BMW R 1200 RS 2015 vs. BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 and the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 are both sport touring motorcycles with similar technical specifications. They both have a Boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. The engine power and torque are also the same at 125 HP and 125 Nm respectively. They both have a 4-Stroke, 1170 ccm engine and a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the R 1200 RS has a telescopic fork front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension. On the other hand, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm rear suspension.

Both motorcycles have a steel frame, but the R 1200 RS has a load-bearing engine frame type while the R 1200 GS Adventure has a twin tube, load-bearing engine frame type.

The braking system is the same for both motorcycles, with double disk brakes at the front.

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

In terms of dimensions and weights, there are some differences. The front tyre width is the same at 120 mm, but the R 1200 GS Adventure has a larger front tyre diameter of 19 inches compared to the 17 inches of the R 1200 RS. The rear tyre width is also different, with the R 1200 RS having a width of 180 mm and the R 1200 GS Adventure having a width of 170 mm. The rear tyre diameter is the same for both at 17 inches. The wheelbase of the R 1200 RS is 1530 mm while the R 1200 GS Adventure has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1510 mm.

The seat height is higher for the R 1200 GS Adventure at 910 mm compared to the 820 mm of the R 1200 RS. The kerb weight with ABS is also higher for the R 1200 GS Adventure at 260 kg compared to the 236 kg of the R 1200 RS.

One major difference between the two motorcycles is the fuel tank capacity. The R 1200 RS has a fuel tank capacity of 18 litres, while the R 1200 GS Adventure has a much larger fuel tank capacity of 30 litres.

In terms of strengths, the R 1200 RS has an agile and high-revving boxer engine with a cool, muffled sound. It also has a good adjustable windshield and a comfortable seating position suitable for touring. The chassis is stable and it comes with ABS and traction control as standard. It also has selectable riding modes and a front-end look in the style of the S 1000 RR superbike. Additionally, it has an extensive list of accessories available.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

On the other hand, the R 1200 GS Adventure has a powerful engine and is relatively easy to ride. It also has a large 30 litre fuel tank and excellent ergonomics. The brakes are stable and reliable.

In terms of weaknesses, the R 1200 RS has a poorly readable speedometer and rev counter, and many features come at an extra cost.

The R 1200 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a high weight and a high price.

Overall, both motorcycles have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use. The R 1200 RS may be more suitable for those looking for a sportier touring experience, while the R 1200 GS Adventure may be better for those seeking more off-road capabilities and long-distance touring with its larger fuel tank.