BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2015

The BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique set of features and characteristics.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the F 850 GS Adventure is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a bore of 84 mm and a stroke of 77 mm. It produces 95 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. The transmission is chain-driven and the displacement is 853 ccm. On the other hand, the R 1200 GS has a boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. It delivers a more powerful 125 HP and 125 Nm of torque. The transmission is a prop shaft and the displacement is 1170 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the F 850 GS Adventure features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension at the rear, both of which can be adjusted for preload and rebound. The R 1200 GS, on the other hand, has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm rear suspension, with only preload adjustment available.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

Both motorcycles have a steel frame, with the F 850 GS Adventure having a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type and the R 1200 GS having a twin tube, load-bearing engine frame type.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 850 GS Adventure has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches, while the R 1200 GS has a smaller front tire diameter of 19 inches. The rear tire width is 150 mm for the F 850 GS Adventure and 170 mm for the R 1200 GS. Both motorcycles have a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is longer for the F 850 GS Adventure at 1593 mm compared to the 1507 mm of the R 1200 GS. The seat height is higher for the F 850 GS Adventure at 875 mm compared to the 850 mm of the R 1200 GS. The F 850 GS Adventure also has a higher kerb weight with ABS at 244 kg compared to the 238 kg of the R 1200 GS. The fuel tank capacity is larger for the F 850 GS Adventure at 23 liters compared to the 20 liters of the R 1200 GS.

BMW R 1200 GS 2015

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 use, and overall technical maturity. On the other hand, the R 1200 GS is known for its powerful engine, low fuel consumption, comfortable seating position, off-road capabilities, and high reputation.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. 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. The R 1200 GS has drawbacks such as a long and expensive surcharge side, a Telelever front suspension that takes some getting used to, and sharp brakes.

In conclusion, both the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2015 have their own unique set of features, strengths, and weaknesses. It ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities to determine which motorcycle suits them better.