BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs. Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 has an in-line engine. The BMW has a larger bore and stroke, resulting in a displacement of 1254cc, compared to the Triumph's 1160cc. The Triumph, however, boasts a higher engine power of 150 HP, while the BMW offers 136 HP. The torque is also higher in the BMW with 143 Nm compared to the Triumph's 130 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and use a prop shaft for transmission.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features 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. The suspension on the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 49 mm and a travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for preload and rebound.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have steel frames. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a load-bearing engine frame, while the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 has a tubular frame. The rake and trail are slightly different, with the BMW having a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm, while the Triumph has a rake of 65.9 degrees and a trail of 120 mm.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 offers additional advanced rider assistance systems including hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, collision warning, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, blind spot assist, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 19 inches. The BMW has a rear tire width of 170 mm and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, while the Triumph has a rear tire width of 150 mm and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer in the Triumph with 1560 mm compared to the BMW's 1525 mm. Both motorcycles have a seat height of 850 mm, which can be adjusted up to 870 mm. The kerb weight of the BMW with ABS is 249 kg, while the Triumph weighs slightly more at 255 kg. The fuel tank capacity is larger in the Triumph with 30 liters compared to the BMW's 20 liters.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer LED headlights and adjustable windscreens. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 has additional features such as Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and a larger fuel tank capacity.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has an extremely high-torque boxer engine, a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, a color TFT display as standard, and LED headlights. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 has a powerful engine, a high-quality electronics package, a semi-active chassis that regulates finely, extensive standard equipment, long-distance comfort, excellent wind and weather protection, agility, and a better model spread between on- and off-road capabilities compared to its predecessor.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list, as well as a jagged appearance with little elegance. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 has minor load change reactions on Explorer models, the blind spot assist is not available on Pro models, and the high pillion seat restricts freedom of movement for sporty off-roading.