Quick Analysis
BMW R 1300 GS
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH TIGER 1200 RALLY 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 (100PS rain mode) |
| Torque | 149 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 130 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 30 L |
| Mileage | 20.83 kmpl | 18kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 237 | 246 |
| Seat Height | 850 | Adjustable 875/895 |
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. 220mm 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 | 220mm 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 Karoo Street, 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 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/1.png |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Triple-black.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3.png |
| 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 | #0F0F0F Matt Khaki | #6B705C Matt Sandstorm | #C2A57B |
| 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 demanding at low speeds - The bike weighs around 250 kg, which can make it difficult to manage in tight spaces or slow riding. Tall seat height can be challenging - The high seat makes it less accessible for shorter riders, especially in traffic or uneven terrain. Wide fuel tank affects movement - The larger tank increases range but can restrict rider movement slightly during off-road riding. Expensive purchase and ownership - It sits in the premium segment, with higher maintenance and running costs compared to smaller ADV bikes Requires skill for off-road riding - Despite its capability, its size and weight mean it is not very forgiving for less experienced riders Not as agile on-road as lighter bikes - Handling is stable but not very sharp when compared to lighter or road-focused motorcycles |
| 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 Rally Explorer is a large-capacity adventure motorcycle designed to handle a mix of long-distance touring and serious off-road riding. It is powered by a 1160cc inline three-cylinder engine that produces around 148 bhp and 130 Nm of torque. This engine uses a T-plane crankshaft design, which gives it a different feel compared to traditional triple-cylinder engines. At lower speeds, it behaves more like a twin-cylinder engine with strong torque, which helps in better control on rough terrain, while at higher speeds it delivers smooth and strong acceleration suitable for highway riding. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a shaft drive system, which reduces maintenance compared to chain-driven setups and makes it more practical for long journeys. The bike is built on a tubular steel frame with a bolt-on aluminium subframe, designed to balance strength and weight. It uses a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel with tubeless spoked rims, which are more suitable for off-road riding as they help the bike handle obstacles like rocks, sand, and uneven surfaces more effectively. The suspension system includes semi-active Showa suspension with long travel, allowing it to absorb bumps and rough terrain while maintaining stability. This setup also adjusts automatically based on road conditions and load, helping improve comfort during long rides. The riding position is upright and designed for both seated and standing riding, which is important for off-road use. The wide handlebar and adjustable seat height, ranging approximately from 875 mm to 895 mm, provide flexibility for different riders, although the height may feel challenging for shorter riders. The bike also comes with an adjustable windscreen to reduce wind pressure during highway riding. One of the key highlights of the Rally Explorer is its large 30-litre fuel tank, which allows for extended range and makes it suitable for long-distance touring without frequent refuelling stops. In terms of features, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is equipped with a wide range of modern electronics. It includes multiple riding modes such as Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, and Off-Road Pro, allowing the rider to adjust the bike’s behaviour depending on the terrain. It also comes with traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, and a 7-inch TFT display that provides information and connectivity features. Additional features like heated grips and seats improve comfort, especially during long rides or colder conditions. The braking system uses dual front disc brakes with Brembo calipers, providing strong and consistent stopping power. The overall weight of the bike is around 250 kg, which gives it stability at higher speeds but can make it feel heavy at low speeds or in tight spaces. The design reflects its purpose, with a tall stance and rugged styling suited for adventure riding. Overall, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is built to offer a combination of performance, comfort, and off-road capability, making it suitable for riders who want a motorcycle that can handle a wide range of riding conditions. |
| 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 Rally Explorer is a large-capacity adventure motorcycle built to handle demanding off-road terrain while still offering strong touring capability. It is powered by a 1160cc inline three-cylinder engine producing around 148 bhp and 130 Nm, delivering a broad spread of torque with a T-plane crank that gives better low-speed control and a strong top-end response. The bike uses a 21-inch front wheel with tubeless spoked rims and long-travel semi-active Showa suspension, which helps it maintain stability and control over rough surfaces like gravel, rocks, and uneven trails. A key highlight is the large 30-litre fuel tank, which significantly extends riding range and makes it more suitable for long-distance travel without frequent stops. The riding position is upright and designed for both seated and standing riding, supported by wide handlebars and features like heated seats, cruise control, and multiple riding modes. On the road, it remains stable and composed rather than sharp, reflecting its focus on versatility across different terrains. However, its tall seat height and overall weight can make it feel demanding at low speeds or for shorter riders. Overall, the Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is designed to combine off-road capability, long-range touring, and modern electronics in a package that prioritises control and adaptability across varied riding conditions., 4.6, 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 Rally Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer comes with a 1160cc, liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder engine. Q: What is the mileage of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer typically delivers around 16–20 km/l in real-world riding, depending on terrain, load, and riding style. Q: What is the top speed of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally 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 Rally Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer comes with a 30-litre fuel tank, which supports long-distance touring with fewer fuel stops. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer good for off-road riding? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is designed for serious off-road use, with a 21-inch front wheel, long-travel suspension, and off-road riding modes. Q: What is the seat height of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer has an adjustable seat height ranging from approximately 875 mm to 895 mm. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer suitable for beginners? A: No, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is not beginner-friendly due to its weight, tall seat height, and powerful engine. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer have cruise control? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer comes with cruise control as standard. Q: What is the weight of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer has a wet weight of around 249–261 kg, depending on the model year. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Triple Black | 2200000 Trophy | 2225000 Option 719 Tramuntana | 2425000 | RALLY EXPLORER | 2229000 GT EXPLORER | 2089000 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 characterful triple-cylinder engine - The 1160cc T-plane engine delivers strong torque at low speeds and smooth power higher up, making it usable across off-road and highway riding. Excellent long-distance touring capability - The Rally Explorer’s large fuel tank (around 30L) allows very long range, making it ideal for extended touring. High-quality suspension and ride comfort - Semi-active Showa suspension absorbs rough terrain well and keeps the bike stable across different surfaces. Very capable off-road for its size - With a 21-inch front wheel and long-travel suspension, it handles trails, gravel, and uneven terrain with confidence. Comfortable ergonomics and riding position - Upright posture, adjustable seat, and wide handlebar make it suitable for long rides and standing riding off-road. Premium build quality and components - High-end components like Brembo brakes and overall fit and finish are consistently praised. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 6 speed |
