BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2015

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 are both sport touring motorcycles, but they have some notable 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, producing 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. It is equipped with a chain transmission and has four strokes. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 has a boxer twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1170cc, delivering 125 horsepower and 125 Nm of torque. It uses a prop shaft for transmission and also has four strokes.

In terms of suspension, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front, which can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm, also adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The chassis of the S 1000 XR 2021 is made of aluminum and has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 features a strut front suspension, adjustable for preload, and a single swing arm rear suspension, also adjustable for preload. The chassis is made of steel and has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

In terms of braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 does not specify the type of brakes, while the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 also has double disk brakes at the front.

Moving on to dimensions and weights, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The rear tire width is 190 mm, also with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1552 mm and a seat height of 840 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 226 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 19 inches. The rear tire width is 170 mm, with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1507 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is slightly higher at 238 kg, and it also has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1200 GS 2015

Now let's compare the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has several strengths, including the ability to change riding modes to suit different conditions, a powerful and responsive four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band, a well-balanced vehicle even with a pillion passenger thanks to its electronic chassis with automatic load recognition, and good brakes. On the other hand, it has some weaknesses, such as a narrow knee angle on long tours for tall riders, suspension damping that is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to achieve a truly comfortable setup, and high fuel consumption.

As for the BMW R 1200 GS 2015, its strengths include a powerful engine, low fuel consumption, a comfortable seating position, the ability to be used off-road, and a high reputation. However, it also has some weaknesses, such as a long and expensive surcharge for additional features, a Telelever front suspension that takes some getting used to, and very sharp brakes.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 are both capable sport touring motorcycles, but they have distinct differences in their technical specifications and strengths. The S 1000 XR 2021 offers a more powerful engine and a more advanced suspension system, while the R 1200 GS 2015 is known for its off-road capabilities and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.