Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2022

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer features an in-line, 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160cc. It produces 150 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque, providing ample power for both on-road and off-road adventures. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is equipped with a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces slightly less power at 136 horsepower, but has a higher torque output of 143 Nm. This makes the BMW R 1250 GS extremely torquey and responsive, especially at low revs.

In terms of suspension, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer features an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 49mm and a travel of 200mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is equipped with a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

Both motorcycles have steel frames, but the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a tubular frame while the BMW R 1250 GS has a load-bearing engine frame. The rake and trail measurements also differ, with the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer having a rake of 65.9 degrees and a trail of 120mm, while the BMW R 1250 GS has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes with an extensive list of advanced rider assistance systems, including hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, collision warning, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, blind spot assist, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS also comes with ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1560mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 850mm to 870mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 255kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. The BMW R 1250 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 850mm to 870mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is slightly lighter at 249kg, and it has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with a range of features to enhance the riding experience. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer includes Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The BMW R 1250 GS also features cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. Additionally, it offers great app integration, a sophisticated operating concept, and many customization options.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer excels in its powerful engine, high-quality electronics package, semi-active chassis, extensive standard equipment, long-distance comfort, excellent wind and weather protection, agility, and better model spread between on- and off-road compared to its predecessor. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS stands out with its extremely torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, sophisticated operating concept, great ergonomics, many customization options, and great handling with strong confidence in the front.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has minor load change reactions on Explorer models, the blind spot assist is not available on Pro models, and the high pillion seat restricts freedom of movement for sporty off-roading. The BMW R 1250 GS has some drawbacks as well, including awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that some may find too lax, and brakes and suspension that are not on par with the strong competition.

In conclusion, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Choosing between them ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether it be power, comfort, electronics, or off-road capabilities.