BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2020

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles from BMW, but they have some key differences in their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 features an in-line, four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc. It produces 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a chain transmission. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 150mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 150mm. The chassis is made of aluminum and has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame. The front brakes are double disks with a diameter of 320mm and radial technology.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features 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 chassis is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine frame. The front brakes are double disks with a diameter of 305mm and radial technology.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 features electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has a wheelbase of 1552mm, a seat height of 840mm, and a kerb weight of 226kg (with ABS). It has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The front and rear tires have widths of 120mm and 190mm, respectively, with diameters of 17 inches. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a wheelbase of 1525mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a kerb weight of 249kg (with ABS). It also has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The front tire has a width of 120mm and a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170mm and a diameter of 17 inches.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights and adjustable windscreens. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 also features LED daytime running lights and a TFT display.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

Now let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has strengths such as the ability to change riding modes to suit different conditions, a powerful four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band, a well-balanced vehicle even with a pillion passenger thanks to the electronic chassis, and good brakes. However, it has weaknesses such as a narrow knee angle on long tours for tall people, suspension damping that is not sensitive enough for a comfortable setup, and high fuel consumption.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has strengths such as an extremely high-torque boxer engine, a good sound, a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, a standard color TFT display, and LED headlights. However, it has the weaknesses of having manageable standard equipment and a jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 are both impressive sport touring motorcycles from BMW. They have different engine configurations, suspension setups, and strengths. The S 1000 XR offers a rev-happy four-cylinder engine and a well-balanced chassis, while the R 1250 GS offers an extremely high-torque boxer engine and a comfortable seating position. Both motorcycles have their own unique set of strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.