BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2022

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both sport touring motorcycles from BMW, but they have distinct differences in their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the BMW S 1000 XR 2020, it is equipped with a powerful in-line, 4-cylinder engine that produces 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. The engine is known for its wide usable rev band and pleasant tuning. The bike features a chain transmission and has a displacement of 999cc. It has a well-balanced chassis with an aluminum frame and a front suspension consisting of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 150mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and offers adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. The bike has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1552mm and a seat height of 840mm. The bike weighs 226kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 is an enduro motorcycle with a 2-cylinder engine that produces 95 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. The engine has a displacement of 853cc and is known for its accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. Similar to the S 1000 XR, it has a chain transmission. The bike features a steel frame and a front suspension consisting of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 204mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and offers adjustable preload and rebound. The front tire has a width of 90mm and a diameter of 21 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 150mm and a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1593mm and a seat height of 860mm. The bike weighs 229kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 15 liters. The BMW F 850 GS 2022 comes with ABS as its advanced rider assistance system.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 offers great connectivity with mobile phones, including good navigation software. It has a revving four-cylinder engine with a wide usable rev band and pleasant tuning. The riding modes allow for practical changes in response behavior. The bike has a well-balanced chassis, even with a pillion passenger, thanks to the electronic chassis with automatic load condition detection. It also has good brakes, wind, and weather protection, and an adjustable windshield. The quickshifter is smooth, and there are plenty of choices in terms of customization.

On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 offers good wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, and practical equipment. It has very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use and provides good seat comfort. The bike also has a great connectivity solution.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a narrow knee angle on long tours, which may be uncomfortable for tall riders. The suspension damping is not sensitive enough, making it challenging to achieve a truly comfortable setup.

The BMW F 850 GS 2022 experiences vibrations in the upper rev range and has a somewhat boring engine. The quickshifter gearstick is stiff, and the front damping is too lax, with the fork being non-adjustable. The bike also has a ponderous feel, and the front brake could benefit from more bite.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both capable sport touring motorcycles, but they have distinct differences in their technical specifications and strengths. The S 1000 XR offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and a well-balanced chassis, while the F 850 GS provides good wind and weather protection, accessible operation, and practical equipment. However, both bikes have their weaknesses, such as comfort issues with the S 1000 XR and vibrations and stiffness with the F 850 GS.