2001BMW R 1150 RT

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The 2001 BMW R 1150 RT is a heavyweight touring machine designed for long-distance riders seeking comfort and reliability. Its 1130cc boxer engine delivers smooth power and abundant torque, while the sophisticated six-speed gearbox and fuel injection system ensure effortless highway cruising. Best known for its legendary durability and composed handling, the RT remains the benchmark for sport-touring motorcycles.

Capacity: 1130.0 ccm
Engine: Boxer, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 279.0 kg
Seat height: 780 mm
Power: 95.0 HP (69.9 kW) @ 7250 RPM

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Other years 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering55%

City riding45%

Daily riding70%

Touring97%

Two-up90%

Track20%

Best for: Built primarily for long-distance, high-comfort touring rather than outright speed or sporty cornering.
Built for: A composed, unhurried, and refined mile-muncher that rewards smooth inputs and relaxed riding over aggressive throttle use.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking a light, flickable bike for tight city commuting or aggressive backroad carving.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 780mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2001 BMW R 1150 RT, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1130.0 ccm
Power: 95.0 HP (69.9 kW) @ 7250 RPM
Torque: 100.0 Nm (10.2 kgf-m)
Engine type: Boxer, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3405 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 101.0 x 70.5 mm
Compression: 11.3:1
Cooling system: Oil & air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Single-disc dry clutch, hydraulically operated

Performance

Top speed: 203.0 km/h (126.1 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1485 mm
Overall length: 2230 mm
Overall width: 898 mm
Overall height: 1380 mm
Seat height: 780 mm
Dry weight: 279.0 kg
Wet weight: 285.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 25.00 litres
Front percentage of weight: 50.2

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Three-section composite frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine.
Front suspension: BMW Motorrad Telelever; stanchion diameter 35 mm, central strut
Rear suspension: Die-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; spring pre-load adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of hydraulic handwheel, rebound damping adjustable
Front wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear wheel travel: 135 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.1°
Trail: 122 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Dual disc
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 276 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 170/60-ZR17

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005
Capacity	1130 cc	1130 cc	1130 cc	1130 cc	1130 cc
Dry weight	279 kg	279 kg	279 kg	255 kg	255 kg
Seat height	780 mm	805 mm	805 mm	805 mm	805 mm
Fuel capacity	25 L	25 L	25 L	25.2 L	25.2 L