BMW F 850 GS 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

The BMW F 850 GS model year 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure model year 2021 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles. While they share some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW F 850 GS is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853ccm. It produces 95 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254ccm, delivering a more powerful 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters, but the F 850 GS has a chain transmission while the R 1250 GS Adventure has a prop shaft transmission.

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

BMW F 850 GS 2022

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

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The F 850 GS has a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150mm rear tire width, and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 170mm rear tire width, and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The wheelbase of the F 850 GS is 1593mm, while the R 1250 GS Adventure has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1504mm. The seat height of the F 850 GS is 860mm, while the R 1250 GS Adventure has a higher seat height of 890mm.

In terms of weight, the F 850 GS has a kerb weight (with ABS) of 229kg, while the R 1250 GS Adventure is heavier with a kerb weight (with ABS) of 268kg. The fuel tank capacity of the F 850 GS is 15 liters, while the R 1250 GS Adventure has a much larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

Now, let's compare the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The F 850 GS has good wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, and very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. It also offers good seat comfort and a great connectivity solution. However, it is reported to have vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that is too lax. The fork is not adjustable, and some riders feel a ponderous feel and that the front brake could do with more bite.

On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has practical details for frequent riders on board, a gigantic range, and amazingly low fuel consumption. It also offers good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, and a powerful engine. The bike has a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, and a confident feeling in the saddle. It provides a pleasant seating position for the pillion passenger, practical riding aids, great headlights, and great ergonomics for tall people. However, it is reported to have a high weight that strains when maneuvering, gearshifts that are somewhat stiff at low revs, and a jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The F 850 GS offers accessible everyday use and practicality, while the R 1250 GS Adventure provides a more powerful engine and additional features for long-distance riding. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and riding needs.