BMW F 900 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2021

The BMW F 900 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

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 delivers a power output of 105 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. The transmission is a chain drive. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a boxer, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It offers a higher power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The transmission is a prop shaft drive. Both bikes have 4-stroke engines.

In terms of suspension, the F 900 XR is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 170 mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 172 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. Similar to the F 900 XR, the suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound.

Both motorcycles have a steel frame, with the F 900 XR featuring a twin tube, load-bearing engine frame and the R 1250 GS featuring a load-bearing engine frame. The rake and trail measurements differ slightly, with the F 900 XR having a rake of 60.5 degrees and a trail of 105.2 mm, while the R 1250 GS has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm.

BMW F 900 XR 2020

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The F 900 XR has a front brake diameter of 320 mm with radial technology, while the R 1250 GS has a front brake diameter of 305 mm with radial technology.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, and riding modes. However, the R 1250 GS offers additional features such as hill start assist, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the F 900 XR has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 180 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1518 mm, and the seat height is 815 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 211 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 15.5 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1525 mm, and the seat height is 850 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 249 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer LED headlights and an adjustable windscreen. The F 900 XR is equipped with a TFT display, while the R 1250 GS offers additional features such as cornering lights and a connectivity app.

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The F 900 XR's strengths include a resilient and powerful engine, variable ergonomics, sufficient wind protection, great Brembo brakes, stylish looks, and a wide range of accessories. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS's strengths include great ride comfort and ergonomics, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, a versatile chassis that accommodates every route, and being easy to ride.

In terms of weaknesses, the F 900 XR's only mentioned weakness is its behavioral sound, while the R 1250 GS's weaknesses include a rough overall appearance and somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs.

In conclusion, both the BMW F 900 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offer a range of features and capabilities. The F 900 XR excels in its engine power and torque, as well as its stylish looks and wide range of accessories. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS offers great ride comfort, a powerful engine, practical riding aids, and a versatile chassis. However, it has a rough overall appearance and somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs. Ultimately, the choice between the two motorcycles will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.