The prices: BMW F900XR Base Price: €11.700 - standard - doesn't include sidecases. Version in test: €13.800 Side-cases: €350/piece, without the mounting elements Yamaha Tracer GT - €12.500, side-cases included. The Service Costs* BMW F900XR 1,000 km -€150 10,000 km - €150 20,000 km - €361 Yamaha Tracer GT 1,000 km - €100 10,000 km - €128 20,000 km - €192 *Price in Romania. The price might be different depending on the market.
I own a Tracer 900 GT and my bike before was a BMW F 800 GS before. It happened the same to me, I spent some weeks got feeling confident with my Yamaha, but I felt safe with my BMW from the beginning. But, on the other hand, once I have reached that point with my Tracer, I feel it’s my definitive bike!
Juan Carlos López after I dropped an adjustable cartridge kit into the f800gs it became one of the best bikes I’ve ever ridden: only Tenere 700 is lighter, smoother and easier than any modern bike, more reliable than any modern bike, incredible fuel economy and built like a tank. Only drawbacks is that it’s so easy to ride it’s bland, buzzes above 5000rpm and lacks any modern amenities.
Very nice review..I think I'll go for the tracer..my favourite bike.that cp3 engine is a gem. it's nice to watch your reviews because it's in English. I noticed that sometimes you're having a slight difficulty of expressing in English but I understand what you're trying to imply.. Pls keep these subjective and critical reviews coming..we need more comparison reviews like this..
agreed, i've owned a yamaha triple, and a triumph triple before that. They are fun, exciting and full of character. Never rode the 800cc BMW twin, but i found the newer 850cc twin to be.....fine. Perfectly agreeable, plenty of power, refined and smooth. Also, so is a Honda civic. Not for me.
I also tend to lean Yamaha for reliability and servicing reasons. But the bmw is a prettier bike, and I’m smitten. The Chinese built engine is a total turn off
Brendon Wolfel Because the Chinese build engine is not good? Where does this prejudice come from? You think bmw is not as smart as you to put a factory in China in order to ruin its reputation?
Saving this for later. A great deal of riders will be in the position of choosing between these two, so I believe it's an important comparison to be made
i think you are wrong, the bmw base does not bring some extra extras that the yamaha tracer brings, bmw base does not bring cruise control, does not bring adjustable suspension does not bring side cases, I like the channel a lot but the things that have to be said hug
Yamaha was my motorcycle of choice for 3 years and we had a lot of fun together, long trips through Europe but there are some quirks with it. Seat, wind protection, snatchy throttle to name a few. Fun bike no doubt but bmw is more refined, in tune with rider, more civilized beast, so that's why I replaced my yamaha tracer after 19000 km with BMW R1200GS. Then again you get what you payed for. Good review guys
GREAT review guys. Very good. Something I don't quite understand is why reviewers never ever mention the reliability of the bikes they ride. So the bikes being reviewed is better for going around the planet, faster, meaner etc BUT would it need repairing every 5000km? Probably/possibly?? . They are not necessarily renowned for their reliability. Lets be honest here. Yamaha for example are THE best of any brand when it comes to reliability. Surely that is worth mentioning or comparing across bikes? It's just something I (as an end user) really consider as vitally important. Something that seems to be lost on the professional test riding community globally. That's why the MSF is so good.
Very nice and informative comparasion. I am a fan of tracer but the looks of 900xr is amazing. Yamaha should give a facelift to tracer 900 like the 700.
Thank you guys for another great review. Love watching your videos. To be honest, i think we are are all fanboys of the motorcycles we ride. I am definitely BMW biased, but i do believe Drivemag does give unbiased reviews (Bmw has lost tests by them) . Yes, there are subjective factors,ˋbike feels sporty´, but other criteria are just plain facts. If anyone is biased it’s probably we the fanboy community. That said i wish everyone out there safe riding and stay healthy......
Today i own a 2020 yamaha tracer 900 gt because there is no comparison between the bmw f900xr. It is cheaper and better all rounder especially that yamaha engine. I would only trade it for the s1000xr but the price on that is an other level. So Yamaha all day long, very pleased with it.
I have to disagree about the seat on Tracer GT. I have the GT for 2 years now and I didn't find it uncomfortable in any way. I drove it one time for 800 km in one day, no highway just the twisty roads of Slovenian and Italian alps. I also did few rides from 500-600 km or even more and I didn't had any problem with the seat.
I have the 2019 Tracer 900 GT. I tried to let the seat break in for 2000 kilometres. Could not ride more than 1 hour. Very painful ride. The kit from Seat Concepts. com completely transformed the bike. Huge improvement!
Here in the UK these two bikes are almost exactly comparable on price: £11,197 for the Tracer GT and £11,785 for the BMW (after you've made it fair by adding centre stand, cruise control, quickshifter, heated grips and panniers to the BMW). However the BMW feels like a much more premium bike for basically the same money. The Yamaha just feels a bit... old. Also, while the Tracer GT is just about maxed out, if you feel like spending more money then the BMW can be upgraded further with features such as electronic suspension, lean-sensitive ABS, cornering lights and keyless ride. So, you've got more options too.
