BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 vs. BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2013

The BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2013 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles, but they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the F 850 GS Adventure features an in-line engine with a bore of 84 mm and a stroke of 77 mm. It produces 95 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. The transmission is chain-driven, and it has a displacement of 853 ccm. On the other hand, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. It delivers a higher power output of 125 HP and torque of 125 Nm. The transmission is a prop shaft, and it has a displacement of 1170 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the F 850 GS Adventure has an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension at the rear. The R 1200 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm suspension at the rear. Both motorcycles have a steel frame, with the F 850 GS Adventure having a tubular, load-bearing engine frame, and the R 1200 GS Adventure having a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the F 850 GS Adventure offers ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire technology. The R 1200 GS Adventure, however, only has riding modes as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 850 GS Adventure has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1593 mm and a seat height of 875 mm. The kerb weight of the F 850 GS Adventure, including ABS, is 244 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1510 mm and a higher seat height of 910 mm. The kerb weight of the R 1200 GS Adventure, including ABS, is 260 kg, and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2013

In terms of strengths, the F 850 GS Adventure is praised for its silky-smooth engine, top ergonomics and comfort, and its suitability for both touring and off-road riding. It is also considered to be technically very mature. On the other hand, the R 1200 GS Adventure is commended for being easy to ride, having a larger 33-litre fuel tank, excellent ergonomics, and reliable brakes.

As for weaknesses, the F 850 GS Adventure is criticized for its high price when equipped with additional features, a lack of emotional appeal from its engine, the non-adjustable fork, and its relatively high weight. On the other hand, no specific weaknesses are mentioned for the R 1200 GS Adventure.

In conclusion, both the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2013 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The F 850 GS Adventure offers a more modern and technically advanced package, while the R 1200 GS Adventure is praised for its ease of use and larger fuel tank capacity. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.