With One Big Tweak, BMW Just Made an Already Awesome Motorcycle Much Faster

A shape-changing component gives the 2026 R 1300 RS a huge top speed edge over its naked brother.

Published May 1, 2025

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Munich’s motoring mecca had two-wheeled fans drooling just a couple weeks ago with the announcement of the 2026 R 1300 R, a rad-looking roadster offering power beyond its price.

Now BMW is doubling down with two similarly platformed bikes, the R 1300 RS and R 1300 RT, which significantly expand the possibilities.

2026 bmw r 1300 rs sunset — The R 1300 RS’s fairing helps it hit a top speed that’s 28 mph faster than that reached by the naked R 1300 R.

While the latter is a dedicated touring bike with a notably heftier price tag, the former is a sport touring model that costs just a bit more than R 1300 R while significantly amping up the performance.

How much difference can a fairing and a few other small changes really make? Turns out, a heckuva lot.

Aero advantage

As you might have gathered from the names alone, the R and RS are more similar than they are different. However, small details can have a big impact on the road.

In this case, the R 1300 RS’s fairing not only provides major wind protection but also dramatically optimizes aerodynamics.

The 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled Boxer engine makes 145 hp and 109.9 lb-ft. of torque — and takes you from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds.

The result is a claimed top speed of 152 mph, a whopping 28 mph (or nearly 23%) more than the already fast R’s claimed “over 124 mph.”

This uptick is certainly not jeopardized by the bike’s flatter bars, which encourage a more engaged, forward-leaning riding position.

The RS also has a slightly higher standard seat. At 31.1 inches, it’s 0.2 inches taller than the naked bike.

2026 bmw r 1300 rs action — Flatter handlebars and a slightly higher seat help you tuck behind the fairing for greater aerodynamics.

To live up to the “touring” half of its designation, the bike can be outfitted with storage accessories including a tank bag, side cases and a top case.

To keep your devices powered up for the long haul, the left case and top case both support USB-C charging.

Same old (super) power

Beyond those differences, plus a starting price that is (just) $400 more, the R 1300 RS is strikingly similar to the R. That’s not a bad thing.

After all, that means it boasts the 1,300cc air/liquid-cooled Boxer engine, an absolute beast that makes 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 109.9 lb-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm — and takes you from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds.

2026 bmw r 1300 rs black — Though less hyped than some other variants, the Triple Black edition might be the best-looking of the bunch.

Leaning into a rising trend, the bike will be available with your choice of a manual clutch lever to move through the six-speed gearbox or BMW’s Automatic Shift Assistant.

Safety-boosting standard features include generous suspension courtesy of a 47mm inverted fork up front and an Evo Paralever II system in back, Fully Integral ABS Pro (aka linked brakes) and Dynamic Traction Control.

The bike also features full LED lighting, a 6.5-inch TFT display, a 12-volt socket and a USB-C port.

2026 bmw r 1300 rs beach — Not to be outdone, the Light White performance option offers a sportier suspension and more ground clearance.

The new R 1300 RS will come in four variants, each with its own distinct paint job and features. The base model is Racing Blue (shown below), then there’s Triple Black, which adds an engine spoiler and dark chrome-plated exhaust.

The Light White performance option includes a sport suspension, 0.4 inches more ground clearance and various aesthetic touches, while the Option 719 Cuyamaca, in Brooklyn Grey Metallic, packs a painted seat insert and a range of custom Option 719 accessories.

Availability and pricing

The 2026 BMW R 1300 RS is expected to hit dealerships in late summer or early fall at a starting price of $16,995.

2026 BMW R 1300 RS

$16,995 at BMW Motorcycles

About the Author:

Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone’s bike seat is at the proper height.