Bmw R 1250 Gs Vs. Africa Twin: The Ultimate Adventure Bike Showdown

The BMW R 1250 GS and Honda Africa Twin are two of the most iconic adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes are known for their versatility, performance, and comfort, making them ideal for everything from long-distance touring to off-road exploration. But which bike is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the BMW R 1250 GS and the Africa Twin head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.

Engine

The BMW R 1250 GS is powered by a 1,254cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The Africa Twin is powered by a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine that produces 101 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque.

On paper, the R 1250 GS has a clear advantage in terms of power and torque. However, the Africa Twin‘s engine is more refined and fuel-efficient. It also has a lower center of gravity, which makes it easier to handle off-road.

Suspension

The BMW R 1250 GS has a Telelever front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension. The Africa Twin has a Showa inverted fork front suspension and a Pro-Link rear suspension.

Both bikes have excellent suspension systems that provide a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved roads. However, the R 1250 GS’s suspension is more adjustable, which allows you to fine-tune it to your specific needs.

Brakes

The BMW R 1250 GS has dual 320mm front brakes and a single 276mm rear brake. The Africa Twin has dual 310mm front brakes and a single 256mm rear brake.

Both bikes have excellent brakes that provide plenty of stopping power. However, the R 1250 GS’s brakes are more powerful and have a better feel.

Technology

The BMW R 1250 GS is equipped with a wide range of electronic rider aids, including ABS, traction control, hill start assist, and dynamic ESA. The Africa Twin is also equipped with a number of electronic rider aids, including ABS, traction control, and wheelie control.

The R 1250 GS has a more comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids than the Africa Twin. However, the Africa Twin’s electronic rider aids are more user-friendly and easier to adjust.

Comfort

The BMW R 1250 GS is a very comfortable motorcycle. It has a wide, supportive seat, an upright riding position, and a well-padded windshield. The Africa Twin is also a comfortable motorcycle, but it has a narrower seat and a more aggressive riding position.

The R 1250 GS is the better choice for long-distance touring. However, the Africa Twin is the better choice for off-road riding.

Price

The BMW R 1250 GS starts at $17,995. The Africa Twin starts at $14,999.

The R 1250 GS is more expensive than the Africa Twin. However, it also comes with a more comprehensive suite of features and a higher level of performance.

In a nutshell

The BMW R 1250 GS and the Honda Africa Twin are both excellent adventure motorcycles. The R 1250 GS is the better choice for riders who want a powerful, comfortable, and technologically advanced motorcycle. The Africa Twin is the better choice for riders who want a more affordable, fuel-efficient, and off-road capable motorcycle.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can experience firsthand how each bike performs and decide which one is the better fit for your needs.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The BMW R 1250 GS is more powerful than the Africa Twin.

Q: Which bike is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Africa Twin is more fuel-efficient than the R 1250 GS.

Q: Which bike is better off-road?
A: The Africa Twin is better off-road than the R 1250 GS.

Q: Which bike is more comfortable?
A: The R 1250 GS is more comfortable than the Africa Twin.

Q: Which bike is more expensive?
A: The R 1250 GS is more expensive than the Africa Twin.