Quick Analysis
BMW R 1300 GS
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH TIGER 1200 GT EXPLORER
13.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air and liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 1,300 cc | 1160 cc |
| Engine Type | Two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine | 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Power | 145.48 bhp @ 7750 rpm | 150PS / 148bhp (110.4kW) @ 9,000rpm |
| Torque | 149 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 130 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 20 L |
| Mileage | 20.83 kmpl | 18.8 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 237 | 246 (90% fuel - mass in running order) |
| Seat Height | 850 | Adjustable 850/870 |
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 | Brembo M4.30 Stylema monoblock radial calipers, OC-ABS, twin 320mm floating discs. Magura HC1 span adjustable radial master cylinder with separate reservoir. |
| Front Suspension | Central Shock Absorber | Showa 49mm, semi-active damping USD forks. 200mm travel. |
| Rear Brake | Single disc brake, diameter 285 mm, 2-piston floating caliper | Brembo single piston caliper, OC-ABS, single 282mm disc. Rear master cylinder with remote reservoir. |
| Rear Suspension | Single-sided Swingarm | 200mm wheel travel Showa semi-active damping monoshock, with automatic electronic preload adjustment and New Active Preload Reduction feature. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 - R19 | Metzeler Tourance, 120/70R19 (M/C 60V TL) |
| Rear Tyre | 170/60 - R17 | Metzeler Tourance, 150/70R18 (M/C 70V TL) |
| 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 | — |
| 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 | Snowdonia White | #F5F5F5 |
| 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 | Very heavy and bulky - With a weight of around 250+ kg, it can feel difficult to handle at low speeds or while parking. Not easy in city traffic - Its size and weight make it less practical for tight urban conditions and stop-and-go traffic Vibrations at certain speeds - Some reviews mention slight vibrations through the seat or frame, especially during long highway runs. Expensive purchase and ownership - It sits in the premium segment, with higher service and maintenance costs Electronics not always perfect - Features like Bluetooth connectivity and navigation can be inconsistent or slow at times. Less off-road focused than Rally variants - The GT Explorer is mainly road-biased, so it is not ideal for serious off-road riding |
| 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 Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is a large-capacity adventure touring motorcycle designed mainly for long-distance road riding, with a strong focus on comfort, range, and technology. It is powered by a 1160cc inline three-cylinder engine that produces around 147–150 PS and 130 Nm of torque, delivering a smooth yet strong performance across the rev range. The engine uses electronic fuel injection and ride-by-wire throttle, which helps provide controlled and predictable power delivery whether riding slowly in traffic or cruising at higher speeds. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a shaft drive system, which reduces maintenance compared to chain-driven bikes and makes it more suitable for long-distance touring. The chassis is built using a tubular steel frame with an aluminium subframe, designed to balance strength and weight. The GT Explorer uses 19-inch front and 18-inch rear alloy wheels, which give it a more road-focused setup compared to off-road-oriented adventure bikes. This setup improves stability on highways and makes the bike feel more planted while cornering on paved roads. The suspension system is a key feature, with semi-active Showa suspension offering around 200 mm of travel. This system automatically adjusts damping based on road conditions and load, helping maintain a comfortable ride while still keeping the bike stable during faster riding. The riding position is upright and designed for long journeys. The wide handlebar, adjustable seat height (around 850–870 mm), and large bodywork provide a relaxed and commanding riding posture. The bike also features an adjustable windscreen to reduce wind pressure, which is especially useful on highways. One of the main highlights of the GT Explorer variant is its 30-litre fuel tank, which offers a much longer riding range compared to standard variants, making it suitable for extended touring without frequent fuel stops. However, the large tank and overall build contribute to a higher weight of around 256 kg, which can make the bike feel heavy at low speeds or in tight spaces. In terms of features, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes with a wide range of modern electronics. It includes multiple riding modes, traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, hill hold control, and a 7-inch TFT display with connectivity features. It also includes advanced systems like blind-spot radar and tyre pressure monitoring, which add to rider awareness and convenience during long rides. The braking system uses high-spec Brembo components, providing strong and controlled stopping power for a bike of this size. Overall, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is designed to combine strong engine performance, long-distance comfort, and advanced touring features, with a setup that clearly prioritises stable and capable road riding over aggressive off-road use. |
| 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 | The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is a road-focused adventure tourer designed mainly for long-distance riding and highway comfort. It is powered by a 1160cc inline three-cylinder engine that delivers strong and smooth performance, with enough torque for relaxed cruising and quick acceleration when needed. The bike uses a shaft drive and a 6-speed gearbox, which adds to its touring practicality by reducing maintenance. Its semi-active suspension helps maintain a comfortable and stable ride over long distances, while the 19-inch front wheel setup gives it a more road-oriented feel. A key highlight is the large 30-litre fuel tank, which allows extended travel without frequent fuel stops. The upright riding posture, adjustable windscreen, and electronic features like riding modes and traction control support comfort and usability. However, its size and weight can make it feel less manageable in city traffic, and it is better suited for open roads than tight urban conditions., 4.5, 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 capacity of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes with a 1160cc, liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder engine. Q: What is the mileage of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer typically delivers around 16–20 km/l in real-world riding, depending on speed, load, and riding style. Q: What is the top speed of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a top speed of around 220 km/h, depending on conditions and rider input. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a 30-litre fuel tank, which supports long-distance touring with fewer fuel stops. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer good for long-distance touring? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is designed for touring, offering comfort features like cruise control, heated grips, and wind protection. Q: What is the seat height of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has an adjustable seat height ranging from approximately 835 mm to 855 mm. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer have cruise control? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes with cruise control as standard. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer suitable for off-road riding? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is mainly road-focused and can handle light off-road use, but it is not designed for serious off-road riding. Q: What is the weight of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a wet weight of around 255–261 kg, depending on the model year. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer have a quickshifter? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer comes with a standard up-and-down quickshifter. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Triple Black | 2200000 Trophy | 2225000 Option 719 Tramuntana | 2425000 | GT EXPLORER | 2089000 RALLY EXPLORER | 2229000 RALLY PRO | 2079000 GT PRO | 1939000 |
| 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 | Strong and versatile triple-cylinder engine - The 1160cc engine delivers smooth yet powerful performance with strong torque across the rev range, making it suitable for both relaxed touring and highway riding. Excellent long-distance comfort - Upright ergonomics, wide seat, heated features, and wind protection make it very comfortable for long rides and touring. Stable and confident highway performance - The bike feels planted at high speeds and remains composed on highways and sweeping corners. Advanced electronics and touring features - Comes with cruise control, riding modes, TFT display, and features like blind-spot radar (Explorer variant), improving usability. Semi-active suspension works well - The electronic suspension adjusts to conditions and helps balance comfort with control on different road surfaces. Large fuel tank for touring - The Explorer variant has a 30L fuel tank, which supports long-distance travel with fewer fuel stops. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start only |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 6 speed |
