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2023 BMW R 1250 R | First Look Review

2023 BMW R 1250 R in the Style Sport variant colorway

Building on the success of BMW’s naked boxer roadster history, which started with the 1923 494cc boxer-Twin powered R 32, BMW Motorrad is introducing the updated 2023 BMW R 1250 R roadster.

While many things remain the same, including the 1,254cc 2-cylinder air/liquid-cooled boxer engine with ShiftCam technology delivering a claimed 136 hp and 105 ft-lbs of torque, BMW has made several upgrades to the 2023 model – and all for the same $14,995 MSRP as the 2022 model.

Related Story: 2020 BMW R 1250 R | Road Test Review

Several features that were previously options are now standard, including Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro (part integral), and Dynamic Brake Control. And joining the previous Road and Rain ride modes for 2023 is the “Eco” mode.

In Eco mode, the rider is encouraged to ride as fuel-efficiently as possible, with a soft throttle curve and moderate engine torque limitation. As part of these efforts, the TFT color display provides an efficiency display. However, if a rider wants maximum performance – for example, for overtaking or riding uphill – the ride mode button will switch to a different mode quickly and easily.

Other new features of the 2023 BMW R 1250 R include LED turn indicators, a solo seat rear cover, and new Option 719 spoke wheels (optional).

2023 BMW R 1250 R with new solo seat rear cover
2023 BMW R 1250 R with Comfort passenger seat

The 2023 model still features the full LED headlamp but now offers an optional adaptive turning light, which provides better illumination into turns thereby ensuring safer riding at night. The adaptive turning light works by switching on additional LED elements in the main headlight that are fitted with their own reflectors, depending on the lean angle. It is activated from an inclined position of 7 degrees to 25 degrees and a speed of more than 6 mph. New standard features also include redesigned LED Comfort turn.

Consistent with 2022, a slip/assist clutch, Hill Start Control, BMW Motorrad Paralever front suspension with an inverted 45mm fork, and rear spring/shock with preload and rebound adjustment and travel-dependent damping (WAD) are all still standard.

The optional Premium Package includes Keyless Ride, a Design Option rear muffler, a chrome-plated exhaust manifold, heated grips, TPM Tire Pressure Monitor, and cruise control. There are multiple Option 719 Billet Packs available, as well as numerous individual options.

The 2023 BMW R 1250 R starts at $14,995. In standard trim, the R 1250 R is finished in Ice Grey non-metallic in conjunction with a black frame. With the optional Triple Black and Style Sport variants, the owner can choose from two expressive color combinations.

2023 BMW R 1250 R in the Ice Grey non-metallic standard colorway

The Style Sport variant (see story’s lead photo) features a body color in Racing Blue Metallic, white frame, gold front/rear brake calipers, black sports handlebars, blue front spoiler, and solo seat rear cover or passenger seat.

The Triple Black variant has a Black Storm Metallic body color, Agate Grey frame, gold front/rear brake calipers, stainless steel radiator grille, stainless steel engine spoiler, Pure tank trim, and solo seat rear cover or passenger seat.

2023 BMW R 1250 R in the Triple Black variant colorway

More information is available on the BMW Motorcycles website.

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