The BMW R 1300 GS recently entered the Indian market, creating a buzz among adventure motorcycle enthusiasts. Priced at Rs 20.95 lakh, it stands as a significant player in its segment. Let’s compare this flagship bike with its primary rivals: Triumph Tiger 1200, Honda Africa Twin, Ducati Multistrada V4, and Harley-Davidson Pan America. This comparison delves into specifications, chassis, cycle parts, and other crucial features.
Engine Specifications
The BMW R 1300 GS features a 1,300 cc boxer-twin engine. This engine produces 143 bhp and 149 Nm of torque. Among its competitors, it boasts the highest torque. However, its power output is lower than most rivals except for the Honda Africa Twin.
Comparative Engine Details:
- BMW R 1300 GS: 1,300 cc, 143 bhp, 149 Nm
- Triumph Tiger 1200: 1,160 cc, 148 bhp, 130 Nm
- Honda Africa Twin: 1,083 cc, 98 bhp, 103 Nm
- Ducati Multistrada V4: 1,158 cc, 168 bhp, 125 Nm
- Harley-Davidson Pan America: 1,252 cc, 148 bhp, 128 Nm
All models come with a 6-speed gearbox. The Honda Africa Twin also offers an automatic DCT option.
Chassis and Cycle Parts
Each motorcycle’s chassis design caters to its specific character and application. All feature USD forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The BMW R 1300 GS stands out with its unique EVO-Telelever front suspension and EVO-Paralever rear suspension.
Comparative Chassis and Suspension:
- BMW R 1300 GS: Two-part frame, EVO-Telelever front, EVO-Paralever rear
- Triumph Tiger 1200: Tubular steel frame, semi-active damping USD forks, semi-active damping monoshock
- Honda Africa Twin: Semi-double cradle frame, USD forks, Pro-link suspension
- Ducati Multistrada V4: Aluminium monocoque frame, fully-adjustable USD forks and monoshock
- Harley-Davidson Pan America: Steel trellis frame, electronically adjustable USD forks, linkage-mounted monoshock
Dimensions and Weight
The BMW R 1300 GS is one of the lighter models, with a kerb weight of 237 kg. The Ducati Multistrada V4 is the lightest at 228 kg, while the Honda Africa Twin and Harley-Davidson Pan America are the heaviest.
Comparative Dimensions:
- BMW R 1300 GS: 237 kg, 850 mm seat height, 19-liter fuel capacity
- Triumph Tiger 1200: 245 kg, 850 mm seat height, 20-liter fuel capacity
- Honda Africa Twin: 239 kg (manual), 249 kg (DCT), 810 mm seat height, 24.5-liter fuel capacity
- Ducati Multistrada V4: 228 kg, 840 mm seat height, 22-liter fuel capacity
- Harley-Davidson Pan America: 258 kg, 850 mm seat height, 21.2-liter fuel capacity
Tyres and Brakes
The tyre specifications vary across models, but all feature strong braking systems with twin disc setups at the front and single discs at the rear. The BMW R 1300 GS has the largest rear disc brake among the competitors.
Comparative Tyre and Brake Details:
- BMW R 1300 GS: 120/70 R19 front, 170/60 R17 rear, 310 mm front discs, 285 mm rear disc
- Triumph Tiger 1200: 120/70 R19 front, 150/70 R18 rear, 320 mm front discs, 282 mm rear disc
- Honda Africa Twin: 90/90-21 front, 150/70 R18 rear, 310 mm front discs, 265 mm rear disc
- Ducati Multistrada V4: 120/70 ZR19 front, 170/60 ZR17 rear, 320 mm front discs, 265 mm rear disc
- Harley-Davidson Pan America: 120/70 R19 front, 170/60 R17 rear, 320 mm front discs, 280 mm rear disc
Features and Equipment
Each bike in this comparison offers a comprehensive set of features and equipment. All models come with fully digital TFT displays. Common features include cruise control, throttle-by-wire, traction control, and multiple ride modes. Some models offer additional features like heated seats and grips.
Comparative Features:
- BMW R 1300 GS: Fully digital TFT display, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, traction control, ride modes, heated seats, heated grips
- Triumph Tiger 1200: Fully digital TFT display, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, traction control, ride modes, heated seats, heated grips
- Honda Africa Twin: Fully digital TFT display, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, traction control, ride modes, heated grips
- Ducati Multistrada V4: Fully digital TFT display, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, traction control, ride modes, heated seats, heated grips, wheelie control
- Harley-Davidson Pan America: Fully digital TFT display, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, traction control, ride modes, heated seats, heated grips
Conclusion
The BMW R 1300 GS holds its own in a competitive field, offering robust engine performance, innovative suspension systems, and comprehensive features. While it may not have the highest power output, its torque and overall package make it a strong contender. Each rival brings unique strengths, making the final choice dependent on specific preferences and requirements. Read more The Fitness Guru Behind Virat Kohli’s Athletic Prowess
Source https://www.carandbike.com/
