What To Know
- The Tiger also comes with a range of off-road-oriented features, such as a hill hold system, a dedicated off-road mode, and a longer suspension travel.
- Both bikes offer a lot of value for the money, but the Tiger is slightly more expensive due to its more advanced technology and off-road capabilities.
- However, the Tiger has a slight edge in terms of performance, off-road capabilities, and technology, while the GS is more stable, comfortable, and affordable.
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer and the BMW R1200GS are two of the most iconic adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a potent blend of performance, versatility, and off-road prowess. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each bike to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Engine
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1,215cc triple-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and 90 lb-ft of torque. The BMW R1200GS, on the other hand, utilizes a liquid-cooled, 1,170cc boxer-twin engine that generates 125 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque.
While the Tiger’s triple-cylinder engine offers a more linear power delivery and a higher revving character, the GS’s boxer-twin engine provides smoother low-end torque and a distinctive sound. Both bikes are capable of tackling challenging terrain, but the Tiger has a slight edge in terms of acceleration and top speed.
Suspension and Handling
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer boasts a semi-active suspension system with electronically adjustable damping, providing a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved roads. The BMW R1200GS also features a semi-active suspension system, but it is more basic and does not offer as much adjustability.
In terms of handling, the Tiger is more agile and responsive, while the GS is more stable and planted. Both bikes handle well on twisty roads, but the Tiger excels in off-road conditions thanks to its lighter weight and more nimble suspension.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer and the BMW R1200GS are designed for adventure riding, but they have different strengths and weaknesses in this area. The Tiger features a 21-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, giving it better off-road traction and ground clearance. The GS, on the other hand, has a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, which provides more stability on paved roads.
The Tiger also comes with a range of off-road-oriented features, such as a hill hold system, a dedicated off-road mode, and a longer suspension travel. The GS has fewer off-road-specific features, but it still offers impressive off-road performance thanks to its powerful engine and stable handling.
Technology and Features
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is loaded with advanced technology and features. It boasts a 7-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and a variety of rider aids, including traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS. The BMW R1200GS also features a 6.5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation, but it has fewer rider aids than the Tiger.
However, the GS offers some unique features, such as a self-canceling turn signal system and a hill start assist system. Both bikes have heated grips, cruise control, and a variety of other convenience features.
Price and Value
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer has a starting price of $18,195, while the BMW R1200GS starts at $16,095. Both bikes offer a lot of value for the money, but the Tiger is slightly more expensive due to its more advanced technology and off-road capabilities.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer and the BMW R1200GS are both excellent adventure motorcycles, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Tiger is more powerful, agile, and off-road capable, while the GS is more stable, comfortable, and affordable.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one suits your riding style and needs better.
Final Thoughts
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer and the BMW R1200GS are two of the best adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a potent blend of performance, versatility, and off-road prowess. However, the Tiger has a slight edge in terms of performance, off-road capabilities, and technology, while the GS is more stable, comfortable, and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is more powerful, with 141 horsepower compared to the BMW R1200GS’s 125 horsepower.
Q: Which bike has a better suspension system?
A: Both bikes feature semi-active suspension systems, but the Tiger’s system is more advanced and offers more adjustability.
Q: Which bike is better off-road?
A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is better off-road thanks to its lighter weight, more nimble suspension, and off-road-oriented features.
Q: Which bike has more technology?
A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer has more advanced technology and features, including a larger TFT display, more rider aids, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The BMW R1200GS is more affordable, with a starting price of $16,095 compared to the Tiger’s $18,195.