BMW R 1200 RS 2015 vs. Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

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Overview - BMW R 1200 RS 2015 vs Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 and Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and long-distance comfort. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 125 horsepower and 125 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 features an inline three-cylinder engine that produces 115 horsepower and 87.5 Nm of torque. While the BMW has a slightly more powerful engine, the Yamaha offers a smooth and responsive power delivery.

The transmission systems also differ between the two models. The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 has a prop shaft transmission, which provides a direct and efficient power transfer. In contrast, the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 uses a chain transmission, which requires regular maintenance but offers a lighter and more compact design.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature telescopic forks at the front. The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 has a steel frame, while the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 utilizes an aluminum frame. The frame type of the BMW is load-bearing engine, which contributes to its stability and handling. The Yamaha, on the other hand, has a twin tube frame that enhances its agility and maneuverability.

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, providing strong and reliable stopping power. They also have the same tire dimensions, with a width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches at the front and a width of 180 mm and a diameter of 17 inches at the rear.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 has a longer wheelbase of 1530 mm compared to the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020's 1440 mm. The seat height of the Yamaha is slightly higher at 845 mm, while the BMW offers a slightly lower seat height of 820 mm. The kerb weight of the Yamaha is lighter at 210 kg, compared to the BMW's 236 kg.

Both motorcycles have an 18-liter fuel tank capacity, allowing for longer rides without frequent refueling.

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 offers an agile and high-revving boxer engine, a comfortable seating position suitable for touring, and a stable chassis. It also comes with ABS and traction control as standard, along with selectable riding modes. Additionally, it has a front-end look inspired by the S 1000 RR superbike and a wide range of accessories available.

On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 boasts a powerful engine, top chassis, and good stability. It has undergone a successful revision of aerodynamics and offers a comfort gain for the pillion passenger. It also comes with features such as cruise control, heated grips, and a TFT color display.

As for weaknesses, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 has a poorly readable speedometer and rev counter, and many features are available at an extra cost. The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 has a very low payload capacity and a pillion footrest system that restricts freedom of movement. It also lacks cornering ABS.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 and Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 are both capable sport touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a more powerful engine and a range of accessories, while the Yamaha provides a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1200 RS 2015 compared to Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

BMW R 1200 RS 2015
Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeIn line
BoreBore101 mmBore78 mm
StrokeStroke73 mmStroke59.1 mm
Engine powerEngine power125 HPEngine power115 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power10,000 rpm
TorqueTorque125 NmTorque87.5 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque8,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio11.5
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders3
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
DisplacementDisplacement1,170 ccmDisplacement847 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTelescopic forkFront suspensionTelescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameAluminium
Frame typeFrame typeLoad-bearing engineFrame typeTwin Tube

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,203 mmLength2,160 mm
WidthWidth998 mmWidth950 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,530 mmWheelbase1,440 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height820 mmSeat Height845 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)236 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)210 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity18 lFuel Tank Capacity18 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

With the R 1200 RS, BMW has once again returned to the values expected of touring professionals in a highly professional manner. The RS is therefore not a light, compact motorbike, but it offers wonderful stability, comfort and excellent wind protection over long distances. Nevertheless, sportiness is not neglected; the enormously powerful boxer engine is extremely agile and its cool sound alone puts the rider in a good mood. As usual, the Bavarians are excellent at offering an attractive list of accessories, from which some features play a decisive role in the good performance: The ESA suspension should not be missing for frequently changing load conditions (passenger, luggage), the shift assistant Pro is part of the ultimate driving pleasure and the keyless keyless ride system increases prestige and comfort.

Agile, high-revving boxer engine

cool, muffled sound

good, adjustable windshield

comfortable seating position suitable for touring

stable chassis

ABS and traction control standard

selectable riding modes

front-end look in the style of the S 1000 RR superbike

extensive list of accessories.

Poorly readable speedometer and rev counter

many features at extra cost

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020

The Tracer 900 GT is the perfect bike for those who find the naked MT-09 too spartan for sporty country road riding. Thanks to the longer swingarm and better aerodynamics, the high-speed problems that the predecessor had to contend with have now been largely eliminated. The premium version in the form of the Tracer 900 GT goes one better and can also convince with great comfort features.

powerful engine

top chassis

fun to ride

good stability

successful revision of aerodynamics

comfort gain for pillion passenger

cruise control

heated grips

TFT colour display

Very low payload

pillion footrest system restricts freedom of movement

no cornering ABS

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW R 1200 RS vs Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1200 RS 2015 and a Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1200 RS 2015 is about 4% higher. Compared to Yamaha Tracer 900 GT 2020 there are more BMW R 1200 RS 2015 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 12 compared to 7. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 RS with 78 days compared to 80 days for a Yamaha Tracer 900 GT. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 13 reviews for the BMW R 1200 RS and 5 reviews for the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT since model year 2018. The first review for the BMW R 1200 RS was published on 9/30/2014 and now has more than 28,300 views. This compares to more than 158,600 views for the first review on Yamaha Tracer 900 GT published on 4/17/2018.

Price BMW R 1200 RS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

Model year
Current average market prices

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