Bikes Overview
In the realm of mid-size adventure touring, two motorcycles stand out: the BMW F 850 GS and the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport. Both bikes embody the spirit of adventure, promising to take riders on thrilling journeys across diverse landscapes.
The BMW F 850 GS, a member of BMW’s GS family, brings the brand’s expertise in crafting adventure machines to the mid-size segment. With its rugged design, advanced technology, and proven reliability, the F 850 GS aims to set the benchmark for adventure touring performance.
On the other hand, the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport represents the British brand’s entry into the competitive mid-size adventure touring market. Drawing from Triumph’s heritage and engineering prowess, the Tiger 850 Sport seeks to offer a perfect blend of on-road refinement and off-road capability.
Engine and Performance Comparison
At the heart of these adventure tourers lie their powerful and refined engines. Let’s dive into the specifics:
| Attribute | BMW F 850 GS | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport |
| Engine Type | Water-cooled 4-Stroke In-line Two-cylinder Engine, Four Valves Per Cylinder, Two Overhead Camshafts, Dry Sump Lubrication | Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Displacement | 853 cc | 888 cc |
| Peak Power | 95.17 PS @ 8250 rpm | 85 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 92 Nm @ 6250 rpm | 82 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Fuel Supply | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled | Liquid Cooled |
The BMW F 850 GS is powered by an 853cc, water-cooled, 4-stroke, in-line two-cylinder engine with four valves per cylinder and two overhead camshafts. This advanced engine configuration, coupled with dry sump lubrication, ensures optimal performance and reliability. The F 850 GS delivers an impressive 95.17 PS of peak power at 8,250 rpm and a hefty 92 Nm of torque at 6,250 rpm.
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, on the other hand, employs an 888cc, liquid-cooled, 12-valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder engine. Known for its smooth power delivery and characterful sound, this engine produces a respectable 85 PS of peak power at 8,500 rpm and 82 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.
Both bikes utilize fuel injection systems for precise throttle response and efficient fuel management. The liquid cooling systems ensure optimal engine temperature regulation, enabling consistent performance even in demanding riding conditions.
Suspension and Handling Comparison
Adventure touring demands a suspension setup that can handle a wide range of terrains while providing comfort and control. Let’s compare how these bikes fare:
| Attribute | BMW F 850 GS | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport |
| Suspension Front | Upside-Down Telescopic Fork, Ø 43 mm | Marzocchi 45mm upside down forks |
| Suspension Rear | Cast aluminium Dual Swing Arm, Central WAD Spring Strut, Spring Pre-Load Hydraulically Adjustable, Rebound Damping Adjustable | Marzocchi rear suspension unit, manual preload adjustment |
The BMW F 850 GS boasts a premium suspension setup, featuring an upside-down telescopic fork with a substantial 43 mm diameter at the front. This fork provides excellent stiffness and precise handling, inspiring confidence in the rider. The rear suspension consists of a cast aluminum dual swingarm with a central WAD spring strut, offering hydraulic preload and rebound damping adjustability for fine-tuning the ride characteristics.
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport employs Marzocchi suspension components, with 45 mm upside-down forks at the front and a Marzocchi rear suspension unit with manual preload adjustment. While the suspension may not offer the same level of adjustability as the BMW, it still delivers a comfortable and capable ride across various terrains.
The Tiger 850 Sport has a wheelbase of 1,556 mm, which contributes to its stability at higher speeds and enhances its overall handling dynamics. The specific wheelbase and ground clearance figures for the F 850 GS are not provided in the given data.
Advanced Electronics and Rider Aids Comparison
Modern adventure tourers often come equipped with advanced electronics and rider aids to enhance safety, control, and convenience. Let’s see how the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport stack up:
| Attribute | BMW F 850 GS | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport |
| Display | N/A | 5″ TFT screen |
Both the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport come standard with dual-channel ABS, providing enhanced braking safety in various conditions. However, the Tiger 850 Sport takes the lead by offering traction control as standard, which aids in managing rear wheel slip on low-traction surfaces, enhancing rider confidence and control.
In terms of instrumentation, the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport features a modern 5-inch TFT screen that provides a wealth of information and allows for easy navigation through the bike’s settings. The display on the BMW F 850 GS is not specified in the given data.
While both bikes offer essential electronic aids, they may differ in terms of additional features like ride modes, customizable settings, or smartphone connectivity, which are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
Ergonomics and Comfort Comparison
Adventure touring often involves long hours in the saddle, traversing varied terrains. Ergonomics and comfort play a vital role in ensuring a pleasant and fatigue-free riding experience. Let’s compare the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport in this regard:
| Attribute | BMW F 850 GS | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport |
| Seat Type | Single | Split |
| Saddle Height | 860 mm | 840 mm |
The BMW F 850 GS features a single-piece seat, which may limit the rider’s ability to move around and find the most comfortable position during long rides. On the other hand, the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport offers a split seat design, allowing riders to adjust their seating position and find the optimal comfort level.
