BMW R1200RT 2012: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey guys, today we're diving deep into the BMW R1200RT 2012 model, a bike that's been a favorite for touring riders for ages. If you're looking for a machine that can eat up miles in comfort and style, you've definitely come to the right place. This bike isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about the journey, the experience, and the sheer joy of riding. We'll be breaking down what makes this particular model so special, looking at its performance, its touring capabilities, its tech features, and what you need to know if you're considering buying one or if you already own one and want to get the most out of it. So, buckle up, or rather, gear up, because we're about to explore everything you need to know about the 2012 BMW R1200RT.

Performance and Powertrain: The Heart of the Beast

Let's talk about what really makes the BMW R1200RT 2012 tick – its engine and how it performs on the road. This beast is powered by BMW's legendary 1170cc, air-cooled, flat-twin boxer engine. Now, for those who aren't familiar with BMW's boxer engines, they're quite unique. The cylinders stick out horizontally from the sides of the bike, which gives it a distinctive look and also contributes to a lower center of gravity, making it surprisingly nimble for a touring bike. In the 2012 R1200RT, this engine pumps out a healthy 110 horsepower and around 85 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you, the rider? It means you've got plenty of grunt to get moving, whether you're pulling away from a stoplight or overtaking a slower vehicle on the highway. The torque delivery is smooth and accessible across the rev range, making it a pleasure to ride in various conditions. You won't find yourself constantly shifting gears; the engine just pulls, and pulls, and pulls. This is crucial for a touring bike, where you want a relaxed and effortless ride, especially after hours in the saddle. The six-speed gearbox is also smooth, with well-spaced ratios that complement the engine's power delivery. The clutch is typically light and progressive, making maneuvering in tight spots or in traffic a breeze. And let's not forget the sound – that distinctive boxer rumble is music to a rider's ears, a constant reminder of the engineering prowess under you. For the 2012 model year, BMW also made some refinements to the engine, including a double-overhead camshaft (DOHC) setup for improved breathing and performance. This wasn't a radical overhaul, but these subtle tweaks further enhance the bike's responsiveness and overall capability. So, when you're out on the open road, cruising at highway speeds, the R1200RT feels right at home. It's stable, it's powerful, and it's incredibly comfortable, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about whether the bike can keep up. The engine is reliable, built to go the distance, which is exactly what you want in a touring machine. You're looking at a bike that's not just about raw power, but about usable, refined power that makes every ride a pleasure.

Touring Comfort and Ergonomics: Your Home on Two Wheels

When we talk about the BMW R1200RT 2012, we're really talking about a motorcycle designed for the long haul. Comfort and ergonomics are paramount, and BMW absolutely nailed it with this model. From the moment you swing your leg over, you can tell this bike is built for touring. The riding position is upright and relaxed, reducing strain on your wrists, back, and neck, which is a huge deal when you're covering hundreds, or even thousands, of miles. The seat is plush and supportive, designed to keep you comfortable even on the longest rides. It's also typically adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect position for your body. The footpegs are set at a comfortable distance, and the handlebars are positioned to give you a commanding yet relaxed view of the road ahead. But the comfort doesn't stop there. One of the standout features of the R1200RT is its aerodynamic fairing. This isn't just for looks; it's a sophisticated piece of engineering designed to protect you from wind blast and the elements. The adjustable windscreen is a game-changer. You can raise it up to create a quiet, calm cocoon around you, reducing fatigue significantly, or lower it for better airflow and a more connected feel to the ride. Many riders find they can have a conversation at highway speeds with the windscreen fully up, which is a testament to its effectiveness. The fairing also directs air around the rider's legs and torso, keeping you warmer in cooler weather and reducing buffeting. Luggage capacity is another crucial aspect of touring, and the R1200RT doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with integrated, lockable hard saddlebags that offer ample storage space for your gear. There's also often a top case available as an option, further increasing your carrying capacity. These bags are not only spacious but also integrated seamlessly into the bike's design, maintaining its sleek profile. For those really long trips, the optional passenger seat is also designed with comfort in mind, ensuring your companion enjoys the ride as much as you do. The overall ergonomics contribute to a sense of confidence and control, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy the journey. This bike is designed to make you feel at home, wherever your adventure takes you, transforming long-distance travel from a chore into a true pleasure.

