BMW F 900 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 RS 2021

The BMW F 900 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 RS 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles from BMW. While they share some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, the BMW F 900 XR 2020 features an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 895cc, producing 105 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 RS 2021 is equipped with a boxer twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It has a shaft drive transmission and a 4-stroke engine. The R 1250 RS has a more powerful engine compared to the F 900 XR.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature a telescopic fork front suspension. However, the F 900 XR has a longer travel of 170mm compared to the R 1250 RS with 140mm of travel. For the rear suspension, both bikes have a monoshock, but the F 900 XR has a slightly longer travel of 172mm compared to the R 1250 RS with 140mm of travel. Both bikes offer pre-load and rebound adjustment for the rear suspension.

BMW F 900 XR 2020

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. The F 900 XR has a double-tube frame with the engine as a load-bearing element, while the R 1250 RS has a frame that supports the engine. Both bikes have dual disc front brakes with a diameter of 320mm and radial technology. This provides excellent braking performance for both models.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, and riding modes. The F 900 XR also features LED headlights, a TFT screen, and an adjustable windscreen. The R 1250 RS, on the other hand, only comes with LED headlights as standard equipment.

In terms of dimensions and weight, the F 900 XR has a narrower front tire width of 120mm compared to the R 1250 RS with the same width. Both bikes have a 17-inch front and rear tire diameter. The F 900 XR has a shorter wheelbase of 1518mm compared to the R 1250 RS with 1530mm. The seat height is slightly higher on the R 1250 RS at 820mm compared to 815mm on the F 900 XR. The weight of the F 900 XR is 211kg (with ABS) while the R 1250 RS is heavier at 243kg (with ABS). Additionally, the R 1250 RS has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18 liters compared to the F 900 XR with 15.5 liters.

BMW R 1250 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the F 900 XR is praised for its powerful and robust engine, variable ergonomics, sufficient wind protection, excellent Brembo brakes, elegant appearance, and a wide range of accessories. On the other hand, the R 1250 RS is lauded for its high stability in long curves, agile and high-revving boxer engine, good looks, comfortable seating position, extensive list of accessories, and excellent ESA chassis.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The F 900 XR is criticized for its behavioral sound, while the R 1250 RS is noted for its high weight that is noticeable in tight curves, the windshield could be taller, many mandatory features come with additional costs, and it is considered a bit slow.

Overall, the BMW F 900 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 RS 2021 are both excellent sport touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.