From BMW Press release

BMW Motorrad has always exerted a considerable influence in the touring market and continues to lead, where others follow. In fact, it has a worldwide market share of more than 41 per cent.

The RT ‘Boxer’ is the most successful BMW Motorrad tourer ever. The R1150 RT has consistently been the market leader, enjoying a particularly loyal customer base despite repeated attempts from other manufacturers to capture a market share.

Since it was launched in the UK in March 2001 the R1150 RT has sold over 2,350 units, making it the second most popular model in the current range behind the R1200 GS. Customers buy it for its outstanding ride comfort, long distance capability, fuel economy, performance, excellent ergonomics and luggage carrying capacity.

Its successor – the new R1200 RT – is the second model of the new Boxer generation and is predestined to become the ultimate touring machine. It has been improved significantly in all the above areas. It is more powerful than its predecessor, faster, significantly lighter, has improved wind and weather protection, better fuel economy and an increased tank range (as well as longer service intervals than its competitors).

Radically innovative – and not just a cosmetic face-lift with token improvements – the new touring machine adheres to BMW Motorrad’s current philosophy of producing dynamic and agile, lower mass motorcycles without sacrificing traditional BMW virtues of safety, environmental compliance, practicality, and unmatched road holding. The R1200 RT replaces BMW’s benchmark-setting R1150 RT.

With the 1150cc model already acknowledged as the epitome of comfort, weather protection, aerodynamic stability, and long-distance touring capability, the new R1200 RT builds on its predecessor’s inherent strengths and popularity while incorporating a huge number of significant improvements.

With 16 per cent more power, driving approximately 20kg less weight, the R1200 RT delivers a considerable boost in dynamic performance and provides even greater agility than its predecessor. Combined with excellent rid¬ing characteristics, superior riding comfort, an expansive new body design (for more effective protection from the elements), extensive rider/passenger ergonom¬ics and adjustments, and many other unique BMW practical riding features, the new R 1200 RT is destined to become the industry’s most versatile, and dedicated, long distance touring machine.

BMW Motorrad is expecting much of its existing and loyal customer base of R1150 RT owners to trade up to the new machine, which will be very competitively priced in the UK from £9,910 (on the road). However, like the R1200 GS, which was launched early in 2004, the new R1200 RT has been designed to capture a new market share. Its ‘active touring’ capabilities will therefore appeal to many riders new to the brand, who have yet to be convinced that a touring motorcycle can also be dynamic, agile and fun to ride.

The new R1200 RT is without a doubt a substantial evolution in the tourer segment and will be available for demonstration rides in every BMW Motorrad dealership from 12 February 2005. It is available with Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) as seen on the new K1200 S as an option, from March production. This system enables the rider to adjust the spring base and damper rate – the latter even while riding – by pressing a button located on the handlebar.

Important features of the R1200 RT – at a glance
• Air-cooled, flat-twin power unit displaces 1,170 cc and features a newly aligned balance shaft.
• Greater power and performance – 81kW (110 bhp) maximum output and 115Nm (85 lb-ft) of maximum torque.
• Electronic BMS-K engine management with dual ignition and anti-knock control.
• Fully controlled three-way catalytic converter with two oxygen sensors
• Six-speed gearbox with helical gears.
• Innovative on-board network with CAN-bus technology.
• Highly stable, tubular construction lightweight frame.
• Lightweight Paralever with weight-optimised driveshaft, adjustable TDD spring strut.
• Extra-stiff Telelever ensuring a smooth and comfortable response.
• New cast wheels.
• EVO brakes with BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partly integrated version) fitted as standard.
• New body design with very good wind and weather protection, featuring in¬te¬grated rear-view mirrors.
• Electrical windshield with continuous progressive adjustment.
• Fuel tank made of special, extra-strong synthetic material – 27 litres (5.9 gal) capacity for long range.
• Two-piece, adjustable seat in two versions with a seat height ranging from 780–840 mm (30.7–33.1´´).
• New hard-shell cases (32 litres volume per case) fitted as standard, with four-point locking system and case covers finished in body colour.
• Fuel tank railing for fastening accessories with maximum convenience.
• Weight in road trim (without cases) 259kg (571 lb).
• Dry weight (without cases) 229kg (505 lb).