BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure model year 2015 is equipped with a Boxer engine and a shaft drive. It has a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, resulting in a displacement of 1170 cc. The engine produces a power output of 125 HP and a torque of 125 Nm. The transmission is a shaft drive and it has 2 cylinders. The frame is made of steel and has a double tube design, with the engine serving as a load-bearing component. The front suspension is a support type, while the rear suspension is a single swingarm. The front brakes are dual disc type. The bike also features advanced driver assistance systems such as riding modes. The front tire has a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1510 mm and the seat height is 910 mm. The bike weighs 260 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure model year 2023 also features a Boxer engine and a shaft drive. The bore has been increased to 102.5 mm and the stroke to 76 mm, resulting in a displacement of 1254 cc. The engine now produces a power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm, providing a higher level of performance compared to the previous model. The transmission remains a shaft drive and it still has 2 cylinders. The frame is made of steel and the design is similar to the previous model, with the engine serving as a load-bearing component. The front suspension has been upgraded to a Telelever type, while the rear suspension remains a single swingarm. The front brakes are still dual disc type. The bike now features additional advanced driver assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and cruise control. The dimensions and weights remain largely unchanged, with a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1504 mm, a seat height of 890 mm, a weight of 268 kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 is praised for its powerful engine, relatively easy handling, large 30-liter fuel tank, excellent ergonomics, and stable brakes. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offers a high-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, surprisingly accessible maneuverability thanks to a low center of gravity, practical details for frequent riders, a gigantic range of 600 km, incredibly low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great riding comfort, a powerful engine, excellent electronic system, easy-to-read display, confidence-inspiring saddle feel, and practical riding aids. It also provides excellent ergonomics for tall riders.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

However, both models have a common weakness, which is their high weight. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 is also criticized for its high price, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is noted for somewhat clumsy gear changes at low revs, an irregular and less elegant appearance, and a high price with all the equipment included.