BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2017

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 are both sport touring motorcycles produced by BMW. While they have some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have distinct differences.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 features an in-line, 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 999cc. It has a bore of 80mm and a stroke of 49.7mm, producing an engine power of 165 HP and a torque of 114 Nm. The transmission is chain-driven, and it has 4 cylinders. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a boxer engine with a displacement of 1170cc. It has a bore of 101mm and a stroke of 73mm, generating an engine power of 125 HP and a torque of 125 Nm. The transmission is through a prop shaft, and it has 2 cylinders.

In terms of suspension, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm at the rear. Both the front and rear suspensions have adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm rear suspension. The front suspension has preload adjustment.

The chassis of the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 is made of aluminum and has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine design. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017, on the other hand, has a steel frame with a twin-tube, load-bearing engine design.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a front tire 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 BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a front tire width of 120mm and a diameter of 19 inches, with the rear tire having a width of 170mm and a diameter of 17 inches.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a wheelbase of 1552mm and a seat height of 840mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 226kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1507mm and a slightly higher seat height of 850mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 238kg, and the fuel tank capacity is also 20 liters.

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has several strengths, including a great connection and integration from a mobile phone to the 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 allow for a practical change in response behavior, and the electronic chassis with automatic detection of load condition ensures a well-balanced ride, even with a pillion passenger. The motorcycle also has good brakes, wind and weather protection, and an adjustable windshield. Additionally, it has a good quickshifter and offers plenty of choices in terms of customization.

BMW R 1200 GS 2017

However, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 does have some weaknesses. The knee angle on long tours may be a bit narrow for tall people, and the suspension damping is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to achieve a truly comfortable setup.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has its own strengths. It is considered a mature concept with a strong engine and easy handling. The motorcycle also has powerful brakes, adjustable modes, and traction control. It offers an extensive equipment range and has a good image and value retention.

However, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 also has some weaknesses. Many features come at an extra cost, and the boxer engine may be exposed in really tough terrain.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The S 1000 XR offers a more powerful engine and advanced features, while the R 1200 GS provides a mature concept and easy handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.