BMW F 900 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The BMW F 900 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both sport touring motorcycles, but they have some notable differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the F 900 XR is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 895cc. It generates 105 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, features a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The R 1250 GS has a higher power output and torque compared to the F 900 XR, making it more powerful and capable in terms of performance.

In terms of suspension, the F 900 XR is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. It offers a travel of 170mm at the front and 172mm at the rear. The R 1250 GS features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a single swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. It offers a travel of 190mm at the front and 200mm at the rear. The R 1250 GS has a slightly larger suspension travel, which can provide better off-road capabilities and absorb bumps more effectively.

BMW F 900 XR 2020

Both motorcycles have a steel frame, but the F 900 XR has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame, while the R 1250 GS has a load-bearing engine frame. The rake and trail measurements also differ, with the F 900 XR having a rake of 60.5 degrees and a trail of 105.2mm, and the R 1250 GS having a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm. These differences in chassis design and measurements can affect the handling and stability of the motorcycles.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, but the F 900 XR has larger diameter disks at 320mm compared to the R 1250 GS's 305mm. Both motorcycles feature advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, and riding modes. The R 1250 GS also has the additional feature of ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 900 XR has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1518mm, a seat height of 815mm, and a kerb weight of 211kg with ABS. The R 1250 GS has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 170mm, with a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a kerb weight of 249kg with ABS. The R 1250 GS has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters compared to the F 900 XR's 15.5 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles feature LED headlights and adjustable windscreen. The F 900 XR also has a TFT display, while the R 1250 GS has a standard color TFT display. The F 900 XR has the advantage of offering variable ergonomics, allowing riders to adjust the handlebars and footrests to their preference. The R 1250 GS is praised for its comfortable seating position, suitable for long distances.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of strengths, the F 900 XR is praised for its resilient and powerful engine, variable ergonomics, sufficient wind protection, great Brembo brakes, stylish looks, and wide range of accessories. The R 1250 GS is commended for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, comfortable seating position, stable braking performance, good weather protection, color TFT display as standard, and LED headlights.

However, the F 900 XR has been noted to have a behavioral sound as a weakness, while the R 1250 GS is criticized for its manageable standard equipment and jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, the BMW F 900 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The F 900 XR offers a powerful engine and variable ergonomics, while the R 1250 GS boasts an extremely high-torque boxer engine and a comfortable seating position. Riders should consider their priorities and preferences to choose the motorcycle that best suits their needs.