BMW R 1300 RT (2026+) Maintenance Schedule and Service Info
This is the maintenance schedule and associated service intervals for the BMW R 1300 RT 2026. The schedule applies to all BMW R 1300 RT motorcycles built on the latest 1,300cc boxer twin platform, which debuted with the R 1300 GS and is now shared across several models.
The BMW R 1300 RT uses BMW’s latest generation boxer engine: a 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled twin with ShiftCam variable valve timing and lift, delivering a claimed 145 hp and 110 lb-ft of torque. This is the same core engine found in the R 1300 GS, GS Adventure, and R 1300 R. It features a redesigned six-speed transmission located beneath the engine, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved mass centralization. The combination of pressed steel main frame and aluminum subframe is consistent with the latest BMW boxer architecture.
Current models built on this platform include:
- BMW R 1300 RT: Sport-touring model with full touring equipment
- BMW R 1300 GS: Adventure touring model
- BMW R 1300 GS Adventure: Long-range adventure variant with increased touring capability
- BMW R 1300 RS: Sport-touring model focused on dynamic road riding
- BMW R 1300 R: Naked/roadster variant
For 2026, the R 1300 RT is available in four main variants: Alpine White, Style Triple Black, Style Impulse, and Option 719 Camargue. Each variant shares the same core engine and maintenance intervals, but may have differences in paint, handlebars, windscreen, or optional equipment such as luggage and electronics.
Changes from the previous R 1250 RT include a complete engine redesign, new chassis, increased power and torque, updated electronics, and improved ergonomics. Despite these updates, the maintenance schedule is fundamentally unchanged and continues to follow BMW’s standard boxer engine intervals. Brakes, fluids, and wear items should be maintained as per the schedule.
No changes to the schedule are required for special editions or optional packages; only minor differences may occur for region-specific variants, and these are detailed in the service manual.
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BMW R 1300 RT 2026 Service Intervals
The basic service interval for the BMW R 1300 RT is every 6,000 miles / 10,000 km or every 12 months, whichever comes first. At each interval, change the engine oil and filter, and review the schedule for any additional items due.
Valve clearance inspection is required every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). This is considered a major service, as the 1,300 cc ShiftCam boxer twin has both intake and exhaust valve checks due to its variable valve timing system. Spark plugs are also inspected or replaced during this interval.
Basic Service Schedule
- First service: 300 – 750 miles / 500 – 1,200 km
- Standard Service: Every 6,000 miles / 10,000 km or 12 months
- Valve check: Every 12,000 miles / 20,000 km
General Notes on Serviceability for the BMW R 1300 RT
- The R 1300 RT uses BMW’s 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled boxer twin with ShiftCam, so valve covers are easily accessible on either side of the bike, simplifying valve clearance checks.
- Engine oil and coolant levels should be checked regularly; both fill points are easy to access once the side fairings are removed.
- The shaft drive system requires periodic oil changes but offers less day-to-day maintenance than a chain.
- Most routine service items, including spark plugs and the air filter, are positioned for straightforward access, but removing bodywork is required for some jobs.
- Regular electronic diagnostics are advised to keep up with the RT’s advanced rider aids and electronic systems.
BMW R 1300 RT Maintenance Schedule Tables
Below is the maintenance schedule for the BMW R 1300 RT. The content here is the same as in the manual, though presented in a clearer, easier-to-read way.
The schedule is divided into three parts:
- First service (BMW Motorrad running-in check): Performed between 300 – 750 miles / 500 – 1,200 km.
- Standard service (BMW Motorrad Service): Performed every 6,000 miles / 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
- Long-term service intervals: Tasks that come up less frequently, such as valve clearance checks and other major items.
First Service
The first service is usually carried out by the dealer under warranty. It should be completed between 300 – 750 miles / 500 – 1,000 km.
