BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and long-distance comfort.

In terms of engine power, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 comes out on top with 165 HP compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021's 119 HP. The BMW also has higher torque at 114 Nm compared to the Yamaha's 93 Nm. Both bikes have in-line engines with four strokes, but the BMW has four cylinders while the Yamaha has three. The BMW has a larger displacement at 999 ccm compared to the Yamaha's 890 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and monoshock absorbers in the rear. The BMW has a slightly longer travel at 150 mm compared to the Yamaha's 130 mm in the front, and 150 mm compared to the Yamaha's 137 mm in the rear. Both bikes offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, both bikes have aluminum frames, but the BMW's frame is a twin tube load-bearing engine design while the Yamaha's frame is a twin tube design.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

Both bikes have double disk brakes in the front, but the BMW has larger diameter disks at 320 mm compared to the Yamaha's 298 mm.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS, suspension electronically adjustable, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Yamaha also has additional features such as a quickshifter and anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW has a slightly wider front tire at 120 mm compared to the Yamaha's 120 mm, and a wider rear tire at 190 mm compared to the Yamaha's 180 mm. Both bikes have 17-inch front and rear tire diameters. The BMW has a longer wheelbase at 1552 mm compared to the Yamaha's 1500 mm. The seat height is higher on the BMW at 840 mm compared to the Yamaha's 810 mm. The BMW also has a slightly higher kerb weight at 226 kg compared to the Yamaha's 220 kg. Both bikes have similar fuel tank capacities, with the BMW at 20 liters and the Yamaha at 19 liters.

In terms of equipment, both bikes offer LED headlights and TFT displays. The BMW also has LED daytime running lights and an adjustable windscreen. The Yamaha offers additional features such as heated grips, a case system, cornering lights, and a windscreen that is adjustable.

In terms of strengths, the BMW offers a great connection and integration from mobile phone to vehicle, including good navigation software. It has a great revving four-cylinder engine with a wide usable rev band and pleasant engine tuning. The riding modes change the response behavior in a practical way, and the electronic chassis with automatic detection of load condition provides a well-balanced ride, even with a pillion passenger. The BMW also has good brakes and wind and weather protection, with a windshield that is adjustable with one hand. It also offers a good quickshifter and plenty of choices in terms of customization.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has strengths such as a great standard equipment package in the GT variant, a powerful engine with great tuning, and easy handling. It offers a stable ride and a comprehensive electronics package, including an e-chassis. The Yamaha also provides good wind protection and pillion comfort, as well as a long range.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW has a slightly narrow knee angle on long tours, which may be uncomfortable for taller riders. The suspension damping is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to achieve a truly comfortable setup.

The Yamaha has a poorly readable and illogical display, and it produces stationary noise above 95 dB, which may be an issue for some riders. The clutch can be somewhat rough, and the responsiveness may be moderate.

Overall, both the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 offer a combination of sporty performance and touring comfort. The BMW has a more powerful engine and a wider range of customization options, while the Yamaha offers a great standard equipment package and easy handling. Riders should consider their specific preferences and priorities when choosing between these two models.