Technology and Features: Smart Riding, Enhanced Experience

The BMW R1200RT 2012 isn't just about brute force and comfort; it's also packed with thoughtful technology designed to enhance your riding experience and safety. BMW has always been at the forefront of motorcycle innovation, and this model showcases that. One of the most significant technological features you'll find is the Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA). This system allows you to electronically adjust the suspension settings on the fly, adapting to different loads (solo rider, rider with passenger, rider with luggage) and riding conditions (comfort, sport). This means you can fine-tune your bike's handling and ride quality without having to stop and fiddle with manual adjusters. It’s a fantastic feature for a touring bike, ensuring optimal performance and comfort no matter what you’re carrying or where you’re going. Another key technological aspect is the bike's integrated braking system, often referred to as BMW's Integral ABS. This system links the front and rear brakes when you pull the brake lever, providing balanced and powerful stopping force. It significantly enhances safety, especially in emergency situations, helping to prevent lock-ups and maintain stability. For the 2012 model, it’s a refined system that inspires confidence. Many R1200RT models from this era also come equipped with cruise control. This is an absolute godsend for long highway stretches, allowing you to relax your throttle hand and maintain a steady speed, further reducing fatigue and making your journey more enjoyable. Heated grips are another common and highly appreciated feature, especially for riders who tour in cooler climates or during shoulder seasons. They provide warmth and comfort, making riding in chilly weather a much more pleasant experience. The instrument cluster is typically well-designed and informative, providing the rider with all the necessary information at a glance, including speed, RPM, fuel level, gear indicator, and often a range of other data through an onboard computer. Some models might even feature an audio system, further adding to the luxury touring experience. While it might not have all the flashy digital displays of today's bikes, the technology on the 2012 R1200RT is practical, functional, and genuinely enhances the touring experience. It's about making the ride safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable, which is precisely what you want from a premium touring motorcycle. BMW’s commitment to integrating useful technology is evident throughout this machine.

Riding Experience: What It's Like on the Road

So, you've got the specs, you know about the comfort and the tech, but what is the BMW R1200RT 2012 actually like to ride? In a nutshell, it’s a supremely competent and enjoyable machine for covering serious ground. On the open highway, the R1200RT is in its element. The aerodynamic fairing and adjustable windscreen work wonders, cutting through the air and creating a calm bubble that shields you from wind blast and noise. This dramatically reduces rider fatigue, allowing you to focus on the pure pleasure of riding for hours on end. The engine, with its broad torque curve, pulls strongly and smoothly, making overtakes effortless and maintaining high speeds feel relaxed. You can simply set the cruise control (if equipped) and let the miles melt away. The chassis is stable and planted, offering a confidence-inspiring ride, even when the road gets a bit rough. The boxer engine's low center of gravity contributes to its surprising agility for a bike of its size and weight. It’s not a sportbike, by any means, but it can be leaned over with confidence through sweeping curves, and the suspension, especially with ESA, does a fantastic job of keeping the tires glued to the pavement. In urban environments or when navigating slower traffic, the R1200RT is more manageable than you might expect. The light clutch and smooth gearbox make stop-and-go traffic less of a chore, and the upright riding position gives you good visibility. Maneuvering at low speeds is aided by the low center of gravity, making it feel more balanced than its weight might suggest. Parking and U-turns are generally straightforward, though like any large touring bike, it requires a bit of deliberate effort. The braking system is strong and predictable, providing ample stopping power with a reassuring feel. The ABS integration means you can brake hard with confidence, even on less-than-ideal surfaces. The overall feel of the bike is one of refinement and capability. It’s a bike that encourages you to ride further, explore more, and do it all in absolute comfort. Whether you're commuting, embarking on a weekend getaway, or undertaking a cross-country adventure, the R1200RT delivers a consistent, enjoyable, and safe riding experience. It’s a motorcycle that truly understands the needs of a touring rider.

