BMW has introduced the R 1300 R for 2026, the naked roadster taking the 1300cc flat-twin boxer engine we first saw on the R 1300 GS.
Positioned above the retro R 12 nineT but below the S 1000 R and M 1000 R in BMW’s naked lineup, the R 1300 R MSRP starts at $16,595—a $1250 price hike over the outgoing R 1250 R.
But you get far more than just a beefed up R 125 R. The new 1300 is a ground-up redesign and offers four variants in the base model, Exclusive (premium styling), Performance (sportier suspension), and Option 719 Kilauea (milled accessories).
Visually, the R 1300 R marks a big step from its predecessor, with much more aggressive styling, layered radiator shrouds, and a more compact powertrain. Despite appearing bulkier, its curb weight remains 527 pounds.
The 1300’s ergonomics have shifted to be more an attack riding style where the rider is further forward thanks to lower, more forward handlebars and slightly higher rearset ’pegs. The seat height is now 31.1 inches—1.1 inches lower than on the 1250—but you can get multiple seat height options at the dealer.
The engine, shared with the R 1300 GS, makes 143.5 hp and 109.9 lb-ft of torque, which substantially outperforms the old R 1250 R. Of note is the new six-speed gearbox sits beneath the engine for better chassis balance, and it is mated to BMW’s optional Automated Shift Assistant enables clutch-free, fully automatic shifting.
Standard ride modes include Rain, Road, and Eco. The optional Ride Modes Pro adds Dynamic and Dynamic Pro. Electronics include Dynamic Traction Control, engine drag torque control, lean-sensitive Integral ABS Pro, and optional radar-based Active Cruise Control and Front Collision Warning.
The chassis is consisted of a steel main frame and die-cast aluminum subframe. A 47mm inverted fork and EVO Paralever rear offer 5.5 and 5.1 inches of travel, respectively.
Standard Dynamic ESA manages damping and preload, while the optional Dynamic Suspension Adjustment adds electronic spring rate control—making it the first production motorcycle with an inverted fork and electronically adjustable spring rate.
Braking is handled by dual radial Brembo four-piston front calipers and a two-piston rear, with standard Integral ABS Pro. Other highlights include a 6.5-inch TFT display, lightweight wheels, full LED lighting with optional adaptive headlights, USB-C and 12V sockets.
Color schemes vary by trim, from Snapper Rocks Metallic on the base model to Light White with gold fork and sport tires on the Performance variant.
2026 BMW R 1300 R Specifications
| MSRP: | $16,595 |
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid-cooled, four-stroke boxer twin, eight valves |
| Displacement: | 1300cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 106.5 x 73.0mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 13.3:1 |
| Transmission: | Six-speed gearbox, shaft drive |
| Horsepower: | 143.5 hp at 7750 rpm (claimed) |
| Torque: | 109.9 lb.-ft. at 6500 rpm (claimed) |
| Fuel System: | Fuel injection, ride-by-wire |
| Clutch: | Wet; hydraulically activated, anti-hopping |
| Frame: | Steel main frame, aluminum subframe |
| Front Suspension: | 47mm inverted fork; 5.5 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Cast aluminum single-sided swingarm, BMW Motorrad EVO paralever; 5.1 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Four-piston radial-mount calipers, 310mm discs, ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Two-piston floating caliper, 285mm disc, ABS |
| Front tire: | 120/70-17 |
| Rear tire: | 190/55-17 |
| Rake | 27.5° |
| Trail: | 5.0 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 59.5 in. |
| Seat Height: | 30.9 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.5 gal. |
| Weight: | 527 lb (claimed, wet) |
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