BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2023

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2023 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and touring comfort. While they have some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both motorcycles have in-line engines, but the BMW S 1000 XR has a more powerful engine with 165 HP compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT's 119 HP. The BMW also has higher torque at 114 Nm compared to the Yamaha's 93 Nm. Both motorcycles have a chain transmission and 4-stroke engines, but the BMW has four cylinders while the Yamaha has three. The BMW has a larger displacement at 999 ccm compared to the Yamaha's 890 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The BMW has a slightly larger travel distance for both the front and rear suspension at 150 mm, compared to the Yamaha's 130 mm for the front and 137 mm for the rear. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound, but the Yamaha only has preload adjustment for the rear suspension.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have aluminum frames, but the BMW has a twin tube frame that is load-bearing on the engine, while the Yamaha has a twin tube frame without load-bearing engine design.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

For braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, but the BMW has larger diameter disks at 320 mm compared to the Yamaha's 298 mm.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS, suspension electronically adjustable, and ride by wire. The BMW also offers additional features such as riding modes, cornering ABS, and traction control. The Yamaha, on the other hand, offers a quickshifter, anti-wheelie, and cornering lights.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1552 mm compared to the Yamaha's 1500 mm. The seat height is also higher on the BMW at 840 mm compared to the Yamaha's 810 mm. The BMW is slightly heavier with a kerb weight of 226 kg compared to the Yamaha's 220 kg. Both motorcycles have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters, with the BMW having a slightly wider rear tire at 190 mm compared to the Yamaha's 180 mm. The BMW also has a larger fuel tank capacity at 20 liters compared to the Yamaha's 19 liters.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2023

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer LED headlights, TFT displays, and adjustable windscreens. The BMW also offers LED daytime running lights, while the Yamaha offers heated grips and a case system.

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is praised for its riding modes that allow for customizable response behavior, its rev-happy four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band, its well-balanced vehicle with electronic chassis that automatically recognizes load conditions, and its good brakes. On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2023 is praised for its powerful engine with great tuning, light and stable handling, electronically adjustable chassis, comprehensive electronics package, good wind protection, and great passenger comfort.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is criticized for its narrow knee angle on long tours for tall riders, its suspension damping that is not sensitive enough, and its high fuel consumption. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2023 is criticized for its somewhat rough clutch and displays that may take some getting used to.

Overall, both the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2023 offer a combination of sporty performance and touring comfort, but they have distinct differences in terms of power, suspension, chassis, and equipment. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities when choosing between the two motorcycles.