Touring champions: bmw r 1250 rt vs gs – dominating the open road
What To Know
- The R 1250 RT has a more traditional touring bike geometry than the GS, with a longer wheelbase and a lower seat height.
- The GS, on the other hand, has a shorter wheelbase and a higher seat height, which makes it more agile on twisty roads, but less stable on the highway.
- The RT has a more comfortable seat, a lower seat height, and a larger windscreen than the GS, which makes it more comfortable for long rides.
The BMW R 1250 RT and GS are two of the most iconic adventure touring motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer exceptional performance, comfort, and versatility, but they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this blog post, we’ll compare the BMW R 1250 RT vs. GS and help you decide which bike is right for you.
Engine and Performance
Both the R 1250 RT and GS are powered by the same 1254cc boxer-twin engine. However, the RT’s engine is tuned for more torque at lower RPMs, while the GS’s engine is tuned for more power at higher RPMs. As a result, the RT is better suited for long-distance touring, while the GS is better suited for off-road riding.
Handling and Suspension
The R 1250 RT has a more traditional touring bike geometry than the GS, with a longer wheelbase and a lower seat height. This makes it more stable and comfortable on the highway, but less agile on twisty roads. The GS, on the other hand, has a shorter wheelbase and a higher seat height, which makes it more agile on twisty roads, but less stable on the highway.
Both bikes have excellent suspension systems, but the GS’s suspension is more adjustable than the RT’s. This gives the GS an advantage when riding off-road, as it allows you to fine-tune the suspension to suit the conditions.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The R 1250 RT is designed for long-distance comfort, with a plush seat, adjustable handlebars, and a large windscreen. The GS, on the other hand, is designed for more aggressive riding, with a firmer seat, higher handlebars, and a smaller windscreen.
Both bikes have excellent ergonomics, but the RT’s ergonomics are better suited for long-distance touring, while the GS’s ergonomics are better suited for off-road riding.
Features and Technology
The R 1250 RT and GS come with a wide range of features and technology, including:
- Electronic fuel injection
- Anti-lock brakes
- Traction control
- Cruise control
- Heated grips
- Tire pressure monitoring
- GPS navigation
The GS also comes with a few additional features that are designed for off-road riding, such as:
- Off-road riding modes
- Enduro ABS
- Dynamic ESA suspension
Price and Availability
The BMW R 1250 RT starts at $19,995, while the BMW R 1250 GS starts at $20,495. Both bikes are available in a variety of colors and trim levels.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The BMW R 1250 RT and GS are both excellent adventure touring motorcycles, but they have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The RT is better suited for long-distance touring, while the GS is better suited for off-road riding.
If you’re looking for a motorcycle that is comfortable, stable, and fuel-efficient, the R 1250 RT is a great choice. If you’re looking for a motorcycle that is agile, off-road capable, and feature-rich, the R 1250 GS is a great choice.
The Verdict: BMW R 1250 RT vs GS
The BMW R 1250 RT and GS are two of the best adventure touring motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer exceptional performance, comfort, and versatility. However, the RT is better suited for long-distance touring, while the GS is better suited for off-road riding.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can experience firsthand the differences between the two bikes and make an informed decision.
What You Need to Know
Q: What is the difference between the BMW R 1250 RT and GS?
A: The R 1250 RT is a long-distance touring motorcycle, while the GS is an off-road adventure motorcycle. The RT has a more comfortable seat, a lower seat height, and a larger windscreen than the GS. The GS has a shorter wheelbase, a higher seat height, and a smaller windscreen than the RT.
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance touring?
A: The R 1250 RT is better for long-distance touring than the GS. The RT has a more comfortable seat, a lower seat height, and a larger windscreen than the GS, which makes it more comfortable for long rides.
Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The R 1250 GS is better for off-road riding than the RT. The GS has a shorter wheelbase, a higher seat height, and a smaller windscreen than the RT, which makes it more agile and easier to handle off-road.