Note: Some of the below items, including those that need the BMW Motorrad diagnostic system or re-setting the service due date, require dealer-specific equipment. These are marked with a [D].
| First Service Maintenance for BMW R 1300 RT |
|---|
| Setting service-due date and countdown distance |
| [D] Performing vehicle test with BMW Motorrad diagnostic system |
| Engine-oil change, with filter (BMW Motorrad Advantec Ultimate 5W-40, HF160RC) |
| Changing oil in bevel gears |
| Check the brake-fluid level, front wheel brake |
| Check the brake-fluid level, rear wheel brake |
| Check the coolant level |
| Checking tire tread depth and tire pressures |
| Checking lighting and signaling system |
| Check the tension of the spokes, adjust if necessary |
| Function test, engine start suppression |
| Final inspection and check of roadworthiness |
| [D] Performing vehicle test with BMW Motorrad diagnostic system |
| [D] Confirm the BMW service in the on-board literature |
Standard Service
Do the following checks for the BMW R 1300 RT every 6,000 miles / 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Note: Some of the below items, including those that need the BMW Motorrad diagnostic system or re-setting the service due date, require dealer-specific equipment. These are marked with a [D].
| Standard Service Maintenance for BMW R 1300 RT |
|---|
| Engine-oil change, with filter (BMW Motorrad Advantec Ultimate 5W-40, HF160RC) |
| [D] Performing vehicle test with BMW Motorrad diagnostic system |
| Visual inspection of clutch system |
| Visual inspection of the brake lines, brake hoses and connections |
| Check the front brake pads and brake discs for wear |
| Check the brake-fluid level, front wheel brake |
| Check the rear brake pads and brake disc for wear |
| Check the brake-fluid level, rear wheel brake |
| Check the coolant level |
| Checking flexor panel on handlebar bridge |
| Check the side stand’s ease of movement |
| Check the ease of movement of the centre stand |
| Check the tire pressures and tread depth |
| Check the tension of the spokes, adjust if necessary |
| Checking lighting and signalling system |
| Function test, engine start suppression |
| Final inspection and check of roadworthiness |
| [D] Performing vehicle test with BMW Motorrad diagnostic system |
| Setting service-due date and countdown distance with BMW Motorrad diagnostic system |
| Checking battery state of charge |
| [D] Confirm the BMW Motorrad service in the on-board literature |
Long-Term Service Intervals
The following tasks are required less frequently, at longer intervals. While they are not part of regular or annual service, they are essential for long-term performance and reliability. Refer to the maintenance schedule table below for the recommended intervals.
Notes:
- At the end of the schedule, continue in the pattern shown, every 6,000 miles / 10,000 km or year.
- Replace Cardan shaft at 48,000 miles / 80,000 km (omitted from table below for conciseness).
- When both time and distance intervals are listed, follow whichever comes first.
| km x 1000 | 10 | 20 | 30 | 40 | time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| mi x 1000 | 6 | 12 | 18 | 24 | (months) |
| Oil change in bevel gears rear | ✓ | ✓ | 24 | ||
| Check valve clearances | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Replace all spark plugs (LMAR8AI-10) | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Replace air-filter element | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Cardan shaft, visual inspection and lubrication | ✓ | ||||
| Change brake fluid (entire system) (BMW DOT 4) | After 1 year, then every 2 years |
BMW R 1300 RT Tire Sizes and Pressures
The following are tire sizes and tire pressures for the BMW R 1300 RT.
| Wheel/Tire | Rim size | Size | Pressure (cold) Depending on load/passenger/luggage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front | 3.5 x 17 inch | 120/70 ZR 17 | 2.5 bar / 36 psi |
| Rear | 6.0 x 17 inch | 190/55 ZR 17 | 2.9 bar / 42 psi |
About the BMW R 1300 RT
The R 1300 RT has long been the gold standard for anyone who takes their touring seriously but refuses to sacrifice handling or power. The 2026 update brings this legendary machine right up to date, blending classic RT comfort and practicality with a sharper, lighter feel and enough tech to make most sportbikes jealous.
At the heart of the R 1300 RT is the new 1,300 cc air/liquid-cooled boxer twin with ShiftCam variable valve timing, pushing out 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and a hefty 149 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. This is the most powerful boxer engine BMW has ever produced, and you can feel it whether you’re powering along a twisty alpine road or just rolling on for an overtake with a full load of luggage and a passenger. The six-speed gearbox sits underneath the engine for a more compact design and better mass centralisation, giving the RT surprisingly nimble handling for such a big machine.
