BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of performance and comfort for long-distance rides.

In terms of engine and power, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 comes with an inline-four engine that produces 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 features an inline-three engine with 119 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque. The BMW S 1000 XR has a larger displacement of 999cc compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 890cc. This means that the BMW S 1000 XR offers more power and torque, which can result in better acceleration and top speed.

Both motorcycles feature a telescopic fork suspension at the front and a monoshock suspension at the rear. However, the BMW S 1000 XR has a longer travel of 150mm for both the front and rear suspension, compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 130mm front travel and 137mm rear travel. The BMW S 1000 XR also offers more adjustment options for the suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. This allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their preferences and riding conditions.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have an aluminum frame with a double tube design. This provides a balance between rigidity and weight reduction for better handling and stability. The BMW S 1000 XR has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1552mm compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 1500mm. A longer wheelbase can contribute to better stability at high speeds.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

Both motorcycles come with dual-disc front brakes, but the BMW S 1000 XR has larger 320mm diameter discs compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 298mm discs. This can result in better braking performance and shorter stopping distances.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS, electronic suspension adjustment, traction control, and ride-by-wire throttle. The BMW S 1000 XR also features additional systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, cornering ABS, and multiple riding modes. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, on the other hand, offers features like quick shifter, anti-wheelie control, and curve lights.

In terms of dimensions and weight, the BMW S 1000 XR has a wider front tire of 120mm compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 120mm. However, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT has a wider rear tire of 180mm compared to the BMW S 1000 XR's 190mm. The seat height of the BMW S 1000 XR is higher at 840mm compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 810mm. Both motorcycles have a similar fuel tank capacity, with the BMW S 1000 XR having 20 liters and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT having 19 liters.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT offers additional features like heated grips, cornering lights, and a system processor.

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR offers excellent integration with mobile devices, a powerful four-cylinder engine with a wide usable range, practical riding modes, a well-balanced chassis, good brakes, and good wind protection. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT offers a variant with excellent standard equipment, a powerful and well-tuned engine, easy handling, stable riding, comprehensive electronic package, good wind protection, and comfort for the passenger.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 XR has a narrow knee angle for tall riders during long trips and the suspension damping is not sensitive enough for a truly comfortable setup. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT has a less legible and illogical display, high noise level at idle, somewhat rough clutch, and moderate responsiveness.

Overall, both the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 are capable sport touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. Riders should consider their specific preferences and priorities to choose the one that best suits their needs.