BMW R 1200 RS 2015 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2020

The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles with boxer engines. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 has a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, while the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a slightly larger bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. The R 1250 GS also has a higher engine power of 136 HP compared to the R 1200 RS's 125 HP. The torque is also higher in the R 1250 GS, with 143 Nm compared to the R 1200 RS's 125 Nm. Both motorcycles have a 2-cylinder, 4-stroke engine, and a displacement of 1170 ccm for the R 1200 RS and 1254 ccm for the R 1250 GS.

In terms of suspension, the R 1200 RS has a telescopic fork front suspension and a paralever rear suspension, while the R 1250 GS has a telelever front suspension and a single swing arm rear suspension. Both motorcycles have a steel frame and a load-bearing engine frame type.

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front with radial technology. The R 1200 RS has a front tyre width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the R 1250 GS has the same front tyre width but a larger diameter of 19 inches. The rear tyre width is 180 mm for the R 1200 RS and 170 mm for the R 1250 GS, both with a diameter of 17 inches.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the R 1200 RS has a wheelbase of 1530 mm, a seat height of 820 mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 236 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 18 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1525 mm, a higher seat height of 850 mm, and a higher kerb weight (with ABS) of 249 kg. The fuel tank capacity is also larger at 20 liters.

When it comes to strengths, the R 1200 RS has an agile, high-revving boxer engine with a cool, muffled sound. It also has a good, adjustable windshield and a comfortable seating position suitable for touring. The chassis is stable, and ABS and traction control are standard. The R 1200 RS also has selectable riding modes and a front-end look in the style of the S 1000 RR superbike. Additionally, it has an extensive list of accessories available.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has an extremely high-torque boxer engine with a good sound. It also has a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances and stable braking performance. The R 1250 GS offers good weather protection and comes standard with a color TFT display and LED headlights.

In terms of weaknesses, the R 1200 RS has a poorly readable speedometer and rev counter, and many features come at an extra cost. The R 1250 GS has manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list. It also has a jagged appearance with little elegance.

Overall, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 offers some improvements over the BMW R 1200 RS 2015, including a more powerful engine, larger fuel tank capacity, and updated features. However, both motorcycles have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and intended use.