Great comparison! Giving your opinions and the reasons for those, I can make up my own mind, what's important for me and what is not. Especially coming from two directions, sporting and touring, makes this really interesting. And fun, btw 😎
10:25 You see clearly here how you're not sitting on the right spot. Yamaha made the seat weirdly long and in a shape that makes you naturally sitt on the front part of the seat, while the seat is much more comfortable in the back. I have the same issue with my 2019 MT-09. Considering the Tracer 900 GT costs the same as the base model of the BMW, i'd say you'd be well of if you buy the comfort seat. You have full power in B-Mode by the way. You just need to twist the throttle more then on STD or A-Mode.
Tracer GT has the comfort seat as standard in some cuntries.....they are Gel seats and absolute junk, i purchased the standard seat which is much better.
You don't get full power in B mode. I've edited the throttle maps on mine so could see what the throttle is doing. In B mode, fully turning the throttle only gives you around 80% actual throttle.
So for a bike from 2015 (had an update in 2018) compared to a bike from 2020, i think the Tracer gets good points from you guys. I say: very well done Yamaha.
Is it just me or does the engine on the BMW sound very harsh compared to the Yamaha .Personally I don't like engines that sound like a load of spanners rattling around in a drum. I do think the BMW looks nicer though. Yamaha engine in the BMW would be perfect I think.
Sounds like most of your issues with the Tracer were addressed with the 2021 model. I would be interested in a comparison of the 2021 models of these bikes to the comparable Triumph.
I ride Tracer 700 and am desiring to upgrade to Tracer 900 GT. Took it for a test, did around 80km on it and was laughing all the time so much that almost fell of the bike a few times - it is such a joy to ride. That triple roar and furts and crackles on the overrun are hilarious and savage acceleration is soooo addictive. Another thing, at least with my Tracer and my ex Nmax and now Xmax300 (yes, I do like my BLUCRU) not one single issue so far. Yamaha all the way baby. I have to give to BMW one thing, it is much better looking from the front than Tracer 900, even my Tracer 700 is better looking than it's bigger brother. Front indicator location is diabolical, looks like an after thought, why on earth they couldn't place them like on Tracer 700 is a mystery. But once on it and fire up the beast all is forgotten, just you, the machine and the breeze - EPIC.
Test rode Tracer. The XR was not out when I tried the Yamaha. Although the Tracer is quite an ok bike, the fuelling is horrible. That along with modest suspension tires and brakes as most have noted. I went for a 2019 S1000XR instead in the end. If the 900XR is similar in some respects to the 1kXR, the fuelling should be better than on the Tracer but not ideal. Still went for a remap. Also Gear shift assist pro is not great imo. Solved it with the same Brentuning map. Tracer does not have cornering ABS also. And BMW electronics are generally much more seamless, overall just they just do the job better. If your budget is around the price point of these two bikes, personally would go with the Yamaha. If you have a bit more money to play with, S1000XR :)
Very good video! Comprehensive opinions on what you liked and disliked for each bike. Listening to your comments, I would probably go for the BMW, but would have to have the sidecases. I also need good protection from the wind and rain,, where I live we receive frequent hail storms in the summer. My last bike was a Harley Davidson FXDX-T (Super Glide T-Sport) and very much loved riding it. It's getting harder to find a good sport touring motorcycle that doesn't look like a sport bike with a little tiny wind screen. I keep looking. Thanks for the great reviews.
You are not alone. These guys are the same guys that pit BMW's S1000RR against panigale v4r and actually tried to make the v4r sound like ordinary bike.
@@specialized500 I too am a Tracer 900 GT owner and will back up what @beanburnham01 says. If you want to push the Tracer on a backroad, the stock suspension is harsh and the throttle response is horrible. A stock Tracer is never truly planted and stable in the corner. After a flash and Ohlins it handles much better and FINALLY stays on the intended line.
You can mod just about any vehicle to improve performance in desired areas....that doest take away from the fact that it was a great vehicle in it's intended role from the get-go
Just the service costs make the difference and also the assurance costs make the difference for the Yamaha GT and the Gas tank capacity is better on the Yamaha GT . but I prefer the look of the BMW
The BMW costs alot more than the Tracer GT, especially if you add up all the extras Yamaha includes with the GT. Yamaha also wins on reliability. And oh man that 3-cylinder Tracer engine!! The pull is unreal!! Trust me, GT owner here, you gonna love it!! XD
Edge: BMW. 1. Safety: lean sensitive abs. Too many beautiful curvy (sometimes wet) roads. 2. Off - road ability. Too many beautiful vineyards, waterfalls and lakes to explore. The big negative (F900xr) is its fuel capacity 15.5l. Safe travels 🏍️✌️🏍️
Hi guys, love your reviews. I have a quick question. I use to ride and stop in 2000. I want to re start and I am considering f 900 xr, I guess I will be a beginner again. Do you recommend this bike?
