Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 vs. BMW R 1250 RS 2021

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 and the BMW R 1250 RS 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of performance and comfort for long-distance rides. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT features an inline, 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 890cc. It delivers 119 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque. The transmission is chain-driven, and it has a 4-stroke engine. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 RS is equipped with a boxer, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It offers a higher power output of 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The transmission is a prop shaft, and it also has a 4-stroke engine.

Both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front suspension, but the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT has a travel of 130mm, while the BMW R 1250 RS has a slightly higher travel of 140mm. In the rear suspension, both models have a monoshock, but the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT has a travel of 137mm, while the BMW R 1250 RS has a travel of 140mm. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT also offers preload adjustment for the rear suspension.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the BMW R 1250 RS has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. Both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front, but the BMW R 1250 RS has larger diameter disks at 320mm compared to the 298mm disks on the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT.

When it comes to advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT also features electronically adjustable suspension, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The BMW R 1250 RS, on the other hand, offers additional features such as anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT has a front tire width of 120mm, a rear tire width of 180mm, and a wheelbase of 1500mm. The seat height is 810mm, and the kerb weight with ABS is 220kg. It also has a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters. The BMW R 1250 RS has similar tire widths and wheelbase dimensions, but it has a slightly higher seat height of 820mm. The kerb weight with ABS is higher at 243kg, and it has a slightly smaller fuel tank capacity of 18 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT offers additional features such as heated grips, a case system, cornering lights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is praised for its GT variant with great standard equipment, powerful engine with great tuning, easy handling, stable ride, comprehensive electronics package, great e-chassis, good wind protection, great pillion comfort, and long range. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 RS is commended for its high stability in long radii, agile and high-revving boxer engine, good looks, comfortable seating position, extensive list of accessories, and great ESA chassis.

However, there are also some weaknesses noted for each model. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is criticized for its poorly readable and illogical display, stationary noise above 95 dB, somewhat rough clutch, and moderate responsiveness. The BMW R 1250 RS is noted for its high weight that is noticeable in tight bends, windshield that could be higher, many compulsory features at extra cost, and somewhat sluggish performance.

In conclusion, both the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 and the BMW R 1250 RS 2021 are capable sport touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT offers a powerful engine, comprehensive electronics package, and good comfort, while the BMW R 1250 RS provides stability, agility, and a range of accessories. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.