BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both popular sport touring motorcycles from BMW. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the S 1000 XR is equipped with an in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc, producing 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a boxer twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The S 1000 XR's engine is known for its rev-happy nature and broad usable rev band, while the R 1250 GS offers an extremely high-torque engine with a good sound.

In terms of suspension, the S 1000 XR is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is electronically adjustable and offers compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, features a telelever front suspension with a 37mm diameter and a single swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension offers preload and rebound adjustments. Both motorcycles have aluminum components in their suspension systems.

In terms of chassis, the S 1000 XR features an aluminum frame with a twin-tube design that also acts as a load-bearing engine. It has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 116mm. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a steel frame that also acts as a load-bearing engine. It has a slightly smaller rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disc brakes at the front. The S 1000 XR has larger 320mm diameter discs, while the R 1250 GS has slightly smaller 305mm diameter discs. Both motorcycles feature radial brake technology, providing stable braking performance.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the S 1000 XR offers a range of features including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, offers ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the S 1000 XR has a wheelbase of 1552mm and a seat height of 840mm. It weighs 226kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The R 1250 GS has a slightly smaller wheelbase of 1525mm and a slightly higher seat height of 850mm. It weighs 249kg (with ABS) and also has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights and an adjustable windscreen. The S 1000 XR also features LED daytime running lights and a TFT display, while the R 1250 GS offers a color TFT display as standard.

In terms of strengths, the S 1000 XR is praised for its riding modes that allow for practical use, its rev-happy four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band, its well-balanced vehicle dynamics, and its good brakes. The R 1250 GS is praised for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, and standard color TFT display and LED headlights.

In terms of weaknesses, the S 1000 XR is criticized for having a narrow knee angle on long tours for tall people, suspension damping that is not sensitive enough, and high fuel consumption. The R 1250 GS is criticized for its manageable standard equipment and a jagged appearance with little elegance.

Overall, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both capable sport touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The S 1000 XR offers a more sporty and agile riding experience with its four-cylinder engine and electronic chassis, while the R 1250 GS provides a more relaxed and comfortable riding experience with its high-torque boxer engine and comfortable seating position.