Several others have positive comments about the Yamaha here but I test rode the latest version of it and I thought it was very refined and capable, until I took it on the highway. I found it was very buzzy in the grips, which surprised me since I've read nothing bad about the bike. I've since seen others reviews that also said it has vibration in the handlebars so I don't think it was just the tester I rode. I have a BMW now and although I like it I can't recommend them. The cost of the parts is ridiculous and their reliability is certain questionable. If Yamaha ever brings the Tracer 700 to the USA I am very interested in that.
A little tweak with the suspension could have cured the hard feel. My MT09SP came on hard setting when I bought it new and it was unrideable on normal roads. Putting it in the soft setting as illustrated on the bike manual it was completely transformed. So plush and comfy. My friends riding the tracer as you are reviewing had the same experience. These things should be tested as well. Maybe you would need a longer time with the bikes to do that. If settings are there they should be put into consideration as they really do change a bike.
Get a low mileage, used MV Agusta Turismo Veloce instead. More power, more comfort, more features, more tech, better build & components, faster, sportier, lighter, bigger tank, fitted luggage and better value. Easy to find one with less than 10k miles for less than £10k or Euros. Most will have glitches sorted already. All you need is an MV dealer if you can find one and bravery. :)
Compared to the Tracer, the XR looks a lot more nimble and the headlights and electronics are phenomenal! The Tracer is sportier but I prefer 2-cylinder engines for the sound and characteristic. For ME the XR is the obvious winner. Tracer owners will disagree of course.
When can we get the ultimate review and comparison between he BMW F900 XR, Ducati Multistrada 950 and Triumph Tiger 900? Mainly for commuting and touring.
I just bought the Tracer 900 GT and pick it up tomorrow . Great review from 2 Euro Biking Snobs !!! Lol ... jk . I didn’t even try the bmw for comparison due to the price difference here in Canada . Way more bang for your buck with Yamaha . Also I’ve never had any reliability issues what so ever with any previous Yamaha products including their snowmobiles
I had the Tracer for two years you won't be disappointed the more you ride it the better it gets. Dial-in the front suspension it makes a big difference & changes the stock tires straight away for Rosso or Battlax T31 it was like riding on rails with the Bridgestone's.
The throttles not snatchy, it's instantly responds. The cp3 engine spins up so quick and with fly by wire there's no lag. Stick it in b mode for a while if you've just got the bike, it softens the response.
No, it is snatchy. It is possible to make a high power, responsive engine that also enjoys smooth throttle response. See a KTM 1290, smooth is ALWAYS faster.
Children of Tarmac Fair enough. I guess I should say I don't find mine snatchy. Earlier 2015/16 models yes. Glad KTM have sorted this, they used to be the worst. 1290 is a hellava bike, too much for me though, scary fast.
Those mirrors are terrible on the BMW lol. Should be black, hands down. I thought the Tracer 900 GT came with auto blipper, big shame it does not. BMW seems to make more sense if buying new. I'd rather buy a 2016 Tracer 900 for $6000 USD and put auto blipper/quick shifter/ecu for $600 myself and maybe a seat for $300. So for $7000 or less you have a killer package.
And at the end of the ride, there is the price difference and the standard features on the Yamaha that you have to pay extra for on the BMW correct? e.g. centre stand, heated grips, panniers?
The one dude is so far up BMW' s butt, every review he's all about BMW. How about doing an honest fair review especially the price point and included features. BMW is a beautiful bike but I think Yamaha knocked this one out of the park!
I have the 2019 Tracer 900 GT. Yes the seat sucks. But there is a good simple fix. Seat Concepts. Com has a kit that completely transformers the bike. Huge improvement! So don't let that impact your decision.
Made in China vs. Made in Japan. The choice is clear to me. Bought the Tracer, upgraded suspensions, tires and brakes. Flashed the ECU. Now it is a great sport touring bike!
@@sv7017 Glad to hear it. How long have you had the bike? I am seriously interested, planning to buy a new bike in the spring. The XR seams a bit top heavy, what do you think? Could you share your experience?
spot on. this is the comparison that I'd want to see, primarily to get a feel for the ride quality disparity between the F900XR and the Tiger 900 GT Pro. Which one is better?
@@DriveMagRiders cool, will look forward to it. however, the Tiger GT Pro is the relevant competitor to the F900XR and the Tracer 900, as it gets a road focused suspension setup. Buyers going for this segment may not be interested in Rally Pro. Kindly request you to check if you guys could get hold of a GT Pro and try out how the electronic rear suspension feels from a comfort/sport perspective (which is the USP of that bike - to be able to adjust comfort/sport settings). Thanks a lot, and appreciate the content on your channel.
@@GreenHairyYoda We'll do our best. Unfortunately, we cannot always get what we want for a review. The motorcycle business in our country is not that big, so there are some limitations in test-ride availability
Hi guys, I like your reviews, but please take some feedback as well, when you are putting in comparison touring bikes, touring enduros or touring sport bikes, it will be interesting how these models are carrying the luggage, eg. side bags that comes with the bike and how bike behaves with the passenger behind. Thanks!
Surprised to hear the Tracer seat is uncomfortable while BMW seat is comfortable, because other reviewers criticize the BMW seat for being uncomfortable.
