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Head to head

Zero DSR/X vs BMW R 1300 GS

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The Zero DSR/X and BMW R 1300 GS are among the most cross-shopped adventure bikes of 2026. The BMW R 1300 GS undercuts the Zero DSR/X by about $5,400, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the BMW R 1300 GS leads on power with 145 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

Zero DSR/X
7.8

Zero

Zero DSR/X
BMW R 1300 GS
Our pick
9.3

BMW

BMW R 1300 GS

The verdict

The BMW R 1300 GS edges it overall at 9.3/10, but the Zero DSR/X wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Zero DSR/X

100 hp.

Most exciting

BMW R 1300 GS

145 hp and 0.61 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

BMW R 1300 GS

Our 9.3/10 at $18,895, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

BMW R 1300 GS

237 kg with an 850 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

BMW R 1300 GS

Our top score in this matchup at 9.3/10.

Price & rating
Price$24,295$18,895
KickTheStand score7.8 / 109.3 / 10
Performance
EngineElectric1300cc twin
Power100 hp145 hp
Torque229 Nm149 Nm
Power-to-weight0.40 hp/kg0.61 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspensionn/aTelelever (EVO)
Rear suspensionn/aEVO Paralever monoshock
Front brakesn/aDual 310mm discs, radial 4-piston
Rear brakesn/aSingle 285mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight247 kg237 kg
Seat height832 mm850 mm
Fuel capacityn/a19 L
Suitability
ClassAdventureAdventure
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best foradventure, commutingadventure, touring

Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.

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Zero DSR/X vs BMW R 1300 GS: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Zero DSR/X or the BMW R 1300 GS?

The BMW R 1300 GS makes the most power at 145 hp and 149 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Zero DSR/X or the BMW R 1300 GS?

The BMW R 1300 GS is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $18,895.

Which is lighter, the Zero DSR/X or the BMW R 1300 GS?

The BMW R 1300 GS is the lightest at 237 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the Zero DSR/X or the BMW R 1300 GS?

For a new rider we'd point to the Zero DSR/X: 100 hp and 247 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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