BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The BMW F 850 GS Adventure model year 2019 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure model year 2023 are both enduro motorcycles designed for adventure touring and off-road riding. While they share some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have notable differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the F 850 GS Adventure is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853cc. It delivers a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure features a boxer, 2-cylinder engine with a larger displacement of 1254cc. It offers a higher power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The R 1250 GS Adventure's engine is known for its high torque, providing strong acceleration from low revs.

In terms of suspension, the F 850 GS Adventure is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 230mm at the front. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 215mm. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is also a swing arm with a monoshock, but with a slightly higher travel of 220mm. Both motorcycles offer preload and rebound adjustment for the rear suspension.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame with a load-bearing engine. The F 850 GS Adventure has a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 124.6mm, while the R 1250 GS Adventure has a slightly steeper rake of 65.1 degrees and a shorter trail of 95.4mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front and have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, and riding modes. However, the R 1250 GS Adventure also includes additional features such as hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, cornering ABS, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 850 GS Adventure has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1593mm and a seat height of 875mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 244kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a slightly smaller front tire diameter of 19 inches and a wider rear tire width of 170mm. It has a wheelbase of 1504mm and a higher seat height of 890mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 268kg, and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters, providing a range of up to 600km.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of strengths, the F 850 GS Adventure is praised for its silky-smooth engine, top ergonomics and comfort, suitability for touring and off-road riding, and overall technical maturity. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure is known for its high-torque engine, low center of gravity for maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders, great range and fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, ride comfort, powerful engine, advanced electronics, easy-to-read display, confident feeling in the saddle, practical riding aids, and great ergonomics for tall riders.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The F 850 GS Adventure is criticized for its high price with additional equipment, lack of emotional engine character, non-adjustable fork, and relatively high weight. Similarly, the R 1250 GS Adventure is noted for its high weight, somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs, jagged appearance with little elegance, and high price with full equipment.

In conclusion, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The R 1250 GS Adventure offers a more powerful engine, advanced electronics, and additional features, but it also comes with a higher price and weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.