Bmw 650 Gs Vs Triumph Tiger 800

When it comes to adventure motorcycles, two iconic names rise to the top: the BMW 650 GS and the Triumph Tiger 800. Both bikes offer an enticing blend of on-road prowess and off-road capability, making them ideal for exploring the world’s untamed landscapes. But which one is the better choice? To help you make an informed decision, we’ll pit these two adventure titans against each other, comparing their performance, features, and overall value.

Performance Comparison

Engine and Power:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS is powered by a 652cc parallel-twin engine that produces 70 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 features an 800cc triple-cylinder engine that delivers 94 horsepower and 65 lb-ft of torque.

The Tiger 800 has a clear advantage in terms of power, offering a more thrilling and responsive ride. However, the 650 GS’s parallel-twin engine provides smooth and predictable power delivery, making it easier to handle in challenging off-road conditions.

Handling and Suspension:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS has a low center of gravity and a well-balanced chassis, making it agile and easy to maneuver. Its suspension offers a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 is slightly heavier than the 650 GS, but its agile handling and responsive suspension still make it a pleasure to ride. It has a longer wheelbase, providing increased stability on rough terrain.

Both bikes handle well on-road, but the 650 GS’s lower weight and nimbleness give it an edge in tight corners and technical off-road situations.

Features and Technology

Electronics and Rider Aids:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS offers a range of electronic rider aids, including ABS, traction control, and two riding modes (Rain and Road).
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 comes with a more comprehensive electronics package, including ABS, traction control, cornering ABS, and multiple riding modes (Road, Rain, Off-Road, and Sport).

The Tiger 800’s advanced electronics provide greater versatility and confidence, especially in challenging riding conditions.

Instrumentation and Connectivity:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS has a simple and intuitive instrument cluster that displays essential information.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 features a full-color TFT display that offers a wide range of information and connectivity options, including Bluetooth and navigation.

The Tiger 800’s advanced instrumentation provides a more modern and user-friendly experience.

Off-Road Capabilities

Ground Clearance and Suspension Travel:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches and suspension travel of 7.1 inches at the front and 7.5 inches at the rear.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 has a ground clearance of 9.4 inches and suspension travel of 8.7 inches at the front and 8.5 inches at the rear.

The Tiger 800’s increased ground clearance and suspension travel give it an advantage in tackling rough terrain and obstacles.

Off-Road Riding Modes:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS has a dedicated “Off-Road” riding mode that adjusts the ABS and traction control settings for improved off-road performance.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 has an “Off-Road Pro” riding mode that disables ABS on the rear wheel and provides a more aggressive throttle response for enhanced off-road control.

Both bikes offer dedicated off-road riding modes, but the Tiger 800’s “Off-Road Pro” mode provides greater customization and control for experienced riders.

On-Road Performance

Comfort and Ergonomics:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS has an upright and comfortable riding position, with a wide, supportive seat and adjustable handlebars.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 also offers a comfortable riding position, but its seat is slightly narrower and the handlebars are less adjustable.

Both bikes provide a comfortable ride, but the 650 GS’s wider seat and adjustable handlebars give it an edge in long-distance comfort.

Fuel Economy and Range:

• BMW 650 GS: The 650 GS has a 3.7-gallon fuel tank and an average fuel economy of 50-60 mpg, providing a range of around 200-240 miles.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The Tiger 800 has a 4.2-gallon fuel tank and an average fuel economy of 45-55 mpg, providing a range of around 180-230 miles.

The Tiger 800’s larger fuel tank gives it a slight advantage in range, but the 650 GS’s better fuel economy makes up for the difference in tank size.

Value and Price

• BMW 650 GS: The 2023 BMW 650 GS starts at $9,695.
• Triumph Tiger 800: The 2023 Triumph Tiger 800 starts at $11,995.

The 650 GS is significantly more affordable than the Tiger 800, making it a better value for budget-conscious riders. However, the Tiger 800’s advanced features and performance justify its higher price tag.

Final Note: The Ultimate Choice

The choice between the BMW 650 GS and the Triumph Tiger 800 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-handle adventure motorcycle, the 650 GS is an excellent option. But if you demand more power, advanced electronics, and off-road capability, the Tiger 800 is the superior choice.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 has an advantage in off-road capabilities due to its increased ground clearance, longer suspension travel, and dedicated “Off-Road Pro” riding mode.

Q: Which bike is more comfortable for long-distance riding?
A: Both bikes offer a comfortable ride, but the BMW 650 GS has a wider seat and adjustable handlebars, providing an edge in long-distance comfort.

Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The BMW 650 GS is significantly more affordable than the Triumph Tiger 800, making it a better value for budget-conscious riders.

Q: Which bike has better fuel economy?
A: The BMW 650 GS has better fuel economy than the Triumph Tiger 800, providing a slightly longer range on a single tank of fuel.

Q: Which bike has more advanced electronics?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 has a more comprehensive electronics package, including cornering ABS, multiple riding modes, and a full-color TFT display with Bluetooth and navigation capabilities.