BMW F 850 GS 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2021

The BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and specifications.

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 engine power and 92 Nm of torque. The starter is electric, and the transmission is a chain. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It offers a more powerful engine with 136 HP of engine power and 143 Nm of torque. The starter is also electric, but the transmission is a prop shaft.

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 at the front. At the rear, it has a swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 219 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. Like the F 850 GS, the suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

Both motorcycles have a steel frame, but the F 850 GS has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type, while the R 1250 GS has a load-bearing engine frame type. The rake angle is the same for both motorcycles at 62 degrees, but the trail is different, with the F 850 GS having a trail of 126 mm and the R 1250 GS having a trail of 109 mm.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front.

When it comes to advanced rider assistance systems, the R 1250 GS offers more features compared to the F 850 GS. The R 1250 GS includes ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The F 850 GS only has ABS.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 850 GS has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1593 mm, and the seat height is 860 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 229 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 15 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is slightly shorter at 1525 mm, and the seat height is slightly lower at 850 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is higher at 249 kg, but it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

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 offers great ride comfort and great ergonomics. It has a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, and a confident feel in the saddle. It also has practical riding aids and a versatile chassis that accommodates every route.

In terms of weaknesses, the F 850 GS has vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that is too lax. The fork is not adjustable, and it has a ponderous feel. The front brake could also do with more bite. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a rough overall appearance and gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy.

Overall, both the BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The F 850 GS offers a more accessible and practical riding experience, while the R 1250 GS offers more power and advanced rider assistance systems. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.