BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some notable differences.

Starting with the engines, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has an in-line engine. The BMW has a larger displacement of 1254cc compared to the Triumph's 1160cc. However, the Triumph has a higher horsepower of 150 HP compared to the BMW's 136 HP. The BMW has a higher torque of 143 Nm compared to the Triumph's 130 Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and use a prop shaft for transmission.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer, on the other hand, has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 49mm and a travel of 200mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. Both bikes offer preload adjustment, but the Triumph also has compression and rebound adjustment.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of chassis, both bikes have steel frames. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a load-bearing engine frame type, while the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a tubular frame type. The BMW has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm, while the Triumph has a rake of 65.9 degrees and a trail of 120mm.

Both bikes have double disk front brakes, but the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer offers additional assistance systems such as collision warning, blind spot assist, and shift assistant with blipper. Both bikes have a 19-inch front tire diameter, but the BMW has a wider rear tire width of 170mm compared to the Triumph's 150mm. The BMW has a 17-inch rear tire diameter, while the Triumph has an 18-inch rear tire diameter.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a wheelbase of 1504mm, a seat height of 890mm (adjustable up to 910mm), and a kerb weight of 268kg. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560mm, a lower seat height of 850mm (adjustable up to 870mm), and a slightly lighter kerb weight of 255kg. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

When it comes to equipment, both bikes offer a range of features such as cornering lights, LED headlights, heated seats, TFT displays, and adjustable windscreens. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer also offers additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, keyless system, and blind spot assist.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is praised for its high-torque engine, low centre of gravity, practical details, long range, low consumption, good wind and weather protection, ride comfort, powerful engine, great electronics, easy-to-read display, confident feeling in the saddle, practical riding aids, and great ergonomics for tall riders. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is praised for its powerful engine, high-quality electronics package, semi-active chassis, extensive standard equipment, long-distance comfort, excellent wind and weather protection, agility, and better model spread between on- and off-road.

However, both bikes have some weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is criticized for its high weight, somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs, jagged appearance, and high price with full equipment. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has minor load change reactions on Explorer models, the absence of blind spot assist on Pro models, and a high pillion seat that restricts freedom of movement for sporty off-roading.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a powerful engine, practical features, and great ergonomics, while the Triumph provides a high-quality electronics package, extensive standard equipment, and excellent comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.