BMW F 850 GS 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2022

The BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities. However, there are some key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drive train, the F 850 GS has 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 R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a boxer engine with a larger bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It delivers a higher power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. Both models have electric starters, but the F 850 GS has a chain transmission while the R 1250 GS has a prop shaft transmission. The F 850 GS has two cylinders and a displacement of 853 ccm, while the R 1250 GS also has two cylinders but a larger displacement of 1254 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the F 850 GS has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 204 mm in the front, and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 219 mm in the rear. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm, and a single swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. Both models offer preload and rebound adjustment for the rear suspension.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of chassis, both models have a steel frame and a load-bearing engine. They have similar rake angles, with the F 850 GS having a rake of 62 degrees and the R 1250 GS having a slightly larger rake of 62.9 degrees. The trail measurement is also different, with the F 850 GS having a trail of 126 mm and the R 1250 GS having a smaller trail of 109 mm.

Both models have double disk front brakes, but the R 1250 GS offers additional advanced rider assistance systems compared to the F 850 GS. These include ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 850 GS has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches compared to the 19-inch front tire of the R 1250 GS. The rear tire width is also slightly larger for the R 1250 GS, with 170 mm compared to the 150 mm of the F 850 GS. The wheelbase is longer for the F 850 GS at 1593 mm compared to the 1525 mm of the R 1250 GS. The seat height is slightly higher for the F 850 GS at 860 mm compared to the 850 mm of the R 1250 GS. The kerb weight, including ABS, is also higher for the R 1250 GS at 249 kg compared to the 229 kg of the F 850 GS. The fuel tank capacity is larger for the R 1250 GS at 20 liters compared to the 15 liters of the F 850 GS.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the F 850 GS offers good wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, and very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. It also has good seat comfort and a great connectivity solution. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has an extremely torquey boxer engine, a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, a sophisticated operating concept, and great ergonomics. It also offers many customization options and great handling with strong confidence in the front, as well as easy driveability.

In terms of weaknesses, the F 850 GS has been reported to have vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that is too lax. The fork is also not adjustable, and some riders have reported a ponderous feel and a front brake that could do with more bite. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has been criticized for awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that is too lax, and brakes and suspension that are no longer on par with the strong competition.

Overall, both the BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 offer a range of features and capabilities for enduro motorcycle enthusiasts. The F 850 GS excels in everyday usability and comfort, while the R 1250 GS offers a more powerful engine and a range of advanced rider assistance systems. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's specific preferences and priorities.