Ownership and Maintenance: Keeping Your Bavarian Beemer Happy

Owning a BMW R1200RT 2012 means you're investing in a premium touring machine, and like any premium machine, it requires some attention to keep it running in top condition. However, BMWs are renowned for their build quality and longevity, and the R1200RT is no exception. Routine maintenance is key to ensuring your bike stays reliable and performs at its best. This includes regular oil changes, checking and adjusting valve clearances (the boxer engine's valves are accessible, making this a manageable task for a skilled home mechanic or a BMW dealer), inspecting the air filter, and checking brake fluid and pads. The shaft drive system, a hallmark of BMW motorcycles, is a significant advantage for touring riders as it requires far less maintenance than a chain drive. There's no need for regular cleaning, lubrication, and tension adjustment. You just need to ensure the final drive oil is changed at the recommended intervals. The electrical system on these bikes is generally robust, but as with any complex machine, it's worth keeping an eye on battery health and connections, especially if the bike sits for extended periods. If your bike is equipped with ESA, regular checks of the system's fluid and seals are also advisable. Parts availability for BMW motorcycles is generally very good, though genuine BMW parts can sometimes be a bit pricier than aftermarket options. However, for critical components, sticking with genuine parts is often the best way to ensure reliability and longevity. Service manuals are readily available, which is a huge plus for DIY enthusiasts. While the initial purchase price of a BMW might be higher, the long-term ownership experience is often very rewarding due to the bike's durability and the quality of engineering. Regular, preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs down the line and to ensure your R1200RT is always ready for its next adventure. Remember to consult your owner's manual for specific service intervals and recommendations. Keeping your Bavarian beemer happy means it will continue to be your trusted companion on countless miles of riding pleasure.

Pros and Cons: The Good, The Bad, and The Boxer

Let's wrap things up by looking at the good, the bad, and the maybe-not-so-bad of the BMW R1200RT 2012.

Pros:

• Unbeatable Touring Comfort: This is what the R1200RT is famous for. The ergonomics, wind protection, and comfortable seating make it ideal for long-distance riding. You can ride all day with minimal fatigue.
• Smooth and Strong Boxer Engine: The 1170cc flat-twin provides ample power and torque for effortless cruising and overtaking. It's a refined and reliable powerplant.
• Advanced Technology (for its time): Features like ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) and Integral ABS significantly enhance the riding experience and safety, setting it apart from many competitors.
• Shaft Drive: Low maintenance, clean, and reliable, the shaft drive is a huge benefit for touring riders.
• Excellent Build Quality: BMWs are known for their robust construction and durable components, meaning this bike is built to last.
• Ample Luggage Capacity: Integrated saddlebags and optional top cases provide plenty of space for all your touring essentials.

Cons:

• Weight: While manageable, the R1200RT is a relatively heavy motorcycle, which can be a factor in slow-speed maneuvers or when pushing it hard in twisty sections.
• Price: As a premium German-engineered machine, it was and often still is, more expensive than some of its Japanese or American counterparts.
• Complexity: While the technology enhances the ride, it can also mean more complex and potentially expensive repairs if something goes wrong, especially outside of the dealer network.
• Heated Grips/Seats (Optional/Standard): While great when present, not all models came standard with heated grips or seats, which might be a desired feature for some.

Overall, the BMW R1200RT 2012 is a fantastic motorcycle for anyone who prioritizes comfort, capability, and refinement in their touring experience. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, especially if you're looking for a dependable partner for adventure and long-distance journeys. Guys, if you get a chance to ride one, do it. You won't be disappointed!