Triumph Tiger 1200 Gt Explorer Vs Bmw R1250gs

The adventure motorcycle segment is fiercely competitive, with two of the most prominent players being the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS. Both bikes are highly capable off-roaders with impressive on-road performance, making them ideal for long-distance adventures and daily commutes alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two titans to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your riding style and needs best.

Engine

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is powered by a 1,215cc inline-triple engine that produces 141 horsepower and 90 lb-ft of torque. The BMW R1250GS, on the other hand, features a 1,254cc opposed-twin engine that generates 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. While the BMW has a slight advantage in torque, the Triumph’s triple-cylinder layout provides a smoother and more exhilarating ride.

Chassis

Both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS are built on lightweight aluminum frames. The Triumph has a slightly shorter wheelbase (60.2 inches) than the BMW (60.6 inches), resulting in more agile handling on twisty roads. However, the BMW’s longer wheelbase provides better stability at high speeds and off-road.

Suspension

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes equipped with fully adjustable WP semi-active suspension, which offers a wide range of damping settings to suit different riding conditions. The BMW R1250GS also features fully adjustable suspension, but it uses a more traditional telescopic fork and a monoshock rear suspension. Both bikes provide excellent ride comfort and handling, but the Triumph’s semi-active suspension gives it a slight edge in this area.

Brakes

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS are both equipped with powerful Brembo brakes. The Triumph has dual 320mm floating discs with four-piston calipers at the front and a single 282mm disc with a two-piston caliper at the rear. The BMW has dual 305mm floating discs with four-piston calipers at the front and a single 276mm disc with a two-piston caliper at the rear. Both bikes offer excellent stopping power, but the Triumph’s larger front discs give it a slight advantage.

Technology

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids, including cruise control, traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS. The BMW R1250GS also offers a range of electronic features, such as cruise control, dynamic traction control, hill start assist, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Both bikes have large TFT displays that provide clear and informative ride data. However, the Triumph’s system is more user-friendly and intuitive.

Comfort and Practicality

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS are both designed for long-distance comfort. They have upright riding positions, wide seats, and ample legroom. The Triumph has a slightly more spacious cockpit than the BMW, making it more suitable for taller riders. Both bikes have large luggage capacity, with the Triumph offering a slightly larger top box capacity (52 liters) than the BMW (30 liters).

Off-Road Performance

Both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS are capable off-roaders, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Triumph has a more aggressive off-road stance, with a longer suspension travel and a wider range of rider aids. The BMW, on the other hand, is more stable and composed on rough terrain, thanks to its longer wheelbase and more conservative suspension settings.

Price and Value

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a base price of $19,995, while the BMW R1250GS starts at $20,495. Both bikes offer a wide range of optional extras, which can increase the price significantly. In terms of value, the Triumph is slightly more affordable than the BMW, but the BMW comes with a longer warranty (3 years/36,000 miles vs. 2 years/unlimited miles).

Verdict

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS are both excellent adventure motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Triumph is more agile, comfortable, and affordable, while the BMW is more stable, has a more powerful engine, and offers a longer warranty. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your individual riding style and needs. If you prioritize off-road performance and value for money, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is a great choice. If you prefer a more stable and refined ride with a more powerful engine, the BMW R1250GS is the better option.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which bike has a more powerful engine?
A: The BMW R1250GS has a more powerful engine, with 136 horsepower compared to the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer’s 141 horsepower.

Q: Which bike has a longer suspension travel?
A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a longer suspension travel, with 8.7 inches of travel at the front and 9.4 inches at the rear, compared to the BMW R1250GS’s 7.9 inches at the front and 8.7 inches at the rear.

Q: Which bike has a larger fuel tank capacity?
A: Both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the BMW R1250GS have a fuel tank capacity of 7.9 gallons.

Q: Which bike has a more comfortable seat?
A: Both bikes have comfortable seats, but the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer‘s seat is slightly more spacious, making it more suitable for taller riders.

Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is slightly more affordable than the BMW R1250GS, with a base price of $19,995 compared to the BMW’s $20,495.