BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure model year 2012 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure model year 2023 are both enduro motorcycles with similar features. However, there are several notable differences between the two models.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, both motorcycles have a Boxer engine type with two cylinders. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012 has a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a slightly larger bore of 102.5 mm and stroke of 76 mm. This results in a higher power output for the 2023 model, with 136 HP compared to the 104 HP of the 2012 model. The torque is also higher in the 2023 model, with 143 Nm compared to the 115 Nm of the 2012 model. Both motorcycles have a shaft drive transmission.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have a single swingarm rear suspension with pre-load adjustment. However, the front suspension differs between the two models. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012 has a support front suspension with pre-load adjustment, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a telelever front suspension with pre-load adjustment. This difference in front suspension may result in slightly different handling characteristics.

Both motorcycles have a motor support frame type chassis and dual disc front brakes. The width of the rear tire is larger in the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023, with 170 mm compared to the 150 mm of the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012. The distance between the wheelbase is slightly shorter in the 2023 model, with 1504 mm compared to the 1510 mm of the 2012 model. The seat height is also lower in the 2023 model, with 890 mm compared to the 910 mm of the 2012 model. The fuel tank capacity is slightly smaller in the 2023 model, with 30 liters compared to the 33 liters of the 2012 model.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012 is praised for its successful wind protection, extremely comfortable ergonomics, ideal seat, precise chassis, and crisp sound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is praised for its high torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, low center of gravity that ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders on board, gigantic range of 600 km, incredibly low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great riding comfort, powerful engine, excellent electronic system, easy-to-read display, confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and excellent ergonomics for tall people.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012 is criticized for its transmission that could be smoother and its relatively low engine power. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is criticized for its high weight, somewhat clumsy gear changes at low revs, irregular and less elegant appearance, and high price with all the equipment.

Overall, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offers several improvements over the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2012, including a more powerful engine, higher torque, improved suspension, and better fuel efficiency. However, it also comes with a higher price tag and some minor drawbacks.