BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2018

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the BMW F 850 GS 2018 are both enduro motorcycles, but they have some notable differences in their technical specifications.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the BMW F 850 GS 2018 has an inline engine. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a larger bore of 102.5 mm compared to the F 850 GS's 84 mm, which allows for a higher power output. The R 1250 GS Adventure also has a higher engine power of 136 HP and torque of 143 Nm, compared to the F 850 GS's 95 HP and 92 Nm. Both motorcycles have an electric starter, but the R 1250 GS Adventure has a transmission with a prop shaft, while the F 850 GS has a chain transmission. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a larger displacement of 1254 ccm, while the F 850 GS has a displacement of 853 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The F 850 GS has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 204 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 219 mm. Both motorcycles have preload and rebound adjustment for the rear suspension.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a load-bearing engine frame type, while the F 850 GS has a tubular load-bearing engine frame type. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4 mm, while the F 850 GS has a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 126 mm.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes. The R 1250 GS Adventure has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. The F 850 GS only has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1504 mm and the seat height is 890 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 268 kg and the fuel tank capacity is 30 liters. The F 850 GS has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1593 mm and the seat height is 860 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 229 kg and the fuel tank capacity is 15 liters.

BMW F 850 GS 2018

In terms of strengths, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a high-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, a low center of gravity that ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders on board, a gigantic range of 600 km, low consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, powerful engine, great electronics, an easy-to-read display, a confident feeling in the saddle, practical riding aids, and great ergonomics for tall people. The F 850 GS has a superior engine, an adequate braking system, a very good seating position, easy handling, an extensive range of accessories, riding modes, traction control, and off-road capability.

In terms of weaknesses, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a high weight, gearshifts at low revs that can be somewhat clumsy, a jagged appearance with little elegance, and a high price with full equipment. The F 850 GS has a disc that is too low and the sound could be better.

Overall, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and a larger fuel tank capacity compared to the BMW F 850 GS 2018. However, the F 850 GS has its strengths in terms of its superior engine, off-road capability, and easier handling.