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2021 BMW R 1250RS Overview
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 1254 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine running Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.5:1. 2021 BMW R 1250RS delivers 136 hp @ 7750 rpm of peak power and 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 201.2 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2021 R 1250RS tips the scales at 243 kg, carries a 18-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 820 mm and spans a 1530 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2021 BMW R 1250RS spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2021 R 1250RS - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Strong power output: 2021 BMW R 1250RS makes 136 hp @ 7750 rpm with 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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Large fuel range: The 18-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
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Tall seat height: The 820 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Throttle response and fuelling
The fuel injection on the 2021 BMW R 1250RS is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.
Valve clearance checks
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.
Low-speed confidence
At 243 kg, the R 1250RS is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
R 1250RS - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2021 BMW R 1250RS, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 1250RS should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any R 1250RS. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The R 1250RS's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used R 1250RS. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.
2021 BMW R 1250RS - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2021 BMW R 1250RS have?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS uses a Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke engine with 1254 cc of displacement. It is liquid / air cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2021 BMW R 1250RS?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS has a factory-quoted top speed of 201.2 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2021 BMW R 1250RS weigh?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS weighs 243 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2021 BMW R 1250RS make?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS produces 136 hp @ 7750 rpm of power and 143 Nm @ 6250 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2021 BMW R 1250RS?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS has a 18-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 300-360 km between stops.
Is the 2021 BMW R 1250RS suitable for shorter riders?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS has a seat height of 820 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2021 BMW R 1250RS have?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS uses 2x 320mm floating discs, 4-piston radial brake calipers at the front and Single 276mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2021 BMW R 1250RS use?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS runs 120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2021 BMW R 1250RS have?
The 2021 BMW R 1250RS is fitted with a Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with helical gearing system transmission.
BMW R 1250RS Spec Evolution
The BMW R 1250RS was produced across 5 model years (2019-2023). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm |
| Fuel Capacity |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal |
18 Litres / 4.8 US gal |
| Comments |
Windscreen. |
Adjustable Windshield. 2 Ride Modes (Rain/Road). Automatic Stability Control. |
Adjustable Windshield. 2 Ride Modes (Rain/Road). Automatic Stability Control. |
Adjustable Windshield. 2 Ride Modes (Rain/Road). Automatic Stability Control. |
Adjustable Windshield. 3 Ride Modes (Rain/Road/Eco). Automatic Stability Control. Hill Start Control. |
| Suspension - Rear |
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel- related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel |
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel- related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel |
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel- related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel |
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel- related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel |
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel- related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel - Optional Dynamic ESA Next Generation |
| Fuel System |
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection |
Injection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system |
Injection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system |
Injection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system |
Injection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system |
| Colours |
Black Storm Metallic, Style Sport, Style Exclusive, Option 719 Dtardust Metallic |
Black Storm Metallic, Style Sport, Style Exclusive, Sparkling Bronze Metallic |
Black Storm Metallic, Style Sport Yellow, Style Exclusive Blue |
Black Storm Metallic, Light White, Style Imperial Blue Metallic |
Black Storm Metallic/Agate Grey, Light White, Light White/Racing Blue Metallic/Racing Red |
| Battery Capacity |
12V/12Ah |
12V/12Ah |
12 V / 11.8 Ah, maintenance-free |
12 V / 11.8 Ah, maintenance-free |
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| Rims |
Aluminium-Gussräder |
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Cast aluminum |
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Key Specifications
Engine
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power
136 hp / 100 kW @ 7750 rpm
Torque
143 Nm / 105.4 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm
Top Speed
201.2 km/h / 125.0 mph
Weight
243 kg / 535.7 lbs
Fuel Capacity
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal
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Full 2021 BMW R 1250RS Specifications
Comments
Adjustable Windshield. 2 Ride Modes (Rain/Road). Automatic Stability Control.
Year
2021
Colours
Black Storm Metallic, Style Sport Yellow, Style Exclusive Blue
Make Model
BMW R 1250RS
Seat Height
820 mm / 32.3 in OE low seat: 760 mm / 29.9 in OE sport seat: 840 mm / 33.0 in
Wheelbase
1530 mm / 60.2 in
Height
1255 mm / 49.4 in minimum
Length
2202 mm / 86.6 in
Width
925 mm / 36.4 in
Fuel Capacity
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal
Wet Weight
243 kg / 535.7 lbs
Fuel Control
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Engine Type
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
CO2
109.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Displacement
1254 cc / 76.5 cu-in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, with two overhead, spur gear driven camshafts , a counterbalance shaft and variable intake camshaft control system BMW ShiftCam, 4 valves per cylinder, Intake 40mm, outlet 34 mm
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle system
Bore x Stroke
102.5 x 76 mm
Compression Ratio
12.5:1
Cooling System
Liquid / Air cooled
Emissions
Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, compliant with Euro 5 emission standard
Engine Lubrication
Dry sump
Engine Management
Digital engine control: BMS-O with e-gas
Fuel Consumption
4.70 litres/100 km (21.3 km/l or 50.05 mpg)
Fuel Induction
Electronic intake pipe fuel injection, 52mm throttle valve
Fuel Reserve
4.00 litres / 1.06 US gallons
Fuel Type
Super petrol unleaded, octane number 95 (ROZ), adaptation through engine control (91 to 98 ROZ)
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Battery Capacity
12 V / 11.8 Ah, maintenance-free
Clutch
Wet clutch with anti-hopping function, hydraulically activated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gearbox
6-speed
Primary Drive
Constant mesh
Transmission / Drive
Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with helical gearing system
Frame Type
Two-section frame concept consisting of main frame with bolt-on rear frame, load-bearing engine
Suspension - Front
Telescopic Upside-Down fork; stanchion diameter 45 mm
Suspension - Rear
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel- related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel
Rake
26.7°
Steering Angle
62.3°
Trail
110.9 mm / 4.3 in
Wheel Travel - Front
140 mm / 5.5 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
140 mm / 5.5 in
Brakes - Front
2x 320mm floating discs, 4-piston radial brake calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single 276mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper
ABS
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part integral), disengageable
Rims
Cast aluminum
Tyres - Front
120/70 ZR17
Tyres - Rear
180/55 ZR17
Wheels
Cast aluminium wheels
Wheels - Front
3.50 x 17 in
Wheels - Rear
5.50 x 17 in
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