The ride is where the RT really comes alive. Thanks to a completely redesigned chassis, a new EVO Telelever front end, and EVO Paralever rear suspension, the bike is rock solid at speed and plush on rough roads. Standard Dynamic ESA electronic suspension constantly adapts to the road, and the new optional Dynamic Chassis Adaption (DCA) takes it even further with two selectable ride geometries for either maximum comfort or sharper handling. New lightweight wheels shave off more than a kilo, improving both acceleration and brake response.
Comfort has always been the RT’s calling card, and this new model doubles down with better wind and weather protection, an adjustable seat and handlebars, and heated grips and seats for both rider and passenger. BMW’s signature cases are now electrified and centrally locked, with an ingenious variable-width system for squeezing through city traffic or loading up for a month-long trek. There’s even an actively ventilated smartphone compartment and a 10.25-inch TFT dash with integrated navigation, media, and accessory control.
Technology is front and centre, with standard features like full LED lighting, cruise control with braking function, and a whole raft of optional safety aids. Add-ons like radar-guided Active Cruise Control, lane change and collision warning, and adaptive headlights bring a level of sophistication you would expect in a luxury car.
Braking is handled by twin 310 mm discs up front with four-piston calipers and BMW Integral ABS Pro as standard. There’s even an optional sport brake system with beefier calipers if you want a little more bite.
Compared to the BMW R 1300 RS, which is the sport-touring sibling, the RT is focused more on long-range comfort, wind protection, and load-carrying, while the RS is dialled in for dynamic road riding and a sportier seating position.
| Feature | BMW R 1300 RT | BMW R 1300 RS |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled boxer, ShiftCam, 145 hp | Same |
| Torque | 149 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | Same |
| Front Suspension | EVO Telelever, Dynamic ESA (semi-active), optional DCA | 47mm upside-down telescopic fork, Dynamic ESA, optional DSA (adjustable spring rate), optional sport suspension |
| Rear Suspension | EVO Paralever, Dynamic ESA (semi-active), optional DCA | EVO Paralever, Dynamic ESA, optional DSA, optional sport suspension |
| Brakes | Twin 310mm discs front, BMW Integral ABS Pro | Same |
| Seat Height | 780/860 mm (multiple options, lowest standard) | 790/815 mm (multiple options) |
| Wet Weight | 281 kg | 245 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 24 liters | 17 liters |
| Wind Protection | Full touring fairing, electrically adjustable windshield, enhanced weather protection | Sport fairing, lower windscreen (higher touring screen optional) |
| Comfort & Touring Features | Electrified cases (27–33L), heated seats/grips, 10.25” TFT, smartphone compartment, cruise control (with braking), optional comfort passenger package, optional adaptive headlights, premium audio | Electrified cases (26/29L), optional heated seats/grips, 6.5” TFT, onboard USB, optional comfort/touring accessories, optional adaptive cornering light |
| Intended Use | Long-distance touring, maximum comfort with two-up capability | Sport touring, dynamic solo riding, agile handling, lighter touring capability |
| Acceleration (0–100 km/h) | 3.6 sec | 3.2 sec |
Maintenance is classic BMW boxer fare: oil changes and inspections every 6,000 miles / 10,000 km, with valve checks every 12,000 miles / 20,000 km. The shaft drive keeps things low fuss, and most service points are designed for easy access once the fairings are removed.
The BMW R 1300 RT is a true all-rounder for the real-world rider. It’s a bike built for crossing continents in style, but it’s just as happy carving up your favourite local road on a Sunday morning. If you want a tourer that does it all—and does it with real character—the R 1300 RT is still the one to beat.
Reference — Screenshots from the Manual for the BMW R 1300 RT
Below is a selection of screenshots of the maintenance schedule for the BMW R 1300 RT 2026. You can download the complete manual from BMW’s website directly here.