Absolutely right. I did a test ride on the F900XR and its seat is terrible uncomfortable for a tourer. It is quite hard, that is okay, but the shape was surely not made for human anatomy.
@@childrenoftarmac3710 I drove a Tracer today and I totally agree with that comment. Awful seat. I did also drive an 900XR today and the seat was perfect!
@@oliviermissal8739 However, reliability wise Yamaha is just a million times better than BMW. Do not let me start how freaking expensive the repair costs with BMW bikes can get. I see the BMW in front when it comes to character, but regarding the overall value the Yamaha is just hard to beat in my opinion.
Im not anti-BMW, after all, Ive got one and I love it BUT they are a bit fragile and not as reliable as Japanese bikes. As long as you know that and factor it in when you buy then it's all good. I don't think these guys are biased towards BMW. BMW make great bikes but they come at a cost that is not reflected in their reliability. Luckily, their warranty is excellent.
F900XR is poorly made. Absolutely without front suspension adjustment, Chinese engine, unstable foot pegs. Weighs more than a Tracer and it has less fuel capacity. I think we know the winner...
The prices:
BMW F900XR
Base Price: €11.700 - standard - doesn't include sidecases.
Version in test: €13.800
Side-cases: €350/piece, without the mounting elements
Yamaha Tracer GT - €12.500, side-cases included.
The Service Costs*
BMW F900XR
1,000 km -€150
10,000 km - €150
20,000 km - €361
Yamaha Tracer GT
1,000 km - €100
10,000 km - €128
20,000 km - €192
*Price in Romania. The price might be different depending on the market.
20k service for my BMW G310R is 700$
@@trilexi lol, what? What did they do? Put golden oil in it?
@@DerpEye Switzerland prices baby
I own a Tracer 900 GT and my bike before was a BMW F 800 GS before. It happened the same to me, I spent some weeks got feeling confident with my Yamaha, but I felt safe with my BMW from the beginning. But, on the other hand, once I have reached that point with my Tracer, I feel it’s my definitive bike!
Juan Carlos López after I dropped an adjustable cartridge kit into the f800gs it became one of the best bikes I’ve ever ridden: only Tenere 700 is lighter, smoother and easier than any modern bike, more reliable than any modern bike, incredible fuel economy and built like a tank. Only drawbacks is that it’s so easy to ride it’s bland, buzzes above 5000rpm and lacks any modern amenities.
@@khakimzhanmiras Sorted out the suspension and seat on my F700gs and have no desire for anything heavier, after R1200gs's for twenty years.
Very nice review..I think I'll go for the tracer..my favourite bike.that cp3 engine is a gem. it's nice to watch your reviews because it's in English. I noticed that sometimes you're having a slight difficulty of expressing in English but I understand what you're trying to imply.. Pls keep these subjective and critical reviews coming..we need more comparison reviews like this..
The Tracer's 847 cc, inline three-cylinder "CP3" engine can't be beaten. If you have never ridden a triple, you don't know what you are missing.
agreed, i've owned a yamaha triple, and a triumph triple before that. They are fun, exciting and full of character. Never rode the 800cc BMW twin, but i found the newer 850cc twin to be.....fine. Perfectly agreeable, plenty of power, refined and smooth. Also, so is a Honda civic. Not for me.
So true
greg alford the 800 Rotax twin makes the new 850 feel like a Ducati engine character wise 😂
Agree, the CP3 engine is one of the best engines ever made for any application.
Still remember first time I drove a triple. I was sold before I got out of the parking lot...
For the $$$ , reliability, cost of service I like the yamaha . Value for money . Also the engine.
I agree as I own a Tracer GT
But love the new BMW. At least I'd love a test ride on it.
I also tend to lean Yamaha for reliability and servicing reasons. But the bmw is a prettier bike, and I’m smitten. The Chinese built engine is a total turn off
Dealer network, reliability, and piece of mind. Yammie or Honda for me. I own a r3 and tracer gt.
Brendon Wolfel Because the Chinese build engine is not good? Where does this prejudice come from? You think bmw is not as smart as you to put a factory in China in order to ruin its reputation?
@@jdc3636 I agree, so many things are built in China that people don't know but as long as they don't know, they don't care.
Saving this for later. A great deal of riders will be in the position of choosing between these two, so I believe it's an important comparison to be made
Drivemag Riders is like real BMW fanboy's
Never on this channel will a BMW lose a test.
It's getting to obvious
agree
Regarding your comment, BMW lost many of our comparisons. You just have to check them outz
They are deep in BMW's pocket.
Yeah it's getting anoying!! In my opinion the tracer feels beter. BWM fanboys.
@@ampm9771 Agree
i think you are wrong, the bmw base does not bring some extra extras that the yamaha tracer brings, bmw base does not bring cruise control, does not bring adjustable suspension does not bring side cases, I like the channel a lot but the things that have to be said hug
Nuksnenuco it probably doesn’t matter because no one will buy the basic spec BMW
what adjustable suspension? the front forks are not adjustable.
@@ampm9771 The GT has adjustable suspension... Base Tracer does not
@@racerdaveracerdave not thrue.
Yamaha was my motorcycle of choice for 3 years and we had a lot of fun together, long trips through Europe but there are some quirks with it. Seat, wind protection, snatchy throttle to name a few. Fun bike no doubt but bmw is more refined, in tune with rider, more civilized beast, so that's why I replaced my yamaha tracer after 19000 km with BMW R1200GS. Then again you get what you payed for. Good review guys
Yours tracer was not the GT version.
I realized also the same change, I do not regret anything.
GREAT review guys. Very good.
Something I don't quite understand is why reviewers never ever mention the reliability of the bikes they ride. So the bikes being reviewed is better for going around the planet, faster, meaner etc BUT would it need repairing every 5000km? Probably/possibly?? . They are not necessarily renowned for their reliability. Lets be honest here. Yamaha for example are THE best of any brand when it comes to reliability. Surely that is worth mentioning or comparing across bikes?
It's just something I (as an end user) really consider as vitally important. Something that seems to be lost on the professional test riding community globally. That's why the MSF is so good.
I own a Suzuki V-Strom and fully agree with your opinion about reliability ... nothing better than Japanese bikes 😎
Congratulations for this presentation of these bikes ! Greetings from Greece! !
Thank you very much!
2015 FJ-09 I have ridden it 731 miles in one day! No problems at all!
The quality of your reviews just keeps going up! Great job!
Very nice and informative comparasion. I am a fan of tracer but the looks of 900xr is amazing. Yamaha should give a facelift to tracer 900 like the 700.
The looks of the headlight yes. Where is the ass???
Thank you guys for another great review. Love watching your videos. To be honest, i think we are are all fanboys of the motorcycles we ride. I am definitely BMW biased, but i do believe Drivemag does give unbiased reviews (Bmw has lost tests by them) . Yes, there are subjective factors,ˋbike feels sporty´, but other criteria are just plain facts. If anyone is biased it’s probably we the fanboy community. That said i wish everyone out there safe riding and stay healthy......
Your reviews are always the best. Thanks
Today i own a 2020 yamaha tracer 900 gt because there is no comparison between the bmw f900xr. It is cheaper and better all rounder especially that yamaha engine. I would only trade it for the s1000xr but the price on that is an other level. So Yamaha all day long, very pleased with it.
I have to disagree about the seat on Tracer GT. I have the GT for 2 years now and I didn't find it uncomfortable in any way. I drove it one time for 800 km in one day, no highway just the twisty roads of Slovenian and Italian alps. I also did few rides from 500-600 km or even more and I didn't had any problem with the seat.
agree. I needed to get used with the unusual shape of the seat first until I could enjoy riding.
Seats are always a personal thing. Some people will get uncomfortable on a Honda Goldwing,others will ride a old dirt bike all day long.
I have the 2019 Tracer 900 GT. I tried to let the seat break in for 2000 kilometres. Could not ride more than 1 hour. Very painful ride. The kit from Seat Concepts. com completely transformed the bike. Huge improvement!
Here in the UK these two bikes are almost exactly comparable on price: £11,197 for the Tracer GT and £11,785 for the BMW (after you've made it fair by adding centre stand, cruise control, quickshifter, heated grips and panniers to the BMW).
However the BMW feels like a much more premium bike for basically the same money. The Yamaha just feels a bit... old.
Also, while the Tracer GT is just about maxed out, if you feel like spending more money then the BMW can be upgraded further with features such as electronic suspension, lean-sensitive ABS, cornering lights and keyless ride. So, you've got more options too.
BMW's got it on looks, the Yammie has it beat in the engine.
Nice review guys, I vote the triple it is more fun to drive, this BMW when I get older......ride carefully, cheers
"A sore wrist after 10 minutes or so." Man, haven't you been a teenager once?😂
LuL
🤔👹👿
I didn't get a sore wrist after doing 500km in one day.. 🙄
Great comparison! Giving your opinions and the reasons for those, I can make up my own mind, what's important for me and what is not. Especially coming from two directions, sporting and touring, makes this really interesting. And fun, btw 😎
10:25 You see clearly here how you're not sitting on the right spot. Yamaha made the seat weirdly long and in a shape that makes you naturally sitt on the front part of the seat, while the seat is much more comfortable in the back. I have the same issue with my 2019 MT-09. Considering the Tracer 900 GT costs the same as the base model of the BMW, i'd say you'd be well of if you buy the comfort seat. You have full power in B-Mode by the way. You just need to twist the throttle more then on STD or A-Mode.
Tracer GT has the comfort seat as standard in some cuntries.....they are Gel seats and absolute junk, i purchased the standard seat which is much better.
You don't get full power in B mode. I've edited the throttle maps on mine so could see what the throttle is doing. In B mode, fully turning the throttle only gives you around 80% actual throttle.
@@noggintube No, since the 2018-models the B-Mode delivers full power. This was changed to the previous models.
So for a bike from 2015 (had an update in 2018) compared to a bike from 2020, i think the Tracer gets good points from you guys. I say: very well done Yamaha.
Is it just me or does the engine on the BMW sound very harsh compared to the Yamaha .Personally I don't like engines that sound like a load of spanners rattling around in a drum. I do think the BMW looks nicer though. Yamaha engine in the BMW would be perfect I think.
Dry sump buddy
Sounds like most of your issues with the Tracer were addressed with the 2021 model. I would be interested in a comparison of the 2021 models of these bikes to the comparable Triumph.
What are the issues with the older model?
I ride Tracer 700 and am desiring to upgrade to Tracer 900 GT. Took it for a test, did around 80km on it and was laughing all the time so much that almost fell of the bike a few times - it is such a joy to ride. That triple roar and furts and crackles on the overrun are hilarious and savage acceleration is soooo addictive. Another thing, at least with my Tracer and my ex Nmax and now Xmax300 (yes, I do like my BLUCRU) not one single issue so far. Yamaha all the way baby. I have to give to BMW one thing, it is much better looking from the front than Tracer 900, even my Tracer 700 is better looking than it's bigger brother. Front indicator location is diabolical, looks like an after thought, why on earth they couldn't place them like on Tracer 700 is a mystery. But once on it and fire up the beast all is forgotten, just you, the machine and the breeze - EPIC.
Great comparison and surprising result 🤔
Could you please do another comparison:
BMW F900XR vs Honda VFR800X Crossrunner
might be also interesting
Test rode Tracer. The XR was not out when I tried the Yamaha.
Although the Tracer is quite an ok bike, the fuelling is horrible. That along with modest suspension tires and brakes as most have noted.
I went for a 2019 S1000XR instead in the end.
If the 900XR is similar in some respects to the 1kXR, the fuelling should be better than on the Tracer but not ideal. Still went for a remap.
Also Gear shift assist pro is not great imo. Solved it with the same Brentuning map.
Tracer does not have cornering ABS also. And BMW electronics are generally much more seamless, overall just they just do the job better.
If your budget is around the price point of these two bikes, personally would go with the Yamaha.
If you have a bit more money to play with, S1000XR :)
Good comparison guys! Would be Great to see comparison new vs used
as with most bikes, used has less life left in it......
Very good video! Comprehensive opinions on what you liked and disliked for each bike. Listening to your comments, I would probably go for the BMW, but would have to have the sidecases. I also need good protection from the wind and rain,, where I live we receive frequent hail storms in the summer. My last bike was a Harley Davidson FXDX-T (Super Glide T-Sport) and very much loved riding it. It's getting harder to find a good sport touring motorcycle that doesn't look like a sport bike with a little tiny wind screen. I keep looking. Thanks for the great reviews.
Someone is a little bit BMW biased me thinks.
Probably got paid more by BMW 😅
You are not alone. These guys are the same guys that pit BMW's S1000RR against panigale v4r and actually tried to make the v4r sound like ordinary bike.
Bias is normal in all of us, it's very hard to filter it out.
Unconscious biase is the worst.
Great shots of the bikes. and great comparison.Thanks.
Absolutely love my Tracer. It’s perfect. BUT, I had to add Ohlins suspension, full GPR exhaust, ECU remapping and more...
You had to?
I only bought Öhlins, front and rear and it's just perfect I love it.
specialized500 that’s what I told my wife at least.
@@specialized500 I too am a Tracer 900 GT owner and will back up what @beanburnham01 says. If you want to push the Tracer on a backroad, the stock suspension is harsh and the throttle response is horrible. A stock Tracer is never truly planted and stable in the corner. After a flash and Ohlins it handles much better and FINALLY stays on the intended line.
You can mod just about any vehicle to improve performance in desired areas....that doest take away from the fact that it was a great vehicle in it's intended role from the get-go
I like your reviews and your English is really good! 🙂👍🏻
Thank you! 😃
Just the service costs make the difference and also the assurance costs make the difference for the Yamaha GT and the Gas tank capacity is better on the Yamaha GT . but I prefer the look of the BMW
thank you so much guys for such a great review and summary !! great job. All the best from Poland.
The essence of riding a motorcycle is to enjoy riding on 2 wheels. If I want all the bells and whistles BMW has to offer on their bikes I go by car.
Fantastic review, you guys have a great on camera rapport!
Thanks so much!
If you seek Reliability you choose Yamaha.
If you want to impress people you don't care about you choose BMW
The BMW costs alot more than the Tracer GT, especially if you add up all the extras Yamaha includes with the GT. Yamaha also wins on reliability. And oh man that 3-cylinder Tracer engine!! The pull is unreal!! Trust me, GT owner here, you gonna love it!! XD
Love the reviews! Keep up the good work guys!
Thanks! Will do!
Great vid guys!
From your opinion, whic is better for beginner rider?
Very enjoyable detailed comparison and review. Thank you.
Edge: BMW. 1. Safety: lean sensitive abs. Too many beautiful curvy (sometimes wet) roads. 2. Off - road ability. Too many beautiful vineyards, waterfalls and lakes to explore. The big negative (F900xr) is its fuel capacity 15.5l. Safe travels 🏍️✌️🏍️
That triple is a beast
I can belive I would say that but Yamaha looks better. Grettings from Vstrom 1000 XT rider.
Where you ride is very beautiful as well. Must be enjoyable!
