Bmw R 1200 Gs Vs R 1250 Gs

The BMW R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS are two of the most popular adventure motorcycles on the market. They offer a potent blend of performance, comfort, and off-road capability. But which bike is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the BMW R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS to help you make an informed decision.

Engine and Performance

The R 1200 GS features a 1170cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine that produces 125 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, boasts a more powerful 1254cc liquid-cooled boxer engine that delivers 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque.

While the R 1250 GS has a clear advantage in power, both bikes offer excellent acceleration and smooth power delivery. However, the R 1250 GS’s additional torque provides an extra boost in low-end grunt and off-road situations.

Suspension and Handling

Both the R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS feature a robust chassis with a Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension. These systems provide excellent stability and handling on both paved and unpaved roads.

The R 1250 GS, however, has a slightly more advanced suspension setup. It features a Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) system that allows riders to adjust the suspension settings on the fly. This system optimizes the bike’s handling for different riding conditions.

Electronics and Features

The R 1250 GS has a clear edge in terms of electronics and features. It comes standard with a full-color TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a host of rider aids, including cruise control, traction control, and multiple riding modes.

The R 1200 GS, while still offering a comprehensive suite of electronics, lacks some of the advanced features found on the R 1250 GS. It has a smaller LCD display, limited Bluetooth functionality, and fewer rider aids.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Both the R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS offer comfortable and upright riding positions. They have wide, supportive seats and well-positioned handlebars. However, the R 1250 GS has a slightly more refined and ergonomic design.

The R 1250 GS features a narrower fuel tank that improves rider comfort while standing, especially when off-road. It also has a more adjustable seat and a larger windscreen for better wind protection.

Off-Road Capability

Both the R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS are capable off-road machines. They have long-travel suspension, a low center of gravity, and a variety of electronic aids to assist riders in challenging terrain.

The R 1250 GS, however, has a slight advantage off-road. Its more powerful engine provides more torque for navigating steep hills and loose surfaces. It also has a slightly higher ground clearance and a more rugged skid plate.

Price and Availability

The R 1200 GS is typically priced lower than the R 1250 GS. However, the exact price difference will vary depending on the specific models and options chosen.

The R 1200 GS is still in production, while the R 1250 GS is the newer model. As a result, the R 1250 GS may be more readily available in certain markets.

The Verdict: Which Bike is Right for You?

The BMW R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS are both excellent adventure motorcycles that offer a unique blend of performance, comfort, and off-road capability. However, each bike has its own strengths and weaknesses.

If you’re looking for a powerful, feature-rich adventure bike with the latest electronics and a refined riding experience, the BMW R 1250 GS is the better choice. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a more traditional air-cooled engine, the BMW R 1200 GS is still a solid option.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both models and see which one best suits your needs and preferences.

What You Need to Know

1. What is the main difference between the R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS?

The main difference between the R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS is the engine. The R 1250 GS has a more powerful liquid-cooled engine, while the R 1200 GS has an air/oil-cooled engine.

2. Which bike is better off-road?

Both the R 1200 GS and R 1250 GS are capable off-road machines, but the R 1250 GS has a slight advantage due to its more powerful engine and slightly higher ground clearance.

3. Which bike is more comfortable?

The R 1250 GS has a slightly more refined and ergonomic design than the R 1200 GS, with a narrower fuel tank, a more adjustable seat, and a larger windscreen.

4. Which bike is cheaper?

The R 1200 GS is typically priced lower than the R 1250 GS, but the exact price difference will vary depending on the specific models and options chosen.

5. Which bike is more fuel-efficient?

The R 1200 GS is slightly more fuel-efficient than the R 1250 GS due to its smaller engine.