TFT screen. The BMW Motorrad Connected App can be downloaded free of charge from the Google and Apple app stores. It also includes additional functions such as route logging and the display of other travel information. The basic navigation system will be of particular interest to motorcyclists since it enables convenient organization of day-to-day travel and short trips without the need for additional equipment.

Ensuring the fastest possible assistance in the event of an accident or in situations of emergency and danger can save people’s lives. For this reason, BMW Motorrad has developed an eCall system – “Intelligent Emergency Call” – which aims to get help to the scene of the incident as quickly as possible.

MSRP is $16,595 and the bike is expected in dealerships in the third quarter of 2025.