BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 are both sport touring motorcycles from BMW, but they have some key differences in their specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has an in-line, 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 999cc. It produces 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. The engine is started electrically and power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a chain. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a boxer, 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is also started electrically, but power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a prop shaft.

In terms of suspension, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 150mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 150mm. The chassis is made of aluminum and has a twin tube, load-bearing engine frame. The bike has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 116mm. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 320mm and radial technology. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The front tire has a width of 120mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 190mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1552mm and the seat height is 840mm. The bike weighs 226kg with ABS and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. It is equipped with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The chassis is made of steel and also has a load-bearing engine frame. The bike has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 305mm and radial technology. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. The front tire has a width of 120mm and a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1504mm and the seat height is 890mm. The bike weighs 268kg with ABS and has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. It is equipped with LED headlights and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a great connection and integration from mobile phone to vehicle, including good navigation software. It also 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 the load condition provides a well-balanced ride, even with a pillion passenger. The bike also has good brakes, wind and weather protection, and a windshield that is adjustable with one hand. Additionally, it has a good quickshifter and plenty of choices in equipment.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 offers great ride comfort and an extreme range. It has good ergonomics and excellent weather protection. The bike also has bulbous torque and clean response, making it generally easy to ride due to its low center of gravity. It also offers customization options.

However, both bikes have some weaknesses. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a knee angle on long tours that may be a bit narrow for tall people and the suspension damping is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to find a really comfortable setup. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a high weight that is noticeable in the braking zone and a high price.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 are both excellent sport touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The S 1000 XR offers a powerful engine and advanced rider assistance systems, while the R 1250 GS Adventure provides great ride comfort and a larger fuel tank capacity for extended adventures. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.