Key points
- The BMW R 1250 GS is a great choice for riders who want a comfortable and versatile adventure motorcycle.
- The HP version of the bike is a better choice for riders who want a more performance-oriented adventure motorcycle.
- The GS is a better choice for long-distance touring because it is more comfortable and has a longer range.
The BMW R 1250 GS and HP are two of the most popular adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a unique blend of performance, comfort, and versatility, but there are some key differences between them. In this blog post, we will compare the BMW R 1250 GS vs. HP and help you decide which bike is right for you.
Engine and Performance
The BMW R 1250 GS is powered by a 1254cc boxer-twin engine that produces 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The HP version of the bike gets a slight bump in power, with 143 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. Both bikes have a six-speed transmission and shaft drive.
In terms of performance, the HP is the clear winner. It has more power and torque than the GS, and it can accelerate faster and reach a higher top speed. However, the GS is still a very capable bike, and it can easily handle most riding conditions.
Suspension and Handling
The BMW R 1250 GS has a Telelever front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension. The HP version of the bike gets an upgraded suspension system with electronically adjustable damping.
The GS’s suspension is designed for comfort and stability, while the HP’s suspension is more performance-oriented. The HP’s suspension can be adjusted to suit your riding style and the terrain you’re riding on.
In terms of handling, the HP is more agile and responsive than the GS. However, the GS is still a very capable bike, and it can handle most riding conditions.
Brakes
The BMW R 1250 GS has dual 320mm front brakes and a single 276mm rear brake. The HP version of the bike gets upgraded brakes with larger rotors and more powerful calipers.
The HP’s brakes are more powerful and provide better stopping power than the GS’s brakes. However, the GS’s brakes are still adequate for most riding conditions.
Features
The BMW R 1250 GS comes standard with a variety of features, including:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Traction control (TC)
- Hill start assist
- Cruise control
- Heated grips
- Electronic suspension adjustment (ESA)
The HP version of the bike gets a few additional features, including:
- Dynamic ESA
- Riding modes
- Quickshifter
- Launch control
- Hill descent control
Price
The BMW R 1250 GS starts at $17,495. The HP version of the bike starts at $19,995.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The BMW R 1250 GS is a great choice for riders who want a comfortable and versatile adventure motorcycle. It’s perfect for long-distance touring, commuting, and off-road riding.
The HP version of the bike is a better choice for riders who want a more performance-oriented adventure motorcycle. It has more power, better suspension, and more features than the GS.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for their performance, handling, and features.
Wrap-Up: BMW R 1250 GS vs. HP – The Ultimate Adventure Showdown
The BMW R 1250 GS and HP are both excellent adventure motorcycles. However, they have different strengths and weaknesses. The GS is more comfortable and versatile, while the HP is more powerful and performance-oriented. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them.
Questions You May Have
Q: What is the difference between the BMW R 1250 GS and HP?
A: The HP version of the bike gets a slight bump in power, with 143 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. It also gets an upgraded suspension system with electronically adjustable damping, upgraded brakes with larger rotors and more powerful calipers, and a few additional features, including dynamic ESA, riding modes, quickshifter, launch control, and hill descent control.
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance touring?
A: The GS is a better choice for long-distance touring because it is more comfortable and has a longer range.
Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The HP is a better choice for off-road riding because it has more power, better suspension, and more features that are designed for off-road riding.
Q: Which bike is better for commuting?
A: The GS is a better choice for commuting because it is more comfortable and has a lower price point.
Q: Which bike is better for beginners?
A: The GS is a better choice for beginners because it is easier to ride and has a lower price point.