In terms of saddle height, the BMW F 850 GS sits slightly taller at 860 mm compared to the Tiger 850 Sport’s 840 mm. The lower seat height of the Tiger 850 Sport may be more accommodating for riders of varying heights, providing easier reach to the ground.
The BMW F 850 GS has a kerb weight of 233 kg, which is on the heavier side for an adventure tourer. The specific kerb weight of the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport is not provided.
Both bikes are expected to offer an upright and commanding riding position, with a comfortable reach to the handlebars and footpegs. The windscreens on both models should provide adequate wind protection, although the effectiveness may vary based on the rider’s height and preferred riding style.
Adventure Readiness and Gear Compatibility
Adventure tourers are designed to tackle a variety of terrains and weather conditions. Let’s assess how well-equipped the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport are for adventure riding:
| Attribute | BMW F 850 GS | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport |
| Wheels Type | Spoke | Alloy |
| Fuel Capacity | 15 L | 20 L |
The BMW F 850 GS comes equipped with spoke wheels, which are well-suited for off-road adventures. Spoke wheels offer greater flexibility and are easier to repair in case of damage during off-road excursions. The F 850 GS is fitted with a 90/90-21 front tire and a 150/70-17 rear tire, providing a balance of on-road stability and off-road traction.
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, on the other hand, features alloy wheels, which are lightweight and offer good on-road performance. However, alloy wheels may be more susceptible to damage in rough off-road conditions. The specific tire sizes for the Tiger 850 Sport are not provided in the given data.
In terms of fuel capacity, the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport has an advantage with its 20-liter fuel tank compared to the BMW F 850 GS’s 15-liter capacity. The larger fuel tank of the Tiger 850 Sport allows for extended range and fewer fuel stops during long-distance adventures.
Both bikes come with basic protection features like engine guards and hand guards. However, serious adventurers may want to invest in additional accessories like crash bars, skid plates, and luggage systems to enhance their bike’s adventure readiness.
Value and Ownership Comparison
When considering an adventure tourer, it’s essential to evaluate the overall value proposition and ownership experience. Let’s compare the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport in this context:
| Attribute | BMW F 850 GS | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport |
| Price | Rs. 12,95,000 | Rs. 11,95,000 |
| Number of Variants | 1 | 1 |
| Variant Names and Prices | BMW F 850 GS Pro – Rs. 12,95,000 | Triumph Tiger 850 Sport STD – Rs. 11,95,000 |
The BMW F 850 GS Pro variant is priced at Rs. 12,95,000, positioning it at the higher end of the mid-size adventure tourer segment. The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, available in a single standard variant, comes in at a slightly lower price point of Rs. 11,95,000.
Both bikes are backed by renowned brands known for their quality, reliability, and extensive dealership networks. BMW Motorrad and Triumph have a strong presence in the premium motorcycle market, ensuring access to skilled service personnel and genuine spare parts.
However, the BMW F 850 GS may have an edge in terms of brand perception and the availability of a wider range of accessories and aftermarket support, given BMW’s longer history in the adventure touring segment.
Ultimately, the choice between the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport will depend on the rider’s personal preferences, brand loyalty, and specific requirements. Both bikes offer a compelling package and are capable of delivering memorable adventures.
Conclusion
After a thorough comparison of the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, it’s evident that both bikes are highly capable adventure tourers with their own strengths and appeals. The BMW F 850 GS showcases the brand’s expertise in the segment, offering advanced technology, premium components, and a proven track record. Its powerful engine, adjustable suspension, and spoke wheels make it well-suited for riders who prioritize off-road performance and long-distance touring capabilities.
On the other hand, the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport brings a fresh perspective to the mid-size adventure touring market. With its characterful engine, comfortable ergonomics, and modern features like traction control and a TFT display, the Tiger 850 Sport appeals to riders who seek a balance of on-road refinement and off-road prowess. Its larger fuel tank and lower seat height may be particularly attractive to those who prioritize range and accessibility.
Ultimately, the decision between the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 850 Sport will come down to the rider’s individual preferences, riding style, and budget. Both bikes offer a compelling package and are capable of delivering unforgettable adventures across diverse landscapes.
Before making a final choice, it is recommended to test-ride both motorcycles, evaluate their ergonomics, and assess their suitability for the intended type of riding. By considering factors such as engine performance, suspension setup, off-road capability, and overall value, adventure enthusiasts can make an informed decision and embark on thrilling journeys with either the BMW F 850 GS or the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport.