BMW R 1200 GS 2015 vs. BMW R nineT Urban G/S 2021

When comparing the BMW R 1200 GS model year 2015 and the BMW R nineT Urban G/S model year 2021, it is important to consider their technical specifications and strengths and weaknesses.

Both motorcycles have a Boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. The engine power of the R 1200 GS is higher at 125 HP compared to the R nineT Urban G/S with 109 HP. However, the R nineT Urban G/S has a slightly higher torque of 116 Nm compared to the R 1200 GS with 125 Nm. Both motorcycles have a prop shaft transmission and feature 2 cylinders with a displacement of 1170 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the R 1200 GS has a front suspension with a strut design and pre-load adjustment, while the R nineT Urban G/S features an upside-down telescopic fork with compression, pre-load, and rebound adjustment. The rear suspension of the R 1200 GS is a single swing arm with pre-load adjustment, while the R nineT Urban G/S has a paralever suspension with pre-load and rebound adjustment.

BMW R 1200 GS 2015

Both motorcycles have a steel frame, but the R 1200 GS has a twin tube load-bearing engine frame type, while the R nineT Urban G/S has a tubular load-bearing engine frame type. They both have double disk brakes at the front. The R 1200 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The R nineT Urban G/S has the same tire specifications.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the R 1200 GS has a wheelbase of 1507 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 238 kg. It also has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. On the other hand, the R nineT Urban G/S has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1527 mm, the same seat height of 850 mm, and a lighter curb weight (with ABS) of 223 kg. It has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 17 liters.

BMW R nineT Urban G/S 2021

The strengths of the R 1200 GS include its powerful engine, low fuel consumption, comfortable seating position, off-road capability, and high reputation. On the other hand, the R nineT Urban G/S boasts a characterful engine, improved standard equipment for 2021, neutral handling, high stability on tarmac, surprising off-road capability, great looks, and an enormous choice of accessories.

However, the R 1200 GS has some weaknesses such as a long and expensive surcharge side, a Telelever front suspension that takes some getting used to, and sharp brakes. The R nineT Urban G/S, on the other hand, has some weaknesses including turbulence due to the headlight fairing, an uncomfortable seat, and the possibility that it may be too classy for tough off-road use.

In conclusion, while the R 1200 GS 2015 and the R nineT Urban G/S 2021 share some similarities in terms of technical specifications, they also have distinct strengths and weaknesses that make them suitable for different riding preferences and purposes.