Quick Analysis
BMW R 1300 GS
20.5 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 BLACK
10.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air and liquid-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 1,300 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | Two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine | SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 145.48 bhp @ 7750 rpm | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6550 rpm |
| Torque | 149 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 14.5 L |
| Mileage | 20.83 kmpl | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 237 | 236 |
| Seat Height | 850 | 790 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual channel |
| Front Brake | Twin disc brake, semi-floating brake discs, diameter 310 mm, 4-piston radial brake caliper | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | Central Shock Absorber | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | Single disc brake, diameter 285 mm, 2-piston floating caliper | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Single-sided Swingarm | Twin RSU’s, with pre-load adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 - R19 | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | 170/60 - R17 | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | DRLs LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 10 Ah | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Aurelius-Green.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Jet-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Triple-black.avif | — |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GS-Trophy.avif | — |
| Cluster | Digital | — |
| Color Options | Light white | #F5F5F5 Black Storm Metallic | #1B1B1B Racing Blue Metallic | #15327E Aurelius Green Metallic | #3A4B3B,#D4AF37 | Jet Black | #0A0A0A Graphite and Matt Graphite | #3A3A3A |
| Cons | Significantly expensive compared to many adventure bike alternatives • Heavy motorcycle, especially for slow-speed manoeuvring and off-road beginners • Optional accessories and packages increase cost quickly • The boxer engine’s width can feel bulky in narrow traffic • Heat is noticeable in Indian summers at crawling speeds • Pillion seat comfort is good but not exceptional without optional top-box/backrest • Maintenance and parts costs are on the premium side | Weight and low-speed handling: The T120 is comparatively heavy and some riders find it less nimble in slow manoeuvres or tight traffic. Engine heat and comfort concerns in traffic: In stop-and-go city conditions, the engine and radiator heat can become noticeable and reduce comfort. Not a high-end sport performer: While competent, it lacks the aggressive performance or sport-bike handling of more focused machines, which may disappoint those seeking sharp cornering thrills. Premium cost and ownership aspects: As a premium modern-classic, it comes with higher pricing and possibly higher maintenance/spare costs compared to more mainstream bikes. |
| Detailed Overview | The BMW R 1300 GS is built around a new 1,300cc two-cylinder boxer engine, which is the most powerful of its kind from the brand to date. It produces approximately 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. A major change in this generation is the placement of the gearbox underneath the engine, a design choice that makes the entire powertrain more compact and helps centralize the bike’s weight. In terms of physical build, the motorcycle uses a two-part frame consisting of a main steel shell and a bolted rear subframe. It features a unique suspension system: the EVO-Telelever at the front and EVO-Paralever at the rear, which together provide a travel of 190 mm and 200 mm, respectively. The standard bike has a kerb weight of 237 kg (fully fueled) and a fuel tank capacity of 19 litres, while the more rugged GS Adventure variant increases this capacity to 30 litres and weighs 269 kg. For everyday usability, the seat height is set at 850 mm on the standard model, though an optional Adaptive Vehicle Height Control system can automatically lower the bike to 820 mm when coming to a stop. Braking is handled by twin 310 mm discs at the front with four-piston radial calipers and a single 285 mm disc at the rear, all governed by a lean-angle sensitive ABS system. The cockpit is centered around a 6.5-inch (or optional 10.25-inch) full-color TFT display that includes Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and media. It comes with four standard riding modes, Eco, Rain, Road, and Enduro, which adjust the throttle response and traction control. Other standard electrical features include a full LED matrix headlight, heated grips, keyless ride, and a smartphone charging compartment with a USB socket. | The Triumph Bonneville T120 Black is a modern classic bike that mixes an old-school design with updated mechanical parts. It runs on a 1200 cc parallel-twin engine that makes around 80 PS and 105 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned for strong low-end and mid-range pull, so in daily riding you don’t need to change gears too often, whether you are in city traffic or cruising on the highway. It is not meant for aggressive riding, but more for smooth and steady use. The bike uses a steel frame along with conventional front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. This setup is mainly for comfort, so it works well on normal roads, although sharp bumps and bad patches can still be felt. It gets disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS, which gives controlled and predictable braking. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels also add to its stable and planted feel while riding. In terms of size, the T120 Black is on the heavier side at around 236 kg, which can be noticeable at low speeds and while handling it in tight spaces. The seat height is about 790 mm, so most riders can manage it easily. It comes with a 14.5-litre fuel tank, and in real use, mileage usually stays between 18 to 22 km/l. Ground clearance is around 140 mm, which is fine for regular roads but requires slowing down on bigger speed breakers. For features, the bike keeps things simple. It has a twin-pod semi-digital display that shows basic information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details. It also includes riding modes, traction control, and a torque-assist clutch, but there is no focus on advanced connectivity. Overall, the T120 Black is set up for relaxed riding with simple features, where the focus stays on smooth engine performance and a straightforward riding experience. |
| Expert Review | The BMW R 1300 GS is a massive leap forward for Indian riders who found the previous 1250 model a bit too bulky for our frantic traffic. By shedding significant weight and adopting a more compact frame, it feels much more manageable when you're filtering through city chaos or tackling narrow mountain hairpins. The new engine delivers smooth, predictable power that doesn't feel overwhelming, which is a huge plus on our unpredictable road surfaces. However, the bike’s sophisticated electronics and radar systems might feel like overkill for someone sticking to well-known routes, and the premium price tag remains a high barrier. While the cooling system has improved, the large boxer engine still radiates a fair amount of heat that becomes very noticeable during long waits at Indian traffic signals. It’s a highly capable machine that balances high-tech features with better agility, though it requires a serious financial commitment and an appetite for its unique, modern styling., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | In India, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black fits more into the category of a relaxed, easy-going motorcycle rather than something built for speed. It runs on a 1200 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces strong pull at low speeds, so you don’t have to keep changing gears in traffic or while cruising on highways. The seating position is straight and comfortable, but the overall weight of the bike is quite noticeable, especially in slow city riding or while handling it in tight spaces. The suspension setup is tuned for a softer feel, which works fine on normal roads, but sharp bumps can still be felt. It gets disc brakes on both ends with ABS, which offer steady and controlled braking. The bike also includes features like riding modes, traction control, and a simple digital-analogue display, without going too heavy on electronics. In Indian conditions, it makes more sense for calm rides and weekend use, as daily usage in traffic can feel demanding due to its size and weight., 4.1, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the BMW R 1300 GS? A: The engine capacity is 1,300 cc, featuring a twin-cylinder boxer layout with BMW’s ShiftCam technology. Q: What are the standard riding modes on the BMW R 1300 GS? A: It comes with modes such as Road, Rain, Eco and Enduro. Q: Does the R 1300 GS come with advanced electronics? A: Yes, it includes features like ABS Pro, traction control, dynamic cruise control with brake function, and optional radar-based systems. Q: Is the BMW R 1300 GS seat height manageable for shorter Indian riders? A: Yes, significantly more so than the older models. While the standard BMW R 1300 GS seat height is 850 mm, the new Adaptive Vehicle Height Control system automatically lowers the bike to 820 mm as you slow down or stop. If you opt for the "Low Comfort Seat," it can drop as far as 800 mm, making it much easier to plant your feet firmly at traffic signals or on uneven Indian roads. Q: What is the real-world fuel range of the BMW R 1300 GS on Indian highways? A: The BMW R 1300 GS fuel tank capacity is 19 litres, which is slightly smaller than some long-distance tourers. In Indian conditions, you can expect a real-world range of approximately 320–350 km on a full tank, depending on your riding mode. Q: Is the BMW R 1300 GS maintenance expensive in India? A: Owning a premium machine like the BMW R 1300 GS does come with high-tier maintenance costs. A standard annual service at an authorized BMW Motorrad India workshop typically ranges between ₹18,000 to ₹25,000, covering oil changes and basic checks. | Q: What is the engine specification of the Bonneville T120 Black? A: It features a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, delivering around 80 PS at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the T120 Black? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm and the wet weight is around 236 kg. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and expected mileage of the T120 Black? A: The tank capacity is 14.5 litres, and official fuel consumption is listed as about 4.7 L/100km (~21 km/l) though real-world mileage may vary. Q: What features and rider aids are included on the T120 Black? A: Key features include LED lighting, twin-pod analogue instruments with LCD display, ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, ABS, two riding modes (Road & Rain), and cruise control. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the T120 Black in India (recent model)? A: The 2023 edition of the T120 Black has a starting ex-showroom price of approximately ₹ 11.85 lakh. Q: What wheels and suspension does the T120 Black come with? A: The bike uses 18″ front and 17″ rear wire-spoked wheels. Suspension is 41 mm cartridge front forks and twin RSU rear shocks with preload adjustment. Brakes include twin 310 mm front discs (with Brembo 2-piston floating calipers) and 255 mm rear disc. Q: Is the T120 Black suitable for both city rides and longer road trips? A: Yes, thanks to its high torque engine, comfortable ergonomics, manageable seat height, and modern features (such as cruise control and two riding modes) it’s well-suited for both everyday use and relaxed longer rides. Q: What are the major differences between the T120 Black edition and the standard T120? A: The Black edition retains the same mechanical and specification elements as the standard T120, but offers a darker styling theme (blacked-out engine covers, black rims, black exhaust, dark trims) and sometimes exclusive colour options and finishes. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Triple Black | 2200000 Trophy | 2225000 Option 719 Tramuntana | 2425000 | |1235000 |
| Pros | • Strong and refined 1,300cc boxer engine with excellent low-end and mid-range torque • Noticeably lighter and more agile than the previous R1250GS • Improved dynamic handling thanks to new chassis and updated suspension • Very comfortable riding position suitable for long-distance touring • Advanced electronics including traction control, ABS Pro, radar-based aids (optional), and multiple ride modes • High-quality build and premium materials throughout • Great wind protection and ergonomic improvements for rider comfort • Versatile performance — equally confident on highways, off-road trails, and city traffic • New design is more compact, modern, and sharper • Multiple style variants (Triple Black, Trophy, Option 719) giving different personalities and equipment | Torquey, refined engine: The 1,200 cc parallel twin delivers strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery, making the bike easy to ride and relaxed in every-day use. Excellent build quality & classic styling: With its retro aesthetics (spoke wheels, twin-pod instruments, brushed metal finishes) combined with modern touches, it stands out and carries good craftsmanship. Good ergonomics for many riders: Its relatively low seat height (~790 mm) and relaxed upright riding posture make it accessible and comfortable for commuting or relaxed rides. Modern features despite classic looks: It includes ride-by-wire throttle, dual riding modes, switchable traction control, ABS, and USB charging point, all unintrusive yet present. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 6-speed Manual |