Great review guy's
Hi guys, love your reviews. I have a quick question. I use to ride and stop in 2000. I want to re start and I am considering f 900 xr, I guess I will be a beginner again. Do you recommend this bike?
Several others have positive comments about the Yamaha here but I test rode the latest version of it and I thought it was very refined and capable, until I took it on the highway. I found it was very buzzy in the grips, which surprised me since I've read nothing bad about the bike. I've since seen others reviews that also said it has vibration in the handlebars so I don't think it was just the tester I rode. I have a BMW now and although I like it I can't recommend them. The cost of the parts is ridiculous and their reliability is certain questionable. If Yamaha ever brings the Tracer 700 to the USA I am very interested in that.
You guys do a great job. Keep it up!
Tracer for me any day...Where is the ass of the BMW?
Always when you buy a BMW and a Ducati you pay more money just for the badge..
what leather jackets are you guys wearing? im quite a fan of the all black one.
A little tweak with the suspension could have cured the hard feel. My MT09SP came on hard setting when I bought it new and it was unrideable on normal roads. Putting it in the soft setting as illustrated on the bike manual it was completely transformed. So plush and comfy. My friends riding the tracer as you are reviewing had the same experience. These things should be tested as well. Maybe you would need a longer time with the bikes to do that. If settings are there they should be put into consideration as they really do change a bike.
I ride aggressive so had to increase the front preload to 11mm and gave it more compression and rebound. 180kph all day long
How would you compare these bikes with the Multistrada 950S?
Great review
Get a low mileage, used MV Agusta Turismo Veloce instead. More power, more comfort, more features, more tech, better build & components, faster, sportier, lighter, bigger tank, fitted luggage and better value. Easy to find one with less than 10k miles for less than £10k or Euros. Most will have glitches sorted already. All you need is an MV dealer if you can find one and bravery. :)
Thanks guys.The XR appeals to me.
Compared to the Tracer, the XR looks a lot more nimble and the headlights and electronics are phenomenal!
The Tracer is sportier but I prefer 2-cylinder engines for the sound and characteristic.
For ME the XR is the obvious winner. Tracer owners will disagree of course.
Yes, I ride Tracer 700 which is Twin CP2 and sounds great but CP3 Tripple on Tracer 900 is in another league of glorious sounds.
When can we get the ultimate review and comparison between he BMW F900 XR, Ducati Multistrada 950 and Triumph Tiger 900? Mainly for commuting and touring.
Excellent review guys! You are great!
Thanks so much!
GREAR VIDEO GUYS !!!
good job guys!!
I just bought the Tracer 900 GT and pick it up tomorrow . Great review from 2 Euro Biking Snobs !!! Lol ... jk . I didn’t even try the bmw for comparison due to the price difference here in Canada . Way more bang for your buck with Yamaha . Also I’ve never had any reliability issues what so ever with any previous Yamaha products including their snowmobiles
I had the Tracer for two years you won't be disappointed the more you ride it the better it gets. Dial-in the front suspension it makes a big difference & changes the stock tires straight away for Rosso or Battlax T31
it was like riding on rails with the Bridgestone's.
Frank Stocker thanks for the tire tips :)
Michelin Road 5 on my 2019 Tracer 900 GT. Fantastic grip in the rain.
Yamaha for the win!
The throttles not snatchy, it's instantly responds. The cp3 engine spins up so quick and with fly by wire there's no lag. Stick it in b mode for a while if you've just got the bike, it softens the response.
No, it is snatchy. It is possible to make a high power, responsive engine that also enjoys smooth throttle response. See a KTM 1290, smooth is ALWAYS faster.
Children of Tarmac Fair enough. I guess I should say I don't find mine snatchy. Earlier 2015/16 models yes. Glad KTM have sorted this, they used to be the worst. 1290 is a hellava bike, too much for me though, scary fast.
I think I would prefer the “sporty one”, the Yamaha. I already have a touring bike. If I’m in the market anytime soon, it will be for a sportier bike.
Guys Compare/ Review the new TIGER 900 Rally Pro !
Those mirrors are terrible on the BMW lol. Should be black, hands down. I thought the Tracer 900 GT came with auto blipper, big shame it does not. BMW seems to make more sense if buying new. I'd rather buy a 2016 Tracer 900 for $6000 USD and put auto blipper/quick shifter/ecu for $600 myself and maybe a seat for $300. So for $7000 or less you have a killer package.
Those mirrors are not standard. They are made of aluminum, come from gs package and are rather pricey. Standard ones are black.
@@jacekmicka5183 Yes sir!
Great video, 👍🏻
Those prices are crazy! In Turkey similar spec bmw costs nearly twice the tracer. We should all buy bikes from RO ;)
BMW looks fresh and modern, Tracer looks like it was designed in the 90s
Yamaha Tracer 900 GT for the triple engine,reliability,cost of ownership,durability,and aesthetic appeal.Easy win!🏁
Great review guys, thank you! Agree with the BMW mirrors!
And at the end of the ride, there is the price difference and the standard features on the Yamaha that you have to pay extra for on the BMW correct? e.g. centre stand, heated grips, panniers?
