Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2022

The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 are both popular adventure touring motorcycles that offer a combination of on-road performance and off-road capabilities.

In terms of engine and drivetrain, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1262cc, producing 158 horsepower and 129.5 Nm of torque. It features an electric start and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is powered by a Boxer twin engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It also has an electric start but uses a shaft drive for transmission.

Both motorcycles have different suspension systems. The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour features a telescopic fork with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 170mm for the front suspension. The rear suspension consists of a single swingarm with a monoshock and a travel of 170mm. In comparison, the BMW R 1250 GS has a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is also a single swingarm with a monoshock, offering a travel of 200mm.

Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour 2020

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour has a tubular frame, while the BMW R 1250 GS has a load-bearing engine frame. The Ducati has a rake angle of 65 degrees and a trail of 111mm, while the BMW has a rake angle of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front. The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, dynamic suspension, cruise control, quick shifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The BMW R 1250 GS also features ABS, traction control, hill start assist, riding modes, ABS for curves, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour has a front tire diameter of 17 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The front tire width is not specified, while the rear tire width is 190mm. It has a wheelbase of 1585mm and a seat height ranging from 825mm to 845mm. The curb weight, including ABS, is 235kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The front tire width is not specified, while the rear tire width is 170mm. It has a wheelbase of 1525mm and a seat height ranging from 850mm to 870mm. The curb weight, including ABS, is 249kg, and it also has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

Both motorcycles come with additional equipment such as cornering lights and LED headlights. The BMW R 1250 GS also features an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour offers a powerful and fun-to-ride engine, excellent electronic assistance systems, and a version specifically designed for touring. It also has a surprisingly easy handling, even for smaller riders, and is considered one of the most beautiful touring enduros. It also comes with a 4-year warranty. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is praised for its extreme torque, comfortable riding position, sophisticated operating concept, great ergonomics, customization options, and excellent front-end confidence and handling. It is also known for its easy riding experience.

In terms of weaknesses, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour could benefit from a slightly more pronounced windscreen, and its 20-liter fuel tank capacity may be tight for a touring enduro. It also requires additional expenses for full equipment. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS has been criticized for its clunky gear changes at low revs, loose seat, and brakes and suspension that are not up to the level of strong competition.

Overall, both the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 are capable adventure touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences, priorities, and riding style.