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

The BMW F 900 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles, but they have some notable differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the F 900 XR has an in-line engine with a displacement of 895cc, producing 105 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. It has a 4-stroke, 2-cylinder configuration and is equipped with a chain transmission. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It also has a 4-stroke, 2-cylinder configuration but is equipped with a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the F 900 XR has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 170 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 172 mm. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has 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. Both motorcycles have adjustable preload and rebound settings for the rear suspension.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. The F 900 XR has a twin tube, load-bearing engine frame type with a rake of 60.5 degrees and a trail of 105.2 mm. The R 1250 GS also has a load-bearing engine frame type with a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm.

BMW F 900 XR 2021

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes with radial technology. The F 900 XR has a front brake diameter of 320 mm, while the R 1250 GS has a front brake diameter of 305 mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, and riding modes. The R 1250 GS also has ride by wire technology.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 900 XR has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 180 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1518 mm and a seat height of 815 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 211 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 15.5 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 249 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles are equipped with LED headlights and adjustable windscreens. The F 900 XR also has a TFT display, while the R 1250 GS has a color TFT display as standard.

In terms of strengths, the F 900 XR is praised for its clean engine response, easy rideability, cool looks, great display, good brakes, easy handling, stable ride feel, great connectivity, high lean angle clearance, well-tuned ABS, and easy maneuverability. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS is praised for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, color TFT display as standard, and LED headlights.

In terms of weaknesses, the F 900 XR is criticized for its hard seat, somewhat doughy gearbox including a tough quickshifter, and a desire for more power from the engine. The R 1250 GS is criticized for its manageable standard equipment, a long surcharge list, and a jagged appearance with little elegance.

Overall, the BMW F 900 XR 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 offer different strengths and weaknesses, catering to different rider preferences and needs. The F 900 XR is more focused on sport touring with its easy rideability and connectivity features, while the R 1250 GS offers a powerful and comfortable riding experience for long distances.