Motorcycle specifications BMWR 850 RT 2004 The ambitious little sister

the previous generation of 850/1100 RTs played more on the art of differences, especially in terms of equipment, to decide between the undecideds. Now, the choice will be much trickier. The R 850 RT is a carbon copy of its big sister, the 1150, with just 282 cm3 and heated grips as standard. This "little" grand tourer, apart from the fact that it can be bridged with 34 hp, now offers the same standard equipment as the 1150: panniers, 6-speed gearbox, electrically adjustable bubble, EVO brakes, ABS. With 22 hp less to carry 280 kg, you'll have to make do with the gearbox, which isn't exactly a model of pleasure.

the 6th gear, unusable except on freeways, is an undeniable plus on the long ribbon of asphalt. It's an overdrive that seriously lowers engine speed and fuel consumption. With its tighter gearing, the 850 gives up virtually nothing to the 1150 (as long as you don't touch the 6), and is much more fun to ride on secondary roads. Apart from the underbore, it's the same bike. So there are no surprises when it comes to dynamic behavior: it's all good fun. It clings to the road, erases imperfections and cares about your comfort. You take it into the bend, and it does the rest. You wind it up and it goes by itself, quickly and smoothly. The kilometers fly by, but only the fading sun and the ticking clock remind you. Fatigue has no hold on your body, thanks to the serenity and comfort of the BM. For €1,800 less, you get the same high standards as the 1150. You'll have to accept sacrificing 22 hp and almost 2 mkg, in favor of a more invigorating, less senatorial ride. But the essentials are preserved.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)