BMW S 1000 XR 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both sport touring motorcycles from BMW, but they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has an in-line, 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc, producing 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It has a prop shaft transmission and a 4-stroke engine. The S 1000 XR has a higher power output, while the R 1250 GS has a higher torque output.

In terms of suspension, the S 1000 XR has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 150mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 150mm. The frame is made of aluminum, and the front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 320mm. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The frame is made of steel, and the front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 305mm.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

In terms of dimensions and weights, the S 1000 XR has a wheelbase of 1552mm, a seat height of 840mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 226kg. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. The R 1250 GS has a wheelbase of 1525mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 249kg. The fuel tank capacity is also 20 liters. Both motorcycles have similar dimensions and weights, with the S 1000 XR being slightly lighter.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have LED headlights and adjustable windshields. The S 1000 XR also has LED daytime running lights and a TFT display, while the R 1250 GS has a color TFT display as standard.

In terms of strengths, the S 1000 XR has a great connection and integration from mobile phone to vehicle, including good navigation software. It also has a great revving four-cylinder engine with a wide usable rev band and pleasant engine tuning. The riding modes change the response behavior in a practical way, and the electronic chassis with automatic detection of load condition makes the vehicle well-balanced, even with a pillion passenger. The S 1000 XR also has good brakes and wind and weather protection.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

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

In terms of weaknesses, the S 1000 XR has a narrow knee angle on long tours, which may be uncomfortable for tall people. The suspension damping is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to find a really comfortable setup. The R 1250 GS has manageable standard equipment and a jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both excellent sport touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The S 1000 XR offers a powerful engine and well-balanced handling, while the R 1250 GS offers a high-torque boxer engine and comfortable seating position. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.