No lockdown in Romania? Good test
The perfect comparison
Yamaha 900GT user here👍
YAMAHA!!
Yamaha wins hands down
...I haven't even watched the video yet 😁
The one dude is so far up BMW' s butt, every review he's all about BMW. How about doing an honest fair review especially the price point and included features. BMW is a beautiful bike but I think Yamaha knocked this one out of the park!
Will you guys be comparing the S1000 XR vs F900 XR?
Not in our plan, but.. who knows..
I have the 2019 Tracer 900 GT. Yes the seat sucks. But there is a good simple fix. Seat Concepts. Com has a kit that completely transformers the bike. Huge improvement! So don't let that impact your decision.
The bmw looks fantastic
Made in China vs. Made in Japan. The choice is clear to me. Bought the Tracer, upgraded suspensions, tires and brakes. Flashed the ECU. Now it is a great sport touring bike!
Yup. That's basically what it needs out of the box. ECU flash especially, factory fuelling is horrible.
Thats weird
My XR was made in Germany.
@@sv7017 It is assembled in Germany, but the motor is made in China.
@@SiriKaktiki Im happy with the "but"
The engine works flawless
@@sv7017 Glad to hear it. How long have you had the bike? I am seriously interested, planning to buy a new bike in the spring. The XR seams a bit top heavy, what do you think? Could you share your experience?
BMW vs Triumph Tiger 900 gt pro?
spot on. this is the comparison that I'd want to see, primarily to get a feel for the ride quality disparity between the F900XR and the Tiger 900 GT Pro. Which one is better?
Just got the news that we'll have a Tiger Rally to test. So not sure about the GT Pro..
@@DriveMagRiders cool, will look forward to it. however, the Tiger GT Pro is the relevant competitor to the F900XR and the Tracer 900, as it gets a road focused suspension setup. Buyers going for this segment may not be interested in Rally Pro. Kindly request you to check if you guys could get hold of a GT Pro and try out how the electronic rear suspension feels from a comfort/sport perspective (which is the USP of that bike - to be able to adjust comfort/sport settings). Thanks a lot, and appreciate the content on your channel.
@@GreenHairyYoda We'll do our best. Unfortunately, we cannot always get what we want for a review. The motorcycle business in our country is not that big, so there are some limitations in test-ride availability
@@DriveMagRiders appreciate it guys, thanks!
Does the Yamaha 900 Tracer GT has a keyless option?
Hi guys, Nice review but what about the yam with REAL tyres ?
Hi guys, I like your reviews, but please take some feedback as well, when you are putting in comparison touring bikes, touring enduros or touring sport bikes, it will be interesting how these models are carrying the luggage, eg. side bags that comes with the bike and how bike behaves with the passenger behind. Thanks!
Who is the manufacturer / suppliers of the luggage rack, wich is installed on thr "T-Racer"?
Good comparison and video 👍 what crash bar attached on tracer in the video ?
It's a SW Motech
I have the Givi crash bar
The Arai helmet looks really nice. Which model is it?
Chaser X
How does tracer compare to the 1000xr?
Surprised to hear the Tracer seat is uncomfortable while BMW seat is comfortable, because other reviewers criticize the BMW seat for being uncomfortable.
Absolutely right. I did a test ride on the F900XR and its seat is terrible uncomfortable for a tourer. It is quite hard, that is okay, but the shape was surely not made for human anatomy.
The Tracer seat is terribly sloped and constantly smashes your balls into the tank. It is truly a terrible shape.
Seat Concepts. Com fixed my Tracer 900GT. Huge improvement
@@childrenoftarmac3710 I drove a Tracer today and I totally agree with that comment. Awful seat. I did also drive an 900XR today and the seat was perfect!
What would you want an engine made in Japan or one made in China? Yamaha hands-down winner!
fwg1961 oh boy if this is your criteria 🤭
@@oliviermissal8739 However, reliability wise Yamaha is just a million times better than BMW. Do not let me start how freaking expensive the repair costs with BMW bikes can get. I see the BMW in front when it comes to character, but regarding the overall value the Yamaha is just hard to beat in my opinion.
@@oliviermissal8739 It's a very important selling point for almost anyone with at least half a brain. Imagine moto guzzi or ducati made in china 😅
Im not anti-BMW, after all, Ive got one and I love it BUT they are a bit fragile and not as reliable as Japanese bikes. As long as you know that and factor it in when you buy then it's all good. I don't think these guys are biased towards BMW. BMW make great bikes but they come at a cost that is not reflected in their reliability. Luckily, their warranty is excellent.
F900XR is poorly made. Absolutely without front suspension adjustment, Chinese engine, unstable foot pegs. Weighs more than a Tracer and it has less fuel capacity. I think we know the winner...
XR of course😉
And that windscreen adjuster spring :)
Bmw 3 year warranty
@@stanparton1735 The same as Yamaha.
@@stanparton1735 And you are going to need it. With Yami, warranty is not even required.
Yamaha’s engine is amazing, but in the other points it is miles away back from the BMW.
Very good test!!!
Exactly
Only little bit, not miles away.