BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2018

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the BMW F 850 GS 2018 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they have some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 features an in-line engine with a displacement of 853cc, delivering 95 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a more powerful engine, providing better acceleration and overall performance.

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

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a load-bearing engine frame, while the F 850 GS has a tubular load-bearing engine frame. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a slightly steeper rake of 65.1 degrees compared to the F 850 GS's 62-degree rake. The trail on the R 1250 GS Adventure is 95.4mm, while the F 850 GS has a trail of 126mm. These differences in chassis design and geometry can affect the handling and stability of the motorcycles.

Both motorcycles feature double disk front brakes for reliable stopping power. However, the R 1250 GS Adventure offers more advanced rider assistance systems, including 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 its 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 170mm, while the F 850 GS has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. The wheelbase on the R 1250 GS Adventure is 1504mm, slightly shorter than the F 850 GS's 1593mm wheelbase. The seat height on the R 1250 GS Adventure is 890mm, while the F 850 GS has a slightly lower seat height of 860mm. The R 1250 GS Adventure also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters compared to the F 850 GS's 15 liters. However, the R 1250 GS Adventure is significantly heavier with a kerb weight of 268kg, while the F 850 GS weighs 229kg.

BMW F 850 GS 2018

In terms of strengths, the R 1250 GS Adventure offers practical details for frequent riders, a gigantic range, low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feeling in the saddle, a pleasant seating position for the pillion passenger, practical riding aids, great headlights, and great ergonomics for tall people. The F 850 GS, on the other hand, is praised for its superior engine, adequate braking system, very good seating position, easy handling, extensive range of accessories, riding modes, traction control, and off-road capability.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The R 1250 GS Adventure's high weight can strain maneuverability, and its gearshifts can be somewhat stiff at low revs. Additionally, some may find its appearance jagged with little elegance. The F 850 GS has a disc that is positioned too low, and some riders may find its sound could be better.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the BMW F 850 GS 2018 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The R 1250 GS Adventure offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and a larger fuel tank capacity, while the F 850 GS excels in its engine performance, seating position, and off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.