Sun Coast Cycle Sports stocks inspected used parts for the 2001-2005 BMW R1150RT, the Oilhead-generation touring flagship with the upgraded 1130cc dual-spark engine and 6-speed gearbox. The R1150RT refined the R1100RT's touring excellence with more power (95 hp), the overdrive 6th gear that R1100RT owners had requested, improved cold starting from dual spark ignition, and Integral ABS with servo-assisted braking. Widely used by law enforcement agencies worldwide, the R1150RT remains a capable and affordable touring motorcycle. Parts from our R1150RT donors are pulled at our Odessa, Florida shop, inspected and photographed under unique SKUs, and shipped free within the lower 48.
R1150RT generation and parts compatibility
| Years | Engine | Power | Key Features |
|---|
| 2001-2005 | 1130cc Oilhead boxer, dual spark, 6-speed | 95 hp | Full touring fairing, electric screen, iABS with servo, heated grips, panniers |
The R1150RT shares its higher-compression (95 hp) engine with the R1150RS. All engine internals interchange between the two. The R1150GS and R1150R use lower-compression internals (85 hp), but gearbox, clutch, and bottom-end components still interchange across all R1150 models.
The R1150RT uses Integral ABS (iABS) with servo-assisted brakes throughout its entire production. This is the most significant difference from the R1100RT, which used the simpler, more reliable ABS II system. The iABS system provides excellent stopping power when functioning properly but is expensive to repair when the module fails. This is the single most important consideration when evaluating an R1150RT purchase.
The R1150RT's touring bodywork (full fairing, electrically adjustable screen, panniers, top case mounting) is model-specific and does not interchange with other R1150 models. The R1100RT and R1150RT share many body panel dimensions, and some fairing components may interchange between the two, though the iABS vs ABS II distinction means brake components are NOT cross-compatible.
The R1150RT was widely adopted by police agencies. The RT-P police variant features crash bars, additional lighting, a siren, and an upgraded alternator. These police-specific accessories are sometimes sought by civilian owners for added protection and electrical capacity.
Common R1150RT failure points and replacement parts
Integral ABS (iABS) servo module failure: The iABS system is the R1150RT's most significant known issue. Module failure can present as ABS warning light flashing, loss of power assist, jerky braking, or in extreme cases, brake lockup. Repair costs at BMW dealers range from $2,000-5,700. Third-party rebuild services (ModuleMasters and others) offer significantly lower-cost alternatives. Non-ABS conversion kits are also available. Regular brake fluid changes and keeping the battery fully charged reduce iABS fault frequency.
Battery health and iABS interaction: The iABS system is sensitive to battery voltage. A weak or aging battery can trigger iABS fault codes and warning lights even when the module itself is functional. Many R1150RT "ABS failures" are actually resolved by replacing the battery with a high-quality gel or AGM unit. Always verify battery health before condemning the iABS module.
Fuel surging: Oilhead surging at part-throttle. Techlusion fuel controller is the standard fix.
Clutch slave cylinder: Same Oilhead clutch concern. The RT's touring loads (two-up, full luggage) place additional stress on the clutch system.
Electrically adjustable windscreen motor: Same screen motor wear concern as the R1100RT. Periodic track cleaning and lubrication extends motor life.
Final drive spline wear: Critical on the RT due to sustained heavy touring loads. Diligent spline lubrication prevents expensive failure.
Commonly replaced R1150RT parts
- iABS module (rebuild or non-ABS conversion)
- Battery (high-quality AGM or gel recommended)
- Techlusion fuel controller
- Clutch slave cylinder
- Windscreen motor and track
- Final drive spline service
- Pannier latches and hinges
- Heated grip elements
- Stick coils (dual spark)
Frequently asked questions
Q: Should I buy an R1100RT or R1150RT?
The choice often comes down to the ABS system. The R1100RT's ABS II is simpler, cheaper to maintain, and rarely fails catastrophically. The R1150RT's iABS provides superior stopping power when working but is expensive when it fails. The R1150RT offers a 6-speed gearbox (useful overdrive 6th), more power (95 hp vs 90 hp), and better cold starting (dual spark). Many experienced BMW touring riders specifically seek the R1100RT for its long-term reliability and lower maintenance cost despite the older technology.
Q: Does the R1150RT share engine parts with other R1150 models?
Yes. The RT shares its 95 hp higher-compression engine with the R1150RS. All engine internals interchange. The R1150GS and R1150R use lower-compression (85 hp) variants of the same engine; bottom-end components (gearbox, clutch, crankshaft) interchange across all R1150 models.
Q: Is the R1150RT compatible with the R1200RT?
No. The R1150RT (Oilhead, 2001-2005) and R1200RT (Hexhead, 2005+) use completely different engines, frames, and electronics. No parts interchange between the two. They are separate generations of BMW's touring platform.
Inspected by Powersports Technicians • Only One in Stock • Ships Fast from Florida
